NewzIntel.com

Category: Artificial Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s economic powerhouse charts ecological path with smart tech

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

    In a wetland park in the industrial hub of Wuxi in Jiangsu Province, east China, an AI-powered system tracks bird species, among which is the critically endangered Baer’s pochard.

    Installed at a biodiversity observatory in the district of Xinwu, the system can identify species and analyze population dynamics and behavioral patterns. Since its deployment in late 2024, the system has logged more than 30,000 bird activity video records.

    “The large-scale appearance of Baer’s pochards reflects a significant improvement in the local ecosystem,” said Yin Songjiang, an official with the district’s ecology and environment bureau.

    This project offers a glimpse into how one of the nation’s economic powerhouse provinces is leveraging smart technologies to protect the environment and biodiversity.

    Jiangsu, a manufacturing heartland with a GDP of 13.7 trillion yuan (1.9 trillion U.S. dollars) in 2024, has been pioneering a new path that reconciles dense industrial development with vibrant biodiversity.

    According to the Department of Ecology and Environment of Jiangsu Province, it has been redefining environmental stewardship with AI and digital tools, making ecological governance more precise, dynamic and effective.

    TECH-DRIVEN POLLUTION CONTROL

    In Jiangning District in Nanjing, capital of Jiangsu Province, high-tech instruments track air pollutants like PM2.5 in real time.

    “Airborne pollutants cannot escape the scrutiny of our automated systems,” said Wang Xin, deputy director of the Jiangning district department of ecology and environment. “Once detected, the pollution source is automatically reported, enabling swift and targeted pollution response.”

    Official data show that Jiangsu saw 82.5 percent of its days with good air quality last year, a 4.6-percentage-point improvement year-on-year and the best record since 2013.

    Local authorities have also beefed up efforts to monitor and tackle water pollution.

    Along riverbanks in the city of Suzhou, compact monitoring outposts autonomously analyze pollutants and transmit data. Drones equipped with infrared and high-definition cameras monitor river temperatures and detect illicit wastewater discharges.

    Taihu Lake, China’s third-largest freshwater lake, reported its best water quality in three decades in 2024. A smart dredging vessel capable of removing 5,000 cubic meters of nutrient-rich silt daily has helped suppress algal blooms.

    A multilayered smart surveillance network, spanning satellite remote sensing, AI-powered hyperspectral drone imagery, and underwater sensors, tracks algae and dissolved oxygen in real time.

    SMART BIODIVERSITY MONITORING

    In Jiangsu’s biodiversity database, wildlife footage is updated in real time. A few clicks can reveal infrared footage of a Pere David’s deer — an endangered species now thriving in Yancheng, home to the world’s largest wild herd of the animal. From just 39 deer in 1986, the population there has soared to 8,216 today.

    Jiangsu’s embrace of intelligent observation tools is redefining how species are tracked and studied.

    In Nanjing’s Jiangxinzhou wetland park, 11 smart video stations help to monitor key species. Along the banks of the Yangtze River, the world’s third-longest river, night-vision laser cameras capture footage of the elusive Yangtze finless porpoise.

    Nanjing has become the first city in China where this critically endangered freshwater mammal can be observed in the downtown area. In 2024, there were more than 1,800 sightings, a figure more than double that recorded five years ago.

    According to the provincial department of ecology and environment, Jiangsu is home to 8,842 species, an extraordinary number for a heavily industrialized region.

    These efforts have yielded tangible economic returns. In 2024, Jiangsu’s ecotourism destinations welcomed 300 million visitors, generating over 16 billion yuan in direct revenues.

    The province has also passed a local regulation for biodiversity protection and plans to establish 20 AI-powered biodiversity observatories in key areas by the end of this year.

    “These smart observatories will lay a solid foundation for long-term biodiversity monitoring and scientific research,” said Wu Jun, an official with the provincial ecology and environment department.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Office of the Governor — News Release — Gov. Green Releases Intent-to-Veto List

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    Office of the Governor — News Release — Gov. Green Releases Intent-to-Veto List

    Posted on Jun 6, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom, Office of the Governor Press Releases

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI 
    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI 
     
    JOSH GREEN, M.D. 
    GOVERNOR
    KE KIAʻĀINA 
     

    GOVERNOR GREEN RELEASES INTENT-TO-VETO LIST 

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    June 6, 2025

    HONOLULU – Governor Josh Green, M.D., today informed legislative leaders and stakeholders of his intent to veto 19 bills passed during the 2025 regular session of the Hawai‘i State Legislature.

    Governor Green is not required to veto every bill indicated on the Intent-to-Veto list, but cannot veto a bill that is not included. The release of this list provides additional time to continue ongoing discussions with key stakeholders concerning implementation and impact. Due to the record-setting number of bills enrolled to the governor this legislative session, potential changes to the state’s federal funding and reduced revenue projections from the Council on Revenues, additional time to analyze bills will ensure each bill is given the nuanced, thoughtful consideration it deserves. Governor Green has until July 9 to issue final vetoes. All other bills will become law by July 9.

    “Let me be clear: of the 320 bills passed by the Legislature this session, 19 are on our Intent-to-Veto list,” said Governor Green. “Our team has completed a review of every measure and the overwhelming majority of legislation will become law. Each bill on today’s list is based on thorough legal and fiscal analysis, and as always, was guided by what will best serve the people of Hawai‘i, protect our resources and strengthen our future.”

    To date, Governor Green has signed 200 bills into law benefiting the people and ‘āina of Hawai‘i, with core themes including environmental stewardship, educational access and success, as well as public safety. These represent key focus areas so far; additional bills awaiting signature will build upon this foundation to address state priorities. The remaining 101 bills are on track to become law by July 9.

    Over 300 bills were reviewed by state departments and agencies, the Attorney General and the Governor in the last month. The Governor has until July 9 to issue final vetoes from today’s list.

    The following bills are being considered for vetoes, line-item vetoes, or reductions.

    Fiscal Bills:

    HB126: RELATING TO PROPERTY FORFEITURE

    Bill Description: Increases transparency and accountability surrounding property forfeiture. Clarifies which property is subject to forfeiture. Amends the authorized disposition of forfeited property and the proceeds thereof. Requires the Attorney General to adopt rules necessary to carry out the purpose of the Hawaiʻi Omnibus Criminal Forfeiture Act. Repeals language that requires the Hawaiʻi Omnibus Criminal Forfeiture Act to be construed liberally.

    Veto Rationale: Asset forfeiture serves as a powerful deterrent against and punishment for criminal activity. The one-year deadline to return seized property for which the owner has not been charged with a covered offense, significantly weakens the efficacy of this dual deterrent and punishment. Many covered offenses, including felonies, often involve complex investigations that extend beyond a year, rendering this bill’s one-year deadline for law enforcement to file charges unrealistic. Seized property can serve as critical evidence in investigations, and its return before an investigation’s completion would severely hamper the investigation as well as the administration of justice at large.

    HB300: RELATING TO THE STATE BUDGET

    Bill Description: Appropriates funds for the operating and capital improvement budget of the Executive Branch for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027.

    Veto Rationale: Potential shifts in federal funding, coupled with recent projections from the Hawaiʻi Council on Revenues, require the state to reevaluate its budget to ensure essential services and priorities remain supported. Specific line-item reductions based on program feasibility, stability, and sustainability will help the state enter the fiscal year with a balanced budget and sound financial plan.

    HB302: RELATING TO CANNABIS
    Bill Description: Part I: Authorizes DOH to inspect qualifying patient medical records held by the physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or hospice provider who issued a written certification for the qualifying patient. Amends and adds definitions for purposes of the medical use of cannabis law. Clarifies the conditions of use for the medical use of cannabis. For purposes of issuing written certifications, authorizes the establishment of a provider-patient relationship via telehealth and limits the maximum amount of fees that can be assessed by providers. Authorizes the sale of hemp products and accessories for the medical use of cannabis at retail dispensing locations, except in waiting rooms. Clarifies transportation requirements for certain inter-dispensary sales of cannabis and manufactured cannabis products. Part II: Establishes criminal penalties for the unlicensed operation of a medical cannabis dispensary. Part III: Authorizes expenditures from the Medical Cannabis Registry and Regulation Special Fund to fund programs for the mitigation and abatement of nuisances related to illegal cannabis and hemp products and medical cannabis dispensaries and appropriates funds from the Special Fund to the AG’s Drug Nuisance Abatement Unit for these purposes, including establishing positions. Part IV: Beginning 1/1/2028, prohibits the cultivation of cannabis without a cannabis cultivator license issued by DOH.

    Veto Rationale: This administration remains committed to Hawai‘i’s existing medical cannabis program and supports efforts to expand access to medical cannabis for any medical condition. Although this bill’s authorization of medical cannabis certifications via telehealth expands access to medical cannabis, provisions authorizing the inspection of patients’ medical records without warrant constitute a grave violation of privacy. Given that the federal government classifies cannabis as a Schedule I substance, patients’ reasonable fears of repercussions based upon information gained from inspection of their personal medical records may deter patients from participating in the medical cannabis program.

    HB496: RELATING TO MĀMAKI TEA

    Bill Description: Prohibits the use of certain words and misleading Hawaiian imagery, place names, and motifs on the label of a consumer package that contains or includes tea or dried leaves from the plant Pipturus albidus, unless 100% of the tea or dried leaves were cultivated, harvested, and dried in the state. Appropriates funds for a Measurement Standards Inspector position.

    Veto Rationale: While the intent of this measure is to ensure consumer protection and reliable Made in Hawai‘i labeling, the bill imposes overly strict labeling requirements that could harm small businesses and māmaki producers who responsibly blend leaves from multiple sources. Prohibiting the labeling of products composed of less than 100% māmaki tea as “māmaki” ignores the economic contributions of and impacts to producers who mix or process māmaki with other herbs, undermining producers who support local māmaki farmers while meeting broader demand.

    HB796: RELATING TO TAX CREDITS

    Bill Description: Requires that income tax credits existing on 12/31/2025 or established or renewed after 12/31/2025 include a five-year sunset or an annual one-third reduction, beginning with the sixth year of the credit.

    Veto Rationale: This bill would have a significant long-term impact on income tax credits across a variety of industries, including film and television, research, and renewable energy. These tax credits are critical to supporting economic development and diversification, particularly within growing and emerging sectors. Categorically sunsetting income tax credits will not only disincentivize future investors from doing business in Hawai‘i, but will destabilize existing businesses that currently rely upon these tax credits.

    HB1369: RELATING TO TAXATION 

    Bill Description: Amends and repeals certain exemptions under the general excise tax and use tax laws.

    Veto Rationale: The amendments to the general excise tax and use tax contained in this bill would impact sugarcane producers, commercial fishing vessels and securities exchanges. Removing the specific tax exemptions afforded to these entities would provide little financial benefit to the state while harming, in particular, sugarcane producers.

    SB583: RELATING TO NAMING RIGHTS

    Bill Description: Allows the naming rights of the Stadium Facility and Convention Center Facility to be leased to any public or private entity. Requires any revenues derived from advertising or marketing in or on the Stadium Facility or Convention Center Facility to be deposited into the appropriate special fund of the facility. Authorizes the display of the name of any entity that leased the naming rights to a stadium operated by the Stadium Authority on the exterior of the stadium.

    Veto Rationale: Pursuant to section 14, article III, of the Hawai‘i State Constitution, each bill may only contain one subject, which must pertain to the bill’s title. The exemption of concessions in the stadium facility and Convention Center from typical concession procurement procedures may violate section 14, article III, of the Hawai‘i State Constitution since the exemption appears to fall outside the titular scope of the bill, naming rights.

    SB589: RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY

    Bill Description: Requires the Public Utilities Commission to establish an installation goal for customer-sited distributed energy resources in the state. Requires the Public Utilities Commission to establish tariffs to achieve the installation goal and for grid services programs, microgrids and community-based renewable energy. Ensures that certain levels of compensation are provided for solar and energy storage exports from customer-sited distributed energy resources as part of grid service programs and requires the Public Utilities Commission to establish grid service compensation values. Clarifies when a person who constructs, maintains, or operates a new microgrid is not considered a public utility. Authorizes wheeling of renewable energy and requires the Public Utilities Commission to establish policies and procedures to implement wheeling and microgrid service tariffs.

    Veto Rationale: Maintaining Hawai‘i’s leadership in clean energy through established goals and initiatives remains a priority. The Public Utilities Commission has already opened or plans to open proceedings relating to microgrid services tariffs and customer-sited distributed energy resources and grid services. The mandates contained in this bill therefore risk duplication and delay of already existing efforts.

    Non-Fiscal Bills: 

    HB235: RELATING TO TRAFFIC SAFETY

    Bill Description: Requires the Department of Transportation, after the City and County of Honolulu educates the public and adjusts any systems, to expand the use of photo red light imaging detector systems and automated speed enforcement systems to locations on the North Shore of O‘ahu.

    Veto Rationale: The Department of Transportation has developed specific criteria for the selection of communities within which to implement traffic safety systems. This criteria incorporates data-driven crash, citation and traffic volume metrics, which ensure communities are chosen based on need and potential for greatest impact. Ignoring this criteria in favor of legislatively mandated location selection threatens the integrity of the photo red light imaging detector system and automated speed enforcement system programs.

    HB800: RELATING TO GOVERNMENT

    Bill Description: Provides for the transfer of certain parcels in the Liliha Civic Center area and Iwilei Fire Station area from various state agencies to the City and County of Honolulu. Provides for the transfer of the parcel of land upon which Ali‘i Tower is sited from the City and County of Honolulu to the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Exempts the lands transferred to the Department of Land and Natural Resources from the definition of public lands for purposes of Chapter 171, HRS.

    Veto Rationale: The land transfers provided in the bill would negatively impact the City and County of Honolulu, which relies upon Ali‘i Tower’s land lease revenues and office spaces. Additionally, the state would face indeterminate additional costs, as Ali‘i Tower’s age likely necessitates capital improvements and ongoing maintenance. Although the intent of this bill is to reduce the state’s reliance on private commercial office space, no analysis exists identifying the amount of office space the acquisition of Aliʻi Tower would provide the state.

