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Category: Asia Pacific

  • Portugal’s Euro campaign still alive after 1-1 draw with Italy

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A last-gasp equaliser by Portugal’s Diana Gomes against Italy in a thrilling 1-1 draw kept her country’s Women’s Euro campaign alive as her strike cancelled out a stunning second-half goal by Cristiana Girelli on Monday.

    Le Azzurre thought they were through to the quarter-finals after Girelli scored in the 70th minute, shifting the ball to her right foot at the edge of the box before unleashing a curling shot into the top right corner that goalkeeper Patricia Morais had little chance of stopping.

    But Gomes brought Portugal level in the 89th when a corner hit the bar and the Portuguese worked the ball back into the box for Gomes to fire home, sending their raucous fans, who chanted and banged drums throughout the night, into utter delirium.

    The draw spoiled Italy’s chance of clinching a berth in the knockout round on Monday, with Spain the only Group B team to have so far guaranteed a quarter-final spot with their 6-2 win over Belgium in the earlier match.

    (Reuters)

  • Women’s Euros: Putellas finds flow state as Spain thump Belgium 6-2

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Spain striker Alexia Putellas scored two cracking goals as her side defeated Belgium 6-2 on Monday to all but guarantee themselves a spot in the knockout stage at the Women’s Euros, with the 31-year-old saying she found a flow state in the game that made it come easy to her.

    Finding herself in the zone on a wet, blustery evening, Putellas picked up her second straight player of the game award and contributed hugely to Spain overcoming a sloppy start to put the Belgians to the sword.

    “I think there are plenty of moments in a game, the team had an excellent performance, and even if we almost always have things we can improve, I believe that team is fine. We feel comfortable, if there’s something that doesn’t work we can change and adapt,” she told reporters.

    Putellas opened the scoring with a typical Spanish goal midway through the first half, punctuating an intricate passing move with a powerful strike, and she netted Spain’s sixth goal late on to cap a fine individual display.

    Asked whether her flow state came from her own performance or from that of the team, Putellas said it was a little bit of both.

    “They go hand in hand; as an individual you think about the group and when you feel we are all together, you flow, it makes me feel good of course,” she explained. “I have this role of creating options, sometimes I finish them, sometimes others do, (but) I’m feeling great.”

    Belgium proved a tough nut to crack but Putellas and her team trusted themselves to score, no matter who ended up getting the goals.

    “When we have them in the low block, we have more options, we are closer to the box. It’s not that it’s better for me or affects my performance, my objective is to choose the best action in every situation,” Putellas said.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DG David Cheng-Wei Wu Visited Taiwanese Contestants of FIRST LEGO League Schedule 2025 Asia Pacific Open Championship

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Director General David Cheng-Wei Wu went to “1 Central Courtyard” in Macquarie University campus to visit our contestants from Taiwan.
    The Taiwanese team, Whimsical , showed D.G. Wu robots assembled by themselves, and those robots were designed and coded to accomplish all tasks required in the competition.
    Team Whimsical also set up a booth to demonstrate Taiwanese hospitality by offering local treats and games.
    We thank Team Whimsical for perfectly promoting Taiwan’s image through their talent and technological ingenuity.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Interest rates are on hold at 3.85%, as the Reserve Bank opts for caution over mortgage relief

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stella Huangfu, Associate Professor, School of Economics, University of Sydney

    Thurtell/Getty Images

    The Reserve Bank of Australia has kept the cash rate at 3.85%, after cutting it in February and May.

    Those earlier moves were aimed at supporting the economy as growth slowed and inflation eased. This time, however, the bank chose to pause, signalling a more cautious stance.

    The decision will be hard for the millions of mortgage holders and aspiring home owners who were hoping for a cut.

    But as the bank’s monetary policy board explained:

    the board judged that it could wait for a little more information to confirm that inflation remains on track to reach 2.5% on a sustainable basis.

    The decision surprised many. Financial markets had priced in a 90% chance of a rate cut and the big four banks – ANZ, Westpac, Commonwealth and NAB – had forecast an easing in July.

    On Tuesday afternoon Treasurer Jim Chalmers, would not be drawn on whether the bank had made the right decision but did say:

    it was not the result millions of Australians were hoping for or what the market was expecting.

    By holding steady, the bank is signalling it is not yet fully convinced inflation is returning to target and is prepared to wait for further evidence before cutting again.

    The bank also cautioned that uncertainty in the world economy remains elevated, with the final scope of trade tariffs yet to play out.

    What’s behind this surprise decision?

    The economy grew just 0.2% in the March quarter, with annual growth slowing to 1.3%. This was well below trend and even weaker than the 0.6% pace recorded in the December quarter. The data points to a clear loss of momentum.

    Consumer spending has also remained soft. Retail sales rose only 0.2% in May, following flat or falling results in the two previous months.

    Food spending declined, and sales of household goods were unchanged. Many households are still feeling the squeeze from high interest rates, rising living costs, and low confidence in the economy.

    Inflation has continued to ease. May’s inflation figures showed headline inflation falling to 2.1%, while the Reserve Bank’s preferred trimmed mean – dropped to 2.4% – the lowest since late 2021.

    The trimmed mean is a measure of underlying inflation that excludes the most extreme price changes (both increases and decreases) in the consumer price index basket to give a clearer picture of inflation trends.

    Price pressures have eased across both goods and services, with no signs of wage-driven or second-round inflation taking hold.

    Despite this, the bank decided to pause. While inflation is generally in line with its forecasts, the bank noted:

    the June quarter CPI [consumer price index] figures were slightly stronger than expected at the margin.

    With rates already cut twice this year and broader economic conditions evolving as expected, the Reserve Bank judged it could wait for more data before making its next move.

    What happens next?

    Markets still expect two more cuts this year – in August and November – which would bring the cash rate down to 3.35% by the end of 2025. But this depends on how inflation, wages and the job market evolve.

    Wage growth is slowing. Private sector wages rose 3.3% over the year to March, the slowest pace since mid-2022.

    The unemployment rate stayed at 4.1% in May, with little change in how many people are working or looking for jobs. The job market is still solid, but signs of slowing are emerging.

    The Reserve Bank is likely to move carefully. While inflation pressures have eased, the board wants to be sure prices stay within its 2 to 3% target band. It’s also keeping an eye on the housing market. Home prices rose 0.4% in June and are now up 4.6% over the year.

    That renewed strength, helped by earlier rate cuts and limited supply, could make future decisions more complicated.

    Global conditions still matter

    As the monetary policy board noted, “uncertainty in the world economy remains elevated”. Slowing global growth and fragile trade conditions are adding to the complexity of the bank’s task.

    In Europe, economic growth is expected to reach just 0.9% this year, well below historical norms.

    China’s recovery also remains uneven, despite authorities targeting 5% growth. Weak private investment and ongoing challenges in the property sector continue to weigh on momentum.

    Meanwhile, global trade has stalled. The World Trade Organization expects trade volumes to fall 0.2% this year as tensions and tariffs continue to disrupt supply chains. Ongoing trade threats between the United States and China are also hurting investment and weighing on key Australian exports like resources and education.

    Tuesday’s decision to hold the cash rate steady highlights the Reserve Bank’s cautious approach in a shifting economic environment.

    Growth is soft, inflation has eased back within the target band, and household spending remains under pressure. But with inflation data slightly stronger than expected, the bank is choosing to wait for more confirmation before cutting again.

    This isn’t a change in direction – it’s a pause for more information. The message remains clear: the Reserve Bank is prepared to act, but only when the data warrant it.

    Stella Huangfu does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Interest rates are on hold at 3.85%, as the Reserve Bank opts for caution over mortgage relief – https://theconversation.com/interest-rates-are-on-hold-at-3-85-as-the-reserve-bank-opts-for-caution-over-mortgage-relief-260310

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • US restores $6.8 million aid for Tibetans, State Department says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The United States has restored $6.8 million in funding for Tibetans in South Asia, the U.S. State Department told Reuters on Tuesday, confirming comments by Tibet’s government-in-exile.

    The aid had been cut by President Donald Trump’s administration as part of its “America First” policy that hit a number of programmes, including those aimed at securing food and preventing the spread of HIV in some of the world’s poorest regions.

    Last week, the leader of the Tibetan government in-exile in India, Penpa Tsering said Tibetans became “collateral damage” in U.S. foreign aid cuts, and the funding had since been restored. He was speaking on the sidelines of the 90th birthday celebration of Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama.

    “The (State) Department re-instated $6.8 million in aid for Tibetans in South Asia,” a spokesperson said in response to a query from Reuters by e-mail, without saying when the funding was restored.

    The U.S. has called on China to cease what it describes as interference in the succession of the 14th Dalai Lama, who fled from Tibet in 1959 in the wake of a failed uprising against Chinese rule and took shelter in India. China has said that the succession will have to be approved by its leaders.

    “The United States has had a decades-long, bipartisan commitment to support and help advance the dignity and human rights of Tibetans, as well as help Tibetans preserve their distinct religious, cultural, and linguistic identity,” the State Department spokesperson added.

    (Reuters)

     

  • US restores $6.8 million aid for Tibetans, State Department says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The United States has restored $6.8 million in funding for Tibetans in South Asia, the U.S. State Department told Reuters on Tuesday, confirming comments by Tibet’s government-in-exile.

    The aid had been cut by President Donald Trump’s administration as part of its “America First” policy that hit a number of programmes, including those aimed at securing food and preventing the spread of HIV in some of the world’s poorest regions.

    Last week, the leader of the Tibetan government in-exile in India, Penpa Tsering said Tibetans became “collateral damage” in U.S. foreign aid cuts, and the funding had since been restored. He was speaking on the sidelines of the 90th birthday celebration of Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama.

