Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on Sunday reiterated Cambodia’s willingness for an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire” between the armed forces of Cambodia and Thailand.
In a social media post, Hun Manet said he had a phone discussion on Saturday night with U.S. President Donald Trump over the issue of armed clashes along the Cambodia-Thailand border.
During the conversation, Trump expressed his desire not to see war or fighting that would lead to many deaths and injuries on both sides, including soldiers and civilians, and wished to see an immediate ceasefire and peace between the two countries, said Hun Manet.
“In response, I made it clear to Honorable President Donald Trump that Cambodia agreed with the proposal for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire between the two armed forces,” he said.
Hun Manet said he had assigned Prak Sokhonn, Cambodian deputy prime minister and minister of foreign affairs and international cooperation, to discuss with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio over the ceasefire proposal.
Clashes in the border areas between Cambodia and Thailand began on Thursday, with both sides accusing each other of violating international law.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed pride over the recent achievements by Indians in space, science, sports, and culture.
Addressing the 124th episode of his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi made a special mention of Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, whose recent space mission sparked nationwide joy and pride.
“In the past few weeks, a lot has happened that has made every Indian proud — be it in sports, science, or culture. Recently, Shubhanshu Shukla’s return from space was widely discussed across the country. The moment he landed safely back on Earth, people jumped with joy. A wave of happiness spread across every heart. The whole country was filled with pride,” PM Modi said.
Recalling the excitement and curiosity generated by Chandrayaan-3’s successful moon landing in August 2023, he noted how the mission sparked a deep interest in science and space among children. “I still remember when Chandrayaan-3 successfully landed on the moon… Even young kids now say, ‘We will also go to space, we will also land on the moon and become space scientists.’”
The Prime Minister also highlighted the growing reach of the Inspire-Manak campaign, an initiative aimed at promoting innovation among school children.
“Five children are selected from every school who come up with new ideas. So far, lakhs of children have become part of this initiative, and after Chandrayaan-3, the number has doubled,” he said.
PM Modi spoke about the rapid growth of space-related startups in the country, stating that their numbers have jumped from fewer than 50 five years ago to over 200 today.
In this context, he announced that August 23 will be celebrated as *National Space Day*, and invited citizens to share their suggestions on how they plan to mark the occasion.
Emphasising the new energy driving Indian science in the 21st century, the PM proudly spoke of Indian students winning medals at the International Chemistry Olympiad.
“Devesh Pankaj, Sandeep Kuchi, Debadatta Priyadarshi, and Ujjawal Kesari — these four made India proud,” he said.
Prime Minister Modi also acknowledged India’s achievements in mathematics, noting students’ performance at the International Mathematical Olympiad, where they brought home three gold, two silver, and one bronze medal.
Looking ahead, PM Modi said India will host the Astronomy and Astrophysics Olympiad in Mumbai next month, with participants from 60 countries.
The PM noted that this will be the largest such Olympiad held so far, adding, “In a way, India is now moving forward in both Olympic and Olympiad.”
The Gaza Government Media Office has condemned “in the strongest terms” Israel’s storming of the Handala aid ship, calling it an act of “maritime piracy”, reports Al Jazeera.
“This blatant aggression represents a flagrant violation of international law and maritime navigation rules,” the office said in a statement.
“It reaffirms once again that the [illegal Israeli] occupation acts as a thuggish force outside the law, targeting every humanitarian initiative seeking to rescue more than 2.4 million besieged and starving Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.”
The office also called on the international community, including the United Nations and rights groups, “to take an urgent and firm stance against this aggression and to work to secure international protection for the convoys”.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry confirmed in a statement today that the Israeli navy had intercepted the Gaza-bound Handala, and it was now heading towards Israel.
“The Israeli navy has stopped the vessel Navarn from illegally entering the maritime zone of the coast of Gaza,” said the statement, using the aid ship’s original name.
“The vessel is safely making its way to the shores of Israel,” it added. “All passengers are safe.”
Freedom Flotilla slams ‘abductions’ A statement by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition accused Israel military of “abducting” the 21 crew members of the Handala, saying the ship had been “violently intercepted by the Israeli military in international waters about 40 nautical miles from Gaza.
“At 23:43 EEST Palestine time, the Occupation cut the cameras on board Handala and we have lost all communication with our ship.
“The unarmed boat was carrying life-saving supplies when it was boarded by Israeli forces, its passengers abducted, and its cargo seized.
“The interception occurred in international waters outside Palestinian territorial waters off Gaza, in violation of international maritime law.”
The Handala carried a shipment of critical humanitarian aid for Palestinians in Gaza, including baby formula, diapers, food, and medicine, the statement said.
“All cargo was non-military, civilian, and intended for direct distribution to a population facing deliberate starvation and medical collapse under Israel’s illegal blockade.”
The Handala carried 21 civilians representing 12 countries, including parliamentarians, lawyers, journalists, labour organisers, environmentalists, and other human rights defenders.
Seized crew members, journalists The seized crew includes:
United States: Christian Smalls — Amazon Labor Union founder; Huwaida Arraf — Human rights attorney (Palestine/US); Jacob Berger — Jewish-American activist; Bob Suberi — Jewish US war veteran; Braedon Peluso — sailor and direct action activist; Dr Frank Romano — International lawyer and actor (France/US).
France: Emma Fourreau — MEP and activist (France/Sweden); Gabrielle Cathala — Parliamentarian and former humanitarian worker; Justine Kempf — nurse, Médecins du Monde; Ange Sahuquet — engineer and human rights activist.
Italy: Antonio Mazzeo — teacher, peace researcher, journalist; Antonio “Tony” La Picirella — climate and social justice organiser.
Spain: Santiago González Vallejo — economist and activist; Sergio Toribio — engineer and environmentalist.
Australia: Robert Martin — human rights activist; Tania “Tan” Safi — Journalist and organiser of Lebanese descent.
United Kingdom/France: Chloé Fiona Ludden — former UN staff and scientist.
Tunisia: Hatem Aouini — Trade unionist and internationalist activist.
The two journalists on board:
Morocco: Mohamed El Bakkali — senior journalist with Al Jazeera (based in Paris).
Iraq/United States: Waad Al Musa — cameraman and field reporter with Al Jazeera.
The attack on Handala is the third violent act by Israeli forces against Freedom Flotilla missions this year alone, said the statement.
“It follows the drone bombing of the civilian aid ship Conscience in European waters in May, which injured four people and disabled the vessel, and the illegal seizure of the Madleen in June, where Israeli forces abducted 12 civilians, including a Member of the European Parliament.
“Shortly before their abduction, the Handala‘s crew affirmed that they would be hunger-striking if detained by Israeli forces and not accepting any food from the Israeli Occupation Forces.”
Israeli officials have ignored the International Court of Justice’s binding orders that require the facilitation of humanitarian access to Gaza.
The continued attacks on peaceful civilian missions represent a grave violation of international law, said the Freedom Flotilla Coalition.
“Kia Ora Gaza is a longtime member of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition and supports the current Handala civil mission to break Israel’s illegal siege of Gaza and end Israel’s campaign to wipe out the Palestinian population.
“All governments must urgently take strong effective action to stop the genocide and occupation and end all complicity with Israel. There are no Kiwis on the Handala which was intercepted under an enforced communications blackout today.”
Activists on board the Handala aid ship before leaving Italy’s Gallipoli Port on July 20, 2025. Image: Valeria Ferraro/Anadolu
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
PHNOM PENH, July 27 (Xinhua) — Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on Sunday reiterated his readiness for an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire” between the armed forces of his country and Thailand.
In a post on social media, Khun Manet said he had a phone conversation with US President Donald Trump on Saturday evening regarding the armed clashes on the Cambodia-Thailand border.
