NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI China: China says response to Japanese planes’ actions reasonable, professional 2025-07-13 16:37:08 The response of Chinese military aircraft to the Japanese planes repeatedly conducting close reconnaissance in the East China Sea Air Defense Identification Zone was entirely reasonable and professional, a Chinese defense spokesman said on Sunday morning.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      By JIANG CHENGLONG

      The response of Chinese military aircraft to the Japanese planes repeatedly conducting close reconnaissance in the East China Sea Air Defense Identification Zone was entirely reasonable and professional, a Chinese defense spokesman said on Sunday morning.

      In a statement, Defense Ministry spokesman Jiang Bin noted that recently, Japan Air Self-Defense Force’s reconnaissance planes entered China’s ADIZ in the East China Sea for close-in reconnaissance multiple times.

      “Chinese aircraft responded by verifying, identifying, following, and monitoring them according to the law,” he said, highlighting that those actions were “fully justified, reasonable, professional and standardized”.

      Jiang emphasized that the Japanese aircraft’s close-in reconnaissance and interference were the root causes of Sino-Japanese air and sea safety risks.

      The spokesman expressed hope that the Japanese side will work with the Chinese side to create a proper atmosphere for the stable development of bilateral relations.

    loading…

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Indonesia plans to rewrite its national history: A return to an incomplete narrative?

    Source: The Conversation – Indonesia – By Adrian Perkasa, Peneliti Pascadoktoral, Royal Netherlands Institute of Southeast Asian and Caribbean Studies

    Indonesia’s plan to rewrite its official national history was initially met with positive responses, particularly for its goal of better serving the younger generation. But the project to reshape the country’s mainstream historical narrative soon ignited widespread controversy for overlooking underrepresented groups and reinforcing authoritarian tendencies.

    By incorporating the latest data and expanding the coverage of historical events and figures, the initiative — launched by the Indonesian Historian Association (MSI) and backed by the Culture Ministry on May 2025 — raised hopes for a more inclusive, accurate, and relevant national history.

    However, backlash soon followed, with criticism intensifying after Culture Minister Fadli Zon’s controversial statement) dismissing the 1998 mass rapes as mere rumours.

    Various groups argue that the rewriting of national history is a calculated move to bolster an increasingly authoritarian government, as it relies solely on scholars and historians with ties to those in power.

    Many groups remain underrepresented

    A nation’s relationship with its history is deeply tied to how contemporary narratives are constructed or shaped. For national historiography to carry legitimacy, it must meaningfully include the voices of diverse groups, classes, communities, and entities.

    However, the project’s terms of reference fail to give due attention to space for women’s roles in the Indonesian independence movement].

    Its treatment of historical narratives from regions beyond Java also remains insufficient — let alone its neglect of non-political and non-economic themes, such as the arts or sports.

    Silent affirmation?

    In response to the controversy, few formal statements have been made from either MSI or the historians involved in the project, apart from the minister and the project’s principal editor.

    One notable exception came from a historian via his social media page, where he reflected on the dilemma of being both an intellectual and a public servant involved in the project.

    He argued that speaking from within, rather than criticising from the outside, demands greater courage and careful calculation – a stance he fears is likely to be overlooked.

    As a history-and-culture researcher, his remarks reinforce the perception that many of the historians involved in the revision project are civil servants at state universities or individuals closely aligned with those in power.

    Lessons from the past

    History itself tells us that the writing of national history is deeply intertwined with the interests of ruling authorities and their affiliated groups.

    From its inception, the genre of national history that emerged in 19th-century Europe and the United States was closely tied to efforts to legitimise territorial expansion and colonial rule.

    In the context of Indonesia’s current national history revision project, it is worth revisiting comparisons between how national histories were written under Ferdinand Marcos in the Philippines and Suharto in Indonesia.

    Historians in both countries should be recognised as active agents with their own interests and authority — not as passive participants or easily influenced figures.

    During Suharto’s regime, one historian even withdrew from the state-led national history writing project due to disagreements, particularly over methodological approaches.

    The project’s director marginalised historian Sartono Kartodirdjo — who championed a multidimensional approach — in favour of a more linear, state-centric narrative. Sartono’s more holistic perspective made space for a broader range of historical actors, including farmers and other often-overlooked communities.

    A similar precedent can be traced back to the early years of Indonesian independence, when the government initiated efforts to document the country’s national history in the 1950s. At the time, the National History Writing Committee — comprising prominent scholars — organised Indonesia’s first National History Seminar.

    Yet the initiative failed to produce an official national history, partly due to the same kind of unresolved methodological debates that resurfaced during Suharto’s rule.

    A project for whom?

    Marcus Tullius Cicero, the Roman philosopher-turned-statesman, once said, historia magistra vitae est – history is the teacher of life.

    Given the failures and controversies surrounding Indonesia’s earlier attempt to produce an official national history, the current revision project demands critical re-evaluation — and, if necessary, a complete halt.

    Merely involving more historians to boost representation is not an adequate solution either.

    The core issue lies not in revising history, but in advancing Indonesian historiography. Rather than pushing ahead with an extensive national history rewrite, the government should prioritise fostering diverse local history initiatives — through programmes such as the Cultural Endowment Fund or the Indonesiana Fund.

    This approach would enable a more comprehensive and representative account of Indonesian history — one that integrates local perspectives while remaining connected to national and global narratives.

    Saya pernah dan masih berkolaborasi untuk riset dengan beberapa lembaga di lingkungan Kementerian Kebudayaan seperti Museum dan Cagar Budaya Nasional, Balai Pelestarian Kebudayaan, dan lainnya.

    – ref. Indonesia plans to rewrite its national history: A return to an incomplete narrative? – https://theconversation.com/indonesia-plans-to-rewrite-its-national-history-a-return-to-an-incomplete-narrative-260298

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Exclusive: Cities today are not only economic hubs, but also diplomatic centers – Kazakhstani expert

    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

    ALMATY, July 13 (Xinhua) — Cities today are not only economic hubs but also diplomatic centers, Serik Korzhumbayev, editor-in-chief of the Delovoy Kazakhstan newspaper, said in a recent exclusive interview with Xinhua at the “Dialogue of Mayors of the World – SCO Summit Cities” event held in Tianjin.

    According to him, participation in the SCO cities dialogue has shown that respect for cultural diversity, dialogue at the people level and real cooperation at the city level are becoming the most important for the sustainable development of the countries of the region. Kazakhstan, as a bridge between the East and the West, between China and Central Asia, plays a key role in this process.

    “Today we see how the humanitarian dimension is coming to the forefront within the SCO. It is especially important that the younger generation of the SCO member states have the opportunity to exchange experiences, learn from each other, and understand the values of their partners. This is the foundation for long-term peace and sustainable development,” said S. Korzhumbayev.

    The expert also stressed that cities like Tianjin are becoming a model of “modernization with a human face,” where technology serves not only efficiency, but also the comfort of life, ecology, and safety.

    The Tianjin meeting in preparation for the SCO summit this fall was a convincing confirmation that cities are becoming “laboratories” of a new format of international cooperation – more humane, technological and environmentally friendly. These cities are where connections, trust and images of the future are formed that will determine the course of development of the entire Eurasian space. –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 –

  • 80.11% electors of Bihar submitted their enumeration forms: Election Commission

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday said that it has made significant progress in Bihar by establishing direct contact with nearly all electors, achieving over 80% collection of Enumeration Forms (EFs) well ahead of the stipulated deadline of July 25.

    With the support of 77,895 existing Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and 20,603 newly appointed BLOs, field-level operations are being rigorously monitored by the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) across all 243 Assembly Constituencies, involving 38 District Election Officers (DEOs), Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), and 963 Assistant EROs (AEROs).