    “The (State) Department re-instated $6.8 million in aid for Tibetans in South Asia,” a spokesperson said in response to a query from Reuters by e-mail, without saying when the funding was restored.

    The U.S. has called on China to cease what it describes as interference in the succession of the 14th Dalai Lama, who fled from Tibet in 1959 in the wake of a failed uprising against Chinese rule and took shelter in India. China has said that the succession will have to be approved by its leaders.

    “The United States has had a decades-long, bipartisan commitment to support and help advance the dignity and human rights of Tibetans, as well as help Tibetans preserve their distinct religious, cultural, and linguistic identity,” the State Department spokesperson added.

    (Reuters)

     

  • NCS reports 4.1 magnitude quake in Assam’s Karbi Anglong

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An earthquake measuring 4.1 on the Richter scale struck Assam’s Karbi Anglong district on Tuesday morning, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS).

    The tremor occurred at 9:22 am IST at a depth of 25 km, with the epicentre located at latitude 26.51°N and longitude 93.15°E, the NCS reported.

    In a post on X, the NCS said, “EQ of M: 4.1, On: 08/07/2025 09:22:19 IST, Lat: 26.51 N, Long: 93.15 E, Depth: 25 Km, Location: Karbi Anglong, Assam.”

    This comes a day after an earthquake of magnitude 4.5 struck the Andaman Sea at a depth of 10 km. A similar tremor, also measuring 4.5, was recorded in the same region on Sunday.

    Further information is awaited. (ANI)

  • NCS reports 4.1 magnitude quake in Assam’s Karbi Anglong

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An earthquake measuring 4.1 on the Richter scale struck Assam’s Karbi Anglong district on Tuesday morning, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS).

    The tremor occurred at 9:22 am IST at a depth of 25 km, with the epicentre located at latitude 26.51°N and longitude 93.15°E, the NCS reported.

    In a post on X, the NCS said, “EQ of M: 4.1, On: 08/07/2025 09:22:19 IST, Lat: 26.51 N, Long: 93.15 E, Depth: 25 Km, Location: Karbi Anglong, Assam.”

    This comes a day after an earthquake of magnitude 4.5 struck the Andaman Sea at a depth of 10 km. A similar tremor, also measuring 4.5, was recorded in the same region on Sunday.

    Further information is awaited. (ANI)

  • ‘Buzzing’ Archer in the selection frame for third test vs India, says McCullum

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Jofra Archer is fit and ready to go if called upon for England’s third test against India, coach Brendon McCullum said, as the injury-plagued fast bowler edges closer to a return in the longest format.

    Archer has taken 42 wickets in 13 tests but has not played in the format since February 2021 after a succession of elbow injuries and back issues sidelined him for long periods.

    The 30-year-old was added to the squad for the second test at Edgbaston but did not make the starting side as England suffered a crushing 336-run defeat which levelled the five-match series at 1-1.

    “Jofra is looking fit, he’s looking strong, he’s looking ready to go, and he’ll come into calculations,” McCullum told reporters ahead of the July 10-14 test at Lord’s.

    “It’s hugely exciting. He’s buzzing as well. He’s obviously been through his injuries and his time out of test cricket.

    “We all know what he’s capable of achieving in test cricket and we hope that when the opportunity does arrive for him, he’s able to recapture, and also improve on, what he’s been able to do already in that form of the game.”

    England would also resist any temptation to promote in-form Jamie Smith up the order after the wicketkeeper-batter scored 184 and 88 while batting at number seven, McCullum added.

    “He’s just developing at rapid speed, and from our point of view, we’re very happy with him at number seven and with the gloves on,” he said.

    “He does look world class. When we made the decision to bring Jamie Smith into test cricket, we were hopeful that he’d be able to have that sort of impact, obviously in the middle, but also being able to have the power that he’s got with the tail too.”

    (Reuters)

  • Proceeding with the Constitutional mechanism of dealing with the judge is not the solution; what is the source of the money? It belonged to whom?-VP

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    lign=”center”>I am all for independence of Judiciary; we must have courage to confront uncomfortable truths within our own institutions-VP
    Pick and choose for post-retirement posts for judges seriously impairing our Judiciary- VP
    The President and the Governor are the only two constitutional offices who take oath to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution-VP
    Preamble of our Constitution was changed during a time when hundreds and thousands of people were behind the bars-VP

    The Vice-President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, today said that, “Proceeding with the Constitutional mechanism of dealing with the judge in terms of constitutional provision is one way out, but that is not a solution because we claim to be a democracy which we are.  The world looks at us as a mature democracy where there has to be rule of law,  equality before law which means every crime must be investigated.  If the money is so huge in volume, we have to find out. Is it tainted money?  What is the source of this money?  How was it stocked in the  official residence of a judge?  It belonged to whom? Several penal provisions are violated in the process. I do hope  an FIR will be registered. We must go to the root of the matter because for democracy it matters,  that our judiciary  in whom the faith  is unshakable, it’s very foundations have been shaken. The citadel is tottering because of this incident.

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1942136665524605278

    Interacting with the students and faculty members at the National University of Advance Legal Studies (NUALS) today, Referring to Shakespeare’s famous play “Julius Caesar”, Shri Dhankhar stated, “ My young friends, if you have heard of the Ides of March. Those of you who have read Julius Caesar. where the soothsayer cautioned Caesar, beware of the ideas of March. And when Caesar was going from the palace to the courtroom he spotted the soothsayer and he said- Ides of March has come. And  the soothsayer said, yes,  but not gone, and before the day was over, Caesar was assassinated. Ides of March is associated with misfortune and doom. Our judiciary had ides of March  on the night intervening 14th and 15th March,  a terrible time ! There was cash all  at the residence of a Judge in large quantum.  I say so because it is now in public domain,  officially put up by the Supreme Court that the official residence  of  a judge of the High Court,  cash in large amount was found.  Now the point is,  if that cash was found, system should have moved immediately  and the first process would have been to deal with it  as a criminal act.  Find out those who are culpable.  Bring them to justice. But so far, there has been no FIR. The government at the central level is handicapped because an FIR cannot be registered in view of a judgment of the Supreme Court rendered in early 90s.”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1942138345347576273

    Exhorting the students to have courage to confront problems, he underlined, “ We must have courage to confront problems. We must not rationalise failures. We must always remember we belong to a nation that has to define global narrative. We have to be architects of a world that lives in peace and harmony. We must have first courage to confront uncomfortable truths within our own institutions.….. I’m all for independence of Judiciary.  I’m a strong votary of protecting judges.  Judges deal with very difficult situations.  They decide  cases  against  the executive.They deal in certain areas where legislature matters. We must  protect our Judges  from frivolous litigation. So I’m not against the mechanism  evolved, but when something like this happens. Some things are worrisome !”

     

    “We had turbulent times in the judiciary recently. But the good thing — and soothing — is that a big change has taken place. We are seeing good times now for the judiciary. The present Chief Justice and his immediate predecessor gave us a new era of accountability and transparency. They are getting things back on the rails. But the earlier two years were very disturbing, very challenging. The normal system was not normal. Thoughtlessly, several steps were taken — it will take a while to undo them. Because it is very fundamental that institutions function with optimal performance”, he added

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1942125487129858376

    “The judiciary in our country commands immense trust, immense respect of the people. People believe in the judiciary like no other institution. If their faith is eroded — shaken in the institution — we will be faced with a grim situation. A nation of 1.4 billion will suffer”, he further added.

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1942117656808849675

    Expressing his concern over post retirement assignments for judges, he emphasised, “Certain constitutional authorities are not permitted to hold  assignments after their office like a Public Service Commission member cannot take any assignment under the government. CAG can’t take that assignment.  Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners can’t take that assignment because they must be free, not to be subjected to allurements and temptations. This was not for judges.  Why?  Because  judges were expected to be totally away from it.  And now we are post-retirement, post for judges.  Am I right? And not all can be accommodated, only some can be accommodated.  So when you can’t accommodate all, you accommodate some, there is pick and choose. When there is pick and choose, there is patronage. It is seriously impairing our judiciary.”

    Underscoring the significance of the nature of oath taken by the President of India and Governors, Shri Dhankhar stated, “ The President and the Governor are the only two constitutional offices who have an oath different than the Vice-President, the Prime Minister, the Chief Minister, Members of Parliament, Members of Assembly, and other functionaries like judges. Because all of us — the Vice-President, the Prime Minister, and others — we take oath to abide by the Constitution, but the Hon’ble President and the Hon’ble Governor — they take oath to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution. Am I clear? So, their oath is not only very distinct, their oath is obligating them with the onerous task of preserving, protecting, and defending the Constitution. I hope there is realization all around about this constitutional ordainment for the post of the Governor…..Second, what stands out the President or the Governor, apart from the rest of us, like the Vice-President, Prime Minister and Chief Ministers and Ministers, is only these two designations have immunity from prosecution. No one else has. While they hold office, they are immune to any prosecution, pending or contemplated. And I am so happy and delighted that Shri Rajendra V. Arlekar is setting very high standards as Governor because a Governor is easy punching bag”.

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1942117359915094169

    Speaking about the amendments to the preamble of Indian Constitution he stated, “There has been lot of issue about preamble to the Constitution. Well first let me tell you, preamble of Indian constitution is something like parenthood to children. Howsoever you may try,  you can’t change your parenthood. Am I right?  That’s not possible. That is preamble. Secondly, historically no country’s preamble has ever been changed. Thirdly, preamble of our Constitution was changed during a time when hundreds and thousands of people were behind the bars. The darkest period of our democracy, the emergency era.  Then it was changed where the life of the Lok Sabha was also increased beyond 5 years.  It was changed at a time when people had no access to the justice system. Fundamental rights were totally suspended. You need to examine it. We may do anything,  we surely can’t change our parents.”

     

    “You will have to think aloud what happened in 42nd Constitutional Amendment  Act. What happened in 44th and what was left over? Why lakhs were jailed without access to judiciary?  How come 9 High Courts decided in favour of the citizen but  the Supreme Court, the highest court of the land failed us in  ADM’s Jabalpur case. And reversed,  indicating two things—-It is absolute prerogative of the executive to impose emergency  and to impose emergency for as much time it takes. In 1975, it was 20 plus months, and during the proclamation of emergency period,  there will be no access to Judiciary.  So we forfeited at that point of time our total claim  to be a democratic nation”, he added.

    Underscoring the significance of doctrine of separation of powers, he said, “ Constitutional essence and spirit is optimally nurtured and sustained  and it blossoms with each of the pillars of constitution working in tandem to get the nation in harmony but if the legislature, the executive and judiciary are not on the same page,  if they are not in sync with each other, If there is no harmony amongst them,  then the situation gets little worrisome. And that is why as law students you will be  focusing on doctrine of separation of powers.  The issue is not which is supreme.  Each institution of the Constitution is supreme in its own area”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1942121770250842146

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1942126293320900910

    “If one institution — the judiciary, the executive, or the legislature — makes an incursion into the domain of the other, it has the potential to upset the apple cart. It can create unmanageable problems that can be potentially very dangerous for our democracy. For example, let me give it to you in layman’s language: Adjudication has to take place within the judiciary. Judgments are to be scripted by the judiciary — not by the legislature, not by the executive. And similarly, executive functions are performed by whom? By the executive. And why? Because you elect the executive — the political executive — through elections. They are accountable to you. They have to perform. They have to face elections. But if executive functions are done by, let’s say, the legislature or the judiciary — that will be antithetical to the  essence and of the doctrine of separation of powers……I am aghast  that a functionary of the executive like the CBI director  is appointed  with the participation of Chief Justice of India.  Why?  And just think,  and steer your minds.  CBI director is not the senior most person in the hierarchy. He  has above him several layers,  CVC,  Cabinet Secretary, all Secretaries.  After all, he’s heading a department.  You must  use your pen.  Is it happening elsewhere in the world?  Can it happen under our constitutional scheme?  Why should an appointment of the executive be made by anyone else other than the executive.  I strongly say so.”, he added.

  • Wartime innovation boosts Israeli defence tech growth, drawing global interest

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Israeli army reservist Zach Bergerson felt he had to take action when he saw fellow soldiers having to rely on their eyes and ears to detect swarms of enemy drones overhead.

    So the high-tech professional, 36, developed a wearable device that uses mobile phone technology to warn troops of aerial threats. Like other reservists, Bergerson has leveraged his civilian expertise and military experience to bolster Israel’s defence industry.

    Known as SkyHoop, his startup has since emerged from stealth mode – a period when startups typically work in secrecy – to be piloted in Ukraine with discussions under way for a trial by the U.S. Defense Department.

    While U.S. President Donald Trump brokers a Gaza ceasefire, Israeli startups like Bergerson’s are drawing investment from U.S. and Israeli venture capital firms and looking to build on a growing European market for Israeli defence exports.

    More than a third of all defence tech startups registered with the country’s Startup Nation Central, an organization that tracks Israeli innovation, were created since a deadly Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, launched the war in Gaza.

    In June, while Israel attacked Iranian nuclear and ballistic missile targets, their 12-day air war highlighted the efficacy of Israel’s aerial defences. Israel successfully intercepted 86% of Iran’s ballistic missile launches, the Defence Ministry said.

    The changing nature of war has led to shifts in defence procurement worldwide. Western armies demand new battle-tested technology, refined by soldiers in combat. Some 20% of Israeli reservists work in the robust high-tech sector.

    Israeli defence startups have drawn investment from major American venture capital firms that previously avoided the sector as it was considered riskier and mired in regulation. Israeli VC firms have emerged as well to invest in defence.

    Lital Leshem, an Israeli reservist, in December co-founded Protego Ventures, a fund that has studied some 160 defence companies and raised around $100 million. She expects the fund will invest in around four companies by year’s end.

    “Reservists are coming out of the battlefield and are actually putting together new companies to solve real problems that they have experienced in real time on the battlefield,” Leshem told Reuters.

    These companies will face major challenges scaling up to the global market and overcoming regulatory hurdles, Leshem said, but she predicts that, like Israel’s cyber industry, it is a field in which Israeli entrepreneurs can thrive.

    These startups formerly viewed the U.S. as the “holy grail” for their target market, Leshem said, but that is also changing.

    EYES ON EUROPE

    Israeli startups are hoping to benefit from Trump’s demand that European countries take over from the U.S. more of the burden of defending their continent.

    Under a new NATO defence spending plan, countries will spend 5% of GDP – up from 2% – on defence. The figure includes 3.5% of GDP on “core defence” such as weapons and troops and 1.5% on security-related investments.

    Such an increase – to be phased in over 10 years – will mean hundreds of billions of dollars more spending on defence.

    Israel’s defence exports hit a record $14.8 billion in 2024, according to Defence Ministry figures released last month, while exports to Europe comprised more than 50% of these sales, up from 35% in 2023.

    Despite calls from some countries to boycott Israeli weapons, “when one side is purchasing, in the end, they want to buy the best product possible,” said Reserve Brigadier General Yair Kulas, head of the Defence Ministry International Defence Cooperation Directorate.

    Largely as a result of the Russia-Ukraine war, Kulas said, European states are upgrading their militaries, sending older equipment to Ukraine and replacing it with new products, many of them from Israel. Kulas said the story of Israeli weapons exports is also part of a larger global trend.

    The political backlash is worrisome, Kulas said, because on the one hand Israel’s innovation is groundbreaking and world-class but there has been a “delegitimization of Israel”.

    More than 57,000 Palestinians have been killed, most of them civilians, local health officials have said, in the 21 months since Israel launched its assault on Gaza, displacing the population and leaving the territory in ruins.

    “I don’t know how it will impact the results in 2025,” Kulas told Reuters. He said it is “certainly a huge challenge.”

    Avi Hasson from Startup Nation Central said the surge of new defence startups created by reservists is reminiscent of a technological revolution 20 years ago that would later evolve into smartphones.

    Startups may prompt larger Israeli defence companies such as ElbitESLT.TA, Rafael and Israel Aerospace Industries to either try to acquire more Israeli startups and help bring them up to scale or develop their own technology at a faster pace.

    “We are now in a different world,” Hasson told Reuters.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ombudsman briefs Legislative Council Members on work results in 2024-25

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Office of The Ombudsman:

    The Ombudsman, Mr Jack Chan, today (July 8) attended an annual meeting with the Legislative Council (LegCo) and briefed members on the progress and results of the Office of The Ombudsman’s work in 2024-25. Looking forward, the Office will drive positive change in public administration, especially by streamlining workflow and enhancing efficiency to bring about further improvement in public administration. Mr Chan also exchanged constructive views with LegCo Members on matters of mutual concern.

    At the meeting, Mr Chan mentioned that in response to the motherland’s expectations of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), the Office will stay bold in reform, dare to break new ground, and innovate continuously. In the reporting year, the Office championed three strategic focuses and achieved satisfactory results in various areas. Mr Chan said, “On the front of mediation, the Office achieved unprecedented results during the reporting year, concluding an all-time high of 555 cases involving no or only minor maladministration.” Based on the motto of “responding to people’s needs”, the Office helped the complainants out of their predicament speedily and amicably through mediation, while the departments could also review internal procedures and make improvements, thereby enhancing the standards of public administration. The results were encouraging as the Office’s mediation work was highly commended by both complainants and departments.

    Interdepartmental collaboration is another strategic focus of the Office. At the meeting, Mr Chan elaborated that after analysing the interdepartmental collaboration cases handled over the past, positive impact was observed in four major areas: clarifying the demarcation of responsibilities, grasping the crux of the matter, facilitating direct communication and experience sharing among departments, and launching joint operations. The Office has introduced a new series featuring stories of good people and good deeds on social media and its website, showcasing mediation and interdepartmental collaboration closely related to people’s livelihood and highlighting the results brought about by complaint handling.

    During the reporting year, the Office spared no effort in advocating a positive complaint culture through exchange meetings, publicity campaigns, education initiatives and commendation schemes. Not only are the public encouraged to participate in social issues and voice their opinions in a constructive manner, but departments and organisations are also urged to serve the public with open-mindedness. Mr Chan firmly believes that fostering constructive suggestions and positive feedback is conducive to the promotion of good governance.

    Mr Chan highlighted at the meeting several direct investigation (DI) operations widely concerned by the Government, professions and the community, including regulation of occupational safety and health in construction industry, combating abuse of public housing resources, and the arrangements for recovery, refurbishment and reallocation of public housing rental flats. A poignant DI operation was conducted into the provision of public services relating to after-death arrangements. During the reporting year, the Office made 148 recommendations to government departments or public organisations in DI operation reports. Together with the 106 recommendations made in full investigation reports, the total number of 254 recommendations soared by 37 per cent over that in 2023-24 and hit a record high in the recent five years.

    The Office completed a reorganisation in July, under which it has streamlined the directorate establishment from a three-tier to a two-tier directorate structure by freezing the vacancy of Deputy Ombudsman. Instead, three Assistant Ombudsmen, all reporting directly to the Ombudsman, are appointed to head three major divisions, namely the Complaints Investigation Division, the Direct Investigation Division, and the Complaints Assessment and Support Division. The Office has deployed resources more flexibly to increase the number of Direct Investigation Teams from two to three, augment the staffing for complaints assessment, and streamline the complement of Complaints Investigation Teams and administrative and support staff. Mr Chan said, “The Office will adhere to the strategy of training and internal promotion to cultivate a contingent of experienced and competent investigation officers and support staff that are dedicated to our country and Hong Kong.”

