NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Official Taxi Fleet Licences to be issued in July to offer quality taxi services to public (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Transport Department (TD) said today (June 27) that official Taxi Fleet Licences are scheduled to be issued to all five taxi fleets in July to enable the fleets to commence services as soon as possible and showcase the quality services provided by the taxi fleets, such that it can build up public confidence in taxi services and mark an important step to enhance service quality and reform the taxi trade.

    A spokesman for the TD said, “The TD issued provisional grants of the Taxi Fleet Licence to five selected operators in end-July 2024. All five fleets have now commenced trial operations, and have provided a total of nearly 120,000 trips to date. The public’s feedback on the taxi fleet services has been positive. We have, after careful consideration, decided to adopt a flexible licensing approach to provide the public with an early opportunity to experience high-quality taxi fleet services. Taxi fleets are a new mode of operation. Upon the official launch of the fleets, we believe that through a series of promotions, positive feedback from passengers, benefits for fleet drivers, and the gradual evolvement of the trade’s image, more passengers will come to know and use the taxi fleet services. This will, in turn, provide fleet drivers with a more favourable and stable income, which will help attract more taxi drivers to join the fleets and gradually enhance the fleets’ capacity.”

    The spokesman continued that issuing official taxi fleet licenses enables the TD to effectively oversee the operations and services of the fleets in accordance with licence conditions and requirements, thereby achieving the objective of enhancing and ensuring service quality through the introduction of the taxi fleet regime.

    After obtaining the licences, all five fleet operators can officially use about 80 designated taxi fleet stopping places across 13 locations, such as the airport, certain cross-boundary control points and other tourist hotspots to pick up passengers with pre-booked trips. Signage, information plates, and display panels will be erected at these locations. The TD will also distribute leaflets and display posters featuring QR codes for each taxi fleet’s online hailing service to facilitate reservations by the public and tourists. The Government will also promote the taxi fleet services to the public and tourists through various channels, including the TD’s HKeMobility mobile application, and the networks of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the Airport Authority, and the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal.

    Since July last year, the five selected operators have been conducting gearing-up work with great endeavour, including procuring new vehicles and carrying out modifications, installing in-vehicle safety devices, setting up electronic payment systems, developing and testing online hailing applications and providing training to drivers. Each fleet has also implemented different measures to recruit taxi owners and drivers, such as participating in a one-stop taxi fleet drivers thematic job fair, hosting fleet introduction sessions and recruitment events, organising activities to showcase the new taxi models and providing new fleet management approaches to taxi owners, etc.

    The TD has been holding regular meetings with the fleets to actively promote and assist their gearing-up work, while co-ordinating and providing support based on their needs during the preparatory stage. For example, in response to the need of various operators to acquire new models of vehicles for use as fleet taxis, the TD has, on the premise of ensuring road safety, streamlined procedures by introducing batch applications and vehicle examinations, and providing facilitating measures in respect of the vehicle examination arrangements. The TD also opened designated stopping places within the prohibited zones of the two control points on May 30 to facilitate the fleets under trial operation in picking up passengers with pre-booked trips.

    After issuing the official Taxi Fleet Licences, the TD will continue to urge fleet operators to proactively recruit taxi owners and drivers in order to achieve the committed fleet size. The TD will also closely monitor the service performances of the fleets to ensure that the service quality meets the public’s aspirations.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government announces appointments of Chairperson and members to Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation Advisory Board

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Government announces appointments of Chairperson and members to Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation Advisory Board 
    The tenure of the appointments is two years with effect from July 1, 2025.
     
    Commenting on the appointments, the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, said, “I am pleased that Ms Agnes Chan has been appointed as the Chairperson of the HKECIC Advisory Board. I am confident that, with her distinguished role in the business sector and abundant public service experience, Ms Agnes Chan will be able to lead the Advisory Board in tendering pragmatic and constructive advice to the HKECIC, enabling the HKECIC to continue providing professional export credit insurance services to Hong Kong exporters. I would also like to welcome Mr Henry Ko as a new member, and Ms Natalie Chan and Mr Michael Li being reappointed to continue contributing to the work of the Advisory Board.”
     
         “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Dr Dennis Ng for his contributions during his tenure. Under his leadership, the HKECIC has launched various measures to support the export trade in Hong Kong and assist Hong Kong exporters, especially small and medium enterprises, in countering the challenges brought by the uncertainties in the global economy and expanding into emerging markets. I would also like to express my appreciation to the outgoing member Mr Samuel Lau Kin-pui for his staunch support of the work of the Advisory Board,” Mr Yau added.
     
         Ms Agnes Chan is currently the Senior Advisor of the Chairman’s Office, Greater China, Ernst & Young. She is the incumbent Chairman of the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce, an incumbent member of the Public Service Commission and an ex-officio member of the Hong Kong Trade and Development Council.
     
         The HKECIC was established in 1966 to provide insurance protection for Hong Kong exporters against non-payment risks arising from commercial and political incidents. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government guarantees its liabilities.
     
         The composition of the HKECIC Advisory Board with effect from July 1, 2025, is as follows:
     
    Chairperson
    ———–
    Ms Agnes Chan Sui-kuen
     
    Members
    ———–
    Mr Kelvin Au Wai-kuen
    Ms Natalie Chan Wo-mi
    Ms Helen Hui
    Mr Henry Ko Hok-han
    Mr Timothy Lee Kwok-lam
    Mr Michael Li Chi-fung
    Mr Bernie Ting Wai-cheung
    Ms Winnie Wong Chi-shun
    Principal Assistant Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development
    Executive Director, Hong Kong Trade Development Council or his representative (ex-officio)
    Issued at HKT 11:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar urges students to embrace national goals and lead change

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Friday called upon students to adopt a broader vision that serves society, humanity, and the nation, rather than pursuing narrow or self-centered goals. Addressing the 156th Founders’ Day celebration of Sherwood College in Nainital, Uttarakhand, he emphasised the importance of nationalism, quality education, and youth leadership in shaping the future of Viksit Bharat.

    “Don’t have a narrow goal. Don’t have a self-centered goal. Have a goal for the society, for humanity, for the nation,” the Vice President told students, highlighting that only those who give back to society are remembered by history.

    Stressing the importance of unconditional nationalism, Dhankhar said, “We must always put the nation first. Bharat, with over 5,000 years of civilisational depth, deserves nothing less.”

    He described education as the greatest equaliser, calling it a divine gift that ensures equality and justice. Urging parents not to pressure children into chasing wealth or power, he said such stress could stifle the emergence of scientists, thinkers, and leaders.

    Reflecting on Sherwood College’s rich legacy, the Vice President recalled iconic alumni such as Param Vir Chakra awardee Major Som Nath Sharma, Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, and actor Amitabh Bachchan, stating that their achievements form the foundation and responsibility of current students to set new benchmarks.

    On India’s global rise, Dhankhar noted the nation’s exponential economic growth, rapid infrastructure development, and increasing global influence over the past decade. “India is no longer a nation of potential—it is a nation on the rise. Viksit Bharat is not our dream; it is our destination,” he asserted.

    He also urged the youth to harness India’s demographic dividend, with 65% of the population below 35 years, and become agents of change in a fast-transforming world shaped by technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain.

    Highlighting India’s global leadership, he concluded by reminding students of the G20 message India shared with the world: “One Earth, One Family, One Future.”

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Local Cantonese opera elites to present two classic Three Kingdoms operas in July (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Local Cantonese opera elites to present two classic Three Kingdoms operas in July  
         Details of the performances are as follows:

    “Zhou Yu Thrice Humiliated”
    ———————————————————————————————–
    Date and time: July 26 (Saturday), 7.30pm 
    “The Battle at Changbanpo”
    ———————————————————————————————–
    Date and time: July 27 (Sunday), 7.30pm
     
         “The Battle at Changbanpo” was originally devised by Yuen Siu-fai for the reopening of Ko Shan Theatre in 1996. The story recounts Cao Cao’s pursuit of Liu Bei at Changbanpo after defeating Lu Bu, focusing on Zhao Yun’s heroic fest of charging seven times through Cao’s army alone to rescue his master’s infant heir. This time, the production again stars Lee Lung, who originally played Zhao Zilong, alongside Yuen Siu-fai as Liu Bei. A new generation of actors has also been cast, including Alan Tam as Lu Bu and Ng Kwok-wa as Zhang Fei. The play has a cast that covers the full range of role types, with some arias preserved in classic singing style. The performers will showcase the Xiqu art skills of the Southern School and the Northern School, enhanced by live music and powerful rhythms of gongs and drums to deliver the dramatic moments of the play.
     
    　　The two performances will be held at the Auditorium of Sha Tin Town Hall. Lyrics and part of the dialogue are with Chinese and English surtitles. Tickets priced at $180, $280, $380 and $480 are now available at URBTIX (www.urbtix.hk 
    　　The programme will also feature a meet-the-artists session (in Cantonese) to be held at 7.30pm on July 24 (Thursday) at AC2, Level 4, Administration Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre. The speakers include Yuen Siu-fai, Lee Lung and Wan Fai-yin, while Barbara Tang will be the moderator. Admission is free. Since the quotas for online registration are full, those who are interested may wait at the venue’s entrance for a standby quota on the day of the session. Any unclaimed spots will be released 10 minutes after the session begins on a first-come, first-served basis.
     