During the conversation, D. Trump expressed his desire to avoid war or hostilities that would lead to numerous deaths and casualties on both sides, and his hope for an immediate ceasefire and the establishment of peace between the two countries, Hun Manet said.
“In response, I made it clear to the Honorable President Donald Trump that Cambodia agrees to the proposal for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire between the armed forces of the two countries,” he said.
Hun Manet said he had instructed Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhon to discuss a ceasefire proposal with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Clashes in border areas between Cambodia and Thailand began on Thursday, with both sides accusing each other of violating international law. –0–
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
PYONGYANG, July 27 (Xinhua) — North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un laid a wreath at the China-Korea Friendship Monument on Saturday to mark the 72nd anniversary of the DPRK’s victory in the Fatherland Liberation War (Korean War), the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Sunday.
“The DPRK will never forget the military exploits and merits of the fallen Chinese People’s Volunteers, who went down in the history of the great victory in the Korean War,” the agency quotes Kim Jong-un as saying.
According to KCNA, he was accompanied by North Korean Foreign Minister Choi Son Hee and head of the International Department of the Central Committee of the Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK) Kim Son Nam. –0–
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
PHNOM PENH, July 27 (Xinhua) — Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on Sunday reiterated his readiness for an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire” between the armed forces of his country and Thailand.
In a post on social media, Khun Manet said he had a phone conversation with US President Donald Trump on Saturday evening regarding the armed clashes on the Cambodia-Thailand border.
During the conversation, D. Trump expressed his desire to avoid war or hostilities that would lead to numerous deaths and casualties on both sides, and his hope for an immediate ceasefire and the establishment of peace between the two countries, Hun Manet said.
“In response, I made it clear to the Honorable President Donald Trump that Cambodia agrees to the proposal for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire between the armed forces of the two countries,” he said.
Hun Manet said he had instructed Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhon to discuss a ceasefire proposal with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Clashes in border areas between Cambodia and Thailand began on Thursday, with both sides accusing each other of violating international law. –0–
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Cambodia and Thailand each said the other had launched artillery attacks across contested border areas early on Sunday, hours after U.S. President Donald Trump said the leaders of both countries had agreed to work on a ceasefire.
Four days after the worst fighting in more than a decade broke out between the Southeast Asian neighbours, the death toll stood above 30, mainly civilians. More than 130,000 people have been evacuated from border areas in the two countries.
Cambodia’s Defence Ministry said Thailand had shelled and launched ground assaults on Sunday morning at a number of points, including in Phnom Kmoach, which borders Thailand’s coastal Trat province. The ministry’s spokesperson said heavy artillery was fired at temple complexes.
The Thai army said Cambodia had fired shots into several areas, including near civilian homes, early on Sunday. The governor of Surin told Reuters artillery shells had been fired into the province, damaging a house and killing some livestock.
In the Thai province of Sisaket, Reuters reporters heard shelling early on Sunday and said it was unclear which side of the border it was on.
“If there is a ceasefire, things will be better,” Sisaket resident Thavorn Toosawan told Reuters. “It’s great that America is insisting on the ceasefire because it would bring peace.”
TRUMP SPEAKS TO BOTH LEADERS
Trump said on Saturday that he had spoken with the prime ministers of Thailand and Cambodia and they had agreed to meet immediately to quickly work out a ceasefire to end fighting that began on Thursday. Bangkok and Phnom Penh each say the other side started the hostilities.
“Both Parties are looking for an immediate Ceasefire and Peace,” Trump wrote on social media. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet endorsed the call for the fighting to stop.
“I made it clear to Honourable President Donald Trump that Cambodia agreed with the proposal for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire between the two armed forces,” Hun Manet posted on Facebook, noting he had also agreed to Malaysia’s earlier ceasefire proposal.
Thailand’s response was more qualified, as it had been with the proposal from Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, saying Cambodia needed to do more before talks could begin.
“I thanked President Trump for his concern and expressed that Thailand agrees in principle to have a ceasefire in place. However, Thailand would like to see sincere intention from the Cambodian side,” acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said on Facebook.
The countries have faced off since the killing of a Cambodian soldier late in May during a brief skirmish. Troops on both sides of the border were reinforced amid a full-blown diplomatic crisis that brought Thailand’s fragile coalition government to the brink of collapse.
Thailand and Cambodia have bickered for decades over undemarcated points along their 817-km (508-mile) land border, with ownership of the ancient Hindu temples Ta Moan Thom and the 11th century Preah Vihear central to the disputes.
Preah Vihear was awarded to Cambodia by the International Court of Justice in 1962, but tension escalated in 2008 after Cambodia attempted to list it as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and skirmishes over several years brought at least a dozen deaths.
Cambodia said in June it had asked the court to resolve its disputes with Thailand, which says it has never recognised the court’s jurisdiction and prefers a bilateral approach.
Manchester United made a winning start to the Premier League Summer Series, defeating West Ham United 2-1 at the MetLife Stadium.
Bruno Fernandes scored both goals — a penalty early in the game and a second-half strike — to secure three points in the tournament. Jarrod Bowen pulled one back for the Hammers with a clinical finish and was only denied an equaliser by a sharp save from Altay Bayindir in the dying moments.
United made a blistering start, nearly scoring in the opening minute. Fernandes’s through ball found Rasmus Hojlund, who advanced toward goal and fired a left-footed shot that struck the outside of the post.
Just three minutes later, Alphonse Areola fumbled a high ball that ricocheted off El Hadji Malick Diouf’s back and fell to Ayden Heaven. Though the defender was moving away from goal, he was brought down by the Hammers’ keeper, leading to a clear penalty, according to Manchester United’s official report.
Amorim’s men continued to press forward. Hojlund lashed a decent chance over the bar after his pass was cut out and rebounded back to him. On the half-hour mark, Fernandes fired a dipping shot over the bar from outside the box after receiving a pass from Amad. West Ham’s only notable effort came from James Ward-Prowse, whose acrobatic attempt — following a deep cross from ex-Red Aaron Wan-Bissaka and a header by Tomas Soucek — came to nothing.
United did find the net again in the 38th minute when the impressive Manuel Ugarte broke through and set up Amad. The Ivorian’s calm finish, however, was disallowed for offside in what appeared to be a marginal call.
Amorim’s side kept up the pressure after the break, and within four minutes, Max Kilman was dispossessed by Hojlund. Fernandes latched onto the loose ball and raced clear for a one-on-one with Areola. However, his strike lacked power and precision, allowing the goalkeeper to save. Kobbie Mainoo followed up with a shot that deflected for a corner.
From the set-piece, Matthijs de Ligt’s header — from Fernandes’s looping ball into the box — was well saved by Areola. Just minutes later, with 52 on the clock, Mainoo capitalised on a poor pass from Areola. Fernandes received the ball and floated in a beautiful finish, taking full advantage of the keeper’s poor positioning.
West Ham pulled one back in the 63rd minute through Bowen, who smashed home a powerful shot after Jean-Clair Todibo found Soucek, who in turn teed up the England international.
In the 66th minute, Amorim changed his entire outfield lineup, and West Ham also made several substitutions. The game lost some rhythm, but Luis Guilherme came close in the 84th minute with a fierce drive that flew over Bayindir’s bar.
The Hammers nearly equalised in stoppage time when Bowen fired goalwards again, but Bayindir produced a stunning save to preserve the win and three points for United — ahead of their next match against Bournemouth, who earlier beat Everton 3-0.
Jammu & Kashmir is witnessing a major transformation in its railway infrastructure with the Indian Railways undertaking extensive upgrades in track maintenance and passenger coach facilities. The inauguration of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 6, 2025, marked a turning point in connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country. This new link, which includes the engineering marvels of the Chenab and Anji bridges, has paved the way for the deployment of advanced machinery and modern amenities in the region.