    HB958: RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION

    Bill Description: Establishes safe riding behaviors for electric bicycles. Prohibits the operation of high-speed electric devices in certain locations. Establishes labeling and signage requirements for electric bicycles. Prohibits the operation of a moped or electric motorcycle in certain locations. Amends the definition of “bicycle” for purposes of county vehicular taxes. Defines “electric bicycle” in place of “low-speed electric bicycle.” Defines “electric micro-mobility device” and requires the same regulations as electric foot scooters to apply to electric micro-mobility devices. Prohibits a person under the age of 16 from operating a class 3 electric bicycle. Authorizes a person under the age of 14 to operate class 2 electric bicycles under supervision. Prohibits a person from riding a class 3 electric bicycle on a sidewalk. Authorizes a person to ride a class 1 or class 2 electric bicycle on a sidewalk under certain circumstances. Prohibits a person from operating a bicycle or electric foot scooter under the age of 18 without a helmet. Repeals the requirement that moped drivers use bicycle lanes and substitutes the term “motor-driven cycle” with the term “motor scooter.”

    Veto Rationale: While mopeds and motorcycles are exempt from the prohibition established within this bill, on “high-speed electric devices” driving on public roadways, electric cars are not exempt. Such a prohibition would likely violate the Commerce Clause and Equal Protection Clause of the United States Constitution and conflict with the administration’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

    HB1296: RELATING TO THE MAJOR DISASTER FUND

    Bill Description: Establishes timely notice and reporting requirements to the Legislature by the Governor regarding the transfer of appropriations to the Major Disaster Fund. Effective 7/1/2025. Sunsets 7/1/2026.

    Veto Rationale: The administration is committed to the transparent, efficient management of state funds. During times of emergency, flexibility and the quick release of funds is necessary to respond to rapidly changing situations. This bill disrupts the delicate balance between reporting requirements facilitating government transparency and fiscal flexibility undergirding efficient response and recovery efforts. Placing additional administrative oversight over funds expended for emergencies jeopardizes public safety.

    SB15: RELATING TO HISTORIC PRESERVATION 

    Bill Description: Amends the definition of “historic property” to require that the property is over 50 years old and meets the criteria for inclusion in the Hawaiʻi Register of Historic Places. Excludes proposed projects on existing residential property and proposed projects that are in nominally sensitive areas from the State’s Historic Preservation Program review, under certain circumstances.

    Veto Rationale: Exempting proposed projects on any existing residential property from historic preservation review fails to consider properties that have never undergone such a review and may contain historically significant artifacts or iwi kūpuna. This categorical exclusion increases the risk for desecration of iwi kūpuna and historical resources. Although Governor Green supports amending the historic preservation review process to facilitate housing production, a more nuanced approach to protecting iwi kūpuna is needed, such as that advanced in SB 1263.

    SB31: RELATING TO PROPERTY

    Bill Description: Authorizes a person who discovers a recorded discriminatory restrictive covenant to take certain actions, without liability, to invalidate the covenant. Defines discriminatory restrictive covenant.

    Veto Rationale: By enabling any person, including those without any interest in the specified real property, to record a statement that a real property’s title includes a discriminatory restrictive covenant, this bill provides a statutorily authorized mechanism for the circulation of disinformation. This disinformation has the potential to negatively affect the marketability of a property. Because the person who recorded the statement claiming a discriminatory restrictive covenant exists is waived of any liability, no recourse is available to those who suffer financial loss due to inaccurate claims concerning their property’s title.

    SB38: RELATING TO HOUSING

    Bill Description: Requires the Hawaiʻi Housing Finance and Development Corporation to provide counties with an opportunity to comment on certain housing development projects. Prohibits the legislative body of a county from imposing stricter conditions than the Hawaiʻi Housing Finance and Development Corporation, stricter area median income requirements, or a reduction in fee waivers to housing development proposals that would increase the cost of the project.

    Veto Rationale: County councils have expressed concerns that this bill hampers their ability to work with developers to modify housing projects to reflect the specific needs of their communities. While the administration supports measures intended to facilitate the production of affordable housing, further dialogue with the counties on this measure’s implementation is required.

    SB66: RELATING TO HOUSING

    Bill Description: Establishes procedures and requirements for single-family and multifamily housing project applicants to apply for an expedited permit, including requirements for completeness of expedited permit applications, duties of licensed professionals and the counties during construction, and applications for owner-builder exemptions. Takes effect 7/1/2026. Sunsets 6/30/2031.

    Veto Rationale: By allowing any qualified professional to determine a project’s impact on historical resources, this bill permits a project proponent to evaluate and determine the impact of its own projects on historical resources. This is a conflict of interest that allows for self-serving determinations, undermines the authority and purpose of regulatory agencies’ independent evaluations, and increases risk to iwi kūpuna.

    SB104: RELATING TO CORRECTIONS

    Bill Description: Beginning 7/1/2026, restricts the use of restrictive housing in state-operated and state-contracted correctional facilities, with certain specified exceptions. Establishes a restrictive housing legislative working group to develop and recommend more comprehensive laws, policies and procedures regarding restrictive housing for members of vulnerable populations by 1/8/2027. Requires the Hawaiʻi Correctional System Oversight Commission to review restrictive housing placements on an annual basis. Authorizes the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, by 12/1/2027, to implement policies and procedures recommended by the restrictive housing working group related to committed persons. Requires interim and final reports to the Legislature and Hawaiʻi Correctional System Oversight Commission.

    Veto Rationale: The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has policies in place governing the use of restrictive housing. These policies and procedures comply with National Institute of Corrections and American Correctional Association standards. Rather than improve the health and safety of those in the department’s care, the implementation of certain requirements proposed in this bill will jeopardize the safety, security and good governance of the department’s facility, negatively impacting inmates. In lieu of this measure and to address stakeholders’ concerns, the department is working with the Hawaiʻi Correctional Systems Oversight Commission to amend its policies and procedures.

    SB447: RELATING TO A DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH PILOT PROGRAM

    Bill Description: Establishes a Hiring Pilot Program within the Department of Health, which includes an amended hiring procedure for delegated position classifications, certain flexibilities regarding minimum qualifications for positions having a salary range at or below SR-10, the ability to directly hire certain individuals into a civil service position if certain conditions are met, and the authority to make certain temporary appointments at the merited civil service pay scale without step limitation. Applies to recruitments initiated before 7/1/2028. Requires annual reports to the Legislature. Sunsets 7/1/2028.

    Veto Rationale: The governor strongly supports efforts to streamline the state’s hiring process to address our workforce vacancies, especially those in our state’s public health sector. However, this bill conflicts with state civil service law, undermining the state’s merit-based civil service system. Disparities in hiring, classification and compensation throughout the state are expected to occur should this bill become law.

    SB1102: RELATING TO THE AIRCRAFT RESCUE FIRE FIGHTING UNIT

    Bill Description: Specifies the appointment processes and terms for the Fire Chief of the Hawaiʻi State Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting Unit of the Airports Division of the Department of Transportation.

    Veto Rationale: The appointment process proposed in the bill is inconsistent with the selection process for other department leadership positions. Further, due to the need to obtain legislative approval for the appointment of the Fire Chief, following the appointment process contained in this bill may delay the appointment of this critical leadership position, impacting airport operations, safety and readiness.

    # # #

    Media Contacts:  
    Erika Engle
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Governor, State of Hawai‘i
    Office: 808-586-0120
    Email: [email protected] 

    Makana McClellan
    Director of Communications
    Office of the Governor, State of Hawaiʻi
    Cell: 808-265-0083
    Email: [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: UGC Secretary-General visits US and UK

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    UGC Secretary-General visits US and UK 
         The Secretary-General of the University Grants Committee (UGC), Professor James Tang, led a delegation to visit the United States and the United Kingdom from May 25 (San Diego time) to June 6 (Birmingham time) as part of the effort to promote Hong Kong’s development into an international hub for post-secondary education.
     
         Together with the delegation comprising all eight UGC-funded universities under the aegis of the Heads of Universities Committee’s Standing Committee on Internationalisation (HUCOMSCI), Professor Tang attended the NAFSA Annual Conference and Expo 2025 held in San Diego, the United States, where he spoke at a dedicated session on the strengths of Hong Kong’s higher education sector and the opportunities presented to students from around the world. With funding support from the UGC, the HUCOMSCI also set up a Hong Kong Pavilion to showcase Hong Kong’s internationalised and diversified higher education environment that welcomes academics and students from around the world to realise their aspirations.
     
         “Over the years, with the substantial investment by the Government in higher education, the eight UGC-funded universities have continued to grow, with five ranked among the world’s top 100, six within Asia’s top 50, and four as the top most international universities in the world. Some 70 per cent of our research outputs are assessed as internationally excellent, while the most recent round of quality audits also reaffirms the quality of educational experience that our universities offer to students. Hong Kong is indeed the ideal destination for students to pursue their further studies and achieve greater success,” said Professor Tang at the session at the NAFSA Conference and Expo.
     
         For the first time, the UGC also supported the Hong Kong Teaching Excellence Alliance and the HUCOMSCI to share with the international audience on how the UGC-funded universities have grasped the immense potential brought by artificial intelligence in enhancing students’ learning experiences. This has once again demonstrated Hong Kong’s leadership in quality education through investment and innovation.
     
         Professor Tang then attended the International Higher Education Forum 2025 held on June 4 (Birmingham time) in Birmingham, the United Kingdom, to share the factors underpinning Hong Kong’s success as an international hub for post-secondary education. He stressed that academic freedom and institutional autonomy have been the cornerstones of Hong Kong’s success, while highlighting the diversified composition of Hong Kong’s academic staff. Hong Kong universities attract a strong pool of distinguished scholars with a rich repertoire of international experience, and indeed some 70 per cent of them come from outside Hong Kong.
     
         In the 2024 Policy Address, the Government announced its support for establishing the “Study in Hong Kong” brand in order to attract more meritorious students to pursue their studies in Hong Kong. Through participation in international conferences and exhibitions, Hong Kong has continued to expand its network for student mobility and research collaboration. As of November 2024, the eight UGC-funded universities have jointly signed 2 660 student exchange agreements with universities from around the world, and engaged in over 6 800 active research collaborations with other institutions. At present, around one out of four students in UGC-funded universities are from outside Hong Kong. The Government will continue to support universities to strive for further internationalisation, thereby reinforcing their global reputation and scaling new heights.
     
         During the visit, Professor Tang also met with senior management and prominent scholars from top-tier higher education institutions in the United States and the United Kingdom to exchange views on the latest developments in higher education. He also highlighted that Hong Kong’s outstanding universities have been a welcoming academic home for top scholars and talented students from around the world. As an international hub for higher education, Hong Kong’s doors are always open to all who want to realise their academic pursuits and explore the exciting opportunities offered by one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
    Issued at HKT 11:56

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 381

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL1

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 381
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1005 PM CDT Fri Jun 6 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Western and Central Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Panhandle
    The Texas Panhandle

    * Effective this Friday night and Saturday morning from 1005 PM
    until 600 AM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 3
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging winds likely with isolated significant gusts
    to 75 mph possible

    SUMMARY…Multiple intense supercells will likely continue to pose a
    threat for large to very large hail this evening into the early
    overnight hours as they move generally southeastward. The largest
    hailstones may reach up to 2-3 inches in diameter. A couple of
    tornadoes will also be possible with these supercells, especially
    along/near a surface boundary draped northwest to southeast across
    the OK/TX Panhandles into western/central OK. Otherwise, scattered
    severe/damaging winds up to 65-75 mph will likely become an
    increasing concern as thunderstorms grow upscale into a cluster
    overnight.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 65 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 35 miles south southwest of Guymon OK
    to 15 miles south southeast of Chandler OK. For a complete depiction
    of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
    WOU1).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 379…WW 380…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 3 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean
    storm motion vector 30035.

    …Gleason

    SEL1

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 381
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1005 PM CDT Fri Jun 6 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Western and Central Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Panhandle
    The Texas Panhandle

    * Effective this Friday night and Saturday morning from 1005 PM
    until 600 AM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 3
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging winds likely with isolated significant gusts
    to 75 mph possible

    SUMMARY…Multiple intense supercells will likely continue to pose a
    threat for large to very large hail this evening into the early
    overnight hours as they move generally southeastward. The largest
    hailstones may reach up to 2-3 inches in diameter. A couple of
    tornadoes will also be possible with these supercells, especially
    along/near a surface boundary draped northwest to southeast across
    the OK/TX Panhandles into western/central OK. Otherwise, scattered
    severe/damaging winds up to 65-75 mph will likely become an
    increasing concern as thunderstorms grow upscale into a cluster
    overnight.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 65 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 35 miles south southwest of Guymon OK
    to 15 miles south southeast of Chandler OK. For a complete depiction
    of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
    WOU1).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 379…WW 380…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 3 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean
    storm motion vector 30035.

    …Gleason

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW1
    WW 381 TORNADO OK TX 070305Z – 071100Z
    AXIS..65 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    35SSW GUY/GUYMON OK/ – 15SSE CQB/CHANDLER OK/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 55NM N/S /56N AMA – 45ENE OKC/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..3 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..65 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 550. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 30035.

    LAT…LON 37150174 36469672 34589672 35270174

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU1.

    Watch 381 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    High (70%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Mod (50%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (60%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (90%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: From smog to sunshine: Beijing’s decade-long clean air campaign pays off

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

    These days, Beijing resident Xie Xiaoyang frequently shares photo collages of the city’s blue skies on his WeChat Moments — a stark contrast to the smoggy environment he remembers from his student days in the Chinese capital over 10 years ago.

    “Social media was still in its infancy in China back then, with everyone eagerly sharing glimpses of their everyday routines,” Xie recalled. “Yet as autumn leaves fell and winter set in, the world outside dissolved into a murky haze. Posting enthusiasm waned, giving way to a citywide yearning for crisp blue skies.”

    Beihai Park is decorated with lanterns in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 19, 2025. (Photo by Li Menglan/Xinhua)

    Over the past decades, air pollution has persisted as a major environmental challenge for China amid its rapid urbanization and economic development. In a landmark response, the Chinese government declared war against air pollution in 2013, launching its Air Pollution Prevention and Control Action Plan (APPCAP) — a comprehensive national policy framework targeting air quality improvement — and sought to find a better balance between economic growth and environment protection.

    Following the introduction of the APPCAP, China became the first developing country in the world to impose large-scale efforts to reduce PM2.5 density, with Beijing taking the lead across Chinese cities by adopting scientific governance, institutional innovation and regional collaboration, contributing a new approach to global air pollution control. The United Nations Environment Programme has hailed the megacity’s achievements in improving air quality as the “Beijing Miracle.”