    　　The CCF, presented by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and organised by the Chinese Culture Promotion Office under the LCSD, aims to promote Chinese culture and enhance the public’s national identity and cultural confidence. It also aims to attract top-notch artists and arts groups from the Mainland and other parts of the world for exchanges in Chinese arts and culture. The CCF 2025 is held from June to September. Through different performing arts programmes in various forms and related extension activities, including selected programmes of the COF, “Tan Dun WE-Festival”, film screenings, exhibitions, as well as community and school activities and more, the festival provides members of the public and visitors with more opportunities to enjoy distinctive programmes that showcase fine traditional Chinese culture, thereby facilitating patriotic education and contributing to the inheritance, transformation and development of traditional Chinese culture in Hong Kong. For more information about programmes and activities of the CCF 2025, please visit     www.ccf.gov.hkIssued at HKT 11:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Zimbabwe records 5,932 AIDS-related deaths in first half of 2025: Health Minister

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Zimbabwe has recorded a rise in AIDS-related deaths in the first half of this year, Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora said on Friday.

    Addressing a media workshop on HIV reporting and stigma reduction in the capital Harare, Mombeshora stated that between January and June 2025, the country recorded 5,932 AIDS-related deaths, up from 5,712 during the same period last year.

    “An increase of 220 deaths is a reminder that our work is not done,” he said, without specifying the main cause behind the rise.

    The minister noted that while Zimbabwe has made significant strides in combating HIV/AIDS — particularly in achieving the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets — the gains remain fragile and are threatened by multiple challenges, including limited resources, stigma, and discrimination.

    “As a nation, we must confront these realities with honesty and resolve. Addressing stigma and discrimination is not only a moral obligation; it is a public health imperative,” he said.

    Zimbabwe is now seeking to transition to full domestic financing for its HIV and AIDS response amid declining external funding, Mombeshora said.

    During this transition, the country is facing difficulties in maintaining outreach staff and ensuring continuity of community-based services, according to a report by Xinhua.

    Operational adjustments are being made to safeguard service delivery, he added, stressing the need for innovation, stronger domestic partnerships, and a resilient, self-sustaining national response to the epidemic.

    According to the World Health Organization (WHO), HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the white blood cells, weakening the body’s defense against infections and diseases. If untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), the most advanced stage of the infection.

    HIV is transmitted through body fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk, and can also be passed from mother to child. It is not spread through casual contact like kissing, hugging, or sharing food.

    The disease can be prevented and managed through antiretroviral therapy (ART). Without treatment, HIV can take years to develop into AIDS.

    IANS

  • Zimbabwe records 5,932 AIDS-related deaths in first half of 2025: Health Minister

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Zimbabwe has recorded a rise in AIDS-related deaths in the first half of this year, Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora said on Friday.

    Addressing a media workshop on HIV reporting and stigma reduction in the capital Harare, Mombeshora stated that between January and June 2025, the country recorded 5,932 AIDS-related deaths, up from 5,712 during the same period last year.

    “An increase of 220 deaths is a reminder that our work is not done,” he said, without specifying the main cause behind the rise.

    The minister noted that while Zimbabwe has made significant strides in combating HIV/AIDS — particularly in achieving the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets — the gains remain fragile and are threatened by multiple challenges, including limited resources, stigma, and discrimination.

    “As a nation, we must confront these realities with honesty and resolve. Addressing stigma and discrimination is not only a moral obligation; it is a public health imperative,” he said.

    Zimbabwe is now seeking to transition to full domestic financing for its HIV and AIDS response amid declining external funding, Mombeshora said.

    During this transition, the country is facing difficulties in maintaining outreach staff and ensuring continuity of community-based services, according to a report by Xinhua.

    Operational adjustments are being made to safeguard service delivery, he added, stressing the need for innovation, stronger domestic partnerships, and a resilient, self-sustaining national response to the epidemic.

    According to the World Health Organization (WHO), HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the white blood cells, weakening the body’s defense against infections and diseases. If untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), the most advanced stage of the infection.

    HIV is transmitted through body fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk, and can also be passed from mother to child. It is not spread through casual contact like kissing, hugging, or sharing food.

    The disease can be prevented and managed through antiretroviral therapy (ART). Without treatment, HIV can take years to develop into AIDS.

    IANS

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appointments to Hong Kong Deposit Protection Board

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Appointments to Hong Kong Deposit Protection Board 
    The Financial Secretary has also appointed Mrs Helen Kan Ng Chau-yuk and Professor Darwin Choi, and reappointed Mr Andrew Mak Yip-shing as members of the Board for the same period.
     
    A Government spokesman said, “The Chairman and members appointed and reappointed possess professional knowledge and experience in the areas of consumer protection, law, finance and academia. We are confident that the Board will continue to maintain a stable and effective Deposit Protection Scheme in Hong Kong under the stewardship of Ms Connie Lau.
     
    “We would also like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the outgoing members, Professor Chan Koon-hung and Professor Matthew Lee Kwok-on, for their invaluable contributions over the past six years.”
     
    The Board is a statutory body established in 2004 under the Deposit Protection Scheme Ordinance. It manages the operation of the Deposit Protection Scheme, which aims to protect depositors and contribute to the stability of the banking system.
     
    The aforesaid appointments under the Deposit Protection Scheme Ordinance were gazetted today.
    Issued at HKT 11:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appointment to Mandatory Provident Fund Industry Schemes Committee

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Appointment to Mandatory Provident Fund Industry Schemes Committee 
    Announcing the above appointment today (June 27), a spokesperson for the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau said, “We are confident that Mr Huang will continue to render valuable and pragmatic advice to the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority (MPFA) in his capacity as an employee representative from the construction sector to further improve the administration and operation of Mandatory Provident Fund industry schemes in the interests of scheme members.”
     
    The latest membership of the MPFISC is as follows:
     
    Chairman
    ———–
    Mr Lam Chun-sing

    Members
    ———-
    Mr Franki Chan Shut-ho
    Mr Samme Cheng Pak-man
    Ms Cherrie Chong Wing-lum
    Mr Jacky Ho Yan-ching
    Mr Huang Yongquan
    Mr Lam Tsin-kwok
    Mr Bob Lee Tak-luen
    Mr Adrian Li Man-kiu
    Mr Daniel Shum Hau-tak
    Mr Howard Tong Ho-wai—————————————————————————
    Mr Cheng Yan-chee, Managing Director
    Issued at HKT 11:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Monsoon alert: IMD predicts heavy rainfall in Saurashtra, Kutch region

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday said that conditions are becoming favourable for the further advance of the Southwest Monsoon over the remaining parts of the country within the next two to three days. The monsoon, which has already covered large parts of India, is now poised to extend its reach across the entire nation, bringing much-needed rainfall to several regions.

    According to the latest forecast, heavy to very heavy rainfall activity is expected to continue across many parts of northwest, central, east, and northeast India over the next seven days. Isolated areas in Saurashtra and Kutch are likely to witness extremely heavy rainfall, exceeding 20 cm in 24 hours, particularly on Friday.

    Several states, including Konkan & Goa, the ghat areas of central Maharashtra, and Gujarat, are expected to receive consistent heavy rain throughout the week. Other regions set to witness intense rainfall include Himachal Pradesh and Punjab on June 29, Haryana on June 29 and 30, Uttarakhand from June 27 to July 1, and east Rajasthan and Vidarbha on June 27.

    The IMD has also predicted heavy rainfall in Uttar Pradesh from June 29 to July 2, Madhya Pradesh on June 27 and from July 1 to 3, Chhattisgarh on July 1 and 2, Gangetic West Bengal on June 29 and 30, Odisha on June 30 and July 1, and Jharkhand on June 29. Kerala will also continue to receive heavy rain on June 27 and 28.

    Weather forecast for Delhi-NCR

    In Delhi-NCR, the weather will remain dynamic over the next four days. On June 27, the skies will be partly cloudy with very light to light rain and thunderstorms expected by the afternoon or evening. Temperatures will hover between 36°C and 38°C, with light southeast winds blowing at less than 15 kmph.

    On June 28, the skies will become generally cloudy, and light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms or lightning is expected in the evening or night. Maximum temperatures will dip slightly to between 35°C and 37°C, while minimum temperatures will range between 26°C and 28°C. Winds from the southeast will gradually increase throughout the day, reaching up to 18 kmph by evening.

    June 29 will continue to see generally cloudy skies and light to moderate showers. Temperatures will be cooler, with maximums expected between 32°C and 34°C, and minimums between 25°C and 27°C. Winds will shift from the west to southwest, picking up speed through the day.

    On June 30, Delhiites can expect a similar pattern with cloudy skies and light to moderate rainfall along with thunderstorm activity. Temperatures will remain between 32°C and 34°C during the day and 25°C to 27°C at night, both below seasonal averages. Winds will be calm in the morning but may pick up slightly from the south by evening.

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Portland Cement and its Clinker from Vietnam Threatens Taiwan Industry, says Taiwan Trade Remedy Commission

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    The Trade Remedy Commission of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) today determined that a Taiwan industry is threatened with material injury by reason of imports of Portland cement and its clinker from Vietnam that the Ministry of Finance has determined are sold in Taiwan (ROC) at less than normal value.

    Under the jurisdiction set forth in the Regulations Governing the Implementation of the Imposition of Countervailing and Anti-dumping Duties, the MOEA shall notify the Ministry of Finance of its final determination. As a result of the affirmative final injury determination, the Ministry of Finance shall determine whether to impose an anti-dumping duty within 10 days from the next day of receipt of the foregoing notice from the MOEA.