    As of 6:00 PM on Saturday, a total of 6,32,59,497 Enumeration Forms, amounting to 80.11% of the target, have been collected — indicating that four out of every five electors in the state have already submitted their forms.

    This extensive outreach is being supported by 1.5 lakh Booth Level Agents (BLAs) appointed by political parties, and over 4 lakh volunteers, with a focus on ensuring inclusion of senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PwDs), and other vulnerable groups.

    The ECI has completed 100% printing and nearly full distribution of EFs to electors found at their registered addresses. The collected forms are being swiftly digitised, with 4.66 crore EFs already uploaded onto ECINet, a newly developed integrated software system that replaces the earlier 40 ECI apps.

    Electors are encouraged to submit their EFs along with eligibility documents to ensure their inclusion in the draft electoral rolls, which will be published on August 1, 2025. Those needing more time can submit documents until August 30, the last date for filing claims and objections.

    With the current pace, the ECI is confident of surpassing its target well before the deadline, marking a major step forward in strengthening the electoral process in Bihar.

  • Shivraj Singh calls PM Modi’s tenure a ‘golden era’ for employment in India

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday called Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s tenure a ‘golden era’ for employment in India. He made the remarks while distributing appointment letters to successful candidates at the Pradhan Mantri Rozgar Mela held in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.

    The nationwide employment drive saw over 51,000 youth across the country receiving appointment letters for government jobs. PM Modi also addressed the event virtually.

    Speaking at the event, Chouhan said, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision is a blessing for India. Under his leadership, we are on a grand mission to build a ‘Viksit Bharat’. There’s tremendous work happening across all sectors. In terms of employment, Prime Minister Modi’s current tenure is a golden era, as over 25 crore people have risen above the poverty line. He has uprooted poverty from its roots.”

    “Speaking of direct government jobs – more than 10 lakh youth have already been provided with employment”, he added.

    Chouhan emphasized that more than 51,200 youth have been appointed to various departments on Saturday, including the Railways, through a fully transparent, merit-based process.

    Congratulating the newly appointed candidates, he said their employment marks not only personal success but also their role in building a ‘Viksit Bharat’. He also thanked PM Modi for his visionary leadership and continued commitment to youth empowerment.

  • MIL-OSI China: China defends approach by military aircraft after Japan complaint

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

    A Chinese defense spokesperson on Sunday dismissed Japanese claims that Chinese military aircraft had flown “abnormally close” to its planes, saying China’s response was legitimate and professional.

    Japanese Air Self-Defense Force intelligence-gathering aircraft had engaged in repeated close-in surveillance efforts in China’s air defense identification zone over the East China Sea, said Jiang Bin, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, in response to a question from the media.

    Chinese aircraft took measures to identify, track and monitor the Japanese planes in accordance with the law, Jiang said. “Our response was entirely legitimate, reasonable, and conducted in a professional and standard manner.”

    Close-in reconnaissance and harassment by Japanese military vessels and aircraft are sources of maritime and air security risks between China and Japan, said the spokesperson.

    “We urge the Japanese side to work with China to foster an atmosphere conducive to the stable development of bilateral ties,” Jiang added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CS to depart for Hainan, Heilongjiang

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki will depart for Hainan Province and Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, tomorrow morning to meet 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 & Rise Programme to interact with participating mentees.

    Mr Chan will return to Hong Kong on July 16. During his absence, Deputy Chief Secretary Cheuk Wing-hing will be Acting Chief Secretary.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin jumps to all-time high due to demand from institutional investors. DRML Mine launches contract mining, doubles profits!

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, NY, July 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Bitcoin rose to a record high on Friday, driven by demand from institutional investors and crypto-friendly policies from U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration.

    Bitcoin, the world’s largest cryptocurrency, surged to a high of $117,581.10 during Asian trading on Friday, bringing its year-to-date gain to more than 25%. Bitcoin last traded at $117,563.11.

    Ether, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency, also rose nearly 6% to $2,956.82 after hitting a five-month high of $2,998.41.

    Key highlights of BTC cloud mining contracts:

    – Strategic launch timing: The contract was launched during a period of BTC price consolidation, providing investors with a way to profit regardless of short-term market movements.

    – Stable passive returns: DRML Miner’s new BTC contract offers fixed daily payouts and guaranteed returns on principal, making it attractive to both traders and long-term holders.

    – No technical barriers: The BTC mining model requires no hardware or maintenance – any user can participate immediately.

    New profit model: BTC mining meets AI optimization

    DRML Miner‘s AI mining architecture now supports BTC-specific contracts, using intelligent allocation of computing power to maximize returns while reducing risks. Given that BTC has been fluctuating in a narrow range for months, this model is particularly timely and marks an excellent time for alternative profit strategies
    Instead of waiting for a price breakout, DRML Miner users can now earn BTC daily through smart mining contracts without having to buy more tokens or try to time the market.

    Why does this BTC mining contract stand out?

    – 100% remote access: no rigs needed, no technical knowledge required – just log in and activate the plan.

    – Principal security: contract terms guarantee full return of principal upon maturity.

    – AI-driven returns: yield optimization ensures users profit even during price stagnation.

    – Daily earnings: predictable BTC payouts improve cash flow and reduce volatility risk.

    Join DRML Miner and get a $10 sign-up bonus to start mining BTC instantly.

    DRML Miner CEO commented,

    We see BTC consolidation not as stagnation, but as opportunity. Our new mining contracts allow the BTC community to unlock the value of this asset in a consistent, low-risk manner.

    Providing BTC investors with a proven mining model
    DRML Miner’s BTC mining contracts have shown strong user interest across multiple tiers. Examples of returns include:

    2-day plan: +7% return

    5-day plan: +1.3% return

    15-day plan: +1.45% return

    30-day plan: +1.55% return

    These results are based on historical contract data and reflect DRML Miner’s commitment to transparency and performance.

    How to start mining BTC with DRML Miner

    Sign up: New users get a $10 welcome bonus and $0.60 daily login bonus.

    Choose a contract: Select from flexible BTC mining terms to match your investment goals.

    Start earning: DRML Miner’s AI-driven engine takes care of the rest – start earning instantly upon activation.

    About DRML Miner

    DRML Miner is the world’s leading cloud mining platform, committed to making cryptocurrency mining simple, sustainable and affordable for everyone. We operate more than 120 environmentally friendly mining farms powered by renewable energy. With a user-friendly interface, cutting-edge technology, and support for major cryptocurrencies such as XRP, BTC, and ETH, we help more than 7 million users around the world easily earn passive income

    To explore the future of BTC mining, please visit https://drmlminers.com

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or a trading recommendation. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and may result in loss of funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: DPRK Supreme Leader Meets Visiting Russian Foreign Minister – KCNA

    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

    PYONGYANG, July 13 (Xinhua) — Kim Jong Un, general secretary of the Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK) and chairman of the State Affairs Commission of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), met on Saturday with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who is visiting the DPRK to attend the second strategic dialogue between the foreign ministers of the two countries, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on Sunday.

    During the talks between Kim Jong-un and S. Lavrov, “a broad exchange of views between the leadership of the two countries on a number of important issues for the conscientious implementation of the agreements reached at the historic high-level talks between the DPRK and Russia in June 2024” took place, the statement said.

    The two countries share the same views on all strategic issues, which is consistent with the level of alliance, and this demonstrates the high strategic level established between the two countries, Kim Jong-un said.

    The DPRK leader confirmed that his country “is ready to unconditionally support and encourage all measures taken by the Russian leadership to eliminate the root cause of the Ukrainian crisis in accordance with the spirit of the interstate treaty between the DPRK and Russia in the future,” KCNA reported, citing his words.

    Kim Jong-un expressed confidence that “a coordinated and harmonious diplomatic stance by the two countries aimed at showing initiative and an active attitude towards the radically changing international geopolitical situation will make a positive contribution to ensuring peace and security in the region and the entire world.”

    During the talks, S. Lavrov expressed readiness for “further strengthening of strategic and tactical cooperation and intensification of coordinated actions” between the two countries in the international arena, the report says.

    The parties also expressed the readiness of the leadership of the two countries to “closely support and cooperate with each other on the path to thoroughly protecting the fundamental interests of the two countries, powerfully promoting the overall development of bilateral ties and ensuring the endless well-being of the peoples and their bright future.”

    S. Lavrov’s three-day visit took place at the invitation of the DPRK Foreign Ministry and will end on Sunday, KCNA reported. –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 denies Japanese claims Chinese military jets flew ‘abnormally close’ to Japanese aircraft

    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 13 (Xinhua) — Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman Jiang Bin on Sunday denied Japanese claims that Chinese military aircraft flew “abnormally close” to Japanese aircraft, saying China’s actions were legal and professional.

    Japan Air Self-Defense Force reconnaissance aircraft have repeatedly entered China’s air defense identification zone over the East China Sea to conduct close-range reconnaissance, Jiang Bin said.

    Jiang Bin said Chinese military aircraft had taken measures to identify, track and monitor the Japanese aircraft in accordance with the law. “Our response was completely legal, reasonable and professional in accordance with standards,” he said.

    The interference caused by Japanese military vessels and aircraft to the Chinese side during close-range reconnaissance and pursuit is a source of security threats in the maritime and airspace between China and Japan, Jiang Bin said.

    “We call on the Japanese side to work with China to create an atmosphere conducive to the stable development of bilateral relations,” the Chinese defense official added. -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 –

  • EAM Jaishankar meets Singapore’s Vivian Bala, reaffirms strategic ties under ‘Act East Policy’

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar on Sunday held a meeting with his Singaporean counterpart Vivian Balakrishnan, reaffirming the central role Singapore plays in India’s ‘Act East Policy’.

    In a post on X, Jaishankar said, “Singapore is at the heart of our Act East Policy. Always insightful to exchange views there. Great to meet FM Vivian Bala this morning in Singapore.”

    During his visit, Jaishankar also met Teo Chee Hean, Chairman-designate of Temasek Holdings, where they discussed the ongoing transformation in India and its growing investment opportunities.

    “A great pleasure to meet Chairman-designate of Temasek Holdings Teo Chee Hean today. Discussed the transformation underway in India and its investment opportunities,” Jaishankar said in another post on X.

    According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Jaishankar’s visit to Singapore includes engagements with the country’s leadership as part of regular high-level exchanges between the two nations.

    Following his engagements in Singapore, the EAM is scheduled to travel to China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (CFM) in Tianjin, where he will also hold bilateral meetings on the sidelines.

    On July 2, MEA Secretary (East) P. Kumaran met with Luke Goh, Permanent Secretary (Development) for Foreign Affairs of Singapore, in New Delhi. The meeting reviewed ongoing bilateral cooperation and explored priority initiatives to further strengthen the India-Singapore partnership.

    The year 2025 marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Singapore. To commemorate the occasion, President Droupadi Murmu and Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam jointly unveiled a commemorative logo in New Delhi on January 16.

    The logo features symbolic elements including colours from both national flags, the Lotus (India’s national flower), the Orchid (Singapore’s national flower), and the number 60, celebrating the milestone. According to the MEA, the design reflects the enduring friendship, mutual trust, and shared values between the two countries.

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • President Murmu nominates four members to Rajya Sabha; PM Modi extends best wishes

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated four distinguished individuals nominated to the Rajya Sabha by President Droupadi Murmu, lauding their contributions across diverse fields.
     
    In a series of posts on X, PM Modi wished all four nominees – Ujjwal Nikam, C. Sadanandan Master, Harsh Vardhan Shringla and Dr. Meenakshi Jain – success in their parliamentary roles and expressed hope that their presence would bring valuable perspectives to the Rajya Sabha.
     
    PM Modi hailed Ujjwal Nikam, a renowned legal expert, for his unwavering commitment to constitutional values and justice, acknowledging his key role in several high-profile legal cases.
     
    In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Shri Ujjwal Nikam’s devotion to the legal field and to our Constitution is exemplary. He has not only been a successful lawyer but also been at the forefront of seeking justice in important cases. During his entire legal career, he has always worked to strengthen Constitutional values and ensure common citizens are always treated with dignity. It’s gladdening that the President of India has nominated him to the Rajya Sabha. My best wishes for his Parliamentary innings.”
     
    PM Modi described C. Sadanandan Master as a symbol of courage and resilience, applauding his work as a teacher, social worker, and advocate for youth empowerment despite facing threats and violence.
     
    “Shri C. Sadanandan Master’s life is the epitome of courage and refusal to bow to injustice. Violence and intimidation couldn’t deter his spirit towards national development. His efforts as a teacher and social worker are also commendable. He is extremely passionate towards youth empowerment. Congratulations to him for being nominated to the Rajya Sabha by Rahstrapati Ji. Best wishes for his role as MP,” said PM Modi.
     
    Recognising Harsh Vardhan Shringla’s diplomatic service, PM Modi noted his role in shaping India’s foreign policy and contributions during the country’s G20 Presidency.
     
    “Shri Harsh Vardhan Shringla Ji has excelled as a diplomat, intellectual and strategic thinker. Over the years, he’s made key contributions to India’s foreign policy and also contributed to our G20 Presidency. Glad that he’s been nominated to the Rajya Sabha by President of India. His unique perspectives will greatly enrich Parliamentary proceedings,” said PM Modi.
     
    PM Modi also praised Dr. Meenakshi Jain, a noted historian and scholar, for her impactful work in the fields of education, literature, history, and political science.
     
    “It’s a matter of immense joy that Dr. Meenakshi Jain Ji has been nominated to the Rajya Sabha by Rashtrapati Ji. She has distinguished herself as a scholar, researcher and historian. Her work in the fields of education, literature, history and political science have enriched academic discourse significantly. Best wishes for her Parliamentary tenure,” said PM Modi. 

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Burnham

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police can confirm one person has died following a crash on Telegraph Road, Burnham.

    The crash involving two vehicles was reported at about 3.30pm.

    The Serious Crash Unit is on scene.

    The road is currently closed with diversions in place until the scene examination has been completed.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • Axiom-4 splash down on July 15 at 3 pm: Jitendra Singh on Shubhanshu Shukla’s return

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Sunday shared an update on the Axiom-4 International Space Station (ISS) Mission and said that the astronauts are expected to splash down on Earth on July 15 at 3:00 p.m. (Indian time).

    Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, currently on board the ISS, along with three other crew members – Peggy Whitson, Sławosz Uznanski-Wisniewski, and Tibor Kapu – will undock inside the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft from the Harmony module’s space-facing port for a return to Earth.

    In a post on X, Jitendra Singh said, “As of now, undocking has been scheduled for tomorrow, 14th July at 4:30 PM IST. Arrival back to earth…. splash down scheduled for 15th July at 3:00 PM IST.”

    “These timings have a margin window of approximately 1 hour. Further update, if any, shall be shared accordingly,” he added.

    A splashdown is expected several hours after the undocking, near the coast of California in the Pacific Ocean.

    IAF Group Captain Shukla is on a 14-day mission to the ISS. He became the first Indian to visit the ISS and the second Indian astronaut after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who went to space in 1984.

    On the orbital post, Shukla carried out seven India-specific experiments, taking a major step in advancing India’s Gaganyaan human space flight mission.

    These included experiments to decode muscle loss, developing a brain-computer interface, and sprouting green gram and fenugreek seeds in space, among others.

    The four astronauts completed experiments that included the Indian strain of Tardigrades, focusing on survival, revival, reproduction, and transcriptome: Myogenesis, which studied the impact of the space environment on human muscle cells; sprouting of methi and moong seeds, with relevance to crew nutrition; and the Cyanobacteria experiment, which studied the growth of two varieties with relevance to life support systems.

    The experiments represent a significant leap in space science and technology, contributing critical knowledge to support Gaganyaan, Bhartiya Antariksha Station, and future planetary missions.

    After landing, Shukla, along with other crew members, will undergo a rehabilitation programme (about seven days) under the supervision of the Flight Surgeons to adapt back to Earth’s gravity.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: SH1 closed south of Hampden following crash

    Source: New Zealand Police

    State Highway 1 is closed south of Hampden, while emergency services respond to a crash.

    The two-vehicle crash near Moeraki Boulders Road was reported at around 4:20pm.

    Initial indications are that there are serious injuries.

    Motorists are advised to avoid an unnecessary travel, as there are no alternate routes available.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • EU says it still wants US trade deal, will defend interests

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The European Union said on Saturday it was ready to retaliate to defend its interests if the United States pressed ahead with imposing a 30% tariff on European goods from August 1.

    U.S. President Donald Trump latest salvo surprised the bloc, the United States’ largest trading partner, which had hoped to avoid an escalating trade war after intense negotiations and increasingly warm words from the White House.

    Ursula von der Leyen, head of the EU executive which handles trade policy for the 27 member states, said the bloc was ready to keep working towards an agreement before August 1,but was willing to stand firm.

    “We will take all necessary steps to safeguard EU interests, including the adoption of proportionate countermeasures if required,” she said of possible retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods entering Europe.

    EU ambassadors will discuss next steps on Sunday, before trade ministers meet in Brussels on Monday for an extraordinary meeting. They will need to decide whether to impose tariffs on 21 billion euros of U.S. imports in retaliation against separate U.S. tariffs against steel and aluminium, or extend a suspension which lasts until the end of Monday.

    The EU has so far held back from retaliating against the U.S., although it has readied two packages that could hit a combined 93 billion euros of U.S. goods

    European capitals swiftly backed von der Leyen’s position.

    German Economy Minister Katherina Reiche called for a “pragmatic outcome to the negotiations”.

    Trump’s proposed tariffs”would hit European exporting companies hard. At the same time, they would also have a strong impact on the economy and consumers on the other side of the Atlantic,” she said.

    French President Emmanuel Macron said on X that the European Commission needed more than ever to “assert the Union’s determination to defend European interests resolutely”.

    Retaliation might need to include so-called anti-coercion instruments if Trump did not back down, Macron said.

    The tool, drawn up during Trump’s first term and used against China, allows the EU to go beyond traditional tariffs on goods and impose restrictions on trade in services, if it deems that a country is using tariffs to force a change in policy.

    Spain’s Economy Ministry backed further negotiations but added that Spain and others in the EU were ready to take “proportionate countermeasures if necessary”.

    Trump has periodically railed against the European Union, saying in February it was “formed to screw the United States”.

    His biggest grievance is the U.S. merchandise trade deficit with the EU, which in 2024 amounted to $235 billion, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. The EU has repeatedly pointed to a U.S. surplus in services, arguing it in part redresses the balance.

    RETALIATION

    Combining goods, services and investment, the EU and the United States are each other’s largest trading partners by far. The American Chamber of Commerce to the EU said in March the trade dispute could jeopardise $9.5 trillion of business in the world’s most important commercial relationship.

    Bernd Lange, head of the European Parliament’s trade committee said he was now convinced the first stage of countermeasures should come into force on Monday, followed quickly by the second package.

    Trump has said he would mirror any retaliatory moves.

    Still, Trump has repeatedly announced sweeping tariffs in recent months, only to row back or suspend them before his own self-imposed deadlines. The expectation that he will again relent has led to increasingly muted responses on financial markets, which have recovered since plunging after his initial “Liberation Day” announcement of big global tariffs in April.

    Three EU officials who spoke on condition on anonymity said they saw Trump’s latest threats as a negotiating ploy.

    Carsten Brzeski, global head of macro at ING, said Trump’s move suggested that months of negotiations remained deadlocked and that the situation was inching towards a make-or-break moment for the transatlantic trade relationship.

    “The EU will now have to decide whether to budge or to play hardball,” he said. “This will bring market volatility and even more uncertainty.”

    Cyrus de la Rubia, chief economist at Hamburg Commercial Bank, noted that the brunt of the U.S. tariffs, if implemented, would be felt by U.S. consumers.

    However, there would also be clear repercussions for the euro area economy, already struggling with weak growth.

    The European Central Bank had used a 10% tariff on EU exports to the United States as the baseline in its latest economic projections, which put output growth in the euro area at 0.9% this year, 1.1% in 2026 and 1.3% in 2027.

    It said a 20% U.S. tariff would curb growth by 1 percentage point over the same period and also pull down inflation to 1.8% in 2027, from 2.0% in the baseline scenario. It did not even offer an estimate for the possibility of a 30% tariff.

    (Reuters)

  • Unforgiving Swiatek crushes Anisimova 6-0 6-0 to win maiden Wimbledon crown

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Iga Swiatek took another stride towards tennis greatness by ruthlessly tearing apart American 13th seed Amanda Anisimova 6-0 6-0 and lifting her first Wimbledon trophy on Saturday.

    The big occasion turned into a nightmare for Anisimova who became the first woman to lose a Wimbledon final by that painful scoreline since 1911 and the first to do so at any major since Steffi Graf routed Natasha Zvereva at the 1988 French Open.

    Already a U.S. Open champion and a four-times French Open winner, Swiatek’s demolition job at the All England Club meant that she became the youngest woman since a 20-year-old Serena Williams in 2002 to lift major titles on all three surfaces.

    Her superb display on the sun-drenched lawns of London also ensured that she emerged as the first player since Monica Seles in 1992 to win her first six major finals.

    “It’s something that is just surreal. I feel like tennis keeps surprising me, and I keep surprising myself,” Swiatek told reporters after hoisting the gilded Venus Rosewater Dish.

    “I’m really happy with the whole process, how it looked like from the first day we stepped on a grasscourt. Yeah, I feel like we did everything for it to go in that direction without expecting it, just working really hard.

    “It means a lot, and it gives me a lot of experience. Yeah, I don’t even know. I’m just happy.”

    Swiatek’s triumph ended a barren 13-month run for the Polish 24-year-old, who served a short suspension late last year after an inadvertent doping violation linked to contaminated sleep medication melatonin.

    “I want to thank my coach (Wim Fissette). With the ups and downs now, we showed everybody it’s working,” Swiatek added.

    SCORCHING START

    On another warm afternoon on Centre Court, Swiatek got off to a scorching start by breaking a nervous Anisimova three times en route to dishing out the first bagel, prompting some spectators to get behind the shell-shocked American.

    A frustrated Anisimova shrieked and desperately looked to her team in the stands for any kind of guidance after conceding yet another break point early in the second set and it was not long before her machine-like opponent pulled away further.

    Anisimova continued to disappointingly crack under pressure, before Swiatek completed the brutal mauling in 57 minutes with a backhand winner on her second match point to become the first Wimbledon champion from Poland.

    Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk celebrated with a picture of himself watching a post-match interview while holding a bowl of pasta and strawberries, Swiatek’s cheat meal at Wimbledon, while President Andrzej Duda was effusive in his praise.

    “Iga! Today, on the grasscourts of Wimbledon, you wrote history – not only for Polish sport, but also for Polish pride. On behalf of the Republic of Poland – thank you,” Duda wrote.

    Victory took Swiatek to 100 wins from 120 matches at the majors, making her the quickest to get to there since Williams in 2004, and denied Anisimova the chance to become the first American to win the title since her compatriot in 2016.

    Swiatek jumped for joy on court before running towards her team in the stands to celebrate her triumph. The Friends fan was equally delighted to receive a congratulatory hug from American actress Courteney Cox, who was among the spectators.

    All this while, Anisimova was left to wonder what could have been as she sat in her seat, before the tears began to flow during her on-court interview.

    Few would have envisioned the American to hit the heights she did in the last fortnight after she fell outside the top 400 following her mental health break two years ago.

    “I didn’t have enough today,” said Anisimova, who began the tournament with a 6-0 6-0 win over Yulia Putintseva but admitted to running out of gas in the final.

    “I’m going to keep putting in the work, and I always believe in myself. I hope to be back again one day.”

    It was bitter disappointment for U.S. fans hoping for an “American Slam” this year after Madison Keys won the Australian Open at the start of the year and Coco Gauff triumphed at the French Open last month.

    (Reuters)

  • Britain’s Cash and Glasspool win Wimbledon men’s doubles title

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Fifth seeds Julian Cash and Lloyd Glasspool capped their dream summer with the Wimbledon crown and first Grand Slam title as a pair when the British team downed Rinky Hijikata and David Pel 6-2 7-6(3) in the men’s doubles final on Saturday.

    Queen’s Club and Eastbourne champions Cash and Glasspool became the first all-British pairing to win the All England Club trophy since 1936, when Pat Hughes and Raymond Tuckey defeated their compatriots Charles Hare and Frank Wilde in the final.

    “When you say it, it sounds incredible,” said Glasspool.

    “We’ve had a Brit win it last year (Henry Patten), the year before that (Neal Skupski) so I didn’t think too much of it, but now we needed to give you two so we did our best.”

    The local favourites shot out of the blocks after an early break thanks to a poor service game from Pel and raced through the opening set with minimum fuss, leaving fans buzzing on a sun-drenched Centre Court.

    The Australian-Dutch duo of Hijikata and Pel saved a break point at the start of the second set and applied pressure in the fourth game but their opponents were equal to the task and took a step towards the title when they went 4-2 up.

    Hijikata and Pel, who entered the tournament as alternates and survived match points in their first two rounds, drew level after eight games before Cash and Glasspool moved up a gear in the tiebreak to prevail and spark huge celebrations.

    “We’ve played a crazy amount of tennis on the grass, every match we possibly could,” said Cash.

    “So a lot of people were talking, coming into this event. There was a lot of pressure on our shoulders. And the fact we’ve been able to do what everyone was talking about is surreal.”

    The runners-up cut cheerful figures despite the defeat.

    “We didn’t even meet before the tournament,” the 34-year-old Pel said. “I mean, it was our first time speaking on the day the tournament started.”

    Hijikata, who won the 2023 Australian Open title with Jason Kubler, called his All England Club adventure a “crazy ride”.

    “It’s been so much fun playing with David,” Hijikata said.

    “He’s brought such a great energy on the court. He’s made it very easy for me out there. It’s a dream come true to be playing on Centre Court. A bit shattered, but it was a lot of fun.”

    (Reuters)

  • Iran says it will work with IAEA but inspections may be risky

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Iran plans to cooperate with the U.N. nuclear watchdog despite restrictions imposed by its parliament, Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on Saturday, while stressing that access to its bombed nuclear sites posed security and safety issues.

    A new law passed in Iran following last month’s Israeli and U.S. bombing campaign stipulates that inspection of Iran’s nuclear sites by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) needs approval by the Supreme National Security Council, Iran’s top security body.

    The Israeli and U.S. strikes targeted a nuclear programme which Western countries have long said was aimed at building an atomic weapon. Iran has long said its nuclear programme is purely peaceful.

    Any negotiations over Iran’s future nuclear programme are likely to require its cooperation with the IAEA, which angered Iran last month by declaring on the eve of the Israeli strikes that Tehran was violating non-proliferation treaty commitments.

    “The risk of spreading radioactive materials and the risk of exploding leftover munitions … are serious,” state media cited Araqchi as saying. “For us, IAEA inspectors approaching nuclear sites has both a security aspect … and the safety of the inspectors themselves is a matter that must be examined.”

    While Iran’s cooperation with the nuclear watchdog has not stopped, it will take a new form and will be guided and managed through the Supreme National Security Council, Araqchi told Tehran-based diplomats.

    “The IAEA’s requests for continued monitoring in Iran will be … decided on a case-by-case basis by the Council with consideration to safety and security issues,” Araqchi said.

    Iran will not agree to any nuclear deal that does not allow it to enrich uranium, Araqchi reiterated. Iran would only agree to talks limited to its nuclear programme and not encompassing defence issues such as its missiles.

    Axios cited sources on Saturday as saying Russian President Vladimir Putin had voiced support for the idea of an accord in which Tehran would bebarred from enriching uranium. Iran’s semi-official news agency Tasnim quoted an “informed source” as saying Putin had not sent any such message to Iran.

    Speaking to the state news agency IRNA, Araqchi said Iran was carefully considering the details of any renewed nuclear talks with the U.S. and seeking assurances that Washington would not again resort to military force. “We are in no hurry to enter into unconsidered negotiations,” he added.

    Araqchi also said any move by Britain, France and Germany to reimpose international sanctions on Iran through a so-called “snapback” mechanism under an earlier nuclear deal would “end Europe’s role” in Iran’s nuclear issue.

    Under the terms of a U.N. resolution ratifying a 2015 nuclear pact, the three European powers could reimpose United Nations sanctions against Tehran by October 18, 2025.

    (Reuters)

  • India equal England’s first-innings score of 387 with Test in balance

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Opener KL Rahul scored a century while Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant pitched in with crucial fifties as India posted 387 on day three, equalling England’s first innings, with their third test hanging in the balance at Lord’s on Saturday.

    An injury to Shoaib Bashir blunted England’s pace-spin attack strategy when India looked vulnerable with five wickets down after losing Pant and Rahul in quick succession, before Jadeja steadied their innings with his third fifty-plus knock in a row.

    England openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett played a single over before stumps, remaining unbeaten at 2-0 as the five-match series remains tied with both sides looking to go 2-1 up with a win.

    “Pretty even. You toil away for three days and you sit here with a two-run lead. Looking forward to a two-day shoot-out,” England bowling coach Tim Southee told the BBC.

    India started well from an overnight score of 145-3 with Rahul accompanied by left-handed batter Pant, who scored twin centuries in the first test, battled through an injured finger on his left hand as he hooked England captain Stokes for six to bring up his fifty.

    The two added 141 runs for the fourth wicket before Pant was run out for 74 on the last ball before lunch as he played Bashir towards cover point, where Stokes made a quick turn to hit the stumps on the non-striker’s end with a swift, direct throw.

    Rahul was the next to fall, edging Bashir’s flighted ball to Harry Brook in the slip on his very next ball after reaching 100, leaving India on shaky ground at 254-5 under a warm London sun.

    But Bashir had to leave the ground when he injured a finger on his non-bowling left hand while attempting a low catch from his own delivery as Jadeja shot down the wicket. Commentators later said the 21-year-old might need extra treatment in the evening.

    JADEJA STEERS THE SHIP

    Jadeja and Nitish Kumar Reddy, new to the crease, looked unsteady as England’s bowlers piled on the pressure. Mix-ups between the batters put Reddy at risk of getting run out on two occasions but Ollie Pope’s direct throws missed the target both times.

    However, as England returned to using two pacers soon after Bashir’s injury, the pair put together a 72-run partnership before Stokes claimed his second wicket of the match, getting Reddy to nick it to keeper Jamie Smith for 30.

    But Jadeja kept the runs flowing, scoring his third fifty-plus knock in a row, while Washington Sundar adopted a slow, cautious approach on the other end.

    Their 50-run partnership for the eighth wicket got India within 11 runs of England’s total, before Chris Woakes dismissed Jadeja for 72 as the batter’s attempt to send the ball down fine leg only took a thin edge and landed in Smith’s gloves.