    According to the Beijing Municipal Ecology and Environment Bureau, the capital reported steady progress in air quality in 2024. The average density of PM2.5, a key indicator of air pollution, during the year was 30.5 micrograms per cubic meter of air, down 6.2 percent year on year. The number of days with good air quality reached 290, an increase of 114 days compared with 2013 and the highest number on record. Notably, the number of heavily polluted days dropped from 58 in 2013 to just two in 2024, which was a reduction of 96.6 percent.

    ARDUOUS CAMPAIGN

    At this year’s “two sessions,” Minister of Ecology and Environment Huang Runqiu presented two filter membranes collected from Beijing’s atmospheric environment monitors. The sample from 2015 exhibited a grayish-black hue, while last year’s counterpart showed a grayish-white coloration.

    “That grayish-black sample brings back memories of the days when my air purifier was working overtime,” Xie said, voicing a collective memory shared by Beijing residents who lived through the city’s smog-choked years.

    “Beijing was then facing an acute air pollution crisis, making rigorous anti-smog measures an urgent imperative,” said Li Xiang, an official of the local ecological environment protection’s law enforcement authorities.

    Building on the APPCAP, Beijing rolled out its clean air action plan from 2013 to 2017, launching a targeted campaign across four key battlefronts, including coal combustion control, vehicle emissions management, industrial pollution abatement and dust suppression.

    “All relevant municipal authorities solemnly signed responsibility pledges, vowing to secure victory in this crucial pollution control campaign,” said Xie Jinkai, director of the atmospheric environment department of the Beijing Municipal Ecology and Environment Bureau.

    This photo taken on Aug. 12, 2024 shows a view of the Shougang Park, a 3-square-kilometer industrial heritage site and a previous venue of the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, in Beijing, capital of China. (Xinhua/Zhang Chenlin)

    Beijing used to rely primarily on coal for winter heating. The first PM2.5 source analysis conducted in the capital — spanning 2012 to 2013 — identified coal combustion as one of the dominant contributors to local air pollution, said Wang Zifa, a researcher at the Institute of Atmospheric Physics under the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

    The megacity therefore made a resolute decision to launch a wide-ranging initiative to switch from coal to electricity for winter heating. Wang Yu, a senior engineer at the ecological environment bureau of Beijing’s Xicheng District who participated in the conversion project, recalled that the task was both complicated and arduous.

    Environmental protection authorities and power supply companies conducted door-to-door surveys in target neighborhoods, addressing key challenges based on residents’ actual conditions while carrying out various tasks, including upgrading external power supply facilities.

    By the end of 2015, the downtown Xicheng District became Beijing’s pioneer in achieving complete coal-free heating, a landmark transition that liberated residents from smoke-filled winters fueled by honeycomb briquettes. “Now our homes are warm and clean throughout winter. What a remarkable change,” said a longtime resident surnamed Bai who lives in the Niujie neighborhood of Xicheng District.

    Beijing also established a rigorous regulatory framework to accelerate coal reduction. The municipal government has successively implemented emissions standards for various facilities, including stationary gas turbines and boilers, setting stringent new limits on pollutants. Meanwhile, authorities have intensified their work against violations such as excessive emissions and abnormal operations of facilities. Key coal-consuming enterprises now face enhanced supervision to ensure compliance, with mandatory requirements for continuous green upgrades.

    Through coordinated actions from authorities, industries and communities, the capital’s plains achieved the fundamental status of being coal-free by the end of 2018, with coal-fired boilers virtually eliminated citywide.

    According to Wang, Beijing’s follow-up PM2.5 source studies revealed that coal combustion’s contribution to PM2.5 dropped from 22.4 percent in 2013 to just 3 percent in 2017, eliminating its status as a major pollution source. And after five years of sustained efforts, Beijing saw its average annual density of PM2.5 decrease from nearly 90 micrograms per cubic meter to 58 micrograms per cubic meter, achieving its phased goal in curbing pollution.

    PRECISION GOVERNANCE

    In 2018, Beijing launched a “1 microgram initiative” to continuously improve air quality, shifting greater focus to sectors like vehicle emissions and fugitive dust, which demand refined control measures, and striving for even single microgram-per-cubic-meter improvements.

    The year of 2021 marked a milestone in Beijing’s decade-long “blue skies” campaign, with its annual average PM2.5 concentration dropping to 33 micrograms per cubic meter — the lowest level since records began in 2013. The capital has since maintained compliant air quality standards for three consecutive years.

    “‘Beijing blue’ has gradually become our new normal,” Huang Runqiu said at a press conference.

    Thanks to aggressive renewable energy adoption and coal-replacement policies, Beijing’s energy mix has undergone a historic transformation. Its coal consumption plummeted from 21.8 million tonnes in 2012 to under 600,000 tonnes in 2024, now accounting for less than 1 percent of its total energy consumption, Yang Xiuling, director of the Beijing Municipal Development and Reform Commission, said recently.

    Furthermore, Beijing has implemented structural optimization processes in its industrial and transport sectors. The city has closed over 3,000 manufacturing or polluting enterprises and rectified more than 12,000 scattered, disorganized or polluting businesses through categorized remediation. A total of over 3 million high-pollution vehicles have been phased out.

    With its air quality having improved significantly, Beijing now faces more challenging pollution control targets that require increasingly scientific and refined measures. In 2025, the city elevated its air pollution governance to a new level of precision: its “0.1 microgram initiative.”

    This photo taken on Oct. 17, 2024 shows new energy vehicle model SU7 produced by Chinese tech firm Xiaomi displayed during the 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference in Beijing, capital of China. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao)

    “For instance, we will vigorously expand the adoption of new energy vehicles (NEVs), aiming for NEVs to comprise half of all registered vehicles by 2025,” Xie Jinkai said. “Through meticulous governance, we aim to consolidate and sustain emissions reduction achievements.”

    According to the municipal government work report this year, the number of NEVs in the city has exceeded 1 million, and the proportion of green electricity in the city’s energy mix has reached 26 percent.

    MULTI-LEVEL COOPERATION

    According to Li Xiang, an illegal sand and gravel plant in Dashiwo Town of Beijing’s Fangshan District, which borders Zhuozhou City in Hebei Province, had once caused severe fugitive dust pollution in the local area.

    “At that time, with Beijing and Hebei conducting separate law enforcement operations, the plant utilized vehicle-mounted mobile production equipment to shuttle across the provincial boundary, allowing the illegal operations to persist unchecked for an extended period,” Li said.

    Since 2015, the ecological and environmental law enforcement agencies of Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei have formally established and continuously improved a joint environmental enforcement mechanism, creating coordinated systems that involve regular consultations, joint operations and collaborative inspections to collectively combat cross-regional environmental violations.

    After three years, the plant was officially shut down through a joint enforcement operation conducted by Beijing and Hebei authorities. In 2019, the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region expanded its joint law enforcement mechanism to cover district and county levels.

    Tourists visit the Tiantan (Temple of Heaven) Park in Beijing, capital of China, June 25, 2024. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong)

    Beijing has broadened its air quality governance collaboration from a domestic level to an international level in recent years. Beyond hosting an annual international forum on clean air and climate to facilitate exchanges among environmental experts, policymakers and businesses globally, the city also took a significant step earlier this year, when the Beijing Municipal Ecology and Environment Bureau signed a memorandum of understanding with the Environment Department of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to boost air quality monitoring and management cooperation.

    Over the next three years, Beijing will share its proven expertise in air pollution control — particularly its PM2.5 monitoring and mitigation strategies — with Bangkok to support the Thai capital’s air quality improvement efforts.

    However, Xie Jinkai noted that Beijing’s current air quality improvements remain fragile, with regional pollution spikes likely to recur during unfavorable meteorological conditions.

    “Air quality improvement remains a long-term, complex and challenging mission. Beijing’s pollution control efforts will continue advancing to deeper, more precise stages,” Xie said.

    “Our shared goal is to maintain lasting blue skies and fresh air, continuously meeting the people’s growing expectations for a beautiful environment,” she added.  

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for June 7, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on June 7, 2025.

    ‘They cannot block us,’ says activist on Madleen flotilla aid ship to Gaza
    Pacific Media Watch One of the 12 activists on board the Gaza Freedom Flotilla aid vessel Madleen has posted an update on their progress, saying the mission would not be deterred by Israel’s threats to block them. In a video posted to X, Thiago Ávila said the crew, which includes high-profile Swedish climate activist Greta

    Jeremy Rose: Mister Netanyahu have you no sense of decency?
    Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific. – COMMENTARY: By Jeremy Rose The word antisemitism has become so debased that depending on who is using it I might well take it as a sign that the accused is worth listening to. When the World Criminal Court (ICC) issued a warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu’s arrest,

    Marshall Islands nuclear legacy: report highlights lack of health research
    By Giff Johnson, editor, Marshall Islands Journal, and RNZ Pacific correspondent A new report on the United States nuclear weapons testing legacy in the Marshall Islands highlights the lack of studies into important health concerns voiced by Marshallese for decades that make it impossible to have a clear understanding of the impacts of the 67

    New rules for cosmetic injectables aim to make the industry safer. Will they work?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christopher Rudge, Law lecturer, University of Sydney BearFoto/Shutterstock New guidelines to regulate Australia’s booming cosmetic procedures industry have been called “tough” and “a crackdown” in media reports this week. On Tuesday, the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) announced the new guidelines – one for procedures, the

    Keith Rankin Analysis – Equity Rights: UBI, SUI, BUI, HUI, or GUI?
    Analysis by Keith Rankin. Capitalism is in crisis, and our species’ imagination to save ourselves is sorely lacking. There are of course understandings out there, and solutions; but they are so heavily gate-kept that conversations about saving ourselves are well-nigh impossible. It remains a puzzle why those political and intellectual leaders who would most benefit

    ‘Godfather of AI’ now fears it’s unsafe. He has a plan to rein it in
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Armin Chitizadeh, Lecturer, School of Computer Science, University of Sydney fran_kie/Shutterstock This week the US Federal Bureau of Investigation revealed two men suspected of bombing a fertility clinic in California last month allegedly used artificial intelligence (AI) to obtain bomb-making instructions. The FBI did not disclose the

    John Pesutto owes Moira Deeming $2.3m, but he doesn’t have it. Can former premiers be forced to pick up the tab?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michael Legg, Professor of Law, UNSW Sydney Victorian MP Moira Deeming attracted headlines recently when news broke she’s intending to sue three former Liberal premiers, among other party figures. Why? Deeming is trying to recoup millions of dollars in legal costs after a successful defamation case. Who

    The kimono is more than an artefact and more than clothing. It is a concept artists will make their own
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sasha Grishin, Adjunct Professor of Art History, Australian National University The kimono garment, the national dress of Japan, carries within itself all of the magic and traditions of Japanese culture. The basic features of the kimono are fairly simple. It is a wrapped front garment with square

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: MediPharm Labs’ Board Continues Value Destruction for Shareholders with Sale of Hope Facility

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Complete Incompetence at the Board Level Results in Fire Sale of Treasured MediPharm Asset, the Hope Facility, to a Competitor

    Hope Facility was One of Canada’s Best Cultivation Assets Before it was Acquired by MediPharm, Grossly Mismanaged, and Ultimately Shut Down in 2024

    MediPharm Labs’ Board is Pursuing its Worst Deal Yet: A Highly Dilutive NO CASH Sale of the Remaining Company

    Apollo has a Concrete and Achievable Plan to Drive MediPharm’s Share Price from Nearly $0.06 to Over $1.00, Restoring Value to its Loyal Shareholders

    SHAREHOLDERS ARE URGED TO VOTE THE GOLD CARD “FOR” APOLLO CAPITAL’S SIX DIRECTOR NOMINEES AND NOT VOTE MEDIPHARM’s GREEN CARD

    TORONTO, June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Apollo Technology Capital Corporation (“Apollo Capital”), one of MediPharm Labs’ (“MediPharm”) largest investors, warns MediPharm shareholders that the Company’s current leadership is continuing its pursuit of value destructive M&A, with the ultimate goal of a non-cash dilutive sale of the entire company. A sale of the Company which would trigger over $5M in change of control and other payments to current management.

    “It’s a travesty for shareholders to have what is believed to be a $12M asset sold for just $4.5M, likely netting shareholders less than $4M after fees and expenses. Worse still, the acquirer will wisely use the facility to produce cannabis for export that will directly compete with MediPharm in Europe,” says Regan McGee of Apollo Capital.

    “Yesterday’s fire sale announcement makes it crystal clear that MediPharm’s Board has no actual value creation strategy, just a desire to sell off MediPharm’s assets at shareholders’ expense to keep paying themselves at 500% above market norms. Is MediPharm pursuing growth facilities as a strategy or not? Is the Napanee facility the next fire sale we will see to a competitor?” questions Regan McGee of Apollo Capital.

    Apollo expects the scaling of MediPharm’s Napanee facility to cost shareholders significantly more than what the buyer of the Hope Facility will spend to achieve real profitability. Apollo expects the scaling of MediPharm’s Napanee facility to cost between $3 million and $5 million and take 12 to 18 months to generate revenue. Apollo notes MediPharm’s management team does not have cultivation experience, which could result in millions of investment dollars needed before it provides a return, if ever.

    The Hope Facility, formerly known as CannaFarms, was built by the highly respected Laflamme family to be one of the first licensed facilities in Canada. As exceptional visionaries, the Laflamme family built a world-class facility at immense personal cost to service patients in need, including military veterans. After nearly a decade of strong operational success as a positive driver for the community, MediPharm leadership not only failed to realize the value of its acquisition, but handed its assets to a competitor for well below market value.

    This sale is a tragic outcome for MediPharm shareholders. CEO David Pidduck has sold off MediPharm’s Hope.

    Apollo Capital asks:

    • Why did the Board fail to capitalize on the value of the operational and profitable Hope Facility, as MediPharm’s competitor plans to?
    • How will the MediPharm and its shareholders pay for ill-advised investments in cultivation?
    • How will MediPharm avoid insolvency, given CEO Pidduck’s current strategy?
    • Is the Board pursuing a highly dilutive sale of the Company that will destroy remaining shareholder value?
    • In the case of such a transaction, how many millions of dollars of the shareholders’ money will go directly to the compensation of management?

    Apollo Capital has invested significant capital into MediPharm and nominated highly qualified director candidates who can drive the urgent change needed and propel share price over $1.00. For more information, see our strategic five-pillar plan at www.curemedipharm.com.

    Apollo urges shareholders to save their investments and vote the GOLD CARD by June 13, 2025. Shareholders are urged to NOT sign or return the green proxy cards sent by the Company.