The introduction of modern track maintenance machines in the Kashmir Valley has replaced the earlier manual methods, significantly enhancing the quality and safety of railway operations. Since early June, a tamping machine has been in operation, aligning and stabilising railway tracks by packing ballast underneath. This machine has covered around 88 kilometres of track so far, contributing to smoother train rides. Additionally, four Ballast Cleaning Machines (BCMs) have been deployed, with two of them joining the fleet in July. These machines have deep-screened nearly 14 kilometres of track, ensuring cleaner and more stable track conditions.
To support these efforts, 17 ballast rakes carrying stone chips were sent from depots in Kathua, Qazigund, Madhopur, and Jind. Approximately 19,000 cubic metres of ballast have been laid across the valley’s railway tracks.
Track Recording Car and Oscillation Monitoring System runs were conducted in June and July respectively to assess the quality of the tracks. These assessments have helped in identifying areas that need further attention, ensuring targeted maintenance for optimal performance.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the role of technology in improving safety and working conditions for railway staff. He said that the government is focusing on upgrading track fittings and adopting scientific maintenance practices using ultrasound fracture detection machines, road-cum-rail vehicles, and AI-based defect detection systems.
These changes are expected to significantly improve the overall safety of train operations. As of early 2025, around 78 percent of the country’s tracks support speeds of 110 kmph or more, compared to just 39 percent in 2014. This growth is particularly notable given the increase in total track length to over 1 lakh kilometres, up from 79,342 kilometres a decade ago.
Parallel to the track upgrades, Indian Railways has also launched an overhaul of the passenger coaches operating in the Kashmir Valley. Earlier, due to the absence of a direct rail link, DEMU and MEMU rakes had to be transported on road trailers from Budgam to Lucknow for maintenance. This was not only cumbersome but also inefficient. With the new rail link operational, these rakes are now being brought to the Charbagh workshop in Lucknow and the Jalandhar shed through rail for periodic overhauling.
Several rakes have already undergone or are currently undergoing maintenance. One MEMU rake has been fully overhauled and is back in service, while another is expected to be ready by the end of July. Two DEMU rakes have been or are being serviced at Charbagh, with one set to return by mid-August. Another DEMU rake under renovation in Jalandhar is expected to be operational by the end of July. Four additional DEMU rakes are scheduled for upgradation in the coming weeks.
The upgraded rakes are being fitted with enhanced features to improve passenger comfort and safety. These include anti-graffiti PU exterior painting, bio-toilets with new water pumps, refurbished polycarbonate seating, new standing handles, renewed PVC flooring, buffed stainless steel fixtures, upgraded hopper windows, functional passenger information systems, better mobile charging sockets, and improved power panels for uninterrupted water system operation.
All passenger coach upgradation works in the valley are expected to be completed by August 31, 2025. With these developments, Indian Railways is not only ensuring better travel experiences for passengers in Jammu & Kashmir but is also reinforcing its role as the backbone of the nation’s transportation network. The opening of the Jammu-Srinagar rail link and the ongoing enhancement efforts are poised to become a new lifeline for the people of the region.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated, dedicated, and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth more than ₹4800 crore in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu on Saturday. The initiatives span across key sectors, including airports, highways, ports, railways, and clean energy infrastructure, and are expected to significantly boost regional connectivity, economic growth, and the overall quality of life in southern Tamil Nadu.
Marking the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, the Prime Minister also paid homage to India’s brave soldiers, acknowledging their sacrifice and valor.
Infrastructure and Connectivity Push
PM Modi highlighted the central government’s focus on infrastructure and energy as the backbone of a state’s progress, noting that the past 11 years have seen a continued commitment to Tamil Nadu’s development. “Thoothukudi is witnessing the dawn of a new chapter in development,” he said.
Among the major inaugurations was the new terminal building at Thoothukudi Airport, built at a cost of ₹450 crore. Spanning 17,340 square meters, the terminal is equipped to handle 20 lakh passengers annually—up from just 3 lakh earlier—and will play a crucial role in boosting connectivity for business, education, healthcare, and tourism in the region.
The Prime Minister also inaugurated two major highway projects. The first is the 4-laning of the 50-km Sethiyathope–Cholapuram stretch of NH-36 under the Vikravandi–Thanjavur corridor, developed at over ₹2,350 crore. The second is the 6-laning of the 5.16-km NH-138 Thoothukudi Port Road, constructed at ₹200 crore. These projects are expected to ease cargo movement, reduce travel time, and support industrial growth in the Delta region.
Strengthening Ports and Railways
Furthering the development of maritime infrastructure, PM Modi inaugurated the North Cargo Berth–III at V.O. Chidambaranar Port, built at around ₹285 crore. With a cargo handling capacity of 6.96 MMTPA, the berth is expected to improve dry bulk logistics and boost the port’s operational efficiency.
Three key railway infrastructure projects were also dedicated to the nation. These include the electrification of the 90-km Madurai–Bodinayakkanur line, the ₹650 crore doubling of the 21-km Nagercoil Town–Kanniyakumari section, and the doubling of the Aralvaymozhi–Nagercoil Junction (12.87 km) and Tirunelveli–Melappalayam (3.6 km) sections. These initiatives aim to improve travel time, passenger convenience, and economic integration in southern Tamil Nadu.
Energy and Clean Power Focus
The PM also laid the foundation stone for a key transmission project linked to the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant. Developed at a cost of ₹550 crore, the 400 kV transmission system will help evacuate 2000 MW of power from Units 3 and 4 and strengthen the national grid, ensuring reliable clean energy for Tamil Nadu and other beneficiary states.
PM Modi noted that Tamil Nadu has seen fast progress under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, with nearly one lakh applications and over 40,000 rooftop solar installations already completed, creating thousands of green jobs and promoting clean energy usage.
Economic Growth and Trade Boost
The Prime Minister spoke about the recently signed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the United Kingdom, describing it as a symbol of the growing global trust in India. Under the agreement, 99 percent of Indian products exported to the UK will be tax-free. The PM this would enhance the global demand for Indian goods, benefit MSMEs, youth, and startups, and particularly support Tamil Nadu’s fishing community and innovation sector.
Highlighting the government’s emphasis on ‘Make in India’, he cited the successful use of indigenous weapons during Operation Sindoor as an example of India’s manufacturing strength.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Paying tribute to Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural legacy, PM Modi remembered freedom fighter V.O. Chidambaram Pillai, and historical icons like Veerapandiya Kattabomman, Alagu Muthu Kon, and poet Subramania Bharati. He also underscored the cultural bond between Tamil Nadu and Kashi, exemplified through initiatives like the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam.
The Prime Minister recalled gifting the famed Pandya Pearls of Thoothukudi to Bill Gates last year, highlighting their historical significance in India’s maritime trade.
Long-Term Commitment to Tamil Nadu
PM Modi emphasized that Tamil Nadu has received more than ₹3 lakh crore in central fund transfers over the past decade—three times more than the previous government. He noted that the state has also gained 11 new medical colleges and major investments under the Blue Revolution to support coastal economies and the fisheries sector.
The PM also congratulated the people of Tamil Nadu, stating that the development projects in Thoothukudi mark a powerful step forward in the journey toward a developed Tamil Nadu and a developed India.
The event was attended by Tamil Nadu Governor R. N Ravi, Union Ministers Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu, L Murugan, and other dignitaries.
A yellow alert has been issued in nine districts of Kerala — Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod — as the state continues to experience intense rainfall and strong surface winds.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the heavy downpour is likely to persist until July 30 due to a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal.
The IMD has also predicted strong surface winds, reaching speeds of 50–60 kmph over Kerala and Lakshadweep on July 27, and 40–50 kmph between July 28 and 29.