    Akash Deep, in at number nine, was given out leg before wicket twice by umpire Sharfuddoula Saikat during the same over but Hawk-Eye showed the ball was missing the stumps when the batter reviewed them, overturning both decisions.

    But Deep fell soon after to Brydon Carse for seven, with Brook trapping him at third slip with a low dive.

    Sundar brought the scores level before falling to Jofra Archer for 23, bringing an end to India’s innings.

    Crawley and Duckett, batting shortly before stumps, got into arguments with Indian fielders over delays. India captain Shubman Gill clapped for Crawley when he called for the physio to check his injury after the ball hit his glove.

    Duckett shared some words with Gill as the batters saw out the over from Jasprit Bumrah, leaving the feisty contest finely poised going into the final two days.

    “He’ll be assessed overnight. Hopefully he’ll be good to go tomorrow,” Southee told reporters about Crawley’s finger injury. “Shubman Gill was lying down having a massage yesterday.”

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Advocacy and Justice – New Zealand Urged to Join Global Coalition Taking Concrete Measures Against Israeli Atrocities – PFNZ

    Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand

    The Palestine Forum of New Zealand is calling on the New Zealand Government to urgently align itself with over twenty nations — including Spain, Ireland, Turkey, China, Qatar, South Africa, and Brazil — that are coordinating concrete international measures in response to Israel’s ongoing assault on Gaza.

    An emergency summit of The Hague Group will take place in Colombia next week, with participating states seeking to enforce the International Court of Justice’s binding orders and address grave breaches of international law in Gaza.

    “More than 58,000 Palestinians — mostly women and children have been killed, and Gaza has been reduced to rubble. The international community is moving decisively, and it’s time for New Zealand to take a principled stand,” said Maher Nazzal, spokesperson for the Palestine Forum of New Zealand.

    New Zealand has a proud legacy of supporting international law and human rights, from opposing apartheid to championing nuclear disarmament. It must now show moral clarity and leadership by joining the growing international coalition demanding an immediate ceasefire, the lifting of the blockade, and full accountability for crimes committed.

    “We urge the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs to publicly commit to joining this initiative and to represent New Zealand at the upcoming summit. Inaction in the face of atrocity is complicity,” Maher Nazzal added.

    Maher Nazzal
    Palestine Forum of New Zealand

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Insurers stand with communities as weather recovery begins – Insurance Council

    Source: Insurance Council of NZ

    New Zealanders are once again facing the challenge of cleaning up and recovering after another round of severe weather, particularly across the upper North and South Islands.
    “This is tough for communities that had just beginning to get back on their feet after recent major storms,” said Kris Faafoi, Chief Executive of the Insurance Council of New Zealand | Te Kāhui Inihui o Aotearoa (ICNZ).
    “We encourage people to begin the recovery process safely and as soon as they’re able. We understand that not everyone can lodge an insurance claim immediately.
    “It’s important to note that any new damage from this latest weather event will require a separate insurance claim.”
    To support affected residents, Nelson-Tasman Emergency Management has re-established a community information centre at the Motueka Rec Centre on Old Wharf Road. Insurance sector contacts will be available through the centre to provide assistance.
    “While it’s important to contact your insurer as soon as you can, don’t delay necessary steps to prevent further damage if it’s safe to act,” Kris Faafoi said.
    To help speed up recovery and keep people safe, ICNZ recomm

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • Gaza truce talks faltering over withdrawal; 17 reported killed in latest shooting near aid

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Progress is stalling at talks aimed at securing a ceasefire in Gaza, with the sides divided over the extent of Israeli forces’ withdrawal from the Palestinian enclave, Palestinian and Israeli sources familiar with the negotiations in Doha said on Saturday.

    The indirect talks over a U.S. proposal for a 60-day ceasefire continued throughout Saturday, an Israeli official told Reuters, seven days since talks began. U.S. President Donald Trump has said he hoped for a breakthrough soon based on a new U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal.

    In Gaza, medics said 17 people trying to get food aid were killed on Saturday when Israeli troops opened fire, the latest mass shooting around a U.S.-backed aid distribution system that the U.N. says has resulted in 800 people killed in six weeks.

    Witnesses who spoke to Reuters described people being shot in the head and torso. Reuters saw several bodies of victims wrapped in white shrouds as family members wept at Nasser Hospital. The Israeli military said its troops had fired warning shots, but that its review of the incident had found no evidence of anyone hurt by its soldiers’ fire.

    Delegations from Israel and Hamas have been in Qatar pushing for an agreement which envisages a phased release of hostages, Israeli troop withdrawals and discussions on ending the war.

    The Israeli official blamed the impasse on Hamas, which he said “remains stubborn, sticking to positions that do not allow the mediators to advance an agreement”. Hamas has previously blamed Israeli demands for blocking a deal.

    A Palestinian source said that Hamas had rejected withdrawal maps which Israel had proposed that would leave around 40% of Gaza under Israeli control, including all of the southern area of Rafah and further territories in northern and eastern Gaza.

    Two Israeli sources said Hamas wanted Israel to retreat to lines it held in a previous ceasefire before it renewed its offensive in March.

    The Palestinian source said aid issues and guarantees on an end to the war were also presenting a challenge.The crisis could be resolved with more U.S. intervention, the source said.

    Hamas has long demanded an agreement to end the war before it would free remaining hostages; Israel has insisted it would end the fighting only when all hostages are released and Hamas is dismantled as a fighting force and administration in Gaza.

    SHOOTING

    Saturday’s reported mass shooting near an aid distribution point in Rafah was the latest in a series of such incidents that the United Nations rights office said on Friday had seen at least 798 peoplekilled trying to get food in six weeks.

    “We were sitting there, and suddenly there was shooting towards us. For five minutes we were trapped under fire. The shooting was targeted. It was not random. Some people were shot in the head, some in the torso, one guy next to me was shot directly in the heart,” eyewitness Mahmoud Makram told Reuters.

    “There is no mercy there, no mercy. People go because they are hungry but they die and come back in body bags.”

    After partially lifting a total blockade of all goods into Gaza in late May, Israel launched a new aid distribution system, relying on a group backed by the United States to distribute food under the protection of Israeli troops.

    The United Nations has rejected the system as inherently dangerous and a violation of humanitarian neutrality principles. Israel says it is necessary to keep militants from diverting aid.

    The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas-led militants stormed into Israel, killing about 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages into Gaza. At least 20 of the remaining 50 hostages there are believed to still be alive.

    Israel’s campaign against Hamas has killed more than 57,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities, displaced almost the entire population of more than 2 million people, sparked a humanitarian crisis and left much of the territory in ruins.

    Thousands of Israelis rallied in central Tel Aviv on Saturday demanding a deal that would release all remaining hostages being held by Hamas.

    Protester Boaz Levi told Reuters here was there to pressure the government, “to get to a hostage deal as soon as possible because our friends, brothers, are in Gaza and it’s about the time to end this war. That is why we are here.”

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI China: World’s highest cycling race showcases China’s eco-civilization

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

    The 2025 Tour of Magnificent Qinghai is not only a road cycling spectacle, but a crucial platform for China’s Qinghai Province to showcase its plateau ecological protection, cultural tourism integration, and rural revitalization efforts.

    From the canola flower fields of Menyuan to the snow-capped mountains and grasslands of Qilian, from the intangible cultural heritage of the Tu ethnic group in Huzhu to the magnificent scenes of nomadic horse teams cheering on the riders, the event paints a vibrant new picture of the plateau where ecology and culture are intertwined.

    HIGH ALTITUDE, CHALLENGING RACES, SPECTACULAR SCENERY

    With the sound of the starting gun, the Tour of Magnificent Qinghai opened on July 6 in the ancient plateau city of Xining, capital of Qinghai Province.

    An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 18, 2024 shows a view of the Erlangjian scenic area at Qinghai Lake in northwest China’s Qinghai Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Formerly known as the Tour of Qinghai Lake, the event was rebranded in 2025 as the Tour of Magnificent Qinghai. First held in 2002, the high-altitude race is recognized as one of Asia’s premier road cycling events, known for its punishing terrain and average elevation of 3,000 meters.

    The 2025 edition features eight stages totaling 1,400 kilometers and has attracted 154 professional riders from 11 countries and regions. The event, with a maximum altitude of 3,869m, concludes in Haiyan County on July 13.

    Over 24 years of development, the event has steadily advanced from a 2.5-category race to one of Asia’s top road cycling events, and now ranks as a UCI ProSeries race.

    Luo Dongchuan, Governor of Qinghai Province, said in his opening speech that the Tour of Magnificent Qinghai, with its unique charm of high altitude, challenging courses, and spectacular scenery, has become one of the most challenging and visually appealing road cycling events in the world.

    Cyclists compete during the Stage 5 of the 1st Tour of Qinghai Lake, July 31, 2002. [Photo/Xinhua]

    “It has become a benchmark event leading the development of cycling in China, a splendid window showcasing a beautiful China and the construction of a strong sporting nation,” Luo added.

    Luo further noted, “It demonstrates the open, inclusive, and pioneering spirit of the people of all ethnic groups on the Qinghai Plateau.”

    In a message to the opening ceremony, David Lappartient, President of the International Cycling Union (UCI), stated that the Tour of Magnificent Qinghai has been an important part of the UCI racing history since 2002.

    “Formerly part of the UCI Asia Tour, it is now a UCI ProSeries event and continues to attract top-quality teams and athletes to race through the province of Qinghai, known for its beautiful Qinghai Lake,” Lappartient added.

    “All those who embark on the Tour of Magnificent Qinghai are aware that the road will be tough, but beautiful and rewarding,” he noted.

    Li Zisen of Qinghai Tianyoude celebrates victory after the Stage 8 of the 20th Tour of Qinghai Lake, July 18, 2021. [Photo/Xinhua]

    From his hometown in Yunnan Province to Qinghai, from one plateau to an even higher one, Li Zisen arrived at the Duoba National Plateau Training Base in Qinghai in 2013 to begin a new journey.

    Li, now 27, cannot remember how many times he has ridden the training route of Duoba Base – Riyue Mountain – Xihai Town – Qinghai Lake. In several editions of the Tour of Qinghai Lake, he claimed the Blue Jersey for best Asian rider, and is currently competing in this year’s Tour of Magnificent Qinghai.

    With excellent physical condition and rigorous training, Li has gradually gained recognition at both domestic and international cycling events. “Each honor has given me more confidence,” Li said before this year’s event.

    PASSION AND ECOLOGY IN HARMONY

    Qinghai Province is home to numerous lakes and diverse wildlife in the headwaters of the Three Rivers – the Yangtze, Yellow and Lancang – making it the “Water Tower of China.” The region is dedicated to building an international ecological civilization highland.

    An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 23, 2024 shows Mount Gangshika in Menyuan Hui Autonomous County, northwest China’s Qinghai Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The Tour of Magnificent Qinghai is a “green calling card” showcasing Qinghai’s ecological civilization construction. This year’s race passes through the Twelve Turns of Huzhu, the picturesque Zhuoer Mountain, and the vast Jin Yintan (Golden and Silver Beach), showcasing Qinghai’s harmonious coexistence between mankind and nature.

    “The Tour of Magnificent Qinghai has witnessed Qinghai’s determination to protect the headwaters, but more importantly, through ‘green’ sports, the organizing committee is sending a strong signal to the outside world about protecting the Sanjiangyuan (Three Rivers Source), Qinghai Lake, and even the ecological environment along the route,” said Wang Xia, Director of the Qinghai Provincial Sports Bureau.

    The Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture’s Menyuan and Qilian Counties, where this year’s race passes through, are important parts of the Qilian Mountains National Park.

    Seeing the majestic Gangshika Snow Mountain and the canola flower fields along the route, Swiss rider Simon Pellaud said, “These flower fields remind me of my hometown. Qinghai is a romantic place.”

    This photo taken on July 21, 2022 shows a view of the Mount Geladandong in the source region of the Yangtze River in northwest China’s Qinghai Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Since 2017, the national park has seen a 15 percent improvement in vegetation and ecological quality, with 60 percent of degraded grassland effectively restored. Water conservation capacity and hydrological runoff have also improved significantly, while vegetation has increased its carbon dioxide absorption by 19 percent and oxygen release by 20 percent.

    From late May to early August, Qinghai Lake’s naked carp enter their spawning season. Tens of thousands of these fish swim upstream into the freshwater rivers feeding the lake, creating a striking natural spectacle known as “half river clear water, half river fish.”

    As the most classic stage of the Tour of Magnificent Qinghai, Qinghai Lake, China’s largest inland saltwater lake, is writing a new chapter in its development as a national wetland park, emphasizing the integrated protection of mountains, rivers, forests, fields, lakes and grasslands.

    Today, the Tour of Magnificent Qinghai has become a driving force for promoting high-quality development in Qinghai, which is emerging as a world-class salt lake industry hub, a national clean energy industry highland, an international eco-tourism destination, a green and organic agricultural and livestock product export base, and a demonstration zone for coordinated development of computing power and electricity.

    An aerial drone photo taken on April 23, 2024 shows a photovoltaic project in Delingha, northwest China’s Qinghai province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Salt lake resources support the dual strategies of food security and new energy transition. Qinghai’s installed capacity and power generation from renewable energy sources rank among the highest nationwide.

    PLATEAU CULTURE AND DEVELOPMENT

    Qinghai is a homeland of multi-ethnic groups living in harmony. The Han, Tibetan, Hui, Mongolian, Tu and Salar ethnic groups are as closely united as pomegranate seeds. The Tour of Magnificent Qinghai has become a “friendship bridge,” fostering cultural exchanges and showcasing rural revitalization on the plateau.

    20-year-old Guo Kuanzhang from Lusha’er Town, Huangzhong District, Xining City, has been learning stilt-walking from his father since childhood. Before the start of the second stage in Duoba Base on July 7, Guo and his companions performed “aerial dances” on 2.5-meter stilts for the cyclists and spectators.

    In the Hehuang Valley, the traditional Shehuo folk performance occurs every Spring Festival, with stilt walking a major highlight. Lusha’er stilt walking is listed as an intangible cultural heritage of Qinghai Province.

    “Practicing stilts has given me a new understanding of courage and strength, and I also wish the cyclists the best of luck,” said Guo.

    Folk artists perform during a Shehuo parade in Xining, northwest China’s Qinghai Province, Feb. 7, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Along the way, the Tour of Magnificent Qinghai has witnessed various regions developing characteristic industries.

    The name of Dongge’er in Shinaihai Town, Gonghe County, means white conch in Tibetan. The fish-watching platform resembles a white conch lying quietly in the curved bay where tens of thousands of naked carp revel.

    The Dongge’er Fish Watching Platform is the collective economy of six villages in Shinaihai Town. In July 2023, the villages established a cultural tourism company which built a 450-square-meter tent food city opposite the fish watching platform, creating dozens of shops selling characteristic agricultural and livestock products such as yak jerky, yogurt and wolfberries. The vast majority of local herders have now become shopkeepers to serve the booming trade.

    Haiyan County’s Xihai Town, the final stage of this year’s race, is situated in the heart of Jin Yintan Grassland. Local official Xie Xiaoling said that the Tour of Magnificent Qinghai has significantly promoted the growth of the local cycling industry, with 16 cycling clubs and over 12,000 bicycles now present in the area.

    A female Tibetan antelope is seen at the Drolkar Lake area in Hoh Xil, northwest China’s Qinghai Province, June 18, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Reflecting on the region’s cultural history, Chinese composer Wang Luobin created the timeless song “In That Distant Place” on the Jin Yintan Grassland in 1940, spreading Western Chinese folk music around the world.

    Today, with the steady advancement of ecological protection and sustainable development, Qinghai is no longer a remote region but a shining example of a modern, eco-friendly plateau. The “green” cycling race continues to paint a vivid new picture of Qinghai’s development and harmony with nature.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s diving team tests new pairings ahead of World Championships

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

    China’s diving team held internal trials Saturday ahead of the upcoming World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, featuring significant lineup changes.

    New partnerships will compete in key events, including women’s 10m platform and women’s 3m springboard. Chen Yuxi, who previously swept multiple Olympic and world titles in women’s synchronised 10m platform with Quan Hongchan, will now partner with Zhang Minjie.

    “I feel her individual dives are quite stable with good height off the board. She can guide me well,” Zhang said.

    “For the synchro event, each has her own style,” Chen Yuxi noted. “The priority is aligning with each other. We need continuous refinement through teamwork.”

    Reflecting on her mindset post-2024 Olympics, Chen added: “The shift is substantial. After three years of intense competition last cycle, I’m starting from scratch this time to gradually regain competition rhythm. Mentally, I feel more stable and mature now.”

    In women’s 3m springboard, Olympic champion Chen Yiwen pairs with newcomer Chen Jia, who has won two World Cup singles titles this season. “I’m looking forward to my first Worlds,” Chen Jia said. Chen Yiwen aims to “regain her sense of purpose” at the event. Both will also contest the singles.

    Veteran Cao Yuan, an Olympic gold medalist in three different diving disciplines, switches back to men’s 3m springboard singles. “This switch demanded tremendous effort. I aim for breakthroughs and hope to execute details well,” Cao said.

    Wang Zongyuan teams with Zheng Jiuyuan in the men’s synchronised 3m springboard. Wang, who will also compete in the singles, stated: “As a major post-Olympics meet, this championship will help identify areas for improvement. I’ll focus on technique and adapt during competition.”

    The men’s synchronised 10m platform features rookie duo Cheng Zilong and Zhu Zifeng. “We’ll motivate each other to adjust mentally,” Zhu said. Cheng added: “As new partners this cycle, we aim to follow in our predecessors’ footsteps for national glory. This requires daily, step-by-step training progress. We’ll keep learning from them.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chen continues giant-killing run at WTT US Smash

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

    Chinese Chen Yi continued her giant-killing spree, defeating more favored teammate Kuai Man to reach the women’s singles final in the WTT US Smash in Las Vegas on Saturday.

    The unseeded 20-year-old from the southeastern province of Zhejiang, who had eliminated China’s world No. 1 and world champion Sun Yingsha and Japan’s ninth seed Hina Hayata, outlasted fifth-seeded Kuai 4-3 (6-11, 11-3, 3-11, 11-9, 9-11, 11-1, 11-9) to set up a title clash against former Chinese national team star Zhu Yuling.

    “Kuai Man and I know each other very well,” said Chen. “We both know whoever is more determined and decisive would win this game.”

    Zhu, a former World Cup winner who now plays for Macao, China, swept seventh-seeded Japanese Mima Ito 4-2 (11-6, 11-9, 6-11, 4-11, 11-6, 11-8) in the other semifinal.

    The 30-year-old Zhu previously stepped away from China’s national team to recover from cancer, pursue her studies, and later become a professor at Tianjin University. She joined the Macao team last year.

    Earlier in the day, South Korea’s An Jae-hyun/Lim Jong-hoon beat France’s Alexis Lebrun/Felix Lebrun 3-1 to win the men’s doubles title.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Rising star Zhang selected for China’s FIBA Women’s Asia Cup campaign

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

    China’s basketball prodigy Zhang Ziyu is set to make her international debut in senior major tournaments as China announced a 12-player roster for the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup on Saturday.

    Standing 2.26 meters tall, Zhang, 18, starred at last year’s FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup with an average of 35 points and 12.8 rebounds, helping China advance to the final and being awarded the MVP of the tournament.

    Zhang is joined by Han Xu, MVP of the previous Women’s Asia Cup in 2023, on the center position.

    The other players included are Wang Siyu, Li Yuan, Yang Liwei, Yang Shuyu, Zhang Ru, Luo Xinyu, Jia Saiqi, Huang Sijing, Pan Zhenqi and Zhai Ruoyun.

    The FIBA Women’s Asia Cup will be held in Shenzhen, south China’s Guangdong Province from July 13 to 20.

    China is placed in Group A along with South Korea, New Zealand and Indonesia, and will kick off its title defense against Indonesia on Sunday.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for July 13, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 13, 2025.

    New Caledonia’s political parties commit to ‘historic’ statehood deal
    By Patrick Decloitre, RNZ Pacific correspondent French Pacific desk New Caledonia’s pro-and-anti-independence parties have committed to an “historic” deal over the future political status of the French Pacific territory, which is set to become — for the first time — a “state” within the French realm. The 13-page agreement yesterday, officially entitled “Agreement Project of

    Twyford praises NFIP lead, calls for inspired peace and regionalism
    Asia Pacific Report An opposition Labour Party MP today paid tribute to the Nuclear Free and Independent Pacific (NFIP) movement, saying it should inspire Aotearoa New Zealand to maintain its own independence, embrace a strong regionalism, and be a “voice for peace and demilitarisation”. But Phil Twyford, MP for Te Atatu and spokesperson on disarmament,

    ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for July 12, 2025
    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 12, 2025.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for July 13, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 13, 2025.

    New Caledonia’s political parties commit to ‘historic’ statehood deal
    By Patrick Decloitre, RNZ Pacific correspondent French Pacific desk New Caledonia’s pro-and-anti-independence parties have committed to an “historic” deal over the future political status of the French Pacific territory, which is set to become — for the first time — a “state” within the French realm. The 13-page agreement yesterday, officially entitled “Agreement Project of

    Twyford praises NFIP lead, calls for inspired peace and regionalism
    Asia Pacific Report An opposition Labour Party MP today paid tribute to the Nuclear Free and Independent Pacific (NFIP) movement, saying it should inspire Aotearoa New Zealand to maintain its own independence, embrace a strong regionalism, and be a “voice for peace and demilitarisation”. But Phil Twyford, MP for Te Atatu and spokesperson on disarmament,

    ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for July 12, 2025
    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 12, 2025.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Openness brings progress, closure leads to backwardness: Chinese FM on US-imposed tariffs

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

    Openness brings progress, while closure leads to backwardness, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday when commenting on U.S.-imposed high tariffs against various countries.

    Amid the ongoing mixture of changes and chaos in the current international situation, every country must make a choice between unilateralism and multilateralism, closeness and openness, unity and division, said Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, who was here attending the ASEAN Plus foreign ministers’ meetings in the Malaysian capital.

    China’s choice is to be more open, he stressed, explaining that this is not only the basic experience of China’s development and growth, but also the inevitable logic of history moving forward.

    China has taken the initiative to provide zero-tariff treatment for products to the least developed countries and the entire Africa, fully completed negotiations on the Version 3.0 China-ASEAN Free Trade Area, and has created a new model of cross-regional cooperation at the ASEAN-China-GCC summit, he added.

    In contrast, the high tariffs imposed on various countries are a clear violation of World Trade Organization rules, disrupting the stable operation of the production and supply chains, and hindering the recovery and development of the world economy, said the Chinese foreign minister, adding that such move is irresponsible, unpopular, and unsustainable.

    Wang said that China will continue to stand firmly with countries in the region, promoting unity, cooperation, and collective strength, and will always be an advocate of multilateralism, a defender of free trade, and a contributor to open development, he said. 

    MIL OSI China News –