    Contacts

    For Shareholders:
    Carson Proxy
    North American Toll-Free Phone: 1-800-530-5189
    Local or Text Message: 416-751-2066 (collect calls accepted)
    E: info@carsonproxy.com

    For Media:
    media@curemedipharm.com

    This solicitation is being made by and on behalf of the Concerned Shareholder, who, as of the date of this Circular, beneficially owns or controls, directly and indirectly through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Nobul Technologies Inc., 12,491,500 common shares of the Company (“Common Shares”), representing approximately 3% of the total Common Shares issued and outstanding, and not by the management of the Company (“Management”).

    Legal Disclosures
    Information in Support of Public Broadcast Exemption under Canadian Law
    In connection with the annual general and special meeting (the “Annual Meeting”) of shareholders of MediPharm, Apollo Capital has filed an amended and restated dissident information circular dated May 15, 2025 (the “Circular”), as amended and supplemented by an addendum to the Circular subsequently filed by the Concerned Stakeholder dated June 4, 2025 (the “Addendum” and together with the Circular, the “Amended Circular”), each in compliance with applicable corporate and securities laws. The Concerned Stakeholder has provided in, or incorporated by reference into, this press release the disclosure required under section 9.2(4) of NI 51-102 – Continuous Disclosure Obligations (“NI 51-102”) and the corresponding exemption under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario), and has filed the Amended Circular, available under MediPharm’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The Amended Circular contains disclosure prescribed by applicable corporate law and disclosure required under section 9.2(6) of NI 51-102 in respect of the Concerned Stakeholder’s director nominees, in accordance with corporate and securities laws applicable to public broadcast solicitations. The Amended Circular is hereby incorporated by reference into this press release and is available under MediPharm’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The registered office of the Company is 151 John Street, Barrie, Ontario, Canada L4N 2L1.
    SHAREHOLDERS OF MEDIPHARM ARE URGED TO READ THE AMENDED CIRCULAR CAREFULLY BECAUSE IT CONTAINS IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Investors and shareholders are able to obtain free copies of the Amended Circular and any amendments or supplements thereto and further proxy circulars at no charge under MediPharm’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. In addition, shareholders are also able to obtain free copies of the Amended Circular and other relevant documents by contacting the Concerned Stakeholder’s proxy solicitor, Carson Proxy Advisors Ltd. (“Carson Proxy”) at 1-800-530-5189, local (collect outside North America): 416-751-2066 or by email at info@carsonproxy.com.
    Proxies may be revoked in accordance with subsection 110(4) of the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) by a registered shareholder of Company shares: (a) by completing and signing a valid proxy bearing a later date and returning it in accordance with the instructions contained in the accompanying form of proxy; (b) by depositing an instrument in writing executed by the shareholder or by the shareholder’s attorney authorized in writing; (c) by transmitting by telephonic or electronic means a revocation that is signed by electronic signature in accordance with applicable law, as the case may be: (i) at the registered office of the Company at any time up to and including the last business day preceding the day the Annual Meeting or any adjournment or postponement of the Annual Meeting is to be held, or (ii) with the chair of the Annual Meeting on the day of the Annual Meeting or any adjournment or postponement of the Annual Meeting; or (d) in any other manner permitted by law. In addition, proxies may be revoked by a non-registered holder of Company shares at any time by written notice to the intermediary in accordance with the instructions given to the non-registered holder by its intermediary. It should be noted that revocation of proxies or voting instructions by a non-registered holder can take several days or even longer to complete and, accordingly, any such revocation should be completed well in advance of the deadline prescribed in the form of proxy or voting instruction form to ensure it is given effect in respect of the Annual Meeting.
    The costs incurred in the preparation and mailing of any circular or proxy solicitation by the Concerned Stakeholder and any other participants named herein will be borne directly and indirectly by Apollo Capital. However, to the extent permitted under applicable law, Apollo Capital intends to seek reimbursement from the Company of all expenses incurred in connection with the solicitation of proxies for the election of its director nominees at the Annual Meeting.
    This press release and any solicitation made by the Concerned Stakeholder is, or will be, as applicable, made by such parties, and not by or on behalf of the management of the Company. Proxies may be solicited by proxy circular, mail, telephone, email or other electronic means, as well as by newspaper or other media advertising and in person by managers, directors, officers and employees of the Concerned Stakeholder who will not be specifically remunerated therefor. In addition, the Concerned Stakeholder may solicit proxies by way of public broadcast, including press release, speech or publication and any other manner permitted under applicable Canadian laws, and may engage the services of one or more agents and authorize other persons to assist it in soliciting proxies on their behalf.
    Apollo Capital has entered into an agreement with Carson Proxy for solicitation and advisory services in connection with the solicitation of proxies by the Concerned Stakeholder for the Annual Meeting, for which Carson Proxy will receive a fee from Apollo Capital not to exceed $250,000, together with reimbursement for reasonable and out-of-pocket expenses. Apollo Capital has also engaged Gasthalter & Co. LP (“G&Co”) to act as communications consultant to provide the Concerned Stakeholder with certain communications, public relations and related services, for which G&Co will receive, from Apollo Capital, a minimum fee of US$75,000 in addition to a performance fee of US$250,000 in the event that the Concerned Stakeholder’s nominees make up a majority of the board of directors of MediPharm (the “Board”) following the Annual Meeting, plus excess fees, related costs and expenses. Anteris Advisors, LLC (“Anteris”) has also been retained by Apollo Capital to act as strategic consultant to provide the Concerned Stakeholder with certain activism strategy, material creation and strategic communications services, for which Anteris will receive, from Apollo Capital, a minimum fee of US$100,000 in addition to a success fee of US$100,000 in the event that one or more of the Concerned Stakeholder’s nominees are appointed or elected to the Board following the Annual Meeting or as a result of any settlement or arrangement, plus excess fees, related costs and expenses.
    No member of the Concerned Stakeholder nor any of their respective associates or affiliates has or has had any material interest, direct or indirect, in any transaction since the beginning of the Company’s last completed financial year or in any proposed transaction that has materially affected or will or would materially affect the Company or any of the Company’s affiliates. No member of the Concerned Stakeholder nor any of their respective associates or affiliates has any material interest, direct or indirect, by way of beneficial ownership of securities or otherwise, in any matter to be acted upon at the Annual Meeting, other than setting the number of directors and the election of directors to the Board.
    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward‐looking statements. All statements contained in this filing that are not clearly historical in nature or that necessarily depend on future events are forward‐looking, and the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “expect,” “estimate,” “plan,” and similar expressions are generally intended to identify forward‐looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of the Concerned Stakeholder and currently available information. They are not guarantees of future performance, involve certain risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict, and are based upon assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. All forward-looking statements contained herein are made only as of the date hereof and the Concerned Stakeholder disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that subsequently occur, or of which the Concerned Stakeholder hereafter becomes aware, except as required by applicable law.

    Hashtags: #ShareholderActivism #CorporateGovernance #InvestorProtection #Investor Alert #Investor Fraud #FinancialRegulation #CorporateCrime #FinancialCrime #HomelandSecurity #DHS #OpioidCrisis #OpioidEpidemic #OpioidLitigation #OpioidVictims #BMO #DEA #ONDCP

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese, French FMs hold phone talks on bilateral, int’l affairs

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

    BEIJING, June 6 — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a phone call on Friday with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot.

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, said Chinese President Xi Jinping and his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, held a phone call recently, reaching important consensus on strengthening strategic coordination between the two countries.

    Both sides should make preparations for the exchanges at all levels in the next stage, and China welcomes senior French representatives to the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai in 2025.

    Noting that the two sides have reached consensus on resolving economic and trade issues through dialogue and consultation, Wang stressed the need to enhance people-to-people, cultural and educational exchanges between the two countries, so as to promote the sound development of the China-France comprehensive strategic partnership and China-EU relations.

    Wang said that China and France, both upholding a tradition of independence and autonomy, should enhance strategic mutual trust and respect each other’s core interests.

    He stressed the Taiwan question is an internal affair of China concerning the country’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity, which is fundamentally different from the Ukraine issue. China attaches great importance to France’s commitment to the one-China policy, he said, adding that China believes France will turn this commitment into practice.

    Wang expressed China’s hope that France will uphold the right position and oppose NATO’s interference in Asia-Pacific affairs, emphasizing that the two countries should jointly uphold multilateralism and safeguard free trade, while opposing unilateral bullying practices.

    For his part, Barrot said Chinese Vice President Han Zheng is welcome to attend the UN Ocean Conference in France, noting that France-China relations are growing more important for today’s world in increasing uncertainty.

    France always regards China as a friend and partner, firmly adheres to the one-China policy, and looks forward to maintaining high-level exchanges and close strategic communication with China, he said.

    Strengthening people-to-people and cultural exchanges between the two sides will send a strong signal of opening up, which is of great significance at present, Barrot said, adding that France opposes trade wars and tariff wars, and is willing to continue to properly resolve economic and trade frictions through consultation.

    The two sides also exchanged views on issues concerning Ukraine, Palestine and Israel, as well as Iran’s nuclear program.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Employment campaign launched for new graduates

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

    China launched a 100-day sprint for employment campaign, calling on universities and local authorities to seize the final stretch to boost employment for the class of 2025 before students graduate, according to a circular released by the Ministry of Education on Friday.

    The campaign urges universities to create more market-oriented job opportunities and encourages institutions to promote employment support measures including job expansion subsidies and job-seeking allowances.

    University presidents are urged to increase their participation in the job expansion campaign, especially focusing on disciplines with low job placement rates.

    The notice stipulated that the leadership of universities are supposed to visit at least 100 companies and secure 100 job opportunities, while faculty leadership teams at the college and departmental levels are expected to visit an average of 10 enterprises each, including alumni-run companies and firms within relevant industries.

    Public employment services will be introduced on campuses, with assistance for universities to partner with local human resources departments to set up employment service stations. Industry associations and chambers of commerce are also encouraged to mobilize enterprise job resources, sharing job listings more widely.

    The ministry emphasized speeding up the recruitment for government-supported positions, including programs for kindergarten and K-12 teachers, civil servants and State-owned enterprises, seeking to complete all recruitment by the end of August.

    Ongoing grassroots service initiatives such as the rural doctor project and the special post teacher program, a special recruitment program implemented to address the shortage of teachers in rural areas in central and western China, will be reinforced, while community jobs specifically for college graduates will also be increased.

    Regular universities and vocational schools will be supported to develop job positions such as administrative assistants and teaching assistants, in a bid to strengthen campus services while absorbing more university graduates into the workforce.

    Guidance for students will be strengthened through vocational training. The employment partnership between 100 universities and 100 counties will focus on identifying high-quality job opportunities in top-performing counties.

    Universities are urged to accelerate the development of micro-credential programs aligned with 60 key development areas across 12 urgently needed and high-demand industrial sectors, including artificial intelligence and the low-altitude economy.

    Institutions are required to swiftly launch and begin offering these targeted programs, aiming to help graduates from fields with limited market demand acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to enhance their employment competitiveness, the circular said.

    Colleges will establish records for graduates facing difficulties, offering continuous support for those who remain unemployed after leaving school.

    Employment safety education will also be reinforced, and a crackdown on illegal and irregular employment practices in the human resources market will be carried out, the ministry said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China sees strengthened global influence in maritime arbitration: CCPIT chairman

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

    China’s international influence in maritime arbitration continues to grow steadily, with a marked increase in foreign-affairs-related cases and broader global engagement, said Ren Hongbin, chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT).

    Ren, who is also director of the China Maritime Arbitration Commission (CMAC), made the remarks during a high-level dialogue on maritime and commercial arbitration in Beijing on Friday.

    In 2024, CMAC ranked among the world’s leading maritime arbitration institutions in terms of case volume. Foreign-affairs-related disputes last year increased 55 percent from 2023 and accounted for 39 percent of CMAC’s caseload, involving parties from 40 countries and regions, according to Ren.

    China is now home to 284 arbitration institutions nationwide, which have collectively handled over 5 million cases with a combined value exceeding 9 trillion yuan (about 1.25 trillion U.S. dollars) and involving disputing parties from more than 100 countries and regions.

    Looking ahead, Ren called for innovation-driven development in arbitration services and urged institutions to actively explore the application of digital technologies, including artificial intelligence.

    Leveraging information technology will reduce costs, improve efficiency and increase transparency, boosting the credibility and competitiveness of arbitration services on the global stage, Ren said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: Draganfly Announces Additional Exercise Of Over-Allotment Option

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Saskatoon, SK., June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO) (CSE: DPRO) (FSE: 3U8A) (“Draganfly” or the “Company”), a drone solutions, and systems developer, today announced that further to the closing of the Company’s US$3.6 million underwritten public offering on May 5, 2025 (the “Offering”), Maxim Group LLC, as underwriter and sole book-running manager, has partially exercised their over-allotment option to purchase an additional 100,000 common shares at the price of US$2.09 per share for aggregate gross proceeds of US$209,000 prior to deducting underwriter discounts and commissions.

    As previously announced, Draganfly intends to use the net proceeds from the Offering for general corporate purposes, including to fund its capabilities to meet demand for its new products including growth initiatives and/or for working capital requirements including the continuing development and marketing of the Company’s core products, potential acquisitions and research and development.

    The Offering was made pursuant to an effective shelf registration statement on Form F-10, as amended, (File No. 333-271498) previously filed with and subsequently declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on July 5, 2023 and the Company’s Canadian short form base shelf prospectus dated June 30, 2023 (the “Base Shelf Prospectus”). Draganfly offered and sold the securities in the United States only. No securities were offered or sold to Canadian purchasers.

    A final prospectus supplement and accompanying Base Shelf Prospectus relating to the Offering and describing the terms thereof has been filed with the applicable securities commissions in the Canadian provinces of British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Ontario, and with the SEC in the United States and is available for free by visiting the Company’s profiles on the SEDAR+ website maintained by the Canadian Securities Administrators at www.sedarplus.ca or the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, as applicable. Copies of the final prospectus supplements and accompanying Base Shelf Prospectus relating to the Offering may be obtained by contacting Maxim Group LLC, at 300 Park Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10022, Attention: Syndicate Department, or by telephone at (212) 895-3745 or by email at syndicate@maximgrp.com.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction.