    Separately, Mr Chan reported the Office’s international liaison work, including hosting the International Ombudsman Summit 2024 and The Ombudsman’s 35th Anniversary Reception Ceremony in December last year. The event was supported and commended by the Central Government, the HKSAR Government and international counterparts, and widely reported by the media. Around 140 Mainland and overseas participants from about 40 countries and regions across six continents attended the Summit. The Office also signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Bilateral Cooperation with representatives from eight countries and regions across five continents, demonstrating Hong Kong’s important role as a “super connector”.

    The Office actively participated in international affairs. In addition to being the Secretary of the Asian Ombudsman Association, Mr Chan was appointed earlier this year as the Chairman of the Standing By-laws Committee and a member of the United Nations and International Cooperation Working Group  under the International Ombudsman Institute (IOI) respectively. In May, he was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Australasian and Pacific Region of the IOI. Mr Chan pledged to continue playing an active role on international co-operation platforms, presenting to global audiences a good story about Hong Kong from stability to prosperity under “one country, two systems”, and leveraging the unique position of having strong support from the motherland and close connections to the world. Furthermore, the Office will maintain a close relationship with its Mainland counterparts.

    Looking forward, the Office will perform the gatekeeping function under The Ombudsman Ordinance to focus resources on those complaints that require assistance. It will press ahead with promoting mediation to redress public grievances, step up DI operations and make pragmatic and effective recommendations and observations, especially on streamlining workflow and enhancing efficiency to bring about improvement in public administration. Mr Chan also remarked that the preparations for establishing the Hong Kong International Ombudsman Academy are in full swing. The Academy’s first exchange session on mediation is scheduled for August 25, 2025. In line with Mr Chan’s firm belief in “prevention is better than cure”, the Academy will endeavour to instil the concept of “maladministration prevention” in public officers to enhance their vigilance and take precautions against maladministration. This also marks a new milestone of the Office in driving positive change in public administration.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Williamson, Bracewell skip New Zealand’s tour to Zimbabwe

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Kane Williamson and Michael Bracewell will skip the upcoming two-test tour of Zimbabwe with the blessing of New Zealand Cricket, while paceman Ben Sears has been ruled out by a side injury.

    Rob Walter, who replaced Gary Stead as coach last month, named his first test squad on Tuesday, awarding a call-up to uncapped young fast bowler Matt Fisher and recalling experienced hands Ajaz Patel and Henry Nicholls.

    “Kane and Michael were up front with New Zealand Cricket about their availability for this tour during the contracting process,” Walter said in a news release.

    “While all test matches are hugely special and important, the fact these tests aren’t part of the World Test Championship did influence the discussions on this occasion.

    “We will obviously miss their talent and class, but it allows an opportunity to others and we’re lucky to be able to call on the likes of Ajaz and Henry who are both proven performers at test level.”

    All-rounder Bracewell has been allowed to miss the tour to play in The Hundred in England, while paceman Kyle Jamieson has elected to stay in New Zealand for the birth of his first child.

    Jamieson’s absence offers potential opportunities for Fisher and Jacob Duffy, who has played short-format matches for New Zealand but is yet to win a test cap, in the two matches in Bulawayo in late July and early August.

    Team: Tom Latham (captain), Tom Blundell, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Fisher, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitch Santner, Nathan Smith, Will Young

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI: Voice Messaging App ‘buz’ Debuts ‘Kansai Vibes’ Japanese Voice Filter and Social Sharing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — buz, the voice messaging app that recently topped app store rankings across multiple countries, has released a product update today, with a spotlight on Japanese users. The update introduces the Kansai Vibes voice filter—buz’s most technically advanced filter to date—along with a suite of new features designed to enable more user creativity and social sharing.

    Kansai Vibes: Innovation in Voice Filters

    The Kansai Vibes voice filter brings vibrant regional Japanese dialects—like those from Kansai, a south-central region of Japan known for its expressive speech and major cities like Osaka and Kyoto—to life using a completely new speech synthesis approach.

    Instead of simple voice conversion, buz now uses automatic speech recognition (ASR) to transcribe the user’s voice, a large language model (LLM) to rewrite it in the Kansai dialect, and finally text-to-speech (TTS) to generate a fresh, natural-sounding Kansai-accented voice. Each output is randomized, allowing for a variety of tones—from playful and anxious to bold or sarcastic—and featuring both male and female voices.

    The Kansai Vibes launch is part of buz’s broader push to localize content for a culturally diverse audience. By capturing the nuance and personality of one of Japan’s regional dialects, buz is deepening its appeal among Japanese users and other international users who are interested in Japanese culture.

    New ‘Featured’ Tab and Social Video Sharing

    The app’s new update also debuts a Featured tab, where filters come to life with dynamic previews and social-ready content designed to spark creativity and encourage sharing. Users can now export voice-based creations directly to video, complete with visual effects and captions, then easily and quickly post them across social platforms.

    New creative tools introduced in this release include fresh bubble styles, updated text templates, voice-to-video generation, and support for third-party video sharing—making it easier than ever to make voice moments into compelling, shareable content.

    Global Momentum and User Excitement

    buz continues its organic growth, gaining strong traction across many markets as users embrace its fresh take on voice-driven social interaction. The app is also showing strong signs of popularity among young users in Japan and around the world, reflecting its broad cross-cultural appeal. In Japan, buz has ranked #5 in the Apple App Store’s Social Networking category and #7 in Google Play’s.

    Additionally, buz has reached the #1 spot in the Social Networking category of 12 countries on the App Store and four countries on Google Play. It has also ranked among the top 10 social networking apps in 133 countries on the App Store and 53 countries on Google Play, including the US, UK, Germany, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Philippines. This strong viral growth across different markets demonstrates strong growth and momentum in diverse cultural contexts. With 4.9 stars on the App Store and 4.8 stars on Google Play, buz maintains one of the highest user satisfaction ratings in its category.

    Download buz:

    App Store

    Google Play

    About buz

    buz is voice messaging made fast, natural and fun. Developed by Singapore-based Vocalbeats, the leading audio-based and voice-driven messaging app bridges age, language and cultural gaps, and is part of the Company’s vision to create the world’s largest audio platform to better connect and communication. With over 29 million downloads globally, buz enables effortless connectivity among users—anytime and anywhere—through secure, clear voice transmissions and a user-centric interface.

    buz is available on the App Store and Google Play.

    For more information, please visit www.buz.ai.

    About Vocalbeats

    Vocalbeats is dedicated to building the world’s largest audio platforms to better connect and communicate while pioneering innovation in AI-powered products and experiences. The Company fosters a globally diverse and inclusive team, committed to revolutionizing audio platforms by leveraging the synergy of heterogenous perspectives. This commitment ensures the creation of innovative products that resonate worldwide.

    For more information, please visit https://www.vocalbeats.com.

    Media contact: media@vocalbeats.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Infinitesima Metron®3D 300mm System Released for In-line Process Control by Leading DRAM Manufacturer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    News Highlights

    • Ultra-fast, in-line atomic force microscope (AFM), the Metron®3D, goes online for advanced DRAM manufacturing at SK hynix in Korea
    • The Metron®3D is able to generate images at speeds 10× that of a typical AFM, suitable for the rapid pace of high-volume manufacturing (HVM)

    ABINGDON, United Kingdom, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Infinitesima today announced that SK hynix, a full stack artificial intelligence (AI) memory provider, has adopted the Metron®3D 300mm in-line wafer metrology system and released it for use in volume production. The Metron3D provides three-dimensional (3D) process control with sub-nanometre accuracy, crucial for fabrication of SK hynix’s next-generation memory devices.

    The release to production follows an extensive evaluation period, applying the system for characterization across multiple process steps.

    Mr. Young-Hyun Choi, Head of DMI (Defect Analysis, Metrology and Inspection Technology), stated, “Three-dimensional process control at the nano-scale level is becoming increasingly important to ensure high yield in advanced DRAM processes. Infinitesima’s Metron®3D has demonstrated excellent sub-nanometre 3D metrology with the required cost-of-ownership necessary for HVM implementation.”

    The Metron®3D features Infinitesima’s proprietary Rapid Probe Microscope™ (RPM™) technology that provides AFM measurement capability at 10× to 100× typical AFM throughput. The system’s capabilities also include fully automated wafer, data, and probe handling, making it optimal for in-line volume production of semiconductor devices. The investment in this metrology solution highlights SK hynix’s commitment to maintaining technical leadership in the development and manufacture of computer memory.

    “We are delighted to be working with SK hynix; their support and guidance has enabled rapid qualification of our Metron®3D system and deployment in HVM,” stated Peter Jenkins, Infinitesima President & CEO.

    About Infinitesima

    Infinitesima Limited is a UK-based leader in advanced metrology solutions for the semiconductor industry. The company has pioneered an innovative technology combining atomic force microscopy’s 3-dimensional surface detection capability, high-speed laser activation, and the accuracy of interferometry, the RPM™ (Rapid Probe Microscope), protected by an extensive patent portfolio.

    Semiconductor manufacturers increasingly require higher-resolution 3D metrology solutions to control next-generation processes that cannot be addressed by current optical and electron beam techniques. Infinitesima has introduced a high-speed metrology system, Metron®3D, featuring the company’s patented RPM™ technology, to address the growing customer need for in-line sub-nanometre* 3D process control. For more information, visit www.infinitesima.com.

    * 1 nanometre (nm) is 10-9of a meter; a single silicon atom is ~0.2 nm in diameter.

    About SK hynix

    SK hynix Inc., headquartered in Korea, is the world’s top tier semiconductor supplier offering Dynamic Random Access Memory chips (“DRAM”) and flash memory chips (“NAND flash”) for a wide range of distinguished customers globally. The Company’s shares are traded on the Korea Exchange, and the Global Depository shares are listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. Further information about SK hynix is available at www.skhynix.com, news.skhynix.com.

    Company contacts

    James Robinson, Product Marketing, Director

    james.robinson@infinitesima.com

    Peter Jenkins, President & CEO

    peter.jenkins@infinitesima.com

    www.infinitesima.com

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/6717920

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Himax Technologies, Inc. Schedules Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results Conference Call on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 8:00 AM EDT

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TAINAN, Taiwan, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Himax Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: HIMX) (“Himax” or “Company”), a leading supplier and fabless manufacturer of display drivers and other semiconductor products, today announced that it will hold a conference call with investors and analysts on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. US Eastern Daylight Time and 8:00 p.m. Taiwan Time to discuss the Company’s second quarter 2025 financial results.

    HIMAX TECHNOLOGIES, INC. SECOND QUARTER 2025 EARNINGS CONFERENCE CALL
    DATE: Thursday, August 7, 2025 
    TIME: U.S.       8:00 a.m. EDT 
      Taiwan  8:00 p.m. 
         
    Live Webcast (Video and Audio):   http://www.zucast.com/webcast/jwY1jFiZ
         
    Toll Free Dial-in Number (Audio Only):
      Hong Kong 2112-1444
      Taiwan 0080-119-6666
      Australia 1-800-015-763
      Canada 1-877-252-8508
      China (1) 4008-423-888
      China (2) 4006-786-286
      Singapore 800-492-2072
      UK 0800-068-8186
      United States (1) 1-800-811-0860
      United States (2) 1-866-212-5567
    Dial-in Number (Audio Only):
      Taiwan Domestic Access 02-3396-1191
      International Access +886-2-3396-1191
         
    Participant PIN Code: 3321007 #  
         

    If you choose to attend the call by dialing in via phone, please enter the Participant PIN Code 3321007 # after the call is connected. A replay of the webcast will be available beginning two hours after the call on www.himax.com.tw. This webcast can be accessed by clicking on http://www.zucast.com/webcast/jwY1jFiZ or visiting Himax’s website, where it will remain available until August 7, 2026.

    About Himax Technologies, Inc.
    Himax Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: HIMX) is a leading global fabless semiconductor solution provider dedicated to display imaging processing technologies. The Company’s display driver ICs and timing controllers have been adopted at scale across multiple industries worldwide including TVs, PC monitors, laptops, mobile phones, tablets, automotive, ePaper devices, industrial displays, among others. As the global market share leader in automotive display technology, the Company offers innovative and comprehensive automotive IC solutions, including traditional driver ICs, advanced in-cell Touch and Display Driver Integration (TDDI), local dimming timing controllers (Local Dimming Tcon), Large Touch and Display Driver Integration (LTDI) and OLED display technologies. Himax is also a pioneer in tinyML visual-AI and optical technology related fields. The Company’s industry-leading WiseEye™ Ultralow Power AI Sensing technology which incorporates Himax proprietary ultralow power AI processor, always-on CMOS image sensor, and CNN-based AI algorithm has been widely deployed in consumer electronics and AIoT related applications. Himax optics technologies, such as diffractive wafer level optics, LCoS microdisplays and 3D sensing solutions, are critical for facilitating emerging AR/VR/metaverse technologies. Additionally, Himax designs and provides touch controllers, OLED ICs, LED ICs, EPD ICs, power management ICs, and CMOS image sensors for diverse display application coverage. Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Tainan, Taiwan, Himax currently employs around 2,200 people from three Taiwan-based offices in Tainan, Hsinchu and Taipei and country offices in China, Korea, Japan, Germany, and the US. Himax has 2,609 patents granted and 370 patents pending approval worldwide as of June 30, 2025.

    http://www.himax.com.tw

    Forward Looking Statements
    Factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those described in this conference call include, but are not limited to, the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic on the Company’s business; general business and economic conditions and the state of the semiconductor industry; market acceptance and competitiveness of the driver and non-driver products developed by the Company; demand for end-use applications products; reliance on a small group of principal customers; the uncertainty of continued success in technological innovations; our ability to develop and protect our intellectual property; pricing pressures including declines in average selling prices; changes in customer order patterns; changes in estimated full-year effective tax rate; shortage in supply of key components; changes in environmental laws and regulations; changes in export license regulated by Export Administration Regulations (EAR); exchange rate fluctuations; regulatory approvals for further investments in our subsidiaries; our ability to collect accounts receivable and manage inventory and other risks described from time to time in the Company’s SEC filings, including those risks identified in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in its Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed with the SEC, as may be amended.

    Company Contacts:

    Karen Tiao, Head of IR/PR
    Himax Technologies, Inc.
    Tel: +886-2-2370-3999
    Fax: +886-2-2314-0877
    Email: hx_ir@himax.com.tw
    www.himax.com.tw

    Mark Schwalenberg, Director
    Investor Relations – US Representative
    MZ North America
    Tel: +1-312-261-6430
    Email: HIMX@mzgroup.us
    www.mzgroup.us

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, Islington

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Emergency services are currently responding to serious crash at the intersection of Dillons Point Road and Meehan Street.

    Police were called at around 4:40pm to the crash involving a car and pedestrian.

    Initial indications are that the pedestrian has serious injuries.

    Dillons Point road is currently closed from Grove Road.

    Motorists are advised to avoid the area where possible.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name release – hunting incident, Stewart Island

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police can now release the name of the man who died in a hunting incident near Lords River, Stewart Island, on Saturday 5 July.

    He was Jock David Grant Davies, 21, of Dunedin.

    Police extend their sympathies to his loved ones at this difficult time.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of his death are ongoing.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Paul Lam visits the Netherlands

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Justice Paul Lam began his European visit in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, on Sunday by meeting  international organisations, judges from the International Court of Justice (ICJ), government officials and the local business community.

    Upon his arrival, Mr Lam met Hong Kong people and overseas Chinese organisation representatives living in the Netherlands and Luxembourg to learn about their work and life, and shared with them Hong Kong’s latest developments in various areas.

    After arriving at The Hague the next day, he visited the Hague Conference on Private International Law (HCCH) and met Secretary General of the HCCH Christophe Bernasconi.

    Mr Lam thanked the HCCH for its support for the secondment programme of legal professionals of the Department of Justice (DoJ) and exchanged views on further strengthening the co-operation between the DoJ and the HCCH, including hosting an international conference about the Hague Conventions during Hong Kong Legal Week in December.

    During a meeting with Secretary General of the Ministry of Justice & Security of the Netherlands Anneke Van Dijk and officials, Mr Lam introduced the latest developments of Hong Kong and discussed issues such as the development and direction of international legal co-operation.

    Afterwards, he had a lunch meeting with the Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the Kingdom of the Netherlands Tan Jian.

    In the afternoon, Mr Lam visited the ICJ of the United Nations and met ICJ President Yuji Iwasawa, to exchange views on the latest developments in international dispute resolution, including the establishment of the International Organization for Mediation with its headquarters in Hong Kong. They also shared views on the training of international legal experts and professionals.

    At the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) Mr Lam discussed the co-operation between the DoJ and the PCA in the fields of capacity building and international law with PCA Secretary-General Marcin Czepelak.

    In the evening, he attended a business seminar and dinner organised by the Netherlands Hong Kong Business Association, and shared with about 100 participants Hong Kong’s distinctive advantage of enjoying the strong support of the motherland while being closely connected to the world under the “one country, two systems” principle.

    The justice chief stressed that Hong Kong’s legal system is credible and reputable, user-friendly, and closely tied with Mainland China and other parts of the world, making Hong Kong’s legal system exceptional among other common law peers.

    Mr Lam will be in Paris for the second leg of his European visit today.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Indian markets open cautiously higher amid Trump tariff concerns; IT and banking stocks lead gains

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian stock markets opened on a cautious note on Tuesday as investors weighed fresh tariff measures announced by US President Donald Trump. While concerns lingered, traders appeared to adopt a “wait and watch” approach, looking for more clarity on the evolving situation.

    Around 9:30 am, the Sensex was trading 91.57 points, or 0.11 per cent higher, at 83,534.07, while the Nifty 50 rose 22.25 points, or 0.09 per cent, to 25,483.55.

    Buying interest was seen in IT, PSU banks and financial services stocks. Analysts noted that while the US announced unilateral tariffs on 14 countries, India’s exclusion from the list has fuelled expectations of an imminent trade agreement between India and the US.

    “This has already been largely priced in by the market. The focus now shifts to the details, especially any sector-specific tariffs that could impact segments like pharmaceuticals. The market’s reaction will hinge on these finer points,” said Dr VK Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.

    In the previous session, the Nifty had ended marginally higher, forming a green candlestick that followed a bullish hammer pattern — a positive technical signal, according to market watchers.

    “A sustained move above 25,500 could open the door for a further rally towards 25,750. On the downside, immediate support levels are seen at 25,222 and 25,120, which could act as fresh entry points for long positions,” said Mandar Bhojane, Technical Analyst at Choice Broking.

    In early trade, the Nifty Bank index climbed 203 points, or 0.36 per cent, to 57,152.20. The Nifty Midcap 100 index was up 91 points, or 0.15 per cent, at 59,606.75, while the Nifty Smallcap 100 gained 85.70 points, or 0.45 per cent, to reach 19,035.85.

    Within the Sensex pack, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Eternal, Tata Motors, BEL, Adani Ports, NTPC, Asian Paints and UltraTech Cement were among the top gainers. On the flip side, Titan, HCL Tech, Bharti Airtel, M&M and Sun Pharma were trading in the red.

    On the institutional front, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) bought equities worth Rs 321.16 crore on July 7, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) purchased shares worth Rs 1,853.39 crore on the same day, reflecting continued domestic support.

    In broader Asian markets, Seoul, Hong Kong, Japan, China and Jakarta were trading in positive territory, while Bangkok was the only key market in the region trading lower.

    Overnight in the US, the Dow Jones Industrial Average closed 422.17 points, or 0.94 per cent lower, at 44,406.36. The S&P 500 lost 49.37 points, or 0.79 per cent, to settle at 6,229.98, and the Nasdaq dropped 188.59 points, or 0.92 per cent, ending at 20,412.52.

    (ANI)

  • Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurates railway development projects at Karpoorigram station in Bihar

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several infrastructure development projects at Karpoorigram railway station in Bihar’s Samastipur division, marking a significant step toward modernization of the region’s railway facilities.

    The minister began the day with an inspection of Digha Bridge Halt, where he reviewed key passenger amenities, safety, cleanliness, and security arrangements. He instructed officials to ensure a modern and safe travel experience for passengers, stating that enhancing passenger comfort is a top priority for the Indian Railways.

    At Karpoorigram station, Vaishnaw laid the foundation stone for redevelopment works worth Rs 3.30 crore, which will include the modernization of the station building, upgraded waiting rooms, improved sanitation facilities, digital information systems, drinking water units, and accessibility features for differently-abled passengers.

    He also inaugurated several newly constructed passenger facilities and performed the Bhoomi Pujan for Rs 14 crore underground railway subway at Level Crossing Gate No. 59 ‘C’ between Karpoorigram and Khudiram Bose Pusa stations. The subway is expected to reduce local traffic congestion and improve train operations in the area.

    Highlighting the government’s achievements, the minister noted that 35,000 km of new railway lines have been laid in the past 11 years, surpassing the performance of previous governments. He reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to making Bihar an equal partner in the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India).

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Interest rates decision

    Source: Australian Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industry

    Today the independent Reserve Bank left interest rates on hold at 3.85 per cent.

    It’s not the result millions of Australians were hoping for or what the market was expecting.

    We have made substantial and sustained progress on inflation which is why interest rates have already been cut twice in five months this year.

    We’ve seen elsewhere that when central banks cut rates, they don’t always cut at every meeting.

    The RBA has indicated the direction of travel on inflation and interest rates has been established.

    The latest monthly inflation figures showed that both headline and underlying inflation were in the bottom half of the Reserve Bank of Australia’s target band for the first time since August 2021.

    Underlying monthly inflation has been in the RBA’s target band for six consecutive months and is at its lowest level since November 2021.

    On the official quarterly figures, both headline and underlying inflation has already returned to the RBA’s target band for the first time since 2021.

    Headline inflation was 6.1 per cent when we came to office, it’s now 2.4 per cent.

    Under Labor, inflation is down substantially, real wages are up, unemployment is low, our economy is growing, and interest rates have come down twice, but the job’s not done because people are still under pressure.

    Our economic plan is all about easing the cost of living and getting on top of inflation while maintaining jobs and that’s what we’re seeing in our economy.

    Unlike other countries that have faced recessions and job losses, we’ve managed to get inflation down without sacrificing the gains we’ve made in our labour market.

    We recognise that people are still under pressure and there’s more work to do in our economy and that’s why the cost‑of‑living relief that we’re rolling out right now is so important.

    The global economy is uncertain and unpredictable but the progress we’ve made together means we’re well placed and well prepared to weather the storm.

    We are managing this difficult global environment at the same time as we are building a more sustainable, productive and resilient economy.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Saying goodbye is never easy: why we mourn the end of our favourite TV series

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adam Gerace, Senior Lecturer and Head of Course – Positive Psychology, CQUniversity Australia

    Netflix

    Has the ending of Squid Game left you feeling downhearted? The South Korean megahit struck a nerve with audiences worldwide, with millions logging in to Netflix to follow protagonist Seong Gi-hun and fellow players in their fight for survival over three deadly seasons.

    But even if you haven’t seen Squid Game, you’ve probably experienced the sense of loss that comes with the ending of much-loved series. These feelings are very normal, as finales can be deeply meaningful to viewers.

    One of the most famous was the 1983 finale of M*A*S*H*, in which the Korean War ended. The flow rate in two water tunnels in New York leapt by millions of gallons right after the episode ended. Apparently about a million New Yorkers were waiting until the end to use the bathroom.

    A good finale can be a sweet sendoff for viewers after years of investment. A bad one, however, can leave a bitter taste.

    Why finales matter to us

    We watch series for a range of reasons, including excitement, vicarious experience, emotional release and self-reflection. One of the main ways we engage with the stories is through the characters. We may admire them, empathise with them, or even see them as a part of our lives.

    These parasocial relationships are similar to our real-life relationships (except they are one-sided). A show’s ending is ultimately an end to those relationships: a chance to say goodbye to our parasocial friends.

    If a finale strikes a fake chord, or seems to betray the world we’ve come to love, it can make the grieving process harder. An unsatisfying finale might even sour our view of the entire series.

    The need for closure

    Generally, a satisfying finale will be one that offers us closure. One of the earliest examples of this came in 1967 with The Fugitive (1963–67), when 78 million American viewers watched doctor Richard Kimble finally catch his wife’s assailant.

    More recent examples include The Nanny (1993–99) – where the romantic tension between Fran and Mr Sheffield is finally resolved – and Six Feet Under (2001–05), where we found out what happened to all the main characters.

    Closure can also come through the death of important characters, such as in Breaking Bad (2008–13) and Game of Thrones (2011–19).

    The need for narrative closure is a somewhat curious phenomenon. While we often won’t get closure in real life, such as with our own love affairs, or big life events, we still expect this to happen for our favourite characters.

    For me, Mad Men (2007–15) provided the right mix. While we learn the ultimate fates of some characters, we also get the feeling others such as Peggy Olson and Pete Campbell will get up the next day and go to work. We just won’t see them do it.

    Turning it on its head

    Finales also offer a chance to shake things up. In Sex and the City (1998–2004), relationships hang in the balance until the very end.

    Some finales may signal new beginnings, particularly through a big wedding. For exanmple, Dorothy gets married and moves away in The Golden Girls (1985–92).

    In Schitt’s Creek (2015–20), some characters stay in the town, while others move away following the wedding of David and Patrick, presided over by Moira, the grande dame of the Rose family.



    Read more:
    The power of nostalgia: why it’s healthy for you to keep returning to your favourite TV series

    Then there are surprising finales. Whether they aim to provide a final shock, or reflect the quagmire of ending a long-running show, these are usually the most controversial.

    Newhart (1982–90) ended by using a spin on the “it was all a dream” trope, with the final scene linking the show to star Bob Newhart’s earlier sitcom.

    The Sopranos (1999–2007), meanwhile, gave us one of the most talked about and divisive endings in recent memory. It is left to the viewer’s imagination to decide what happened to Tony Soprano. Some saw this as brilliant, others a cop-out.

    Other finales involved big, but for some viewers, disappointing, reveals. These include the identity of the mother in How I Met Your Mother (2005–14), and the resolution of Lost (2004–10), which some fans felt was too ambiguous and complex for a final episode.

    Viewers hoping for a positive or fairy-tale ending may react negatively if it doesn’t come.

    Or, they might feel shortchanged if their reason for investing time in a series – such as to get to the bottom of a mystery – isn’t delivered upon by the end.

    Saying goodbye, together

    Grieving the end of a series is normal. We should honour what these fictional worlds provide us: joy, escapism and personal growth through self-reflection.

    Connecting with our favourite characters matters for another reason, too, because these fictional bonds also help us connect with others in real life. We might grieve with other fans over the sad ending of a show, or vent with them if they also found the finale underwhelming.

    Even when a series is over, relationships between fans can continue through online groups, repeat streaming and fan conventions.

    With time, feelings of loss over a series’ end may make way for other feelings, such as gratitude for having experienced it at all.

    Adam Gerace does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Saying goodbye is never easy: why we mourn the end of our favourite TV series – https://theconversation.com/saying-goodbye-is-never-easy-why-we-mourn-the-end-of-our-favourite-tv-series-260409

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • Markets open in green; Kotak Mahindra, Tata Motors lead Sensex gainers

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The domestic benchmark indices were trading slightly higher on Tuesday morning, tracking cautious optimism among investors.

    At around 9:30 am, the Sensex was up 91.57 points, or 0.11 per cent, at 83,534.07, while the Nifty rose 22.25 points, or 0.09 per cent, to trade at 25,483.55.

    “This has already been largely factored in by the market; the unknown element is the possibility of fresh sectoral tariffs on segments like pharmaceuticals. The market’s reaction will depend on the details,” said Dr VK Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.

    In the previous session, the Nifty closed marginally higher, forming a green candlestick that confirmed a bullish hammer pattern from the session before, according to analysts.

    “A sustained move above 25,500 could trigger a further rally towards 25,750. On the downside, immediate support is seen at 25,222 and 25,120, which may act as entry points for fresh long positions,” said Mandar Bhojane, Technical Analyst at Choice Broking.

    Nifty Bank advanced 203 points, or 0.36 per cent, to 57,152.20 in early trade. The Nifty Midcap 100 was up 91 points, or 0.15 per cent, at 59,606.75, while the Nifty Smallcap 100 gained 85.70 points, or 0.45 per cent, to trade at 19,035.85.

