NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • More than 30 killed in sectarian clashes in Syria’s Sweida, interior ministry says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    More than 30 people were killed and 100 injured in armed clashes in Syria’s predominantly Druze city of Sweida, the Syrian interior ministry said early on Monday, in the latest bout of sectarian clashes.

    The violence erupted after a wave of kidnappings, including the abduction of a Druze merchant on Friday on the highway linking Damascus to Sweida, witnesses said.

    This is the first time sectarian fighting has erupted inside the city of Sweida itself, the provincial capital of the mostly Druze province.

    Last April saw clashes between Sunni fighters and armed Druze residents of Jaramana, southeast of Damascus, which later spread to another district near the provincial capital.

    “This cycle of violence has exploded in a terrifyng way and if it doesn’t end we are heading toward to a bloodbath,” said Rayan Marouf, a Druze researcher based in Sweida who runs the Suwayda24 website.

    The clashes involving Bedouin tribal fighters and Druze militias were centered in Maqwas neighborhood east of Sweida, which is inhabited by Bedouin tribes, and was encircled by armed Druze groups and later seized.

    The Syrian ministry of interior said that its forces will begin direct intervention in Sweida to resolve the conflict, calling on local parties in the Druze city to cooperate with the security forces.

    Armed Bedouin tribesmen also launched attacks on Druze villages on the western and north outskirts of the city, residents said.

    A medical source told Reuters that at least 15 bodies had been taken to the morgue at Sweida’s state hospital. Around 50 people were injured, with some transported to Deraa city for medical care.

    The violence marked the latest episode of sectarian bloodshed in Syria, where fears among minority groups have surged since Islamist-led rebels toppled President Bashar al-Assad in December, installing their own government and security forces.

    Those concerns intensified following the killing of hundreds of Alawites in March, in apparent retaliation for an earlier attack carried out by Assad loyalists.

    It was the deadliest sectarian flare-up in years in Syria, where a 14-year civil war ended last December with Assad fleeing to Russia after his government was overthrown by rebel forces.

    (Reuters)

  • PM Modi distributes over 51,000 appointment letters at 16th Rozgar Mela

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi distributed over 51,000 appointment letters to newly appointed youth during the 16th Rozgar Mela held on Saturday. The event was conducted at 47 locations across the country, marking yet another milestone in the government’s commitment to generate employment opportunities for the nation’s youth.

    Addressing the new recruits, Prime Minister Modi congratulated them and highlighted the importance of their role in shaping a stronger, more self-reliant India. The newly inducted employees have joined various Central Government Ministries and Departments, including the Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Home Affairs, Department of Posts, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Department of Financial Services, and Ministry of Labour and Employment, among others. The Rozgar Mela continues to reflect the government’s vision of equitable and inclusive development by bringing employment closer to the youth across the nation.

    Organised under the aegis of the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), an initiative of the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), the Rozgar Mela aims to bridge the gap between job seekers and employers, particularly in the private sector. NSDC works in close coordination with Sector Skill Councils (SSCs) and Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendras (PMKKs) to source reputable private companies for participation in the Melas, ensuring a wide array of employment opportunities for youth.

    A Rozgar Mela typically functions as a half-day employment fair, where employers and job seekers interact directly. Targeting youth aged between 18 and 35 years, the initiative accommodates a wide spectrum of educational qualifications—ranging from candidates with 8th, 10th, and 12th-grade certifications to those holding ITI, diploma, and graduate degrees. It also includes trained and certified individuals who meet the standards of the National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF).

    To ensure the broadest possible outreach, job seekers are informed about the events through print advertisements, SMS campaigns, social media, and workshops at educational institutions. Besides job interviews and recruitments, the Rozgar Melas also offer career counseling sessions for youth and their families, Kaushal Melas to register for new skill development programs under PMKVY and PMKK, Mudra Loan Facilitation Counters, and skill exhibitions showcasing training modules and job roles.

    Rozgar Melas are not limited to NSDC-led events alone. Affiliated organisations like SSCs, PMKKs, and training partners under the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) also organise these events on various scales throughout the year, extending the benefits of job matchmaking and skill awareness across multiple districts.

    The Rozgar Mela initiative, launched nationally on 22nd October 2022, has seen consistent expansion. The inaugural edition saw over 75,000 appointment letters distributed. Subsequent editions have continued to strengthen the momentum, with appointment letters ranging from 51,000 to over 1 lakh being distributed in each event. Notably, the 12th edition in February 2024 marked a record, with the Prime Minister distributing over one lakh appointment letters and laying the foundation stone for Phase I of the Integrated Complex “Karmayogi Bhavan” in New Delhi.

  • Widespread rainfall predicted across India; Delhi-NCR to see light showers: IMD

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India continues to witness an active monsoon phase, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting extremely heavy rainfall (over 21 cm ) at isolated places in Rajasthan on Monday and Tuesday. Similar intense showers are likely over Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha, and southeast Jharkhand on July 14, and Chhattisgarh on July 15.

    Very heavy rainfall is also expected at isolated places across Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand on July 14 and 15.

    West Rajasthan may receive heavy showers on July 16, while west Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat Region are likely to experience similar conditions on July 14.

    Eastern Madhya Pradesh is forecast to receive heavy rainfall on July 16 and 17.

    Gangetic West Bengal and Odisha will continue to receive heavy rain on July 15, while Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh are set for heavy rainfall between July 14 and 16.

    Bihar is expected to receive heavy rainfall during July 14 and 16, while eastern Uttar Pradesh is likely to experience heavy showers on July 17.

    Southern states including Kerala & Tamil Nadu, and coastal Karnataka are likely to receive continuous heavy rainfall through the week from July 14 to 20.

    This weather activity is being driven by a well-marked low-pressure area currently over northeast Rajasthan and adjoining northwest Madhya Pradesh, and another system over southeast Gangetic West Bengal and adjoining Bangladesh.

    In the past 24 hours, Odisha has already recorded extremely heavy rainfall, while very heavy rain (7–20 cm) was observed at isolated places in Jharkhand, East Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and West Madhya Pradesh.

    Several other regions – including Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Assam, and Tripura – reported heavy rainfall (7–11 cm).

    Weather forecast for Delhi-NCR

    In Delhi-NCR, the IMD has predicted generally cloudy skies and light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning over the next four days.

    On Monday, the city is likely to experience strong surface winds between 20–30 kmph, gusting up to 40 kmph. Maximum temperatures are expected to remain in the range of 31–33°C, which is 3–5°C below normal.

    On July 15, very light to light rain is forecast, with similar wind patterns and temperatures ranging between 32–34°C (maximum) and 24–26°C (minimum), both slightly below normal.

    The weather will remain partly cloudy on July 16 and 17, with occasional light rain and thunderstorms. Daytime temperatures will hover between 33–35°C, and nighttime temperatures between 24–26°C. Winds will predominantly blow from the southeast, with moderate speeds in the afternoon, easing by evening.

    Overall, Delhi is expected to see relatively cooler and wet weather this week, while the rest of northern, eastern, and central India remains on alert for heavy rainfall and potential flooding in vulnerable regions.

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Major Sports Events Committee awards “M” Mark status to three events

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The following is issued on behalf of the Major Sports Events Committee:

    The Major Sports Events Committee (MSEC) has awarded “M” Mark status to the FIBA 3×3 World Tour – Hong Kong 2025 (July 19 and 20), Hong Kong Football Festival – Liverpool FC vs AC Milan – The Standard Chartered Trophy (July 26), and Hong Kong Football Festival – Arsenal vs Tottenham Hotspur – The Herbalgy Trophy (July 31).

    The Chairman of the MSEC, Mr Wilfred Ng, said today (July 14), “The FIBA 3×3 World Tour – Hong Kong 2025 will gather top 3×3 basketball teams from around the world to Hong Kong, providing spectators with a thrilling viewing experience. The highlights of July will certainly be the two football friendly matches held at Kai Tak Stadium at the end of the month, featuring Liverpool FC versus AC Milan and Arsenal versus Tottenham Hotspur. These two exhibition matches will bring fans a world-class football experience. These three sporting events will not only bring high-level competitions to the spectators but also stimulate the local economy, enhancing Hong Kong’s international image and strengthening its status as an events capital.”

    The “M” Mark System aims to encourage and help local National Sports Associations and private or non-government organisations to organise more major international sports events and nurture them into sustainable undertakings. Sports events meeting the assessment criteria will be considered for “M” Mark status by the MSEC. Funding support will also be provided to some events.
     
    For details of “M” Mark events, please visit www.mevents.org.hk.
     
     

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HyD invites industry to attend briefing sessions on Hong Kong section of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link (Hung Shui Kiu-Qianhai)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Highways Department (HyD) will hold briefing sessions on July 25, August 1 and 7 in Shenzhen, Guangzhou and Hong Kong respectively to introduce the details of the Hong Kong section of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link (Hung Shui Kiu-Qianhai) (HSWRL) project and the upcoming invitation to the industry for submission of expressions of interest (EOIs).