    About Draganfly

    Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO; CSE: DPRO; FSE: 3U8A) is a pioneer in drone solutions, AI-driven software, and robotics. With over 25 years of innovation, Draganfly has been at the forefront of drone technology, providing solutions for public safety, agriculture, industrial inspections, security, mapping, and surveying. The Company is committed to delivering efficient, reliable, and industry-leading technology that helps organizations save time, money, and lives.

    Media Contact
    media@draganfly.com

    Company Contact
    Email: info@draganfly.com

    Forward Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute “forward-looking statements” or “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such statements, based as they are on the current expectations of management, inherently involve numerous important risks, uncertainties and assumptions, known and unknown. In this news release, such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the intended use of proceeds of the Offering. Actual future events may differ from the anticipated events expressed in such forward-looking statements. Draganfly believes that expectations represented by forward-looking statements are reasonable, yet there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. The reader should not place undue reliance, if any, on any forward-looking statements included in this news release. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made, and Draganfly is under no obligation and disavows any intention to update publicly or revise such statements as a result of any new information, future event, circumstances or otherwise, unless required by applicable securities laws.‎ Investors are cautioned not to unduly rely on these forward-looking statements and are encouraged to read the Offering documents, as well as Draganfly’s continuous disclosure documents, including its current annual information form, as well as its audited annual consolidated financial statements which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: AI Insider Blows the Lid Off Musk’s Secret AI Operation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BALTIMORE, June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A mysterious AI complex in Memphis is now being called the most powerful system of its kind — and it wasn’t supposed to be public knowledge.

    In a newly released briefing, bestselling author and tech expert James Altucher reveals the details of a covert AI operation led by Elon Musk that, until now, has gone almost entirely unreported.

    Known as Project Colossus, the facility was built by Musk’s AI company, xAI, and is allegedly housing the highest-density AI computing power in the Western Hemisphere.

    “The AI Mothership”

    Altucher says the project has quietly surpassed every major tech firm in the race for AI dominance — including OpenAI, Microsoft, Meta, and even Nvidia.

    “Elon Musk has created the AI mothership… an innovation of such enormous proportion… that he has already surpassed all the leading AI developers.”

    He adds that the complex is powered by 200,000 high-performance AI chips — and growing.

    “Making it the most advanced AI facility known to man.”

    Buried in a Warehouse. Unleashed by Policy.

    According to Altucher, the project only became possible after a specific presidential action early in Trump’s second term.

    “In one of his FIRST acts as President… Donald Trump overturned Executive Order #14110.”

    That order had previously restricted advanced AI development in the name of safety and oversight. Its removal, Altucher says, opened the floodgates.

    Not a Tool. A Turning Point.

    Altucher warns that this isn’t just about AI doing tasks faster. This is a leap into self-operating systems that think, react, and solve.

    “AI 2.0… gives that knowledge to intelligent machines that I believe will solve our problems for us.”

    He claims a major update to Colossus — scheduled before July 1 — could mark the moment America enters a new technological era.

    About James Altucher

    James Altucher is a computer scientist, entrepreneur, and bestselling author with four decades of experience in artificial intelligence and innovation. His past work includes contributions to IBM’s Deep Blue supercomputer and the early development of AI-driven market systems. His recent briefings focus on the intersection of AI, secrecy, and national acceleration.

    Media Contact:
    Derek Warren
    Public Relations Manager
    Paradigm Press Group
    Email: dwarren@paradigmpressgroup.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: One stop shop for tech could save taxpayers £1.2 billion and overhaul how government buys digital tools

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    One stop shop for tech could save taxpayers £1.2 billion and overhaul how government buys digital tools

    A first-of-its-kind digital marketplace is being built to help shake up how the UK public sector buys technology – hoping to unlock £1.2 billion in annual savings, save time and give public servants the power to rate suppliers.

    New digital hub set to save taxpayers £1.2 billion.

    • New platform to allow public sector to rate and review tech products, helping hospitals, schools and government departments avoid costly mistakes and make smarter, faster decisions on which tech to buy
    • currently in early development, the platform is set to unlock £1.2 billion a year in savings and modernise how the public sector invests £26 billion-a-year on tech
    • the National Digital Exchange will support the government’s Plan for Change – giving the UK public sector faster access to better deals, while boosting small business involvement by 40% within 3 years

    A first-of-its-kind digital marketplace is being built to help shake up how the UK public sector buys technology – hoping to unlock £1.2 billion in annual savings, save time and give public servants the power to rate suppliers.

    By making it faster and easier to buy the right technology, the National Digital Exchange (NDX) will aim to drive forward the government’s Plan for Change – helping to deliver simpler, smarter, and more responsive public services for the people who rely on them, while ensuring better value for taxpayers.

    In a major shift, the platform hopes to allow teams across the public sector to access pre-approved tech deals at nationally negotiated prices, with an AI-powered engine that matches them with suppliers based on what they actually need – all in a matter of hours, not months.

    The platform is designed to open the market to more UK tech firms, with a target to boost small business involvement in government contracts by 40% within 3 years.

    It follows the State of Digital Government report which warned that 209 NHS secondary care organisations and 320 local councils go it alone when negotiating tech contracts, despite widely using similar tools – missing out on essential bargaining power. Only 28% of public sector leaders said their organisations were able to track and make sure that their tech suppliers were delivering proper value for their services.

    Users will be able to rate and review what they’ve bought, lifting the lid on which tools have delivered, and where promises haven’t matched performance – creating a platform comparable to an app store for the technology that underpins the British state and essential public services.

    The announcement comes ahead of London Tech Week, where the role of digital innovation in transforming public services will be in the spotlight.

    Minister for AI and Digital Government, Feryal Clark said:

    We’ve all heard the stories – months of red tape, tech that doesn’t deliver, and money wasted. That’s not good enough for the people we serve.

    The National Digital Exchange aims to change that. It will make it faster, fairer, and focused on what works – with real reviews, upfront pricing and smart AI to match buyers with the right suppliers in hours.

    It’s a clear example of our Plan for Change in action: cutting waste, boosting innovation, and backing British tech to deliver better public services.

    The platform, which will be created under the revised Procurement Regulations to help shape a smarter, more open future for digital procurement, and is being developed alongside a “digital playbook” to guide officials responsible for buying technology towards best practice – making sure the long-term impacts of their decisions, and the social value of contracts are considered.

    Today’s news also follows the government announcing plans to test new ways of funding AI and tech projects, aiming to bring a start-up mindset to testing the application and use of AI experiments on small budgets, and then building on proof of success.

    DSIT is also working closely with organisations like TechUK helping to ensure the platform reflects the needs of both buyers and suppliers.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK and India to bolster economic and migration ties as Foreign Secretary delivers on Plan for Change during visit

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK and India to bolster economic and migration ties as Foreign Secretary delivers on Plan for Change during visit

    Bolstering economic and migration ties and delivering further growth opportunities for British businesses are set to be at the top of the Foreign Secretary’s visit to India this weekend.

    • Talks with the Indian Government to deepen and diversify the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries to deliver for working people in the UK. 
    • Comes after historic Free Trade Agreement was agreed between the UK and India set to increase trade by more than £25bn every year.  
    • Foreign Secretary will meet with Prime Minister Modi on his second visit to India to discuss ongoing economic and migration partnership

    Bolstering economic and migration ties and delivering further growth opportunities for British businesses are set to be at the top of the Foreign Secretary’s visit to India this weekend.

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy will travel to New Delhi to further advance an ambitious UK-India relationship during talks with the Indian Government, including Prime Minister Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, alongside government officials.

    The visit follows the historic Free Trade Agreement signed between the two countries and will deliver on this government’s commitment to boost jobs and prosperity back in the UK, as part of the government’s Plan for Change. The new deal with India is expected to increase bilateral trade by over £25 billion every year, UK GDP by £4.8 billion, and wages by £2.2 billion each year in the long run, putting money back in the pockets of working people.

    The Foreign Secretary will also welcome progress in our migration partnership, including ongoing work on safeguarding citizens and securing borders in both countries. Addressing migration remains a top priority for the government – the Foreign Secretary is focused on working internationally with global partners to secure the UK’s borders at home.

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:  

    India was one of my first visits as Foreign Secretary, and since then has been a key partner in the delivery of our Plan for Change. Our relationship has gone from strength to strength – securing our future technologies, adding over £25bn in trade every year between our countries and deepening the strong links between our cultures and people.   

    Signing a free trade agreement is just the start of our ambitions – we’re building a modern partnership with India for a new global era. We want to go even further to foster an even closer relationship and cooperate when it comes to delivering growth, fostering innovative technology, tackling the climate crisis and delivering our migration priorities, and providing greater security for our people.

    The Foreign Secretary will also meet with leading figures in Indian business to discuss how we can unlock even greater investment by Indian business in the UK. Our investment relationship supports over 600,000 jobs across both countries, with over 950 Indian-owned companies in the UK and over 650 UK companies in India. In 2023-24, India was the UK’s second largest source of investments in terms of number of projects for the fifth consecutive year. 

    Talks will also take stock of progress, following a commitment by the UK and Indian Prime Ministers to take forward an ambitious UK-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The trade deal is a key example of the progress being made since the last meeting between the Foreign Secretary and his Indian counterpart. It follows the signing of the UK-India Programme of Cultural Cooperation Agreement in May and £400m of trade and investment wins boosting the British and the Indian economy at the Economic and Financial Dialogue in April. 

    The Foreign Secretary is also expected to address the recent escalation in tensions following the Pahalgam terrorist attack and how the welcomed sustained period of peace can be best supported in the interests of stability in the region.   

    The visit comes as some of India’s top business leaders endorsed the trade deal which will increase opportunities for trade and investment between the UK and India. It also comes ahead of the launch of the UK’s modern Industrial Strategy, which will make it quicker, easier and cheaper to do business in the UK. 

    Notes to Editors:

    • On 2 May, the UK and India signed a new UK-India Programme of Cultural Cooperation to boost collaboration across the arts and culture, creative industries, tourism and sport sectors. The agreement will open the door for increased UK creative exports to India and enable more partnerships between UK and Indian museums and cultural institutions, helping to grow UK soft power. 
    • At the 13th UK-India Economic and Financial Dialogue (EFD) in April, Chancellor Rachel Reeves welcomed £400m of trade and investment wins set to boost the British and the Indian economy and deliver economic growth and security for working people.
    • David Lammy travelled to India on his first official visit as Foreign Secretary in July last year, when he announced the landmark UK-India Technology Security Initiative. The initiative is delivering crucial collaboration on telecoms security and unlocking investment across emerging technologies – telecoms, critical minerals, AI, quantum, health/bio tech, advanced materials and semiconductors.

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 379

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL9

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 379
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    455 PM CDT Fri Jun 6 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Eastern New Mexico
    The Oklahoma Panhandle
    West/Northwest Texas and the Texas Panhandle

    * Effective this Friday afternoon and evening from 455 PM until
    1100 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes and a couple intense tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 4
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging winds and isolated significant gusts to 75
    mph possible

    SUMMARY…Multiple intense supercells will likely pose a threat for
    very large to potentially giant hail this afternoon and evening as
    they move generally east-southeastward. The largest hailstones may
    reach up to 3-4 inches in diameter. A few tornadoes will also be
    possible with any sustained supercells, mainly this evening as the
    low-level jet strengthens. Scattered severe/damaging winds with peak
    gusts up to 60-75 mph may become an increasing concern later this
    evening if thunderstorms can congeal into one or more bowing
    clusters.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 85 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 50 miles west northwest of Guymon OK to
    50 miles southeast of Hobbs NM. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU9).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 376…WW 378…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 4 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 600. Mean
    storm motion vector 28025.

    …Gleason

    SEL9

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 379
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    455 PM CDT Fri Jun 6 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Eastern New Mexico
    The Oklahoma Panhandle
    West/Northwest Texas and the Texas Panhandle

    * Effective this Friday afternoon and evening from 455 PM until
    1100 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes and a couple intense tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 4
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging winds and isolated significant gusts to 75
    mph possible

    SUMMARY…Multiple intense supercells will likely pose a threat for
    very large to potentially giant hail this afternoon and evening as
    they move generally east-southeastward. The largest hailstones may
    reach up to 3-4 inches in diameter. A few tornadoes will also be
    possible with any sustained supercells, mainly this evening as the
    low-level jet strengthens. Scattered severe/damaging winds with peak
    gusts up to 60-75 mph may become an increasing concern later this
    evening if thunderstorms can congeal into one or more bowing
    clusters.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 85 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 50 miles west northwest of Guymon OK to
    50 miles southeast of Hobbs NM. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU9).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 376…WW 378…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 4 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 600. Mean
    storm motion vector 28025.

    …Gleason

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW9
    WW 379 TORNADO NM OK TX 062155Z – 070400Z
    AXIS..85 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    50WNW GUY/GUYMON OK/ – 50SE HOB/HOBBS NM/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 75NM E/W /63ESE TBE – 24WNW MAF/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..4 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..65 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 600. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 28025.

    LAT…LON 36930080 32160116 32160407 36930388

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU9.

    Watch 379 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (50%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Mod (30%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (50%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Mod (40%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    High (70%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    High (70%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (90%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Leading The World in Supersonic Flight

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICESTHE ADMINISTRATORS OF THE CENTERS FOR MEDICAREAND MEDICAID SERVICES
    SUBJECT:       Eliminating Waste, Fraud, and Abuse in Medicaid
    My Administration has been relentlessly committed to rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse in Government programs to preserve and protect them for those who rely most on them. 
    The Medicaid program was designed to be a program to compassionately provide taxpayer dollars to healthcare providers who offer care to the most vulnerable Americans.  To keep payments reasonable, billable costs for such care were historically capped at the same level that healthcare providers could receive from Medicare.  The State and Federal Governments jointly shared this cost burden to ensure those of lesser means did not go untreated.
    Under the Biden Administration, States and healthcare providers were permitted to game the system.  For example, States “taxed” healthcare providers, but sent the same money back to them in the form of a “Medicaid payment,” which automatically unlocked for healthcare providers an additional “burden-sharing” payment from the Federal Government.  Through this gimmick, the State could avoid contributing money toward Medicaid services, meaning the State no longer had a reason to be prudent in the amount of reimbursement provided.  Instead of paying Medicare rates, many States that utilize these arrangements now pay the same healthcare providers almost three times the Medicare amount, a practice encouraged by the Biden Administration.
    These State Directed Payments have rapidly accelerated, quadrupling in magnitude over the last 4 years and reaching $110 billion in 2024 alone.  This trajectory threatens the Federal Treasury and Medicaid’s long-term stability, and the imbalance between Medicaid and Medicare patients threatens to jeopardize access to care for our seniors.
    I pledged to protect and improve these important Government healthcare programs for those that rely on them.  Seniors on Medicare and Medicaid recipients both deserve access to quality care in a system free from the fraud, waste, and abuse, that enriches the unscrupulous and jeopardizes the programs themselves.  We will take action to continue to love and cherish the Medicare and Medicaid programs to ensure they are preserved for those who need them most.
    The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall therefore take appropriate action to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicaid, including by ensuring Medicaid payments rates are not higher than Medicare, to the extent permitted by applicable law.  
    This memorandum is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
                                   DONALD J. TRUMP

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Grigorenko: Russia is ready to share its digitalization experience with foreign countries

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The Global Digital Forum is taking place in Nizhny Novgorod on June 5 and 6. The event serves as a platform for building a dialogue between representatives of Russian and foreign IT companies, government bodies, and the scientific and expert community. Deputy Prime Minister and Chief of Staff of the Government Dmitry Grigorenko delivered a report at the plenary session “New Digital World: From Monopolies to Equal Partnership”.

    Digital technologies have become an integral part of increasing the efficiency of processes in many areas in Russia – from public administration and provision of government services electronically to medicine and creation of additional opportunities in education. Thus, 85% of all permits and licenses in the country are issued electronically, and every second application to the registry office is submitted by newlyweds through “Gosuslugi”.

    “Russia is focusing on the development of domestic technologies and is in an active phase of introducing artificial intelligence in various industries. AI can have a great economic effect, speed up and simplify the execution of various tasks. Our country has many solutions that are not inferior to foreign ones, and biometrics services are available that make everyday life easier, for example, checking into hotels or services in MFCs,” said Dmitry Grigorenko.

    The Deputy Prime Minister and Head of the Government Staff noted that the IT industry in Russia is demonstrating steady growth. Over the past five years, the number of participants in the register of accredited IT companies has doubled, and their profits have grown sevenfold. In addition, competitive IT solutions have emerged that are not inferior to foreign ones. According to the Deputy Prime Minister, it is important to consider them not only as products for the domestic market, but also as a full-fledged commodity for export. IT solutions in the field of information security, platform solutions and artificial intelligence have the greatest export potential.

    The Governor of the Nizhny Novgorod Region, Gleb Nikitin, addressed the participants of the Global Digital Forum with a welcoming speech.

    “Today, the Nizhny Novgorod Region is rightfully considered one of the key IT hubs in Russia. We are third in the country – right after Moscow and St. Petersburg – in terms of the level of development of the software development industry, first – in terms of the effectiveness of government support measures for the IT industry. We are building the only IT campus in the country, “Neimark”. Nearby, we will build a modern IT technopark, where the offices of leading technology companies will be located – from international IT giants to fast-growing startups,” emphasized Gleb Nikitin.

    Earlier, at CIPR-2025, the results of monitoring the IT industry for 2024 were presented: the contribution of accredited IT companies to the Russian economy amounted to 6%, and for every ruble of government support invested, 2 rubles were received in taxes.

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Labrador Letter: Keeping Idaho Families Informed About Online Safety

    Source: US State of Idaho

    Home Newsroom Labrador Letter: Keeping Idaho Families Informed About Online Safety

    Dear Friends,
    As both a parent and Idaho’s Attorney General, I’m deeply troubled by recent reports that Meta’s AI technology is exposing children to sexually explicit content and potentially facilitating online predators. I want to take a moment to share what Idaho families need to know.
    My office has joined a 28-state coalition demanding immediate answers from Meta about disturbing findings that their AI assistant, integrated across Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, may be putting children at serious risk of exploitation. Nearly a billion people use this feature monthly, and many of those users are minors.
    Investigators found that Meta’s AI personas were engaging in sexual conversations with users who identify as children. In one case, an AI pretending to be a celebrity had explicit exchanges with someone posing as a 14-year-old girl. The AI even acknowledged this was illegal. Just as troubling, adults can interact with AI personas identifying as children, giving predators a way to practice grooming behaviors.
    What makes this worse is that Meta reportedly removed safety guardrails to make their AI “less boring” and more “humanlike,” despite internal warnings from their own staff. One Meta employee reportedly wrote: “The full mental health impacts of humans forging meaningful connections with fictional chatbots are still widely unknown. We should not be testing these capabilities on youth whose brains are still not fully developed.”
    Another thing that concerns me is that Meta has assured parents that their AI tools are “safe and appropriate for all ages.” Their parent guides claim these tools come with “guidelines that tell a generative AI model what it can and cannot produce.” But those guides fail to mention any risks related to sexual content or romantic role-play capabilities. This means that parents are being kept in the dark about these dangers.
    But technology keeps changing, and our commitment doesn’t. That’s why Idaho led the way last year when the Legislature passed House Bill 465, now Idaho Code Section 18-1507C. This forward-looking statute criminalizes the production, distribution, receipt, possession, or access of visual representations of child sexual abuse created using generative AI or machine learning. We were one of the first states in the country to recognize this emerging threat and give our prosecutors the tools they need to combat it.
    Now, here’s what this means for your family. The same platforms your children use every day to connect with friends may also expose them to AI companions that aren’t what they seem. These synthetic personas can engage in inappropriate conversations with minors and may normalize dangerous interactions.
    We’ve given Meta until June 10 to answer critical questions: 

    Did Meta remove guardrails from Meta AI to allow sexual or romantic role-play with users?
    Are any sexual or romantic role-play capacities of Meta AI still available on Meta’s platforms?
    Are any sexual or romantic role-play capacities of Meta AI available on Meta’s platforms to users under the age of 18?
    Are any sexual or romantic role-play capacities of Meta AI involving youth-focused personas (those identifying as being under the age of 18) available on Meta’s platforms?
    Does Meta intend to halt access to Meta AI’s sexual or romantic role-play capacities for Meta platform users under the age of 18?
    Does Meta intend to halt access to Meta AI’s sexual or romantic role-play capacities involving youth-focused personas (those identifying as being under the age of 18)?

    As Idaho’s Attorney General, protecting families remains my top priority and we will not wait for problems to get worse before we act.
    If you suspect a child is being exploited online, please contact your local police, call our ICAC Unit at (208) 947-8702, or file a report at www.cybertipline.com. For internet safety resources or to request a presentation in your community, visit ICACIdaho.org.
    Parents are the first and best line of defense in keeping kids safe online. Stay informed, stay engaged, and know that my office will continue using every tool at our disposal to protect children in Idaho from those who would do them harm—whether they’re real predators or AI-enabled ones.
    Best regards,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Naugatuck Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Possessing Child Sex Abuse Material While on State Probation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that TRAVIS TILLEY, 41, of Naugatuck, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 120 months of imprisonment, followed by 15 years of supervised release, for possessing child sex abuse material while on state probation for prior child exploitation offenses.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2019, Tilley was convicted in state court of risk of injury to a child, which involved his sexual abuse of a five-year-old victim, and possession of child pornography.  In August 2022, he was released from state custody and began serving a 15-year term of probation.

    On March 9, 2023, state probation officers conducted an unannounced visit to Tilley’s residence and seized his laptop and a flash drive.  Analysis of the seized items revealed that Tilley had utilized prohibited software and had accessed sites that provide sexually explicit material; that he was using encrypted email and messenger services; that he had used an operating system that is configured to leave no digital footprint; and that he was a member of internet chat rooms that focused on child pornography and AI-generated child pornography.  The analysis also revealed two videos depicting the sexual exploitation of prepubescent children, approximately 60 images of AI-generated child pornography, and sexually explicit chat room messages sent by the laptop user.

    Tilley has been detained since his state arrest on March 28, 2023.  On March 6, 2025, he pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of child pornography.

    This investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) with the assistance of the Connecticut Court Support Services Division – Adult Probation Services and the Westport Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel E. Cummings with the assistance of the Office of the State’s Attorney for the Judicial District of Waterbury.

    This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Broadway Technology Inc Announces Entering into a Merger Agreement with Quartzsea Acquisition Corporation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HAINING, China, June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Broadway Technology Inc (“Gaokai”), a leading manufacturer of high-quality PET (polyethylene terephthalate) cups and lids through its operating subsidiary Zhejiang Gaokai New Materials Co., Ltd., announced the execution of an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”) for a business combination with Quartzsea Acquisition Corporation (Nasdaq: QSEAU, QSEA, QSEAR) (“Quartzsea”), a publicly traded special purpose acquisition company.

    Upon consummation of the transaction contemplated by the Merger Agreement, (i) Quartzsea will be merged with and into Cuisine Universal Packaging Solution, a Cayman Islands exempted company and wholly owned subsidiary of Quartzsea (“Cuisine Universal”) (the “SPAC Merger”), and (ii) concurrently with the SPAC merger, CUPS Sub Limited, a Cayman Islands exempted company and wholly owned subsidiary of Cuisine Universal, will be merged with and into Gaokai, resulting in Gaokai being a wholly owned subsidiary of Cuisine Universal (the “Business Combination” and the transactions in connection with the Business Combination collectively, the “Transaction”). Upon the closing of the Transaction, the combined company Cuisine Universal expects to be Nasdaq-listed under the ticker symbol “CUPS.”

    Gaokai Overview

    Gaokai, through its operating subsidiary Zhejiang Gaokai New Materials Co., Ltd., is a high-tech enterprise specializing in the manufacture of high quality customized PET (polyethylene terephthalate) cups and PET lids, with products widely used in packaging markets of aviation, yogurt, juice, fruit tea, coffee, and cold beverage markets. Established in 2021 and located in Haining Jianshan New District, Zhejiang Province, the company operates within the PET industrial park in convenience for sourcing and developing advanced PET raw material.

    Gaokai’s core competitive advantages include stable and high-performance raw PET materials, comprehensive upstream sheet manufacturing capabilities, advanced equipment and automated production lines, and high-transparency, innovative product designs. The company offers comprehensive PET cup customization services, including advanced cup printing technology for custom logos, sizes, and shapes.

    With the comprehensive capabilities of material R&D, innovative design, advanced manufacturing and efficient operation, Gaokai has established itself as a professional PET cup manufacturing base managed by experienced cup manufacturing professionals.

    Key Transaction Terms

    Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, Quartzsea’s wholly owned subsidiary, Cuisine Universal, will acquire Gaokai, resulting in Cuisine Universal being a listed company on the Nasdaq Global Market. At the effective time of the Transaction, Gaokai’s shareholders will receive ordinary shares of Cuisine Universal. The shares held by certain Gaokai shareholders will be subject to lock-up agreements for a period of 180 days following the closing of the Transaction, subject to certain exceptions.

    The Transaction, which has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both Quartzsea and Gaokai, is subject to regulatory approvals, the approvals by the shareholders of Quartzsea and Gaokai, respectively, and the satisfaction of certain other customary closing conditions, including, among others, a registration statement, of which the proxy statement/prospectus forms a part, being declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), and the approval by Nasdaq of the listing application of the combined company.

    The description of the Business Combination contained herein is only a summary and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Merger Agreement relating to the Business Combination. A more detailed description of the Transaction and a copy of the Merger Agreement will be included in a Current Report on Form 8-K to be filed by Quartzsea with the SEC and will be available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    Advisors

    Celine & Partners, PLLC, Ogier Global (Cayman) Limited, and B&D Law Firm serve as legal counsel to Quartzsea. Pryor Cashman LLP, Harney Westwood & Riegels, and Jingtian & Gongcheng, PLLC serve as legal counsel to Gaokai. Chain Stone Capital Limited (CTM) serves as the financial advisor to Gaokai.

    About Quartzsea Acquisition Corporation

    Quartzsea Acquisition Corp. is a blank check company incorporated as a Cayman Islands exempted company with limited liability for the purpose of entering into a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, recapitalization, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities. The company’s efforts to identify a prospective target business will not be limited to a particular industry or geographic region.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    Cuisine Universal Packaging Solution, Quartzsea Acquisition Corporation, and their respective directors, executive officers and employees and other persons may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the holders of Quartzsea ordinary shares in respect of the proposed Transaction. Information about Quartzsea’s directors and executive officers and their ownership of Quartzsea’s ordinary shares is currently set forth in Quartzsea’s prospectus related to its initial public offering dated March 18, 2025, as modified or supplemented by any Form 10-K, Form 3 or Form 4 filed with the SEC since the date of such filing. Other information regarding the interests of the participants in the proxy solicitation will be included in a registration statement on Form F-4 (as may be amended from time to time) that will include a proxy statement and a registration statement/preliminary prospectus (the “Registration Statement”) pertaining to the proposed Transaction when it becomes available. These documents can be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated below.

    No Offer or Solicitation

    This press release is not a proxy statement or solicitation of a proxy, consent or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the Transaction and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities of Quartzsea or a solicitation of any vote or approval, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

    Important Information about the Proposed Business Combination and Where to Find It

    In connection with the Transaction, Cuisine Universal will file relevant materials with the SEC, including the Registration Statement. Promptly after the Registration Statement is declared effective, the proxy statement/prospectus will be sent to all Quartzsea shareholders entitled to vote at the special meeting relating to the Transaction. Before making any voting decision, securities holders of Quartzsea are urged to read the proxy statement/prospectus and all other relevant documents filed or that will be filed with the SEC in connection with the Transaction as they become available because they will contain important information about the Transaction and the parties to the Transaction.

    Stockholders will also be able to obtain copies of the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus, the definitive proxy statement/prospectus, and other documents filed or that will be filed with the SEC through Quartzsea through the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov, or by directing a request to the contacts mentioned below.

