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Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: As Trump Administration Continues To Gut Education Department, Warren Exposes Harmful Impact to Students with Disabilities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    July 25, 2025
    According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 60,000 public schools and about 30 million K-12 students were left without a dedicated civil rights investigator due to Trump’s cuts at ED.
    Warren: “It’s disgraceful that Secretary McMahon is firing the people responsible for protecting our students with disabilities.”
    Video of Exchange (YouTube)
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), in a forum held by Senator Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), “Robbing Our Students’ Futures: The Indefensible Attacks on Public Education,” highlighted the consequences of President Donald Trump and Secretary Linda McMahon’s cuts to the Department of Education (ED) for students with disabilities and their families.
    “It’s disgraceful that Secretary McMahon is firing the people responsible for protecting our students with disabilities,” said Senator Warren. “This forum is a valuable opportunity to speak out and stand up against these horrible cuts so we can start building a better future for our nation’s children.”
    In the hearing, Senator Warren slammed Secretary McMahon for her broken promise to “make sure that our students with special needs are taken care of.” In March, Secretary McMahon fired half of the staff at ED’s Office of Civil Rights (OCR), which is responsible for protecting students facing discrimination in school, and closed down 7 out of OCR’s 12 regional offices, including the one in Boston. Nearly half of all OCR complaints involve discrimination against students with disabilities, and following these cuts, OCR has begun dismissing complaints at an unusually high rate.
    Dr. Jacqueline Rodriguez, CEO of the National Center for Learning Disabilities, testified that due to the cuts at OCR, 60,000 public schools and 30 million K-12 students were left without a dedicated civil rights investigator, with OCR dismissing 30% more cases last year than in the previous year. She warned it would be “improbable, if not impossible” for OCR to sufficiently resolve incoming disability discrimination cases with staff cut in half.
    Senator Warren also highlighted the story of G, a student with an intellectual disability whose mom filed a complaint with OCR after G was allegedly locked in a padded room at her school repeatedly, despite not posing a danger to herself or others. The Trump administration fired the lawyer assigned to investigate G’s case, leaving G without any support. Ms. Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers, stressed the importance of making the public aware of the impact of cuts to public education by sharing stories like G’s. She described ED as an “opportunity engine” for providing educational oversight and funding for various education programs, which are crucial for students with disabilities.
    “We are in this fight because we believe that the future of this nation lies with our children. We speak out, we fight back, and we do not pass budgets that leave the door open for more cuts for the education of our children,” concluded Senator Warren.
    Senator Warren launched the Save Our Schools campaign in a coordinated effort to fight back against President Trump’s attempts to abolish the Department of Education:
    On July 17, 2025, Senator Warren released a new 23-page report, “Education At Risk: Frontline Impacts of Trump’s War on Students,” highlighting warnings from 11 major national education and civil rights organizations on the impact of the Trump Administration’s dismantling of the Department of Education (ED), slashing support to millions of American students, primary and secondary school teachers, administrators, parents, and student loan borrowers.
    On July 15, 2025, Senators Warren and Sanders, along with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, sent a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, urging her to reverse the interest hike on student loan borrowers in the SAVE forbearance.
    On July 14, 2025, Senator Warren joined a letter to the director of the Office of Management and Budget, Russ Vought, and Secretary of Education, Linda McMahon, demanding that the Department of Education stop blocking nearly $7 billion in funds for K-12 schools, including for afterschool programs.
    On July 3, 2025, Senator Warren led her colleagues in submitting an amicus brief for NAACP v. US, arguing to the United States District Court District of Maryland that President Trump’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education violate separation of powers and lack constitutional authority.
    On June 10, 2025, Senator Warren met with Secretary of Education Linda McMahon and delivered over 1,000 letters to McMahon that the senator had received from people in all 50 states who were worried about the Secretary’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education.
    On June 9, 2025, Senator Warren led her colleagues in pushing the Acting Inspector General of the Department of Education to open an investigation into new information obtained by her office, revealing that DOGE may have gained access to two FSA internal systems, in addition to sensitive borrower data.
    On May 20, 2025, Senator Warren and 27 other senators pushed for full funding for the Office of Federal Student Aid.
    On May 14, 2025, Senator Warren led a Senate forum entitled “Stealing the American Dream: How Trump and Republicans Are Raising Education Costs for Families,” highlighting the consequences of Secretary Linda McMahon’s reckless dismantling of the Department of Education and President Trump’s “big, beautiful bill” for working- and middle-class students and borrowers.
    On May 13, 2025, Senator Warren agreed to meet with Education Secretary Linda McMahon and promised to bring questions and stories from Americans across the country to highlight how the Trump administration’s attacks on education are hurting American families.
    On May 6, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren highlighted the consequences of President Trump and Secretary Linda McMahon’s reckless dismantling of the Department of Education for American families in a Senate forum.
    On April 24, 2025, Senator Warren launched a new investigation into the harms of President Trump’s attacks on the Department of Education, seeking information on the impact of the Trump administration’s actions from the members of twelve leading organizations representing schools, parents, teachers, students, borrowers, and researchers.
    On April 10, 2025, following a request led by Senator Warren, the Department of Education’s Acting Inspector General agreed to open an investigation into the Trump administration’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education.
    On April 2, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Mazie Hirono, along with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, sent a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon regarding the Department of Government Efficiency’s proposed plan to replace the Department of Education’s federal student aid call centers with generative artificial intelligence chatbots.
    On April 2, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren launched the Save Our Schools campaign to fight back against the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education and highlight the consequences for every student and public school in America.
    On March 27, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) led a letter to Acting Department of Education Inspector General René Rocque requesting they conduct an investigation of the Trump Administration’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education.
    On March 20, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders led a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon regarding the Trump Administration’s decision to slash the capacity of Federal Student Aid to handle student aid complaints.
    On February 24, 2025, in a response to Senator Warren, Secretary McMahon gave her first public admission that she “wholeheartedly” agreed with Trump’s plans to abolish the Department of Education.
    On February 11, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Andy Kim sent Linda McMahon, Secretary-Designate for the U.S. Department of Education, a 12-page letter with 65 questions on McMahon’s policy views in advance of her nomination hearing.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 170 companies from all over the world participated in all eight CIIEs

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    SHANGHAI, July 25 (Xinhua) — A total of 170 overseas companies and 27 institutions have joined the eight China International Import Expos (CIIE), the organizer of the expo announced at a press conference on Friday.

    According to the organizer, more than 50 countries and international organizations have confirmed their participation in the national comprehensive exhibition, which will be held within the framework of the upcoming 8th CIIE this year. Sweden, the UAE and other countries will act as honorary guest countries, and Kyrgyzstan will participate for the first time.

    This year, the volume of reserved exhibition space for the CIIE commercial exposition has exceeded 330,000 square meters, the organizer added.

    As CIIE Deputy Bureau Director Wu Zhengping noted, companies from Canada, Malaysia, New Zealand, Norway, Peru and other countries set a record in participation, which clearly demonstrates their confidence in the Chinese economy and enthusiasm for the CIIE.

    This year, CIIE will for the first time include a special zone for products from participating least developed countries. The expo will also expand and upgrade the existing African products zone and launch a “cross-border e-commerce product selection platform” to help overseas SMEs successfully enter the Chinese market. –0–

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

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China Promotes Preservation of World Cultural Heritage Through Cooperation: Think Tank Report

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    ZHENGZHOU, July 25 (Xinhua) — China is playing an increasingly active role in preserving world cultural heritage, promoting cooperation among civilizations, according to a report released Friday by the Xinhua Institute, a think tank affiliated with the Xinhua News Agency.

    The report, entitled “Jointly Protecting the Treasures of Human Civilization: China’s Concept and Practice of Cultural Heritage Preservation in the New Era,” provides a detailed explanation of China’s efforts to protect and transmit cultural heritage.