    A public version of the final injury investigation report in Chinese will be available after July 27, 2025 on the International Trade Administration’s website (https://www.trade.gov.tw/).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – Africa – 26-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    EU cooperation with African countries and the African Union (AU) is based on two distinct frameworks: namely (a) the Partnership Agreements with the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) states and (b) the Joint Africa-EU strategy.The legal basis for the political, economic and development aspects of the partnership between the EU and the ACP states was established by the Cotonou Agreement in 2000. This was replaced, on 15 November 2023, by the Samoa Agreement, which was negotiated to modernise and upgrade the partnership.The Joint Africa-EU strategy has been implemented through multiannual roadmaps and action plans adopted at each EU-AU summit, which traditionally takes place every three years. At the EU-AU summit held in February 2022 in Brussels, EU and AU leaders agreed on ‘A Joint Vision for 2030’, which aims to consolidate a renewed partnership based on solidarity, security, peace, sustainable development and shared prosperity. The third EU-AU ministerial meeting took place on 21 May 2025, with the participation of the new AU leadership. This meeting reviewed progress on the Joint Vision for 2030, and paved the way for the seventh EU-AU summit, which is set to take place in Africa in 2025, marking 25 years of the partnership since the Cairo summit in 2000.The EU is Africa’s most significant donor of official development assistance. This is mainly funded by the EU’s general budget through the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI) – Global Europe.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI China: SCIO briefing on plans for marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War

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

    中文

    Speakers:

    Mr. Hu Heping, executive deputy director of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee

    Major General Wu Zeke, deputy director of the Leading Group Office of Military Parade and deputy director general of the Operation Bureau of the Joint Staff Department of the Central Military Commission

    Chairperson:

    Ms. Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

    Date:

    June 24, 2025

    Shou Xiaoli:

    Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO). This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. A series of commemorative activities will be held and have drawn widespread public attention across all sectors of society. Today we have invited Mr. Hu Heping, executive deputy director of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, and Major General Wu Zeke, deputy director of the Leading Group Office of Military Parade and deputy director general of the Operation Bureau of the Joint Staff Department of the Central Military Commission, to brief you on plans for the commemorative activities and take your questions.

    Now, I’ll give the floor to Mr. Hu for his introduction.

    Hu Heping:

    Good afternoon. I am very pleased to introduce the plans for marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    Eighty years ago, after 14 years of arduous and heroic struggle, the Chinese people secured a great victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, marking the full triumph in the World Anti-Fascist War. This great victory belonged not only to the Chinese people, but also to the peoples of the world. On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, grand commemorative events will be held to bear history in mind, honor all those who laid down their lives, and carry forward the great spirit of patriotism and resistance against aggression. These efforts carry profound and lasting significance. In March this year, the CPC Central Committee and the State Council issued a special notice, making overall arrangements for the commemorative activities. Now, let me give you a brief overview.

    First, on the morning of Sept. 3, in the name of the CPC Central Committee, the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC), the State Council, the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), and the Central Military Commission, a grand ceremony to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War will be held at Tian’anmen Square in Beijing, including a military parade. General Secretary Xi Jinping will deliver an important speech. At noon on Sept. 3, a reception will be held in Beijing, and General Secretary Xi Jinping will deliver an important speech. On the evening of Sept. 3, a commemorative gala will be held in Beijing, to be attended by Party and state leaders.

    Second, in the name of the CPC Central Committee, the State Council and the Central Military Commission, the “80th Anniversary of the Victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression” commemorative medals will be awarded to surviving veterans, comrades and generals of the war or their surviving family members. Authorities across all regions and relevant departments will organize commemorative visits to honor surviving veterans, comrades and generals of the war, their bereaved families, and the relatives of martyrs.

    Third, on July 7, a ceremony commemorating the 88th anniversary of the beginning of China’s whole-nation resistance war against Japanese aggression will be held at the Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in the name of the CPC Central Committee, the State Council and the Central Military Commission. The event will concurrently inaugurate a themed exhibition titled “For National Liberation and World Peace: Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of Victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.”

    Fourth, around Sept. 3, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, symposiums will be held with compatriots from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, as well as overseas representatives. An international academic conference will also be convened.

    Fifth, on Sept. 18, a bell-tolling and siren ceremony to remember September 18 Incident will be held at the 9.18 Historical Museum in Shenyang, Liaoning province, in the name of the CPC Liaoning provincial committee and the Liaoning provincial government.

    Sixth, around Oct. 25, a gathering will be held to mark the 80th anniversary of Taiwan’s recovery from Japanese occupation. Overseas Chinese will be supported in organizing related commemorative activities locally.

    Seventh, on Dec. 13, a national memorial ceremony for the victims of the Nanjing Massacre will be held at the Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders in Nanjing, in the name of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council.

    Eighth, the fourth batch of national-level anti-Japanese aggression war memorial facilities and sites, and a new list of renowned martyrs and heroic groups from the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression will be officially released. Restoration and preservation efforts will be undertaken to repair and protect war memorial facilities, sites and relics. And a batch of high-quality war-themed exhibitions will be promoted.

    Ninth, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, a series of cultural works and themed publications will be produced and released, while academic research will be intensified with the establishment of priority research projects. In addition, commemorative coins and stamps will also be issued.

    Tenth, local authorities and departments will organize community-based commemorative activities tailored to their specific contexts. Hong Kong and Macao will also organize a series of commemorative activities.

    These events make up the main schedule. The CPC Central Committee has clearly required that all commemorative activities must strictly comply with the Party Central Committee’s eight-point decision on conduct and its rules for implementation, rigorously enforce the Regulations on Practicing Thrift and Opposing Waste in Party and Government Organs, prevent formalism and avoid extravagance, ensuring that the events are both solemnly conducted and pragmatically modest.

    That is all from me. Thank you.

    Shou Xiaoli:

    Now, let’s invite Mr. Wu to give his introduction.

    Wu Zeke:

    Good morning everyone, and welcome all our friends from the media. It’s my pleasure to present the details of the military parade to you all.

    The CPC Central Committee and the Central Military Commission have decided that a grand military parade will be held at Tian’anmen Square in Beijing on Sept. 3. General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee, President of the People’s Republic of China, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission Xi Jinping will inspect the troops at the military parade.

    This parade is an important part of the activities commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. The theme is to commemorate the great victory and promote the great spirit of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. The purpose is to highlight the historical significance of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression as the main theater in the East during the Global War against Fascism and its significant contribution to victory in the World Anti-Fascist War, to underscore the pivotal role of the CPC during the war, to demonstrate China’s firm commitments to safeguarding the fruits of World War II and upholding international fairness and justice, as well as its active efforts in building a community with a shared future for mankind. It also aims to fully demonstrate the firm political awareness and practical actions of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in absolute loyalty to the core leadership of the CPC Central Committee, as well as the excellent conduct through enhancing its political loyalty, the new structure of military strength, new progress in its modernization, and the new achievements in its training under combat conditions. It further demonstrates China’s strong will and capabilities to resolutely safeguard its national sovereignty, security and development interests, and to firmly maintain world peace. All of this is intended to inspire the entire Party, army, and people of all ethnic groups in the country to unite more closely around the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, strive to achieve the centenary goal of building a strong military on schedule, accelerate the building of the PLA into a world-class military, and to strive for the comprehensive promotion of the great cause of building a strong country and national rejuvenation through Chinese modernization.

    The military parade will consist of foot formations, equipment formations and aerial formations. In its overall design, the parade has made well-coordinated arrangements for the participation of units from the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and the People’s Armed Police Force, with each formation and echelon carefully organized. It features three main characteristics: First, it highlights both historical legacy and contemporary features. On the one hand, by showcasing the historical designations, honors and unique spirit of the wartime units, the parade will pay tribute to fallen heroes, honor military merits and carry forward the indomitable spirit of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. It reflects the enduring legacy forged by the sacrifice and blood of heroes, a legacy that remains deeply rooted in the hearts of the Chinese people and continues to inspire the armed forces to resolutely safeguard the nation and national dignity. On the other hand, the parade will highlight the PLA’s new organizational structure, enhanced capabilities and fresh image, showcasing the historic achievements and transformative progress of the military in the new era, as well as its firm strides toward becoming a world-class military. Second, it reflects the distinctive features of various military branches while demonstrating integrated joint operations. The foot formations will focus on presenting the new structure and composition of military branches following reforms, as well as the integration of standing forces, reserve forces and militia. The equipment formations will highlight the latest advances in China’s weapons systems, and the integration of multiple platforms and units will showcase new models of joint command, joint operations and joint support, demonstrating the PLA’s capability for independent innovation in defense technologies. The aerial formations will display the systematic strength and rapidly improving combat capabilities of China’s air-based combat capabilities. Third, the parade will feature both traditional mainstay combat forces and emerging strategic forces. All weapons and equipment on display are domestically developed and currently in service. In addition to showcasing the new generation of conventional weaponry, the parade will also feature emerging forces, including unmanned and intelligent systems, undersea combat units, cyber electronic operations and hypersonic weapons, demonstrating the PLA’s strong capacity to adapt to technological advances, the evolution of warfare and the demands of future battlefields. In addition, the design of the review procedures, the ceremonial atmosphere and the integration of elements commemorating the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression will feature several innovative touches. For example, a joint military band has been formed to perform classic songs popular during the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, as well as military pieces rich in contemporary and combative spirit. These arrangements aim to evoke historical memory, pay tribute to the fallen heroes and experience the powerful, uplifting atmosphere of the parade, creating a solemn and grand commemorative occasion.

    At present, preparations are being carried out in an orderly manner in accordance with the overall plans approved by the CPC Central Committee and the Central Military Commission. The relevant work has received strong support from central Party and government departments as well as the Beijing municipal government. This parade upholds the principle of building the military in a diligent and thrifty manner. It makes full use of existing resources and conditions to maximize efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

    We firmly believe that under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee, the Central Military Commission and General Secretary Xi Jinping, and through the joint efforts of all the officers and soldiers participating in the parade, we will present a grand military parade that promotes the great spirit of resisting aggression, embodies the characteristics of the times and has the demeanor of a major country to both Chinese people and people all over the world. 