         The HyD invites representatives from relevant organisations of the industry (including contractors, operators, consultants, railway system suppliers and rolling stock manufacturers, etc) which are interested in participating in the project to attend the briefing sessions. The registration details and forms are in the Annex. Industry representatives interested in attending the briefing sessions, please enrol on or before July 18 (Friday).

         The construction of the HSWRL is a crucial initiative in support of the thorough implementation of the Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). It will enhance the infrastructure connectivity in the GBA and facilitate Hong Kong’s integration into national development. Coupled with the co-location customs clearance arrangement, the HSWRL will connect the metro networks in the western regions of Hong Kong and Shenzhen. A trip from Hung Shui Kiu to Qianhai will only take approximately 15 minutes, which will help to foster the “one-hour living circle” in the GBA and enable convenient cross-boundary commerce, work, living, study and travelling activities of the residents of the two places. The HSWRL is also an important transport infrastructure promoting the development of the Northern Metropolis, catering to the local travelling demand in the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area as well as Lau Fau Shan, Tsim Bei Tsui and Pak Nai areas.

         The Government is conducting the investigation and design of the Hong Kong section of the HSWRL, including undergoing statutory processes such as an environmental impact assessment and gazettal. The goal is to have the project ready for tendering in 2027, striving to complete the construction works in 2034, followed by integrated testing and commissioning to realise the common goal of the governments of Hong Kong and Shenzhen to commission the HSWRL in 2035. Through the briefing sessions, the HyD hopes to attract the attention and interest of more Mainland, local and even overseas organisations of the industry towards the project, thereby actively submitting EOIs, which will enable the HyD to gain a better grasp of the industry’s views on the scheme, procurement and financial arrangements of the Hong Kong section of the HSWRL, to formulate appropriate tender terms and details.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sydney ETO supports music tour of Hong Kong Children’s Choir (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Sydney (Sydney ETO) supported the Hong Kong Children’s Choir (HKCC) in presenting a series of performances and cultural exchange programmes across Australia and New Zealand in July to promote Hong Kong’s vibrant art and culture scene and showcase the artistic excellence of Hong Kong’s youth.
     
         Following its previous appearance in Australia in 2017, the HKCC commenced its concert tour in Hobart, Australia, where it participated as the guest choir at the “Festival of Voices” from July 3 to 7. The tour continued with a charity concert in Sydney on July 9, in support of CanRevive’s cancer support service. The tour concluded in Auckland, New Zealand, with two performances: the “Dreams to Dream” concert yesterday (July 11) and the “Echoes of Culture” choral concert today (July 12).
     
         To mark the Sydney leg of the tour, the Sydney ETO hosted a pre-performance reception at Hong Kong House on July 9. About 100 guests from various sectors, including leaders from the local arts and cultural community, politicians and business leaders attended the event.
     
         In his welcoming remarks, the Director of the Sydney ETO, Mr Ricky Chong, welcomed the HKCC and highlighted the longstanding ties between Hong Kong and Australia. “Events like these resonate far beyond the concert hall. They remind us that our relationships are not only built on trade and economic exchange, but also on shared values, artistic collaboration, and community spirit,” he said.
     
         Mr Chong said that the National 14th Five-Year Plan has expressed clear support for Hong Kong to develop into an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange. The Government is committed to further strengthening Hong Kong’s role as Asia’s events capital. “With the official opening of the state-of-the-art Kai Tak Sports Park, we are welcoming a diverse array of large-scale international events, from major concerts and rugby matches to world-class football,” he added.
     
         In celebration of the HKCC’s debut visit to New Zealand, the Sydney ETO also hosted a pre-performance reception yesterday (July 11) ahead of the “Dreams to Dream” concert in Auckland, further fostering cultural exchanges between Hong Kong and New Zealand.
     
         Founded in 1969, the HKCC has grown into a diversified arts organisation for children. The HKCC has gained international acclaim for its performances and is widely recognised as one of the world’s leading children’s choirs.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sydney ETO supports music tour of Hong Kong Children’s Choir (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Sydney (Sydney ETO) supported the Hong Kong Children’s Choir (HKCC) in presenting a series of performances and cultural exchange programmes across Australia and New Zealand in July to promote Hong Kong’s vibrant art and culture scene and showcase the artistic excellence of Hong Kong’s youth.
     
         Following its previous appearance in Australia in 2017, the HKCC commenced its concert tour in Hobart, Australia, where it participated as the guest choir at the “Festival of Voices” from July 3 to 7. The tour continued with a charity concert in Sydney on July 9, in support of CanRevive’s cancer support service. The tour concluded in Auckland, New Zealand, with two performances: the “Dreams to Dream” concert yesterday (July 11) and the “Echoes of Culture” choral concert today (July 12).
     
         To mark the Sydney leg of the tour, the Sydney ETO hosted a pre-performance reception at Hong Kong House on July 9. About 100 guests from various sectors, including leaders from the local arts and cultural community, politicians and business leaders attended the event.
     
         In his welcoming remarks, the Director of the Sydney ETO, Mr Ricky Chong, welcomed the HKCC and highlighted the longstanding ties between Hong Kong and Australia. “Events like these resonate far beyond the concert hall. They remind us that our relationships are not only built on trade and economic exchange, but also on shared values, artistic collaboration, and community spirit,” he said.
     
         Mr Chong said that the National 14th Five-Year Plan has expressed clear support for Hong Kong to develop into an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange. The Government is committed to further strengthening Hong Kong’s role as Asia’s events capital. “With the official opening of the state-of-the-art Kai Tak Sports Park, we are welcoming a diverse array of large-scale international events, from major concerts and rugby matches to world-class football,” he added.
     
         In celebration of the HKCC’s debut visit to New Zealand, the Sydney ETO also hosted a pre-performance reception yesterday (July 11) ahead of the “Dreams to Dream” concert in Auckland, further fostering cultural exchanges between Hong Kong and New Zealand.
     
         Founded in 1969, the HKCC has grown into a diversified arts organisation for children. The HKCC has gained international acclaim for its performances and is widely recognised as one of the world’s leading children’s choirs.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by CS at Student of the Year Awards 2024/25 Presentation Ceremony (English only) (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Following is the speech by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, at the Student of the Year Awards 2024/25 Presentation Ceremony today (July 12):
     
    Catherine (Chief Executive Officer of the South China Morning Post (SCMP), Ms Catherine So), Dr Lake Wang (Executive Director, People and Organisational Development of the Hong Kong Jockey Club), Tammy (Editor-in-Chief of the South China Morning Post, Ms Tammy Tam), Advisory Board members, ladies and gentlemen,
     
    Good morning. And what a great morning this is for Hong Kong. Today, we celebrate our secondary schools and the exceptional professionalism and dedication of principals, teachers and support staff. We also thank parents for their endless support. And, most importantly, we honour the students among us today – the winners and finalists of this 44th annual Student of the Year Awards.
     
    This year, over 840 students from 177 schools were nominated. And that, I’m delighted to say, is a new record high for the Awards.
     
    Rewarding excellence is no easy task, yet Hong Kong is fortunate to have so many deserving students.
     
    The judging panel had the tough task of bringing all those impressive nominations down to 40 finalists for the Awards’ 10 student categories, including the Grand Prize.
     
    The Government is firmly committed to youth development.  
     
    The Youth Development Blueprint for Hong Kong, released in late 2022, outlines our guiding principles for promoting long-term youth development. Its original 160-plus measures have been expanded, since then, to about 250, in an ongoing effort to ensure that the Blueprint evolves to meet the changing needs of our youth.
     
    Our vision is to raise a new generation of youth instilled with a global perspective, a positive mindset and a deep love for our city and our country.
     
    That demands a community-wide effort, including valued partnerships with organisations like the SCMP and the Jockey Club, working closely with educational institutions and families, to create an enabling environment for the youth of Hong Kong.
     
    This year’s theme, “Building Tomorrow: Growth Through Action”, reflects that shared vision.
     
    My congratulations to each and every one of this year’s awardees and finalists. Remember, this city, together with your proud parents, your school, teachers and mentors, and so many others who have helped you along the way, believe in you and look forward to your future with great expectations.
     
    I am grateful to the South China Morning Post and the Hong Kong Jockey Club for organising this prestigious event year after year and, in doing so, putting a brilliant spotlight on education, our youth and Hong Kong.  
     
    My thanks, too, to the Awards’ judges, nearly 40 in all, for their invaluable time and expertise, and their compelling commitment to excellence.
     
    Ladies and gentlemen, I know you will all enjoy this memorable day in the life.
     