Very heavy rainfall (12–20 cm in 24 hours) is expected at isolated locations, while heavy rainfall (7–11 cm) is likely in various parts of the state through July 30. A high alert has been sounded for hilly and coastal regions. The relentless rain has triggered damage across the state — trees have been uprooted, houses have collapsed, vehicles have been damaged, and roads have been affected. In many areas, the situation has led to power outages and traffic disruptions.
Mudslides were reported in several highland regions, including Makkimala and Arala.
Speaking to the media, State Revenue Minister K. Rajan said the rainfall is expected to ease from Monday as the low-pressure system weakens. He confirmed that 163 houses have been fully destroyed in the recent spell of rain and assured that compensation will be provided to all affected families.
With rivers overflowing, several dams, including Sholayar and Kakkayam, have been opened. An orange alert has been issued for major rivers such as the Manimala and Pampa in Pathanamthitta, Vamanapuram in Thiruvananthapuram, Pallikkal in Kollam, Achankovil in Alappuzha, Thodupuzha in Idukki, Chalakudy in Thrissur, Valapattanam in Kannur, and the Kabani in Wayanad.
Residents living along riverbanks have been urged to stay vigilant and move to safer locations if necessary.
In Ernakulam and Alappuzha districts, several homes have been flooded due to the continuous rainfall. Two relief camps have been opened in Ernakulam to accommodate those displaced by the floods.
U.S. President Donald Trumpsaid on Saturday the leaders of Cambodia and Thailand had agreed to meet immediately to quickly work out a ceasefire, as he sought to broker peace after three days of fighting along their border.
Thailand’s acting prime minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, thanked Trump and said Thailand “agrees in principle to have a ceasefire in place” but “would like to see sincere intention from the Cambodian side.”
Phumtham was responding in a Facebook post to a series of social media posts by Trump during a visit to Scotland. Trump said he had spoken to Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Phumtham and warned them that he would not make trade deals with either if the border conflict continued.
“Both Parties are looking for an immediate Ceasefire and Peace,” Trump wrote as he gave a blow-by-blow account of his diplomatic efforts.
Phumtham also said he had asked Trump “to convey to the Cambodian side that Thailand wants to convene a bilateral dialogue as soon as possible to bring forth measures and procedures for the ceasefire and the eventual peaceful resolution of the conflict.”
More than 30 people have been killed and more than 130,000 people displaced in the worst fighting between the Southeast Asian neighbours in 13 years.
Before Trump spoke to the two leaders, Thai-Cambodian border clashes persisted into a third day and new flashpoints emerged as both sides said they had acted in self-defense in the dispute and called on the other to cease fighting and start negotiations.
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is deeply concerned by the clashes and “urges both sides to immediately agree to a ceasefire and to address any issues through dialogue,” Deputy U.N. spokesperson Farhan Haq said in a statement.
Haq said Guterres “condemns the tragic and unnecessary loss of lives” and “remains available to assist in any efforts towards a peaceful resolution of the dispute.”
Trump offered no details on the ceasefire negotiations he said Thailand and Cambodia had agreed to hold.
The White House did not immediately respond to questions on the timing and venue for talks and the Thai and Cambodian embassies in Washington also did not immediately respond.
There were clashes early on Saturday, both sides said, in the Thai coastal province of Trat and Cambodia’s Pursat Province, a new front more than 100 km (60 miles) from other conflict points along the long-contested border.
The countries have faced off since the killing of a Cambodian soldier late in May during a brief skirmish. Troops on both sides of the border were reinforced amid a full-blown diplomatic crisis that brought Thailand’s fragile coalition government to the brink of collapse.
As of Saturday, Thailand said seven soldiers and 13 civilians had been killed, while Cambodia said five soldiers and eight civilians had been killed.
Trump’s direct involvement followed U.S. calls for restraint on both sides. He said he spoke to each leader and relayed messages back and forth.
“They have agreed to immediately meet and quickly work out a Ceasefire and, ultimately, PEACE!,” Trump wrote, saying both countries wanted to get back to the “Trading Table.” He has sought to reach separate deals with dozens of countries by August 1 in response to his announcement of wide-ranging tariffs on imports to the U.S.
“When all is done, and Peace is at hand, I look forward to concluding our Trading Agreements with both!” Trump said.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, chair of the ASEAN regional bloc, said he would continue to push a ceasefire proposal. Cambodia has backed Anwar’s plan, while Thailand has said it agreed with it in principle.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tribute to former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, saying that his thoughts continue to motivate the youth to contribute towards building a developed and strong India.
Kalam served as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007.
Known as the ‘Missile Man of India’, Kalam earned widespread admiration for his simple lifestyle and non-partisan conduct, winning the respect of people and political leaders across the spectrum.
Paying rich tributes, PM Modi described Kalam as an “inspiring visionary, outstanding scientist, mentor, and a great patriot.”
“On his death anniversary, paying homage to our beloved former President, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. He is remembered as an inspiring visionary, outstanding scientist, mentor, and a great patriot. His dedication to our nation was exemplary. His thoughts motivate the youth of India to contribute towards building a developed and strong India,” the Prime Minister said on his X handle.
PM Modi has long held Dr. Kalam in high esteem. On his birth anniversary last year, the Prime Minister praised Kalam’s unique accomplishments, noting how rare it is for someone to be regarded as a “Rashtra Ratna” (Jewel of the Nation) even before becoming the President of India.
Dr. Kalam remains one of India’s most respected scientists and national figures, remembered for his humility, commitment, and excellence. He played a key role in advancing India’s missile and defence capabilities, particularly through the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme, which led to the development of the Agni and Prithvi missiles.
He also played a pivotal role in giving India its nuclear capabilities. In 1998, Kalam was one of the chief coordinators of the Pokhran-II nuclear tests, during which five nuclear devices were successfully detonated at a test site in Pokhran, Rajasthan.
Popularly known as the ‘People’s President,’ Kalam was passionate about inspiring youth and children. On July 27, 2015, he collapsed while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management Shillong and was later pronounced dead from cardiac arrest.
BJP National President and Union Minister J.P. Nadda also paid tribute, calling Kalam’s life a remarkable story of struggle and success, and praising his unparalleled contribution to making India a nuclear-powered nation.
“I pay my heartfelt respects to the former President of India, great scientist, Bharat Ratna, and ‘Missile Man’ Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam on his death anniversary. Dr. Kalam’s life is a remarkable saga of struggle and success. He faced numerous obstacles but overcame them with unwavering determination and diligence to reach the highest office of the country. His unmatched contribution to making India a nuclear-powered nation is unforgettable. His thoughts and actions for national upliftment will always inspire us in our service to the nation,” Nadda wrote on X.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also paid homage, saying that Kalam’s life of simplicity, dedication, and patriotism continues to inspire the entire nation.
“Humble tribute to Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, former President of India, ‘Missile Man’, and Bharat Ratna, on his death anniversary. His life, full of simplicity, dedication, and patriotism, is a divine inspiration for the entire nation. His illuminating thoughts in the fields of science, education, and innovation will continue to enlighten us all,” CM Yogi wrote on X.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday extended heartfelt greetings to the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on its 87th Raising Day, praising the force for its crucial contributions to the nation’s security.
Acknowledging the CRPF’s unwavering role in safeguarding the country, PM Modi took to X and wrote, “Raising Day wishes to all CRPF personnel. This force has played a vital role in our security apparatus, especially in challenging aspects relating to internal security.”
The Prime Minister further lauded the dedication and valour of the force, stating, “CRPF personnel have made a mark for their duty, courage and steadfast commitment in the most testing of situations. Their contribution in overcoming humanitarian challenges is also commendable.”
The CRPF began its journey on July 27, 1939, as the Crown Representative Police. It was officially renamed the Central Reserve Police Force on December 28, 1949, following the enactment of the Central Reserve Police Force Act.
This transformation marked a new identity for the force as a central armed police unit under the jurisdiction of the Government of India.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended his greetings to CRPF personnel on the occasion.
In a post on X, he said, “Heartfelt greetings to all CRPF personnel on their Raising Day. Your selfless sacrifices have been the backbone of our nation’s security, and your unwavering courage to end Naxalism is truly commendable.”
“Time and again, you’ve stood fearlessly on the frontlines, standing tall against every adversity with fearless resolve. A proud salute to the martyrs of CRPF, your legacy of valour continues to inspire the nation,” HM Shah added.
The CRPF, in its official message, paid tribute to its personnel and their families.
“On 27th July, we celebrate 86 glorious years of bold courage, supreme sacrifice, and resolute commitment — deeply inscribed in the legacy of the nation’s security and service,” the force said in a post on X.
The inception of the CRPF was significantly influenced by the Madras Resolution passed by the All India Congress Committee in 1936, which underlined the need for a robust internal security mechanism.
This vision took shape under the leadership of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the then Home Minister, who emphasised the necessity of a strong and adaptable force to meet the evolving security demands of independent India.
Notably, the CRPF remains the only paramilitary force in India with six all-women battalions. The first of these, the 88 (M) Battalion, was established in 1986 and is headquartered in Delhi. These battalions reflect the force’s commitment to inclusivity and the evolving role of women in India’s security forces.
U.S. President Donald Trump kept a low profile on his Scottish golf course on Saturday, ahead of meetings with top British and European leaders, as questions swirled at home about his ties to disgraced financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Trump arrived on Friday on a visit that has triggered protests in Scotland, with hundreds lining the streets of the capital Edinburgh waving placards saying: “NOT MY PRESIDENT.”
The U.S. leader told reporters on arrival that he would visit his two golf properties in Scotland – one in Turnberry on the west coast where he is playing on Saturday and the other near Aberdeen on the country’s eastern coast. He is also due to meet British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Scottish leader John Swinney and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, whom he called a “highly respected woman.”
Von der Leyen headed to Scotland on Saturday, ahead of the meeting, with two top U.S. officials flying in from Washington and officials on both sides expressing cautious optimism that a framework trade agreement could be reached.
Trump will meet with von der Leyen at 1530 GMT on Sunday, the White House said.
Frustrated by continued questions about his administration’s handling of investigative files related to Epstein’s criminal charges and his 2019 death in prison, Trump on Friday told reporters to focus on bigger issues and other people.
“You make it a very big thing over something that’s not a big thing,” Trump said. “Don’t talk about Trump. What you should be talking about is the fact that we have the greatest six months in the history of a presidency.”
Trump, normally a master at changing the subject when a topic stings politically, has been unable to shake off persistent unrest from his usually loyal base about Epstein, who died by suicide in prison in 2019.
The U.S. president was spotted on the golf course on Saturday morning, but had no public events on his schedule. Reporters and supporters were kept away by enhanced security.
The White House said Trump was golfing with his son, Eric Trump, and the U.S. ambassador to Britain, Warren Stephens, and his son. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt was also on the course.
White House officials hope some time out of the limelight will allow the Epstein controversy to die down, two sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.
GAZA CONCERNS
Away from the golf course, hundreds of anti-Trump protesters gathered outside the U.S. consulate in Edinburgh, with some holding up placards with images of Trump with Epstein. Others in the crowd held pro-Palestinian signs.
Cat Cutmore, 31, an Edinburgh resident, said she felt compelled to protest Trump’s visit given her deep concerns about the worsening situation in Gaza after 21 months of war and what she sees as the U.S. president’s attacks on democratic principles. She chafed at his warm reception by Scottish and British officials.
“There comes a point where if you roll out the red carpet to somebody who has put citizens of his own country and people who are seeking asylum into prison camps, you’re complicit,” she said.
Janet MacLeod Trotter, another Edinburgh resident and an author of historical fiction, said she was particularly angry that Trump was capitalising on his mother’s name, which she shares.
On the trip, Trump will open a golf course near Aberdeen named after his mother, Mary Anne MacLeod, who was born and raised on a Scottish island before emigrating to the United States.
“We’re just fed up with the way that he’s using political clout to browbeat people around the world … He’s coming here and using that as a gimmick to help his business interests,” Trotter said.
Gabriele Negro, an Italian who works at the University of Edinburgh, said he was there to send a signal that he, like others, did not agree with Trump’s immigration policies and stance on Gaza.
Trump bought the Turnberry property, which includes a hotel and golf course, for $60 million in 2014, in the hope of returning the course to the rotation for the Open Championship, but said his visit was “not about that.”
It has not hosted the event since 2009 amid concerns about the lack of accommodation and infrastructure for an event that draws hundreds of thousands.
n the second and final day of his two-day visit to Tamil Nadu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in major cultural and historical events commemorating the legacy of Chola emperor Rajendra Chola I on Sunday.
Around noon, the Prime Minister will arrive at the renowned Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple in Tiruchirappalli district to attend the grand millennium celebration of the emperor’s maritime expedition. The event coincides with the observance of the Aadi Tiruvathirai Festival.
As part of the ceremony, PM Modi will release a commemorative coin in honour of Rajendra Chola I, paying tribute to one of India’s greatest emperors and his far-reaching naval conquests, which extended the Chola Empire’s influence across Southeast Asia.
Later in the day, the Prime Minister is scheduled to participate in a series of other events in Gangaikonda Cholapuram, marking the millennium of Rajendra Chola’s maritime achievements and reaffirming the Centre’s commitment to preserving and promoting India’s ancient heritage.
PM Modi arrived in Tamil Nadu on Saturday evening after concluding his foreign visits to the United Kingdom and the Maldives.
He landed at Tuticorin Airport at 7:50 p.m., where he was received by Governor R.N. Ravi, Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu, and Union Ministers L. Murugan and Ram Mohan Naidu.
Soon after his arrival, the Prime Minister inaugurated the newly constructed terminal building of Tuticorin Airport, built at a cost of Rs 452 crore. He also laid the foundation stone and inaugurated a range of development projects worth over Rs 4,900 crore. These projects span crucial sectors such as transport, energy, and logistics, reflecting a strong push for infrastructure growth in the state.
Among the major initiatives unveiled were infrastructure projects worth Rs 550 crore in Tuticorin, power transmission works related to the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant, and the electrification of the Madurai–Bodinayakkanur railway line.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation on Sunday through the 124th edition of his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat.
The broadcast will begin at 11:00 a.m. and will be aired on All India Radio, Doordarshan, and various digital platforms.
The programme continues to serve as a direct communication channel between the Prime Minister and citizens, covering a wide range of topics related to society, innovation, and nation-building.
In this edition, PM Modi is expected to share his thoughts on matters of national interest, public welfare, and citizen participation.
As in previous episodes, the content of the programme is based on ideas, suggestions, and stories shared by people from across the country through platforms such as MyGov and the NaMo App.
Over the years, Mann Ki Baat has emerged as a platform for highlighting inspiring grassroots-level efforts and encouraging civic engagement in various developmental and social causes.
Since its inception in October 2014, Mann Ki Baat has been instrumental in raising awareness about key issues such as cleanliness, environmental conservation, digital literacy, and women’s empowerment—often sparking mass movements driven by citizen participation.
The 124th episode is expected to continue this legacy, showcasing the positive efforts of individuals and communities across India.
Meanwhile, BJP National President and Union Minister J.P. Nadda will listen to Mann Ki Baat with party workers at a special gathering in New Delhi. The programme will take place at the C-Block Club in Defence Colony at 10:55 a.m., where Nadda will be joined by local booth-level workers.
The BJP has institutionalised the practice of listening to Mann Ki Baat collectively at the grassroots level, turning it into a regular organisational activity that fosters direct engagement with the Prime Minister’s message.
This tradition has been consistently followed over the years and serves as both a public outreach initiative and a forum for dialogue among workers, reinforcing the party’s commitment to ensuring that the Prime Minister’s vision and communication reach even the smallest organisational units across the country.
ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 27, 2025.
Handala freedom ship loaded with Gaza aid bracing for Israeli forces Asia Pacific Report An activist on board the Handala, a Gaza Freedom Flotilla ship carrying aid to the besieged enclave in a bid to break Israel’s blockade, says the crew are preparing themselves for the possibility of Israeli forces storming the vessel. Jacob Berger, an actor from the US, made the comments to Al Jazeera
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Gunfire continued to be heard along the Thailand-Cambodia border in the early hours of Sunday, the National Broadcasting Services of Thailand reported, citing Thai army sources.
The broadcaster later reported that at 6:40 a.m. local time, Cambodian artillery shells hit a civilian house in Surin province. Heavy weaponry could still be heard sporadically as of 7:00 a.m. local time.
Clashes in the border areas between Cambodia and Thailand began on Thursday, with both sides accusing each other of violating international law.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
An aerial drone photo shows people cycling among plum blossoms in Changxing County, Huzhou City, east China’s Zhejiang Province, March 2, 2025. (Photo by Wu Zheng/Xinhua)
Over eighty years ago, the rolling hills where Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Anhui provinces converge echoed with gunfire as New Fourth Army soldiers repelled Japanese invaders. Today, those same landscapes pulse to a new rhythm: the drumbeat of high-quality development.
In the verdant hills of Guangde City, Anhui, stands the solemn grave of martyr Zheng Dafang. In a local battle in March 1944, Zheng, then a 23-year-old soldier, sacrificed his life while leading a charge against retreating Japanese invaders.
The soil once hallowed by his sacrifice now nurtures an advanced manufacturing cluster the young martyr could never have envisioned in his wildest dreams.
Within the fully automated production facility of Guangde Yatai Automobile Intelligent Braking System Co., Ltd., a smart monitoring platform continuously tracks real-time production metrics while a fleet of over 300 robotic arms operate round-the-clock.
“Our fully automated process enables us to manufacture brake discs with significant advantages in cost-effectiveness and reliability,” said Wu Xinzhong, general manager of Guangde Yatai.
The company’s brake disc output surpassed 10 million units in 2024, accounting for approximately one-tenth of the country’s market share, supplying prominent new energy vehicle manufacturers such as Geely and BYD, according to Wu.
The firm anchors Guangde’s signature automotive ecosystem — a constellation of 77 major parts producers that collectively generated 13.62 billion yuan (about 1.91 billion U.S. dollars) last year.
From assembly lines to heritage trails, a quiet renaissance is unfolding across the tri-province borderlands. Rural and red tourism now surge alongside advanced manufacturing, drawing vitality from revolutionary legacies and pastoral beauty.
In Zhejiang’s Changxing County, summer unveils idyllic countryside vistas where general Su Yu’s troops once garrisoned.
“Weekends are fully booked until September,” said 38-year-old Wang Yunlu, who runs a homestay in Yangfeng Village. “Parents from nearby cities like to bring their kids here to hike the old guerrilla trails, fish the streams, and fall asleep under the same stars the soldiers once watched.”
Between boutique homestays, teahouses and farm-to-table kitchens, the village has re-invented itself as an experience economy. “Our villagers’ per capita disposable income hit 46,000 yuan in 2024,” said Li Yan, party secretary of the Yangfeng village.
Across the provincial border into Jiangsu, the city of Liyang operated as the nerve center for New Fourth Army operations throughout Southern Jiangsu during wartime, directing resistance efforts from its Shuixi village headquarters.
Today, Liyang’s No. 1 Road — winding through densely forested mountains and marked by red, yellow and blue lines — has become one of eastern China’s signature scenic routes.
This 365 km artery links over 220 rural attractions and connects seven neighboring counties, transforming the landscape into a seamless tourism circuit. Viewing decks, campgrounds and cafes dot the road, enriching traveler experiences.
By binding once-isolated hamlets, the route has lifted nearly 100,000 villagers into renewed prosperity. In 2024 Liyang welcomed 30 million visitors and generated nearly 35 billion yuan in tourism revenue.
Better roads and a booming rural-travel market are also giving Liyang entrepreneurs new reasons to return home; to date, 26 returnee projects have secured 5.98 billion yuan in investment.
“Future initiatives will deepen revolutionary heritage engagement through curated thematic routes,” said Liu Li, deputy director of Liyang’s transportation bureau. “We’re transforming historical legacy into dynamic cultural tourism assets and economic catalysts.”
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Cambodia’s State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA) on Saturday prohibited all flights from flying across fighting zones with Thailand, a spokesperson said.
Sinn Chanserey Vutha, who is also the SSCA’s secretary of state, said all airlines had been informed to avoid flying over conflict zones and the scope of prohibition had been expanded to Poipet City, Pailin province and part of Siem Reap province.
“All flights have been instructed to avoid flying over these airspaces, and the planes must not fly lower than 1,200 meters above sea level,” he said in an audio message released to the media.
Vutha said the measures were to ensure flight operations and the safety of the planes and passengers.
He added that as of 10 a.m. local time on July 26, international flights from Phnom Penh to Bangkok and Siem Reap to Bangkok are operating as usual, as planes altered their routes to avoid prohibited airspaces.
Armed clashes between Cambodian and Thai soldiers in border areas broke out on Thursday in Cambodian provinces of Oddar Meanchey and Preah Vihear, and spread to Pursat province on Saturday morning, Cambodian Defense Ministry’s Undersecretary of State and Spokesperson, Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, said in a press briefing. According to Thai media, the border clashes started for the third day on Saturday morning after the Cambodian side opened fire against Thai troops.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Hong Kong recorded about 24 million tourist arrivals between January and June, up 12 percent year-on-year, the Hong Kong Tourism Board announced on Saturday.
In June alone, around 3.48 million arrivals were recorded, up 11 percent, with about 2.61 million visitors coming from the Chinese mainland.
The data showed steady growth in visitor numbers during the first half of the year. Arrivals from the mainland totaled about 17.8 million, up 10 percent compared to the same period last year, while non-mainland visitors amounted to around 5.84 million, representing a 17 percent year-on-year increase.
Among short-haul markets, Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines recorded growth of 25 percent or more. For long-haul markets, visitor arrivals from Australia saw the sharpest growth, rising by 33 percent compared to the same period last year.
To boost summer tourism and spending, the tourism board recently launched a summer-themed campaign, offering over 150 summer rewards and consumption perks to both locals and tourists.
From tomorrow, thousands of additional building products including plasterboard, cladding systems, external doors, and windows will all be easier to use in construction sites across New Zealand, Mr Penk says
Our government is laser focused on economic growth, which drives more jobs and increasing wages. We want to see a construction boom, and this is an important step.
Quality overseas building products have been given the green light for New Zealand construction, ending costly monopolies on a small number of products that are currently used in New Zealand, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says.
“It is 50 per cent more expensive to build a standalone home in New Zealand than in Australia. That is frankly outrageous.
“These changes have the potential to reduce total building costs by thousands of dollars when building a home.
“For example, New Zealand has some of the most expensive plasterboard in the world. Kiwis pay around 38 per cent more than Australia for plasterboard, 47 per cent more than the UK, and 67 per cent more than the US for the same products.
“And 97 per cent of the plasterboard that we must currently use is made by one established company. You may recall that in 2022, when that company ran into difficulty, prices for plasterboard soared and some builders were reported to pay six times the normal amount so they could finish the job.
“That changes tomorrow.
“This Government is pulling every lever it has to drive economic growth and building materials is one of many areas where a good dose of competition might do the trick.
“There are thousands of well-made, high performing products that have been tested against rigorous international standards but have faced barriers for uptake here, purely because they have not been specifically tested against our own standards. From tomorrow it will be much easier to use plasterboard manufactured in New Zealand, Australia, UK, Europe and the United States.
“This Government is serious about lowering the cost of building and helping Kiwis into homes faster.
“Tomorrow we are releasing the first version of the Building Product Specifications document which lists international standards for products like plasterboard, cladding, windows and external doors.
“Later this year additional pathways will go live enabling more high-quality building products to be used including over 200,000 plumbing products through the Australian Watermark scheme.
“This is just the beginning of our work to open the door to more building products, lower the cost of homes and turbo charge the construction sector and there will be more to come.”
Standards and specifications contained in the BPS have been assessed to ensure they are equivalent or better than current requirements and won’t alter the level of performance set by the New Zealand Building Code.
Two other pathways to enable greater use of overseas building products are being developed: endorsements of overseas standards by the Minister of Building and Construction, and recognition of products certified overseas as complying with New Zealand’s Building Code.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
PYONGYANG, July 27 (Xinhua) — North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un visited and laid a wreath at the China-Korea Friendship Monument on Saturday to mark the 72nd anniversary of the DPRK’s victory in the Fatherland Liberation War (Korean War), state media reported Sunday. -0-
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Noel has a history of health and developmental issues, including chronic lung disease, pulmonary edema, and esotropia. He required regular medical appointments and medications, including ophthalmologist and speech therapy appointments, as well as albuterol inhaler medication.
“Cindy, as the primary adult responsible for Noel’s safety and well-being, failed numerous times to meet his health and developmental needs,” said Kecev.
Rodriguez Singh has a history of drug and alcohol abuse, which previously prompted the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services to place her children into foster care at one point.
On March 20, 2023, at the request of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, officers from the Everman Police Department conducted a welfare check on Noel. Rodriguez Singh claimed Noel was not at the residence and that he had been living with his biological father in Mexico since November 2022.
But when the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services contacted Noel’s biological father in Mexico, he said he did not have custody of Noel or any type of relationship with him.
Then, on March 22, 2023—two days after the welfare check—Cindy Rodriguez Singh, along with her husband, Arshdeep Singh, and six children, flew from the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport to Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, India. This is the last confirmed sighting of Rodriguez Singh.
“All airline tickets were purchased within 24 hours of flight departure, and Cindy Rodriguez Singh had unenrolled Noel and his siblings from school,” said Kecev.
Along with the capital murder charge, a federal arrest warrant was issued for Rodriguez Singh on November 2, 2023, for unlawful flight to avoid prosecution. Kecev said it is a team effort among local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies who have been diligently working to locate Noel.
“None of us will ever forget Noel, and we will continue to put forth all our effort to one day find justice for him,” said Kecev. “That will include Cindy Rodriguez Singh being apprehended and returned to the United States so she can answer for her alleged crimes. I believe—and I can speak for the investigative team including the state, local, and federal investigators as a unit—that her arrest will play a significant part in locating Noel’s whereabouts.”
Rodriguez Singh is 40 years old. She was born in Dallas, Texas, and is believed to have ties to India and Mexico. She is between 5’1″ and 5’3″ tall and 120 to 140 pounds, and she has a medium complexion with tattoos on her back, both legs, right arm, right hand, and right calf. She has brown eyes and brown hair. Rodriguez Singh also goes by Cecilia Rodriguez, Cindy Rodriguez, Cindy C. Rodriguez, and Cindy Cecilia Rodriguez.
If you have any information about Rodriguez Singh, please contact your local FBI office, local law enforcement agency, or the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. You can call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or the FBI’s Dallas Field Office at 972-559-5000. Tips can also be submitted digitally at tips.fbi.gov. All information can remain anonymous, and confidentiality is guaranteed.
▲ Taeyong Son, Executive Vice President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics and Frank L. Blaimberger, Vice President of TÜV SÜD, were present at the EU RED certification ceremony.
Samsung Electronics today announced that its latest TVs, monitors and commercial display products have been technically evaluated for compliance with the European Union’s Radio Equipment Directive (RED), including updated cybersecurity requirements that take effect on August 1, 2025.
“With the growing emphasis on security in the industry, we are strengthening security features to stay ahead of this evolving trend,” said Taeyong Son, Executive Vice President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “In addition to this achievement, we are committed to introducing innovations with advanced security and technology globally, thereby reinforcing customer trust in our solutions.”
The EU’s RED, introduced in 2016, establishes essential requirements for the safety, electromagnetic compatibility and efficient spectrum use of radio-equipped products. In 2022, the EU announced expanded cybersecurity rules under the RED to improve protection against network threats, safeguard personal data and reduce the risk of fraud. These new provisions will become mandatory starting August 2025.
The TÜV SÜD assessment covers Samsung’s entire 2024–2025 visual display lineup for the European market, including TVs, monitors, digital signage and Color E-Paper. Samsung is actively extending this compliance process to all applicable product lines as part of its global regulatory readiness strategy.
In fact, this focus on compliance reflects a broader, ongoing commitment to product security across Samsung’s ecosystem. In 2024, the company’s proprietary cryptographic module,
Samsung CryptoCore, earned FIPS 140-3 certification from the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).1 As of 2025, Samsung CryptoCore has been integrated into Tizen OS,2 the operating system powering Samsung Smart TVs, to enhance protection across key product lines including TVs, monitors and digital signage.
In addition, Samsung Smart TVs are equipped with its Samsung Knox security platform, which has earned Common Criteria (CC) certification every year since 2015 — further underscoring Samsung’s leadership in consumer device security.
For more information, visit www.samsung.com.
1 Recognized in the United States, Canada, UK, Germany, France, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand.
2 Tizen OS 9.0.
Troubleshooting is key to uncovering the hidden culprit behind dripping air conditioners.
In the scorching summer, people turn on their air conditioner for comfort. But if they are not maintained properly, this can lead to environmental problems such as dripping water, especially during the evening when most people are home. This not only causes noise but also poses potential health risks.
Investigation-enhancing tool
The Food & Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) has recently introduced new technology using cameras with infrared night-vision function to assist teams in tracking down the source of the dripping during nighttime.
Food & Environmental Hygiene Department Health Inspector Tam Yee-wan describes the challenges inspectors face during nighttime investigations:
“When our team conduct investigations during the night, sometimes we face difficulties due to insufficient lighting or air conditioners being blocked by clothes drying racks. Our new series of infrared night-vision cameras can clearly capture the source of dripping water from high-rise buildings in dark environments, significantly improving the efficiency of nighttime investigations.”
Currently, the FEHD has equipped all its 19 district offices with these devices, capable of detecting the source of dripping water up to 20 floors high. The newly introduced second-generation device can observe such problems up to 40 floors high.
Widespread problem
According to the data from the FEHD, complaints about dripping air conditioners have been on the rise in recent years, increasing from approximately 31,000 cases in 2023 to about 34,000 last year, especially in old urban districts like Sham Shui Po and Yau Tsim Mong.
Yau Tsim Mong District Councillor Ann Au stated that such areas face significant challenges due to ageing buildings and facilities. As there is no communal drainage system for many of these old buildings, wastewater from the air conditioners drips directly onto the streets below, which not only affects environmental hygiene but also causes nuisances to citizens.
City-wide operation
To step up the FEHD’s efforts to address this environmental issue, it has conducted a city-wide operation from May to September.
Assistant Director of Food & Environmental Hygiene (Operations) Wan Chi-shun shared more information on how the operation works.
“We have adopted a multipronged approach, including publicity and education as well as law enforcement. We have also selected 30 black spots of dripping air conditioners in various districts which are affecting citizens who queue up for buses on the streets. Our staff will conduct enforcement actions at these black spots at least once a week at different times of the day.”
He highlighted that such stringent enforcement will be maintained throughout the summer and extra manpower will be deployed to support areas with more black spots.
As of mid-July, the FEHD has issued about 700 nuisance notices in this targeted operation.
Public education
In addition to law enforcement, public education is also important. As such, the FEHD actively collaborates with the Home Affairs Department and district councillors to enhance awareness about the matter through community networks.
Yau Tsim Mong District Councillor Chung Chak-fai stressed that the district council is willing to serve as a bridge, co-ordinating residents, community organisations and the FEHD in tackling the issue.
Industry participation
For private housing estates, the FEHD has been working with property management agents, inviting them to participate in a scheme to assist in handling such complaints. If the property management agents cannot resolve the complaints, the FEHD will intervene by taking up the case for follow-up action.
An average of more than 80 property management agents and over 200 private housing estates participate in the scheme each year. The scheme has successfully handled over 4,000 related complaints in five years.
Property Management Services Authority Chairperson James Wong encourages the industry to actively participate in the scheme as there are clear advantages to having property management agents follow up on these key issues.
“As property management agents thoroughly understand residential facilities, they can identify the issues quickly. Plus, their familiarity with the residents can enhance communication and reduce conflicts.”
Preventive measures
Mr Wong also pointed out that the property management agents should proactively conduct inspections, post notices and promote regular maintenance to prevent leaking air conditioners.
Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
Senator Marshall Joins Fox Business to Discuss President Trump’s First Six Months in Office
Washington – On Friday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), joined Maria Bartiromo on Fox Business’ Mornings with Maria to discuss the historic wins that the Trump Administration has secured in just six months, including tax cuts, a secure border, and multiple trade deals, as well as Democrats’ weaponization of the intelligence community.
Click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full interview.
On President Trump’s First Six Months in Office:
“Well, we’re on Trump time right now. Maria, I think what’s more important is what the American people think. We did three telephone town halls, 5,000 Kansans on those phone calls, and over 80% of them feel our country’s generally going in the right direction.
“Now, by the way, 70% of them think work requirements are good as well. But this is the sort of a new golden era. The border is secure. We’re rolling back regulations. The price of gas and groceries are down. President Trump on these trade deals – major, major wins for all of Americans, but especially rural America, when it comes to agriculture and energy opportunities.”
On Senate Republicans’ work to pass Appropriations bills to avoid shutdown:
“Well, if there’s a is a shutdown, it’s on the back of Chuck Schumer. He’s doing everything he can to sabotage the process. On the other hand, under the leadership of Susan Collins and all these Appropriations Committees, they’ve got their work done.
“The big news here is that, actually, we’re going back to pre-pandemic spending levels, working towards a balanced budget. So we’ve done our work. The appropriations committees are passing those out in twenty-five to one unanimous in some of the twelve buckets you’re talking about.
“So, now we’ll have to bring them to the floor, and we’ll see if Chuck Schumer keeps eight Democrats from voting for those, so we’re doing our work. If anything, if this doesn’t come to fruition, it will be on the back of Chuck Schumer.”
On Democrats’ weaponization of the intelligence community:
“They lied to us about Joe Biden’s mental health. They lied to us about COVID. And of course, they’ve lied to us all things Russia, Russia, Russia.
“I do remember interviewing with you and going back to the FISA court abuse. I think in 2017 you were already covering that. This is the next chapter of that FISA court abuse. And in this case, it’s new evidence with President Obama’s fingerprints all over this.
“He took evidence that his intelligence agency said, look, there was no interference, and now, he’s turned that narrative around and then weaponized his intelligence community to paralyze President Trump’s presidency going forward.
“When I look at a story like this, the first thing I want to know is, what’s their motive? Well, the Democrats clearly had a motive here. They wanted to delegitimize the election, and they wanted to cripple President Trump’s agenda going forward. And to your point, they did just that.
“The next thing I asked, you know, does the story make sense? It makes 100% sense. I’m not a conspiracy theorist, but here we have again, this next chapter of the FISA court abuse. This would absolutely be the next chapter of this. Then, where’s the evidence? Well, here’s the evidence. The smoking gun, this document from the White House, this new document, which Tulsi Gabbard has uncovered, that President Obama literally switched the narrative, saying that Russia interfered with the election. He wanted to delegitimize that election and freeze out President Trump’s agenda and the will [of] the American people, by the way.”
On President Trump’s trade deals and deterring China:
“Well, Maria, I just want to again compliment President Trump and what he’s doing strategically with trade to try to put China in a box. If you think about his trade agreements, he’s done here, put the UK aside, but you mentioned earlier, trade agreements with Japan, all those South Sea countries right now, as well as Indonesia.
“Indonesia is the fourth largest country in the world, and what China is doing is they’re sending those goods to places like Indonesia and Vietnam, and then trying to get into the US on that lower tariff.
“So, President Trump is boxing in China right now, and I think he’s made it very, very clear as far as the fentanyl precursors go, and by the way, because the border secure, there’s less fentanyl coming into the country right now. There’s less crime. There’s less fentanyl poisoning as well.”
The Government is providing more certainty for the building sector by pausing any new major changes to the Building Code system, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk has announced.
“The building sector has faced significant disruption over the past few years in dealing with the pandemic, supply chain challenges and a boom-and-bust cycle that has made the infrastructure pipeline unpredictable,” Mr Penk says.
“Up until now, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has typically conducted ongoing, rolling reviews of different parts of the Building Code.
“It’s time to bring stability and clarity to the system so the sector can confidently plan and move forward with the construction and infrastructure projects we need to build New Zealand into a world-class nation.
“Builders, designers and developers need a clear runway to plan ahead and invest with confidence, and ad hoc changes to Building Code requirements makes that difficult.
“That’s why we’re pausing any further major changes and moving to a predictable three-year cycle for Building Code system updates.
“This new approach will give businesses the clarity they need to prepare in advance, rather than constantly having to react to unexpected rule changes.
“Designers and builders will have more headspace to focus on their important work of building more homes and delivering infrastructure projects that support better public services, instead of constantly reworking plans or second-guessing what might change next.
“The pause applies only to major changes outside the three year cycle. The Government will continue to consider straightforward updates when needed – especially those that protect life safety and meet New Zealand’s trade obligations. Changes to support energy efficiency, the Building Product Specifications and fire safety will continue as planned.
“Supporting a strong and thriving building sector is an important part of driving the economic growth that benefits all Kiwis.
“This Government has already taken steps to improve productivity – including reforms that will allow trusted professionals to consent their own work, improving access to overseas products to lower building costs, and advancing legislation to make building granny flats easier.
“This next step is about giving the sector time, certainty and space to deliver.”
The first regular cycle of Building Code system updates will take place in 2028.
Note to editors:
New Zealand’s Building Code System includes the Building Code (found in regulations made under the Building Act 2004) and a range of technical compliance documents, including Acceptable Solutions and Verification Methods (AS/VMs), and the Building Product Specifications (BPS). The Minister for Building and Construction is responsible for changes to regulations under the Building Act, and the Chief Executive of MBIE is responsible for any changes to technical compliance documents.
Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today visited Huawei Lianqiu Lake R&D Center in Shanghai, China. The visit represented one of the initiatives to advance regional cooperation in the fields of artificial intelligence and digital innovation, and to further strengthen public-private partnership between ASEAN and China.
The post Secretary-General of ASEAN visits Huawei Lianqiu Lake R&D Center in Shanghai appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.