    That’s all for my introduction. Thank you.

    Shou Xiaoli:

    Now, the floor is open for questions. Please identify the media outlet you represent before asking your question.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, Kumeu

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Emergency services were called to an address on Coatesville-Riverhead Highway at around 8:20pm to reports of a car crashing into a house.

    Initial indications suggest that four people have serious to critical injuries.

    The Serious Crash Unit has been notified.

    The road is currently closed, motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible, and follow diversions.

    ENDS.

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace activists rebrand NZ bottom trawler “ocean killer” at sea

    Source: Greenpeace

    Greenpeace Aotearoa activists have confronted a bottom trawler on the Chatham Rise, rebranding it “ocean killer”, after bearing witness to it hauling in a net straining with marine life.
    Launching from the Greenpeace vessel Rainbow Warrior, activists came alongside the New Zealand-flagged ship, Talley’s Amaltal Atlantis, on the Chatham Rise on Friday afternoon, and painted the message on its hull with non-toxic paint.
    Speaking from onboard the Rainbow Warrior, Greenpeace Aotearoa spokesperson Juan Parada says:
    “Appalled by the most recent evidence of destruction, people defending the oceans rebranded this Talley’s vessel today to expose the bottom trawling industry for what they are: ocean killers. When Talley’s bottom trawlers drag their heavy trawl nets across the seafloor and over seamounts, they bulldoze everything in their path, including killing precious marine life from coral to fur seals, dolphins and seabirds.”We’ve all seen the shocking footage of bottom trawling in David Attenborough’s film Ocean, and it’s happening right here, right now.”
    “Faced with a fishing industry that profits from trashing the ocean, and a government that condones bottom trawling, we’re proud of the peaceful action taken today to call out this destruction and demand that bottom trawling stop.
    “The Amaltal Atlantis trawls in the waters of Aotearoa, and has previously received permits to trawl in the High Seas of the South Pacific. Their trail of destruction is wide and long-lasting,” says Parada.
    Talley’s vessels have a long history of carrying out bottom trawling destruction. In 2018, the Amaltal Apollo trawled in a protected area on the Lord Howe Rise, in the international waters of the Tasman Sea. The Amaltal Mariner was also convicted of trawling in a marine reserve off Kaikōura in 2019.
    The company also has a documented history of health and safety issues, with multiple injuries and even a fatality reported to WorkSafe.
    In 2022, Greenpeace activists blocked the Amatal Atlantis from leaving Port Nelson for nearly 10 hours.
    The at-sea action comes just weeks after it was revealed a New Zealand vessel dragged up six tonnes of coral in a single trawl on the Chatham Rise, known for being a hotspot for coral life.
    In March, Greenpeace Aotearoa documented swathes of destroyed coral in areas of the Tasman Sea intensively trawled by New Zealand bottom trawlers. The Tasman Sea has been earmarked for one of the first high seas ocean sanctuaries, using the Global Ocean Treaty.
    New Zealand is the only country still bottom trawling in the High Seas of the Tasman.
    Parada says, “As the rest of the world moves towards more comprehensive ocean protection for international waters, New Zealand is standing in the way of progress by continuing to advocate for the bottom trawling industry.”It’s time Talley’s, the trawling industry, and the government listened to the tens of thousands of New Zealanders who want ocean health valued over industry profits.
    “From depleted fish numbers to smashed coral, dead sharks and seabirds, the cost of bottom trawling is too high. To protect the ocean for the future and safeguard the ocean we all love, bottom trawling must stop.”
    In response to the activist’s painting activity, Talley’s responded saying they would seek legal action which “may include the arrest of the Rainbow Warrior.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Japan: Cruel execution a stain on country’s human rights record – Amnesty International

    Source: Amnesty International

     

    In response to today’s execution in Japan of a man convicted of the murder of nine people, Chiara Sangiorgio, Death Penalty Advisor at Amnesty International, said:

     

    “The execution of Takahiro Shiraishi – the first in Japan in nearly three years – is the latest callous attack on the right to life in Japan and a major setback for the country’s human rights record.

     

    “Last year’s acquittal of Hakamada Iwao, formerly the world’s longest-serving death row prisoner, laid bare the unfairness of Japan’s criminal justice system and use of the death penalty and was an ideal opportunity to change course. 

     

    “But instead of moving to reform and ensure full protection of human rights, the government has chosen to resume executions. This is a significant setback to efforts to end the use of the death penalty in Japan.

     

    “As of today, 113 countries worldwide have completely abolished the death penalty in law, and more than 144 have abandoned it in law or practice, yet Japan continues to use this inhuman punishment.

     

    “The secrecy that continues to surround the notification of executions make the use of this punishment in Japan additionally cruel. The Japanese authorities must immediately introduce a moratorium on executions as a first step toward abolishing the death penalty entirely —and commute all death sentences to terms of imprisonment.”

     

     

    Background

     

    According to Japan’s Ministry of Justice, the execution of Takahiro Shiraishi was carried out on 27 June 2025.

    Shiraishi was convicted in 2020 of the killing of nine people in 2017 by Tokyo District Court and sentenced to death.

    This is the first execution under Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who came to power in October 2024, and the first since July 2022.

     

    Executions in Japan are shrouded in secrecy, with prisoners typically given only a few hours’ notice and given no warning at all before their death sentences are carried out. Their families are usually notified about the execution only after it has taken place.

     

    Japan is one of a small group of countries that has carried out executions in recent years. Amnesty International recorded 1,518 executions in 15 countries in 2024 (excluding the thousands believed to have been carried out in China), an increase by 32% from the 1,153 recorded in 2023 largely driven by a spike in three countries in the Middle East – Iran, Iraq and Saudi Arabia.  

     

    On 26 September 2024, a long-awaited ruling was delivered by Shizuoka District Court to acquit Hakamada Iwao, described as the world’s longest-serving death row prisoner.

     

    Amnesty International opposes the death penalty in all cases without exception regardless of the nature or circumstances of the crime, guilt, innocence or other characteristics of the individual, or the method used by the state to carry out the execution.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DH and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region sign co-operation arrangement on construction and management of medicinal plant garden (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Chinese Medicine Regulatory Office (CMRO) of the Department of Health (DH) today (June 27) signed a Co-operation Arrangement with the Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants (Guangxi Garden), a subsidiary organisation of the Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The Co-operation Arrangement aims to promote exchange and collaboration in medicinal plant cultivation techniques and germplasm resource sharing, as well as the promotion of medicinal plants, jointly advancing the modernisation and internationalisation of Chinese medicines.

    The Co-operation Arrangement will enhance collaboration between the Government Chinese Medicines Testing Institute (GCMTI) of the DH and Guangxi Garden in establishing a medicinal plant garden, exchanging medicinal plant germplasm resources, strengthening technical exchanges, and training talent. Guangxi and Hong Kong will leverage their strengths and characteristics in medicinal plants to create synergy and a win-win situation, promoting the all-round, high-quality and high-level development of the traditional Chinese medicine industry in the country. This will also help to inject new momentum into the high-quality development of Chinese medicines.

    The Guangxi Garden was verified by Guinness World Records in 2011 for being the “largest medicinal herb garden” with the most plant varieties and the largest cultivating area. It is also a research institution that specialises in the collection, conservation, research and development of medicinal resources, and has achieved remarkable accomplishments in the conservation and innovative application of Chinese medicines resources.

    The GCMTI is committed to developing a set of internationally recognised reference standards for Chinese medicines and related products. It empowers the industry through technology transfer to strengthen quality control of their products. Moreover, it has long been promoting the development of Chinese medicines in collaboration with institutions on the Mainland to deepen exchanges and co-operation in the field of Chinese medicines testing and reference standards.
    ​
    The permanent premises of the GCMTI will be commissioned in phases starting from the end of this year, which will further advance innovative research in Chinese medicines. An outdoor medicinal plant garden will be featured therein, which will be open to the public, industry and research institutions. The Co-operation Arrangement will allow Hong Kong to tap into the experience of the Mainland, thus enhancing cultivation techniques and enriching the germplasm resources of the medicinal plant garden. With the establishment of the medicinal plant garden, the GCMTI will upstream and extend its research to cover medicinal plants, in addition to research on quality control of Chinese Materia Medica and proprietary Chinese medicines. Furthermore, the medicinal plant garden will become a base for promoting Chinese medicines culture, and fostering Chinese medicines culture in Hong Kong, the Greater Bay Area and the world.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Special traffic and transport arrangements for flag raising ceremonies to celebrate 28th anniversary of establishment of HKSAR

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Special traffic and transport arrangements for flag raising ceremonies to celebrate 28th anniversary of establishment of HKSAR 
    Central and Wan Chai North
    ——————————-(ii) From 0.01am on June 30 to 1pm on July 1(iii) From 7.15am to 8.30am on June 30(iv) From 5.30am to 1pm on July 1Tin Hau
    ———

    (i) From 7am to 8am on June 30(B) Public transport arrangements

    Central and Wan Chai North
    ——————————-
     Tin Hau
    ———
     In anticipation of more traffic in the vicinities of Central, Wan Chai North and Tin Hau, motorists are advised to avoid driving to the affected areas. In case of traffic congestion, they should exercise tolerance and patience, follow the Police’s instructions and be alert to the latest traffic news through the media.
     