    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by CS at Student of the Year Awards 2024/25 Presentation Ceremony (English only) (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Following is the speech by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, at the Student of the Year Awards 2024/25 Presentation Ceremony today (July 12):
     
    Catherine (Chief Executive Officer of the South China Morning Post (SCMP), Ms Catherine So), Dr Lake Wang (Executive Director, People and Organisational Development of the Hong Kong Jockey Club), Tammy (Editor-in-Chief of the South China Morning Post, Ms Tammy Tam), Advisory Board members, ladies and gentlemen,
     
    Good morning. And what a great morning this is for Hong Kong. Today, we celebrate our secondary schools and the exceptional professionalism and dedication of principals, teachers and support staff. We also thank parents for their endless support. And, most importantly, we honour the students among us today – the winners and finalists of this 44th annual Student of the Year Awards.
     
    This year, over 840 students from 177 schools were nominated. And that, I’m delighted to say, is a new record high for the Awards.
     
    Rewarding excellence is no easy task, yet Hong Kong is fortunate to have so many deserving students.
     
    The judging panel had the tough task of bringing all those impressive nominations down to 40 finalists for the Awards’ 10 student categories, including the Grand Prize.
     
    The Government is firmly committed to youth development.  
     
    The Youth Development Blueprint for Hong Kong, released in late 2022, outlines our guiding principles for promoting long-term youth development. Its original 160-plus measures have been expanded, since then, to about 250, in an ongoing effort to ensure that the Blueprint evolves to meet the changing needs of our youth.
     
    Our vision is to raise a new generation of youth instilled with a global perspective, a positive mindset and a deep love for our city and our country.
     
    That demands a community-wide effort, including valued partnerships with organisations like the SCMP and the Jockey Club, working closely with educational institutions and families, to create an enabling environment for the youth of Hong Kong.
     
    This year’s theme, “Building Tomorrow: Growth Through Action”, reflects that shared vision.
     
    My congratulations to each and every one of this year’s awardees and finalists. Remember, this city, together with your proud parents, your school, teachers and mentors, and so many others who have helped you along the way, believe in you and look forward to your future with great expectations.
     
    I am grateful to the South China Morning Post and the Hong Kong Jockey Club for organising this prestigious event year after year and, in doing so, putting a brilliant spotlight on education, our youth and Hong Kong.  
     
    My thanks, too, to the Awards’ judges, nearly 40 in all, for their invaluable time and expertise, and their compelling commitment to excellence.
     
    Ladies and gentlemen, I know you will all enjoy this memorable day in the life.
     
    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Red flag hoisted at Golden Beach

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Attention TV/radio announcers:

    Please broadcast the following as soon as possible:
     
         Here is an item of interest to swimmers.
     
         The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (July 12) that according to the Beach Water Quality Forecast System of the Environmental Protection Department (www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/water/beach_quality/forecast_system.html), the Beach Water Quality Forecast Index for Golden Beach in Tuen Mun District is 4, which means the predicted water quality at this beach is “Very Poor” due to potential transient water quality fluctuations caused by heavy rain. The red flag has been hoisted, and beachgoers are advised not to enter the water to safeguard their health.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected ketamine worth about $21 million and suspected methamphetamine worth about $2.2 million at airport (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Hong Kong Customs detected two drug trafficking cases involving baggage concealment at Hong Kong International Airport yesterday (July 12) and seized a total of about 47 kilograms of suspected ketamine with an estimated market value of about $21 million and about 4 kilograms of suspected methamphetamine with an estimated market value of about $2.2 million.

    The first case involved a female passenger, aged 58, who arrived in Hong Kong from Frankfurt, Germany, yesterday. During Customs clearance, the suspected ketamine, weighing about 47 kg in total, were found inside her check-in suitcases. The woman was subsequently arrested.

    In the second case, an 18-year-old male passenger arrived in Hong Kong from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia yesterday. During Customs clearance, a total of about 4 kg of suspected methamphetamine were seized in his carry-on suitcase. The man was subsequently arrested.

    The investigation of the first case is ongoing. For the second case, the arrested man has been charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug. The case will be brought up at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Court tomorrow (July 14).

    Customs will continue to step up enforcement against drug trafficking activities through intelligence analysis. The department also reminds members of the public to stay alert and not participate in drug trafficking activities for monetary return. They must not accept hiring or delegation from another party to carry controlled items into and out of Hong Kong. They are also reminded not to carry unknown items for other people.

    Customs will continue to apply a risk assessment approach and focus on selecting passengers from high-risk regions for clearance to combat transnational drug trafficking activities.

    Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.

    Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002/en).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected ketamine worth about $21 million and suspected methamphetamine worth about $2.2 million at airport (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Hong Kong Customs detected two drug trafficking cases involving baggage concealment at Hong Kong International Airport yesterday (July 12) and seized a total of about 47 kilograms of suspected ketamine with an estimated market value of about $21 million and about 4 kilograms of suspected methamphetamine with an estimated market value of about $2.2 million.

    The first case involved a female passenger, aged 58, who arrived in Hong Kong from Frankfurt, Germany, yesterday. During Customs clearance, the suspected ketamine, weighing about 47 kg in total, were found inside her check-in suitcases. The woman was subsequently arrested.

    In the second case, an 18-year-old male passenger arrived in Hong Kong from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia yesterday. During Customs clearance, a total of about 4 kg of suspected methamphetamine were seized in his carry-on suitcase. The man was subsequently arrested.

    The investigation of the first case is ongoing. For the second case, the arrested man has been charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug. The case will be brought up at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Court tomorrow (July 14).

    Customs will continue to step up enforcement against drug trafficking activities through intelligence analysis. The department also reminds members of the public to stay alert and not participate in drug trafficking activities for monetary return. They must not accept hiring or delegation from another party to carry controlled items into and out of Hong Kong. They are also reminded not to carry unknown items for other people.

    Customs will continue to apply a risk assessment approach and focus on selecting passengers from high-risk regions for clearance to combat transnational drug trafficking activities.

    Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.

    Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002/en).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CS to visit Hainan and Heilongjiang

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, will depart for Hainan Province and Harbin, Heilongjiang Province tomorrow morning (July 14) to meet with local leaders to discuss matters of mutual concern and explore ways to strengthen exchanges and co-operation.

    During the visit, Mr Chan will also join activities of Mainland study tours under the Strive and Rise Programme to interact with participating mentees.

    Mr Chan will return to Hong Kong in the afternoon on July 16. During Mr Chan’s absence, the Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Cheuk Wing-hing, will be the Acting Chief Secretary for Administration.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CS to visit Hainan and Heilongjiang

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, will depart for Hainan Province and Harbin, Heilongjiang Province tomorrow morning (July 14) to meet with local leaders to discuss matters of mutual concern and explore ways to strengthen exchanges and co-operation.

    During the visit, Mr Chan will also join activities of Mainland study tours under the Strive and Rise Programme to interact with participating mentees.

    Mr Chan will return to Hong Kong in the afternoon on July 16. During Mr Chan’s absence, the Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Cheuk Wing-hing, will be the Acting Chief Secretary for Administration.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 57th round of computer ballot registration for submitting applications for Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles to be open July 14 to 17

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Transport Department today (July 13) reminded members of the public that the 57th round of computer ballot registration for submitting applications for Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles (the scheme) will be open from 10am tomorrow (July 14) to 11.59pm on July 17, and the ballot result will be announced on July 18.

         Eligible applicants for the scheme can register for computer balloting through the designated website (www.hzmbqfs.gov.hk). Successful balloting applicants are required to submit applications for the scheme within the designated application period.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Rail link briefings to be held

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Highways Department will hold briefing sessions on July 25, August 1 and August 7 – in Shenzhen, Guangzhou and Hong Kong, respectively – to outline details of the Hong Kong section of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link (HSWRL) project and an upcoming invitation of expressions of interest in it.

    A crucial initiative in implementing the Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the HSWRL will run from Hung Shui Kiu to Qianhai, in Shenzhen, enhancing the Greater Bay Area’s infrastructure connectivity and facilitating Hong Kong’s integration into national development.

    Coupled with customs clearance co-location, the project will connect metro networks in Hong Kong’s western regions and those of Shenzhen. A trip from Hung Shui Kiu to Qianhai will take only 15 minutes, approximately, helping to foster a “one-hour living circle” in the bay area and enable convenient cross-boundary commerce, work, residency, study and travel.

    The project will also boost the Northern Metropolis and cater to demand for transportation in Lau Fau Shan, Tsim Bei Tsui, Pak Nai and the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area.

    The Government is undertaking preparations, including design work, for the Hong Kong section of the link. This includes statutory processes such as an environmental impact assessment and publication of plans in the Government Gazette.

    The aim is to have the project ready for tendering in 2027. The shared goal of the governments of Hong Kong and Shenzhen is to commission the HSWRL in 2035.

    Contractors, operators, consultants, railway system suppliers and rolling stock manufacturers are invited to attend the briefing sessions. The deadline for enrolment is July 18.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Text adopted – Tackling China’s critical raw materials export restrictions – P10_TA(2025)0166 – Thursday, 10 July 2025 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament

    The European Parliament,

    –  having regard to its previous resolutions on China,

    –  having regard to the upcoming EU-China summit planned for 24 and 25 July 2025,

    –  having regard to Regulation (EU) 2024/1252 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 April 2024 establishing a framework for ensuring a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials and amending Regulations (EU) No 168/2013, (EU) 2018/858, (EU) 2018/1724 and (EU) 2019/1020(1), also known as the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA),

    –  having regard to Regulation (EU) 2024/1735 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 on establishing a framework of measures for strengthening Europe’s net-zero technology manufacturing ecosystem and amending Regulation (EU) 2018/1724(2)(Net-Zero Industry Act),

    –  having regard to the G7 Leaders’ statement on the G7 Critical Minerals Action Plan,

    –  having regard to the Commission communication of 26 February 2025 entitled ‘The Clean Industrial Deal: A joint roadmap for competitiveness and decarbonisation’ (COM(2025)0085),

    –  having regard to the clean trade and investment partnerships being negotiated by the EU, and to the EU’s critical raw material partnerships,

    –  having regard to the joint communication from the Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy of 20 June 2023 on ‘European Economic Security Strategy’ (JOIN(2023)0020), and to the speeches about de-risking given by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at the European Policy Centre on 30 March 2023 and in Parliament on 18 April 2023,

    –  having regard to the 13th EU-China Strategic Dialogue, held between the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, and the Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, in Brussels on 2 July 2025,

    –  having regard to the statements made by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at the G7 summit held in Kananaskis, Canada from 16 to 17 June 2025,

    –  having regard to World Trade Organization (WTO) rules, in particular the principles of non-discrimination and of transparency regarding export restrictions,

    –  having regard to WTO dispute settlement rulings DS431, DS432 and DS433 on China’s rare earth export restrictions,

    –  having regard to the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights,

    –  having regard to Rule 136(2) and (4) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A.  whereas on 4 April 2025, China started to enact export restrictions on 7 of the 17 rare earth elements (REEs) and on permanent magnets produced from these, introducing a system for non-automatic licences, and cited dual-use and security considerations as justification; whereas the list of items covered by the restrictions includes medium and heavy REEs (samarium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, lutetium, scandium and yttrium);

    B.  whereas critical raw materials are essential inputs for a wide array of industrial products and processes, including in critical sectors such as clean technologies, digital technologies, healthcare and defence; whereas a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials is fundamental to achieving the Union’s climate, digital, competitiveness and defence objectives;

    C.  whereas export volumes have reportedly decreased by as much as 80 %, having a heavy impact on a wide range of sectors, including electronics and consumer tech, green energy and renewables, the automotive industry, aerospace and healthcare;

    D.  whereas the EU’s dependence on China for critical raw materials has continued to grow or, at best, remains stubbornly high; whereas the global REE supply chain is heavily concentrated in China, which has control of around 75 % of mining output and of 85 % of processing capacity, reaching more than 95 % in the case of some REEs such as terbium, yttrium and dysprosium; whereas the EU remains overly reliant on non-EU countries for the supply of critical raw materials (CRMs) and is almost entirely dependent on China for the supply of heavy REEs; whereas the EU covers 98 % of its demand for permanent magnets, and 92 % of its demand for NdFeB magnets, with imports from China;

    E.  whereas China has significantly expanded its dominance in the global mining, processing and refining of CRMs and intermediate products, creating strategic dependences along key value chains, , which have, at times, been deliberately leveraged through restrictive trade measures; whereas China first restricted the export of REEs in 2010 over a territorial dispute with Japan, and this restriction was declared incompatible with WTO rules by the Appellate Body; whereas China has also applied extensive restrictions on the export of raw minerals classified as strategic and/or critical by the EU, including gallium and germanium since 1 August 2023, graphite since December 2023, antimony products since 15 September 2024, tungsten and bismuth since 4 February 2025, and scandium since 17 April 2025;

    F.  whereas the implementation of these export restrictions has already started to cause severe disruptions to industry in the EU, including the automotive industry, with as many as 17 assembly lines experiencing temporary shutdowns in May 2025; whereas a wide array of sectors could face disruption, such as healthcare, space and defence – including fighter jets, frigates, drones and precision-guided weapons systems – wind turbines and batteries, as could the green and digital transitions more generally;

    G.  whereas China’s licensing procedure requires applicants to disclose sensitive information to the Chinese authorities, which breaches economic secrecy; whereas China’s updated export control framework of December 2024 gives greater discretionary powers to the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, the State Council and the Central Military Commission to subject items not formally listed as dual-use goods to export controls; whereas these new regulations include measures with extraterritorial applications;

    H.  whereas the EU applies export controls to certain types of critical and advanced materials, but these controls are clearly focused on material types, with precise technical parameters relating to their use in specific military applications, do not affect trade in commercial non-sensitive products and account for only a small share of total exports of the materials in question;

    I.  whereas China has deliberately pursued a strategy of undercutting global market prices while keeping its domestic market closed, generally to the benefit of state-owned enterprises, and couples this with huge subsidy schemes, leading to significant distortions in global competition and jeopardising recent efforts by the EU and the Member States to keep the EU’s remaining mining sectors afloat;

    J.  whereas the EU adopted the CRMA in April 2024 as the starting point of efforts towards improving the resilience and autonomy of the EU’s supply of CRMs and strategic raw materials (SRMs); whereas the CRMA addresses both the supply side and the demand side, including through production targets, through resource efficiency aimed at moderating consumption, and through the substitution of SRMs; whereas circularity is at the core of the CRMA, which aims to cover 25 % of the Union’s SRM needs through recycling by 2030 and has the objective of recycling substantially larger amounts of each SRM from waste, including for permanent magnets;

    K.  whereas the upcoming EU-China summit is an opportunity to engage in dialogue while continuing to stand strong against coercion;

    L.  whereas China still has sanctions in place against a former MEP, members of Member State parliaments and European think tanks;

    1.  Strongly condemns China’s decision to enact REE export restrictions, which has halted exports and significantly disrupted supply chains vital for the automotive industry, defence manufacturers, semiconductor companies, green technologies, healthcare applications and many other sectors in the EU and across the world; considers that China’s action is unjustified and has a coercive intent, building on the enormous leverage its quasi-monopolistic position on the global market provides;

    2.  Believes that China is using these export restrictions to strengthen its negotiating position; stresses that the EU must firmly reject any attempts by China to use these restrictions to force concessions on other ongoing trade irritants, and believes that any concessions to China in this respect would harm the EU’s ability to protect itself from current and future coercion;

    3.  Underlines the importance of expressing concern regarding China’s export restrictions on REEs and the broader implications of these restrictions for global supply chains at the upcoming EU-China summit; is convinced that export controls should be part of a multilateral approach designed to protect international security and ensure a global level playing field, insists that unilateral controls must be limited to those made strictly necessary by national security considerations, with transparent and clearly defined rules, and therefore stresses that making China’s actions run counter to multilateral rules and practices, and calls on the Commission and the Member States to take a firm and unified stance, engage with China to find a structural solution and continue dialogue with China in this regard;

    4.  Urges the Chinese authorities to follow up tangibly on their proposal and fully lift the export restrictions; takes note, in the meantime, of the recent proposal by the Chinese authorities to establish so-called ‘green lanes’ aimed at simplifying procedures for European companies;

    5.  Stresses the urgent need for the EU to enhance its strategic leverage and indispensability by identifying, operationalising and strengthening areas in which it holds critical advantages over China in essential goods and technologies, with the objective of strengthening the EU’s strategic autonomy, or by limiting access to the EU internal market for high-risk Chinese vendors in accordance with EU and international trade law;

    6.  Considers China’s measures to be an unjustified weaponisation of its CRM supply lines, rendering it an untrustworthy source of input for critical sectors and a threat to the Union’s economic and essential security interests;

    7.  Expresses deep concern over the requirements, imposed by Chinese authorities, that applicants must disclose sensitive data when applying for export permits, and over the considerable risk of technology leaks associated with this as regards the defence industrial base value chain and national security secrets, stressing that this may be used for future coercion; considers it essential for the Commission and the Member States to assess and mitigate the security implications of such data transfers, in line with the European economic security strategy;

    8.  Urges the Commission and the Member States to accelerate the implementation of the CRMA; stresses the important role of the European Raw Materials Board and its sub-groups for the rapid and efficient implementation of the CRMA; recalls the clear and ambitious targets set to reinforce EU capacities to extract, process and recycle SRMs domestically by 2030; highlights the selection of the first 60 strategic projects under the CRMA;

    9.  Regrets the fact that the CRMA was not accompanied by a dedicated EU budget, despite the lack of funding being the main bottleneck; stresses the urgent need to secure investments in the strategic projects approved under the CRMA and in other projects to boost extraction, refining, processing and recycling that contribute to de-risking from China and to achieving the CRMA benchmarks; urges the Commission to dedicate further EU-level support to the diversification of the REE and CRM supply, and to guarantee that the forthcoming multiannual financial framework will include a budget line to foster investment in extraction, processing, circularity, research and innovation, including for the substitution of CRMs;

    10.  Underlines the need for the EU to mine domestically and re-establish processing capacity; underlines that increasing the efficiency of resource use through technological innovation is one of the objectives of the CRMA; emphasises the potential of recycling and urban mining to alleviate supply constraints in the short term and asks the Commission to take immediate measures to improve the collection and retention of REEs in the internal market;

    11.  Underlines the need to ensure the long-term business case for and the viability of investments in CRM value chains, including through financial support such as price floors, offtake support and strategic stockpiling; calls on the Member States to request that large companies producing technologies in strategic sectors duly and regularly carry out risk-preparedness activities and measures to mitigate supply shortages, including via stockpiling;

    12.  Calls on the Commission, together with the Member States, to assess the minimum level for the EU of strategic stocks of REEs listed as SRMs (neodymium, praseodymium, terbium, dysprosium, gadolinium, samarium and cerium) and the corresponding end-use applications, including those linked to the defence industry;

    13.  Calls, furthermore, for stronger engagement to conclude clean trade and investment partnerships (CTIPs) and bilateral strategic partnerships on raw materials that are based on true win-win partnerships and meet high sustainability and human rights standards; insists on the need to move towards binding agreements on CRMs to ensure the long-term security of the EU’s supplies, guarantee more transparency and ensure that Parliament has scrutiny powers; underlines the importance of free trade agreements and the Global Gateway initiative in enhancing access to CRMs;

    14.  Encourages the use of preference clauses for sourcing REEs from EU suppliers and trusted partners in relevant procurement legislation; calls for greater coordination with like-minded international partners, particularly within the G7 and NATO frameworks and with the Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security, in order to improve knowledge transfer, align supply chain security, joint investments and stockpiling strategies, and develop trusted-source standards for strategic sectors and projects;

    15.  Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the governments and parliaments of the Member States and the Government and Parliament of the People’s Republic of China.

    (1) OJ L, 2024/1252, 3.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1252/oj.
    (2) OJ L, 2024/1735, 28.6.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1735/oj.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Watch: Statements by Board of Governors in Opening Ceremony of NDB 2025 Annual Meeting

    Source: New Development Bank

    Videos

    H.E. Mrs. Dilma Rousseff

    President of the New Development Bank

    H.E. Mr. Anton Siluanov

    Minister of Finance of the Russian Federation and the NDB Governor for Russia

    H.E. Mrs. Nirmala Sitharaman

    Minister of Finance of the Republic of India and the NDB Governor for India

    H.E. Mr. LAN Fo’an

    Minister of Finance of the People’s Republic of China and the NDB Governor for China

    Dr. David Masondo

    Deputy Minister of Finance of the Republic of South Africa and the NDB Alternate Governor for South Africa

    Mr. Md. Shahriar Kader Siddiky

    Secretary, Economic Relations Division, Ministry of Finance of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh and the NDB Alternate Governor for Bangladesh

    Mr. Ali Sharafi

    Acting Assistant Undersecretary for International Financial Relations Sector, Ministry of Finance of the United Arab Emirates and the NDB Temporary Alternate Governor for the United Arab Emirates

    Mr. Atter Hannoura

    Director of the PPP Central Unit, Ministry Director of the PPP Central Unit, Ministry of Finance of Egypt of the Arab Republic of Egypt and the NDB Temporary Alternate Governor for Egyptof Finance of Egypt of the Arab Republic of Egypt and the NDB Temporary Alternate Governor for Egypt

    H.E. Mr. Abdelaziz Benali Cherif

    Ambassador of Algeria to Brazil

    H.E. Mr. Fernando Haddad

    Minister of Finance of the Federative Republic of Brazil and the NDB Governor for Brazil

    New Development Bank Tenth Annual Meeting

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Diplomacy in the digital age: Foreign Secretary’s speech, July 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Speech

    Diplomacy in the digital age: Foreign Secretary’s speech, July 2025

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy delivered a speech on diplomacy in the digital age whilst in Singapore.

    It’s great to be here today.  

    As you have heard, I recently marked 25 years as a member of Parliament and this week one year as Foreign Secretary. It’s a pleasure to visit your great country following your sixtieth birthday as a nation. 

    Whenever I’ve come to Singapore and the wider ASEAN region, I’m struck by the innovative spirit, the creativity and the optimism.  

    Sixty years ago, Prime Minister Harold Wilson talked of the “white heat of technology” transforming British society and industry. Today, the whole world is being radically reconfigured by technology, but nowhere faster, or more successfully, than here.  

    I’m particularly pleased to be here after my second ASEAN foreign ministers meeting in Malaysia. In Laos last year, I promised to reconnect Britain to the Indo-Pacific and that is well underway.  

    In just over a year, I’ve made 5 visits spanning 10 countries to the region. I’ve no doubt this will rise during my time in this job.   

    The Indo-Pacific matters to the UK. ASEAN will be the world’s fastest-growing economic bloc over the next decade. Your investments into Britain like Malaysian firm SMD Semiconductor’s new R&D hub in Wales, your market of 700 million consumers are a huge part of our growth ambitions.  

    Over the past year, we have been delivering on our promise to bring our economies closer together. Our CPTPP membership now ratified, our free trade agreement with India now signed our Industrial and Trade Strategies now published all speak to a hugely ambitious future for Britain in the Indo-Pacific.  

    But we want to go much further.  We’re working with ASEAN on their Power Grid and economic resilience.  We support CPTPP widening, deepening, and starting dialogues with trading blocs like ASEAN and the EU.  

    We are exploring other agreements, too, like a deeper FTA with South Korea or accession to the Digital Economic Partnership Agreement which Singapore co-founded. Today’s ‘digital trade’ will tomorrow simply be ‘trade’, and Britain is committed to making it faster, cheaper and easier. 

    As you in Singapore know very well this region is the crucible for global security. Partner countries like Britain must stand up for an open, stable and rules-based international system because our region’s security and your region’s security are inextricably linked. 

    Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine drove market turbulence in Asia. Any major supply chain disruption in Asia could push prices up in Britain. If we have learnt one lesson over the past decade, it is that economic security does not respect borders.  

    That is why Britain’s new National Security Strategy recommitted to the vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Our Carrier Strike Group recently sailed through your waters – a deployment involving 12 other nations.  

    We’re deepening our many regional security partnerships including AUKUS and the Five Power Defence Arrangements. 

    HMS Prince of Wales, as we’ve heard, is participating in Exercise Bersama Lima in September and the Malaysian chair kindly invited me to the ASEAN Regional Forum just yesterday, where I underlined British support for ASEAN centrality and our growing cooperation against transnational crime and illicit finance. 

    In Singapore, you have proven over generations that it is not size which determines success it is strategic clarity. This is true of technology more than any other area. Singapore has shown what’s possible when digital innovation is matched with long-term thinking and national purpose.  

    Back in 1981, when most of us were still working out what a computer was, your leaders set up a National Computerisation Committee. In 2014, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong launched the whole-of-government Smart Nation initiative. Then in 2019, Teo Chee Hean unveiled a National AI Strategy.  

    Each time, your leaders were ahead of the game. Each time there was a broader lesson. Singapore didn’t get ahead by throwing money at the private sector and hoping for the best.

    Instead, you built serious public capability like SingPass, thanks to deep technical expertise inside government and investments in areas like compute and data infrastructure.  

    Starting in this job, I said that Britain needed to do more listening and less lecturing. A huge part of my trip this week has been to listen and, I hope, learn lessons on how we can pursue a similarly long-term strategy embracing technology. That vision must include specific focus on the intersection of AI and diplomacy.  

    This is not yet a staple of foreign ministry and foreign ministers’ discussions at least in my experience. But I believe that unless we lift our heads above the rat-race of crises and summits and examine the longer-term trends reshaping our world we will be boiled like the proverbial frog.   

    AI is not just the next rung in the technological ladder. It will deliver a paradigm shift in the distribution and exercise of power. It will redefine how nations project influence how threats emerge and how we defend ourselves. It will therefore transform how diplomacy is conducted. 

    As Prime Minister Wong said earlier this year: “The once-rising tide of global cooperation that defined the past decades is giving way to one of growing competition and distrust.  As a result, the world is becoming more fragmented and disorderly”.

    There is much evidence of emerging technology catalysing the deterioration of both domestic and international norms. AI is at the spearhead of hybrid threats like disinformation. It is not enough for responsible states to complain about others’ reckless behaviour.  

    If we do not invest in gaining technological edge then our influence will inevitably decline. So today I want to outline a more hopeful vision of a sovereign, AI-enabled foreign policy. 

    I am proud of the role British diplomacy played at the Bletchley AI Safety Summit, our creation of the AI Security Institute, our plans for a new counter-hybrid taskforce in the FCDO to ready us for this new age. 

    I’m pleased also to see our work with Singapore in areas such as Responsible AI in the Military Realm and with ASEAN on AI for development. 

    But there has been little discussion between Britain and partners in the Indo-Pacific and beyond on how to use AI and advanced technology to make our diplomacy more effective.   

    I am determined to address this gap as Foreign Secretary, bringing AI to the centre of the FCDO’s policy machine. Like most foreign ministries, too many Foreign Office practices have changed little over the past half century. But the old levers of government – briefings, memos, lengthy debates on drafting – are too slow and cumbersome for the pace of modern statecraft.  

    In an age of ever-accelerating speed and complexity we need the tools to match. Let me be clear: AI will obviously not solve foreign policy. It will not eliminate risk, nor remove the need for careful human judgement and the ability of people to build trusting relationships, as I have been doing with ASEAN partners this week.  

    Diplomacy in 2025 needs machine speed and a human touch. It can help us to make better decisions amidst rising uncertainty. It can improve our ability to detect early signals of crisis, to simulate the likely effects of policy choices and to respond with speed and confidence. 

    Imagine for a moment an AI-powered unit at the heart of a foreign ministry. That could catalyse patterns of military movement, energy flows, and online narratives, model how a diplomatic crisis in one part of the world will have ripple effects elsewhere, red-team our response to a crisis – attacking our own policies before others can. Or flag emerging risks that human analysts might miss, especially when they emerge in grey zones favoured by adversaries.

    These capabilities are not science fiction. They are already being employed. The United States’ DARPA and KAIROS projects already simulate complex political developments and anticipate conflict escalation. Estonia’s STRATCOM Centre uses AI-enabled systems to detect disinformation campaigns in real time.  

    Of course, Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry uses predictive analytics to flag risks to critical supply chains. 

    The question before us is not whether AI will shape foreign policy. It is who will shape it, and how.  

    In the British Foreign Office, this government is investing £290 million in reforming our Department, helping to equip our teams with the capabilities and technologies that the modern era demands.

    But outside of the United States and China, no country has the scale to deliver all the capabilities we need independently.  

    My call today is therefore for more collaboration, more AI diplomacy within a perimeter of values. I want partners such as Britain and Singapore to align standards, share tools and develop models that reflect our shared principles.  

    Deep bilateral partnerships will be at the core of Britain’s approach. For us, our special relationship with the United States will remain foundational rooted in particular on our deep security links.  

    With the European Union, we can pursue AI cooperation through the prism of foreign policy and security, not just regulation, and I will be discussing this with Kaja Kallas as part of our recently agreed Security and Defence Partnership.  

    With India through the ‘Technology Security Initiative’ we agreed last year, we will focus collaboration more sharply in critical and emerging technologies.  

    And with other Indo-Pacific partners I hope that we can build on initiatives like the UK-ASEAN AI Innovation Summit later this year and extend cooperation to AI-enabled foreign policy.  

    I said that you in Singapore have shown the power of long-term thinking. The importance of a long-term vision, and I hope we can apply that same approach to breaking down the silos between foreign policy and technology.  

    We live in a volatile world. Technology is reshaping our societies, making power more diffuse. Nations like Britain and Singapore need to equip ourselves with the tools to navigate these shifts and that means fusing AI and diplomacy, focusing on a long view of change and doubling down on our shared interests.  

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 12 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Candidates for the title of “Ambassadors of Russian Education and Science” have been approved

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    A key meeting of the Council of the Consortium of Educational and Scientific Organizations was held, dedicated to the approval of candidates for the honorary title of “Ambassador of Russian Education and Science”. In February 2023, an agreement was signed on the consortium for the implementation of the “Ambassadors of Russian Education and Science” program, among its participants is the Polytechnic University. The session considered 21 submissions from 12 Russian universities. The Polytechnic nominated Liu Wei (China) and Issa Togo (Mali).

    The activities of both candidates have been promoting Russian education abroad for decades. Secretary General of the Institute of Russia at Tsinghua University Liu Wei has been overseeing scientific and technical cooperation with the Russian Federation since 2002. Dozens of projects have been implemented under her leadership, including Russian-Chinese dialogues on innovation, the creation of Russian language testing centers, and youth competitions.

    A 1985 graduate of the Leningrad Polytechnic Institute, associate professor at SPbPU and Honorary Consul of Mali in St. Petersburg, Issa Togo coordinates academic ties with African universities, participates in the reform of higher education in Mali and heads a large-scale hydroelectric project.

    The consortium council unanimously approved the candidates, sending the documents for final approval to the Russian Ministry of Education and Science. If successful, Liu Wei and Issa Togo will join the ranks of 24 current ambassadors from 22 countries.

    “Liu Wei and Issa Togo are not just allies, but living bridges between cultures. Their dedication to education is the polytechnic spirit in action: when a graduate, wherever he is, continues to carry the banner of his alma mater. We are proud that it is our candidates who set the tone in promoting Russian values abroad. Their recognition is an investment in the future, where science and education know no boundaries,” commented Dmitry Arsenyev, Vice-Rector for International Affairs at SPbPU.

    Under the program “Ambassadors of Russian Education and Science”, which unites 44 universities of the country, since 2023, 24 experts from Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America have been awarded the title. Polytechnic University is traditionally among the most active participants in the initiative.

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Trade Policy updated to benefit citizens and allies

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    UK Trade Policy updated to benefit citizens and allies

    Boost for British consumers and Developing Countries as UK launches new trade measures

    • New measures will make it easier for developing countries to trade, supporting jobs and economic growth in the UK overseas. 
    • UK businesses and consumers to benefit from more competitively priced imports as part of upgrades to the Developing Countries Trading Scheme. 
    • Part of the UK’s Plan for Change and recently launched Trade Strategy to grow trade with markets of the future, strengthen global partnerships and deliver for British households. 

    British consumers and businesses are set to benefit from a package of new trade measures unveiled today (10 July), which will simplify imports from developing countries — helping to lower prices on everyday goods while supporting jobs and growth in some of the world’s poorest nations.

    The measures will give UK consumers greater access to competitively priced imports — from clothes to food and electronics — as upgrades to the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS) make it easier for businesses to trade with the UK, helping to lower prices on the high street.

    Upgrades include simplified rules of origin, enabling more goods from countries like Nigeria, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines to enter the UK tariff-free — even when using components from across Asia and Africa. They also ensure countries such as Bangladesh and Cambodia continue to benefit with zero tariffs on products like garments and electronics.

    This will open up new commercial opportunities for UK businesses to build resilient supply chains, invest in emerging markets, and tap into fast-growing economies.

    Ministers briefed British business leaders and Ambassadors from around the world on the changes at a joint Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) reception in London today.

    Minister for International Development Jenny Chapman, said: 

    The world is changing. Countries in the Global South want a different relationship with the UK as a trading partner and investor, not as a donor.

    These new rules will make it easier for developing countries to trade more closely with the UK. This is good for their economies and for UK consumers and businesses.

    Minister for Trade Policy Douglas Alexander, said: 

    No country has ever lifted itself out of poverty without trading with its neighbours.

    Over recent decades trade has been an essential ingredient in lifting hundreds of millions of people out of poverty around the globe.

    The DCTS allows some of the world’s poorest countries to export to the UK duty and quota-free, with over £16 billion in UK imports benefiting from tariff savings since its launch in June 2023.

    In addition to the DCTS changes, the UK will:

    • offer targeted support to help exporters in developing countries access the UK market and meet import standards; and
    • make it easier for partner countries to trade services — such as digital, legal, and financial services — by strengthening future trade agreements. This will create new opportunities for UK businesses to collaborate and invest in fast-growing sectors. 

    The reforms will support trade with emerging markets in Asia and Africa, strengthening the UK’s global partnerships, with major retailers such as M&S and Primark expected to benefit.  

    Director of Sourcing, Marks & Spencer PLC, Monique Leeuwenburgh said:

    We are supportive of changes to the DCTS rules of origin for garments.

    The ongoing collaboration between the government and retail industry has provided clarity and certainty for businesses in good time.

    This change will enable us to maintain our long-standing and trusted relationships with our key partners in Bangladesh, to deliver the same great quality Clothing & Home products at great value for our customers.

    Interim Chief Executive at Primark, Eoin Tonge said:

    We welcome the changes to the DCTS rules of origin for garments which remove the potential cliff edge when a country graduates from Least Developed Country status.

    This will help us to maintain our existing supply chain strategy in our key sourcing markets in Asia, such as Bangladesh and Cambodia.

    We welcome the opportunity to collaborate with the government on these changes and their responsiveness to the concerns of UK retailers in this very technical area of trade policy.

    Adam Mansell, CEO, The UK Fashion & Textiles Association said said:

    UKFT welcomes these additional changes to the Rules of Origin under the DCTS, which will bring real benefits to the fashion industry in the UK and in DCTS countries.

    The new rules demonstrate a genuine commitment from the government to modernise trade policy to support global economic growth.

    At a time of such uncertainty in international trade, these reforms are especially welcome.

    Yohan Lawrence, Secretary General of the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF), Sri Lanka, said:

    We warmly welcome the UK’s Trade Strategy.

    The new rules allowing greater regional sourcing for garments while retaining duty-free access to the UK are a game-changer.

    With the UK as our second-largest apparel market, this will boost exports, support livelihoods, and help us compete more fairly with global competitors.

    The updated rules are part of the UK’s wider Trade for Development offer which aims to support economic growth in partner countries while helping UK businesses and consumers access high-quality, affordable goods. 

    And just last month, the UK’s Trade Strategy was published in further support of the Plan for Change to grow the economy, strengthen international ties, and deliver for households across the UK. 

    Notes to editors: 

    • Launched in 2023, following the UK’s exit from the EU, the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS) is the UK’s flagship trade preference scheme, covering 65 countries and offering reduced or zero tariffs on thousands of products. 
    • The UK is committed to growing services trade with developing countries, supporting digital trade and professional services. 
    • The announcement follows engagement with UK businesses and international partners, major importers and trade associations.

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Fatal helicopter incident – Gapuwiyak

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police are investigating a fatal helicopter incident that occurred in Gapuwiyak this afternoon.

    Around 2:00pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports that a helicopter carrying two occupants had made an emergency landing at the Lake Evella airstrip after the aircraft struck a bird. The impact allegedly caused the bird to fatally strike a 44-year-old male passenger.

    The pilot was able to land the aircraft safely and was uninjured.

    Police and St John Ambulance attended the scene; however, the 44-year-old male was declared deceased.

    A report will be prepared for the coroner.

    NT WorkSafe and the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) have been notified.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: UFLY Capital Delivers 6.25% Net Return and 20.05% Annualized IRR in H1 2025, Surpassing S&P 500 and Bitcoin

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — UFLY Capital is proud to report a strong performance for the first half of 2025, achieving a net return of 6.25% (after management fees) and an annualized internal rate of return (IRR) of 20.05% as of June 30. This performance notably outpaced key benchmarks, including the S&P 500 (+4.21%) and Bitcoin (~+7.5%).

    Founded by the co-founders of UXLINK along with a group of seasoned investors and entrepreneurs, UFLY Capital—through its venture arm UFLY Labs—is committed to supporting the UXLINK ecosystem and advancing early-stage innovation across blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI).

    H1 2025 Highlights:

    • Successfully completed full regulatory compliance and CIMA registration
    • Maintained high-conviction, long-term positions in Bitcoin (BTC), AI, and UXLINK
    • Employed a barbell strategy across traditional finance, including strategic allocations to U.S. and Hong Kong equities, USD-denominated bonds, and gold
    • Invested in 23 high-potential Web3 and AI projects—with 60% having conducted token generation events (TGEs) and 40% currently listed on top-tier exchanges such as Binance, OKX, Bybit, UPbit, and Bithumb
    • Leveraged the UXLINK global community to provide a robust ecosystem advantage and accelerate portfolio growth

    Strategic Outlook for H2 2025:

    • Continued strategic exposure to Bitcoin and UXLINK, with a focus on selective primary market opportunities
    • Increased allocations toward Nasdaq-listed technology stocks and high-growth Hong Kong tech equities
    • Strengthened support for XerpaAI, a next-generation AI platform designed to scale emerging tech ventures
    • Ongoing investments in high-yield, long-duration USD bonds to ensure stable cash flow, coupled with expanded gold holdings to mitigate inflation risk

    “UFLY Capital remains committed to disciplined investing with a focus on innovation, compliance, and sustainable value creation,” said Neal Wong,Co founder and Limited Partner, uflycapital “We continue to position ourselves at the intersection of blockchain, AI, and traditional finance, leveraging global communities and market insight to drive long-term performance.”

    For media inquiries or additional information,

    Please contact:
    https://www.uflycapital.com/
    ir@uflycapital.com

    Media Contact:

    Rachita Chettri
    rachita@mediax.agency

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by UFLY Capital . The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7c36b1b4-4290-4b35-ac89-adaa02d59f6b

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: UFLY Capital Delivers 6.25% Net Return and 20.05% Annualized IRR in H1 2025, Surpassing S&P 500 and Bitcoin

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — UFLY Capital is proud to report a strong performance for the first half of 2025, achieving a net return of 6.25% (after management fees) and an annualized internal rate of return (IRR) of 20.05% as of June 30. This performance notably outpaced key benchmarks, including the S&P 500 (+4.21%) and Bitcoin (~+7.5%).

    Founded by the co-founders of UXLINK along with a group of seasoned investors and entrepreneurs, UFLY Capital—through its venture arm UFLY Labs—is committed to supporting the UXLINK ecosystem and advancing early-stage innovation across blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI).

    H1 2025 Highlights:

    • Successfully completed full regulatory compliance and CIMA registration
    • Maintained high-conviction, long-term positions in Bitcoin (BTC), AI, and UXLINK
    • Employed a barbell strategy across traditional finance, including strategic allocations to U.S. and Hong Kong equities, USD-denominated bonds, and gold
    • Invested in 23 high-potential Web3 and AI projects—with 60% having conducted token generation events (TGEs) and 40% currently listed on top-tier exchanges such as Binance, OKX, Bybit, UPbit, and Bithumb
    • Leveraged the UXLINK global community to provide a robust ecosystem advantage and accelerate portfolio growth

    Strategic Outlook for H2 2025:

    • Continued strategic exposure to Bitcoin and UXLINK, with a focus on selective primary market opportunities
    • Increased allocations toward Nasdaq-listed technology stocks and high-growth Hong Kong tech equities
    • Strengthened support for XerpaAI, a next-generation AI platform designed to scale emerging tech ventures
    • Ongoing investments in high-yield, long-duration USD bonds to ensure stable cash flow, coupled with expanded gold holdings to mitigate inflation risk

    “UFLY Capital remains committed to disciplined investing with a focus on innovation, compliance, and sustainable value creation,” said Neal Wong,Co founder and Limited Partner, uflycapital “We continue to position ourselves at the intersection of blockchain, AI, and traditional finance, leveraging global communities and market insight to drive long-term performance.”

    For media inquiries or additional information,

    Please contact:
    https://www.uflycapital.com/
    ir@uflycapital.com

    Media Contact:

    Rachita Chettri
    rachita@mediax.agency

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by UFLY Capital . The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7c36b1b4-4290-4b35-ac89-adaa02d59f6b

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: National economic development zones play key role in attracting foreign investment

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

    National economic development zones play key role in attracting foreign investment

    BEIJING, July 14 — Since their establishment over 40 years ago, China’s national economic development zones have made opening up a top priority, and have been at the “first echelon” in promoting foreign trade and attracting foreign investment, said Ji Xiaofeng, an official with the Ministry of Commerce.

    Over the four decades, these zones have made continuous efforts in self-improvement and have been committed to creating a high-quality, law-based business environment, Ji said on the latest episode of the China Economic Roundtable, the all-media talk show hosted by Xinhua News Agency.

    By the end of 2024, China had established 232 national economic development zones, which together host more than 60,000 foreign-invested companies.

    Among these, Japanese electronics giant Panasonic was one of the earliest foreign investors in the Chinese market. Today, it has three subsidiaries in Suzhou Industrial Park, located in east China’s Jiangsu Province.

    According to an annual ranking released by the commerce ministry, Suzhou Industrial Park ranked first among all national economic development zones in China in terms of development level at the end of 2024, maintaining its leading position for the ninth consecutive year.

    “The industrial park’s location, industrial chain, and policy support make it very attractive to us and have greatly benefited our investment and development not only in Suzhou, but across China as a whole,” said Zhao Bingdi, president of Panasonic China.

    By offering highly professional services, such as facilitating government-business exchanges, the industrial park is dedicated to helping companies improve operational efficiency and stay informed about the latest policy measures, Zhao said.

    In May, the commerce ministry unveiled a work plan to further deepen reform and innovation in national economic development zones, marking one of China’s latest moves to strengthen the role of these zones in promoting high-level opening up.

    “We have been a witness to and a beneficiary of China’s reform and opening up. As the country shifts toward high-quality development, we remain committed to our ongoing growth here,” Zhao said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese and Foreign Experts Discuss Sustainable Development of the SCO in Shanghai

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    SHANGHAI, July 14 (Xinhua) — The SCO Think Tank Forum 2025, themed “Promoting Sustainable Development Guided by the Shanghai Spirit,” was held from Saturday to Sunday at the SCO Center for International Legal Training and Cooperation (China) based at the Shanghai University of Political Science and Law.

    Nearly 100 experts and scholars from leading universities and think tanks in China and abroad attended the forum. They held in-depth exchanges of views on the issues of “SCO and the Transformation of the Global Governance System,” “SCO’s Own Construction and Reform,” “Striving for Sustainable Common Security,” “Inclusiveness, Win-Win, Mutually Beneficial Cooperation, and Striving for Common Prosperity,” “Searching for Universal Values in the Diversity of Civilizations,” and “Development Prospects for the SCO.”

    Rector of Shanghai University of Political Science and Law, Director of the Office of the Center for International Legal Training and Cooperation of the SCO /China/ Liu Xiaohong noted that over the past 20 years, guided by the “Shanghai Spirit”, the SCO has achieved significant success in regional security, economic cooperation and humanitarian exchanges and serves as an important example of a new type of regional cooperation mechanism. She also expressed hope that the forum will give new impetus to regional cooperation.

    According to Sun Zhuangzhi, Director of the Institute of Russia, Eastern Europe and Central Asia at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), the launch of the “SCO Year of Sustainable Development” within the framework of China’s rotating chairmanship of the SCO will contribute to the development of global governance in a more just and rational direction and will make the SCO’s contribution to promoting peace and development throughout the world.

    Speaking at the event, former SCO Secretary-General Vladimir Norov suggested that SCO think tanks focus on priority tasks, including aligning national strategies for transport infrastructure development, developing a unified mechanism for monitoring carbon emissions with the involvement of national environmental agencies, and expanding research into SCO humanitarian diplomacy, which, he said, not only reflect the realities of the current geopolitical and economic context, but also outline a concrete agenda that can transform the SCO from a platform of declarations into a mechanism for practical solutions.

    The forum was jointly organized by the Shanghai University of Political Science and Law, the SCO Center for International Legal Training and Cooperation (China), the China Institute of International Studies (CIIS) and the China Center for SCO Studies. -0-

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China invites Chinese and foreign journalists to cover events in Beijing to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 14 (Xinhua) — Journalists from China and abroad have been invited to cover events in Beijing to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War.

    The online registration system will be available at http://kzjn80reg.zgjx.cn from July 15 to July 29, 2025.

    Overseas journalists, as well as journalists from the Hong Kong SAR, Macao SAR and Taiwan, can apply for accreditation through the system.

    For the convenience of journalists, a press center will be operating in Beijing during the events, providing services such as holding press conferences and briefings, coordinating interviews, and distributing updated news through the official website and its Wechat account. -0-

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A magnitude 6.9 earthquake has struck off the coast of Indonesia’s Maluku province

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    JAKARTA, July 14 (Xinhua) — An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.9 jolted waters southwest of Southeast Maluku Regency in Indonesia’s Maluku Province at 12:49 p.m. Monday local time, the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) said.

    The epicentre was located approximately 170 km southwest of Southeast Maluku, with the hypocentre at a depth of 108 km, BMKG reported on its website.

    Due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, Indonesia is often subject to seismic activity. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Samsung Ads and Kantar Study Highlights the Growing Role of Connected TVs in Driving Purchase Intent

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung Ads, in collaboration with Kantar, released a groundbreaking white paper titled ‘Beyond Awareness’, which aims to establish the role of Connected TV (CTV) advertising ecosystem in driving critical brand KPIs. This study is among the first from an OEM Connected TV player to deliver robust, data-driven insights into mid-to-lower funnel metrics, offering advertisers clear evidence of how Connected TV drives brand favourability and purchase intent.
     
    The study analyzed over 100 brand lift studies conducted by Kantar for campaigns on Samsung Smart TVs across various industries and demographics. With independent validation from Kantar, the research brings unprecedented clarity and confidence to advertisers investing in Connected TV. Campaigns were assessed using brand lift metrics including brand favourability, message association, online Ad awareness, and purchase intent, providing a clear picture of the power of Connected TVs in influencing real consumer behaviour.
     

     
    Sharing her insights Bhavna Saincher, Head, Insights and Client Solutions, Samsung Ads India, said, “The ‘Beyond Awareness’ study emphaises the growing importance of Connected TVs as a pivotal touch point for driving awareness and consideration, all while amplifying visibility and generating positive outcomes for brands engaging with their audience on the big screen. I am confident that the high engagement of the Gen Z signals a major opportunity for brands seeking impact with a digitally-native, decision-ready audience.”
     

     
    The research further highlights that among audiences exposed to advertisements on Samsung Smart TVs, the Gen Z (18–24 Y.O.) showed the highest uplift across key metrics like 9.1% in brand favourability and 8.5% in purchase intent. This demonstrates their strong engagement and responsiveness, making them a pivotal audience segment in the Connected TV ecosystem. The other key findings from them include:
     

    7.9% Uplift in Consideration: Analysis of over 100 brand lift studies shows that Connected TV campaigns on Samsung Smart TVs deliver a significant 7.9% uplift in consumer consideration, with Gen Z audiences experiencing up to an 8.5% increase in purchase behaviour

     

    Doubled Impact with Optimized Frequency: Campaigns that reach audiences four or more times see up to double the impact across all key performance indicators (KPIs), underscoring the strategic importance of optimal ad frequency in driving results

     

    Broad Industry Success & Demographic Versatility: Connected TV advertising delivers substantial uplifts across diverse sectors including consumer products, technology, automotive, apparel, and home solutions and proves highly effective among both the Gen Z and the 35+ age groups

     
    Ebu Isaac, Vice President, Insights Division, Kantar, said, “As Connected TV matures into a full-funnel marketing channel, this study provides compelling evidence of its strategic value—particularly in driving favourability and purchase intent among younger audiences. Connected TV emerges as a critical platform that combines precision, scale, and measurable impact, as advertisers seek to build meaningful connections with the Gen Z.”
     

     

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: India’s Top Gamers Compete in Samsung’s #PlayGalaxy Cup Season 4; Delhi AI Legends Crowned Champions

    Source: Samsung

    Aditya Babbar, VP, MX Business, handing over the trophy to Delhi AI Legends, the winners of the #PlayGalaxy Cup Season 4
     
    Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today announced the fourth season of #PlayGalaxy Cup – with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7. Top gamers from across the country participated in the nailbiting contest, with Delhi AI Legends (featuring Techno Gamerz) being crowned as the coveted champion.
     
    The #PlayGalaxy Cup 4.0 was livestreamed on Samsung India’s YouTube channel and select Samsung exclusive stores across the country – and reached over 350 million+ users. The #PlayGalaxy Cup has grown into one of India’s most anticipated esports events, with the fourth edition witnessing participation from 48 top gamers and creators. The event witnessed head-to-head participation between the gamers for around four and a half hours.
     
    The winning team – Delhi AI Legends – featured top gamers and creators from the country such as Techno Gamerz, iPreet, Mayur Gaming and Tahir Feugo FF
     
    “At Samsung, we’re proud to empower India’s vibrant esports community with Galaxy devices designed for high-performance gaming. It’s a remarkable achievement that within a span of two years, we’ve brought so many people together under one platform – #PlayGalaxy Cup – which has now entered its fourth edition. More than just a gaming tournament, the #PlayGalaxy Cup has become a celebration of skill, passion and innovation, and this season we’ve taken it to the next level with even bigger battles and exclusive experiences – thanks to the most powerful foldable from Samsung – the Galaxy ZFold7. The stellar performance, the reduced thickness and lighter weight of the device provide an immersive experience like no other,” said Aditya Babbar, Vice President, MX Business, Samsung India.
     
    The winning team – Delhi AI Legends – featured top gamers and creators from the country such as Techno Gamerz, iPreet, Mayur Gaming and Tahir Feugo FF. Finishing as the first runners up were Guwahati Galaxy Guardians (Soneeta, Desi Chora, Wariya Gaming and GW Manish) while Ahmedabad AI Avengers (Regaltos, Trevo Gaming, OP Chiku & Ashi is Live) were the second runners up for the tournament conducted in New Delhi.
     
    The fourth season of #PlayGalaxy Cup 4.0 witnessed intense game play, thanks to the thinner, lighter and more powerful Galaxy Fold7, powered by the flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. Samsung is committed to transforming the experience for every gamer, with a dedicated line-up of smartphones that offer premium, gaming-optimized features to ensure smooth visuals and precise gameplay.
     

    MIL OSI Global Banks –