    In the Sensex pack, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Eternal, Tata Motors, BEL, Adani Ports, NTPC, Asian Paints and UltraTech Cement were among the top gainers. Meanwhile, Titan, HCL Tech, Bharti Airtel, M&M and Sun Pharma were trading in the red.

    On the institutional front, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) bought equities worth Rs 321.16 crore on July 7, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) purchased shares worth Rs 1,853.39 crore.

    In Asia, markets in Seoul, Hong Kong, Japan, China and Jakarta were trading in positive territory, while Bangkok was the lone index trading in the red.

    Overnight, the Dow Jones Industrial Average in the US closed at 44,406.36, down 422.17 points, or 0.94 per cent. The S&P 500 lost 49.37 points, or 0.79 per cent, to end at 6,229.98, while the Nasdaq slipped 188.59 points, or 0.92 per cent, to settle at 20,412.52.

    -ians

  • Sinner gets out of jail to reach last eight as Dimitrov retires at Wimbledon

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Top seed Jannik Sinner struggled with an elbow problem and was given an almighty scare before advancing to the quarter-finals of Wimbledon after a cruel twist of fate for his 19th-seeded opponent Grigor Dimitrov who retired injured at two sets up.

    Novak Djokovic continued his quest for Grand Slam glory at the All England Club with a battling victory over Alex de Minaur while five-times major champion Iga Swiatek found her grasscourt wings to fly past Clara Tauson.

    The drama was reserved for the evening clash on Centre Court as Dimitrov, who had pulled out injured in his last four majors, played exquisite tennis to go up 6-3 7-5 2-2 but then crashed to the ground after a big ace to hold serve.

    Sinner, who had been hampered for much of the contest by a right elbow issue after slipping and falling to the turf early on, was left feeling sorry for his opponent who threw in the towel after a short assessment by a doctor.

    “I don’t know what to say because he’s an incredible player. I think we all saw this today,” said Sinner, who was by a tearful Dimitrov’s side while the Bulgarian was attended to.

    “He’s been so unlucky in the past couple of years. He’s an incredible player, a good friend of mine also, and we understand each other very well off the court too.

    “Seeing him in this position… if there would be a chance that he could play in the next round, he would deserve it. Now I hope he has a speedy recovery. Very, very unlucky from his side.

    “I don’t take this as a win at all… just an unfortunate moment to witness for all of us.”

    Sinner later told reporters he would have an MRI scan to check his own injury.

    “It happened very early in the match, first game. It was quite an unfortunate fall. We checked the videos a bit, and it didn’t seem a tough one, but I still felt it quite a lot, especially serve and forehand,” he added.

    “So let’s see… tomorrow we are going to check with MRI to see if there’s something serious and then we try to adjust it.”

    Sinner next faces American 10th seed Ben Shelton, who beat another Italian in Lorenzo Sonego 3-6 6-1 7-6(1) 7-5 to advance to the quarter-finals at Wimbledon for the first time, as did Flavio Cobolli, who downed Marin Cilic 6-4 6-4 6-7(4) 7-6(3).

    ROCKY ROAD

    Djokovic marched into the Wimbledon last eight for the 16th time but the Serbian trod a rocky road before defeating De Minaur 1-6 6-4 6-4 6-4 to keep alive his quest for a 25th major title to surpass Margaret Court.

    Watched from the Royal Box by another great in Roger Federer, the man whose record eight All England Club trophies Djokovic is trying to equal, the sixth seed surrendered the first set in 31 minutes before roaring back to win.

    “We did catch up very shortly,” Djokovic said of his meeting with Federer afterwards.

    “We greeted each other. He congratulated me and said it was a great match. That’s all. It was a very short greeting, but it was really nice to have him around.

    “He’s one of the greatest legends of our game. So it always is extra special when he’s on the stands. I’m glad to break the curse and win in front of him. It’s a big relief.”

    Federer’s fellow Swiss and former doubles partner Belinda Bencic made her first Wimbledon quarter-final in nine attempts after dismissing 18th-seeded Russian Ekaterina Alexandrova 7-6(4) 6-4 in a little under two hours on a breezy Court One.

    The 28-year-old Tokyo 2020 Olympic champion shed tears of joy after she finally broke the fourth-round barrier 15 months since giving birth to her daughter Bella and she said she was surprised at her high level.

    “I’m really happy about it. Of course, I try not to think about it. I feel great on the practice court. When I was coming back, that’s why I felt like I came back earlier than expected, than I expected for myself,” Bencic said.

    “I’m also surprised about how fast the results are coming.”

    She will need all her battling qualities when she takes on seventh seed Mirra Andreeva, the Russian teenager who made short work of American 10th seed Emma Navarro 6-2 6-3 on her Centre Court debut with her idol Federer still in attendance.

    Swiatek shrugged off a slow start to beat Danish 23rd seed Tauson 6-4 6-1 and set up a meeting with Liudmila Samsonova, who saw off Jessica Bouzas Maneiro 7-5 7-5.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Napier man charged after prohibited firearms found in children’s bedrooms

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Five prohibited firearms are out of circulation after Police seized them while executing a search warrant at the home of a firearms licence holder in Napier.

    Detective Senior Sergeant James Keene says the arrest of the 42-year-old man and seizure of the firearms followed close co-operation between Eastern Districts Police and the Firearms Safety Authority, after concerns about the man’s fitness to hold a firearms licence.

    “One of the most disturbing aspects of the arrest involved the discovery of five prohibited firearms, military-style semi-automatics, in children’s bedrooms,” said DSS Keene.

    “The firearms were not locked away as required and ammunition was also accessible. Officers were concerned that vulnerable children could have access to the firearms. The man also did not have the necessary endorsement on his firearms license to possess prohibited firearms,” said DSS Keene.

    The Firearms Safety Authority – Te Tari Pūreke had earlier suspended the man’s firearms licence after he was involved in a driving incident.

    “This case is an excellent example of frontline Police and the Firearms Safety Authority working together to share real-time intelligence that enables risk assessments and interventions to keep the public safe,” said Authority Executive Director Angela Brazier.

    “It is a privilege to possess and use firearms. All licence holders must act in the interests of personal and public safety. We know from daily engagement with licence holders that most are fit and proper to use a firearm, understand their obligations and have no trouble meeting them,” said Angela Brazier.

    The man faces a total of 14 firearms and driving charges include drink driving, dangerous driving and failing to stop to ascertain injury; as well as unlawful possession of prohibited firearms, prohibited parts, prohibited ammunition and prohibited magazines, unlawful possession of a pistol, and using a document to obtain property. He is currently remanded in custody.

    Anyone with concerns about a potential firearms offence can phone Police on 105, or 111 if life is in immediate danger. Anonymous calls can be made to Crime Stoppers 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: The 2024–25 NFP self-review return is due by 31 October

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    Non-charitable not-for-profits (NFPs) with an active Australian business number (ABN) need to lodge an annual NFP self-review return to notify their eligibility to self-assess as income tax exempt. The return is due each year between 1 July and 31 October.

    If your organisation’s 2023–24 return is overdue, you will need to lodge that return before your 2024–25 return.

    If you aren’t sure if your NFP is charitable, or you’re waiting on the outcome of your charity registration with the ACNC, check out the article in this edition of NFP news Lodging the NFP self-review return if your NFP may be charitable.

    How to lodge

    You can lodge online, through our self-help phone service, or with a registered tax agent.

    Once you’ve set up access, Online services for business is the quickest way to lodge your NFP SRR. If you’ve lodged your 2023–24 NFP self-review return, your answers will be pre-populated in your 2024–25 return based on your last lodgment. When you lodge, make sure you review your answers before you submit your return.

    For step-by-step guidance on how to update your ABN details and set up access to ATO online services, check out our Update, connect and lodge (PDF, 184 KB)This link will download a file flowchart.

    If you are experiencing difficulties lodging online, you can still lodge your return using our automated self-help phone service on 13 72 26. You’ll need your NFP’s ABN and a reference number from any letter we’ve posted to your NFP.

    Before you lodge, use the NFP self-review return question guide to preview the questions in the return and prepare your answers before lodging.

    One of the questions on the return asks whether your organisation has and follows clauses in its governing document that prohibit the distribution of income or assets to members while it is operating and winding up.

    We are providing additional support to NFPs and have extended the due date to update governing documents from 30 June 2025 to 30 June 2026 for organisations that have not made any distributions of income or assets to members. To get the extension, answer ‘Yes’ to the question in the return about your NFP’s governing document.

    If you need more help with getting ready to lodge, there are plenty of useful tools and information available to help you understand the NFP self-review return at ato.gov.au/NFPtaxexempt.

    Stay up to date

    • You can read more articles in the Not-for-profit newsroom and, if you haven’t already, subscribeExternal Link to our free monthly newsletter Not-for-profit news to be alerted when we publish new articles.
    • For updates throughout the month, Assistant Commissioner Jennifer Moltisanti regularly shares blog posts and updates on her LinkedInExternal Link profile. And you can check out our online platform ATO CommunityExternal Link to find answers to your tax and super questions.

    MIL OSI News –

  • PM Modi gets warm welcome from Indian diaspora as he arrives in Brasília for state visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday received a warm welcome from members of the Indian diaspora as he arrived in the Brazilian capital for a State Visit. Touched by the gesture, PM Modi described it as a “memorable welcome” and praised the diaspora for staying connected with their roots.

    “Landed in Brasília a short while ago. The Indian community accorded a memorable welcome, once again highlighting how passionate our diaspora is and how connected they remain with their roots,” PM Modi wrote on X.

    PM Modi arrived in Brasília to the beats of a traditional Brazilian Samba Reggae performance after wrapping up a “very productive” visit to Rio de Janeiro for the 17th BRICS Summit. The Indian Prime Minister, who is in the capital for a State Visit, was received at the airport by Brazil’s Defence Minister Jose Mucio Monteiro Filho.

    During his stay in Brasília, PM Modi will meet President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to discuss various issues related to India-Brazil relations.

    PM Modi also shared on X, “At Brasília airport, the Batala Mundo band played some wonderful compositions. Theirs is a global effort to promote Afro-Brazilian percussion, in particular the Samba Reggae from Salvador da Bahia, Brazil.”

    Earlier, the Prime Minister described his Rio de Janeiro visit as “very productive”.

    “Now on the way to Brasília for the State Visit. Will hold detailed talks with President Lula on different aspects of India-Brazil ties. The Rio leg of my Brazil visit was very productive. We had extensive deliberations at the BRICS Summit. I compliment President Lula and the Brazilian Government for the work they’ve done through their BRICS Presidency in making this platform even more effective. My bilateral meetings with world leaders will also boost India’s friendship with various nations,” PM Modi said in a post on X.

    Earlier on Monday, PM Modi praised BRICS for prioritising key global issues such as the environment and health security. He underlined these subjects as crucial for humanity’s future, adding that for India, climate justice is not merely a choice but a moral obligation.

    Speaking at the BRICS session on Environment, COP-30, and Global Health, PM Modi said climate change and environmental protection have always been top priorities for India. “For us, it is not just about energy, it is about maintaining a balance between life and nature,” the Prime Minister said.

    “I am glad that under the chairmanship of Brazil, BRICS has given high priority to important issues like environment and health security. These subjects are not only interconnected but are also extremely important for the bright future of humanity.

    “This year, COP-30 is being held in Brazil, making discussions on the environment in BRICS both relevant and timely. Climate change and environmental safety have always been top priorities for India. For us, it’s not just about energy, it’s about maintaining a balance between life and nature. While some see it as just numbers, in India, it’s part of our daily life and traditions. In our culture, the Earth is respected as a mother. That’s why, when Mother Earth needs us, we always respond. We are transforming our mindset, our behaviour, and our lifestyle,” he said.

    He added, “Guided by the spirit of ‘People, Planet, and Progress’, India has launched several key initiatives — such as Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ (A Tree in the Name of Mother), the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, the Green Hydrogen Mission, the Global Biofuels Alliance, and the Big Cats Alliance.

    “During India’s G20 Presidency, we placed strong emphasis on sustainable development and bridging the gap between the Global North and South. With this objective, we achieved consensus among all countries on the Green Development Pact. To encourage environment-friendly actions, we also launched the Green Credits Initiative.”

    —IANS

     

  • PM Modi arrives in Brasília for state visit, to hold talks with President Lula

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the Brazilian capital Brasília on Monday, marking the second leg of his visit to Brazil after concluding a “very productive” trip to Rio de Janeiro for the 17th BRICS Summit.

    Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Modi was received at the airport by Brazil’s Defence Minister Jose Mucio Monteiro Filho.

    During his State Visit, the Indian Prime Minister is scheduled to hold bilateral discussions with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

    Briefing reporters on Sunday, India’s Ambassador to Brazil, Dinesh Bhatia, said that both sides are expected to sign four agreements or memorandums of understanding (MoUs). These will cover cooperation in renewable energy, counterterrorism, agricultural research between the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Brazil’s Embrapa, and the exchange and mutual protection of confidential information.

    A relationship rooted in shared values

    India and Brazil share a multifaceted relationship which was elevated to a Strategic Partnership in 2006. The two countries also work closely in global and plurilateral forums such as BRICS, IBSA, G20, G-4, the International Solar Alliance and the Global Biofuel Alliance.

    The bilateral relationship is underpinned by a shared vision for a just global order, democratic values and the commitment to foster economic growth with social inclusion.

    Historically, the cultural exchanges between Brazil and India date back to the Portuguese colonial era. Indian cattle breeds like Gir and Kankrej, exported to Brazil in the early 20th century, have significantly contributed to Brazil’s dairy industry. The popularity of Brazilian television series such as Caminho das Indias has also enhanced India’s image in Brazilian popular culture.

    Diplomatic relations were formally established in 1948, with embassies opened in the same year. India’s embassy shifted from Rio de Janeiro to Brasilia in 1971.

    Strengthening economic ties

    The trade relationship between India and Brazil remains robust. In 2024-25, bilateral trade reached USD 12.2 billion, with Indian exports accounting for USD 6.77 billion and imports from Brazil at USD 5.43 billion. Major Indian exports include petroleum products, agro-chemicals, pharmaceuticals and engineering goods. Brazilian exports to India primarily comprise crude oil, soya oil, gold, raw sugar and cotton.

    Indian investments in Brazil are estimated at over USD 6 billion, while Brazilian investments in India are around USD 1 billion. Prominent Indian firms operating in Brazil include Tata Motors, Mahindra Tractors, Infosys, Wipro and Sun Pharma, among others. Conversely, Brazilian companies such as Vale, Stefanini and WEG have a presence in India.

    High-level visits and parliamentary exchanges

    In recent years, high-level exchanges have imparted momentum to the relationship. President Jair Bolsonaro paid a state visit to India in January 2020 and was the Chief Guest at India’s Republic Day Parade. During the visit, an Action Plan was adopted to strengthen the Strategic Partnership, leading to the signing of 15 agreements across diverse sectors.

    Parliamentary engagement has also expanded. Speaker of the Lok Sabha, Om Birla, led a delegation to attend the BRICS Parliamentary Forum in Brasilia in June 2025 and held meetings with Brazilian parliamentary leaders. Earlier, Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Harivansh, participated in the G20 Parliamentary Speakers’ Summit in November 2024.

    Recently, a multi-party parliamentary delegation led by Dr. Shashi Tharoor visited Brasilia to discuss cross-border terrorism following the Pahalgam attack. They met Vice President Geraldo Alckmin and senior Brazilian officials.

    Expanding frontiers: space, energy and health

    India and Brazil collaborate in space technology through agreements for peaceful use of outer space and satellite tracking. India notably launched Brazil’s Amazonia-1 satellite in 2021.

    In oil and gas, Brazil is India’s largest upstream investment destination in the Americas, with Indian PSUs investing over USD 3.5 billion. The nations are also co-founders of the Global Biofuel Alliance, launched at the 2023 G20 Summit in New Delhi.

    Health and traditional medicine are other areas of cooperation. Ayurveda and Yoga are recognised under Brazil’s national policy of alternative medicine, and the two countries have agreed to collaborate on health surveillance, technology transfer and research.

     

  • King Charles hosts Macron in first European state visit since Brexit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Britain’s King Charles will welcome French President Emmanuel Macron to Windsor Castle on Tuesday for the first state visit by a European leader since Brexit in a trip aimed at celebrating the return of closer political ties between the countries.

    The grand ceremonial event will be the first for Macron, who enjoys a good personal relationship with the king. The last state visit to Britain by a French president was in 2008, when Nicolas Sarkozy was a guest of the late Queen Elizabeth.

    Britain has been trying to reset ties with European allies since Prime Minister Keir Starmer was elected last year. The talks this week will focus on a range of issues, including how to stop people-smuggling and improving economic and defence ties at a time when the United States is retrenching from its traditional role as a defender of European security.

    Although there have been tensions over the shape of post-Brexit ties and how to stop asylum seekers from crossing the Channel in small boats, Britain and France have been working closely together to create a planned military force to support Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire with Russia.

    Sebastien Maillard, an associate fellow at London’s Chatham House think tank, said the two sides were seeking to repair some of the damage done by the Brexit negotiations in the run up to Britain leaving the EU in 2020, “when France was more or less playing the bad cop”.

    While Macron’s three-day visit is filled with meetings about economic issues and foreign affairs, the first day of the visit is largely focused on pageantry, and heavy in symbolism.

    Prince William and his wife Kate will greet Macron and his wife Brigitte at a military airport in London and will accompany them to Windsor where they will be officially welcomed by the king and Queen Camilla, and gun salutes.

    They will then travel in a carriage procession through Windsor’s streets, attend a military parade and then have lunch with the royal family at the castle.

    On Tuesday afternoon, Macron will travel back to London to speak to lawmakers in the parliament. The day will end with a state dinner at Windsor Castle, including speeches by the king and Macron in front of about 150 guests.

    MIGRANTS’ RETURN DEAL

    The following day Starmer will host Macron at Downing Street where they will discuss how to stop the flow of tens of thousands of asylum seekers across the Channel.

    British officials are hoping that Macron will agree to a pilot of an asylum seekers’ returns deal. This would involve Britain deporting one asylum seeker to France in exchange for another with a legitimate case to be in Britain, thereby disrupting the business model of people-smuggling gangs.

    A record number of asylum seekers have arrived in Britain on small boats from France in the first six months of this year. Starmer, trailing behind Nigel Farage’s insurgent, right-wing Reform UK party in the polls, is under pressure to come up with a solution.

    France has previously refused to sign up to such an agreement, saying Britain should negotiate an arrangement with all the EU countries.

    On Thursday, Starmer and Macron will host a UK-France summit to discuss other bilateral issues and how to support Ukraine. The two could also announce further cooperation on nuclear investment, such as at Sizewell C.

    Macron’s visit is a sign of a new era in relations.

    Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said in his memoirs published last year that Macron wanted to punish Britain after it voted to leave the EU in 2016.

    Britain and France in recent years have publicly clashed over fishing rights and a submarine alliance that united Britain, Australia and the United States, but left France on the sidelines.

    (Reuters)