    Appropriate traffic signs will be erected to guide motorists. Public transport operators will display notices to inform passengers of the temporary arrangements. Public transport users are advised to pay attention to the arrangements of bus route diversions and relocations of bus stops. The TD and the Police will closely monitor the traffic situation and implement appropriate measures whenever necessary.
     
    For details on the special traffic and transport arrangements, members of the public can visit the TD’s website (www.td.gov.hkIssued at HKT 17:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Daren Sammy raises concerns over TV umpiring after controversial decisions in Barbados Test

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has voiced concerns over the performance of TV umpire Adrian Holdstock during the first Test against Australia in Barbados, following a series of contentious review decisions on Day 2, according to ESPNcricinfo.

    Sammy reportedly met with match referee Javagal Srinath after the day’s play to seek clarification regarding multiple decisions that did not go in the West Indies’ favour. He also expressed his concerns about Holdstock’s officiating during the recent ODI series in England, where the South African umpire served as the TV umpire in two games and stood on the field in another.

    Two key moments on the second day left the West Indies camp frustrated. The first was the dismissal of captain Roston Chase, adjudged LBW to Pat Cummins, despite what West Indies believed was clear evidence of an inside edge. The second was the wicket of Shai Hope, who was caught behind by Alex Carey off Beau Webster. The catch was deemed clean after a review by the third umpire.

    “We are just trying to find some sort of understanding as to what the process is,” Sammy said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

    “We only hope for consistency. That’s all we could ask for. When there is doubt in something, just be consistent across the board,” he added.

    “I have noticed, especially with this particular umpire, it’s something that for me started in England. It’s frustrating. I just ask for consistency in decision-making,” he noted.

    “Yeah, look, you don’t want to get yourself in a situation where you’re wondering about certain umpires. Is there something against this team? But when you see decision after decision, then it raises the question. I know he’s here for the series. You don’t want to go into a Test match having that doubt,” Sammy said.

    “So I want to have that conversation as to the process… so we could all be clear. Because, at the end of the day, you don’t want to be going into a Test match not trusting the umpires. And that’s not what our team is about. We’re just looking for some clarity regarding the decisions,” he explained.

    Asked whether the West Indies would lodge a formal complaint, Sammy replied, “You’ll have to wait and see for that.”

    Speaking on Chase’s dismissal, which came just after lunch and broke a 67-run partnership with Hope, Sammy said, “In our opinion, we saw the ball deviated onto the pad.”

    While Sammy didn’t explicitly dispute the decision on Hope’s dismissal, he referenced a similar incident from the previous day, when a catch taken by Hope to dismiss Travis Head was ruled not to have carried.

    “I’m just saying, judge what you see,” Sammy said.

    “If you see the same thing and one is not out, there is even more doubt on the other one than you give out. Again, I don’t know what he’s seen, but from the images we’ve seen, the decisions are not fair enough for both teams. We’re all human. Mistakes will be made. I just want fairness,” he added.

    Australia also had their share of discontent. In the first over of Day 2, they reviewed an LBW call against Chase, convinced the ball had struck the pad first. While initial replays seemed to support their claim, Holdstock judged there was insufficient evidence to overturn the on-field decision. Fast bowler Mitchell Starc later questioned whether the visuals and audio in the replays were correctly synced.

    “There’s been some interesting ones,” Starc said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

    “Obviously, a couple more have gone against the West Indies than us. One for us (against Chase) looked like there was a gap between the bat and the ball—it cost us 40-odd runs, but then a contentious one to then get the wicket,” he added.

    “As players, you can only ask a question. We don’t use the technology to make that decision. It sort of felt like, or looked like, the Snicko and the images were out of sync to some capacity,” he noted.

    Starc also maintained that Head’s edge to Hope on the opening day looked out to them.

    Sammy, mindful of the protocols surrounding criticism of officials, revealed that he had instructed his players not to comment publicly on the decisions after the game.

    “We know the rules. We know fines go all across the board,” he said.

    “I don’t want them to focus on that. Yes, we’re kind of shooting ourselves in the foot by dropping so many catches, but look at the Test match—[it’s] us against ourselves, some of these decisions—and we’re still in a position to win,” he concluded.

    ANI

  • Daren Sammy raises concerns over TV umpiring after controversial decisions in Barbados Test

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has voiced concerns over the performance of TV umpire Adrian Holdstock during the first Test against Australia in Barbados, following a series of contentious review decisions on Day 2, according to ESPNcricinfo.

    Sammy reportedly met with match referee Javagal Srinath after the day’s play to seek clarification regarding multiple decisions that did not go in the West Indies’ favour. He also expressed his concerns about Holdstock’s officiating during the recent ODI series in England, where the South African umpire served as the TV umpire in two games and stood on the field in another.

    Two key moments on the second day left the West Indies camp frustrated. The first was the dismissal of captain Roston Chase, adjudged LBW to Pat Cummins, despite what West Indies believed was clear evidence of an inside edge. The second was the wicket of Shai Hope, who was caught behind by Alex Carey off Beau Webster. The catch was deemed clean after a review by the third umpire.

    “We are just trying to find some sort of understanding as to what the process is,” Sammy said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

    “We only hope for consistency. That’s all we could ask for. When there is doubt in something, just be consistent across the board,” he added.

    “I have noticed, especially with this particular umpire, it’s something that for me started in England. It’s frustrating. I just ask for consistency in decision-making,” he noted.

    “Yeah, look, you don’t want to get yourself in a situation where you’re wondering about certain umpires. Is there something against this team? But when you see decision after decision, then it raises the question. I know he’s here for the series. You don’t want to go into a Test match having that doubt,” Sammy said.

    “So I want to have that conversation as to the process… so we could all be clear. Because, at the end of the day, you don’t want to be going into a Test match not trusting the umpires. And that’s not what our team is about. We’re just looking for some clarity regarding the decisions,” he explained.

    Asked whether the West Indies would lodge a formal complaint, Sammy replied, “You’ll have to wait and see for that.”

    Speaking on Chase’s dismissal, which came just after lunch and broke a 67-run partnership with Hope, Sammy said, “In our opinion, we saw the ball deviated onto the pad.”

    While Sammy didn’t explicitly dispute the decision on Hope’s dismissal, he referenced a similar incident from the previous day, when a catch taken by Hope to dismiss Travis Head was ruled not to have carried.

    “I’m just saying, judge what you see,” Sammy said.

    “If you see the same thing and one is not out, there is even more doubt on the other one than you give out. Again, I don’t know what he’s seen, but from the images we’ve seen, the decisions are not fair enough for both teams. We’re all human. Mistakes will be made. I just want fairness,” he added.

    Australia also had their share of discontent. In the first over of Day 2, they reviewed an LBW call against Chase, convinced the ball had struck the pad first. While initial replays seemed to support their claim, Holdstock judged there was insufficient evidence to overturn the on-field decision. Fast bowler Mitchell Starc later questioned whether the visuals and audio in the replays were correctly synced.

    “There’s been some interesting ones,” Starc said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

    “Obviously, a couple more have gone against the West Indies than us. One for us (against Chase) looked like there was a gap between the bat and the ball—it cost us 40-odd runs, but then a contentious one to then get the wicket,” he added.

    “As players, you can only ask a question. We don’t use the technology to make that decision. It sort of felt like, or looked like, the Snicko and the images were out of sync to some capacity,” he noted.

    Starc also maintained that Head’s edge to Hope on the opening day looked out to them.

    Sammy, mindful of the protocols surrounding criticism of officials, revealed that he had instructed his players not to comment publicly on the decisions after the game.

    “We know the rules. We know fines go all across the board,” he said.

    “I don’t want them to focus on that. Yes, we’re kind of shooting ourselves in the foot by dropping so many catches, but look at the Test match—[it’s] us against ourselves, some of these decisions—and we’re still in a position to win,” he concluded.

    ANI

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: 1 in 3 Tuvaluans is bidding for a new ‘climate visa’ to Australia – here’s why everyone may ultimately end up applying

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Jane McAdam, Scientia Professor and ARC Laureate Fellow, Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, UNSW Sydney

    Photo by Fiona Goodall/Getty Images for Lumix

    In just four days, one-third of the population of Tuvalu entered a ballot for a new permanent visa to Australia.

    This world-first visa will enable up to 280 Tuvaluans to move permanently to Australia each year, from a current population of about 10,000. The visa is open to anyone who wants to work, study or live in Australia. Unlike other visa schemes for Pacific peoples, a job offer in Australia is not required.

    While the visa itself doesn’t mention climate change, the treaty that created it is framed in the context of the “existential threat posed by climate change”. That’s why when it was announced, I described it as the world’s first bilateral agreement on climate mobility.

    The Australian government, too, has called it “the first agreement of its kind anywhere in the world, providing a pathway for mobility with dignity as climate impacts worsen”.

    The high number of ballot applications may come as a surprise to many, especially given there were multiple concerns within Tuvalu when the treaty was first announced. Even so, some analysts predicted all Tuvaluans would apply eventually, to keep their options open.

    Tuvalu is one of the world’s smallest countries, covering just 26 square kilometres.
    Hao Hsiang Chen, Shutterstock

    Grabbing the chance

    The visa highlights the importance of creating opportunities for people to move in the context of climate change and disasters. The dangers of rising sea levels are clearly apparent, including coastal flooding, storm damage and water supplies. But there is a lot more at play here.

    For many, especially young families, this will be seen as a chance for education and skills training in Australia. Giving people choices about if, when and where they move is empowering and enables them to make informed decisions about their own lives.

    For the government of Tuvalu, the new visa is also about shoring up the economy. Migration is now a structural component of many Pacific countries’ economies.

    The money migrants send back to their home countries to support their families and communities is known as remittances. In 2023, remittances comprised 28% of GDP in Samoa and nearly 42% of GDP in Tonga – the highest in the world. Currently, Tuvalu sits at 3.2%.

    A long time coming

    Well before climate change became an issue of concern, Tuvalu had been lobbying Australia for special visa pathways. Demographic pressures, combined with limited livelihood and educational opportunities, made it a live policy issue throughout the 1980s and ‘90s. In 1984, a review of Australia’s foreign aid program suggested improved migration opportunities for Tuvaluans may be the most useful form of assistance.

    By the early 2000s, the focus had shifted to the existential threats posed by climate change. In 2006, as then-shadow environment minister, Anthony Albanese released a policy discussion paper called Our Drowning Neighbours. It proposed that Australia create Pacific migration pathways as part of a neighbourly response. In 2009, a spokesperson for Penny Wong, then minister for climate change, stated permanent migration might eventually be the only option for some Pacific peoples.

    When combined with other Pacific pathways to Australia and New Zealand, nearly 4% of the population could migrate each year. This is “an extraordinarily high level”, according to one expert. Within a decade, close to 40% of the population could have moved – although some people may return home or go backwards and forwards.

    How will the new arrivals be received?

    The real test of the new visa’s success will be how people are treated when they arrive in Australia.

    Will they be helped to adjust to life here, or will they feel isolated and shut out? Will they be able to find work and training, or will they find themselves in insecure and uncertain circumstances? Will they feel a loss of cultural connection, or will they be able to maintain cultural traditions within the growing Tuvaluan diaspora?

    Ensuring sound and culturally appropriate settlement services are in place will be crucial. These would ideally be co-developed with members of the Tuvaluan community, to “centralise Tuvaluan culture and values, in order to ensure ongoing dialogue and trust”.

    It has been suggested by experts that a “liaison officer with Tuvaluan cultural expertise and language skills could assist in facilitating activities such as post-arrival programs”, for instance.

    Learning from experience

    There are also many important lessons to be learned from the migration of Tuvaluans to New Zealand, to reduce the risk of newcomers experiencing economic and social hardship.

    Ongoing monitoring and refinement of the scheme will also be key. It should involve the Tuvaluan diaspora, communities back in Tuvalu, service providers in Australia, as well as federal, state/territory and local governments.

    By freeing up resources and alleviating stress on what is already a fragile atoll environment, migration may enable some people to remain in Tuvalu for longer, supported by remittances and extended family networks abroad.

    As some experts have suggested, money sent home from overseas could be used to make families less vulnerable to climate change. It might help them buy rainwater tanks or small boats, or improve internet and other communications. Remittances are also beneficial when they are invested in services that lift the level of education of children or boost social capital.

    Australia is offering ‘climate visas’ to 280 residents of Tuvalu (10 News First)

    Delaying a mass exodus

    It is difficult to know when a tipping point might be reached. For instance, some have warned that if too few people remain in Tuvalu, this could constrain development by limiting the availability of labour and skills. A former president of Kiribati, Teburoro Tito, once told me migration was “a double-edged sword”. While it could help people secure employment overseas and remit money, “the local economy, the local setup, also has to have enough skilled people” – otherwise it’s counterproductive.

    With visas capped at 280 a year – and scope to adjust the numbers if concerns arise – we are still a long way from that point. Right now, the new visa provides a safety net to ensure people have choices about how they respond to climate change. With the visa ballot open until July 18, many more people may yet apply.



    Read more:
    Fresh details emerge on Australia’s new climate migration visa for Tuvalu residents. An expert explains

    Jane McAdam receives funding from the Australian Research Council (ARC) and is the Director of the ARC Evacuations Research Hub at the Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, UNSW Sydney.

    – ref. 1 in 3 Tuvaluans is bidding for a new ‘climate visa’ to Australia – here’s why everyone may ultimately end up applying – https://theconversation.com/1-in-3-tuvaluans-is-bidding-for-a-new-climate-visa-to-australia-heres-why-everyone-may-ultimately-end-up-applying-259990

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Joint Summary of the Visit by H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, to the Kingdom of Morocco

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    At the invitation of the Government of the Kingdom of Morocco, H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, undertook an official visit to Morocco, from 24 to 26 June 2025.
     
    The visit underscored the growing cooperation between ASEAN and Morocco since the formalisation of the Sectoral Dialogue Partnership in 2023. It also reflected both sides’ shared commitment to further strengthening cooperation on promoting trade and investment, digital transformation, sustainable development, and people-to-people exchanges, among others.
     
    While in Rabat, the Secretary-General held meetings with H.E. Nasser Bourita, Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, H.E. Ryad Mezzour, Minister of Industry and Trade, H.E. Mohamed Saad Berrada, Minister of National Education, Pre-school Learning and Sports, H.E. Mohammed Mehdi Bensaid, Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, H.E. Abdeltif Loudyi, Minister Delegate to the Head of Government in Charge of the Administration of National Defense, and Mr. Redouane Arrach, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development, Water and Forests. The discussions touched on the deepening of ASEAN-Morocco relations, trade and investment, regional and global developments, and the importance of ASEAN as a regional consensus builder and its stabilising role in the Indo-Pacific region. The Meetings also emphasised the importance of upholding and strengthening the ASEAN Centrality, rules-based international order and the importance of practical cooperation pursued through the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP).
     
    The Secretary-General also delivered a lecture at the Moroccan Institute of Training, Research and Diplomatic Studies in Rabat where he exchanged views with a range of stakeholders on peace, diplomacy, and regional security issues. In Casablanca, the Secretary-General met with Mr. Said Ibrahimi, CEO of Casablanca Finance City (CFC), and engaged with representatives of the Moroccan General Confederation of Enterprises (CGEM), led by General Vice-President of CGEM, Mr. Mehdi Tazi.
     
    The visit of the Secretary-General of ASEAN to Morocco and his delegation demonstrated the scope and depth of ASEAN-Morocco relations and cooperation over the past years and reaffirmed both sides’ mutual commitment to further strengthening the partnership. ASEAN and Morocco look forward to advancing the implementation of the ASEAN-Morocco Practical Cooperation Areas (2024-2028) which will serve as a framework for tangible cooperation in the years ahead.
    The post Joint Summary of the Visit by H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, to the Kingdom of Morocco appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: AI Airlock, CERSIs and a new global AI network for health regulators

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    AI Airlock, CERSIs and a new global AI network for health regulators

    Med Tech Regs blog, June 2025: A focus on Software and AI.

    Marinos Ioannides, Head of Software and AI Medical Devices, at the London Healthcare Innovation Forum earlier this year.

    Marinos Ioannides, Head of Software and AI Medical Devices:

    If you’re anything like me, Summer in Britain is a season of transformation and hope. Gone are the frozen, damp morning dog walks in darkness. Coats and jackets are locked away, half-empty half-forgotten tubes of sun cream emerge from deep cupboards, radiators are joyfully turned off.

    The same feeling suffuses the Software and AI team here at the MHRA. Our recent AI Airlock webinar and this week’s opening of our new call for applications boldly announces a new year of inspiration, exploration and progress in innovative regulation. Building on the successes of last year’s excellent pilot programme, we’re eager to unlock and expand insights with industry and see first hand how innovative products and teams can help identify regulatory challenges in the Software as Medical Devices space.

    The Centres of Excellence for Regulatory Science and Innovation (CERSIs) are further enhancing MHRA delivery. RADIANT announced their Innovator Support Programme, giving companies the opportunity to trial open-source tools, educational materials and workshops to demystify regulations and make sure that regulatory complexity does not stand between patients and life-changing technologies.

    For clarity, the two programmes deliver subtly different changes “behind the scenes” here at MHRA. The direct engagement MHRA has with members of the AI Airlock allows the findings to inform our foundational thinking for the regulation of Software and AI Medical Devices. The information and detail delivered by RADIANT is downstream of this – augmenting what tools, educational material and guidance is provided to help innovators navigate the broader regulatory landscape.

    Not to be outdone, CERSI-AI have also ramped up their productivity, coordinating key meetings between academics, clinicians and MHRA to unpick the nuances of AI regulation, now and in the future. With a clear path to sustainability and deliverables already being met, both CERSIs continue to improve and inform this rapidly developing space.

    This is part of a broader perspective at MHRA – that innovation and patient safety are not in opposition. Rather, innovation, driven by competition, delivers better products which make patients safer. Demands for patient safety, through clear documentation and proportionate regulation that provides a level playing field and secure, protective framework, create a more transparent market ensuring innovative products excel.

    In the spirit of Summer, our work alongside Health AI presents a real growth opportunity. This week we were proud to announce that we became the first country in the world to join Health AI’s new global network of health regulators focussed on the safe and effective use of AI in healthcare. As a founding pioneer nation, we will work with regulators around the world to share early warnings on safety, monitor how AI tools perform in practice, and shape international standards together – helping make AI in healthcare safer and more effective for patients around the world.

    Our work in the Digital Mental Health space continues to bear fruit. As we progress and deliver key, actionable insights through our specific guidance, we continue our engagement with experts to direct and augment our publications. If you’re attending the Royal College of Psychiatrists International Conference in Newport this week, you’ll see MHRA representatives there, eager to hear how we can enhance our work to deliver useful insights in this essential HealthTech space.

    Just as no good summer holiday is possible without a translation phrasebook, we will shortly be publishing our Good Machine Learning Practice (GMLP) guidance to ease translation between regulatory frameworks. By transparently outlining our logic, we hope that industry, users and other regulators will be reassured of our alignment with international principles in this emergent space and get insights into our thinking and processes. As we refine this piece of keystone guidance, we also continue to progress our CyberSecurity and AI development and deployment guidance and we look forward to publishing that soon.

    Beyond software, the innovative devices team moves from success to success with a clear, tangible deliverable from our accelerated Innovative Devices Access Pathway (IDAP). Revolutionary technologies like HistoSonics’ ultrasound device, which breaks up tumours without surgery or radiation, is the sort of thing once considered science fiction. Yet, thanks to the excellent work of IDAP partners and MHRA colleagues, patients now have access to a game changing treatment for liver cancer – an example of smart, agile regulation in action.

    And, of course, no Summer would be complete without London Tech Week. It’s a genuine pleasure to see the wonders that innovators continue to create. The opportunity to exchange ideas, debate economics and regulations, and get hands-on experiences with new developments is a real privilege. Presenting our regulatory strategy alongside leaders like David Lawson from the Department of Health and Social Care and Richard Phillips from the Association of British HealthTech Industries at Australia House was an opportunity only surpassed by a chance to see the Lord Mayor of the City of London in the flesh – bedecked with full ceremonial chain and garb!

    Whether you’re out in a park turning red while trying to get a year’s supply of Vitamin D, or gritting your teeth as your laptop overheats, don’t curse the season of the sun. The MHRA are here learning, innovating and applying international best practices to maximise patient safety today and tomorrow, whatever the weather!

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK boosts Women, Peace and Security in Philippines and Indonesia

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    World news story

    UK boosts Women, Peace and Security in Philippines and Indonesia

    The UK is supporting academic collaboration to advance the Women, Peace and Security agenda across Southeast Asia.

    Through its Indo-Pacific Governance Fund and in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the UK is supporting academic collaboration between Mindanao State University (MSU) – Maguindanao and Indonesian universities to advance the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda across Southeast Asia.

    A Philippine delegation including representatives from MSU – Maguindanao, Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity – Centre for Excellence on WPS, the Philippine Centre for Islam and Democracy (PCID), the Bangsamoro Women Commission, the Ministry of Public Order and Safety, and the Development Academy of the Bangsamoro recently participated in a four-day international learning exchange in Yogyakarta. The programme featured panel discussions and immersive activities that fostered regional dialogue and co-developed WPS strategies informed by the Philippine and Indonesian experiences.

    MSU – Maguindanao Chancellor Dr. Bai Hejira Nefertiti M. Limbona said:

    These learning exchanges spark the curiosity that drives meaningful research and action – exactly what we need to not only mainstream the WPS agenda, but to truly transform the challenging situations facing our women, communities and families.

    The exchange concluded with the signing of Memoranda of Understanding between MSU – Maguindanao and three Indonesian universities: Gadjah Mada University, Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta and Ahmad Dahlan University. The MOU aims to strengthen cooperation on gender education, research, and community engagement.

    Prof. Dr. Wening Udasmoro of Universitas Gadjah Mada stated:

    The purpose of this MOU is to establish a partnership between our universities – based on the principles of mutual equality and reciprocal benefit. We have many similarities in our diversity and there are several areas we can work on together.

    This initiative builds upon the success of MSU – Maguindanao’s Diploma Course on WPS, the first of its kind in Asia. This was launched in 2024 with support from the British Embassy Manila, UNDP and PCID.

    The partnerships will contribute to the development of new teaching modules, collaborative research, and regional coordination on shared peace and gender challenges, including violent extremism and climate insecurity. 

    Nazra Abdi of the British Embassy Manila emphasised the UK’s commitment to support pioneering efforts in advancing the WPS agenda. She stated:

    The UK recognises the profound impact of women in peacebuilding, and this initiative underscores our ongoing support to institutionalising WPS across governance, civil society and education in Southeast Asia.

    As Southeast Asia prepares to mark the 25th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 and the Philippines looks ahead to its ASEAN Chairpersonship in 2026, the initiative underscores the UK’s long-term support for gender-responsive peacebuilding across the region.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • From innovation to inclusion: India celebrates MSME Day with a focus on sustainability

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    MSME Day, observed on June 27, honours the vital role that Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises play in driving innovation, employment, and inclusive economic growth. From local artisans to emerging tech startups, MSMEs are the backbone of resilient economies. This day highlights their achievements and challenges, while underscoring the critical need for policy support, financial inclusion, and digital transformation to help them thrive in an increasingly competitive world.

    Designated by the United Nations in 2017, the day serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting and empowering small businesses as engines of resilience and development—particularly in a post-pandemic, digitally evolving world.

    Globally, MSMEs account for 90% of all businesses, contribute 60–70% of employment, and generate half of the world’s GDP, according to UN estimates. In India, the sector holds even greater relevance—contributing nearly 30% to GDP, 45% of exports, and ranking second only to agriculture in employment generation.

    This year, the Ministry of MSME is celebrating ‘Udyami Bharat – MSME Day.’ The theme for 2025 focuses on “Enhancing the role of MSMEs as drivers of Sustainable Growth and Innovation.”

    Key government schemes

    The Ministry reported that India is home to over 6.3 crore MSMEs, spanning manufacturing, trade, and services. Several flagship initiatives are underway to support the sector’s growth.

    PM Vishwakarma, launched in September 2023 with an outlay of ₹13,000 crore, aims to enhance the skills and market access of traditional artisans and craftspeople. As of June 26, 2025, more than 2.71 crore applications had been submitted under the scheme, with nearly 30 lakh beneficiaries registered.

    The Udyam Registration Portal, introduced in July 2020, provides free, paperless registration for MSMEs. To extend formal benefits to informal businesses, the Udyam Assist Platform was launched in January 2023.

    Job creation and credit access

    The Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), a credit-linked subsidy scheme, continues to promote self-employment by supporting the setup of micro-enterprises. Since its launch in 2008, it has aided more than 9.87 lakh units, generating over 80 lakh jobs with subsidies exceeding ₹26,000 crore. In FY 2024-25 alone, 58,028 new units were set up, creating employment for over 4.6 lakh people.

    Support for traditional industries

    The Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI), which clusters artisans for competitiveness and sustainable income, has approved 513 clusters, of which 376 are functional. In 2023-24, 18 new clusters benefited nearly 12,000 artisans across 11 states.

    The Khadi and Village Industries sector has also seen rapid expansion. Sales have grown from ₹33,135 crore in 2014-15 to ₹1.55 lakh crore in 2023-24. Production has tripled in the same period, reaching over ₹1.08 lakh crore last fiscal.

    Boosting public procurement

    To enhance market access, the Public Procurement Policy mandates that 25 per cent of procurement by Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) be sourced from MSEs, including 4 per cent from SC/ST-owned and 3 per cent from women-owned businesses. In FY 2024-25 (as on December 5), CPSEs and departments procured goods worth ₹37,190 crore from 1.15 lakh MSEs—well above the target.

    Global outreach and partnerships

    The Ministry also focused on strengthening international partnerships. In 2024, India signed MoUs with Japan, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Egypt, and the US to support MSME development, training, and technology exchange. Key engagements included a Joint Working Group with Japan, collaboration with the US EXIM Bank, and a partnership with Taiwan’s ITRI.

    New initiatives and digital campaigns

    A series of 2024 campaigns and programmes targeted MSME digitisation and inclusion. The Special Campaign 4.0 in October cleared backlogs, freed up 43,342 sq ft of space, and generated ₹21.84 lakh through disposal of obsolete materials.

    The MSME-TEAM Scheme, launched on June 27, 2024, has an outlay of ₹277 crore to support five lakh micro and small enterprises, half of them led by women, with digital onboarding, logistics, and packaging support.

    The Yashasvini Campaign, also launched this June, aims to formalise and support women-led enterprises in partnership with NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Rural Development.

    The MSME Hackathon 4.0, launched in September 2024, is providing funding of up to ₹15 lakh to 500 young innovators. Additionally, the new Centre for Rural Enterprise Acceleration through Technology (CREATE) was inaugurated in Leh to support enterprise in the Himalayan region.

    MSMEs are transforming India’s growth by driving innovation, creating jobs, and empowering local communities—especially in rural and semi-urban areas. With policy support, digital tools, and new market access, they are key to sustainable, inclusive development.

    MSME Day is not just a celebration; it’s a reflection of how small businesses are shaping a self-reliant and future-ready India.

  • UN Charter is not a-la-carte menu: Guterres

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called out the selective application of the UN Charter, saying it is not an a-la-carte menu.

    “Today, we see assaults on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter like never before: the threat or use of force against sovereign nations; the violation of international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law; the targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure; the weaponization of food and water; the erosion of human rights,” he told a UN General Assembly event to mark the 80th anniversary of the signing of the UN Charter.

    “On and on, we see an all-too-familiar pattern: follow when the charter suits, ignore when it does not,” he said. “The Charter of the United Nations is not optional. It is not an a-la-carte menu. It is the bedrock of international relations. We cannot and must not normalize violations of its most basic principles.”

    The UN Charter is a declaration of hope – and the foundation of international cooperation for a better world,” said Guterres.

    “The charter has given us the tools to change destinies, save lives, and deliver hope to the most desperate corners of the world. And we can draw a direct line from the creation of the United Nations and the prevention of a third world war,” he added.

    Upholding the purposes and principles of the UN Charter is a never-ending mission, said Guterres, stressing the need more than ever to respect and re-commit to international law – in words and deeds, Xinhua news agency reported.

    “On this anniversary, I urge all member states to live up to the spirit and letter of the charter, to the responsibilities it demands, and to the future it summons us to build — for peace, for justice, for progress, for we the peoples,” he said.

    The UN Charter, the foundational treaty of the world body, was adopted on June 25, 1945, at the San Francisco Conference and was signed by delegates the following day.

    (IANS)

  • Trump accuses Democrats of leaking intelligence report on Iran strikes

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    US President Donald Trump accused the Democratic Party of leaking a classified intelligence report that contradicts his administration’s claims that recent US airstrikes had “completely and totally obliterated” Iran’s nuclear enrichment facilities.

    “The Democrats are the ones who leaked the information on the PERFECT FLIGHT to the Nuclear Sites in Iran. They should be prosecuted!,” Trump said on Truth Social on Friday.

    The accusation followed after the report by the US Defence Intelligence Agency disclosed by two American media outlets CNN and New York Times mentioned that strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities have delayed the nuclear programme only by a few months, while much of Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium was moved before the strikes.

    Trump on Wednesday took to his social media slamming both media outlets for leaking the information.

    “Fake news CNN, together with the failing New York Times, have teamed up in an attempt to demean one of the most successful military strikes in history. The nuclear sites in Iran are completely destroyed! Both the Times and CNN are getting slammed by the public,” Trump said on Truth Social.

    Meanwhile, addressing a press briefing on Thursday White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said those who leaked the preliminary assessment on the US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities “need to be held accountable for that crime.”

    “This administration wants to ensure that classified intelligence is not ending up in irresponsible hands and that people who have the privilege of viewing this top secret classified information are being responsible with it,” said Leavitt.

    “Clearly, someone who had their hands on this, and it was a very few people, very few people in our government who saw this report. That person was irresponsible with it. And we need to get to the bottom of it. And we need to strengthen that process to protect our national security and protect the American public,” she added.

    CIA Director John Ratcliffe asserted that the agency had gathered “a body of credible evidence” suggesting that Iran’s nuclear infrastructure suffered extensive damage in recent US airstrikes, reinforcing the White House’s narrative that Tehran’s atomic ambitions have been drastically curtailed.

    Ratcliffe, without divulging specifics, stated on Wednesday (local time), stating that the intelligence came from “a historically reliable source/method” and indicated that “several key Iranian nuclear facilities were destroyed and would have to be rebuilt over the course of years.”

    While Ratcliffe did not clarify whether his remarks represented a formal agency assessment or his personal interpretation of the data, the statement underscored the intelligence community’s ongoing review of the impact of Saturday’s coordinated US strikes on Iran’s Natanz, Fordow, and Esfahan sites.

    The CIA’s remarks came as a counterpoint to an earlier preliminary analysis by the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), which suggested that the airstrikes had not completely destroyed crucial components of Iran’s nuclear program.

    (IANS)

     

  • Iran says no agreement made to resume US talks

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Thursday said that no arrangement or commitment has been made to resume negotiations with the United States, amid escalating tensions following recent attacks by Israel and the U.S. on Iranian territory.

    In an interview with state broadcaster IRIB, Araghchi said the possibility of restarting talks remains under consideration, but any decision would be guided strictly by Iran’s national interests, Xinhua News Agency reported.

    “Our decisions will be based solely on Iran’s interests,” Araghchi emphasized. “If our interests require a return to negotiations, we will consider it. But at this stage, no agreement or promise has been made, and no talks have taken place.”

    Araghchi accused Washington of betraying Iran during previous efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal and lift U.S. sanctions, further deepening mistrust between the two nations.

    He also confirmed that a law suspending Iran’s cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has now become legally binding, following approval by both the Iranian Parliament and the Guardian Council, the country’s top constitutional oversight body.

    “The law is now obligatory and will be implemented. Our cooperation with the IAEA will take a new shape,” he said, without elaborating on what form that cooperation might take moving forward.

    Addressing the aftermath of the recent conflict with Israel, Araghchi described the 12-day war as having caused “serious” damage, noting that experts from the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran are currently conducting a thorough assessment. He added that the possibility of demanding reparations is high on the government’s agenda.

    The conflict began on June 13, when Israel launched airstrikes targeting multiple locations across Iran, including military and nuclear facilities. The attacks resulted in the deaths of several senior commanders, nuclear scientists, and civilians, and came just days before Iran and the U.S. were expected to resume indirect nuclear negotiations in Muscat, Oman, on June 15.

    In retaliation, Iran launched waves of missile and drone strikes on Israel, inflicting casualties and significant damage.

    The conflict further escalated when, on Saturday, the U.S. Air Force struck three key Iranian nuclear sites. Iran responded on Monday by firing missiles at the U.S. Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.

    The 12-day conflict concluded with a ceasefire between Iran and Israel on Tuesday, though tensions in the region remain high.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • Iran’s three key nuclear sites significantly damaged in 12-day operation: IDF

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Friday announced that its 12-day military operation against Iran resulted in significant damage to three of the country’s main nuclear facilities, Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, dealing a major blow to the Iranian regime’s nuclear infrastructure.

    The IDF asserted that Israel launched ‘Operation Rising Lion’ on June 13 intending to damage the Iranian nuclear and missile projects following the identification of progress in the three programmes whose ultimate goal was to “destroy the State of Israel”.

    According to the Israeli military, to thwart the future of the program, 11 senior nuclear scientists who were central knowledge centres in the Iranian weapons group were eliminated, and the inactive nuclear reactor at Arak was also attacked to prevent its future use.

    “The key building blocks of the missile manufacturing industry were attacked. More than 35 sites were attacked, 200 launchers and 50 per cent of all the Iranian regime’s launchers were completely destroyed. In total, more than 1,500 components, 15 enemy aircraft, more than 90 targets 80 surface-to-air missile launchers and 6 airfields were attacked. Hundreds of Iranian military forces were eliminated, dozens of commanders were attacked and more than 30 senior members of the Iranian regime’s security apparatus were thwarted,” read a statement issued by the IDF.

    The IDF noted that throughout the operation it created increasing achievement and complete freedom of aerial action in the heart of Iran and fully met the objectives defined for the operation.

    “Throughout the entire operation, high-quality and accurate intelligence, along with operational, technological and aerial capabilities, were evident. And alongside the entire offensive effort, the defence systems operated day and night,” the IDF stated.

    Furthermore, the Israeli military mentioned that creating air superiority in Iranian skies, “the Israeli Air Force carried out 1,500 sorties and about 600 refuellings were made en route to Iran.”

    “In the entire operation, 1,400 strikes were carried out by the fighter formation and 500 by the UAV formation, and the furthest of them was carried out at Mashhad airport, about 2,400 km from Israel, by a fighter jet. In addition, hundreds of interceptions of anti-aircraft missiles and drones were carried out. In total, 99per cent of the drones launched from Iran were intercepted,” said the IDF.

    The Israeli military noted that during the 12-day operation, the Home Front Command, rescue and recovery forces operated in more than 170 locations across the country.

    Earlier on Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that Israel has accepted a ceasefire proposal with Iran, marking the end of 12 days of intense hostilities between the two regional rivals.

    In an official statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office, Netanyahu declared that Israel had met all strategic goals of its military campaign, dubbed Operation Rising Lion, and even exceeded expectations.

    “Israel had achieved all the objectives of Operation Rising Lion, and even far beyond that. Israel has removed a dual immediate existential threat – both in the nuclear domain and in the ballistic missile domain,” the statement read.

    (IANS)

     

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Public urged to report flooding

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Attention duty announcers, radio and TV stations:

    Please broadcast the following as soon as possible and repeat it at suitable intervals:

    Members of the public are advised to report any street flooding that comes to their notice to the Drainage Services Department by calling the 24-hour drainage hotline on 2300 1110.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Employers, contractors and employees should be aware of electrical safety at work during rainstorm

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         As the rainstorm warning has been issued by the Hong Kong Observatory, the Labour Department (LD) reminds employers and contractors that they should adopt necessary work arrangements and take suitable safety measures to protect the safety of their employees when they are carrying out electrical work or handling electrical plant.

         A spokesman for the LD said today (June 26) that employers and contractors should avoid assigning employees to carry out electrical work (like electric arc welding work) or handle electrical plant at places affected by rainstorms, and should refer to the “Code of Practice in Times of Adverse Weather and ‘Extreme Conditions’” and the “Guide on Safety at Work in times of Inclement Weather” issued by the LD.

         Even if electrical work is carried out or electrical plant is handled at places not affected by the rainstorm, suitable safety measures must still be adopted to prevent electric shock as the air would be more humid. Such measures include:

    (i) Ensure that all live parts of an electrical installation are isolated from the power supply source and rendered dead, and the isolation from the power supply source must be maintained as long as electrical work is being carried out;

    (ii) Before carrying out any electrical work or handling any electrical plant, cut off and lock out the power supply source, then test the circuit concerned to confirm it is dead and display suitable warning notices, and issue a work permit thereafter;

    (iii) Ensure that protective devices (such as suitable and adequate fuses and circuit breakers) for the electrical installations or electrical plant have been installed and maintained in good working order, and portable electric tools must be double-insulated or properly earthed;

    (iv) Provide suitable personal protective equipment such as insulating gloves and insulating mats for employees; and

    (v) If live electrical work is unavoidable, a comprehensive risk assessment should be conducted by a competent person and the appropriate safety precautions should be taken to remove or properly control the electrical hazards involved before such work can proceed.

         In addition, employees should co-operate with the employer or contractor to follow the safety instructions and use the safety equipment provided.

         The LD has published guidebooks and leaflets on electrical work safety. These safety publications are available free from divisional offices of the department or can be downloaded from its website (www.labour.gov.hk/eng/public/content2_8.htm).

         Should there be any questions about occupational safety and health matters, please contact the Occupational Safety Officer of the LD at 2559 2297.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –