NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Student Activities Building a Sense of Belonging at UConn’s Regional Campuses

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    To watch Aylanie Bonilla in action as a UConn Waterbury student ambassador, it’s easy to imagine she’s always been the sociable go-getter who leads campus tours, meets with high schoolers, and participates in multiple clubs.

    But it’s those very activities she credits with giving her a sense of belonging at UConn, where the Storrs campus felt so large to her in her first semester that she transferred to her hometown campus in Waterbury.

    Like thousands of other students at UConn’s four regional campuses, Bonilla ’26 (CLAS) found her voice and her community through student clubs, an on-campus learning community, and other extracurricular activities.

    She jokes that she’s not sure many of her high school teachers would even remember her name since she was so shy and barely spoke up in class. They’d certainly be surprised now to see her comfortably chatting with strangers, joining clubs, and serving as a program assistant for the Walkbury community initiative.

    “When I became an orientation leader on campus, I just started talking, and I haven’t really stopped,” says Bonilla ’26 (CLAS). “It was really easy to get involved here and to make friends in the clubs and the classes. The feeling is like being part of a big family.”

    UConn Avery Point Women’s Basketball team practicing at UConn Avery Point. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo)

    Overall, about 5,100 of UConn’s estimated 19,800 undergraduates count one of those locations as their home campus.

    With the vast majority of all regional campus students being Connecticut natives, those locations offer the benefits of a UConn education with the convenience of being in communities where students can live, work, and socialize.

    Like the flagship Storrs campus, the campuses in Avery Point, Hartford, Stamford, and Waterbury each have student government groups, academic and social clubs, and a range of formal and informal activities.

    Regional campus students can also participate in many of the clubs based at Storrs, including having local versions at their own locations. The events are tailored to the unique goals and experiences shared by regional campus students, many of whom balance their classes and clubs with jobs, family obligations, and community activities.

    “It is widely known from student development research, along with the experience of our own students, that engagement in clubs and organizations has dramatic and positive impact on a student’s experience. They also help UConn to attract increasing numbers of top students to our campuses,” says Nathan Fuerst, UConn’s vice president for student life and enrollment.

    Having robust campus activities also helps UConn retain and continue to improve its strong retention and graduation rates as students meet peers, mentors, and others to whom they can turn for help if they’re facing obstacles.

    UConn has prioritized a commitment to expanding its regional campus offerings as part of its Strategic Plan, building on each location’s strengths to make them destinations for students interested in specific majors or programs.

    The clubs are a perfect complement to that work, and part of a wider network of services that also include more advising support and expanded on-site Student Health & Wellness offerings such as nurse navigators, mental health clinical care case workers, and health promotion programs.

    Students playing a game of chess at UConn Hartford. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo)

    In addition to the academic and social clubs, each regional campus offers library and research resources, small courses with experienced faculty, and programs to help students engage with the communities in which the campuses are located.

    Each campus offers clubs in which students connect with each other through common cultural backgrounds, volunteer activities, religious affiliations, and other attributes. The clubs also build on the academic, social, and community ties unique to each regional campus.

    At UConn Avery Point, for instance, clubs for sailing and paddling, scuba diving, and marine sciences help students take advantage of the waterfront location and resources – in addition to clubs for learning, relaxation, and cultural connections.

    UConn Hartford’s location in Connecticut’s capital city provides an ideal setting for clubs helping students advance their aspirations in business, social work, healthcare and other professions, while also offering fun opportunities to connect through gaming, dance, and other pursuits.

    At the Stamford campus, students participate in a variety of political, cultural, and professional clubs that take advantage of its curriculum and location, and they can also have some fun in groups for debating, K-pop music, sports, and other activities.

    Bonilla, the UConn Waterbury student, has been active in the K-pop group on that campus, where students participate in clubs that range from a business society focused on networking and professional development to ping pong and improv drama.

    The campuses also provide many informal opportunities for students to connect, be it through casual slime-making sessions or building Chipotle-style burrito bowls – recent activities at UConn Waterbury that drew scores of students, including a line that stretched down the hallway for the burrito bowls.

    Students celebrate the opening of the new Center for Academic Success and Engagement (CASE) at UConn Stamford (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo)

    Bonilla is transferring to UConn Stamford this fall and expects to remain just as actively involved there, finishing her degree in communications and looking forward to finding the same sense of community that she discovered in Waterbury.

    “I’m excited to be in a new area and meet new people, and to look for an internship in my field,” she says. “I know it’s a bigger campus than Waterbury, but I also feel like I have a good start and it’ll be fun to get really involved there like I’ve been here.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: From UConn to the White House: A Conversation with Anita McBride ’81 (CLAS)

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Anita McBride ’81 (CLAS) has spent decades working alongside some of the most influential women in American government: the first ladies who shaped national conversations both in the spotlight and behind the scenes.

    This spring, McBride returned to UConn to share what she’s learned with students in the College’s Women’s Leadership Collective and First-Generation Mentorship Program, offering candid reflections on leadership, resilience, and public service.

    “Anita McBride’s career reflects the many directions a UConn education can take you,” says Ofer Harel, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. “Her visit gave students a valuable opportunity to hear how mentorship and public service have shaped her path — and how they might shape their own.”

    A veteran of three presidential administrations, McBride held senior roles under Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and George W. Bush. As chief of staff to First Lady Laura Bush, she directed initiatives in global health, education, literacy, women’s empowerment, and historic preservation, and led diplomatic travel to 67 countries.

    Today, she serves as executive-in-residence at American University’s Center for Congressional and Presidential Studies, where she leads the First Ladies Initiative. She is also a founding member of the First Ladies Association for Research and Education and sits on the board of the White House Historical Association.

    McBride is the co-author of the first-ever textbook on first ladies, “U.S. First Ladies: Making History and Leaving Legacies”; its public-market adaptation, “Remember the First Ladies: The Legacies of America’s History-Making Women”; and a recent children’s book she co-wrote with her daughter, “First Ladies Make History.”

    “Anita’s keynote brought lived experience, insight, and a sense of purpose that resonated with everyone in the room,” says Jessica Alexander, associate director of alumni relations for CLAS. “Our mentorship programs create meaningful connections between students and alumni.”

    UConn Today caught up with McBride to discuss her path from UConn to the White House, and what she’s learned from a career at the highest levels of American government.

    What advice do you have for first-generation students navigating college life and what comes after?

    There is no one path — It’s constantly changing and moving. You need to be open to changes.

    I came to UConn knowing exactly what I wanted to do. I was pre-med — until I failed. It was the first time I’d been hit with failure. I went to meet with an advisor, and while I was there, I saw a sign for a new study abroad program in Italy. I grew up in an Italian immigrant household, so I figured this might be a way for me to reset my academic path and also see where my family came from. I applied and was accepted.

    It was the most transformative experience of my life on so many levels. I just gained so much confidence. I’m a big believer in fate, so walking into that building that day and seeing that sign, something about it felt so familiar.

    It’s scary to make a real pivot like that — and it wasn’t the last one I’ve made. When you go into politics, you never know what’s coming from one day to the next. The person you work for can win or lose. You’re in, you’re out. There’s a lot to navigate. What got me through all those changes was the belief that there’s always a new opportunity.

    How did UConn prepare you for success?

    UConn helped me navigate some turns, pivots, and challenges. It was a formative time for me. I built friendships that I still hold close today. It gave me a platform to make choices and changes, and I’ve always appreciated that.

    I’ve never really left my experience at UConn behind — I’ve just carried it with me and have used it in different ways throughout my life.

    You’re considered one of the foremost experts on U.S. first ladies. How did you become interested in this subject?

    I had a front-row seat to history, watching this position up close in three administrations, with Nancy Reagan, Barbara Bush, and Laura Bush. It’s a powerful platform, despite having no official authority, position description, salary, or mention in the Constitution. I really appreciated the impact they could have, and that they’re not required to do anything with the role if they choose not to.

    After I left the White House, the president of American University met with me and expressed interest in developing a program to study the growing influence of first ladies. That conversation led me to launch a conference series on the legacies of first ladies that eventually grew into an established academic initiative at American University. It covers their influence not only on the president, but on the presidency and the White House in general.

    Who, in your opinion, is the most influential first lady?

    Eleanor Roosevelt, bar none. She held the role for 12 years — longer than anyone else — and came in highly educated, politically active, and already in the public eye. She gave paid speeches, had a radio show, and wrote a daily newspaper column before becoming First Lady.

    Her husband didn’t want her to have a public role, but she pushed back. She held press conferences for female reporters, who were excluded from the president’s briefings, and gave them a platform during a critical time for women in journalism.

    She also took controversial stances, especially on civil and human rights. When the Daughters of the American Revolution refused to let [renowned Black opera singer] Marian Anderson perform at Constitution Hall, Roosevelt not only resigned from the group, but she also helped arrange Anderson’s now-historic performance at the Lincoln Memorial.

    These were bold steps. She didn’t get everything right and was controversial, but she set a standard for activism that went unmatched for a long time.

    What inspired you to write a children’s book, and what do you hope young readers will take away from it?

    The children’s book grew out of my academic work. I initially set out to fill a gap in the literature with a textbook, highlighting the contributions of first ladies — often unsung and underappreciated.

    Turning it into a children’s book was an exciting new challenge, especially because I did it with my daughter, who is studying to be an elementary school teacher. She had her own front-row seat to history — watching me work and having some exposure to the White House. Together, we adapted the stories from my book for children and worked with an illustrator. I brought the content, and she helped shape it for a young audience.

    For me, this book is about civic education. If we want people to truly understand and care about our history, we have to start at an earlier age. As divided as we are right now, I still believe this is one of the best systems of government — and it’s up to all of us to be part of it.

    You’ve served several presidential administrations. What’s one thing that sticks with you about that experience?

    I’ve met a lot of people in politics with different views. But one of the most lasting lessons I learned came from Laura Bush, the First Lady to former President George W. Bush, who served from 2001 to 2009 during a very turbulent time. Those eight years included two wars, the Sept. 11 attacks, Hurricane Katrina, and the economic collapse. Her husband faced a lot of criticism, and I’d often ask her how she handled it.

    She never took the political bait. She kept things calm and steady, no matter the pressure. If she was disappointed, you could tell — but she expressed it with quiet resolve, she used her voice but didn’t raise her voice.

    What she taught me was this: In public service, you can’t take criticism personally. She would say, “I know who George is. We know who we are as a family. That’s what gets us through.” That mindset has stayed with me. In politics, you have to realize that not everyone will agree with you.

    It’s a challenging time, both economically and politically. What advice do you have for students on how to succeed through the challenges?

    Be respectful of other people’s opinions. Try and not respond in a way that’s adversarial, even if that’s what you see all around you. You don’t have to be that person.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Imagine Shakespeare in Front of a PS4 – Probably Not, But the Bard Has Influenced Gaming

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Even if William Shakespeare had made it to his 461st birthday today, it’s unlikely the famed playwright would have enjoyed a game of pin the tail on the donkey to celebrate.

    Born April 23, 1564, and died the same day 52 years later, Shakespeare would have preferred a round of chess or game of cards, maybe even a little (gasp!) gambling, to mark another year around the sun.

    Those were the games played in the Middle Ages, not the kids’ game, which was invented in the late 1800s and involves a blindfold and picture of an ass, though Shakespeare may have found amusement in the premise.

    Julia Wold ’25 Ph.D. guesses that Shakespeare would have been fascinated by modern advances in how we play, from rudimentary party games to the $185 billion global video game industry in which players have control over the story in just a flick of a joystick or press of a button.

    “As an artist who became more experimental as he got older, I think he would find the possibilities of video games as an art form really interesting and would probably enjoy the interactivity and the opportunity to try out different decisions and see what happens,” Wold says. “He strikes me as someone who was very interested in experimenting with new forms of entertainment.”

    For the last year, Wold, a graduating English scholar, has been a fellow at the UConn Humanities Institute, polishing her dissertation, “Adapting Choice: Shakespeare, Video Games, and Early Modern Thought,” a subject that she says brought her joy on even the hardest of days in completing the mechanics of research.

    “I wasn’t expecting to write a dissertation about video games, but then the game ‘Elsinore‘ came out and in it you play as the character Ophelia from ‘Hamlet,’ and I found it interesting to consider what changes were being made to the text to give Ophelia power and agency,” she says. “Then, I realized I wanted to look at what in Shakespeare’s plays is reflective of this culture of games and play and what is revealed about that culture when you adapt one of those plays into a video game.”

    To Game, or Not to Game

    To be clear, there were no video games in Shakespeare’s times, but, Wold says, games and game playing were part of everyday life and would have been something in which he engaged. Many around him would have played chess or cards, but betting on sports or other activities was commonplace, albeit more taboo.

    Those in the upper class or the nobility would have enjoyed so-called conversational games that could be played without equipment and after dark without the benefit of electricity, games like who-can-contrive-the-best-courting-method-to-nab-a-mate.

    Wold says that’s something seen clearly in Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing” when the couple Beatrice and Benedick trade romantic barbs in a game of social wit, scoring points off one another as they confess their love.

    These kinds of conversational games were popular, in part because in the 1500s people didn’t own as many possessions as they do today – never mind the fact that a plastic Scrabble board just simply hadn’t been invented. Owning equipment to play a sport, like a bow for archery or racket for tennis, would have been a luxury.

    Thus, even a simple guessing game, like guessing the correct casket in “The Merchant of Venice,” would have been considered a game, Wold says. But Shakespeare does give an obvious example of game playing in “The Tempest,” when Prospero teaches Miranda how to play chess.

    “He uses chess to teach her about the world, but he has an agenda. So, chess is used in a way that we’re used to seeing in a lot of TV and movies as a metaphorical language about how we control people and how factions work against each other,” she says.

    See, it started with Shakespeare.

    All the World’s (His) Stage

    Wold says that people in the 16th century also would have considered pantomime or the act of putting on a play a type of game. And that’s why Hamlet staging a play in “Hamlet” would have been considered a type of game and a form of play back then.

    But complex, detailed stage directions aren’t part of Shakespeare’s plays – that’s a more contemporary thing – and his work is easily molded, which means a modern-day director might ask an actor portraying Romeo to idle their time with Candy Crush while waiting for Juliet in a New York studio apartment. And to the viewer it all still makes sense.

    “Not all literature is so easily translated into new forms and new media across time,” Wold says. “Most of Shakespeare can be adapted to pretty much any time and place. There are Japanese ‘MacBeths.’ There are different versions of his plays performed in tribal contexts in Africa. The texts themselves are extremely malleable, and that is a benefit, not a detriment.”

    Similarly, many video games have narratives that change based on game play and user decisions – To be Team Instinct, or not to be, that is the Pokemon Go question.

    Wold points to “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” as a good example of how the structure of daily living, its rules and regulations, break away when a group of people are playing a game.

    “Think of the Lord of Misrule or the idea that you would take someone from lower down and make them a king for a day. A lot of games or game-like behavior is explicitly interested in the breaking down of norms within a safe, contained space,” she explains. “It gives people a safe space to play around with hierarchies without infecting broader society. ‘Midsummer Night’s Dream’ is a great example of that.”

    She notes, “The character Puck, he’s a joker. If we think about the image of the joker card, he very much fits that image.”

    The PlayStation’s the Thing

    Modern video gaming itself has morphed into an art form, going from pixelated cartoon graphics to life-like animation replete with fresh musical compositions and human voiceovers. The user interacts with them, engaging more than just hand-eye coordination.

    Much of that, Wold argues, hearkens to the act of putting on a play and the interactivity between the numerous people involved: actors, directors, costume designers, and so on. Each genre involves many hands and fully engages an audience.

    What’s more, a video game can be played differently with each round as a player elects different paths and makes different decisions; Arthur Morgan most often dies of tuberculosis in Red Dead Redemption 2, but a bullet is another possibility based on choices made along the way.

    So, too, can a theatrical performance change from matinee to evening as actors make subtle changes – let’s say adding or subtracting a wry smile, each time they take the stage.

    “Shakespeare’s influence is everywhere,” Wold says. “If you want to be a culturally media literate person, you need to know Shakespeare. His work is the foundation of a lot of cultural references, allusions, and influences. So many of our linguistics and turns of phrase originated with him.

    “This isn’t something you need to be thinking about 24/7 or accept 100% of the time,” she continues, “but when you want to look for it, you can find his influence. He’s ubiquitous, and a lot of modern gaming is based on this idea of a game space as the way that we understand it from Shakespeare.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Brompton Announces the Launch of Brompton Wellington Square AAA CLO ETF

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — (TSX: BAAA; BAAA.U) Brompton Funds Limited (the “Manager”) is pleased to announce that Brompton Wellington Square AAA CLO ETF (“BAAA”) will commence trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange (the “TSX”) today. A final prospectus dated April 10, 2025 has been filed with the securities regulatory authorities in each province and territory in Canada.

    The investment objectives of BAAA are to provide unitholders with high monthly income and capital preservation through investment in a portfolio of primarily AAA rated collateralized loan obligations (“CLOs”). BAAA seeks to hedge substantially all of its direct exposure to foreign currencies back to the Canadian dollar. However, any exposure that BAAA’s assets allocable to the USD units have to foreign currencies will not be hedged back to the Canadian dollar. BAAA will seek to achieve its investment objectives by investing in a portfolio of CLOs selected by Wellington Square Advisors Inc., the investment sub-advisor to BAAA, generally ranging in credit quality from AAA to BBB, with a minimum of 75% of BAAA’s portfolio invested in AAA rated CLOs. Up to 10% of BAAA’s portfolio may from time to time be tactically invested in CLOs rated less than BBB. All ratings are measured as at the time of investment.

    Wellington Square Advisors Inc. (“Wellington Square”) is a Toronto-based independent investment advisory led by portfolio managers Jeff Sujitno and Amar Dhanoya. Wellington Square has invested in CLOs for over 10 years with certain staff having specialized expertise gained from working for CLO managers.

    The Manager has assigned BAAA a risk rating of “low”. For further details, please refer to BAAA’s ETF Facts document available on www.sedarplus.ca or on BAAA’s home page at www.bromptongroup.com.

    About Brompton Funds
    Founded in 2000, Brompton is an experienced investment fund manager with income and growth focused investment solutions including exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and other TSX traded investment funds. For further information, please contact your investment advisor, call Brompton’s investor relations line at 416-642-6000 (toll-free at 1-866-642-6001), email info@bromptongroup.com or visit our website at www.bromptongroup.com.

    Commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with exchange-traded fund investments.  Please read the prospectus before investing. Exchange-traded funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated.

    Certain statements contained in this news release constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information may relate to matters disclosed in this press release and to other matters identified in public filings relating to the fund, to the future outlook of the fund and anticipated events or results and may include statements regarding the future financial performance of the fund. In some cases, forward-looking information can be identified by terms such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “expect”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “intend”, “estimate”, “predict”, “potential”, “continue” or other similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts. Actual results may vary from such forward-looking information. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and we assume no obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Krishnamoorthi Meets with Chicagoland Community College Leaders to Discuss Workforce Development for Critical Sectors Across Illinois

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

    CHICAGO – Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) brought together leaders, educators, and students from eight Chicagoland community colleges at Harry S Truman College for a roundtable discussion on expanding access to career and technical education (CTE) programs that are vital to Illinois’ economic future. The conversation followed a tour of Truman’s Child Development Laboratory School, a prime example of how community colleges are training students for in-demand careers in early education. The roundtable focused on advancing CTE pathways in sectors like healthcare, childcare, and the skilled trades—fields facing urgent workforce shortages across the state.

    “Every Illinoisan deserves the opportunity to work a good-paying job where you don’t need a four-year degree to earn a living wage. At the same time, our state needs high-quality health care professionals, child care workers, and skilled labor workers to grow our economy,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. “Career and technical education programs at community colleges provide us with a unique opportunity to make both those happen at the same time. By investing in high-quality CTE programs at colleges from across the Chicago area now, we can ensure all Illinoisans have the chance to succeed while also modernizing our workforce to keep Illinois at the forefront of an ever-changing economy.”

    Congressman Krishnamoorthi has long championed CTE in Congress, co-authoring the bipartisan Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act that increased federal funding to CTE programs by $1.3 billion annually to meet today’s workforce demands. At the roundtable, he reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that federal policy keeps pace with the evolving needs of students, employers, and educators.

    College leaders underscored the importance of stable federal funding, expanded apprenticeships, and industry-aligned curricula to strengthen pipelines into high-growth career fields. They also highlighted the critical role of wraparound services that help students overcome barriers to completing their education and entering the workforce.

    Participants included leaders from Harry S Truman College, Harper College, Elgin Community College, Joliet Junior College, Malcolm X College, Oakton College, Wilbur Wright College, Olive-Harvey College, and the Illinois Community College Trustees Association.

    The roundtable discussion was the latest in a series of conversations Congressman Krishnamoorthi has initiated across the state to ensure Illinois students have the skills and support needed to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. Congressman Krishnamoorthi has held similar events in cities such as East St. Louis, Rock Island, and the Quad Cities in recent months.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The Costs of Responding to Tropical Storm Helene in North Carolina

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

    strong>HICKORY, N.C. – Debris removal. Restoration of utilities. Emergency repairs to public bridges and water systems. Overtime costs for emergency personnel. Evacuation support. Transportation of supplies for the public.
    These are some of the costs the state of North Carolina and communities in Western North Carolina experienced for emergency response to Tropical Storm Helene. FEMA is reimbursing most of those costs through its Public Assistance Program. More than 2,300 projects have been submitted to Public Assistance and are in process.
    “The state and FEMA continue to work together to provide the much-needed assistance to those communities impacted by Tropical Storm Helene and to help them with the costs associated with responding to this unprecedented storm,” said North Carolina Emergency Management Director Will Ray. “We recognize there is a long road ahead but through a whole of community approach we will get there.”
    Since January, here are some of the FEMA grants provided to the state and communities:
    French Broad Electric Membership Corporation: $8,694,790 for costs of restoring emergency power. The funding reimburses the utility for work in Buncombe, Haywood, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell and Yancey counties. Emergency work included restoration of gauges, poles, transformers, conductor wires, crossarms and associated hardware as well as removal of debris affecting the power system.
    North Carolina Highway Patrol: $3,352,651 for costs for emergency protective measures, including personnel overtime, evacuations, water rescues, transportation of supplies for the public, placement of barricades, and other activities.
    North Carolina Department of Transportation: $33 million for emergency replacement of public bridges in Alleghany, Ashe, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Haywood, Henderson, McDowell, Mitchell, Yancey and Watauga counties. 
    Town of Spruce Pine: $2,609,254 for permanent repairs to the wastewater treatment plant.
    Town of Burnsville: $1,160,571 for emergency protective measures, including establishment of a temporary raw water intake system.
    Madison County: $1,636,697 for emergency protective measures, including placement of six modular units at the Sprinkle Shelton Building and the Madison County Courthouse.
    Town of Spruce Pine: $1,845,849 for permanent repairs at the Riverside Park pedestrian bridge.
    Rutherford County: $7,643,529 for debris removal.
    Cleveland County: $3,854,825 for debris removal.
    Town of Biltmore Forest: $2,022,931 for debris removal.
    North Carolina Emergency Management: $6,709,159 for personnel, contractual support and other support expenses related to Tropical Storm Helene.
    These large projects are among $135 million provided since January. Since the disaster declaration in September, 373 projects have been obligated for $451.8 million.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lt. Gov. Luke – RELEASE – Over 4,000 Meals Raised for Hawaiʻi Foodbank at State Capitol

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    Lt. Gov. Luke – RELEASE – Over 4,000 Meals Raised for Hawaiʻi Foodbank at State Capitol

    Posted on Apr 22, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI
     KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    SYLVIA LUKE
     LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR
    KE KEʻENA O KA HOPE KIAʻĀINA

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    April 22, 2025

    Over 4,000 Meals Raised for Hawaiʻi Foodbank at State Capitol

    Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke Hosts 3rd Annual Food Drive Fest

     

     

    (Video/Photos Courtesy: Office of the Lt. Governor)

    HONOLULU — State employees, including legislators and Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke, came together to collect donations to provide more than 4,000 meals for the Hawaiʻi Foodbank during the 3rd Annual Food Drive Fest, held last week at the State Capitol. The two-day event, held April 16–17, featured local businesses and raised awareness about food insecurity as part of the 26th Annual State Employees’ Food Drive.

    The total includes both nonperishable food items and monetary donations collected by state employees and attendees. State employees represent the largest coalition supporting the Hawaiʻi Foodbank.

    “Mahalo to everyone who showed up, donated, and supported this year’s Food Drive Fest. State employees continue to lead with aloha — always looking out for our neighbors, coworkers, and ʻohana across Hawaiʻi,” said Lt. Gov. Luke. “Together, we’re not just collecting food — we’re helping ensure that families across our state have the support they need.”

    For 26 years, state employees have united annually to support the Hawaiʻi Foodbank through donations and outreach. This year’s State Employees’ Food Drive runs through May 9.

    The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Honolulu also stopped by to donate nonperishable food in support of the cause.

    Anyone can support the Hawaiʻi Foodbank by donating online. Employee donations will count toward their department’s overall total.

    Donations can be made at hawaiifoodbank.org/state. Nonperishable food donations are also being accepted in person at the Lieutenant Governor’s office at the State Capitol (415 S. Beretania St., Fifth Floor).

    Media Contact:

    Shari Nishijima

    Communications Director

    Office of the Lieutenant Governor

    Cell: 808-978-0867

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release – NATIVE TREES CENTER STAGE AT EARTH DAY PLANTING CEREMONY, April 22, 2025

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DLNR News Release – NATIVE TREES CENTER STAGE AT EARTH DAY PLANTING CEREMONY, April 22, 2025

    Posted on Apr 22, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

    DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

    KA ‘OIHANA KUMUWAIWAI ‘ĀINA

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    DAWN CHANG
    CHAIRPERSON

    NATIVE TREES CENTER STAGE AT EARTH DAY PLANTING CEREMONY

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

    April 22, 2025

     

    HONOLULU — The grounds of Washington Place now have additional native vegetation, as Governor Josh Green M.D., First Lady Jaime Kanani Green, and DLNR Chair Dawn Chang joined students from St. Andrew’s School in a community Earth Day planting ceremony.

    ʻŌhiʻa ʻāhihi and koaiʻa — a close relative of koa were chosen because they have historically been part of the landscape at Washington Place. Staff consulted records that were hand-written by Queen Liliuʻokalani describing the trees on the property, which included both koa and ʻōhiʻa.

    In remarks prior to the tree planting, Governor Green said, “These trees gather our water, support our wildlife and make life in Hawaiʻi possible. We are planting these to show support for both our natural environment and for the people of Hawaiʻi.”

    Governor Green noted that many related ideas are being celebrated today.

    • Earth Day — an opportunity to pause and reflect on our connection to ʻāina, to be aware of how our islands support us, and to take action to give support back to these lands.
    • 2025 as the Year of Our Community Forests — our connection to our natural resources extends beyond just a single day in which we aloha the trees of the wao kānaka, where we live, learn and play.
    • Grow Aloha — as part of our love of trees were celebrating this plant adoption campaign where the National Tropical Botanical Garden, Bishop Museum, Maui Nui Botanical Gardens, Molokaʻi Land Trust, and Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden are giving thousands of native plants to people across Hawaiʻi to strengthen our community forests and our connection to them.
    • ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Day — April 25 is the day to celebrate our native ʻōhiʻa trees and learn how we can protect them from Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death disease.

    Planting ʻōhiʻa is particularly important now, as the fungal disease Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death threatens native trees. Planting more ʻōhiʻa and learning how to care for these trees, helps ensure a future for this important species.

    “In addition to the students who joined us today, I want to thank the legislature for passing a resolution this year supporting co-stewardship of community forests in Hawai‘i by pairing community knowledge and expertise with our public land stewards at the DLNR. I literally look forward to seeing the fruits of these labors. My hope is to see community food forests on some of our public lands, where we can grow trees and communities together,” Governor Green added.

    First Lady Jaime Kanani Green spoke of a vision for the future, through the lens of history. “When we plant trees, we plant hope — for the future, for our environment and for each other. Over time these seedlings will root deeply and reshape this space, just as you will shape the future of our communities.

    Today, we carry forward the legacy of Queen Liliʻuokalani who planted many trees on these grounds — with our hands in the ‘āina and our hearts on the generations to come,” she said.

     

    DLNR Chair Dawn Chang reinforced the importance of trees for human health and climate resilience. “These are trees that give us shade, food, and medicine. They provide habitat for native animals. There are certain trees, like the ‘ōhia‘a lehua, that are not just trees but are the foundation of our native forests, guardians of our watersheds and our cultural connections to place.”

    Chang noted that trees are important for climate resilience. In Honolulu alone, street trees capture an estimated 3,340 tons of carbon dioxide annually and save over $600,000 in energy costs. 

    # # #

    RESOURCES

    (All images/video Courtesy: DLNR)

    HD video – Washington Place tree planting (April 22, 2025):

    https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/bfqriel8i1w2qcgqrg62u/Earth-Day-Planting-Ceremony-media-clips-April-22-2025.mov?rlkey=49dwcl7pgjv9nbjr0mco6uv4j&st=2ri45nx2&dl=0

    (Shot sheet attached)

    Photographs – Washington Place tree planting (April 22, 2025):

    https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/xy9e882o87mu2q4mwyh9v/AGhelAuA1nGvRJ7cun2MfXY?rlkey=iu93zmavooq3fuowk1uxre26e&st=t1vzmwfy&dl=0

    Learn more and get involved – 

    Adopt native plants at Grow Aloha events across Hawaiʻi:

    growaloha.org.

    Volunteer and celebrate the Year of Our Community Forests: 

    dlnr.hawaii.gov/trees.

     

    Media Contact: 

    Dan Dennison 

    Communications Director

    Hawai‘i Dept. of Land and Natural Resources 

    808-587-0396 

    [email protected] 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Over 4,000 Meals Raised for Hawaiʻi Foodbank at State Capitol

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    Over 4,000 Meals Raised for Hawaiʻi Foodbank at State Capitol

    Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke Hosts 3rd Annual Food Drive Fest

    Link to Photos
    Link to B-Roll Video

    HONOLULU — State employees, including legislators and Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke, came together to collect donations to provide more than 4,000 meals for the Hawaiʻi Foodbank during the 3rd Annual Food Drive Fest, held last week at the State Capitol. The two-day event, held April 16–17, featured local businesses and raised awareness about food insecurity as part of the 26th Annual State Employees’ Food Drive.

    The total includes both nonperishable food items and monetary donations collected by state employees and attendees. State employees represent the largest coalition supporting the Hawaiʻi Foodbank.

    “Mahalo to everyone who showed up, donated, and supported this year’s Food Drive Fest. State employees continue to lead with aloha — always looking out for our neighbors, coworkers, and ʻohana across Hawaiʻi,” said Lt. Gov. Luke. “Together, we’re not just collecting food — we’re helping ensure that families across our state have the support they need.”

    For 26 years, state employees have united annually to support the Hawaiʻi Foodbank through donations and outreach. This year’s State Employees’ Food Drive runs through May 9.

    The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Honolulu also stopped by to donate nonperishable food in support of the cause.

    Anyone can support the Hawaiʻi Foodbank by donating online. Employee donations will count toward their department’s overall total.

    Donations can be made at hawaiifoodbank.org/state. Nonperishable food donations are also being accepted in person at the Lieutenant Governor’s office at the State Capitol (415 S. Beretania St., Fifth Floor).

    For those facing food insecurity, help is available at hawaiifoodbank.org/help.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces appointments 4.22.25

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 22, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:

    Claire Cullis, of Carmichael, has been appointed Deputy Secretary of Business and Consumer Relations at the California Business, Consumer Services, and Housing Agency. Cullis has been Chief of Staff to the First Partner in the Governor’s Office since 2021. She was Founder of Claire Cullis Consulting, LLC from 2018 to 2021. Cullis was the Executive Director of the Institute for Democracy and Justice from 2018 to 2021. She was the Director of Dignitary and Speaker Engagement at the Global Climate Action Summit for the United Nations Foundation in 2018. Cullis was a Consultant to the Special Olympics for the Austria Winter World Games in 2017. She held multiple positions at the United States Department of the Treasury from 2013 to 2017, including Director of Scheduling, Advance, and Administration, and Associate Director of Scheduling and Advance for the Treasury Secretary. Cullis was an Advance Associate at The White House from 2013 to 2017. She was Deputy Parade Director at the Presidential Inaugural Committee from 2012 to 2013. Cullis was National Advance Staff for Obama for America in 2012. She was a Senior Associate at the Dewey Square Group from 2006 to 2012. She was a Teacher at the Japanese Exchange and Teaching Program from 2005 to 2006. Cullis was National Advance Staff for the John Kerry presidential campaign in 2004. Cullis earned her Master of Business Administration degree from Virginia Tech, and her Bachelor of the Arts degree in International Studies and Studio Art from the University of Iowa. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $195,564. Cullis is a Democrat.

    Sophia Carrillo, of Santa Monica, has been appointed Assistant General Counsel of Enforcement at the California Environmental Protection Agency. Carrillo was an Assistant United States Attorney at the United States Attorney’s Office, Central District of California from 2023 to 2025. She was a Deputy Attorney General at the California Department of Justice from 2019 to 2023. Carrillo was a Judicial Law Clerk at the United States District Court, Eastern District of California from 2018 to 2019. She was an Associate Director of the Mayor’s Office of Talent and Appointments/D.C. Human Resources at the Executive Office of Mayor Muriel Bowser in 2015. Carrillo is a member of the Latino Community Foundation’s Los Angeles Giving Circle. She earned her Juris Doctor degree from Stanford Law School and a Bachelor of the Arts degree in Political Science and Sociology from the University of San Diego. This position does not require Senate confirmation and compensation is $174,000. Carrillo is a Democrat. 

    Iris “Marlene” De La O, of Berkeley, has been appointed Deputy Secretary of Public Policy at the California Environmental Protection Agency. De La O held several positions at Chemonics International from 2021 to 2025, including Senior Partnerships Manager and Director of Climate Change and Resiliency. She was the Director of Resiliency and Acquisitions at the Department of Housing, Preservation, and Development in 2019. De La O was Deputy Director at the California Strategic Growth Council from 2017 to 2018. She was a Consultant at Inter-American Development Bank from 2015 to 2016. De La O was a Manager and Regional Contracts Specialist at Chemonics International from 2012 to 2015. She earned a Master of Public Policy degree in City Planning from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of the Arts degree in Development Studies from the University of California, Berkeley. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and compensation is $175,512. De La O is a Democrat.

    Adam Ebrahim, of Carmichael, has been appointed Chief Deputy Director at the Commission on Teacher Credentialing. Ebrahim has been the Senior Director of Policy and Continuous Improvement at the Commission on Teacher Credentialing since 2024. He was the Principal Consultant at Azimuth Learning Partners from 2016 to 2024. Ebrahim was the Director of Education Strategy at Parsec Education in 2024. He was a Staff Consultant at the California Teachers Association from 2020 to 2024. Ebrahim was the Director of Local Control and Accountability Plan and Continuous Improvement at San Juan Unified School District from 2019 to 2020. He was a Project Director at Californians Dedicated to Education Foundation from 2016 to 2019. Ebrahim was a Staff Consultant at Fresno County Superintendent of Schools from 2015 to 2016. He was a Teacher at Fresno Unified School District from 2010 to 2015. Ebrahim was an Enlisted Soldier and Commissioned Officer at the California Army National Guard from 2007 to 2012. He received his Master of Education degree in United States Education in a Global Context from National University, a Master of Arts degree in International Affairs from Washington University in Saint Louis, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from University of California, Berkeley. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $181,344. Ebrahim is a Democrat.

    Vanessa Ejike, of Cerritos, has been appointed to the State Board of Education. Ejike was a Poll Worker for the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk and an Intern for Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva in the California State Assembly in 2024. She is the National Partnerships Director for the High School Democrats of America, Local Affairs Director for California High School Democrats, Communications Coordinator for the Pacific Coast Coalition of Girl Up USA, Student Representative for the Legislative and Policy Committee at the ABC Unified School District, and Founder and Chair of the Principal’s Advisory Council at Gretchen Whitney High School. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Ejike is not registered to vote. 

    Niki Woodard, of Sacramento, has been appointed Deputy Director of Communications and External Affairs at the California Energy Commission. Woodard has been the Senior Communications Officer at Resources Legacy Fund since 2019. She was the Deputy Assistant Director at the California Department of Water Resources from 2016 to 2019. Woodard was the Communications and Marketing Director at the Center for Climate Protection from 2015 to 2016. She was Founder and Principal of Spiral-PR from 2011 to 2016. Woodard was the Communications Director at Sequoia Riverlands Trust from 2008 to 2011. She was a Research Associate at the Pew Research Center from 2006 to 2008. Woodard earned a Master of the Arts degree in Communications from Georgetown University and a Bachelor of the Arts degrees in Rhetoric and Economics from the University of California, Berkeley. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and compensation is $160,968. Woodard is a Democrat.

    Lee Herrick, of Fresno, has been reappointed California’s Poet Laureate, where he has served since 2022. Herrick has been an English Professor at Fresno City college since 1997 and an Adjunct Professor at the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe since 2012. He was the Poet Laureate of the City of Fresno from 2015 to 2017. Herrick was an Adjunct English Professor at Modesto Junior College from 1995 to 1997. He is the Founder of LitHop and an Advisory Board Member of Terrain.org, Sixteen Rivers Press, and Anacapa review, and a Member of the Association of Writers and Writing Programs. Herrick earned a Master of Arts degree in English, Composition and Rhetoric and a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and American Literature from California State University, Stanislaus. This position requires Senate confirmation, and the California Arts Council provides an annual stipend. Herrick is a Democrat.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Apr 22, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Governor and First Partner marked Earth Day at Chico State University with students from the Center for Regenerative Agriculture and Resilient Systems. CHICO –  Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom celebrated…

    Apr 22, 2025

    News What you need to know: Classes resumed in person at Palisades Charter High School today at a new temporary site in Santa Monica. All eight public schools that were damaged in the fires are now back to learning in person. LOS ANGELES – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom…

    Apr 22, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Cradle-to-Career Data System displays key milestones in students’ experience over time and provides insights about education and career pathways. Sacramento, California – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled a first-of-its-kind…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTOS: Governor Newsom, First Partner Siebel Newsom celebrate Earth Day with next generation of agricultural stewards

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 22, 2025

    What you need to know: The Governor and First Partner marked Earth Day at Chico State University with students from the Center for Regenerative Agriculture and Resilient Systems.

    CHICO –  Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom celebrated Earth Day today at California State University, Chico’s Center for Regenerative Agriculture and Resilient Systems. 

    The event showcased the role of higher education in preparing the next generation of California’s climate and agricultural stewards. The First Partner also highlighted the connection to the California Farm to School initiative, which has provided nearly half of California’s school-age students with school meals prepared using locally-grown ingredients, as well as educational programming about the origin and connection of their food to the sustainability of the planet.

    Innovative programs like the one here at Chico State are building the next generation of leaders — students learning how to farm in ways that protect the planet and build a more sustainable future. This is what climate action looks like — real investments today that will lead to a healthier, more sustainable tomorrow.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    At Chico State, students are learning to be the environmental stewards of tomorrow, and through California Farm to School, we’re sparking that same interest at even earlier ages. By connecting young people across California to the land, their food, and the climate solutions we urgently need, we’re empowering the next generation to lead the way. To all the young people: we need you, we believe in you, and together, we will build a sustainable, resilient future.

    First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Apr 22, 2025

    News What you need to know: Classes resumed in person at Palisades Charter High School today at a new temporary site in Santa Monica. All eight public schools that were damaged in the fires are now back to learning in person. LOS ANGELES – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom…

    Apr 22, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Cradle-to-Career Data System displays key milestones in students’ experience over time and provides insights about education and career pathways. Sacramento, California – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled a first-of-its-kind…

    Apr 21, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring April 21, 2025 as “John Muir Day” in the State of California.The text of the proclamation is below: PROCLAMATIONJohn Muir, a Scottish immigrant, helped blaze a trail for…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom welcomes students, teachers and parents back as Palisades Charter High School is set to resume in person instruction

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 22, 2025

    What you need to know: Classes resumed in person at Palisades Charter High School today at a new temporary site in Santa Monica. All eight public schools that were damaged in the fires are now back to learning in person.

    LOS ANGELES – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom welcomed Palisades Charter High School students back to school as they returned to in-person learning at a new school site – a former Sears location in Santa Monica that has now been converted to house the entire student population of more than 2,400 students at a single campus.

    The school has been engaged in remote learning since the deadly Southern California fires that ignited in January severely damaged their school site in Pacific Palisades.

    “I’m happy to welcome the administrators, educators and students of Palisades Charter High School back to in-person learning. While this home is only temporary until we can get them back to their regular site, the partnership and collaboration between state and local officials to get this new site up and running shows the spirit of our recovery. This is an important step forward for the Palisades community as we rebuild and rise together.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Debris removal at the original Palisades Charter High School was completed last month, and with Palisades High School now returning to in-person instruction, all eight public schools that were damaged by the Eaton and Palisades fire have resumed in person instruction. 

    Supporting schools and getting kids back into the classroom quickly has been a priority for the Administration from the first days after the fires. Previously Governor Newsom signed an executive order to accelerate getting California children back in a classroom, assist schools.

    The Governor also directed that school sites be prioritized in the debris removal process so that rebuilding can start quickly and safely. When state and federal partners launched the structural debris removal process in February the announcement was held at a school site that had already been cleared.

    ###

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Apr 22, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Cradle-to-Career Data System displays key milestones in students’ experience over time and provides insights about education and career pathways. Sacramento, California – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled a first-of-its-kind…

    Apr 21, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring April 21, 2025 as “John Muir Day” in the State of California.The text of the proclamation is below: PROCLAMATIONJohn Muir, a Scottish immigrant, helped blaze a trail for…

    Apr 21, 2025

    News California is the first state in the nation to provide an affordable direct-to-consumer drug onlineWhat you need to know: CalRx® Naloxone is now available directly to individuals at the same affordable price of $24 previously offered to businesses, further…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Canada ahead of the 2025 election: Navigating a complex geopolitical landscape – 23-04-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Following increasing pressure from members of his own party and a period of low opinion poll ratings, Canadian Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau announced his resignation from the leadership of the Liberal Party of Canada on 6 January 2025. Mark Carney, his successor as prime minister of Canada, and new leader of the Liberal Party, has called a snap parliamentary election for 28 April. This year’s election will mark a decade of Liberal Party rule in Canada, a period with significant political, economic and diplomatic developments. In some cases, the administration continued already existing policies; in some others, it diverged significantly. While Canada’s relationship with China and India has grown increasingly tense in recent years, the country has traditionally relied on close partnerships with its Western allies, particularly its southern neighbour, the United States (US). This dynamic has shifted under the second Trump administration, which has started its term in a far more bellicose tone than before. Canada’s next administration will need to navigate a volatile geopolitical environment characterised by the US’s trade war and weakening commitment to its role as a global leader and guarantor of the Pax Americana; China’s increasingly assertive posture as a second superpower; Russia’s renewed ambitions for a greater global role; and the emergence of middle powers and countries from the Global South. This briefing builds on a 2022 EPRS briefing on Canada’s Parliament and other political institutions. While the earlier briefing examines Canada’s federal structure, parliament and levels of governance, the present one focuses more on the political, economic and external relations developments over the past decade, in light of the upcoming election.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Wallet Launches New Stablecoin Yield Product SyrupUSDC at 20% Return

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, a leading Web3 non-custodial wallet, has added a new offering to its Hold2Earn section, allowing users to earn up to 20% APY by holding SyrupUSDC. The move comes amid rising interest in passive income strategies that maintain asset liquidity.

    SyrupUSDC is a yield-accruing stablecoin issued by Maple Finance through its Syrup protocol. The token is designed to provide stable returns while enabling users to retain the ability to move or utilize their funds. The offering is available to Bitget Wallet users from April 23 16:00 to May 7 16:00 (UTC+8), with yields accessible directly through the wallet’s in-app Earn interface.

    Hold2Earn is Bitget Wallet’s passive income platform that focuses on flexible yield products, including liquid staking derivatives and tokenized yield assets. The section currently features products across Ethereum, BNB Chain, and Solana, selected based on protocol audits, liquidity, and user adoption. Unlike traditional staking or centralized yield products, Hold2Earn operates under a self-custody model, with users maintaining full control of their funds.

    “Hold2Earn is part of a broader shift toward onchain yield strategies that balance usability and transparency,” said Alvin Kan, COO of Bitget Wallet. “As users increasingly seek alternatives to locked or custodial yield models, we see an opportunity to offer accessible tools for asset growth directly within the wallet experience.“

    For more information, please visit Bitget Wallet official X.

    About Bitget Wallet
    Bitget Wallet is a non-custodial crypto wallet designed to make crypto simple, secure, and accessible for everyone. With over 60 million users, it brings together a full suite of crypto services, including swaps, market insights, staking, rewards, a DApp browser, and crypto payment solutions. Supporting 130+ blockchains, 20,000+ DApps, and a million tokens, Bitget Wallet enables seamless multi-chain trading across hundreds of DEXs and cross-chain bridges. Backed by a $300+ million user protection fund, it ensures the highest level of security for users’ assets.
    For more information, visit: X | Telegram | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTok | Discord | Facebook
    For media inquiries, contact media.web3@bitget.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/80127284-1f57-41f9-b558-102fdc3ec7ca 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Colombia: Reaffirming Commitment to Peace, Security, & Justice Amid Challenges | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    The Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Colombia, Carlos Ruiz Massieu, today (22 Apr) told the Security Council that “illicit economies are intertwined with conflict in Colombia,” and solving this problem “is necessary for peace to be consolidated.”

    Ruiz Massieu said, “despite the many challenges still present,” Colombia “is a changed country” compared to the years preceding the signing of the 2016 Peace Agreement,” which “brought to an end the largest insurgency in the country which spanned decades.”

    He told the Council that “the provisions of the Agreement on the problem of illicit drugs have the potential to contribute to these solutions. Yet, the success of instruments such as voluntary crop substitution has been limited, including due to a lack of follow-through by the State with development assistance promised to peasants who voluntarily eradicated coca.”

    Ruiz Massieu, who is the Head of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia (UNVIC), said “looking to the future, it is essential to prioritize those processes of dialogue with actors that demonstrate a real desire for peace and that can have tangible results to benefit communities.”

    He said, “no real desire for peace is demonstrated if minors are recruited and leaders are assassinated. There is no real desire for peace if you extort money from communities. You don’t show a real desire for peace, if people are deprived of their freedom.”

    Ruiz Massieu said, “I am convinced that if the Agreement had been implemented more thoroughly in the last eight years, we would not have situations like those experienced in Catatumbo or Cauca today,” and stressed that “there is still time to use the Agreement as a current and necessary instrument to overcome these cases and prevent the repetition of cycles of conflict in Colombia.”

    For her part, Colombia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Laura Camila Sarabia Torres told the Council that “fulfilling the Agreement has not been and will not be easy.”

    Sarabia Torres said, “the implementation of the Agreement was ignored for four years because of selfish political decisions. The consequences are now being experienced; a rural reform that was ignored and that is advancing at a slow pace; a clarification of the truth that was fragmented and that has left victims in the middle.

    She said, “the transformation of the most vulnerable territories wasn’t a priority. Public resources were committed for decades to urban works, while in departments such as Chocó more than half of the population lives without water.”

    The Agreement followed years of negotiations which began at the Havana dialogues between delegates from the National Government, led by President Juan Manuel Santos, and delegates from the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia – People’s Army (FARC-EP), based on their mutual decision to bring the national armed conflict to an end.

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: ICE officers & partners in the nation’s capital arrest Salvadoran national Francisco Reyes-Ramirez

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    ARLINGTON, Va. — ICE officers and partners in the nation’s capital arrested Salvadoran national Francisco Reyes-Ramirez April 17 after the local jurisdiction released him into the community instead of transferring him safely to ICE.

    He was found guilty in absentia Oct. 3, 2022, of driving without a license.
    He was arrested Nov. 1, 2022, for possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.

    Report suspicious criminal activity: 866-DHS-2-ICE

    Visit https://www.ICE.gov/newsroom for the latest info and to subscribe to news updates.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQvsbIbaSI8

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai pays respects to Pope Francis  

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2025-04-23
    President Lai meets US CNAS NextGen fellows
    On the morning of April 23, President Lai Ching-te met with fellows from the Shawn Brimley Next Generation National Security Leaders Program (NextGen) run by the Center for a New American Security (CNAS). In remarks, President Lai thanked the government of the United States for continuing its arms sales to Taiwan over the years, supporting Taiwan’s efforts to enhance its national defense capabilities and jointly maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The president pointed out that we will promote our “Taiwan plus one” policy, that is, new arrangements for Taiwan plus the US, and form a “Taiwan investment in the US team” to expand investment and bring about even closer Taiwan-US trade cooperation, allowing us to reduce the trade deficit and generate development that benefits both sides. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: Ms. Michèle Flournoy, chair of the CNAS Board of Directors, is a good friend of Taiwan, and she has made major contributions to Taiwan-US relations through her long-time efforts on various aspects of our cooperation. I am happy to welcome Chair Flournoy, who is once again leading a NextGen Fellowship delegation to Taiwan. CNAS is a prominent think tank focusing on US national security and defense policy based in Washington, DC. Its NextGen Fellowship has fostered talented individuals in the fields of national security and foreign affairs. This year’s delegation is significantly larger than those of the past, demonstrating the increased importance that the next generation of US leaders attach to Taiwan. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend my sincerest welcome to you all. The Taiwan Strait, an issue of importance for our guests, has become a global issue. There is a high degree of international consensus that peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait are indispensable elements in global security and prosperity. Facing military threats from China, Taiwan proposed the Four Pillars of Peace action plan. First, we are actively implementing military reforms, enhancing whole-of-society defense resilience, and working to increase our defense budget to more than 3 percent of GDP. Second, we are strengthening our economic resilience. As Taiwan’s economy must keep advancing, we can no longer put all our eggs in one basket. We are taking action to remain firmly rooted in Taiwan while expanding our global presence and marketing worldwide. In these efforts, we are already seeing results. Third, we are standing side-by-side with other democratic countries to demonstrate the strength of deterrence and achieve our goal of peace through strength. And fourth, Taiwan is willing, under the principles of parity and dignity, to conduct exchanges and cooperate with China towards achieving peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. This April 10 marked the 46th anniversary of the enactment of the Taiwan Relations Act. We thank the US government for continuing its arms sales to Taiwan over the years, supporting Taiwan’s efforts to enhance its national defense capabilities and jointly maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. We look forward to Taiwan and the US continuing to strengthen collaboration on the development of both our defense industries as well as the building of non-red supply chains. This will yield even more results and further deepen our economic and trade partnership. The US is now the main destination for outbound investment from Taiwan. Moving forward, we will promote our “Taiwan plus one” policy, that is, new arrangements for Taiwan plus the US. And our government will form a “Taiwan investment in the US team” to expand investment. We hope this will bring Taiwan-US economic and trade cooperation even closer and, through mutually beneficial assistance, allow us to generate development that benefits both our sides while reducing our trade deficit. In closing, thank you once again for visiting Taiwan. We hope your trip is fruitful and leaves you with a deep impression of Taiwan. We also hope that going forward you continue supporting Taiwan and advancing even greater development for Taiwan-US ties.  Chair Flournoy then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for making time to receive their delegation. Referring to President Lai’s earlier remarks, she said that it is quite an impressive group, as past members of this program have gone on to become members of the US Congress, leading government experts, and leaders in the think-tank world and in the private sector. She remarked that investing in this group is a wonderful privilege for her and that they appreciate President Lai’s agreeing to take the time to engage in exchange with them. Chair Flournoy emphasized that they are visiting Taiwan at a critical moment, when there is so much change and volatility in the geostrategic environment, a lot of uncertainty, and a lot of unpredictability. She stated that given our shared values, our shared passion for democracy and human rights, and our shared interests in peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, this is an important time for dialogue, collaboration, and looking for additional opportunities where we can work together towards regional peace and stability.

    Details
    2025-04-18
    President Lai meets US delegation from Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia and the Pacific
    On the afternoon of April 18, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Senator Pete Ricketts, chairman of the United States Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy. In remarks, President Lai said we hope to promote our Taiwan plus one policy, that is, new industrial arrangements for Taiwan plus the US, to leverage the strengths of both sides and reinforce our links in such areas as the economy, trade, and technological innovation. The president said that by deepening cooperation, Taiwan and the US will be better positioned to work together on building non-red supply chains. He said a more secure and sustainable economic and trade partnership will allow us to address the challenges posed by geopolitics, climate change, and the restructuring of global supply chains. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I warmly welcome you all to Taiwan. I want to take this opportunity to especially thank Chairman Pete Ricketts and Ranking Member Chris Coons for their high regard and support for Taiwan. Chairman Ricketts has elected to visit Taiwan on his first overseas trip since taking up his new position in January. Ranking Member Coons made a dedicated trip to Taiwan in 2021 to announce a donation of COVID-19 vaccines on behalf of the US government. He also visited last May, soon after my inauguration, continuing to deepen Taiwan-US exchanges. Thanks to support from Chairman Ricketts and Ranking Member Coons, the US Congress has continued to introduce many concrete initiatives and resources to assist Taiwan through the National Defense Authorization Act and Consolidated Appropriations Act, bringing the Taiwan-US partnership even closer. For this, I want to again express my gratitude. There has long been bipartisan support in the US Congress for maintaining security in the Taiwan Strait. Faced with China’s persistent political and military intimidation, Taiwan will endeavor to reform national defense and enhance whole-of-society defense resilience. We will also make special budget allocations to ensure that our defense budget exceeds 3 percent of GDP, up from the current 2.5 percent, so as to enhance Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities. We look forward to Taiwan and the US continuing to work together to maintain peace and stability in the region. We will also promote our Taiwan plus one policy, that is, new industrial arrangements for Taiwan plus the US. We hope to leverage the strengths of both sides and reinforce our links in such areas as the economy, trade, and technological innovation, jointly promoting prosperity and development. We believe that by deepening cooperation through the Taiwan plus one policy, Taiwan and the US will be better positioned to work together on building non-red supply chains. A more secure and sustainable economic and trade partnership will allow us to address the challenges posed by geopolitics, climate change, and the restructuring of global supply chains. In closing, I wish Chairman Ricketts and Ranking Member Coons a smooth and successful visit. Chairman Ricketts then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for his hospitality. He said that he and his delegation have had a wonderful time meeting with government officials, industry representatives, and the team at the American Institute in Taiwan. Highlighting that Taiwan has long been a friend and partner of the US, he said their bipartisan delegation to Taiwan emphasizes long-time bipartisan support in the US Congress for Taiwan, and though administrations change, that bipartisan support remains. Chairman Ricketts stated that the US is committed to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and that they want to see peace across the Taiwan Strait. He also stated that the US opposes any unilateral change in the status of Taiwan and that they expect any differences between Taiwan and China to be resolved peacefully without coercion or the threat of force. To that end, he said, the US will continue to assist Taiwan in its self-defense and will also step up by bolstering its own defense capabilities, noting that there is broad consensus on this in the US Congress. Chairman Ricketts stated that they want to see Taiwan participate in international organizations and memberships where appropriate, and encourage Taiwan to reach out to current and past diplomatic allies to strengthen those bilateral relationships. He pointed out that the long economic relationship between the US and Taiwan is important for our as well as the entire world’s security and prosperity. He also noted that there are many opportunities for us to continue to grow the economic relationship that will help create more prosperity for our respective peoples and ensure that we are more secure in the world. Chairman Ricketts emphasized that they made this trip early on in the new US administration to work with Taiwan to develop three points: security, diplomatic relations, and the economy. He stated that in the face of rising aggression from communist China, the US will provide commensurate help to Taiwan in self-defense and that they will continue to provide the services and tools needed. In closing, Chairman Ricketts once again thanked President Lai for the hospitality and said he looks forward to dialogue on how we can continue these relationships. Ranking Member Coons then delivered remarks. Mentioning that their delegation also visited the Philippines on this trip, he said that there and in Taiwan, they have been focused on peace, stability, and security, and the ways for deepening and strengthening economic and security relations. He noted that 46 years ago, the US Senate passed the Taiwan Relations Act, adding that it was strongly bipartisan when enacted and that support for it is still strongly bipartisan today. Its core commitment, he said, is that the US will be engaged and will be a partner in ensuring that any dispute or challenge across the strait will be resolved peacefully, and that Taiwan will have the resources it needs for its self-defense. Ranking Member Coons said that between people, friendships are deepest and most enduring when they are based not just on interests but on values, and that the same is true between the US and Taiwan. Free press, free enterprise, free societies, democracy – these core shared values, he said, anchor our friendship and partnership, making them deeper. He remarked that they are grateful for the significant investment in the US being made by companies from Taiwan, but what anchors our partnership, in addition to these important investments and investments being made by Taiwan in its own security, are the values that mobilize our free-enterprise spirit and our commitment to free societies. In Europe in recent years, Ranking Member Coons said, an aggressive nation has tried to change boundaries and change history by force. He said that the US and dozens of countries committed to freedom have come to the aid of Ukraine to defend it, help it stabilize, and secure its future. So too in this region of the world, he added, the US and a bipartisan group in the US Senate are committed to stable, secure, peaceful relations and to deterring any unilateral effort to change the status quo by force. In closing, he said he is grateful for a chance to return to Taiwan after the pandemic and that he looks forward to our conversation, our partnership, and the important work we have in front of us. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by American Institute in Taiwan Taipei Office Director Raymond Greene.

    Details
    2025-04-17
    President Lai meets New Zealand delegation from All-Party Parliamentary Group on Taiwan  
    On the morning of April 17, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from New Zealand’s All-Party Parliamentary Group on Taiwan. In remarks, President Lai thanked the government of New Zealand for reiterating the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait on multiple occasions since last year. He also stated that this year, the Taiwan-New Zealand economic cooperation agreement (ANZTEC) is being implemented in its complete form. The president expressed hope that deeper collaboration in such fields as smart agriculture, food manufacturing, biomedicine, the digital economy, and clean energy, as well as exchanges among our indigenous peoples, will allow our economies and industries to continue evolving as they adapt to the challenges arising from global changes. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I extend a warm welcome to all of our guests. New Zealand’s All-Party Parliamentary Group on Taiwan was established in 2023, marking a significant milestone in the deepening of Taiwan-New Zealand relations. I would like to thank Members of Parliament Stuart Smith and Tangi Utikere for leading this delegation, and thank all our guests for demonstrating support for Taiwan through action. We currently face a rapidly changing international landscape. Authoritarian regimes continue to converge and expand. Democracies must actively cooperate and jointly safeguard peace, stability, and the prosperous development of the Indo-Pacific region. Since last year, the government of New Zealand has on multiple occasions reiterated the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to express our sincere gratitude for these statements and demonstrations of support. This year, ANZTEC is being implemented in its complete form. We look forward to exploring even more diverse markets with New Zealand. Deeper collaboration in such fields as smart agriculture, food manufacturing, biomedicine, the digital economy, and clean energy, as well as exchanges among indigenous peoples, will allow our economies and industries to continue evolving as they adapt to the challenges arising from global changes. Taiwan and New Zealand share the universal values of democracy, freedom, and respect for human rights, and parliamentary diplomacy is a tradition practiced by democracies around the world. Looking ahead, our parliamentary exchanges and mutual visits are bound to become more frequent. This will enable us to explore even more opportunities for cooperation and further deepen and solidify the democratic partnership between Taiwan and New Zealand. Thank you once again for making the long journey to visit us. I wish you a fruitful and successful trip. I also hope that everyone can take time to see more of Taiwan, try our local cuisine, and learn more about our culture. I hope our guests will fall in love with Taiwan. MP Smith then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great pleasure and an honor to be received by President Lai. The MP, noting that President Lai already covered many of the points he planned to make, went on to say that New Zealand and Taiwan share many values. He indicated that both are trading nations that rely on easy access for imports and exports, and that is why freedom of navigation is so important. That is why New Zealand had a naval vessel sail through the Taiwan Strait, he said, to underline the importance of freedom of navigation and our mutual security. MP Smith said that they look forward to building stronger relationships and enhancing the trade between our two nations. He added that New Zealand has much to offer in the field of geothermal energy to assist Taiwan, and mentioned that New Zealand is third largest in terms of the number of rocket launchers for satellites, which could assist Taiwan with communications in the future. New Zealand has other products as well, he said, but looks for assistance from Taiwan’s technology and technological sector. Lastly, MP Smith stated that he looks forward to a long and prosperous relationship between Taiwan and New Zealand. MP Utikere then delivered remarks, indicating that like Taiwan, New Zealand is a nation that is surrounded by ocean, which means that they rely on strong partnerships with communities of interest all around the globe. He said that the all-party parliamentary friendship group that was established and that they are a part of goes a long way in ensuring that a secure relationship between our two parliaments can continue to prosper. The MP also thanked Taiwan’s Representative to New Zealand Joanne Ou (歐江安) and her team for their work, which has ensured the success of the delegation’s visit. He said that the delegation experienced meetings with ministers in Taiwan’s government, members of the legislature, and those from the non-government organization sector as well. He also said that they enjoyed the opportunity to visit Wulai, and that the strength of the connections between the indigenous peoples of Taiwan and the indigenous peoples of Aotearoa New Zealand is something that certainly landed with members of the delegation. MP Utikere noted that he will take up President Lai’s offer on experiencing more of Taiwan, and will spend a few extra days in Tainan, which he understands has a very special place in the president’s heart, adding that he looks forward to his time and experiences there. The MP concluded his remarks by saying that this will be a relationship that continues to go from strength to strength. After their remarks, the New Zealand delegation sang the Māori song “Tutira Mai Nga Iwi” to extend best wishes to Taiwan. Also in attendance at the meeting were New Zealand Members of Parliament Jamie Arbuckle, Greg Fleming, Hamish Campbell, Cameron Luxton, and Helen White.  

    Details
    2025-04-15
    President Lai meets delegation led by Tuvalu Deputy Prime Minister Panapasi Nelesone 
    On the afternoon of April 15, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Tuvalu Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Economic Development Panapasi Nelesone and his wife. In remarks, President Lai thanked Tuvalu for its staunch and long-term backing of Taiwan’s international participation. The president said he looks forward to our nations deepening bilateral ties in such areas as agriculture, medicine, education, and information and communications technology and working together toward greater peace, prosperity, and development in the Pacific region. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I extend a very warm welcome to Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone and Madame Corinna Ituaso Laafai as they lead this delegation to Taiwan. Our distinguished guests are the first delegation from Tuvalu that I have received at the Presidential Office this year. During my visit to Tuvalu last year, I met and exchanged views with Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone and the ministers present. I am delighted to meet you again today and thank you once again for the hospitality you accorded my delegation. The culture of Tuvalu and the warmth of its people are not easily forgotten. Tuvalu’s support for Taiwan has also touched us deeply. I want to take this opportunity to thank Tuvalu for staunchly backing Taiwan’s international participation over the past several decades. Our two countries have supported each other like family and have together made contributions in the international arena. Last Tuesday, I received the credentials of Ambassador Lily Tangisia Faavae and expressed my hope for Taiwan and Tuvalu continuing to deepen bilateral relations. This visit by Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone is an important step in that regard. Our two countries will be signing a labor cooperation agreement and an agreement concerning the recognition of training and certification of seafarers. This will expand bilateral cooperation at multiple levels and bring our relations even closer. Taiwan and Tuvalu are maritime nations and share the values of democracy and freedom. Our two countries have stood shoulder to shoulder to protect marine resources and address the challenges posed by climate change and authoritarianism, and we aspire to work toward greater peace, prosperity, and development in the Pacific region. Our nations have produced fruitful results in such areas as agriculture, medicine, education, and information and communications technology. I anticipate that, with the support of Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone and our distinguished guests, we can continue to employ a more diverse range of strategies to begin a new chapter in our diplomatic partnership. Together, we can make even greater and more concrete contributions to regional development. Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for his kind words of welcome and the warm hospitality extended to his delegation. On behalf of the government and people of Tuvalu, he conveyed their gratitude to the president and the people of Taiwan for the generous support, as well as for the enduring friendship we share. He said that Taiwan’s steadfast commitment to our bilateral relationship has been instrumental in advancing our shared values of democracy, resilience, and sustainable development. From vital development assistance to cooperation in health, education, and climate change resilience, he added, Taiwan’s contributions have made a significant impact on the lives of the people of Tuvalu.  For Taiwan’s recent generous donation of shoes for Tuvaluan primary school students, Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone expressed thanks to President Lai. He commented that these gifts, which underscore a deep commitment to the welfare of their youth, transcend mere material support; they are symbols of care, friendship, and hope for the future generations. Noting that our bilateral relationship is built on mutual respect, shared values, and a common vision for sustainable development in the Pacific, he expressed confidence that this partnership will continue to flourish and will serve as a beacon of cooperation and solidarity within our region.  The delegation also included Tuvalu Minister of Foreign Affairs, Labour, and Trade Paulson Panapa; Minister of Public Works, Infrastructure Development and Water Ampelosa Tehulu, and was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Tuvalu Ambassador Faavae.

    Details
    2025-04-10
    President Lai pens Bloomberg News article on Taiwan’s response to US reciprocal tariffs
    On April 10, an article penned by President Lai Ching-te entitled “Taiwan Has a Roadmap for Deeper US Trade Ties” was published by Bloomberg News, explaining to a global audience Taiwan’s strategy on trade with the United States, as well as how Taiwan will engage in dialogue with the aim of removing bilateral trade barriers, increasing investment between Taiwan and the US, and reducing tariffs to zero. The following is the full text of President Lai’s article: Last month, the first of Taiwan’s 66 new F-16Vs rolled off the assembly line in Greenville, South Carolina. Signed during President Donald Trump’s first term, the $8 billion deal stands as a testament to American ingenuity and leadership in advanced manufacturing. Beyond its economic impact – creating thousands of well-paying jobs across the US – it strengthens the foundations of peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.  This deal is emblematic of the close interests shared between Taiwan and the US. Our bond is forged by an unwavering belief in freedom and liberty. For decades, our two countries have stood shoulder-to-shoulder in deterring communist expansionism. Even as Beijing intensifies its air force and naval exercises in our vicinity, we remain resolute. Taiwan will always be a bastion of democracy and peace in the region. This partnership extends well beyond the security realm. Though home to just 23 million people, Taiwan has in recent years become a significant investor in America. TSMC recently announced it will raise its total investment in the US to $165 billion – an initiative that will create 40,000 construction jobs and tens of thousands more in advanced chip manufacturing and R&D. This investment will bolster the emergence of a new high-tech cluster in Arizona. Taiwan is committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation in manufacturing and innovation. As a trade-dependent economy, our long-term success is built on trade relationships that are fair, reciprocal and mutually beneficial. Encouraging Taiwanese businesses to expand their global footprint, particularly in the US, is a vital part of this strategy. Deepening commercial ties between Taiwanese and American firms is another. These core principles will guide our response to President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs. First, we will seek to restart trade negotiations with a common objective of reducing all tariffs between Taiwan and the US. While Taiwan already maintains low tariffs, with an average nominal rate of 6%, we are willing to further cut this rate to zero on the basis of reciprocity with the US. By removing the last vestiges to free and fair trade, we seek to encourage greater trade and investment flows between our two countries. Second, Taiwan will rapidly expand procurement of American goods. Over the past five years, rising demand for semiconductors and AI-related components has increased our trade surplus. In response to these market trends, Taiwan will seek to narrow the trade imbalance through the procurement of energy, agriculture and other industrial goods from the US. These efforts will create thousands of new jobs across multiple sectors.  We’ll also pursue additional arms procurements that are vital to our self-defense and contribute to peace and stability over the Taiwan Strait. During President Trump’s first term, we secured $18 billion in arms deals, including advanced fighter jets, tanks and anti-ship missiles. Future purchases, which are not reflected in trade balances, build on our economic and security partnership while being essential to Taiwan’s “Peace Through Strength” approach. Third, new investments will be made across the US. Already, Taiwanese firms support 400,000 jobs throughout all 50 states. Beyond TSMC, we also see emerging opportunities in electronics, ICT, energy and petrochemicals. We will establish a cross-agency “US Investment Team” to support bilateral trade and investment – and we hope that efforts will be reciprocated by the Trump administration. Fourth, we are committed to removing non-tariff trade barriers. Taiwan will take concrete steps to resolve persistent issues that have long impeded trade negotiations. And finally, we will strongly address US concerns over export controls and improper transshipment of low-cost goods through Taiwan. These steps form the basis of a comprehensive roadmap for how Taiwan will navigate the shifting trade landscape, transforming challenges in the Taiwan-US economic relationship into new opportunities for growth, resilience and strategic alignment. At a time of growing global uncertainty, underpinned by growing Chinese assertiveness, closer trade ties are more than sound economics; they are a critical pillar of regional security. Our approach is long-term and principled, grounded in a lasting commitment to our friendship with the US, a firm belief in the benefits of fair and reciprocal trade, and an unwavering dedication to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. We are confident that our shared economic and security interests will not only overcome turbulence in the international trade environment – they will define the future of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

    Details
    2025-04-06
    President Lai delivers remarks on US tariff policy response
    On April 6, President Lai Ching-te delivered recorded remarks regarding the impact of the 32 percent tariff that the United States government recently imposed on imports from Taiwan in the name of reciprocity. In his remarks, President Lai explained that the government will adopt five response strategies, including making every effort to improve reciprocal tariff rates through negotiations, adopting a support plan for affected domestic industries, adopting medium- and long-term economic development plans, forming new “Taiwan plus the US” arrangements, and launching industry listening tours. The president emphasized that as we face this latest challenge, the government and civil society will work hand in hand, and expressed hope that all parties, both ruling and opposition, will support the measures that the Executive Yuan will take to open up a broader path for Taiwan’s economy. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: My fellow citizens, good evening. The US government recently announced higher tariffs on countries around the world in the name of reciprocity, including imposing a 32 percent tariff on imports from Taiwan. This is bound to have a major impact on our nation. Various countries have already responded, and some have even adopted retaliatory measures. Tremendous changes in the global economy are expected. Taiwan is an export-led economy, and in facing future challenges there will inevitably be difficulties, so we must proceed carefully to turn danger into safety. During this time, I want to express gratitude to all sectors of society for providing valuable opinions, which the government regards highly, and will use as a reference to make policy decisions.  However, if we calmly and carefully analyze Taiwan’s trade with the US, we find that last year Taiwan’s exports to the US were valued at US$111.4 billion, accounting for 23.4 percent of total export value, with the other 75-plus percent of products sold worldwide to countries other than the US. Of products sold to the US, competitive ICT products and electronic components accounted for 65.4 percent. This shows that Taiwan’s economy does still have considerable resilience. As long as our response strategies are appropriate, and the public and private sectors join forces, we can reduce impacts. Please do not panic. To address the reciprocal tariffs by the US, Taiwan has no plans to adopt retaliatory tariffs. There will be no change in corporate investment commitments to the US, as long as they are consistent with national interests. But we must ensure the US clearly understands Taiwan’s contributions to US economic development. More importantly, we must actively seek to understand changes in the global economic situation, strengthen Taiwan-US industry cooperation, elevate the status of Taiwan industries in global supply chains, and with safeguarding the continued development of Taiwan’s economy as our goal, adopt the following five strategies to respond. Strategy one: Make every effort to improve reciprocal tariff rates through negotiations using the following five methods:  1. Taiwan has already formed a negotiation team led by Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun (鄭麗君). The team includes members from the National Security Council, the Office of Trade Negotiations, and relevant Executive Yuan ministries and agencies, as well as academia and industry. Like the US-Mexico-Canada free trade agreement, negotiations on tariffs can start from Taiwan-US bilateral zero-tariff treatment. 2. To expand purchases from the US and thereby reduce the trade deficit, the Executive Yuan has already completed an inventory regarding large-scale procurement plans for agricultural, industrial, petroleum, and natural gas products, and the Ministry of National Defense has also proposed a military procurement list. All procurement plans will be actively pursued. 3. Expand investments in the US. Taiwan’s cumulative investment in the US already exceeds US$100 billion, creating approximately 400,000 jobs. In the future, in addition to increased investment in the US by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, other industries such as electronics, ICT, petrochemicals, and natural gas can all increase their US investments, deepening Taiwan-US industry cooperation. Taiwan’s government has helped form a “Taiwan investment in the US” team, and hopes that the US will reciprocate by forming a “US investment in Taiwan” team to bring about closer Taiwan-US trade cooperation, jointly creating a future economic golden age.  4. We must eliminate non-tariff barriers to trade. Non-tariff barriers are an indicator by which the US assesses whether a trading partner is trading fairly with the US. Therefore, we will proactively resolve longstanding non-tariff barriers so that negotiations can proceed more smoothly. 5. We must resolve two issues that have been matters of longstanding concern to the US. One regards high-tech export controls, and the other regards illegal transshipment of dumped goods, otherwise referred to as “origin washing.” Strategy two: We must adopt a plan for supporting our industries. For industries that will be affected by the tariffs, and especially traditional industries as well as micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises, we will provide timely and needed support and assistance. Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) and his administrative team recently announced a package of 20 specific measures designed to address nine areas. Moving forward, the support we provide to different industries will depend on how they are affected by the tariffs, will take into account the particular features of each industry, and will help each industry innovate, upgrade, and transform. Strategy three: We must adopt medium- and long-term economic development plans. At this point in time, our government must simultaneously adopt new strategies for economic and industrial development. This is also the fundamental path to solutions for future economic challenges. The government will proactively cooperate with friends and allies, develop a diverse range of markets, and achieve closer integration of entities in the upper, middle, and lower reaches of industrial supply chains. This course of action will make Taiwan’s industrial ecosystem more complete, and will help Taiwanese industries upgrade and transform. We must also make good use of the competitive advantages we possess in such areas as semiconductor manufacturing, integrated chip design, ICT, and smart manufacturing to build Taiwan into an AI island, and promote relevant applications for food, clothing, housing, and transportation, as well as military, security and surveillance, next-generation communications, and the medical and health and wellness industries as we advance toward a smarter, more sustainable, and more prosperous new Taiwan. Strategy four: “Taiwan plus one,” i.e., new “Taiwan plus the US” arrangements: While staying firmly rooted in Taiwan, our enterprises are expanding their global presence and marketing worldwide. This has been our national economic development strategy, and the most important aspect is maintaining a solid base here in Taiwan. We absolutely must maintain a solid footing, and cannot allow the present strife to cause us to waver. Therefore, our government will incentivize investments, carry out deregulation, and continue to improve Taiwan’s investment climate by actively resolving problems involving access to water, electricity, land, human resources, and professional talent. This will enable corporations to stay in Taiwan and continue investing here. In addition, we must also help the overseas manufacturing facilities of offshore Taiwanese businesses to make necessary adjustments to support our “Taiwan plus one” policy, in that our national economic development strategy will be adjusted as follows: to stay firmly rooted in Taiwan while expanding our global presence, strengthening US ties, and marketing worldwide. We intend to make use of the new state of supply chains to strengthen cooperation between Taiwanese and US industries, and gain further access to US markets. Strategy five: Launch industry listening tours: All industrial firms, regardless of sector or size, will be affected to some degree once the US reciprocal tariffs go into effect. The administrative teams led by myself and Premier Cho will hear out industry concerns so that we can quickly resolve problems and make sure policies meet actual needs. My fellow citizens, over the past half-century and more, Taiwan has been through two energy crises, the Asian financial crisis, the global financial crisis, and pandemics. We have been able to not only withstand one test after another, but even turn crises into opportunities. The Taiwanese economy has emerged from these crises stronger and more resilient than ever. As we face this latest challenge, the government and civil society will work hand in hand, and I hope that all parties in the legislature, both ruling and opposition, will support the measures that the Executive Yuan will take to open up a broader path for Taiwan’s economy. Let us join together and give it our all. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: McAdam Included on USA Today’s list of the Best Financial Advisory Firms 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PHILADELPHIA, April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — McAdam, a national financial services firm headquartered in Philadelphia, has been named on the USA Today list of Best Financial Advisory Firms 2025. This is the third year in a row McAdam has been recognized on the list. This prestigious award is presented by USA Today and Statista Inc., the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider. The awards list was announced on April 23rd, 2025, and can be viewed on USATODAY.COM.

    The Best Financial Advisory Firms 2025 list is awarded to the top registered investment advisory (RIA) firms in the United States based on two dimensions:

    • Recommendations from financial advisors, clients, and industry experts:
      Recommendations were collected via an independent survey among over 30,000 individuals. Clients, industry experts, and financial advisors working for an RIA firm could recommend the RIA firms they find commendable.
    • Development of Assets under Management (AUM):
      Both short-term (12-month) and long-term (5-year) AUM development were analyzed using publicly available data.

    Based on the results of the study, McAdam is pleased to be recognized on USA TODAY’s list of the Best Financial Advisory Firms 2025.

    “Our firm is honored to be included on the national USA Today list of ‘Best Financial Advisory Firms’ for the third time.   The independent survey affirms our company has developed strong lasting relationships in the industry. McAdam advisors and staff each make important contributions in building our brand awareness one client interaction at a time,” said Chief Executive Officer Michael McAdam.     

    Statista publishes hundreds of worldwide industry rankings and company listings with high-profile media partners. This research and analysis service is based on the success of statista.com, the leading data and business intelligence portal that provides statistics, relevant business data, and various market and consumer studies and surveys.

    About McAdam LLC.

    Founded in 2008, McAdam Financial is a nationally recognized independent financial advisory firm. Its Philadelphia headquarters leads a nationwide network of fiduciary financial advisors operating in Boston, Chicago, and Tysons Corner. The firm is dedicated to helping clients achieve their financial goals through a comprehensive approach that includes retirement planning, 401(k) optimization, tax and insurance analysis, investment planning, education planning, estate planning, and employer benefits optimization. McAdam Financial provides specialized strategies to grow, sustain, and protect wealth, helping enable clients to enjoy a secure and fulfilling retirement.

    Important Disclosures

    Awards, rankings, ratings, and/or recognition by unaffiliated rating services and/or publications are not indicative of McAdam’s future performance, should not be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that such client will experience a certain level of results if McAdam is engaged, or continues to be engaged to provide investment advisory services, nor should they be construed as a current or past endorsement of McAdam by any of its clients.

    Rankings published by magazines, and others, generally base their selections exclusively on information prepared and/or submitted by the recognized adviser. Such awards, rankings, ratings, and/or recognition are no guarantee of future investment success. Working with a highly rated advisor does not ensure that a client or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance. Generally, rankings are based on information prepared and submitted by the adviser.

    The awards listed do not require memberships or payment for consideration. By virtue of disclosing an award ranking, McAdam is disclosing favorable ratings (to the extent that McAdam is ranked above other advisors) and unfavorable ratings (to the extent that McAdam is ranked below other advisors). The awards and rankings are independently granted. McAdam is not affiliated with the awarding rating services or and/or publications listed.

    Securities offered only by duly registered individuals through Madison Avenue Securities, LLC (MAS), member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered only by duly registered individuals of McAdam, LLC, a registered investment advisor. Insurance products and services offered through McAdam Financial. McAdam, LLC and McAdam Financial are not affiliated with MAS.

    Contact:
    Kevin McAdam, CFA
    P: (203) 912-2779
    Email: Kevin@McAdamFA.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Tower Semiconductor Announces First Quarter 2025 Financial Results and Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIGDAL HAEMEK, Israel – April 23, 2025 – Tower Semiconductor (NASDAQ/ TASE: TSEM), the leading foundry of high value analog semiconductor solutions, will issue its first quarter 2025 earnings release on Wednesday, May 14, 2025. The Company will hold a conference call to discuss its first quarter 2025 financial results and second quarter 2025 guidance on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time (09:00 a.m. Central, 08:00 a.m. Mountain, 07:00 a.m. Pacific and 05:00 p.m. Israel time).

    The call will be webcast and available through the Investor Relations section of Tower Semiconductor’s website at https://ir.towersemi.com/, where the pre-registration form required for dial-in participation is also accessible. Upon completing the registration, participants will receive the dial-in details, a unique PIN, and a confirmation email with all necessary information. The teleconference will be available for replay for 90 days.

    About Tower Semiconductor         

    Tower Semiconductor Ltd. (NASDAQ/TASE: TSEM), the leading foundry of high-value analog semiconductor solutions, provides technology, development, and process platforms for its customers in growing markets such as consumer, industrial, automotive, mobile, infrastructure, medical and aerospace and defense. Tower Semiconductor focuses on creating a positive and sustainable impact on the world through long-term partnerships and its advanced and innovative analog technology offering, comprised of a broad range of customizable process platforms such as SiGe, BiCMOS, mixed-signal/CMOS, RF CMOS, CMOS image sensor, non-imaging sensors, displays, integrated power management (BCD and 700V), photonics, and MEMS. Tower Semiconductor also provides world-class design enablement for a quick and accurate design cycle as well as process transfer services including development, transfer, and optimization, to IDMs and fabless companies. To provide multi-fab sourcing and extended capacity for its customers, Tower Semiconductor owns one operating facility in Israel (200mm), two in the U.S. (200mm), two in Japan (200mm and 300mm) which it owns through its 51% holdings in TPSCo, shares a 300mm facility in Agrate, Italy with STMicroelectronics as well as has access to a 300mm capacity corridor in Intel’s New Mexico factory. For more information, please visit: www.towersemi.com.

    ###

    Contact Information:
    Liat Avraham
    Investor Relations
    liatavra@towersemi.com | +972 4 650 6154

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Trump Swears In the Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    The White House

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0c6pm6393C4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MATSUI AND BLUMENTHAL SLAM TERMINATION OF CRITICAL CRUISE LINE SANITATION PROGRAM AMID GROWING REPORTS OF ILLNESS OUTBREAKS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA) and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) wrote to Acting Director of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Susan Monarez criticizing the elimination of all full-time staff at the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP), a vital program that works to prevent and control public health incidents and disease outbreaks aboard cruise ships. In their letter, Matsui and Blumenthal cite recent reports of illnesses spreading on cruise ships, including norovirus. The decimation of the VSP comes at a time of cuts, freezes, and firings at the CDC from the Trump Administration’s Department of Government Efficiency.

    “Through routine inspections, training of cruise ship personnel, and responses to and documentation of outbreaks aboard cruise ships, the VSP protects and promotes public health for cruisegoers everywhere. This critical information helps the traveling public make informed decisions before they sail,” wrote the lawmakers. “It is therefore confounding that the VSP has been swept up in the indiscriminate cuts that were initiated recently at the CDC.”

    “As we saw with the rampant spread of COVID-19 aboard cruise ships in the early days of the pandemic, these environments provide a prime opportunity for the transmission of disease. That is why it is absolutely critical that the CDC maintains the office and staff responsible for dealing with outbreaks on cruise ships. Severely reducing or eliminating the program that holds CDC’s subject matter expertise on this issue is short-sighted, and will ultimately lead to more illnesses,” continued Matsui and Blumenthal.

    The full text of the letter can be found below.

     Dear Acting Director Monarez,

     We are extremely alarmed by reports that all full-time employees of the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) have been terminated.[1] As news of the worst outbreak aboard a cruise ship this year is making headlines, it is incomprehensible that the officials responsible for protecting the health of the cruise-going public would be abruptly terminated.[2]

     The VSP is a vital program that works to prevent, control, and publicize public health incidents aboard cruise ships.[3] Through routine inspections, training of cruise ship personnel, and responses to and documentation of outbreaks aboard cruise ships, the VSP protects and promotes public health for cruisegoers everywhere.[4] Among its most important functions are VSP’s maintenance of databases of outbreaks in its jurisdiction and inspection scores for cruise ships.[5] This critical information helps the traveling public make informed decisions before they sail. It is therefore confounding that the VSP has been swept up in the indiscriminate cuts that were initiated recently at the CDC. According to reports, the CDC’s Division of Environmental Health Science and Practice, which housed the VSP, was decimated by staff losses.[6] 

    Elimination of the VSP is especially concerning now, when just last month a massive norovirus outbreak was reported on a luxury cruise liner travelling from England to the Caribbean.[7] This outbreak aboard the Queen Mary 2 sickened 224 passengers and 17 crew members.[8] And indeed, while this is the most widespread cruise ship outbreak so far this year, it is far from the first. According to the database maintained by the VSP, there have already been thirteen confirmed outbreaks aboard cruise ships in the first three months of 2025, sickening almost 1,400 people this year alone.[9]

     As we saw with the rampant spread of COVID-19 aboard cruise ships in the early days of the pandemic, these environments provide a prime opportunity for the transmission of disease. That is why it is absolutely critical that the CDC maintains the office and staff responsible for dealing with outbreaks on cruise ships. Severely reducing or eliminating the program that holds CDC’s subject matter expertise on this issue is short-sighted, and will ultimately lead to more illnesses. 

    It is therefore critical to understand CDC’s plan to continue its vital cruise ship monitoring efforts, in the absence of the VSP. To that end, we request answers to the following questions by May 6, 2025:

    1. Please describe what plans, if any, the CDC has for eliminating the VSP.
      1. Please describe what metrics, if any, were used when evaluating the potential elimination of the VSP.
    2. Please describe how the CDC intends to fulfill its statutory obligations to protect public health aboard cruise ships in the absence of the VSP.
    3. How many employees working for the VSP have left since January 20, 2025? Please include employees who accepted a deferred resignation offer, had their employment terminated, or were placed on administrative leave.
    4. Will CDC continue to update its inspection scores database so the travelling public can make informed decisions when planning a cruise?
    5. Will CDC continue to update its database of outbreaks to ensure the public has access to critical public health information about illnesses on cruise ships?

     We appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to your timely response. 

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MATSUI, NEGUSE, COHEN, MCCLELLAN LEAD RESOLUTION TO CELEBRATE EARTH DAY

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07), co-chair of the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC), Assistant Democratic Leader Joe Neguse (CO-02), and Reps. Steve Cohen (TN-09), and Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) led a group of 48 lawmakers in introducing a resolution to commemorate Earth Day 2025. The resolution celebrates recent historic environmental actions that have improved the health and wellbeing of our planet, while also reaffirming the work that still needs to be done to secure a livable future for the next generation. 

    “Since the first declaration of Earth Day fifty-five years ago, we have made incredible progress towards protecting and restoring the natural world that we rely on and enjoy,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “However, in less than 100 days, President Trump has worked to erase decades of progress, dismantling climate science, weakening critical environmental agencies, and launching an all-out assault on clean air and clean water. This unprecedented assault on clean air and clean water is a stark reminder that Earth Day remains as important and revolutionary today as it was in 1970. This Earth Day, I am honored to join my colleagues in reaffirming and celebrating our shared responsibility to protect and preserve our planet for future generations, and I will never stop fighting to uphold these ideals at every level of government.”

    “On Earth Day, communities across the country reaffirm their commitment to protecting the environment and our treasured public lands,” said Congressman Neguse. “And for me, as a proud Coloradan, the fight to ensure future generations can enjoy the outdoors the same way we have is deeply personal. Which is why I’m proud to join my colleagues in continuing to charge forward in Congress with efforts that prioritize protecting our planet.” 

    “Fifty-five years after the first Earth Day, our commitment to environmental protection must be stronger than ever,” said Congressman Cohen. “The Trump administration is once again doing the bidding of polluters—rolling back clean air and clean water standards, halting enforcement of environmental safeguards, and illegally freezing congressionally authorized funding meant to combat climate change, reduce pollution, and protect public health. Climate change is accelerating. Our air, water, and communities are under threat. Earth Day is not just a reminder of what’s at stake—it’s a call to rededicate ourselves to the fight for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable planet for the next generation.”

    “Our children deserve a future where clean air, safe water, and a stable climate are not luxuries, but guarantees,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “This Earth Day, we must reaffirm our commitment to climate action and environmental justice. We are not just responding to a crisis today — we are building a better, more just world that our children will inherit tomorrow.”

    Congresswoman Matsui has long been a champion of strong environmental protections, life-saving pollution regulations, and bold climate action. In Congress, she has led efforts to strengthen vehicle and power plant pollution standards and supported energy efficiency programs that save American families money. As Co-Chair of the SEEC Lands, Waters, and Nature Task Force, Congresswoman Matsui also coordinates the coalition’s work to preserve the environment, protect public lands and critical habitat, and advance nature-based approaches to addressing climate change. 

    Read the full resolution HERE.

                                                   

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai meets US CNAS NextGen fellows

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2025-04-18
    President Lai meets US delegation from Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia and the Pacific
    On the afternoon of April 18, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Senator Pete Ricketts, chairman of the United States Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy. In remarks, President Lai said we hope to promote our Taiwan plus one policy, that is, new industrial arrangements for Taiwan plus the US, to leverage the strengths of both sides and reinforce our links in such areas as the economy, trade, and technological innovation. The president said that by deepening cooperation, Taiwan and the US will be better positioned to work together on building non-red supply chains. He said a more secure and sustainable economic and trade partnership will allow us to address the challenges posed by geopolitics, climate change, and the restructuring of global supply chains. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I warmly welcome you all to Taiwan. I want to take this opportunity to especially thank Chairman Pete Ricketts and Ranking Member Chris Coons for their high regard and support for Taiwan. Chairman Ricketts has elected to visit Taiwan on his first overseas trip since taking up his new position in January. Ranking Member Coons made a dedicated trip to Taiwan in 2021 to announce a donation of COVID-19 vaccines on behalf of the US government. He also visited last May, soon after my inauguration, continuing to deepen Taiwan-US exchanges. Thanks to support from Chairman Ricketts and Ranking Member Coons, the US Congress has continued to introduce many concrete initiatives and resources to assist Taiwan through the National Defense Authorization Act and Consolidated Appropriations Act, bringing the Taiwan-US partnership even closer. For this, I want to again express my gratitude. There has long been bipartisan support in the US Congress for maintaining security in the Taiwan Strait. Faced with China’s persistent political and military intimidation, Taiwan will endeavor to reform national defense and enhance whole-of-society defense resilience. We will also make special budget allocations to ensure that our defense budget exceeds 3 percent of GDP, up from the current 2.5 percent, so as to enhance Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities. We look forward to Taiwan and the US continuing to work together to maintain peace and stability in the region. We will also promote our Taiwan plus one policy, that is, new industrial arrangements for Taiwan plus the US. We hope to leverage the strengths of both sides and reinforce our links in such areas as the economy, trade, and technological innovation, jointly promoting prosperity and development. We believe that by deepening cooperation through the Taiwan plus one policy, Taiwan and the US will be better positioned to work together on building non-red supply chains. A more secure and sustainable economic and trade partnership will allow us to address the challenges posed by geopolitics, climate change, and the restructuring of global supply chains. In closing, I wish Chairman Ricketts and Ranking Member Coons a smooth and successful visit. Chairman Ricketts then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for his hospitality. He said that he and his delegation have had a wonderful time meeting with government officials, industry representatives, and the team at the American Institute in Taiwan. Highlighting that Taiwan has long been a friend and partner of the US, he said their bipartisan delegation to Taiwan emphasizes long-time bipartisan support in the US Congress for Taiwan, and though administrations change, that bipartisan support remains. Chairman Ricketts stated that the US is committed to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and that they want to see peace across the Taiwan Strait. He also stated that the US opposes any unilateral change in the status of Taiwan and that they expect any differences between Taiwan and China to be resolved peacefully without coercion or the threat of force. To that end, he said, the US will continue to assist Taiwan in its self-defense and will also step up by bolstering its own defense capabilities, noting that there is broad consensus on this in the US Congress. Chairman Ricketts stated that they want to see Taiwan participate in international organizations and memberships where appropriate, and encourage Taiwan to reach out to current and past diplomatic allies to strengthen those bilateral relationships. He pointed out that the long economic relationship between the US and Taiwan is important for our as well as the entire world’s security and prosperity. He also noted that there are many opportunities for us to continue to grow the economic relationship that will help create more prosperity for our respective peoples and ensure that we are more secure in the world. Chairman Ricketts emphasized that they made this trip early on in the new US administration to work with Taiwan to develop three points: security, diplomatic relations, and the economy. He stated that in the face of rising aggression from communist China, the US will provide commensurate help to Taiwan in self-defense and that they will continue to provide the services and tools needed. In closing, Chairman Ricketts once again thanked President Lai for the hospitality and said he looks forward to dialogue on how we can continue these relationships. Ranking Member Coons then delivered remarks. Mentioning that their delegation also visited the Philippines on this trip, he said that there and in Taiwan, they have been focused on peace, stability, and security, and the ways for deepening and strengthening economic and security relations. He noted that 46 years ago, the US Senate passed the Taiwan Relations Act, adding that it was strongly bipartisan when enacted and that support for it is still strongly bipartisan today. Its core commitment, he said, is that the US will be engaged and will be a partner in ensuring that any dispute or challenge across the strait will be resolved peacefully, and that Taiwan will have the resources it needs for its self-defense. Ranking Member Coons said that between people, friendships are deepest and most enduring when they are based not just on interests but on values, and that the same is true between the US and Taiwan. Free press, free enterprise, free societies, democracy – these core shared values, he said, anchor our friendship and partnership, making them deeper. He remarked that they are grateful for the significant investment in the US being made by companies from Taiwan, but what anchors our partnership, in addition to these important investments and investments being made by Taiwan in its own security, are the values that mobilize our free-enterprise spirit and our commitment to free societies. In Europe in recent years, Ranking Member Coons said, an aggressive nation has tried to change boundaries and change history by force. He said that the US and dozens of countries committed to freedom have come to the aid of Ukraine to defend it, help it stabilize, and secure its future. So too in this region of the world, he added, the US and a bipartisan group in the US Senate are committed to stable, secure, peaceful relations and to deterring any unilateral effort to change the status quo by force. In closing, he said he is grateful for a chance to return to Taiwan after the pandemic and that he looks forward to our conversation, our partnership, and the important work we have in front of us. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by American Institute in Taiwan Taipei Office Director Raymond Greene.

    Details
    2025-04-17
    President Lai meets New Zealand delegation from All-Party Parliamentary Group on Taiwan  
    On the morning of April 17, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from New Zealand’s All-Party Parliamentary Group on Taiwan. In remarks, President Lai thanked the government of New Zealand for reiterating the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait on multiple occasions since last year. He also stated that this year, the Taiwan-New Zealand economic cooperation agreement (ANZTEC) is being implemented in its complete form. The president expressed hope that deeper collaboration in such fields as smart agriculture, food manufacturing, biomedicine, the digital economy, and clean energy, as well as exchanges among our indigenous peoples, will allow our economies and industries to continue evolving as they adapt to the challenges arising from global changes. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I extend a warm welcome to all of our guests. New Zealand’s All-Party Parliamentary Group on Taiwan was established in 2023, marking a significant milestone in the deepening of Taiwan-New Zealand relations. I would like to thank Members of Parliament Stuart Smith and Tangi Utikere for leading this delegation, and thank all our guests for demonstrating support for Taiwan through action. We currently face a rapidly changing international landscape. Authoritarian regimes continue to converge and expand. Democracies must actively cooperate and jointly safeguard peace, stability, and the prosperous development of the Indo-Pacific region. Since last year, the government of New Zealand has on multiple occasions reiterated the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to express our sincere gratitude for these statements and demonstrations of support. This year, ANZTEC is being implemented in its complete form. We look forward to exploring even more diverse markets with New Zealand. Deeper collaboration in such fields as smart agriculture, food manufacturing, biomedicine, the digital economy, and clean energy, as well as exchanges among indigenous peoples, will allow our economies and industries to continue evolving as they adapt to the challenges arising from global changes. Taiwan and New Zealand share the universal values of democracy, freedom, and respect for human rights, and parliamentary diplomacy is a tradition practiced by democracies around the world. Looking ahead, our parliamentary exchanges and mutual visits are bound to become more frequent. This will enable us to explore even more opportunities for cooperation and further deepen and solidify the democratic partnership between Taiwan and New Zealand. Thank you once again for making the long journey to visit us. I wish you a fruitful and successful trip. I also hope that everyone can take time to see more of Taiwan, try our local cuisine, and learn more about our culture. I hope our guests will fall in love with Taiwan. MP Smith then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great pleasure and an honor to be received by President Lai. The MP, noting that President Lai already covered many of the points he planned to make, went on to say that New Zealand and Taiwan share many values. He indicated that both are trading nations that rely on easy access for imports and exports, and that is why freedom of navigation is so important. That is why New Zealand had a naval vessel sail through the Taiwan Strait, he said, to underline the importance of freedom of navigation and our mutual security. MP Smith said that they look forward to building stronger relationships and enhancing the trade between our two nations. He added that New Zealand has much to offer in the field of geothermal energy to assist Taiwan, and mentioned that New Zealand is third largest in terms of the number of rocket launchers for satellites, which could assist Taiwan with communications in the future. New Zealand has other products as well, he said, but looks for assistance from Taiwan’s technology and technological sector. Lastly, MP Smith stated that he looks forward to a long and prosperous relationship between Taiwan and New Zealand. MP Utikere then delivered remarks, indicating that like Taiwan, New Zealand is a nation that is surrounded by ocean, which means that they rely on strong partnerships with communities of interest all around the globe. He said that the all-party parliamentary friendship group that was established and that they are a part of goes a long way in ensuring that a secure relationship between our two parliaments can continue to prosper. The MP also thanked Taiwan’s Representative to New Zealand Joanne Ou (歐江安) and her team for their work, which has ensured the success of the delegation’s visit. He said that the delegation experienced meetings with ministers in Taiwan’s government, members of the legislature, and those from the non-government organization sector as well. He also said that they enjoyed the opportunity to visit Wulai, and that the strength of the connections between the indigenous peoples of Taiwan and the indigenous peoples of Aotearoa New Zealand is something that certainly landed with members of the delegation. MP Utikere noted that he will take up President Lai’s offer on experiencing more of Taiwan, and will spend a few extra days in Tainan, which he understands has a very special place in the president’s heart, adding that he looks forward to his time and experiences there. The MP concluded his remarks by saying that this will be a relationship that continues to go from strength to strength. After their remarks, the New Zealand delegation sang the Māori song “Tutira Mai Nga Iwi” to extend best wishes to Taiwan. Also in attendance at the meeting were New Zealand Members of Parliament Jamie Arbuckle, Greg Fleming, Hamish Campbell, Cameron Luxton, and Helen White.  

    Details
    2025-04-15
    President Lai meets delegation led by Tuvalu Deputy Prime Minister Panapasi Nelesone 
    On the afternoon of April 15, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Tuvalu Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Economic Development Panapasi Nelesone and his wife. In remarks, President Lai thanked Tuvalu for its staunch and long-term backing of Taiwan’s international participation. The president said he looks forward to our nations deepening bilateral ties in such areas as agriculture, medicine, education, and information and communications technology and working together toward greater peace, prosperity, and development in the Pacific region. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I extend a very warm welcome to Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone and Madame Corinna Ituaso Laafai as they lead this delegation to Taiwan. Our distinguished guests are the first delegation from Tuvalu that I have received at the Presidential Office this year. During my visit to Tuvalu last year, I met and exchanged views with Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone and the ministers present. I am delighted to meet you again today and thank you once again for the hospitality you accorded my delegation. The culture of Tuvalu and the warmth of its people are not easily forgotten. Tuvalu’s support for Taiwan has also touched us deeply. I want to take this opportunity to thank Tuvalu for staunchly backing Taiwan’s international participation over the past several decades. Our two countries have supported each other like family and have together made contributions in the international arena. Last Tuesday, I received the credentials of Ambassador Lily Tangisia Faavae and expressed my hope for Taiwan and Tuvalu continuing to deepen bilateral relations. This visit by Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone is an important step in that regard. Our two countries will be signing a labor cooperation agreement and an agreement concerning the recognition of training and certification of seafarers. This will expand bilateral cooperation at multiple levels and bring our relations even closer. Taiwan and Tuvalu are maritime nations and share the values of democracy and freedom. Our two countries have stood shoulder to shoulder to protect marine resources and address the challenges posed by climate change and authoritarianism, and we aspire to work toward greater peace, prosperity, and development in the Pacific region. Our nations have produced fruitful results in such areas as agriculture, medicine, education, and information and communications technology. I anticipate that, with the support of Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone and our distinguished guests, we can continue to employ a more diverse range of strategies to begin a new chapter in our diplomatic partnership. Together, we can make even greater and more concrete contributions to regional development. Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for his kind words of welcome and the warm hospitality extended to his delegation. On behalf of the government and people of Tuvalu, he conveyed their gratitude to the president and the people of Taiwan for the generous support, as well as for the enduring friendship we share. He said that Taiwan’s steadfast commitment to our bilateral relationship has been instrumental in advancing our shared values of democracy, resilience, and sustainable development. From vital development assistance to cooperation in health, education, and climate change resilience, he added, Taiwan’s contributions have made a significant impact on the lives of the people of Tuvalu.  For Taiwan’s recent generous donation of shoes for Tuvaluan primary school students, Deputy Prime Minister Nelesone expressed thanks to President Lai. He commented that these gifts, which underscore a deep commitment to the welfare of their youth, transcend mere material support; they are symbols of care, friendship, and hope for the future generations. Noting that our bilateral relationship is built on mutual respect, shared values, and a common vision for sustainable development in the Pacific, he expressed confidence that this partnership will continue to flourish and will serve as a beacon of cooperation and solidarity within our region.  The delegation also included Tuvalu Minister of Foreign Affairs, Labour, and Trade Paulson Panapa; Minister of Public Works, Infrastructure Development and Water Ampelosa Tehulu, and was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Tuvalu Ambassador Faavae.

    Details
    2025-04-10
    President Lai pens Bloomberg News article on Taiwan’s response to US reciprocal tariffs
    On April 10, an article penned by President Lai Ching-te entitled “Taiwan Has a Roadmap for Deeper US Trade Ties” was published by Bloomberg News, explaining to a global audience Taiwan’s strategy on trade with the United States, as well as how Taiwan will engage in dialogue with the aim of removing bilateral trade barriers, increasing investment between Taiwan and the US, and reducing tariffs to zero. The following is the full text of President Lai’s article: Last month, the first of Taiwan’s 66 new F-16Vs rolled off the assembly line in Greenville, South Carolina. Signed during President Donald Trump’s first term, the $8 billion deal stands as a testament to American ingenuity and leadership in advanced manufacturing. Beyond its economic impact – creating thousands of well-paying jobs across the US – it strengthens the foundations of peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.  This deal is emblematic of the close interests shared between Taiwan and the US. Our bond is forged by an unwavering belief in freedom and liberty. For decades, our two countries have stood shoulder-to-shoulder in deterring communist expansionism. Even as Beijing intensifies its air force and naval exercises in our vicinity, we remain resolute. Taiwan will always be a bastion of democracy and peace in the region. This partnership extends well beyond the security realm. Though home to just 23 million people, Taiwan has in recent years become a significant investor in America. TSMC recently announced it will raise its total investment in the US to $165 billion – an initiative that will create 40,000 construction jobs and tens of thousands more in advanced chip manufacturing and R&D. This investment will bolster the emergence of a new high-tech cluster in Arizona. Taiwan is committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation in manufacturing and innovation. As a trade-dependent economy, our long-term success is built on trade relationships that are fair, reciprocal and mutually beneficial. Encouraging Taiwanese businesses to expand their global footprint, particularly in the US, is a vital part of this strategy. Deepening commercial ties between Taiwanese and American firms is another. These core principles will guide our response to President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs. First, we will seek to restart trade negotiations with a common objective of reducing all tariffs between Taiwan and the US. While Taiwan already maintains low tariffs, with an average nominal rate of 6%, we are willing to further cut this rate to zero on the basis of reciprocity with the US. By removing the last vestiges to free and fair trade, we seek to encourage greater trade and investment flows between our two countries. Second, Taiwan will rapidly expand procurement of American goods. Over the past five years, rising demand for semiconductors and AI-related components has increased our trade surplus. In response to these market trends, Taiwan will seek to narrow the trade imbalance through the procurement of energy, agriculture and other industrial goods from the US. These efforts will create thousands of new jobs across multiple sectors.  We’ll also pursue additional arms procurements that are vital to our self-defense and contribute to peace and stability over the Taiwan Strait. During President Trump’s first term, we secured $18 billion in arms deals, including advanced fighter jets, tanks and anti-ship missiles. Future purchases, which are not reflected in trade balances, build on our economic and security partnership while being essential to Taiwan’s “Peace Through Strength” approach. Third, new investments will be made across the US. Already, Taiwanese firms support 400,000 jobs throughout all 50 states. Beyond TSMC, we also see emerging opportunities in electronics, ICT, energy and petrochemicals. We will establish a cross-agency “US Investment Team” to support bilateral trade and investment – and we hope that efforts will be reciprocated by the Trump administration. Fourth, we are committed to removing non-tariff trade barriers. Taiwan will take concrete steps to resolve persistent issues that have long impeded trade negotiations. And finally, we will strongly address US concerns over export controls and improper transshipment of low-cost goods through Taiwan. These steps form the basis of a comprehensive roadmap for how Taiwan will navigate the shifting trade landscape, transforming challenges in the Taiwan-US economic relationship into new opportunities for growth, resilience and strategic alignment. At a time of growing global uncertainty, underpinned by growing Chinese assertiveness, closer trade ties are more than sound economics; they are a critical pillar of regional security. Our approach is long-term and principled, grounded in a lasting commitment to our friendship with the US, a firm belief in the benefits of fair and reciprocal trade, and an unwavering dedication to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. We are confident that our shared economic and security interests will not only overcome turbulence in the international trade environment – they will define the future of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

    Details
    2025-04-08
    President Lai receives credentials from new Tuvalu Ambassador Lily Tangisia Faavae  
    On the morning of April 8, President Lai Ching-te received the credentials of new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tuvalu to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Lily Tangisia Faavae. In remarks, President Lai welcomed the ambassador to her new post and thanked Tuvalu for its long-term support for Taiwan’s international participation. The president also noted that joint efforts between our two countries have produced fruitful results in such areas as medicine and public health, agricultural and fisheries technology, and information and communications technology. He expressed his hope that we will continue to deepen our bilateral relations so as to generate even greater well-being for our peoples and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Pacific region. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: It is a great pleasure today to receive the credentials of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tuvalu Lily Tangisia Faavae. On behalf of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I extend my warmest welcome to you. Last year, the Republic of China (Taiwan) and Tuvalu celebrated 45 years of diplomatic relations. Prime Minister Feleti Teo visited Taiwan in May last year for the inauguration of myself and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao and again in October for our National Day celebrations. When I visited Tuvalu last December, I was warmly received by the government and people of Tuvalu, and I deeply felt that our two countries were like family. Ambassador Faavae’s posting to Taiwan demonstrates the importance Prime Minister Teo places on our ties. Widely recognized for her exceptional talent, Ambassador Faavae is an outstanding official with extensive experience in public service. Moreover, during her term as Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, she voiced support for Taiwan at the World Health Assembly. I believe that with her assistance, our two nations will further advance cooperation and exchanges. I want to thank the government of Tuvalu for long supporting Taiwan’s international participation. Furthermore, joint efforts between our two countries have produced fruitful results in such areas as medicine and public health, agricultural and fisheries technology, and information and communications technology. Last year, Prime Minister Teo and I signed a joint communiqué on advancing the comprehensive partnership between Taiwan and Tuvalu. Going forward, we will stand together in tackling the challenges we face, including climate change and expanding authoritarianism. And we will continue to deepen our bilateral relations so as to generate even greater well-being for our peoples and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Pacific region. Once again, I warmly welcome Ambassador Faavae to her new post in Taiwan. Please convey warmest regards from Taiwan to Prime Minister Teo and all of our friends in Tuvalu. I wish you all the best in work and life during your term in Taiwan. Ambassador Faavae then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great honor and privilege to meet with President Lai today as the new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tuvalu to Taiwan, and to present to him her letter of credence. She then extended, on behalf of the government and people of Tuvalu, her warmest greetings and deep respect to the president and people of Taiwan. The letter of credence, she noted, signifies the trust and confidence that her government and governor-general have placed in her to represent their nation and to foster and strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our countries. Ambassador Faavae said that our two countries have enjoyed a longstanding relationship of 45 years based on mutual respect, cooperation, and shared values. She added that we have collaborated, and continue to do so, in such fields as education, health, climate change adaptation and sea level rise mitigation, agriculture, clean energy, and internet connectivity.  Ambassador Faavae pointed out that Tuvalu remains committed to deepening ties with Taiwan and that it values people-to-people connections and our shared Austronesian heritage. She noted that the people of Tuvalu, a small developing nation, have greatly benefited from Taiwan’s advanced technical expertise and diverse financial assistance. She said she believes Tuvalu and Taiwan share a common interest and are united in our efforts and commitment to upholding democracy, peace, stability, and prosperity for our people and making the world better and safer.  Ambassador Faavae stated that as ambassador of Tuvalu to Taiwan, she pledges to work diligently and respectfully to enhance our bilateral relations, promote mutual understanding, and facilitate collaboration in areas of shared concern. The ambassador said she looks forward to collaborating closely with the Taiwan government and other stakeholders to achieve our common objectives and to continue building a more prosperous and harmonious future for our nations. In closing, she thanked President Lai for the opportunity to serve and to further the enduring friendship between our two countries.  

    Details
    2025-04-06
    President Lai delivers remarks on US tariff policy response
    On April 6, President Lai Ching-te delivered recorded remarks regarding the impact of the 32 percent tariff that the United States government recently imposed on imports from Taiwan in the name of reciprocity. In his remarks, President Lai explained that the government will adopt five response strategies, including making every effort to improve reciprocal tariff rates through negotiations, adopting a support plan for affected domestic industries, adopting medium- and long-term economic development plans, forming new “Taiwan plus the US” arrangements, and launching industry listening tours. The president emphasized that as we face this latest challenge, the government and civil society will work hand in hand, and expressed hope that all parties, both ruling and opposition, will support the measures that the Executive Yuan will take to open up a broader path for Taiwan’s economy. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: My fellow citizens, good evening. The US government recently announced higher tariffs on countries around the world in the name of reciprocity, including imposing a 32 percent tariff on imports from Taiwan. This is bound to have a major impact on our nation. Various countries have already responded, and some have even adopted retaliatory measures. Tremendous changes in the global economy are expected. Taiwan is an export-led economy, and in facing future challenges there will inevitably be difficulties, so we must proceed carefully to turn danger into safety. During this time, I want to express gratitude to all sectors of society for providing valuable opinions, which the government regards highly, and will use as a reference to make policy decisions.  However, if we calmly and carefully analyze Taiwan’s trade with the US, we find that last year Taiwan’s exports to the US were valued at US$111.4 billion, accounting for 23.4 percent of total export value, with the other 75-plus percent of products sold worldwide to countries other than the US. Of products sold to the US, competitive ICT products and electronic components accounted for 65.4 percent. This shows that Taiwan’s economy does still have considerable resilience. As long as our response strategies are appropriate, and the public and private sectors join forces, we can reduce impacts. Please do not panic. To address the reciprocal tariffs by the US, Taiwan has no plans to adopt retaliatory tariffs. There will be no change in corporate investment commitments to the US, as long as they are consistent with national interests. But we must ensure the US clearly understands Taiwan’s contributions to US economic development. More importantly, we must actively seek to understand changes in the global economic situation, strengthen Taiwan-US industry cooperation, elevate the status of Taiwan industries in global supply chains, and with safeguarding the continued development of Taiwan’s economy as our goal, adopt the following five strategies to respond. Strategy one: Make every effort to improve reciprocal tariff rates through negotiations using the following five methods:  1. Taiwan has already formed a negotiation team led by Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun (鄭麗君). The team includes members from the National Security Council, the Office of Trade Negotiations, and relevant Executive Yuan ministries and agencies, as well as academia and industry. Like the US-Mexico-Canada free trade agreement, negotiations on tariffs can start from Taiwan-US bilateral zero-tariff treatment. 2. To expand purchases from the US and thereby reduce the trade deficit, the Executive Yuan has already completed an inventory regarding large-scale procurement plans for agricultural, industrial, petroleum, and natural gas products, and the Ministry of National Defense has also proposed a military procurement list. All procurement plans will be actively pursued. 3. Expand investments in the US. Taiwan’s cumulative investment in the US already exceeds US$100 billion, creating approximately 400,000 jobs. In the future, in addition to increased investment in the US by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, other industries such as electronics, ICT, petrochemicals, and natural gas can all increase their US investments, deepening Taiwan-US industry cooperation. Taiwan’s government has helped form a “Taiwan investment in the US” team, and hopes that the US will reciprocate by forming a “US investment in Taiwan” team to bring about closer Taiwan-US trade cooperation, jointly creating a future economic golden age.  4. We must eliminate non-tariff barriers to trade. Non-tariff barriers are an indicator by which the US assesses whether a trading partner is trading fairly with the US. Therefore, we will proactively resolve longstanding non-tariff barriers so that negotiations can proceed more smoothly. 5. We must resolve two issues that have been matters of longstanding concern to the US. One regards high-tech export controls, and the other regards illegal transshipment of dumped goods, otherwise referred to as “origin washing.” Strategy two: We must adopt a plan for supporting our industries. For industries that will be affected by the tariffs, and especially traditional industries as well as micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises, we will provide timely and needed support and assistance. Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) and his administrative team recently announced a package of 20 specific measures designed to address nine areas. Moving forward, the support we provide to different industries will depend on how they are affected by the tariffs, will take into account the particular features of each industry, and will help each industry innovate, upgrade, and transform. Strategy three: We must adopt medium- and long-term economic development plans. At this point in time, our government must simultaneously adopt new strategies for economic and industrial development. This is also the fundamental path to solutions for future economic challenges. The government will proactively cooperate with friends and allies, develop a diverse range of markets, and achieve closer integration of entities in the upper, middle, and lower reaches of industrial supply chains. This course of action will make Taiwan’s industrial ecosystem more complete, and will help Taiwanese industries upgrade and transform. We must also make good use of the competitive advantages we possess in such areas as semiconductor manufacturing, integrated chip design, ICT, and smart manufacturing to build Taiwan into an AI island, and promote relevant applications for food, clothing, housing, and transportation, as well as military, security and surveillance, next-generation communications, and the medical and health and wellness industries as we advance toward a smarter, more sustainable, and more prosperous new Taiwan. Strategy four: “Taiwan plus one,” i.e., new “Taiwan plus the US” arrangements: While staying firmly rooted in Taiwan, our enterprises are expanding their global presence and marketing worldwide. This has been our national economic development strategy, and the most important aspect is maintaining a solid base here in Taiwan. We absolutely must maintain a solid footing, and cannot allow the present strife to cause us to waver. Therefore, our government will incentivize investments, carry out deregulation, and continue to improve Taiwan’s investment climate by actively resolving problems involving access to water, electricity, land, human resources, and professional talent. This will enable corporations to stay in Taiwan and continue investing here. In addition, we must also help the overseas manufacturing facilities of offshore Taiwanese businesses to make necessary adjustments to support our “Taiwan plus one” policy, in that our national economic development strategy will be adjusted as follows: to stay firmly rooted in Taiwan while expanding our global presence, strengthening US ties, and marketing worldwide. We intend to make use of the new state of supply chains to strengthen cooperation between Taiwanese and US industries, and gain further access to US markets. Strategy five: Launch industry listening tours: All industrial firms, regardless of sector or size, will be affected to some degree once the US reciprocal tariffs go into effect. The administrative teams led by myself and Premier Cho will hear out industry concerns so that we can quickly resolve problems and make sure policies meet actual needs. My fellow citizens, over the past half-century and more, Taiwan has been through two energy crises, the Asian financial crisis, the global financial crisis, and pandemics. We have been able to not only withstand one test after another, but even turn crises into opportunities. The Taiwanese economy has emerged from these crises stronger and more resilient than ever. As we face this latest challenge, the government and civil society will work hand in hand, and I hope that all parties in the legislature, both ruling and opposition, will support the measures that the Executive Yuan will take to open up a broader path for Taiwan’s economy. Let us join together and give it our all. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: 🚨BREAKING: FDA announces action to remove artificial food dyes from food and medicine in America

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    BREAKING: Sec. Kennedy and FDA Commissioner Marty Makary
    announce action to remove petroleum-based food dyes from food and medicine in America.

    MAKE AMERICA HEALTHY AGAIN!

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmbmz7UmYfs

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Anniversary Statement: De Havilland Canada DHC-8-402, 9H-LWB

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Anniversary Statement: De Havilland Canada DHC-8-402, 9H-LWB

    Runway excursion at Guernsey Airport, 23 April 2024

    The investigation into the runway excursion involving aircraft registration 9H-LWB is nearing completion.  The investigation has been comprehensive, examining operational, technical and human factors to determine if these aspects contributed to the occurrence of this Serious Incident.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 23 April 2025 Policy and education: ways to end child marriage and prevent adolescent pregnancy

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Every year, an estimated 21 million girls aged 15–19 years in low- and middle-income countries become pregnant. Adolescent pregnancy leads to higher risks of maternal and infant mortality, a greater chance of mental health problems, and constraints for educational and economic prospects, which contributes to cycles of poverty and inequality that can span across generations

    In many parts of the world, adolescents lack access to the information and resources necessary to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health (SRH). This leaves them vulnerable to unintended pregnancies; child marriage further fuels the risk.

    The World Health Organization (WHO) recently released an updated guideline for preventing early pregnancy and poor reproductive outcomes among adolescents in low- and middle-income countries, providing evidence-based normative guidance in two key areas: preventing child marriage and improving adolescents’ access to contraception. The recommendations highlight the importance of enabling laws and policies and education to achieve these goals.  

    The power of policy

    Many countries around the world have recently stepped up to make child marriage illegal. Colombia is one of these, with members of congress abolishing  a law in November 2024 that allowed marriages from the age of 14. Importantly, the new bill they introduced also includes measures to restore the rights of children and adolescents affected by underage marriages and unions, with a special emphasis on supporting indigenous people and other vulnerable communities.

    A joint effort by authorities and society is required to eradicate this practice and guarantee the protection of girls’ rights.

    Tamara Ospina / Government of Colombia’s Vice Minister of Women

     “The effective implementation of this law shows a change in the social norms that perpetuate child marriage. A joint effort by authorities and society is required to eradicate this practice and guarantee the protection of girls’ rights,” said Tamara Ospina, the Government of Colombia’s Vice Minister of Women. “It is essential to advance a campaign for cultural change that allows for the dismantling of traditional family views and promotes the participation of girls in different sectors, especially in the educational sector, to foster greater opportunities.”

    The WHO guideline recommends the formulation and implementation of such laws and policies that prevent marriage before age 18, in line with human rights standards. However, the guideline acknowledges, in agreement with the Human Right Council Resolution, that simply making child marriage illegal is not enough. Without additional support programmes, this approach could marginalize and stigmatize girls and families, and lead to more informal or unregistered marriages, unintentionally increasing the practice.

    This is why a comprehensive approach, that includes efforts to address the root causes of child marriage, such as poverty, gender inequality and access to education, is so important. The guideline also suggests the approach should also mobilize youth and adolescents, as well as political and governmental leaders, alongside religious, traditional and other influential people in the community to promote girls’ rights.

     The importance of comprehensive sexuality education

    The WHO guideline reinforces the interagency technical guidelines on sexuality education, emphasizing that comprehensive sexuality education is key to preventing adolescent pregnancy and improving contraceptive uptake. In Colombia, implementation of the law is facilitated by work led by adolescent girls to ensure that girls have access to sexuality education.

    Ángela Rosa Cervantes Bravo is a teen activist from a rural indigenous village in Colombia where she is heavily involved in an NGO called Sinumar Foundation that focuses on girls and sexuality education with the aim to prevent adolescent pregnancy in her community. Every year, the foundation organizes an entire week of speakers on sexual education. “During this time, our mothers, children in the community, and we, as young women, are guided and filled with knowledge about our bodies, contraceptive methods, and more. We sit down with boys and girls in mixed circles, talking about sexual education, violence and any other issue that might be relevant to the community,” Cervantes Bravo said.

    Discussing topics, such as adolescent pregnancy or child marriage, comes with its challenges due to the social stigma and traditional beliefs around it. “Some parents still get upset when they hear us discussing these things, but they need to understand that we are at a stage where these conversations are necessary,” she said. The experiences of Cervantes Bravo reinforce the need to engage parents and other community members in supporting adolescents, which is highlighted as another recommendation in the updated guideline.  

    Support tools for policy makers and programme managers will be rolled out to guide decision making and ensure that interventions are contextually relevant, to support the work of countries like Colombia and of NGO’s like Sinumar Foundation.

    Avni Amin, Unit Head of Rights and Equality Across the Life Course at WHO and the UN Special Programme on Human Reproduction (HRP) concludes: “While these guidelines offer a solid foundation for countries to address adolescent pregnancy and prevent child marriage, the true measure of their success lies in their implementation. It is essential that these guidelines are not only read but acted upon, integrated into national policies, and adapted to fit local contexts. Our goal is to see tangible changes on the ground that will empower young girls and protect their rights.” 

    Other countries that have taken recent measures to act on child marriage include Sierra Leone and Belize. Sierra Leone’s Prohibition of Child Marriage Act eliminated all exceptions that previously allowed marriage under 18, ensuring a strict nationwide ban. Similarly, Belize amended its Marriage Act to raise the legal marriage age from 16 to 18, without any exceptions, reinforcing its commitment to ending child marriage. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Check Point Software Reports 2025 First Quarter Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TEL AVIV, Israel, April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Check Point® Software Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ: CHKP), today announced its financial results for the quarter ended March 31st, 2025.

    First Quarter 2025 Financial Highlights:

    • Cash Flow from Operations: $421 million, a 17 percent increase year over year
    • Calculated Billings* reached $553 million, a 7 percent increase year over year
    • Remaining Performance Obligation (RPO)**: $2.4 billion, an 11 percent increase year over year
    • Total Revenues: $638 million, a 7 percent increase year over year
    • Products & Licenses Revenues: $114 million, a 14 percent increase year over year
    • Security Subscriptions Revenues: $291 million, a 10 percent increase year over year
    • GAAP Operating Income: $196 million, representing 31 percent of total revenues
    • Non-GAAP Operating Income: $259 million, representing 41 percent of total revenues
    • GAAP EPS: $1.71, a 7 percent increase year over year
    • Non-GAAP EPS: $2.21, a 9 percent increase year over year

    “The first quarter results have provided a solid foundation to expand upon as we progress through the year.  Strong demand for our Quantum Force appliances, fueled by refresh cycles and new projects delivered double-digit year-over-year growth in products and licenses revenues,” stated CEO Nadav Zafrir. “The AI-driven Infinity Platform, featuring a Hybrid Mesh Architecture, continues to resonate with customers and delivered another quarter of impressive double-digit year-over-year growth.”

    For information regarding the non-GAAP financial measures discussed in this release, as well as a reconciliation of such non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures, please see below “Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information” and “Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Information.”

    Conference Call & Video Cast Information
     Check Point will host a conference call with the investment community on April 23, 2025, at 8:30 AM ET/5:30 AM PT. To listen to the live videocast or replay, please visit the website www.checkpoint.com/ir.

    Second Quarter 2025 Investor Conference Participation Schedule

    • Barclays Americas Select Franchise Conference 2025
      May 6, 2025, London, UK – Fireside Chat & 1×1’s
    • J.P. Morgan 53rd Annual Technology, Media, and Telecom Conference
      May 13-15, 2025, Boston, MA – Fireside Chat & 1×1’s
    • Oppenheimer 26th Annual Israeli Conference
      May 18, 2025, Tel Aviv, Israel – Fireside Chat & 1×1’s
    • TD Cowen 53rd Annual TMT Conference
      May 28, 2025, NY, NY – Fireside Chat & 1×1’s
    • Jefferies Software Summit
      May 29, 2025, Newport Coast, CA – Fireside Chat &1×1’s
    • Stifel 2025 Cross Sector 1×1 Conference
      June 3, 2025, Boston, MA – 1×1’s
    • Baird 2025 Global Consumer, Technology & Services Conference
      June 4, 2025, SF, CA – 1×1’s
    • Bank of America Merrill Lynch 2025 Global Technology Conference
      June 5, 2025, SF, CA – Fireside Chat & 1×1’s
    • TD Cowen 2nd Annual Corporate Access Day
      June 17, 2025, Toronto, Canada – 1×1’s

    Members of Check Point’s management team are expected to present at these conferences and discuss the latest company strategies and initiatives. Check Point’s conference presentations are expected to be available via webcast on the company’s web site. To hear these presentations and access the most updated information please visit the company’s web site at www.checkpoint.com/ir. The schedule is subject to change.

    Follow Check Point via:
    Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/checkpointsw
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/checkpointsoftware
    Blog: http://blog.checkpoint.com
    YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/CPGlobal
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/check-point-software-technologies

    About Check Point Software Technologies Ltd.
    Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. (http://www.checkpoint.com) is a leading AI-powered, cloud-delivered cyber security platform provider protecting over 100,000 organizations worldwide. Check Point leverages the power of AI everywhere to enhance cyber security efficiency and accuracy through its Infinity Platform, with industry-leading catch rates enabling proactive threat anticipation and smarter, faster response times. The comprehensive platform includes cloud-delivered technologies consisting of Check Point Harmony to secure the workspace, Check Point CloudGuard to secure the cloud, Check Point Quantum to secure the network, and Check Point Infinity Core Services for collaborative security operations and services.

    Legal Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements generally relate to future events or our future financial or operating performance. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, expectations regarding our products and solutions, and our participation in investor conferences and other events during the second quarter of 2025. Our expectations and beliefs regarding these matters may not materialize, and actual results or events in the future are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those projected. These risks include our ability to continue to develop platform capabilities and solutions; customer acceptance and purchase of our existing solutions and new solutions; the market for IT security continuing to develop; competition from other products and services; appointments and departures of our executive officers; and general market, political, economic, and business conditions, including acts of terrorism or war. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are also subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those more fully described in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 17, 2025. The forward-looking statements in this press release are based on information available to Check Point as of the date hereof, and Check Point disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

    Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information
     In addition to reporting financial results in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, Check Point uses non-GAAP measures of operating income, net income and earnings per diluted share, which are adjustments from results based on GAAP to exclude, as applicable, stock-based compensation expenses, amortization of intangible assets and acquisition related expenses and the related tax affects. Check Point’s management believes the non-GAAP financial information provided in this release is useful to investors’ understanding and assessment of Check Point’s ongoing core operations and prospects for the future. Historically, Check Point has also publicly presented these supplemental non-GAAP financial measures to assist the investment community to see the company “through the eyes of management,” and thereby enhance understanding of its operating performance. The presentation of this non-GAAP financial information is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for results prepared in accordance with GAAP. A reconciliation of the non-GAAP financial measures discussed in this press release to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures is included with the financial statements contained in this press release. Management uses both GAAP and non-GAAP information in evaluating and operating business internally and as such has determined that it is important to provide this information to investors.

    * Calculated Billings is a measure that we defined as total revenues recognized in accordance with GAAP plus the change in Total Deferred Revenues during the period.

    ** Remaining Performance Obligation (RPO) is a measure that represents the total value of non-cancellable contracted products and/or services that are yet to be recognized as Revenue as of March 31, 2025.

    CHECK POINT SOFTWARE TECHNOLOGIES LTD.
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME
     
    (Unaudited, in millions, except per share amounts)
     
      Three Months Ended
      March 31,
      2025   2024
    Revenues:      
    Products and licenses $ 114.1   $ 100.3
    Security subscriptions   290.6     263.4
    Total revenues from products and security subscriptions   404.7     363.7
    Software updates, maintenance and services   233.1     235.1
    Total revenues   637.8     598.8
           
    Operating expenses:      
    Cost of products and licenses   23.0     19.9
    Cost of security subscriptions   21.4     16.5
    Total cost of products and security subscriptions   44.4     36.4
    Cost of Software updates and maintenance   32.1     28.7
    Amortization of technology   7.6     5.8
    Total cost of revenues   84.1     70.9
           
    Research and development   102.1     99.2
    Selling and marketing   225.4     206.2
    General and administrative   30.7     28.6
    Total operating expenses   442.3     404.9
           
    Operating income   195.5     193.9
    Financial income, net   27.3     22.6
    Income before taxes on income   222.8     216.5
    Taxes on income   31.9     32.6
    Net income $ 190.9   $ 183.9
    Basic earnings per share $ 1.77   $ 1.64
    Number of shares used in computing basic earnings per share   107.9     112.3
    Diluted earnings per share $ 1.71   $ 1.60
    Number of shares used in computing diluted earnings per share   111.4     115.2
    CHECK POINT SOFTWARE TECHNOLOGIES LTD.
    SELECTED FINANCIAL METRICS
     
    (Unaudited, in millions, except per share amounts)
     
        Three Months Ended
        March 31,
        2025   2024
             
    Revenues   $ 637.8   $ 598.8
    Non-GAAP operating income     258.6     252.0
    Non-GAAP net income     246.2     234.5
    Non-GAAP diluted earnings per share   $ 2.21   $ 2.04
    Number of shares used in computing diluted Non-GAAP earnings per share     111.4     115.2
    CHECK POINT SOFTWARE TECHNOLOGIES LTD.
    RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL INFORMATION
     
    (Unaudited, in millions, except per share amounts)
     
        Three Months Ended
        March 31,
          2025       2024  
             
    GAAP operating income   $ 195.5     $ 193.9  
    Stock-based compensation (1)     41.2       41.6  
    Amortization of intangible assets and acquisition related expenses (2) (*)     21.9       16.5  
    Non-GAAP operating income   $ 258.6     $ 252.0  
             
    GAAP net income   $ 190.9     $ 183.9  
    Stock-based compensation (1)     41.2       41.6  
    Amortization of intangible assets and acquisition related expenses (2) (*)     21.9       16.5  
    Taxes on the above items (3)     (7.8 )     (7.5 )
    Non-GAAP net income   $ 246.2     $ 234.5  
             
    GAAP diluted earnings per share   $ 1.71     $ 1.60  
    Stock-based compensation (1)     0.37       0.36  
    Amortization of intangible assets and acquisition related expenses (2) (*)     0.2       0.15  
    Taxes on the above items (3)     (0.07 )     (0.07 )
    Non-GAAP diluted earnings per share   $ 2.21     $ 2.04  
             
    Number of shares used in computing diluted Non-GAAP earnings per share     111.4       115.2  
             
    (1) Stock-based compensation:        
    Cost of products and licenses   $ 0.1     $ 0.1  
    Cost of software updates and maintenance     2.1       2.2  
    Research and development     14.7       14.7  
    Selling and marketing     14.6       15.9  
    General and administrative     9.7       8.7  
          41.2       41.6  
             
    (2) Amortization of intangible assets and acquisition related expenses (*):        
    Amortization of technology-cost of revenues     7.6       5.8  
    Research and development     1.5       1.6  
    Selling and marketing     12.8       9.1  
          21.9       16.5  

    (3) Taxes on the above items

    		     (7.8 )     (7.5 )
    Total, net   $ 55.3     $ 50.6  
     

    (*) While amortization of acquired intangible assets is excluded from the measures, the revenue of the acquired companies is reflected in the measures and the acquired assets contribute to revenue generation.

    CHECK POINT SOFTWARE TECHNOLOGIES LTD.
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET DATA

    (In millions)

    ASSETS
     
          March 31,   December 31,
          2025
    (Unaudited)    		   2024
    (Audited)
    Current assets:          
    Cash and cash equivalents     $ 450.2   $ 506.2
    Marketable securities and short-term deposits       1,012.0     865.7
    Trade receivables, net       399.7     728.8
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets       94.5     92.7
    Total current assets       1,956.4     2,193.4
               
    Long-term assets:          
    Marketable securities       1,469.8     1,411.9
    Property and equipment, net       83.0     80.8
    Deferred tax asset, net       80.6     74.7
    Goodwill and other intangible assets, net       1,877.9     1,897.1
    Other assets       90.2     96.6
    Total long-term assets       3,601.5     3,561.1
               
    Total assets     $ 5,557.9   $ 5,754.5
    LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
     
    Current liabilities:          
    Deferred revenues     $ 1,389.8     $ 1,471.3  
    Trade payables and other accrued liabilities       394.8       472.9  
    Total current liabilities       1,784.6       1,944.2  
               
    Long-term liabilities:          
    Long-term deferred revenues       525.6       529.0  
    Income tax accrual       467.4       459.6  
    Other long-term liabilities       31.8       32.3  
    Total long-term liabilities       1,024.8       1,020.9  
               
    Total liabilities       2,809.4       2,965.1  
               
    Shareholders’ equity:          
    Share capital       0.8       0.8  
    Additional paid-in capital       3,125.5       3,049.5  
    Treasury shares at cost       (14,579.6 )     (14,264.4 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive gain       (2.9 )     (10.3 )
    Retained earnings       14,204.7       14,013.8  
    Total shareholders’ equity       2,748.5       2,789.4  
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity     $ 5,557.9     $ 5,754.5  
    Total cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, and short-term deposits     $ 2,932.0     $ 2,783.8  
    CHECK POINT SOFTWARE TECHNOLOGIES LTD.
    SELECTED CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW DATA
     
    (Unaudited, in millions)
     
      Three Months Ended
      March 31,
        2025       2024  
    Cash flow from operating activities:      
    Net income $ 190.9     $ 183.9  
    Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:      
    Depreciation of property and equipment   5.2       7.3  
    Amortization of intangible assets   19.2       13.5  
    Stock-based compensation   41.2       41.6  
    Realized loss on marketable securities   0.1       –  
    Decrease in trade and other receivables, net   329.4       265.4  
    Decrease in deferred revenues, trade payables and other accrued liabilities   (142.1 )     (140.6 )
    Deferred income taxes, net   (22.8 )     (10.1 )
    Net cash provided by operating activities   421.1       361.0  
           
    Cash flow from investing activities:      
    Investment in property and equipment   (7.4 )     (6.5 )
    Net cash used in investing activities   (7.4 )     (6.5 )
           
    Cash flow from financing activities:      
    Proceeds from issuance of shares upon exercise of options   46.0       45.6  
    Purchase of treasury shares   (325.0 )     (325.0 )
    Payments related to shares withheld for taxes   (1.5 )     (1.1 )
    Net cash used in financing activities   (280.5 )     (280.5 )
           
    Unrealized gain on marketable securities, net   15.0       1.6  
           
    Increase in cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, and short-term deposits   148.2       75.6  
           
    Cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, and short-term deposits at the beginning of the period   2,783.8       2,959.7  
           
    Cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, and short-term deposits at the end of the period $ 2,932.0     $ 3,035.3  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Filmmakers’ Forum and Actors’ Master Classes: How the Weekend Went at the Moskino Cinema Park

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Last weekend, April 19 and 20, the Moskino Cinema Park hosted a filmmakers’ forum dedicated to the use of modern technologies in film production. Industry experts spoke at the forum. In addition, it was possible to take part in acting master classes and the quest “Film! Film! Film!”, as well as see the one-man show “Dog”.

    Lectures, master classes and creative evenings

    The first lecture was given by Broadcast’s Product Director Leonid Novoselov. He spoke about real-time filming technology, 3D graphics and innovative programs for implementing creative ideas. The lecture helped students of specialized universities learn a lot of new things.

    The master class by Natalia Klibanova, chief producer of the film company Amedia Production, was devoted to the topic of complex staging of filming. She worked on such projects as The Master and Margarita, Palma-2 and Psychologists. She shared stories from her own professional experience with the student filmmakers.

    “It is very nice that there are people who come to my lectures at the cinema park more than once. In general, the audience is very interested, these are either those who want to learn more about cinema or those who want to integrate into the industry. Actors who want to expand their professional opportunities often come to the lectures. And we always invite them to castings, tell them about projects. This certainly gives results. There are also those who want to reformat their activities, while remaining in cinema. For example, they were involved in advertising, but dream of moving towards TV series. We talk about the work of our company, about who we are looking for, offer internships for students. The most important thing is not to be afraid to participate in pitching, festivals, educational programs that the Moskino cinema park organizes. It is incredibly valuable that forums, lectures and master classes for aspiring filmmakers are held here,” said Natalia Klibanova.

    The artistic part of film production was the subject of a lecture by Alexandrina Trapeznikova, a teacher at the Institute of Cinema and Television (GITR). The production designer spoke about how the tools of professionals in this field have changed thanks to the advent of computer technology, as well as about drawing skills and new tasks. At a panel discussion, filmmakers Natalia Klibanova, Alexandra Trapeznikova and Leonid Novoselov discussed the latest trends in the industry, the future of cinematography and answered questions from the audience.

    The Gonzaga Theatre set hosted a creative evening with actor Lev Zulkarnaev, a participant in the projects “The Word of a Boy” and “Buratino”. The graduate of the Russian Institute of Theatre Arts – GITIS, spoke about the acting profession and interaction with the director. Many young fans gathered for his performance, took photos with the artist, asked questions and received autographs.

    “I think that such meetings are important, but only in combination with my own experience. Because in theory everything sounds one way, but in practice it is completely different. It is important that those who want to get into cinema definitely try, get their hand in, maybe make mistakes and learn from them. The Cinema Park is a professional space with good organization, where I felt very comfortable working. I starred here in the film “Buratino” on the “Provincial Towns of Europe” set, and I only have positive impressions. I have never seen such amazing scenery. I hope that I will definitely work on the Cinema Park sets again,” shared Lev Zulkarnayev.

    In addition, a master class and lecture on acting were held by the actor of the Stanislavsky Electrotheatre Nikita Makhalov and the director of the Theatre of Young Muscovites Andrey Zadubrovsky. Nikita Makhalov demonstrated professional techniques for conveying the emotional state of the hero. Andrey Zadubrovsky told the audience about the means of expressiveness of speech and plasticity, and also revealed the secret of how to play a role while remaining yourself.

    Performances, quests and film screenings

    At the Gonzaga Theatre, children and parents watched Alexey Poltavsky’s one-man show “Dog” based on the story of the same name by Georgian writer Nodar Dumbadze. The story about the struggle between good and evil, a teenager’s difficult choice and love for an abandoned animal evoked genuine feelings in the audience.

    The immersive quest “Film! Film! Film!” was held at the Uyezdny Gorod location. The participants had to go through the entire film production process – from creating a script to releasing the film, and they were helped in this by episodes played out by professional actors. In the process of creating a cinematic masterpiece, the participants were inspired by realistic decorations of suburban streets and buildings.

    Unforgettable impressions of the weekend were left by watching films for the whole family at the Moskino Kinopark cinema. Adventure lovers remembered the new Russian film Kraken. The film tells about the search for a missile submarine cruiser that disappeared during a secret mission in the Greenland Sea. In addition, viewers saw kind films about family, friendship and loyalty Batya-2. Ded and Palma-2. And the cartoon Jurassic Jungle was especially memorable for the young guests of the cinema park.

    Sobyanin told how virtual technologies simplify film shooting in MoscowThe 47th Moscow International Film Festival opened with the historical war drama “Not on the Lists”

    The Moskino cinema park is part of Sergei Sobyanin’s “Moscow – City of Cinema” project and an object of the Moscow cinema cluster, which is being developed by the capital Department of CultureThe first stage of development has already been completed here: 24 natural sites, four pavilions and six infrastructure facilities have been built, including the sets “Center of Moscow”, “Moscow in the 1940s”, “Vitebsk Station”, “Yurovo Airport”, “Cathedral Square of Moscow”, “Deaf Village”, “County Town”, “Cowboy Town”, “St. Petersburg Bar” and others.

    The Moscow Film Cluster is an infrastructure facility, services and facilities for filmmakers, which are being developed by the Moscow Government within the framework of the Moscow — City of Cinema project. Its structure includes the Moskino film park, the Gorky Film Studio (sites on Sergei Eisenstein Street and Valdaisky Proyezd), the Moskino film factory, the Moskino cinema chain, the film commission and the Moskino film platform.

    Get the latest news quickly in the official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/153022073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: BE Semiconductor Industries N.V. Announces Q1-25 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Q1-25 Revenue of € 144.1 Million and Net Income of € 31.5 Million
    Orders of € 131.9 Million Up 8.2% vs. Q4-24

    DUIVEN, The Netherlands, April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BE Semiconductor Industries N.V. (the “Company” or “Besi”) (Euronext Amsterdam: BESI; OTC markets: BESIY), a leading manufacturer of assembly equipment for the semiconductor industry, today announced its results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    Key Highlights

    • Revenue of € 144.1 million, down 6.1% vs. Q4-24 due primarily to lower shipments for high-end mobile applications. Vs. Q1-24, down 1.5% due to lower shipments for mobile and automotive applications partially offset by strong growth in hybrid bonding and other AI related computing applications
    • Orders of € 131.9 million up 8.2% vs. Q4-24 primarily due to increased bookings by Asian subcontractors for AI related data center applications. Up 3.3% vs. Q1-24 due to higher bookings for hybrid bonding and other advanced computing applications  
    • Gross margin of 63.6% decreased by 0.4 points vs. Q4-24 and 3.6 points vs. Q1-24 due primarily to a less favorable product mix and, to a lesser extent, adverse net forex influences
    • Net income of € 31.5 million decreased 46.9% vs. Q4-24 primarily due to the absence of an € 18.2 million net tax benefit recognized in Q4-24, lower revenue and higher consulting costs. Down 7.4% vs. Q1-24 primarily due to lower revenue and gross margins partially offset by an 8.9% decrease in operating expenses. Similarly, Besi’s net margin declined to 21.9% vs. 38.6% in Q4-24 and 23.2% in Q1-24
    • Ex share-based incentive compensation and tax benefits, Besi’s adjusted net income (net margin) was € 35.9 million (24.9%) in Q1-25 vs. € 43.2 million (28.2%) in Q4-24 and € 49.5 million (33.8%) in Q1-24
    • Net cash of € 159.4 million increased € 15.6 million, or 10.8%, vs. Q4-24

    Outlook   

    • Revenue expected to be flat (plus or minus 10%) vs. € 144.1 million reported in Q1-25
    • Gross margin expected to range between 62-64% vs. 63.6% realized in Q1-25
    • Operating expenses expected to decrease 0-10% vs. € 52.5 million in Q1-25
    (€ millions, except EPS) Q1-2025 Q4-2024 Δ Q1-2024 Δ
    Revenue 144.1 153.4 -6.1% 146.3 -1.5%
    Orders 131.9 121.9 +8.2% 127.7 +3.3%
    Gross Margin 63.6% 64.0% -0.4 67.2% -3.6
    Operating Income 39.3 50.6 -22.3% 40.7 -3.4%
    EBITDA 46.6 58.0 -19.7% 47.5 -1.9%
    Net Income* 31.5 59.3 -46.9% 34.0 -7.4%
    Net Margin* 21.9 38.6% -16.7 23.2% -1.3
    EPS (basic) 0.40 0.75 -46.7% 0.44 -9.1%
    EPS (diluted) 0.40 0.74 -45.9% 0.44 -9.1%
    Net Cash and Deposits 159.4 143.8 +10.8% 180.9 -11.9%

    * Excluding share-based compensation expense and an € 18.2 million net tax benefit recognized in Q4-24, Besi’s adjusted net income (net margin) would have been € 35.9 million (24.9%), € 43.2 million (28.2%) and € 49.5 million (33.8%) in Q1-25, Q4-24 and Q1-24, respectively.

    Richard W. Blickman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Besi, commented:
    “Besi reported solid first quarter results and important new advanced packaging orders in a challenging market environment. Revenue of € 144.1 million was down 1.5% versus Q1-24 due to ongoing weakness in mobile and automotive end user markets partially offset by strong revenue growth from hybrid bonding and other AI related computing applications. In contrast, orders increased 3.3% versus Q1-24 and 8.2% versus Q4-24 due primarily to increased bookings by Asian subcontractors for AI related data center applications which more than offset weakness in mobile, automotive and Chinese end user markets.

    Of note, significant progress was made on Besi’s wafer level assembly agenda this quarter as we received hybrid bonding orders from two leading memory producers for HBM 4 applications as well as follow-on orders from a leading Asian foundry for logic applications. Further, important announcements were made by two leading semiconductor producers with respect to future hybrid bonding applications such as ASICs and co packaged optics. In addition, a leading US logic manufacturer successfully began production of AI related logic devices utilizing Besi’s hybrid bonders in integrated production lines.

    Besi’s profitability in Q1-25 remained at attractive levels despite ongoing weakness in mainstream assembly markets and expanded R&D investment in next generation assembly solutions for AI applications. Net income of € 31.5 million decreased 7.4% vs. Q1-24 primarily due to lower revenue and gross margins realized partially offset by an 8.9% decrease in operating expenses. Our gross margin has trended toward the lower end of our target range over the past three quarters due primarily to a less favorable product mix, particularly with respect to high-end smartphones, and net forex headwinds beginning in the second half of 2024 from adverse movements in some of our principal transaction currencies versus the euro. In addition, cash flow generation remains very positive with net cash at quarter end increasing 10.8% vs. Q4-24 to reach € 159.4 million.

    On April 14, Applied Materials announced a 9% ownership position in Besi. Besi and Applied Materials have been successfully collaborating since 2020 to co-develop the industry’s first fully integrated equipment solution for die-based hybrid bonding. The collaboration brings together Applied’s expertise in front-end wafer and chip processing with Besi’s leadership position in bonding accuracy and speed. We view their shareholding as a strategic, long-term investment and a further validation of our wafer level assembly technology and strategy.

    Our business development this year reflects the contrasting growth trends seen in the assembly equipment market between AI and mainstream applications. The timing and trajectory of a mainstream assembly upturn is more difficult to predict now given new tariff uncertainties. However, demand for advanced packaging for AI applications remains strong given upcoming new device introductions and use cases planned in the 2026-2028 time period. We continue to assess the potential impact of tariffs on Besi’s customers, supply chain and end user markets. For Q2-25, we forecast that revenue will be flat plus or minus 10% versus Q1-25 with gross margins in a range of 62%-64%. In addition, aggregate operating expenses are forecast to decrease 0-10% versus Q1-25 primarily due to a reduction in strategic consulting costs.”

    Share Repurchase Activity
    During the quarter, Besi repurchased approximately 187,000 of its ordinary shares at an average price of € 117.95 per share for a total of € 22.1 million. Cumulatively, as of March 31, 2025, a total of € 51.4 million has been purchased under the current € 100 million share repurchase plan at an average price of € 114.64 per share. As of March 31, 2025, Besi held approximately 2.0 million shares in treasury equal to 2.5% of its shares outstanding.

    Investor and media conference call
    A conference call and webcast for investors and media will be held today at 4:00 pm CET (10:00 am EDT). To register for the conference call and/or to access the audio webcast and webinar slides, please visit www.besi.com.
    Important Dates  
    •  Annual General Meeting of Shareholders April 23, 2025
    •  Investor Day/Amsterdam June 12, 2025
    •  Publication Q2/semi-annual results July 24, 2025
    •  Publication Q3/nine-month results October 23, 2025
    •  Publication Q4/full year results February 2026
       
    Dividend Information*  
    •  Proposed ex-dividend date April 25, 2025
    •  Proposed record date April 28, 2025
    •  Proposed payment of 2024 dividend Starting May 2, 2025
       

    * Subject to approval at Besi’s AGM on April 23, 2025

    Basis of Presentation
    The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as adopted by the European Union. Reference is made to the Summary of Significant Accounting Policies to the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements as included in our 2024 Annual Report, which is available on www.besi.com.

    Contacts:
    Richard W. Blickman, President & CEO
    Andrea Kopp-Battaglia, Senior Vice President Finance      
    Claudia Vissers, Executive Secretary/IR coordinator
    Edmond Franco, VP Corporate Development/US IR coordinator
    Michael Sullivan, Investor Relations
    Tel. (31) 26 319 4500
    investor.relations@besi.com

    About Besi
    Besi is a leading manufacturer of assembly equipment supplying a broad portfolio of advanced packaging solutions to the semiconductor and electronics industries. We offer customers high levels of accuracy, reliability and throughput at a lower cost of ownership with a principal focus on wafer level and substrate assembly solutions. Customers are primarily leading semiconductor manufacturers, foundries, assembly subcontractors and electronics and industrial companies. Besi’s ordinary shares are listed on Euronext Amsterdam (symbol: BESI). Its Level 1 ADRs are listed on the OTC markets (symbol: BESIY) and its headquarters are located in Duiven, the Netherlands. For more information, please visit our website at www.besi.com.

    Caution Concerning Forward Looking Statements
    This press release contains statements about management’s future expectations, plans and prospects of our business that constitute forward-looking statements, which are found in various places throughout the press release, including, but not limited to, statements relating to expectations of orders, net sales, product shipments, expenses, timing of purchases of assembly equipment by customers, gross margins, operating results and capital expenditures. The use of words such as “anticipate”, “estimate”, “expect”, “can”, “intend”, “believes”, “may”, “plan”, “predict”, “project”, “forecast”, “will”, “would”, and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. The financial guidance set forth under the heading “Outlook” contains such forward-looking statements. While these forward-looking statements represent our judgments and expectations concerning the development of our business, a number of risks, uncertainties and other important factors could cause actual developments and results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, including any inability to maintain continued demand for our products; failure of anticipated orders to materialize or postponement or cancellation of orders, generally without charges; the volatility in the demand for semiconductors and our products and services; the extent and duration of the COVID-19 and other global pandemics and the associated adverse impacts on the global economy, financial markets, global supply chains and our operations as well as those of our customers and suppliers; failure to develop new and enhanced products and introduce them at competitive price levels; failure to adequately decrease costs and expenses as revenues decline; loss of significant customers, including through industry consolidation or the emergence of industry alliances; lengthening of the sales cycle; acts of terrorism and violence; disruption or failure of our information technology systems; consolidation activity and industry alliances in the semiconductor industry that may result in further increased customer concentration, inability to forecast demand and inventory levels for our products; the integrity of product pricing and protection of our intellectual property in foreign jurisdictions; risks, such as changes in trade regulations, conflict minerals regulations, currency fluctuations, political instability and war, associated with substantial foreign customers, suppliers and foreign manufacturing operations, particularly to the extent occurring in the Asia Pacific region where we have a substantial portion of our production facilities; potential instability in foreign capital markets; the risk of failure to successfully manage our diverse operations; any inability to attract and retain skilled personnel, including as a result of restrictions on immigration, travel or the availability of visas for skilled technology workers.

    In addition, the United States and other countries have recently levied tariffs and taxes on certain goods and could significantly increase or impose new tariffs on a broad array of goods. They have imposed, and may continue to impose, new trade restrictions and export regulations. Increased or new tariffs and additional taxes, including any retaliatory measures, trade restrictions and export regulations, could negatively impact end-user demand and customer investment in semiconductor equipment, increase Besi’s supply chain complexity and manufacturing costs, decrease margins, reduce the competitiveness of our products or restrict our ability to sell products, provide services or purchase necessary equipment and supplies. Any or all of the foregoing factor could have a material and adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition. In addition, investors should consider those additional risk factors set forth in Besi’s annual report for the year ended December 31, 2024 and other key factors that could adversely affect our businesses and financial performance contained in our filings and reports, including our statutory consolidated statements. We expressly disclaim any obligation to update or alter our forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Consolidated Statements of Operations
     
    (€ thousands, except share and per share data) Three Months Ended
    March 31,
    (unaudited)
      2025 2024
         
    Revenue 144,145 146,314
    Cost of sales 52,423 48,043
         
    Gross profit 91,722 98,271
         
    Selling, general and administrative expenses 32,958 39,641
    Research and development expenses 19,502 17,919
         
    Total operating expenses 52,460 57,560
         
    Operating income 39,262 40,711
         
    Financial expense, net 2,959 589
         
    Income before taxes 36,303 40,122
         
    Income tax expense 4,797 6,143
         
    Net income 31,506 33,979
         
    Net income per share – basic 0.40 0.44
    Net income per share – diluted 0.40 0.44
         
    Number of shares used in computing per share amounts:    
    – basic 79,228,071 77,181,326
    – diluted 1 81,522,177 82,106,146

    _____________________________
    1) The calculation of diluted income per share assumes the exercise of equity settled share based payments and the conversion of all Convertible Notes outstanding

    Consolidated Balance Sheets
     
    (€ thousands) March
    31, 2025
    (unaudited)    		 December
    31, 2024
    (audited)
    ASSETS    
         
    Cash and cash equivalents 405,736 342,319
    Deposits 280,000 330,000
    Trade receivables 170,440 181,862
    Inventories 103,836 103,285
    Other current assets 46,099 40,927
         
    Total current assets 1,006,111 998,393
         
    Property, plant and equipment 42,868 44,773
    Right of use assets 15,161 15,726
    Goodwill 45,610 46,010
    Other intangible assets 98,622 96,677
    Deferred tax assets 29,240 31,567
    Other non-current assets 1,347 1,330
         
    Total non-current assets 232,848 236,083
         
    Total assets 1,238,959 1,234,476
         
         
         
    Bank overdraft 840 776
    Current portion of long-term debt – 2,042
    Trade payables 46,598 52,630
    Other current liabilities 111,170 111,531
         
    Total current liabilities 158,608 166,979
         
    Long-term debt 525,493 525,653
    Lease liabilities 11,770 12,350
    Deferred tax liabilities 10,416 10,320
    Other non-current liabilities 19,328 17,910
         
    Total non-current liabilities 567,007 566,233
         
    Total equity 513,344 501,264
         
    Total liabilities and equity 1,238,959 1,234,476
    Consolidated Cash Flow Statements
     
    (€ thousands) Three Months Ended March 31,
    (unaudited)
    		  
      2025   2024  
         
    Cash flows from operating activities:    
         
    Income before income tax 36,303   40,122  
         
    Depreciation and amortization 7,307   6,813  
    Share based payment expense 4,441   16,900  
    Financial expense, net 2,959   589  
         
    Changes in working capital (2,113 ) (3,251 )
    Interest (paid) received (2,887 ) 1,169  
    Income tax (paid) received (1,575 ) (2,089 )
         
    Net cash provided by operating activities 44,435   60,253  
         
    Cash flows from investing activities:    
    Capital expenditures (1,733 ) (5,650 )
    Capitalized development expenses (6,737 ) (4,663 )
    Repayments of (investments in) deposits 50,000   10,000  
         
    Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 41,530   (313 )
         
    Cash flows from financing activities:    
    Proceeds from bank lines of credit 64   –  
    Payments of lease liabilities (1,114 ) (1,043 )
    Purchase of treasury shares (22,064 ) (14,779 )
         
    Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (23,114 ) (15,822 )
         
    Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 62,851   44,118  
    Effect of changes in exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents 566   (542 )
    Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the period 342,319   188,477  
         
    Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period 405,736   232,053  
    Supplemental Information (unaudited)
    (€ millions, unless stated otherwise)
     
    REVENUE Q1-2025 Q4-2024 Q3-2024 Q2-2024 Q1-2024
                         
    Per geography:                    
    China 40.5   28 % 42.8   28 % 45.5   29 % 57.5   38 % 58.5   40 %
    Asia Pacific (excl. China) 56.3   39 % 53.5   35 % 51.6   33 % 54.1   36 % 43.6   30 %
    EU / USA / Other 47.3   33 % 57.1   37 % 59.5   38 % 39.6   26 % 44.2   30 %
                         
    Total 144.1   100 % 153.4   100 % 156.6   100 % 151.2   100 % 146.3   100 %
                         
    ORDERS Q1-2025 Q4-2024 Q3-2024 Q2-2024 Q1-2024
                         
    Per geography:                    
    China 39.7   30 % 40.4   33 % 45.4   30 % 43.3   23 % 51.1   40 %
    Asia Pacific (excl. China) 51.7   39 % 38.8   32 % 69.3   46 % 72.0   39 % 45.0   35 %
    EU / USA / Other 40.5   31 % 42.7   35 % 37.1   24 % 69.9   38 % 31.6   25 %
                         
    Total 131.9   100 % 121.9   100 % 151.8   100 % 185.2   100 % 127.7   100 %
                         
    Per customer type:                    
    IDM 48.1   36 % 61.2   50 % 84.5   56 % 122.4   66 % 53.5   42 %
    Foundries/Subcontractors 83.8   64 % 60.7   50 % 67.3   44 % 62.8   34 % 74.2   58 %
                         
    Total 131.9   100 % 121.9   100 % 151.8   100 % 185.2   100 % 127.7   100 %
                         
    HEADCOUNT Mar 31, 2025 Dec 31, 2024 Sep 30, 2024 Jun 30, 2024 Mar 31, 2024
                         
    Fixed staff (FTE) 1,820   88 % 1,812   93 % 1,807   87 % 1,783   86 % 1,760   88 %
    Temporary staff (FTE) 251   12 % 134   7 % 271   13 % 279   14 % 236   12 %
                         
    Total 2,071   100 % 1,946   100 % 2,078   100 % 2,062   100 % 1,996   100 %
                         
    OTHER FINANCIAL DATA Q1-2025 Q4-2024 Q3-2024 Q2-2024 Q1-2024
                         
    Gross profit 91.7   63.6 % 98.2   64.0 % 101.2   64.7 % 98.3   65.0 % 98.3   67.2 %
                         
                         
    Selling, general and admin expenses:                    
    As reported 33.0   22.9 % 28.6   18.6 % 27.3   17.4 % 30.5   20.2 % 39.6   27.1 %
    Share-based compensation expense (4.4 ) -3.1 % (2.9 ) -1.8 % (3.4 ) -2.1 % (6.9 ) -4.6 % (16.9 ) -11.6 %
                         
    SG&A expenses as adjusted 28.6   19.8 % 25.7   16.8 % 23.9   15.3 % 23.6   15.6 % 22.7   15.5 %
                         
                         
    Research and development expenses:                    
    As reported 19.5   13.5 % 19.0   12.4 % 18.9   12.1 % 18.5   12.2 % 17.9   12.2 %
    Capitalization of R&D charges 6.7   4.6 % 5.4   3.5 % 4.4   2.8 % 4.9   3.2 % 4.7   3.2 %
    Amortization of intangibles (3.7 ) -2.5 % (3.9 ) -2.5 % (3.9 ) -2.5 % (3.6 ) -2.3 % (3.6 ) -2.4 %
                         
    R&D expenses as adjusted 22.5   15.6 % 20.5   13.4 % 19.4   12.4 % 19.8   13.1 % 19.0   13.0 %
                         
                         
    Financial expense (income), net:                    
    Interest income (5.0 )   (5.1 )   (5.2 )   (3.0 )   (4.0 )  
    Interest expense 6.3     6.1     5.7     2.1     2.8    
    Net cost of hedging 1.8     2.0     1.9     1.4     1.6    
    Foreign exchange effects, net (0.1 )   0.9     (0.8 )   0.5     0.2    
                         
    Total 3.0     3.9     1.6     1.0     0.6    
                         
                         
    Operating income (as % of net sales) 39.3   27.2 % 50.6   33.0 % 55.1   35.2 % 49.3   32.6 % 40.7   27.8 %
                         
    EBITDA (as % of net sales) 46.6   32.3 % 58.0   37.8 % 62.4   39.8 % 56.2   37.2 % 47.5   32.5 %
                         
    Net income (as % of net sales) 31.5   21.9 % 59.3   38.6 % 46.8   29.9 % 41.9   27.7 % 34.0   23.2 %
                         
    Effective tax rate 13.2 %   -27.0 %   12.6 %   13.0 %   15.3 %  
                         
                         
    Income per share                    
    Basic 0.40     0.75     0.59     0.53     0.44    
    Diluted 0.40     0.74     0.59     0.53     0.44    
                         
    Average shares outstanding (basic) 79,228,071   79,402,192   79,630,787   79,281,533   77,181,326  
                         
    Shares repurchased                    
    Amount 22.1     22.4     27.8     14.8     14.8    
    Number of shares 186,869   198,450   230,807   105,042   101,049  
                         
                         
    Gross cash 685.7     672.3     637.4     257.2     447.1    
                         
    Net cash 159.4     143.8     110.7     74.4     180.9    
                         

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  • MIL-OSI: Nykredit extends the offer period concerning the recommended, voluntary public tender offer for Spar Nord Bank A/S until 20 May 2025 – Nykredit Realkredit A/S

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS PUBLISHED PURSUANT TO SECTIONS 9(3)-(5) AND SECTION 21(3) OF EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 636 OF 15 MAY 2020

    NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR TO ANY JURISDICTION WHERE DOING SO WOULD CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF THE RELEVANT LAWS OR REGULATIONS OF SUCH JURISDICTION

    Publication of supplement concerning extension of offer period for Nykredit’s recommended, voluntary public tender offer for Spar Nord Bank A/S until 20 May 2025

    23 April 2025

    Nykredit extends the offer period concerning the recommended, voluntary public tender offer for Spar Nord Bank A/S until 20 May 2025

    In accordance with section 4(1) of the Danish Takeover Order1, Nykredit Realkredit A/S (“Nykredit”) announced on 10 December 2024 that Nykredit intended to submit a voluntary public tender offer (the “Offer”) to acquire all shares in Spar Nord Bank A/S (“Spar Nord Bank”), with the exception of Spar Nord Bank’s treasury shares, for a cash price of DKK 210 per share, valuing the aggregated issued share capital of Spar Nord Bank at DKK 24.7 billion. As stated in the supplement dated April 2, 2025, the offer price has subsequently been increased to DKK 210.50 per share.

    On 8 January 2025, Nykredit published the offer document regarding the Offer (the “Offer Document”), as approved by the Danish FSA in accordance with section 11 of the Danish Takeover Order. In the Offer Document, the offer period was set to expire on 19 February 2025 at 23:59 (CET) (the “Initial Offer Period”). The Initial Offer Period was subsequently extended in supplements dated 18 February, 19 March and, most recently, 2 April 2025, where the offer period was extended to 24 April 2025 at 23:59 (CEST).

    Today, Nykredit published a supplement (the “Supplement”) to the Offer Document, which further extends the offer period for the Offer. The Supplement has been approved by the Danish FSA on 23 April 2025 in accordance with section 9(3)-(5) of the Danish Takeover Order. The Supplement should be read in conjunction with the Offer Document and the previous supplements.

    With this Supplement, Nykredit further extends the offer period, such that the Offer will expire on 20 May 2025 at 23:59 (CEST). Subsequently, any reference to the “Offer Period” in the Offer Document or other documents relating to the Offer will refer to the period commencing on the day of publication of the Offer Document on 8 January 2025 and ending on 20 May 2025 at 23:59 (CEST) (the “Extended Offer Period”).

    Nykredit has been informed by the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority that Nykredit’s merger notification regarding the Nykredit’s acquisition of sole control over Spar Nord Bank is considered complete as of 31 March 2025. Nykredit awaits the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority’s decision.

    The purpose of the extension is to provide Nykredit with time to obtain the approval from the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority required to complete the Offer. If the approval from the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority has not been granted by the expiry of the Extended Offer Period, Nykredit expects to extend the offer period further.

    The extension of the offer period entails that the expected completion of the Offer and settlement of the offer price to the Spar Nord Bank shareholders who have accepted the Offer will be extended correspondingly. Completion is subsequently expected to take place on 28 May 2025 (provided that the offer period is not extended further).

    At the time of this announcement, Nykredit holds 32.79 per cent of the shares in Spar Nord Bank.

    In the supplement dated 19 March 2025 to the Offer Document, Nykredit announced that a preliminary compilation of the acceptances that Nykredit had information about showed that, including the irrevocable undertakings, acceptances corresponding to more than 46 per cent of the share capital of Spar Nord Bank had been submitted, and that Nykredit’s ownership interest in Spar Nord Bank, together with the irrevocable undertakings and the binding acceptances submitted that Nykredit had information about, totalled more than 80 per cent of the total share capital (excluding treasury shares) of Spar Nord Bank, indicating that the 67 per cent acceptance limit stated in the Offer has been reached. The final result of the Offer will be determined on expiry of the offer period and published in accordance with section 21(3) of the Danish Takeover Order.

    Nykredit intends to delist Spar Nord Bank from trading on Nasdaq Copenhagen and complete a compulsory acquisition of the remaining Spar Nord Bank shareholders, provided that Nykredit has obtained the necessary ownership interest, and the Offer has been completed. Spar Nord Bank shareholders who have opted not to accept the Offer, should expect that Nykredit, provided that the Offer is completed, will take steps to combine Nykredit Bank A/S and Spar Nord Bank, which will result in a further increase in Nykredit’s ownership interest in Spar Nord Bank. Not later than in continuation of the combination, Nykredit thus expects to hold a sufficient ownership interest to be able to delist Spar Nord Bank from trading on Nasdaq Copenhagen and complete a compulsory acquisition of the remaining Spar Nord Bank shareholders.

    The full terms and conditions of the Offer are contained in the Offer Document as amended by the Supplement. The Offer Document and the Supplement are published in the Danish FSA’s OAM database: https://oam.finanstilsynet.dk/ and can also, with certain restrictions, be accessed at https://www.nykredit.com/kobstilbud-spar-nord/ and https://www.sparnord.dk/investor-relations/overtagelsestilbud.

    About Spar Nord Bank

    Spar Nord Bank was founded in 1824 and is now a nationwide bank with 58 branches. Spar Nord Bank offers all types of financial services, consultancy and products, focusing its business on retail customers and primarily small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the local areas in which the bank is represented. The bank is also focused on leasing operations and large corporate customers, which are both business areas handled by the head offices.

    Spar Nord Bank has historically been rooted in northern Jutland and continues to be a market leader in this region. However, in the period from 2002 to 2024, Spar Nord Bank has established and acquired branches outside northern Jutland. Over the course of the years, the bank has adjusted its branch network in an ongoing process and now has a nationwide distribution network comprising 58 branches. These 58 branches are distributed on 32 banking areas, each of which is headed by a manager reporting directly to the bank’s executive board.

    The Spar Nord Bank Group consists of two earnings entities: Spar Nord Bank’s branches and the Trading Division. As an entity, the Trading Division serves customers from Spar Nord Bank’s branches as well as large retail customers and institutional clients in the field of equities, bonds, fixed income and forex products, asset management and international transactions. Finally, under the concept Sparxpres, the bank offers consumer loans to personal customers through Sparxpres’ platform as well as debt consolidation loans and consumer financing via retail stores and gift voucher solutions via shopping centres and city associations.

    About Nykredit

    Nykredit Realkredit A/S (“Nykredit”) is a public limited company incorporated under the laws of Denmark, company reg. (CVR) no. 12 71 92 80, having its registered office at Sundkrogsgade 25, 2150 Nordhavn, Denmark. Nykredit is a mortgage credit institution and, together with its wholly-owned subsidiary Totalkredit A/S, is a market leader of the Danish mortgage credit market with a market share of some 45.2 per cent. Nykredit offers mortgage financing for private individuals and businesses.

    Nykredit is part of the Nykredit Group, which historically dates back to 1851. In addition to carrying on mortgage credit business, the Group carries on banking business through Nykredit Bank – including banking and wealth management operations – and has a total of around 4,000 employees in Denmark.

    Nykredit is owned by an association of the Nykredit Group’s customers, Forenet Kredit. Forenet Kredit owns close to 80 per cent of Nykredit’s shares. Other major shareholders are five Danish pension funds: Akademikernes Pension AP Pension, PensionDanmark, PFA and PKA.

    Nykredit is known for the advantages offered through the association. Forenet Kredit makes capital contributions to the Nykredit Group when times are good, and Nykredit has decided to pass these on to its customers.

    Since, 2017, Forenet Kredit has paid over DKK 8 billion in capital contributions to the Nykredit Group, and in the period to 2027, Forenet Kredit has provided a further DKK 7 billion.

    Questions and further information

    Any questions concerning the Offer may be directed to:

    Nykredit Bank A/S

    Company reg. (CVR) no.: 10 51 96 08

    Sundkrogsgade 25

    2150 Nordhavn
    Denmark

    Telephone: +45 7010 9000

    and

    Carnegie Investment Bank

    Filial af Carnegie Investment Bank AB (publ), Sverige

    Company reg. (CVR) no. 35 52 12 67

    Overgaden Neden Vandet 9B

    1414 Copenhagen K
    Denmark

    E-mail: annette.hansen@carnegie.dk

    For further information about the Offer, please see: https://www.nykredit.com/kobstilbud-spar-nord/.

    This announcement and the Offer Document (with supplements) are not directed at shareholders of Spar Nord Bank A/S whose participation in the Offer would require the issuance of an offer document, registration or activities other than what is required under Danish law (and, in the case of shareholders in the United States of America, Section 14(e) of, and applicable provisions of Regulation 14E promulgated under, the US Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended). The Offer is not made and will not be made, directly or indirectly, to shareholders resident in any jurisdiction in which the submission of the Offer or acceptance thereof would be in contravention of the laws of such jurisdiction. Any person coming into possession of this announcement, the Offer Document or any other document containing a reference to the Offer is expected and assumed to independently obtain all necessary information about any applicable restrictions and to observe these.

    This announcement does not constitute an offer or an invitation to purchase securities or a solicitation of an offer to purchase securities in accordance with the Offer or otherwise. The Offer will be submitted only in the form of the Offer Document (with supplements) approved by the FSA, which sets out the full terms and conditions of the Offer, including information on how to accept the Offer. The shareholders of Spar Nord Bank are advised to read the Offer Document and any related documents as they contain important information.

    Restricted jurisdictions

    The Offer is not made, and acceptance of the Offer to tender Spar Nord Bank shares is not accepted, neither directly nor indirectly, in or from any jurisdiction in which the making or acceptance of the Offer would not be in compliance with the laws of such jurisdiction or would require any registration, approval or any other measures with any regulatory authority not expressly contemplated by the Offer Document (the “Restricted Jurisdictions”). Neither the United States nor the United Kingdom is a Restricted Jurisdiction.

    Restricted Jurisdictions include, but are not limited to: Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand and South Africa.

    Persons obtaining documents or information relating to the Offer (including custodians, account holding institutions, nominees, trustees, representatives, fiduciaries or other intermediaries) should not distribute, communicate, transfer or send these in or into a Restricted Jurisdiction or use mail or any other means of communication in or into a Restricted Jurisdiction in connection with the Offer. Persons (including, but not limited to, custodians, custodian banks, nominees, trustees, representatives, fiduciaries or other intermediaries) intending to communicate this announcement, the Supplement, the Offer Document or any related document to any jurisdiction outside Denmark or the United States should inform themselves about these restrictions before taking any action. Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of the laws of such jurisdiction, including securities laws. It is the responsibility of all Persons obtaining this announcement, the Supplement, the Offer Document, earlier supplements, an acceptance form and/or other documents relating to the Offer, or into whose possession such documents otherwise come, to inform themselves about and observe all such restrictions.

    Nykredit is not responsible for ensuring that the distribution, dissemination or communication of this announcement, the Supplement or the Offer Document to shareholders outside Denmark, the United States and the United Kingdom is consistent with applicable law in any jurisdiction other than Denmark, the United States and the United Kingdom.

    Important Information for Shareholders in the United States

    The Offer concerns the shares in Spar Nord Bank, a public limited liability company incorporated and admitted to trading on a regulated market in Denmark, and is subject to the disclosure and procedural requirements of Danish law, including the Danish capital markets act and the Danish takeover order.

    The Offer is being made to shareholders in Spar Nord Bank in the United States in compliance with the applicable US tender offer rules under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (the “U.S. Exchange Act”), including Regulation 14E promulgated thereunder, subject to the relief available for a “Tier II” tender offer, and otherwise in accordance with the requirements of Danish law and practice

    Accordingly, US Spar Nord Bank shareholders should be aware that this announcement and any other documents regarding the Offer have been prepared in accordance with, and will be subject to, the disclosure and other procedural requirements, including with respect to withdrawal rights, the Offer timetable, settlement procedures and timing of payments of Danish law and practice, which may differ materially from those applicable under US domestic tender offer law and practice. In addition, the financial information contained in this announcement or the Offer Document has not been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, or derived therefrom, and may therefore differ from, or not be comparable with, financial information of US companies.

    In accordance with the laws of, and practice in, Denmark and to the extent permitted by applicable law, including Rule 14e-5 under the U.S. Exchange Act, Nykredit, Nykredit’s affiliates or any nominees or brokers of the foregoing (acting as agents, or in a similar capacity, for Nykredit or any of its affiliates, as applicable) may from time to time, and other than pursuant to the Offer, directly or indirectly, purchase, or arrange to purchase, outside of the United States, shares in Spar Nord Bank or any securities that are convertible into, exchangeable for or exercisable for such shares in Spar Nord Bank before or during the period in which the Offer remains open for acceptance. These purchases may occur either in the open market at prevailing prices or in private transactions at negotiated prices. Any information about such purchases will be announced via Nasdaq Copenhagen and relevant electronic media if, and to the extent, such announcement is required under applicable law. To the extent information about such purchases or arrangements to purchase is made public in Denmark, such information will be disclosed by means of a press release or other means reasonably calculated to inform US shareholders of Spar Nord Bank of such information.

    In addition, subject to the applicable laws of Denmark and US securities laws, including Rule 14e-5 under the U.S. Exchange Act, the financial advisers to Nykredit or their respective affiliates may also engage in ordinary course trading activities in securities of Spar Nord Bank, which may include purchases or arrangements to purchase such securities.

    It may not be possible for US shareholders to effect service of process within the United States upon Spar Nord Bank, Nykredit or any of their respective affiliates, or their respective officers or directors, some or all of which may reside outside the United States, or to enforce against any of them judgments of the United States courts predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the federal securities laws of the United States or other US law. It may not be possible to bring an action against Nykredit, Spar Nord Bank and/or their respective officers or directors (as applicable) in a non-US court for violations of US laws. Further, it may not be possible to compel Nykredit and Spar Nord Bank or their respective affiliates, as applicable, to subject themselves to the judgment of a US court. In addition, it may be difficult to enforce in Denmark original actions, or actions for the enforcement of judgments of US courts, based on the civil liability provisions of the US federal securities laws.

    The Offer, if completed, may have consequences under US federal income tax and under applicable US state and local, as well as non-US, tax laws. Each shareholder of Spar Nord Bank is urged to consult its independent professional adviser immediately regarding the tax consequences of the Offer.

    NEITHER THE U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR ANY SECURITIES COMMISSION OR OTHER REGULATORY AUTHORITY IN ANY STATE OF THE U.S. HAS APPROVED OR DECLINED TO APPROVE THE OFFER OR THIS ANNOUNCEMENT, PASSED UPON THE FAIRNESS OR MERITS OF THE OFFER OR PROVIDED AN OPINION AS TO THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT OR ANY OFFER DOCUMENT. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENCE IN THE UNITED STATES.

    1 Executive Order no. 636 of 15 May 2020

    Attachments

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