    As a key area, the authors highlight China’s efforts to build cross-border partnerships and promote global heritage conservation activities, including projects to assist countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative, such as Cambodia, Nepal, Myanmar and Uzbekistan.

    According to the report, China has also launched a number of regional cooperation initiatives, including the Asian Cultural Heritage Preservation Initiative and the Asian Alliance for Cultural Heritage Preservation, which have received positive feedback and brought together the joint efforts of all parties in the Asian region.

    In addition, the document notes that China has built a global community for the protection of cultural heritage through cooperation in implementing relevant conventions, sharing technologies, training talented professionals, responding to challenges, and mutually beneficial development. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Hong Kong SAR, Vanuatu officials discuss strengthening business and trade exchanges

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    HONG KONG, July 25 (Xinhua) — Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) Chief Executive Lee Jiachao met with Vanuatu Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Economic Management Johnny Koanapo Rasu here on Friday.

    Welcoming the visit of J. Koanapo Rasu and his delegation to Hong Kong to participate in trade and economic cooperation activities, Li Jiachao said the SAR invites Vanuatu enterprises to leverage the city’s role as a “super-connector” and “super-value-added creator” to explore overseas markets and China’s hinterland, and expand trade and business exchanges between the two sides.

    Li Jiachao stressed that Hong Kong is currently making full use of its advantage as a link between China’s interior and the rest of the world under the policy of “one country, two systems” and actively deepening international exchanges and cooperation.

    The SAR chief executive also noted that in addition to strengthening development in traditional markets, Hong Kong will continue to explore emerging markets around the world, such as those in the Belt and Road Initiative countries, and expand trade and economic ties with countries in the Global South, including Vanuatu. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Navy Public Health Nurse Returns from Pacific Partnership Mission in Tonga

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    NUKU’ALOFA, Tonga — Cmdr. Christina Carter, a public health nurse currently serving as Director for Public Health at Naval Hospital Twentynine Palms and Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) Twentynine Palms, recently returned from a temporary assignment to the Kingdom of Tonga in June, where she served as part of Pacific Partnership 2025, the U.S. Navy’s largest annual humanitarian assistance and disaster relief mission in the Indo-Pacific region.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Pennsylvania Residents Sentenced to Prison for Narcotics Trafficking

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    One of the defendants also sentenced on unlawful possession of a firearm conviction

    JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – Three residents of Pennsylvania have been sentenced in federal court on their convictions of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute quantities of crack cocaine, cocaine, fentanyl, heroin, and/or methamphetamine, with one of the defendants also being sentenced for unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    The sentences imposed by United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan were:

    Defendant Age Residence Sentence
    Azheem Ellis 49 Philadelphia, Pa. 96 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release
    James Dotson 47 Johnstown, Pa. 180 months in prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release
    Sandra Box 59 East Conemaugh, Pa. 33 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release

    According to information presented to the Court, from in and around April 2019 to in and around July 2021, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Ellis conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture of fentanyl, 50 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine, and quantities of heroin, cocaine, and crack. During this same timeframe, Dotson conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, 500 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine, 28 grams or more of a mixture of crack, 40 grams or more of a mixture of fentanyl, and quantities of heroin and cocaine. Additionally, in and around June 2021, Dotson—who had been previously convicted of a felony—unlawfully possessed a firearm. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon. Further, from in and around February 2021 to in and around April 2021, Box conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute quantities of heroin and crack. The  defendants were intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of the drugs that they distributed to others, with Ellis and Dotson as two of the main targets of the wiretap investigation.

    Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

    Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of the defendants. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service–Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, Indiana County District Attorney’s Office, Cambria County Sheriff’s Office, Cambria Township Police Department, Indiana Borough Police Department, Johnstown Police Department, Upper Yoder Township Police Department, Richland Police Department, Ferndale Police Department, and other local law enforcement agencies.

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Tribal Support for Newhouse Legislation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Newhouse (4th District of Washington)

    Headline: WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Tribal Support for Newhouse Legislation

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act alongside Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA), Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) to improve hiring and retention for tribal law enforcement officers in Central Washington and across the United States.  

    Here is what they are saying about the Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act: 

    Jarred-Michael Erickson, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, said, “The Colville Tribes strongly supports the ‘Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act. The bill would implement long overdue reforms and remove administrative barriers to tribal law officers enforcing federal laws on their reservation lands. It will also assist the Colville Tribes and other tribes in recruiting and retaining officers, which is critical for rural tribes that have large land bases and not enough officers to adequately patrol.” 

    Jeremy Takala, Law & Order Committee Chairman, Yakama Nation Tribal Council, said, “Bolstering support for Tribal law enforcement recruitment and retention is crucial to addressing the many serious and systemic public safety issues in Indian Country. The issue is particularly pressing for the Yakama Nation and other tribes with large-land bases and a severe lack of resources to adequately patrol such a vast area. At Yakama we are facing an overwhelming confluence of public safety crises. We have experienced a surge in violent and property crimes, the highest rate of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women/People in the region, and a terrifying rise in outside gang and cartel-related drug activity coming onto our lands, including the pervasive and deadly fentanyl epidemic. The recent coordinated, multi-agency drug trafficking interdiction “Operation Overdrive” that dismantled a large drug distribution network operating on the Yakama Reservation shows what is possible when all levels of government work together to make our communities safer. The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act will help give the Yakama Nation and other tribes the tools and funding necessary to protect our communities and people who live, work, and raise their families on our lands. The Yakama Nation appreciates Congressman Newhouse’s partnership with us and his continued work to address long-standing impediments to Tribal sovereignty and our public safety efforts.” 

    Dustin Klatush, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis Reservation, said, “The Chehalis Tribe strongly supports the bill. Our Tribe is fortunate in that we are able to pay our law enforcement officers competitive salaries but competitive retirement benefits are currently out of reach for Chehalis and most other tribes around the country. If enacted, this will allow Chehalis and other tribes to take care of the officers that patrol and keep our communities safe.” 

    Glen Nenema, Chairman, Kalispel Tribe of Indians, said, “Many tribal police departments are chronically understaffed and massively underfunded. The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act would level the playing field for tribal police benefits, retirement, and pension, allowing tribes to improve retention and recruitment of officers on tribal lands. Ultimately, passage of the act would help improve overall safety in tribal communities. We are grateful to Congressman Newhouse, Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez, and their colleagues for championing this act and hope the overwhelming tribal support will ensure its approval.” 

    Everett Ekdahl, Jr., Vice President, Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, said, “As a tribal law enforcement officer and an elected tribal leader, I know firsthand how hard it is to recruit and retain law enforcement officers. This bill will make it so much easier to achieve that objective by ensuring tribal law enforcement officers have access to proper retirement benefits. This bill will make our community safer.” 

    Leonard Forsman, Chairman, Suquamish Tribe, said, “The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act will provide tribal nations with the tools necessary to recruit and retain law enforcements officers. It shows Congress’s commitment to public safety on tribal lands and the fair treatment of tribal law enforcement officers. We are grateful for Senator Cantwell, Congressman Newhouse, and Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez for their leadership on this important issue.” 

    Timothy Nuvangyaoma, Chairman, Hopi Tribe, said, “The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act represents a crucial advancement in ensuring that tribal law enforcement agencies, such as Hopi Law Enforcement Services, have the support they need to protect those that live and work on the Hopi Reservation. The Hopi Tribe is grateful to Senator Cantwell, Congressman Newhouse, Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez, and their colleagues for their leadership strengthening recruitment, retention, and public safety across tribal nations.” 

    Teri Gobin, Chair, Tulalip Tribes, said, “The Tulalip Tribes strongly and unequivocally support the Tribal Law Enforcement Parity Act. Our tribal law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities, and they deserve the same retirement and benefits as their federal counterparts. This legislation is about parity and public safety. We are losing dedicated, highly trained officers because we can’t offer competitive retirement benefits. Passing the Parity Act is critical to keeping our officers on the force and ensuring the safety and security of everyone—tribal and non-tribal—who lives, works, and visits our lands.” 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SecAF visits Asia-Pacific to strengthen alliances, assess readiness

    Source: United States Air Force

    Headline: SecAF visits Asia-Pacific to strengthen alliances, assess readiness

    Secretary of the Air Force Troy E. Meink departed July 24 on his first international trip as SecAF, traveling throughout the U.S. Asia-Pacific area of responsibility to reinforce international partnerships and meet with Airmen and Guardians supporting the 2025 Department-Level Exercise. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Attendance of State Minister Fujii at the symposium organized by Sasakawa Peace Foundation and the commemorative dinner for the High-Level Expert Meeting on Japan and Africa Partnerships

    Source: APO


    .

    On July 25, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr. FUJII Hisayuki attended the Special International Symposium titled “Forging a Sustainable Future through Africa-Japan Collaboration”, organized by Sasakawa Peace Foundationand the commemorative dinner for High-Level Expert Meeting on Japan and Africa International Partnerships held at the Meiji Kinenkan and delivered a guest speech. The summary is as follows:

    1. In his address at the Special International Symposium, State Minister Fujii stated that Japan and Africa, both surrounded by oceans, are well-positioned to strengthen cooperation by sharing knowledge and experience to promote economic development through ocean conservation and sustainable use. He further emphasized that the opportunity for dialogue between Japanese and African leaders, as exemplified by this symposium, is highly welcome and will provide valuable input for the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9).
    2. State Minister Fujii engaged in discussions with former African heads of state and other prominent figures at the dinner celebrating the High-Level Expert Meeting on Japan and Africa Partnerships, hosted by the Sasakawa Peace Foundation.

    (Reference) African participants in the High-Level Expert Meeting on Japan and Africa Partnerships

    • H.E. Chief. Olusegun Obasanjo, Former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
    • H.E. Dr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, Former President of the United Republic of Tanzania
    • H.E. Mr. Jorge Carlos Fonseca, Former President of the Republic of Cabo Verd
    • H.E. Dr. Ibrahim Hassane Mayaki, Former Prime Minister of the Republic of Niger
    • Dr. Geraldine Fraser-Moloketi, Former Minister of Public Service and Administration
    • Dr. Donald Kaberuka, Former President of African Development Bank.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • PM Modi expands ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative globally with tree plantation in Maldives

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a strong show of commitment to environmental conservation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu on Friday planted mango saplings in Male as part of India’s ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ (Plant for Mother) initiative and Maldives’s “Pledge of 5 Million Tree Plantation” campaign.

    “India and the Maldives fully understand the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation. And we are committed to doing everything possible to boost sustainability. This evening in Male, President Muizzu and I planted saplings, strengthening the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative and the Pledge of 5 Million Tree Plantation of the Maldives Government,” PM Modi posted on X.

    Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting the Maldives and its people, in line with their needs and priorities, and for the peace, progress, and prosperity of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

    Earlier in the day, the two leaders jointly inaugurated the state-of-the-art Ministry of Defence (MoD) building of the Maldives in Male. Overlooking the Indian Ocean, the 11-storey structure stands as a symbol of the strong and enduring defence and security cooperation between the two nations. The building, constructed with India’s financial assistance, is expected to enhance the operational capabilities of Maldives’s defence and law enforcement authorities.

    PM Modi also handed over two Aarogya Maitri Health Cubes (BHISHM sets) to the Government of Maldives. These portable emergency medical units are equipped with advanced facilities, including ICU, operating theatre, X-ray, laboratory, and emergency care systems. Each unit can independently support a crew of six medical professionals and treat up to 200 casualties for up to 72 hours.

    “Presented BHISHM cubes to President Muizzu, reaffirming our partnership in service of the people. Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita & Maitri (BHISHM) is a symbol of India’s commitment to timely and compassionate healthcare support. These deployable medical cubes carry essential medicines and equipment for emergency care,” PM Modi said on X.

    Additionally, the two sides witnessed the exchange of six MoUs in areas including fisheries and aquaculture, meteorology, digital public infrastructure, UPI, Indian Pharmacopoeia, and a concessional Line of Credit (LoC). The new LoC extends ₹4,850 crore (approximately USD 550 million) to support infrastructure development and related activities in the Maldives.

    An Amendatory Agreement to the existing LoC was also exchanged, reducing Maldives’s annual debt repayment burden by 40 percent- from USD 51 million to USD 29 million. Both countries also exchanged Terms of Reference for the proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

    In a further boost to developmental ties, the leaders virtually inaugurated a roads and drainage project in Addu City and six High-Impact Community Development Projects in other regions. Prime Minister Modi also handed over 3,300 social housing units and 72 vehicles to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and immigration authorities.

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: SecAF visits Asia-Pacific to strengthen alliances, assess readiness

    Source: United States Spaceforce

    Secretary of the Air Force Troy E. Meink departed July 24 on his first international trip as SecAF, traveling throughout the U.S. Asia-Pacific area of responsibility to reinforce international partnerships and meet with Airmen and Guardians supporting the 2025 Department-Level Exercise. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: SecAF visits Asia-Pacific to strengthen alliances, assess readiness

    Source: United States Air Force

    Secretary of the Air Force Troy E. Meink departed July 24 on his first international trip as SecAF, traveling throughout the U.S. Asia-Pacific area of responsibility to reinforce international partnerships and meet with Airmen and Guardians supporting the 2025 Department-Level Exercise. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • PM Modi honoured in Maldives as India’s second-longest serving Prime Minister

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a ceremony marked by warmth and diplomatic goodwill, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu on Friday extended congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recognising his achievement as India’s second-longest serving Prime Minister in consecutive terms.

    Addressing a formal banquet held in Male in honour of the visiting Indian leader, President Muizzu hailed Prime Minister Modi’s uninterrupted tenure of 4,078 days as a reflection of his “unwavering commitment to public service and dedication to the progress and prosperity of the Indian people.”

    “Tonight, we are delighted to reciprocate that friendship and goodwill in the spirit of the close ties between our two nations. Let me convey my heartiest congratulations to Your Excellency on becoming the second-longest serving Prime Minister of India. This remarkable milestone is a testament to your leadership and vision,” said President Muizzu.

    Prime Minister Modi arrived in the Maldivian capital earlier in the day from the United Kingdom, where he had concluded a landmark official visit. He was received at Velana International Airport by President Muizzu and senior members of the Maldivian Cabinet, including the Foreign Minister, Defence Minister, Finance Minister, and Minister of Homeland Security.

    The visit comes at the invitation of President Muizzu, in conjunction with the 60th anniversary of Maldivian independence. Prime Minister Modi is attending the national celebrations as the Guest of Honour- a gesture symbolic of the deep and enduring relationship between the two countries.

    India was among the first nations to recognise the Maldives’ independence in 1965, and the latest visit is viewed as an opportunity to reaffirm bilateral cooperation in areas including maritime security, regional stability, infrastructure development, and cultural exchange.

    With 4,078 consecutive days in office, Prime Minister Modi has surpassed the uninterrupted tenure of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who served 4,077 days between 1966 and 1977. This milestone further consolidates Modi’s position in India’s political history, underlining a decade of sustained leadership.

    — IANS

  • PM Modi honoured in Maldives as India’s second-longest serving Prime Minister

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a ceremony marked by warmth and diplomatic goodwill, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu on Friday extended congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recognising his achievement as India’s second-longest serving Prime Minister in consecutive terms.

    Addressing a formal banquet held in Male in honour of the visiting Indian leader, President Muizzu hailed Prime Minister Modi’s uninterrupted tenure of 4,078 days as a reflection of his “unwavering commitment to public service and dedication to the progress and prosperity of the Indian people.”

    “Tonight, we are delighted to reciprocate that friendship and goodwill in the spirit of the close ties between our two nations. Let me convey my heartiest congratulations to Your Excellency on becoming the second-longest serving Prime Minister of India. This remarkable milestone is a testament to your leadership and vision,” said President Muizzu.

    Prime Minister Modi arrived in the Maldivian capital earlier in the day from the United Kingdom, where he had concluded a landmark official visit. He was received at Velana International Airport by President Muizzu and senior members of the Maldivian Cabinet, including the Foreign Minister, Defence Minister, Finance Minister, and Minister of Homeland Security.

    The visit comes at the invitation of President Muizzu, in conjunction with the 60th anniversary of Maldivian independence. Prime Minister Modi is attending the national celebrations as the Guest of Honour- a gesture symbolic of the deep and enduring relationship between the two countries.

    India was among the first nations to recognise the Maldives’ independence in 1965, and the latest visit is viewed as an opportunity to reaffirm bilateral cooperation in areas including maritime security, regional stability, infrastructure development, and cultural exchange.

    With 4,078 consecutive days in office, Prime Minister Modi has surpassed the uninterrupted tenure of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who served 4,077 days between 1966 and 1977. This milestone further consolidates Modi’s position in India’s political history, underlining a decade of sustained leadership.

    — IANS

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Waterski championships make waves in Calgary

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-India FTA: Minister of State for Trade Policy and Economic Security’s request for Food Standards Agency and Food Standards Scotland advice

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    UK-India FTA: Minister of State for Trade Policy and Economic Security’s request for Food Standards Agency and Food Standards Scotland advice

    Minister of State for Trade Policy and Economic Security’s request for Food Standards Agency and Food Standards Scotland advice on the UK-India Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).

    Documents

    Minister of State for Trade Policy and Economic Security’s request for Food Standards Agency and Food Standards Scotland advice (24 July 2025)

    Unnumbered command paper

    PDF, 131 KB, 2 pages

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    Details

    The Minister of State for Trade Policy and Economic Security wrote to the Food Standards Agency and Food Standards Scotland on 24 July 2025 to request their advice on the UK-India Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 July 2025

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Anuradha Thakur nominated as director on RBI Central Board

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Central Government has nominated Anuradha Thakur, Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs, as a Director on the Central Board of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), replacing Ajay Seth.

    According to an official release issued on Friday, Thakur’s appointment is effective from July 24, and will remain in effect until further notice.

    Earlier in the day, RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated that the Reserve Bank’s monetary policies are forward-looking, with the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) placing greater emphasis on future outlook than on current data.

    The MPC is scheduled to meet from August 4 to 6, with the monetary policy decision to be announced on August 6, 2025.

    Speaking at the Financial Express BFSI Summit in Mumbai, Governor Malhotra said, “Monetary policy, being data-driven, will be guided more by the outlook, based on revised figures if any call is taken.”

    He added, “The neutral stance allows the flexibility to move in either direction- or even to pause. The MPC will evaluate the data that comes in.”

    During the event, the Governor also underscored the RBI’s primary challenge of maintaining price stability.

    “Price stability continues to be challenge number one. I would also add banking regulation, because we are a full-service central bank. In addition to monetary policy, we oversee various aspects, including banking regulation,” he said.

    Governor Malhotra also flagged concerns around conflicts of interest and corporate ownership-particularly when a single business group operates in both the financial sector (such as banks) and the real economy (such as manufacturing or retail).

    “While some NBFCs have deep pockets, if the same group is involved in both financial and real-economy activities, it creates an inherent conflict of interest- these concerns remain,” he said.

    -ANI

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-India Trade Deal: Minister of State for Trade Policy and Economic Security’s request for Trade and Agriculture Commission advice

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    UK-India Trade Deal: Minister of State for Trade Policy and Economic Security’s request for Trade and Agriculture Commission advice

    Minister of State for Trade Policy and Economic Security’s request for Trade and Agriculture Commission advice on the UK-India CETA.

    Documents

    Minister of State for Trade Policy and Economic Security’s request for Trade and Agriculture Commission advice (24 July 2025)

    Unnumbered command paper

    PDF, 137 KB, 2 pages

    Order a copy

    Details

    The Minister of State for Trade Policy and Economic Security wrote to the Trade and Agriculture Commission (TAC) on 24 July 2025 to request their advice on the UK-India Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 July 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: In the first six months of 2025, Uzbekistan imported over 24 thousand passenger cars

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Tashkent, July 25 (Xinhua) — Uzbekistan imported over 24,000 passenger cars in the first six months of 2025, local media reported on Friday, citing the National Statistics Committee of Uzbekistan.

    In January-June 2025, 24,355 passenger cars worth 422.1 million US dollars were imported to Uzbekistan, the report says.

    Of the imported passenger cars, 14,356 were electric vehicles.

    Among the countries that supplied the most passenger cars to Uzbekistan in the first 6 months of 2025, China took first place – 21,399 units. The Republic of Korea is in second place – 2,032 units, followed by India – 168 units. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: As the UK reviews the pension age again, could more time off when you’re young compensate for later retirement?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Malte Jauch, Lecturer in Management and Marketing, University of Essex

    The retirement age keeps creeping up. In the UK, the state pension is currently paid to people at 66, but that’s set to rise to 67 in the next couple of years, and a move to 68 might come sooner than previously planned after the government launched a review.

    Gradually increasing the working lifespan is never going to be popular. But one way of making this policy more palatable could be to give people early access to some of the free time that retirement promises.

    After all, sometimes that promise fails to deliver, because many people die before they reach retirement age.

    Globally, about 27% of men and 18% women die before the age of 65 (although this proportion also includes deaths before working age). In wealthy countries, the number of people who die prematurely is lower than the global average, but still significant. In the EU, 16% of men and 8% of women die before 65.

    For these people, the promise of free time and leisure in old age never materialises. There will also be many whose physical and mental health will have deteriorated by the time they retire, so that they are less capable of enjoying their free time.

    So perhaps slogging away until retirement is not an ideal arrangement.

    But what if you could transfer some of the time off that retirement promises to an earlier stage of your life, when everything is a rush, crammed with the demands of work and domestic responsibilities?

    Luckily, the stark contrast between a time-poor middle age and a time-rich old age is not unavoidable. Governments can choose different approaches that directly affect how free time is distributed across our life stages.

    Japan, for example, is a country which has opted to focus on delaying leisure time, and encourages workers to postpone that enjoyment of free time until old age. It does this in part by rewarding workers with wage increases – known as “seniority-based pay” – if they don’t take career breaks.

    Japanese employment law also permits companies to force employees to retire at the age 60. As a result, on average, Japanese workers work 1,680 hours per year and retire at 63.

    In the Netherlands by contrast, people work less (1,433 hours per year) and retire later – at 67. Labour laws make it easier for employees to decrease their hours, by going part time, for example.

    Discrimination between workers based on work hours is prohibited, so that those who opt for part-time work are guaranteed equal treatment with regard to wages and other benefits. But the high legal age of retirement discourages Dutch workers from early retirement.

    So how should we assess these different approaches?

    Time on your side?

    One way to look at retirement is that it compensates us for our previous hard work. The prospect of compensation might lead us to adopt a relaxed attitude toward long work hours. Once we’ve stopped work, we’ll be rewarded with a large chunk of leisure.

    But for those who don’t make it to retirement, this promise of a life of leisure turns out to be a cruel joke. Early deaths are also more prominent among those who have already suffered from poverty and other disadvantages.

    The right time for time off?
    Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock

    The same is true for ill health. The disadvantaged are much more likely to suffer from a variety of conditions that prevent them from being able to fully enjoy retirement.

    Another risk for those who are healthy when they retire is that relatives or friends may have died. This reduces the value of the retirees’ free time because the loved ones they hoped to share that time with are no longer around.

    So perhaps some of that free time could be better used when workers are younger. Raising a family, for example, is extremely time consuming, and there can’t be many parents of young children who don’t wish for a few extra hours a week to call their own.

    Even devoting time to hobbies when we’re younger might be considered more efficient than waiting until we have retired. After all, if you learn a new language or how to paint when you’re in your 40s, you may have much more time to enjoy your new skill over the ensuing decades.

    My research suggests that for all these reasons, the state should help people take some of their retirement early.

    None of us knows how long we will live, or how healthy we will be in the future. Faced with this uncertainty, it makes sense not to gamble with our opportunities for free time and leave it until it may be too late.

    Even those who enjoy their work have strong reasons not to postpone a large proportion of their time off, and governments should help us access more of it while we’re younger.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

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

    – ref. As the UK reviews the pension age again, could more time off when you’re young compensate for later retirement? – https://theconversation.com/as-the-uk-reviews-the-pension-age-again-could-more-time-off-when-youre-young-compensate-for-later-retirement-259464

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: As the UK reviews the pension age again, could more time off when you’re young compensate for later retirement?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Malte Jauch, Lecturer in Management and Marketing, University of Essex

    The retirement age keeps creeping up. In the UK, the state pension is currently paid to people at 66, but that’s set to rise to 67 in the next couple of years, and a move to 68 might come sooner than previously planned after the government launched a review.

    Gradually increasing the working lifespan is never going to be popular. But one way of making this policy more palatable could be to give people early access to some of the free time that retirement promises.

    After all, sometimes that promise fails to deliver, because many people die before they reach retirement age.

    Globally, about 27% of men and 18% women die before the age of 65 (although this proportion also includes deaths before working age). In wealthy countries, the number of people who die prematurely is lower than the global average, but still significant. In the EU, 16% of men and 8% of women die before 65.

    For these people, the promise of free time and leisure in old age never materialises. There will also be many whose physical and mental health will have deteriorated by the time they retire, so that they are less capable of enjoying their free time.

    So perhaps slogging away until retirement is not an ideal arrangement.

    But what if you could transfer some of the time off that retirement promises to an earlier stage of your life, when everything is a rush, crammed with the demands of work and domestic responsibilities?

    Luckily, the stark contrast between a time-poor middle age and a time-rich old age is not unavoidable. Governments can choose different approaches that directly affect how free time is distributed across our life stages.

    Japan, for example, is a country which has opted to focus on delaying leisure time, and encourages workers to postpone that enjoyment of free time until old age. It does this in part by rewarding workers with wage increases – known as “seniority-based pay” – if they don’t take career breaks.

    Japanese employment law also permits companies to force employees to retire at the age 60. As a result, on average, Japanese workers work 1,680 hours per year and retire at 63.

    In the Netherlands by contrast, people work less (1,433 hours per year) and retire later – at 67. Labour laws make it easier for employees to decrease their hours, by going part time, for example.

    Discrimination between workers based on work hours is prohibited, so that those who opt for part-time work are guaranteed equal treatment with regard to wages and other benefits. But the high legal age of retirement discourages Dutch workers from early retirement.

    So how should we assess these different approaches?

    Time on your side?

    One way to look at retirement is that it compensates us for our previous hard work. The prospect of compensation might lead us to adopt a relaxed attitude toward long work hours. Once we’ve stopped work, we’ll be rewarded with a large chunk of leisure.

    But for those who don’t make it to retirement, this promise of a life of leisure turns out to be a cruel joke. Early deaths are also more prominent among those who have already suffered from poverty and other disadvantages.

    The right time for time off?
    Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock

    The same is true for ill health. The disadvantaged are much more likely to suffer from a variety of conditions that prevent them from being able to fully enjoy retirement.

    Another risk for those who are healthy when they retire is that relatives or friends may have died. This reduces the value of the retirees’ free time because the loved ones they hoped to share that time with are no longer around.

    So perhaps some of that free time could be better used when workers are younger. Raising a family, for example, is extremely time consuming, and there can’t be many parents of young children who don’t wish for a few extra hours a week to call their own.

    Even devoting time to hobbies when we’re younger might be considered more efficient than waiting until we have retired. After all, if you learn a new language or how to paint when you’re in your 40s, you may have much more time to enjoy your new skill over the ensuing decades.

    My research suggests that for all these reasons, the state should help people take some of their retirement early.

    None of us knows how long we will live, or how healthy we will be in the future. Faced with this uncertainty, it makes sense not to gamble with our opportunities for free time and leave it until it may be too late.

    Even those who enjoy their work have strong reasons not to postpone a large proportion of their time off, and governments should help us access more of it while we’re younger.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

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

    – ref. As the UK reviews the pension age again, could more time off when you’re young compensate for later retirement? – https://theconversation.com/as-the-uk-reviews-the-pension-age-again-could-more-time-off-when-youre-young-compensate-for-later-retirement-259464

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illinois Man Sentenced to 41 Months in Prison

    Source: US FBI

    HAMMOND – Yesterday, Kareim J. Coverson, 37 years old, of Calumet City, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Phillip P. Simon after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor.

    Coverson was sentenced to 41 months in prison, 2 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $614,597.50 in restitution to the victims of the offense.

    According to documents in the case, between approximately May 2019 and June 2020, Coverson participated in a scheme to fraudulently obtain over $3.3 million from the proceeds of large business checks stolen out of the mail.  Coverson and his co-conspirators registered fictitious corporations with the Indiana and Illinois Secretaries of State, opened fraudulent corporate bank accounts, and deposited the stolen checks into the fraudulent accounts.  The actions of Coverson and his associates resulted in an unrecovered loss of over $1 million to the affected businesses and financial institutions.

    Coverson is the last of 10 defendants to be convicted and sentenced in this case and a related prosecution arising from the same scheme.   In April 2024, Coverson’s brother, Oliver Coverson, was sentenced to 96 months in prison for his role as the organizer of the scheme.  Earlier this year, Defendant Scott Vue received a prison sentence of 51 months for his role in the offense, which included opening fraudulent bank accounts, depositing stolen checks, and recruiting additional participants to the conspiracy.

    “The Coverson brothers and their associates assembled a large criminal conspiracy that caused millions of dollars of harm to businesses and banks throughout the United States.  These defendants stole from small and large businesses alike, disrupting the flow of commerce, and compromising the mail and financial systems on which everyday Americans rely to conduct their business,” said Proctor.  “As the court’s sentences in this case demonstrate, such conduct is not tolerated in the Northern District of Indiana and will be met with serious consequences.”   

    This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation – Office of Inspector General, and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Zachary D. Heater.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Ricketts Introduces the THINK TWICE Act to Combat Chinese Arms Sales

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced the Tracking Hostile Industry Networks and Kit while Thwarting Weapons Imports from Chinese Entities (THINK TWICE) Act of 2025.  The THINK TWICE Act would require an assessment of arms sales by Communist China and a strategy to dissuade countries from buying Chinese weapons systems and defense equipment.  The legislation was also sponsored by Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO).
    “Communist China has emerged as a major weapons supplier. This is particularly true in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia,” said Ricketts.  “This development has major implications for American defense companies, our military operations, and our global security partnerships.  The recent Pakistan-India clash saw significant use of Chinese-made weapons. This should be a major wake-up call that we must do more to combat these arms sales.  That’s why I’ve introduced the THINK TWICE Act. This act requires a coordinated strategy to dissuade new purchases of Chinese-made weapons. It will also ensure our defense industrial base is better equipped to provide alternatives to prospective buyers.”
    “As China wields arms sales to reshape the international system in Beijing’s image, the United States must reassert its role as a security partner of choice,” said Bennet.  “This legislation is an essential step toward countering China’s expanding military footprint and geopolitical influence.”
    The THINK TWICE Act would:
    Requires the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretary of State, to report on arms sales facilitated by entities of the People’s Republic of China (PRC).  The report requires inclusion of:
    The specific weapons systems, technical aspects, and capabilities of those weapons;
    The countries mostly likely to procure weapons systems; 
    The weapons that present the greatest security risks regarding the potential to collect intelligence on or compromise U.S. platforms;
    The factors that incentivize countries to procure Chinese weapons; 
    And the PRC’s strategy regarding arms sales.

    Requires the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, to develop a strategy to dissuade purchases of new weapons systems and defense equipment from the PRC.  The strategy would include:
    An information campaign to warn countries interested in procuring weapons systems and defense equipment originating from China about risks; 
    A description of actions the U.S. can take, including FMS reforms, commercial sales, and foreign military financing; 
    An analysis of whether sanctions or economic restrictions targeting potential buyers could be used as an effective deterrent; 
    A plan to ensure sufficient representation of defense firms of the U.S. or trusted allies at defense trade shows; 
    And a plan to combat Chinese disinformation campaigns targeting the performance of Western weapons.

    BACKGROUND:
    Communist China is now the fourth largest arms exporter behind the U.S., Russia, and France.  In recent years, Chinese-made drones, missiles, and fighter jets have been exported to 44 countries.  All around the world, Communist China uses arms sales to promote strategic interests, improve its military’s image and reputation, acquire performance data of Chinese-made weapons in contested environments, exacerbate tensions between the U.S. and traditional security partners, and gain a foothold for further defense and security cooperation.  With Russia unable to facilitate arms sales given its war of aggression in Ukraine, an opportunity has arisen for Communist China to fill the void.
    Bill text can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • 6 MoUs signed, ₹4,850 crore credit announced in PM Modi and President Muizzu bilateral talks

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu at the President’s Office in Male on Friday, marking a diplomatic milestone during his visit to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Maldives’ independence and six decades of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

    Reflecting on the partnership, the two leaders reviewed progress on the India-Maldives Joint Vision for a ‘Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership’ that was adopted during President Muizzu’s state visit to India in October 2024. Modi reiterated India’s commitment to deepening engagement with Maldives in line with the “Neighbourhood First” and “Vision MAHASAGAR” doctrines.

    President Muizzu, in turn, acknowledged India’s consistent support as the “first responder” in times of crisis, and both leaders discussed avenues for enhanced cooperation across infrastructure development, capacity building, health, climate action, and disaster preparedness. They also reviewed maritime security collaboration under the Colombo Security Conclave framework.

    On the economic front, Prime Minister Modi emphasised the importance of concluding a proposed Free Trade Agreement and a Bilateral Investment Treaty to unlock new trade and investment opportunities. He also welcomed recent steps toward digital integration, including agreements for the use of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI), RuPay card acceptance, and local currency trade mechanisms, with a view to boosting tourism and digital commerce.

    Six Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged across key areas such as fisheries, aquaculture, meteorology, digital public infrastructure, pharmacopoeia, and a concessional Line of Credit. A new Line of Credit, amounting to approximately ₹4,850 crore (about USD 550 million), was announced for infrastructure and other developmental activities in Maldives. An amended agreement on existing lines of credit was also signed, bringing down Maldives’s annual debt repayment by 40%, from USD 51 million to USD 29 million.

    The leaders jointly inaugurated a roads and drainage project in Addu City and six High Impact Community Development Projects across various cities. Modi also handed over 3,300 social housing units and 72 vehicles intended for the Maldives National Defence Force and immigration authorities.

    In a gesture of medical diplomacy, India gifted two units of Aarogya Maitri Health Cubes (BHISHM) to the Maldives. These mobile health units, equipped with modern medical devices, can support 200 casualties and sustain six personnel for up to 72 hours.

    Further underlining shared environmental goals, Modi and Muizzu planted mango saplings, symbolising India’s “Ek Pedh Maa Ke Naam” campaign and the Maldives’ “Pledge of 5 Million Trees” initiative.

    Prime Minister Modi also thanked President Muizzu for his condemnation of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam and for expressing solidarity with India’s fight against terrorism.

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Activities of Secretary-General in Brazil, 5-9 July

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, arrived in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Saturday evening, 5 July, to attend the Seventeenth Summit of the BRICS [Brazil, Russian Federation, India and China] countries.

    On Sunday afternoon, 6 July, after being welcomed by Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, the President of Brazil, the Secretary-General addressed an outreach session on “Strengthening multilateralism, economic-financial affairs and artificial intelligence”.  He highlighted that artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping economies and societies, and that the fundamental test is how wisely we guide this transformation.

    The Secretary-General also emphasized that AI cannot be a club of the few, but must benefit all, and in particular developing countries, which must have a real voice in the governance of artificial intelligence.

    In the evening, the Secretary-General attended an official cocktail on the occasion of the BRICS Leader’s Summit, hosted by the President of Brazil, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Janja Lula da Silva.

    On Monday morning, 7 July, soon after his arrival at the 17th Summit of the BRICS venue, the Secretary-General took part in the family photo. He then addressed an outreach session on “Environment, COP30 [Thirtieth Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change] and global health”, warning that our environment is being attacked on all fronts.  Mr. Guterres pointed out that across the world, lives and livelihoods are being ripped apart, and sustainable development gains left in tatters as disasters accelerate.

    The Secretary-General noted that the most vulnerable and the poorer pay the highest price and stressed that we need to tackle the point where climate and health meet.  He also emphasized that we need Governments to build on the progress of last year’s biodiversity COP, particularly reaching an ambitious agreement on finance, adding that we need to make COP30 a success.

    In the afternoon, in a bilateral meeting on the margins of the BRICS Summit, the Secretary-General and the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iran, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, discussed the situation in the Middle East.  The Secretary-General noted the importance of the consolidation of the ceasefire to lay the groundwork for the resumption of negotiations.

    Immediately after, the Secretary-General held a bilateral meeting with the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye, Hakan Fidan.  The Secretary-General and the Minister discussed the strong partnership between the United Nations and Türkiye.  They also exchanged views on the war in Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East and the next round of meetings on Cyprus.

    Also in the afternoon, the Secretary-General met Sergio Diaz-Granados, the Executive President of the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean.

    On Tuesday morning, 8 July, the Secretary-General met with the Premier of the State Council of China, Li Qiang.  They discussed cooperation between the United Nations and China, sustainable development, climate change and financing.

    The Secretary-General commended China for its commitment to multilateralism and thanked China for its valuable contribution to the United Nations and its activities.

    The Secretary-General departed Rio de Janeiro in the afternoon of Tuesday, 8 July.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 155th Joint Patrol of Mekong River Concluded

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    KUNMING, July 25 (Xinhua) — Law enforcement agencies from China, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand concluded the 155th joint patrol of the Mekong River on Friday, the public security department of southwest China’s Yunnan Province said.

    The four-day, three-night joint patrol involved seven patrol vessels and more than 100 law enforcement officers from four countries, covering a total of more than 700 km.

    The mission included combined water-land inspections in some key water areas of the Mekong River. During the patrol, the relevant law enforcement agencies of the four countries also held an information-sharing meeting in Chiang Saen, Thailand, where they had an in-depth exchange of views on the current security situation in the Mekong River basin, experience in joint law enforcement, and key areas for further law enforcement cooperation. Following the meeting, the parties reached a number of agreements.

    In addition, China, Laos and Myanmar will also conduct a joint deployment and training mission in the Mekong waters to further enhance their emergency response capabilities and combat interoperability in real conditions.

    The Mekong River, known in China as the Lancangjiang, is one of the most important waterways for transboundary shipping in Southeast Asia. Joint patrols of the Mekong involving China, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand have been conducted since December 2011. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Essay: “Remembering the Past, Creating the Future” — a photo exhibition in honor of the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the World Anti-Fascist War as a reflection of the history of friendship between China and Russia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Moscow, July 25 (Xinhua) — A photo exhibition titled “Remembering the Past, Creating the Future” in honor of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War was held at the Chinese Embassy in Moscow on Thursday. Sixty-one unique photographs from the archives of the Xinhua News Agency were on display, depicting key events of the war years and the heroic feat of the Chinese people in the war, and also reflecting the contribution of China and the Soviet Union to the victory over fascism and militarism. In addition, visitors were able to see modern photographs telling about the development of Russian-Chinese military and cultural-humanitarian cooperation in recent years.

    Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui, who visited the photo exhibition, said that 80 years ago, China and the Soviet Union, as the main theaters of military operations in Asia and Europe in World War II, played a key role in the fight against Japanese militarism and German Nazism and in achieving Victory. “The countries made a great historical contribution. The Chinese and Russian people fought side by side, at the cost of their lives and blood, accomplished a great feat that went down in history, defending human dignity and restoring peace throughout the world,” he noted.

    The diplomat stressed that as the main victorious countries in World War II and permanent members of the UN Security Council, China and Russia will firmly uphold the victory in World War II, maintain the post-war international order, resist any attempts to interfere in history, safeguard international justice and fairness, jointly promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, and work tirelessly to create a better future for mankind.

    The guest of honor at the photo exhibition was State Secretary – Deputy Minister of Defense of the Russian Federation Anna Tsivileva. She looked at the archival photographs with interest. Her attention was drawn to a black-and-white photo from 1945, which captured the touching moment of farewell of the residents of the city of Luida /now the city of Dalian, Liaoning Province, Northeast China/ to Soviet soldiers and officers returning home after the victory.

    A. Tsivileva also stopped at a bright color photograph taken 10 years ago on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the Victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression. It shows the long-awaited meeting of Chinese and Russian veterans. The already very elderly men, dressed in military uniforms, hug each other tightly. There are tears in their eyes. “Such warm photographs, and a very emotional message of sincere joy from the meeting. Thank you for such a wonderful exhibition,” A. Tsivileva said after viewing the exposition.

    Andrey Vinogradov, head of the Center for the Study of Modern China at the Institute of Oriental Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, called the exhibition very timely in an interview with Xinhua. As a researcher of 20th-century Chinese history, he was interested in looking at the photographs — historical evidence of World War II and the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression.

    “China took part in the war longer than any other coalition country, since 1931. For 14 years, China courageously resisted and thus tied down Japanese forces and contributed to the coalition’s victory, which took place in other theaters, in particular, in the Pacific theater, in Southeast Asia. China contributed to the overall victory throughout this time,” he emphasized.

    Professor of the Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Deputy Chairman of the Committee on Economic Cooperation with Countries of Asia and Oceania of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation Vadim Saltykovskiy believes that today’s unprecedented level of relations between Russia and China is based on the historical experience of interaction that the peoples of the two countries had during the joint fight against fascism. “The basis is still in those 30-40s, when our peoples, our countries really created the basis of our relations,” he noted, adding that preserving historical memory plays an important role in strengthening relations between China and Russia and confronting external challenges.

    Roskino employee Ivan Buzko admitted to a Xinhua correspondent that the exhibition is very emotionally charged. “Looking at these photographs, you can feel how hard it was for the Chinese people in those years, you can feel the pain, the trials that they had to overcome. At the same time, the heroism of the Chinese people is reflected here. It also shows how, through the joint efforts of China, the Soviet Union, the allies and all the movements that fought fascism, they managed to defeat the common enemy. The exhibition is breathtaking,” he shared his feelings. According to him, this exhibition is an important element in the formation of intercultural ties between Russia and China through the prism of those great historical events.

    The exhibition was prepared by the Xinhua Asia-Europe Bureau, the Xinhua Hubei Bureau, and China Image Group. The co-organizer was Angel Yeast Co. Ltd. The event was held with the support of the Chinese Embassy in the Russian Federation. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow hosts formal reception to mark 98th anniversary of PLA founding

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Moscow, July 25 (Xinhua) — A reception to mark the 98th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), which is celebrated on August 1, was held at the Chinese Embassy in Moscow on Thursday.

    The event was attended by employees of diplomatic and military departments of various countries, representatives of the socio-political and expert communities of Russia. Descendants of Russian veterans who fought in China were also invited to the Chinese diplomatic mission.

    As Major General Li Yuge, Defense Attaché at the Chinese Embassy in the Russian Federation, noted in his welcoming speech, over the 98 years of its existence, the PLA, under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, has played an important role in achieving national independence, liberating the people and ensuring the prosperity of the country.

    “Today, the People’s Liberation Army of China is following the instructions of Chairman Xi Jinping to strengthen the armed forces and implement a new military strategy for a new era,” he said, adding that the PLA is striving to achieve all its goals by its 100th anniversary.

    In his speech, the Chinese military attaché also recalled that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the Great Patriotic War and the World Anti-Fascist War. He stressed that China and Russia, as the main theaters of military operations in Asia and Europe during World War II, played a decisive role in the victory over fascism. “We deeply honor the memory of all veterans whose outstanding feats ensured victory in the world anti-fascist war. We categorically reject any attempt to distort the historical truth about World War II,” he assured.

    Speaking about military and military-technical cooperation between China and Russia, Li Yuge said that it has reached the highest level in history. The commanders of the armed forces of the two countries maintain close contacts, the armies constantly expand their professional experience, conduct joint exercises, sea and air patrols, and actively cooperate in training military personnel. “This is conducive to strengthening mutual trust and practical cooperation between the two armies, and contributes to maintaining international peace and regional stability,” the Chinese military officer added.

    On behalf of the Russian Ministry of Defense, State Secretary and Deputy Minister of Defense of the Russian Federation Anna Tsivileva congratulated on the 98th anniversary of the PLA. She noted that a huge path has been covered since the PLA was created on August 1, 1927, and today the Chinese army is one of the most modern and high-tech armies in the world.

    As A. Tsivileva stated, China and Russia demonstrate an example of military cooperation and readiness to jointly counter any challenges and threats. “Moreover, all our joint actions are not directed against third countries and are carried out exclusively in the interests of each other,” she pointed out, noting that the consistent development of interaction between the two states in the field of defense, based on a high level of mutual strategic trust, effectively strengthens regional and global security.

    A festive concert was prepared for the guests of the Chinese embassy with the participation of artists from the Academic Song and Dance Ensemble of the Russian Army named after A. V. Alexandrov and the legendary Russian ensemble “Beryozka”. A photo exhibition “Remembering the Past, Creating the Future” was also organized in honor of the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggressors and the World Anti-Fascist War, where one could see unique historical photographs from the Xinhua archive. –0–

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

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Villa Named Interim Director of North Carolina Zoo

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Villa Named Interim Director of North Carolina Zoo

    Villa Named Interim Director of North Carolina Zoo
    jejohnson6

    Diane Villa, deputy director and chief communications officer for the North Carolina Zoo, has been named interim director of the Zoo following the passing of Director and CEO Pat Simmons. The Zoo is part of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. Villa will lead the N.C. Zoo during a national search for a new director.

    “Diane’s many years of experience at the Zoo and her role as a member of the senior leadership team make her uniquely qualified to lead the North Carolina Zoo through this transition period,” said DNCR Secretary Pamela B. Cashwell. “I am grateful for her willingness to take on this important role at one of North Carolina’s most beloved institutions.”

    During her 31 years working at the North Carolina Zoo, Villa has served as the Zoo’s director of communications and marketing, curator of design, and art director. In her current role of deputy director and chief communications officer, she leads the Zoo’s communications section, which includes marketing, public relations, social media, graphic design, guest services, special events, and park security/emergency operations. She is also involved in the community, serving on the Randolph County Tourism Development Authority Board of Directors.

    “I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to lead the North Carolina Zoo in this interim period,” Villa said. “Under Pat’s leadership, the Zoo built a thoughtful and creative community that I will continue to nourish as we move forward to opening Asia in 2026.”

    Villa holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from East Carolina University and served for five years with the United States Air Force prior to working at the North Carolina Zoo.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Jul 25, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines Announces Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results, Declares Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DES MOINES, Iowa, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Second Quarter 2025 Highlights

    • Net income of $194 million
    • Affordable Housing Program (AHP) assessments of $21 million
    • Voluntary community and housing contributions of $43 million
    • Advances totaled $114.8 billion
    • Mortgage loans held for portfolio, net totaled $13.2 billion
    • Letters of credit totaled $17.7 billion
    • Retained earnings totaled $3.6 billion

    Dividend

    The Board of Directors approved a second quarter 2025 dividend to be paid at an annualized rate of 9.75% on average activity-based stock and 6.00% on average membership stock, unchanged from the prior quarter. The Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (the Bank) expects to make dividend payments totaling $145 million on August 12, 2025.

    Liquidity Mission

    The Bank provides liquidity to its members to support the housing, business, and economic development needs of their communities. Members pledge mortgage loans and other collateral to access the Bank’s core liquidity products of advances, letters of credit, and purchased mortgage loans under the Mortgage Partnership Finance® Program. During the six months ended June 30, 2025, advance balances averaged $104.0 billion, letters of credit averaged $19.2 billion, purchased mortgage loan balances averaged $12.4 billion, and the Bank held an average of $27.7 billion of short-term assets as a ready source of liquidity for its members.

    Affordable Housing and Community Impact

    The Bank’s housing and community development programs are central to its mission. The Bank contributes 10% of its net income each year to its AHP, a grant program that supports the creation, preservation, or purchase of affordable housing. This program includes a competitive AHP and two down payment assistance products called Home$tart and the Native American Homeownership Initiative. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, the Bank accrued statutory AHP assessments of $21 million and $44 million and voluntarily accrued $5 million and $6 million, to be awarded in 2026 through this program.
    In addition to its AHP, the Bank offers its members voluntary programs to further its housing mission. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, the Bank recorded a total of $43 million and $55 million in voluntary community and housing contributions, including the voluntary AHP contribution. Through its voluntary programs in 2025, the Bank:

    • provided $20 million in 0% rate advances to members that originated or purchased mortgage loans from a Habitat for Humanity® affiliate and recorded $4 million in subsidy expense;
    • funded $232 million of home mortgages with an interest rate lower than the current market rate under the Mortgage Rate Relief program, which provided $19 million in grants, including $18 million during the second quarter, to those seeking affordable homeownership; and
    • recorded contributions of $26 million, including $20 million during the second quarter, to its Member Impact Fund to match member donations to local housing and community development organizations.

    Financial Results Discussion

    Net Income – For the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, the Bank recorded net income of $194 million and $399 million compared to $230 million and $504 million for the same periods in 2024.

    Net Interest Income – For the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, the Bank recorded net interest income of $289 million and $537 million, a decrease of $30 million and $131 million when compared to the same periods in 2024. The decrease was due to the yield on interest-earning assets declining at a quicker pace than the cost of interest-bearing liabilities driven primarily by changes in interest rates, which also reduced earnings on invested capital, and a decline in longer-term advances. The decline in net interest income was offset in part by mortgage loan and mortgage-backed security portfolio growth, as well as the call of higher-costing consolidated obligation bonds. In addition, during the three months ended June 30, 2025, the decline was offset by an increase in market value adjustments on the Bank’s fair value hedge relationships.

    Net Interest Spread and Margin – Net interest spread was 0.38 percent and 0.35 percent for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, a decrease of 0.07 percent and 0.10 percent when compared to the same periods in 2024. Net interest margin was 0.64 percent and 0.61 percent for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, a decrease of 0.11 percent and 0.13 percent when compared to the same periods in 2024. The declines in net interest spread and margin were driven by the decrease in net interest income discussed above. The Bank’s cost of funds does not include net interest settlements on economic hedges, which are recorded in other income (loss). As a result, net interest spread and margin do not reflect the full impact of the Bank’s funding and hedging strategies and may experience volatility as interest rates change.

    Other Income (Loss) – For the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, the Bank recorded other income of $16 million and $57 million, an increase of $25 million and $62 million when compared to the same periods in 2024, primarily due to the net changes in fair value on the Bank’s trading securities, fair value option instruments, and economic derivatives.

    Other Expense – For the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, the Bank recorded other expense of $90 million and $151 million, an increase of $35 million and $46 million when compared to the same periods in 2024, primarily driven by an increase in voluntary community and housing contributions.

    Assets – The Bank’s total assets increased to $190.0 billion at June 30, 2025, from $165.3 billion at December 31, 2024, driven primarily by an increase in advances and investments. Advances increased $14.9 billion due mainly to an increase in borrowings by large depository institution members and insurance companies. Investments increased $9.3 billion due in part to an increase in short-term investments, mainly federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell, as well as the purchase of agency mortgage-backed securities and U.S. Treasury obligations.

    Capital – Total capital increased to $10.2 billion at June 30, 2025, from $9.5 billion at December 31, 2024, primarily due to an increase in activity-based capital stock resulting from an increase in advance balances.

     
    Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines
    Financial Highlights
    (preliminary and unaudited)
    Dollars in millions
    Selected Balance Sheet Items June 30,
    2025    		   December 31,
    2024
    Advances $ 114,845     $ 99,951  
    Investments   61,353       52,032  
    Mortgage loans held for portfolio, net   13,197       11,896  
    Total assets   190,022       165,253  
    Consolidated obligations   176,770       153,251  
    Capital stock – Class B putable   6,660       5,989  
    Retained earnings   3,617       3,491  
    Total capital   10,225       9,451  
    Total regulatory capital1   10,311       9,489  
    Regulatory capital ratio   5.43 %     5.74 %

    1  Total regulatory capital includes capital stock, mandatorily redeemable capital stock, and retained earnings. The regulatory capital ratio is calculated as regulatory capital as a percentage of period end assets.

      For the Three Months Ended   For the Six Months Ended
      June 30,   June 30,
    Operating Results   2025       2024       2025       2024  
    Net interest income $ 289     $ 319     $ 537     $ 668  
    Provision (reversal) for credit losses on mortgage loans   —       (1 )     —       (2 )
    Other income (loss)   16       (9 )     57       (5 )
    Other expense   90       55       151       105  
    Affordable Housing Program assessments   21       26       44       56  
    Net income $ 194     $ 230     $ 399     $ 504  
    Performance Ratios              
    Net interest spread   0.38 %     0.45 %     0.35 %     0.45 %
    Net interest margin   0.64       0.75       0.61       0.74  
    Return on average equity (annualized)   7.86       9.57       8.20       10.47  
    Return on average assets (annualized)   0.42       0.53       0.45       0.55  

    The financial results reported in this earnings release for the second quarter of 2025 are preliminary until the Bank announces unaudited financial results in its Second Quarter 2025 Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, expected to be available next month at www.fhlbdm.com and www.sec.gov.

    The Bank is a member-owned cooperative whose mission is to be a reliable provider of funding, liquidity, and services for its members so that they can meet the housing, business, and economic development needs of the communities they serve. The Bank is wholly owned by nearly 1,250 members, including commercial banks, savings institutions, credit unions, insurance companies, and community development financial institutions. The Bank serves Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, and the U.S. Pacific territories of American Samoa, Guam, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. The Bank is one of 11 regional banks that make up the Federal Home Loan Bank System.

    Statements contained in this announcement, including statements describing the objectives, projections, estimates, or future predictions in the Bank’s operations, may be forward-looking statements. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as believes, projects, expects, anticipates, estimates, intends, strategy, plan, could, should, may, and will or their negatives or other variations on these terms. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risk or uncertainty, and actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied or could affect the extent to which a particular objective, projection, estimate, or prediction is realized. As a result, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such statements. A detailed discussion of the more important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and events to differ from such forward-looking statements can be found in the “Risk Factors” section of the Bank’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC. These forward-looking statements apply only as of the date they are made, and the Bank undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

    Contact: Amber Pringnitz
    515.412.2306
    apringnitz@fhlbdm.com

    The MIL Network –