    Contact Information:

    Quartzsea Acquisition Corporation:

    Qi Gong

    Chief Executive Officer

    M: +1(212) 612-1400

    E: qgong@quartzsea.com

    Zhejiang Gaokai New Materials Co., Ltd.:

    Chengji Zhang

    E: chengjizhang8@gmail.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Quartzsea’s and Gaokai’s actual results may differ from their expectations, estimates and projections and consequently, you should not rely on these forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Words such as “expect,” “estimate,” “project,” “budget,” “forecast,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “may,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “believes,” “predicts,” “potential,” “might” and “continues,” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, Quartzsea’s and Gaokai’s expectations with respect to future performance and anticipated financial impacts of the Business Combination, the satisfaction of the closing conditions to the Business Combination and the timing of the completion of the Business Combination. These forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expected results. Most of these factors are outside the control of Quartzsea or Gaokai and are difficult to predict. Factors that may cause such differences include, but are not limited to: (1) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the Merger Agreement relating to the proposed Business Combination; (2) the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against Quartzsea or Gaokai following the announcement of the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated therein; (3) the inability to complete the Business Combination, including due to failure to obtain approval of the shareholders of Quartzsea or other conditions to closing in the Merger Agreement; (4) delays in obtaining or the inability to obtain necessary regulatory approvals (including approval from PRC regulators) required to complete the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement; (5) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the Merger Agreement or could otherwise cause the transaction to fail to close; (6) the inability to obtain or maintain the listing of the post-acquisition company’s ordinary shares on Nasdaq following the Business Combination; (7) the risk that the Business Combination disrupts current plans and operations as a result of the announcement and consummation of the Business Combination; (8) the ability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the Business Combination, which may be affected by, among other things, competition, the ability of the combined company to grow and manage growth profitably and retain its key employees; (9) costs related to the Business Combination; (10) changes in applicable laws or regulations; (11) the possibility that Gaokai or the combined company may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; and (12) other risks and uncertainties to be identified in the Registration Statement filed by Quartzsea and Cuisine Universal (when available) relating to the Business Combination, including those under “Risk Factors” therein, and in other filings with the SEC made by Quartzsea and Gaokai. Quartzsea and Gaokai caution that the foregoing list of factors is not exclusive. Quartzsea and Gaokai caution readers not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Neither Quartzsea nor Gaokai undertakes or accepts any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in its expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based, subject to applicable law. The information contained in any website referenced herein is not, and shall not be deemed to be, part of or incorporated into this press release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 378

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL8

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 378
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    145 PM MDT Fri Jun 6 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    East-Central and Southeast Colorado

    * Effective this Friday afternoon and evening from 145 PM until
    900 PM MDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 3.5
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging winds and isolated significant gusts to 75
    mph possible

    SUMMARY…Widely scattered are forecast to develop this afternoon
    near Interstate 25 and intensify as this activity moves east into
    the plains. A few supercells are likely with the more intense
    supercells potentially capable of very large hail up to 3.5 inches
    in diameter. The risk for a couple of tornadoes appears greatest
    during the late afternoon into the early evening when low-level
    shear will strengthen. The threat for severe gusts will probably
    become more prevalent this evening as storms increase in coverage.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 70 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 35 miles north of Limon CO to 40 miles
    west southwest of Springfield CO. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU8).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 376…WW 377…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 3.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 28025.

    …Smith

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW8
    WW 378 TORNADO CO 061945Z – 070300Z
    AXIS..70 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    35N LIC/LIMON CO/ – 40WSW SPD/SPRINGFIELD CO/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 60NM E/W /32SW AKO – 20SE TBE/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..3.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..65 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 28025.

    LAT…LON 39770235 37050202 37050456 39770499

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU8.

    Watch 378 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Mod (30%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (60%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (90%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: XOVR ETF Adds Anduril, Joining SpaceX to Offer Pre-IPO Access

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ERShares, the first Crossover ETF that offers retail investors access to Private companies, with SpaceX as its top weight, is ushering in the next generation of investing with a new private equity position in Anduril Industries. Through the XOVR ETF, which primarily invests (85% +) in the US Entrepreneurial Large Cap ER30TR Index, ERShares continues …its pursuit to provide retail investors access to private equity—which we believe offers exposure to high-growth, entrepreneurial companies typically reserved for institutions and high net worth investors, and does so at the same pricing available to those accredited investors.

    XOVR complies with SEC guidelines by keeping private equity exposure under 15%, with over 85% of the portfolio tracking the Entrepreneur 30 Total Return Index (ER30TR)—built on ERShares’ proprietary Entrepreneur model, applied to public markets for more than two decades. Given its weighting, the ER30TR Index drives the majority of XOVR’s return, while the private holdings offer potential upside and added diversification.

    Private equity investments can experience significant price swings—both upward and downward—over extended periods, even if valuations are not marked frequently. Additionally, private equities are inherently less liquid and less transparent than their public counterparts, resulting in higher risk profiles despite comparable market capitalizations.

    As with all investments, public equities can be volatile, though they have historically offered meaningful return potential over time. Private companies may magnify both opportunity and risk, which is why ERShares encourages investors to consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

    To help manage risk, ERShares applies structured parameters around the size and scope of its private holdings. The due diligence process for these positions mirrors the same rigorous methodology used in constructing the ER30TR Index—adapted for private markets.

    Relaunched on August 29, 2024, XOVR became the first ETF to blend public equities with private equity holdings – potentially delivering diversified, liquid access to both high-growth public companies and elite pre-IPO firms. This ETF Crossover structure helps bridge two previously disconnected markets in one transparent vehicle.

    On May 30, 2025, ERShares initiated a $3M (approx. 1%) investment in Anduril, marking XOVR’s third private equity holding – after SpaceX ($33M, approx. 10%) and Klarna ($2M, less than 1%) – and establishing Anduril as its second-largest private position. The move reflects ERShares’ conviction in companies that sit at the intersection of innovation, national importance, and scalable disruption. The position was selected after extensive internal research and due diligence, consistent with ERShares’ proprietary Venture Capital-style framework for evaluating private and public companies.

    “Our proprietary research model identifies category-defining companies before they go public,” said Dr. Joel Shulman, Founder and CIO of ERShares. “Anduril embodies the deep tech leadership and mission-driven innovation we seek for XOVR.”

    ERShares also recently increased its SpaceX position at $185 per share – matching its previous entries – to reaffirm confidence in the company’s valuation amid market speculation.

    Bridging Public and Private Markets

    “We’re not just following innovation – we’re positioning investors at its source,” said Eva Ados, Chief Investment Strategist at ERShares. “Whether private or public, our focus is on trying to identify the next Magnificent Seven (The “Magnificent 7” currently refers to a group of seven large-cap, high-growth U.S. technology companies: Apple Inc. (AAPL), Microsoft Corporation (MSFT), Alphabet Inc. (GOOGL), Amazon.com, Inc. (AMZN), NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA), Meta Platforms, Inc. (META), and Tesla, Inc. (TSLA))—those rare, transformational companies that have the potential to shape entire decades of innovation and growth.” Anduril Industries: The Next Generation of Defense Technology

    Founded by Palmer Luckey – creator of Oculus and a key early collaborator with Palantir – Anduril Industries represents the next generation of defense technology. Anduril is rapidly becoming foundational to U.S. military modernization initiatives.

    Transparent Valuation Backed by Research

    ERShares uses a structured valuation methodology to price private equity holdings – drawing from tender offers, internal transactions, IPO indicators, and comparables – to help ensure pricing is fair, consistent, and market-aware. This framework helps protect investors while maintaining daily liquidity and regulatory compliance.

    Investing in the Future – Before the IPO

    With positions in SpaceX, Klarna, and now Anduril, XOVR remains the only ETF offering diversified access to potentially high growth private companies alongside expanding public innovators. The fund allows investors to participate in the potential next wave of value creation – before it goes public.

    “We built XOVR to give retail investors access to leading private companies at the critical pre-IPO stage,” added Dr. Shulman. “It is time they participate in the value creation that was once reserved only for institutions and accredited investors.”

    Past performance is no guarantee of future results, please refer to the disclosures below for important risk information: https://entrepreneurshares.com/disclosures/

    All investing involves risk, including potential loss of principal.

    Distributed by Vigilant Distributors LLC.

    Media Contact: info@ershares.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NDB signs 1.2 bln yuan loan agreement to finance environmental projects in China

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    SHANGHAI, June 6 (Xinhua) — The BRICS New Development Bank (NDB) on Friday announced the signing of a 1.2 billion yuan (about 167 million U.S. dollars) syndicated loan agreement to support environmental projects in China.

    As noted by the NBR, the agreement, concluded jointly with the Bank of China and the Chinese company Haitong Unitrust International Financial Leasing Co., Ltd., is aimed at financing green leasing sub-projects focused on environmental goals and climate commitments of the PRC.

    Under the agreement, the NDB will provide more than 713.32 million yuan, while the Bank of China will provide an additional 500 million yuan. Haitong Unitrust, in turn, will use the funds to purchase and lease equipment for projects in areas such as wastewater treatment, solid waste management and power generation from iron and steel exhaust gases.

    To promote balanced regional development, eligible sub-projects will be implemented outside China’s first-tier cities, bringing investment to less developed areas of the country.

    “This initiative meets the needs for climate resilience and environmental protection, and also helps increase investment in less developed regions of China,” said Vladimir Kazbekov, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the NDB.

    The NDB was established in 2015 by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. It is a multilateral development bank that aims to mobilize resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in the BRICS region and other emerging market and developing economies. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s maritime arbitration continues to expand internationally: CCPIT chairman

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 6 (Xinhua) — China’s international influence in maritime arbitration continues to grow steadily, with a marked increase in the number of cases involving other countries and regions and a growing degree of internationalization, said Ren Hongbin, chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT).

    Ren Hongbin, also head of the China Maritime Arbitration Commission (CMAC), made the remarks during a high-level dialogue on maritime and commercial arbitration held in Beijing on Friday.

    In 2024, CMAC ranked among the world’s leading maritime arbitration institutions in terms of caseload. According to Ren Hongbin, the number of disputes it handled involving other countries and regions increased by 55 percent compared with 2023, accounting for 39 percent of its total cases, with disputes covering 40 countries and regions.

    There are currently 284 arbitration institutions in China, which have handled more than 5 million cases with a total value of over 9 trillion yuan (about 1.25 trillion US dollars) involving parties from more than 100 countries and regions.

    Looking to the future, Ren Hongbin called for the development of arbitration services based on innovation and urged arbitration institutions to actively explore the application of scientific and technological methods such as digital technology and artificial intelligence.

    According to him, the use of information technology will reduce costs and increase efficiency and transparency, which will contribute to the continuous increase in the authority and competitiveness of arbitration services in the global arena. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: International Journal of Scientific Research and Technology

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Mission

    The International Journal of Scientific Research and Technology (IJSRT) is a publication that encompasses a broad spectrum of content, including reviews, research articles, and short communications. Its primary objective is to disseminate manuscripts on diverse topics within the realms of science and technology, including but not limited to Medicine, Pharmacy, Engineering, Environmental Science, Data Science, DRug Research, Artificial Intelligence, Biotechnology, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Social Sciences, Humanities, and more

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: “Get Outdoors & Get Together Day” Set for Saturday, June 14

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that New York’s “Get Outdoors & Get Together Day” celebrations will be held on Saturday, June 14 this year with events happening at more than 20 locations across New York State as part of the Governor’s initiative to “Get Offline, Get Outside,” and to ensure inclusivity of access to state public lands. The events bring people of all abilities, ages, identities, and backgrounds together for a day of fun and healthy activities.

    “Get Outdoors & Get Together Day is an opportunity for every New Yorker to visit our world-renowned state parks and public lands, and gather with family and friends while learning something new,” Governor Hochul said. “My Administration has prioritized accessibility and our state parks and lands are here for all New Yorkers to enjoy, no matter their background or abilities. Everyone is welcome.”

    This year’s event is hosted by the State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Perseveration (Parks), in partnership with the Office of the Chief Disability Officer, the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), the Department of Veterans’ Services (DVS), the Office of Mental Health (OMH) and the Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs.

    At 23 locations across the state, participants will be encouraged to discover new skills and enjoy a range of introductory-level outdoor recreation activities such as fishing, nature walks and hikes, birding, archery, paddling, camping demonstrations, and more. Each event will highlight ways to enjoy the outdoors safely and sustainably. All locations will offer a selection of accessible activities, and use of adaptive equipment and demonstrations will be provided at many sites, including trail and beach mobility aids, archery assist stands, arm supports for fishing, and more. Certain sites will also feature sample assistive technology device loans from New York’s regional Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities (TRAID) centers.

    New York’s Get Outdoors & Get Together Day coincides with National Get Outdoors Day, an annual event to encourage healthy, active outdoor fun. Most “Get Outdoors & Get Together Day” celebrations will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., with a few exceptions. Exact times and locations are available on the Parks and DEC websites.

    New York State Chief Disability Officer Kimberly Hill Ridley said, “As New York’s Chief Disability Officer, I am proud we are co-sponsoring ‘Get Outdoors and Get Together’ day since our office was created in 2022. We thoroughly enjoy both co-sponsoring this event, but more importantly, participating in the event, which has consistently demonstrated the beauty that our parks have to offer and the accessibility that we strive to provide each and every day. We know how important the outdoors is to all New Yorkers, including those with disabilities, in the quest to spend as much time outside as possible to benefit both our physical and mental health.”

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “DEC is thrilled to once again host ‘Get Outdoors & Get Together Day’ events across the state in partnership with our sister State agencies. We remain committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive outdoor experience for New Yorkers of all ages, abilities, identities, and lived experiences. New York’s public lands are for everyone and we invite all New Yorkers to join us to celebrate the outdoors and try something new, safely and responsibly.”

    New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities Commissioner Willow Baer said, “This event is important to our agency, especially considering that as little as fifty years ago, many people with developmental disabilities lived in institutions and were denied the same opportunities to enjoy the outdoors as everyone else. When we see people with and without disabilities enjoying the great outdoors together, we’re reminded that true inclusion goes beyond integration. I encourage everyone to come out for Get Outdoors & Get Together Day and see what it is all about.”

    New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Perseveration Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said, “Get Outdoors & Get Together Day highlights New York’s amazing public lands and recreational opportunities that are accessible for everyone to enjoy. Parks are natural gathering places where everyone can connect with nature and build memories, and New York State is committed to ensuring that all people of all abilities feel welcome and can experience the joy of the outdoors together. We are excited to once again partner with other state agencies to make this event possible and continue connecting more people to the outdoors.”

    New York State Department of Veterans’ Services Commissioner Viviana M. DeCohen said, “Get Outdoors & Get Together Day is a beautiful reminder that connection and community can be found in enjoying the scenic beauty of New York’s great outdoors. For Veterans, Service Members, and Military Families, this inclusive event offers a powerful way to recharge, reconnect, and feel truly welcomed in every corner of our state.”

    New York State Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said, “Being outdoors and connecting with nature can have a powerful and positive impact on our mental health. As New Yorkers, we are very fortunate to have a beautiful park system that is both accessible and expansive — from nearby our cities and through the rural areas of upstate. As a proud partner of Get Outdoors and Get Together Day this year, we encourage all New Yorkers to explore the parks in their community and elsewhere throughout our state.”

    New York State Justice Center for the Protection of People With Special Needs Acting Executive Director Maria Lisi-Murray said, “Our job at the Justice Center is to protect the health, safety, and dignity of individuals with special needs in New York State and that includes promoting programs like TRAID. Funded through federal grants, TRAID is administered through the Justice Center and offers assistive technology device loans to any New Yorker, free of charge. Our regional TRAID centers across NY will be demonstrating some of these technologies at various Get Outdoors & Get Together Day sites. We are honored to serve as a sponsor for this year’s events and to help all individuals experience the great outdoors.”

    State Senator José Serrano said, “As the Chair of the Committee on Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks and Recreation, I am a firm believer that time spent outdoors in our green spaces is critical for our health and well-being. New York’s Get Outdoors & Get Together Day is a great opportunity for people of all ages to get outside and engage in recreational activities. My sincere thanks to Governor Kathy Hochul, Parks, DEC and all the partner state agencies for organizing this annual event to encourage healthy, active outdoor fun in our communities.”

    2025 DEC-led Programs:

    Activities at DEC facilities may include the following:

    • Camping 101: Visitors can try their hand at camping basics by pitching a tent on the lawn and learning how to pack for a camping trip.
    • Birding: Participants can learn how easy and fun it is to enjoy birdwatching almost anywhere.
    • Hiking: Participants can take a short hike and learn the basics of finding the perfect trails on their own.
    • Outdoor safety: Learn the basics of being prepared and safe so all outdoor adventures are good ones.
    • Accessible outdoor recreation: Experience and learn about accessible outdoor recreation opportunities on State lands including hiking, camping, birding, fishing and boating.
    • Select locations will also include I Fish NY catch-and-release clinics with rods and reels available for loan, introductory paddling on the water, and introductory archery, including important safety tips.

    Wheelchair-accessible features, including restrooms, as well as activities and select recreation opportunities are offered at all locations. Please contact the event coordinator directly with accommodation requests and to find out about the adaptive equipment and activities offered at each site. Details, including schedules and activity lists, can be found on the DEC’s website on the “Outdoors Day” page.

    2025 State Parks-led Programs:

    Program and scheduling details for each location can be found by visiting parks.ny.gov. No parking fee will be charged during event times. For details about visitor amenities at each location, visit parks.ny.gov.

    The New York City and Long Island events located at Denny Farrell Riverbank State Park, Mount Loretto Unique Area, Hempstead Lake State Park, and Sunken Meadow State Park are very popular, and there is no parking available for oversized vans accommodating larger groups at these sites with the exception of Sunken Meadow State Park. If you have a bus or oversized van you need to park at any park or DEC site, please contact the facility directly to inquire about parking availability in advance of your arrival.

    The Department of Environmental Conservation manages five million acres of public lands, including three million acres in the Adirondack and Catskill Forest Preserve, 55 campgrounds and day-use areas, more than 5,000 miles of formal trails and hundreds of trailheads, boat launches, and fishing piers. Plan your next outdoor adventure and connect with us on Facebook, Bluesky, X, Flickr and Instagram.

    The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, and welcomes over 88 million visitors annually. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer app or call 518-474-0456. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, the OPRHP Blog or via the OPRHP Newsroom.

    The Office for People With Developmental Disabilities provides high quality person-centered support and services to people with developmental disabilities, including intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorders, and other neurological impairments. OPWDD provides services directly and through a network of not-for-profit providers. OPWDD’s mission is to help people live richer lives that include meaningful relationships, good health, personal growth and a home that supports them to participate in their community. For more information visit opwdd.ny.gov or connect with us on Facebook, X and Instagram.

    The New York State Department of Veterans’ Services proudly serves New York’s Veterans, Service Members, and Military Families, connecting them with benefits, services, and support. All who served should contact the Department at 888-838-7697 or via its website – veterans.ny.gov – to meet in-person or virtually with an accredited Veterans Benefits Advisor to receive the benefits they have earned. Follow DVS on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.

    The New York State Office of Mental Health is committed to promoting the mental health of all New Yorkers, with a particular focus on providing hope and recovery for adults with serious mental illness and children with serious emotional disturbances. The agency oversees a large, multi-faceted mental health system serving nearly 800,000 individuals annually. OMH operates 3,597 inpatient beds at 23 psychiatric centers statewide, while also overseeing the Nathan S. Kline Institute and New York Psychiatric Institute. In addition, the agency is tasked with regulating, certifying, and overseeing more than 6,500 programs operated by local governments and nonprofit agencies, which are dedicated to serving individuals and families living with mental illness.

    The Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs was established in 2013 by the Protection of People with Special Needs Act. The agency was created to restore public trust in the institutions and individuals charged with caring for vulnerable populations by protecting the health, safety, and dignity of all people with special needs. For more information on the agency, visit: justicecenter.ny.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Reprioritizes Cybersecurity Efforts to Protect America

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    STRENGTHENING THE NATION’S CYBERSECURITY: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to strengthen the nation’s cybersecurity by focusing on critical protections against foreign cyber threats and enhancing secure technology practices.
    The Order amends problematic elements of Obama and Biden-era Executive Orders (14144 and 13694).
    The Order directs the Federal government to advance secure software development.
    It directs department and agency level action on border gateway security to defeat hijacking of network interconnections.
    The Order directs department and agency level actions on post-quantum cryptography to ensure protection against threats that may leverage next generation compute architectures.
    The Order directs adoption of the latest encryption protocols.
    It refocuses artificial intelligence (AI) cybersecurity efforts towards identifying and managing vulnerabilities, rather than censorship.
    The Order directs technical measures to promulgate cybersecurity policy, including machine readable policy standards and formal trust designations for “Internet of Things” as a way to ensure that Americans can know that their personal and home devices meet basic security engineering principles.
    It limits the application of cyber sanctions only to foreign malicious actors, preventing misuse against domestic political opponents and clarifying that sanctions do not apply to election-related activities.
    The Order strips away inappropriate measures outside of core cybersecurity focus, including removing a mandate for U.S. government issued digital IDs for illegal aliens that would have facilitated entitlement fraud and other abuse.
    REPRIORITIZING CYBERSECURITY EFFORTS: President Trump is taking decisive action to address real technical challenges and enduring cyber security threats.
    Just days before President Trump took office, the Biden Administration attempted to sneak problematic and distracting issues into cybersecurity policy. This included:
    Introducing digital identity mandates that risked widespread abuse by enabling illegal immigrants to improperly access public benefits.
    Imposing unproven and burdensome software accounting processes that prioritized compliance checklists over genuine security investments.
    Micromanaging technical cybersecurity decisions better handled at the department and agency level, where budget tradeoffs and innovative solutions can be more effectively evaluated and implemented.

    Cybersecurity is too important to be reduced to a mere political football.
    Adversaries routinely threaten our critical infrastructure, personal devices, and the fabrics of our digital lives.
    ADVANCING NATIONAL CYBER SECURITY: President Trump is advancing cybersecurity for the safety of all Americans.
    President Trump has made it clear that this Administration will do what it takes to make America cyber secure—including focusing relentlessly on technical and organizational professionalism to improve the security and resilience of the nation’s information systems and networks.
    Since the first day he entered office, President Trump has been steadfast in his commitment to eliminate fraud and abuse across the Federal Government.
    President Trump has already taken action to remove barriers to AI innovation, ensuring that our technology sector remains competitive at the cutting edge of new developments and free from ideological bias.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Unleashes American Drone Dominance

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    UNLEASHING AMERICAN DRONE DOMINANCE: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to ensure continued American leadership in the development, commercialization, and export of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS)—otherwise known as drones. 
    The Order directs the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to expand drone operations by enabling routine “Beyond Visual Line of Sight” drone operations for commercial and public safety missions, and to accelerate the development, testing, and scaling of American drone technologies, including advanced air mobility and autonomous operations.
    The Order establishes an electric “Vertical Takeoff and Landing” integration pilot program to accelerate the deployment of safe and lawful vertical operations in the United States, selecting at least five pilot projects to advance applications like cargo transport and medical response.
    It directs the FAA Administrator to deploy artificial intelligence (AI) tools to streamline and expedite UAS waiver reviews.
    The Order directs the FAA Administrator to publish an updated roadmap for the integration of civil UAS into the National Airspace System.
    It strengthens the domestic drone industrial base by prioritizing U.S.-manufactured UAS, promoting their export and taking action to ensure our technology remains secure from undue foreign influence and exploitation.
    It enhances global competitiveness by streamlining regulations, expanding market access, and utilizing federal financing tools.
    The Order supports the warfighter by expanding access to U.S.-manufactured high-performing drones while streamlining airspace and spectrum access.
    DRIVING INNOVATION AND ECONOMIC GROWTH: President Trump is harnessing the potential of drones to boost American productivity and global leadership.
    Drones enhance U.S. productivity, create high-skilled jobs, and are reshaping the future of aviation in areas such as logistics, infrastructure inspection, precision agriculture, emergency response, and public safety.
    Emerging technologies, such as vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, promise to modernize methods for cargo delivery, passenger transport, and other advanced air mobility capabilities.
    For too long, unfair foreign competition has posed a national security risk, disincentivizing our drone industrial base. This order is removing regulatory barriers and directing federal agencies to prioritize U.S.-manufactured drones, secure our supply chains, and promote American leadership in production, certification, and export.
    ADVANCING DRONE TECHNOLOGIES: President Trump is advancing drone technologies for economic, security, and public safety benefits.
    In his first term, President Trump signed a Presidential Memorandum to speed up commercial drone integration, launching a UAS Integration Pilot Program to test innovative applications with State, local, and tribal partners.  
    President Trump has deployed UAS to patrol the southern border, strengthening national security through advanced surveillance and monitoring capabilities.
    President Trump has advanced cutting-edge drone technologies through smart, targeted regulation, unlocking economic growth while strengthening safety, security, and innovation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Takes Action to Lead the World in Supersonic Flight

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    LEADING THE WORLD IN SUPERSONIC FLIGHT: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to promote supersonic aviation in the United States.
    America once led the world in supersonic aviation, but decades of stifling regulations grounded progress. This Order removes regulatory barriers so that U.S. companies can dominate supersonic flight once again.
    The Order directs the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to repeal the prohibition on overland supersonic flight, establish an interim noise-based certification standard, and repeal other regulations that hinder supersonic flight.
    The Order instructs the FAA Administrator to establish a standard for supersonic aircraft noise certification that considers community acceptability, economic reasonableness, and technological feasibility.
    The Order advances the coordination of supersonic research, development, test and evaluation efforts through the National Science and Technology Council with leadership from the Office of Science and Technology Policy.
    It promotes international engagement through the FAA and other agencies to align global supersonic flight regulations and secure bilateral agreements for international operations.
    USHERING IN A NEW CHAPTER IN AEROSPACE INNOVATION: President Trump is launching a historic national effort to reestablish the United States as the undisputed leader in high-speed aviation.
    For more than fifty years, outdated and overly restrictive regulations have grounded the promise of supersonic flight, stifling American ingenuity and weakening our global competitiveness in aviation.
    Advances in aerospace engineering, materials science, and noise reduction now make supersonic flight not just possible, but safe, sustainable, and commercially viable.
    American companies developing supersonic aircraft have already entered into government contracts and agreements with major commercial airlines, such as United Airlines and American Airlines, who have committed to purchase supersonic jets to enhance their fleets with faster travel options.
    By removing decades-old regulatory barriers and promoting cutting-edge supersonic technology, President Trump is Making Aviation Great Again.
    ADVANCING AMERICA’S TECHNOLOGICAL LEADERSHIP: President Trump is ensuring U.S. dominance in cutting-edge technologies, prioritizing innovation and global competitiveness.
    President Trump signed Executive Orders to enhance America’s global artificial intelligence (AI) dominance and advance AI education for America’s youth.
    He signed multiple Executive Orders to advance nuclear technologies and ensure a reliable, clean, and affordable domestic energy supply.
    The President signed an Executive Order to restore Gold Standard Science as the cornerstone of Federal scientific research and ensure that Federal decision-making is informed by the most credible, reliable, and impartial scientific evidence available. 
    President Trump has prioritized deregulation to spur innovation and economic growth.
    This includes issuing Executive Orders mandating the repeal of 10 regulations for each new one proposed, requiring the automatic rescission of outdated regulations, and eliminating anti-competitive regulations.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese Foreign Minister Holds Phone Talk with French Foreign Minister

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 6 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a telephone conversation with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on Friday.

    Wang Yi, also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, recalled that Chinese President Xi Jinping and French President Emmanuel Macron recently held a telephone conversation during which an important consensus was reached on strengthening strategic coordination between the two countries.

    The two sides should make proper preparations for further exchanges at all levels, and China invites senior French officials to attend the World Conference on Artificial Intelligence in Shanghai in 2025, the Chinese Foreign Minister said.

    Noting that the two sides have reached consensus on resolving trade and economic issues through dialogue and consultation, Wang Yi stressed the need to expand cultural, humanitarian and educational exchanges to promote the healthy development of the China-France comprehensive strategic partnership and China-EU ties.

    Wang Yi noted that China and France, adhering to the traditions of independence and self-reliance, should strengthen strategic mutual trust and respect each other’s core interests.

    He stressed that the Taiwan issue is an internal matter of China, which affects the national sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country and is fundamentally different from the Ukrainian problem. China attaches great importance to France’s commitment to the one-China policy, the diplomat noted, adding that China believes that France will implement this commitment.

    Wang expressed hope that France will take a correct stance and oppose NATO’s interference in the Asia-Pacific region, stressing that the two countries should jointly adhere to multilateralism and safeguard free trade, and oppose the practice of unilateral bullying.

    J.-N. Barrot, for his part, said that Vice President of the People’s Republic of China Han Zheng has been invited to attend the upcoming UN Ocean Conference in France, noting that in the context of growing global uncertainty, French-Chinese relations are taking on particular importance.

    France always regards China as a friend and partner, firmly adheres to the one-China policy, and hopes to maintain high-level exchanges and enhance strategic communication with China, the French diplomat assured.

    Strengthening bilateral cultural and humanitarian exchanges will send a strong signal of openness, which is particularly relevant in the current circumstances, continued Jean-Nicolas Barrot, adding that France is against trade and tariff wars and is ready to continue to properly resolve trade and economic frictions through consultations.

    The parties also exchanged views on issues related to Ukraine, the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, and the Iranian nuclear program. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –