Category: Asia Pacific

MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Govt Bill strips vital job protections from workers

Source: New Zealand Labour Party

The Employer Relations Amendment Bill will make work even less secure for Kiwis.

“At a time when New Zealanders are doing it tough, the Government wants to cut worker protections and make it easier to fire people,” Labour workplace relations and safety spokesperson Jan Tinetti said.

“Christopher Luxon should be focused on creating well-paying jobs and strengthen worker protections. Instead, he’s cut women’s future pay and thinks what New Zealanders need is fewer sick days and less job security.

“Yesterday, Christopher Luxon signalled he is open to halving sick leave days from 10 to five. Opening the door to cuts to sick leave is wrong and Labour will fight it.

“Now, they’ve introduced a Bill that would effectively bypass union-negotiated protections for workers.

“Their Bill repeals rules that provide benefits to new employees in collective bargaining agreements in their first 30 days. They are stripping away protections for new workers who aren’t yet union members.

“It also makes it harder for workers who have been dismissed to seek remedies or reinstatement. Put another way, it’s about to get a lot easier for an employer to fire you.

“Labour will stand up for fairness at work and protect workers’ rights,” Jan Tinetti said.

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MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Govt overreach removes power from local councils

Source: New Zealand Labour Party

Ministers will now be able to override the decisions of councils and locally elected officials.

“Chris Bishop has taken National’s general disdain for local councils up a notch and has assigned himself the role of Chief Council Despot,” Labour local government spokesperson Tangi Utikere said.

“Councils are elected by the people they serve and know their regions and cities best. Chris Bishop deciding that plans made by local communities are overly restrictive without any evidence to back it up is wrong.

“National’s Resource Management Act legislation is getting the whims of every minister taped to it – instead of protecting natural and urban environments and delivering better outcomes, the hodge podge law is giving Chris Bishop a free pass to do whatever he likes.

“New Zealand is not a sandpit for Chris Bishop to play in.

“We had a bipartisan agreement on Medium Density Residential Standards which National backed out of. They shafted councils on water, pulled out of RMA reform that was already underway to fix intensification, and used their fast-track law to override much of what local communities want.

“National has long displayed a thinly veiled disdain for local Government, offending regional and local councils at every turn, it’s not just rude, it’s poor politics. There is absolutely nothing heroic about this,” Tangi Utikere said.

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MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI: Greystone Housing Impact Investors LP Announces Regular Quarterly Cash Distribution and Listing For Sale of Vantage at Fair Oaks

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

OMAHA, Neb., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Greystone Housing Impact Investors LP (NYSE: GHI) (the “Partnership”) announced that the Board of Managers of Greystone AF Manager LLC (“Greystone Manager”) declared a cash distribution to the Partnership’s Beneficial Unit Certificate (“BUC”) holders of $0.30 per BUC.

The cash distribution will be paid on July 31, 2025 to all BUC holders of record as of the close of trading on June 30, 2025. The BUCs will trade ex-distribution as of June 30, 2025.

Commenting on the Partnership’s quarterly distribution, Chief Executive Officer Ken Rogozinski stated, “Persistently high interest rates, coupled with higher capitalization rates, have combined to create a more muted environment for sales of certain high quality joint venture properties within our investment portfolio, particularly in Texas markets. As a result, we are reducing our quarterly distribution to appropriately align with the current operating environment. Our quarterly distribution equates to a 9.5% annualized distribution yield based on our net book value as of March 31, 2025, which we believe is attractive in the current operating environment.”

Greystone Manager is the general partner of America First Capital Associates Limited Partnership Two, the Partnership’s general partner. Distributions to the Partnership’s BUC holders, including regular and any supplemental distributions, are determined by Greystone Manager based on a disciplined evaluation of the Partnership’s current and anticipated operating results, financial condition and other factors it deems relevant. Greystone Manager continually evaluates the factors that go into BUC holder distribution decisions, consistent with the long-term best interests of the BUC holders and the Partnership.

The Partnership also announced that Vantage at Fair Oaks, a 288-unit market rate multifamily property located in Boerne, TX (the “Property”), was publicly listed for sale by Institutional Property Advisors Texas at the direction of the Property-owning entity’s managing member. The Partnership’s non-controlling investment in the Property was originated in September 2021 and the Partnership contributed equity totaling $12.0 million to date. Construction of the Property was completed in May 2023. Consistent with past Vantage property sales, the managing member controls the listing and sales process under the terms of the Property-owning entity’s operating agreement, with the Partnership entitled to certain net proceeds upon the successful completion of the sale of the Property.

About Greystone Housing Impact Investors LP

Greystone Housing Impact Investors LP was formed in 1998 under the Delaware Revised Uniform Limited Partnership Act for the primary purpose of acquiring, holding, selling and otherwise dealing with a portfolio of mortgage revenue bonds which have been issued to provide construction and/or permanent financing for affordable multifamily, seniors and student housing properties. The Partnership is pursuing a business strategy of acquiring additional mortgage revenue bonds and other investments on a leveraged basis. The Partnership expects and believes the interest earned on these mortgage revenue bonds is excludable from gross income for federal income tax purposes. The Partnership seeks to achieve its investment growth strategy by investing in additional mortgage revenue bonds and other investments as permitted by its Second Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement, dated December 5, 2022, (the “Partnership Agreement”), taking advantage of attractive financing structures available in the securities market, and entering into interest rate risk management instruments. Greystone Housing Impact Investors LP press releases are available at www.ghiinvestors.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

Certain statements in this press release are intended to be covered by the safe harbor for “forward-looking statements” provided by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by use of statements that include, but are not limited to, phrases such as “believe,” “expect,” “future,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “foresee,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “estimates,” “potential,” “continue,” or other similar words or phrases. Similarly, statements that describe objectives, plans, or goals also are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and are generally beyond the control of the Partnership. The Partnership cautions readers that a number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in, implied, or projected by such forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: defaults on the mortgage loans securing our mortgage revenue bonds and governmental issuer loans; the competitive environment in which the Partnership operates; risks associated with investing in multifamily, student, senior citizen residential properties and commercial properties; general economic, geopolitical, and financial conditions, including the current and future impact of changing interest rates, inflation, and international conflicts (including the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas war) on business operations, employment, and financial conditions; uncertain conditions within the domestic and international macroeconomic environment, including monetary and fiscal policy and conditions in the investment, credit, interest rate, and derivatives markets; adverse reactions in U.S. financial markets related to actions of foreign central banks or the economic performance of foreign economies, including in particular China, Japan, the European Union, and the United Kingdom; the general condition of the real estate markets in the regions in which the Partnership operates, which may be unfavorably impacted by pressures in the commercial real estate sector, incrementally higher unemployment rates, persistent elevated inflation levels, and other factors; changes in interest rates and credit spreads, as well as the success of any hedging strategies the Partnership may undertake in relation to such changes, and the effect such changes may have on the relative spreads between the yield on investments and cost of financing; the aggregate effect of elevated inflation levels over the past several years, spurred by multiple factors including expansionary monetary and fiscal policy, higher commodity prices, a tight labor market, and low residential vacancy rates, which may result in continued elevated interest rate levels and increased market volatility; the Partnership’s ability to access debt and equity capital to finance its assets; current maturities of the Partnership’s financing arrangements and the Partnership’s ability to renew or refinance such financing arrangements; local, regional, national and international economic and credit market conditions; recapture of previously issued Low Income Housing Tax Credits in accordance with Section 42 of the Internal Revenue Code; geographic concentration of properties related to investments held by the Partnership; changes in the U.S. corporate tax code and other government regulations affecting the Partnership’s business; and the other risks detailed in the Partnership’s SEC filings (including but not limited to, the Partnership’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and Current Reports on Form 8-K). Readers are urged to consider these factors carefully in evaluating the forward-looking statements.

If any of these risks or uncertainties materializes or if any of the assumptions underlying such forward-looking statements proves to be incorrect, the developments and future events concerning the Partnership set forth in this press release may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these statements, which speak only as of the date of this document. We anticipate that subsequent events and developments will cause our expectations and beliefs to change. The Partnership assumes no obligation to update such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this document or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, unless obligated to do so under the federal securities laws.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Karen Marotta
Greystone
212-896-9149
Karen.Marotta@greyco.com

INVESTOR CONTACT:

Andy Grier
Senior Vice President
402-952-1235

The MIL Network –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI: Greystone Housing Impact Investors LP Announces Regular Quarterly Cash Distribution and Listing For Sale of Vantage at Fair Oaks

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

OMAHA, Neb., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Greystone Housing Impact Investors LP (NYSE: GHI) (the “Partnership”) announced that the Board of Managers of Greystone AF Manager LLC (“Greystone Manager”) declared a cash distribution to the Partnership’s Beneficial Unit Certificate (“BUC”) holders of $0.30 per BUC.

The cash distribution will be paid on July 31, 2025 to all BUC holders of record as of the close of trading on June 30, 2025. The BUCs will trade ex-distribution as of June 30, 2025.

Commenting on the Partnership’s quarterly distribution, Chief Executive Officer Ken Rogozinski stated, “Persistently high interest rates, coupled with higher capitalization rates, have combined to create a more muted environment for sales of certain high quality joint venture properties within our investment portfolio, particularly in Texas markets. As a result, we are reducing our quarterly distribution to appropriately align with the current operating environment. Our quarterly distribution equates to a 9.5% annualized distribution yield based on our net book value as of March 31, 2025, which we believe is attractive in the current operating environment.”

Greystone Manager is the general partner of America First Capital Associates Limited Partnership Two, the Partnership’s general partner. Distributions to the Partnership’s BUC holders, including regular and any supplemental distributions, are determined by Greystone Manager based on a disciplined evaluation of the Partnership’s current and anticipated operating results, financial condition and other factors it deems relevant. Greystone Manager continually evaluates the factors that go into BUC holder distribution decisions, consistent with the long-term best interests of the BUC holders and the Partnership.

The Partnership also announced that Vantage at Fair Oaks, a 288-unit market rate multifamily property located in Boerne, TX (the “Property”), was publicly listed for sale by Institutional Property Advisors Texas at the direction of the Property-owning entity’s managing member. The Partnership’s non-controlling investment in the Property was originated in September 2021 and the Partnership contributed equity totaling $12.0 million to date. Construction of the Property was completed in May 2023. Consistent with past Vantage property sales, the managing member controls the listing and sales process under the terms of the Property-owning entity’s operating agreement, with the Partnership entitled to certain net proceeds upon the successful completion of the sale of the Property.

About Greystone Housing Impact Investors LP

Greystone Housing Impact Investors LP was formed in 1998 under the Delaware Revised Uniform Limited Partnership Act for the primary purpose of acquiring, holding, selling and otherwise dealing with a portfolio of mortgage revenue bonds which have been issued to provide construction and/or permanent financing for affordable multifamily, seniors and student housing properties. The Partnership is pursuing a business strategy of acquiring additional mortgage revenue bonds and other investments on a leveraged basis. The Partnership expects and believes the interest earned on these mortgage revenue bonds is excludable from gross income for federal income tax purposes. The Partnership seeks to achieve its investment growth strategy by investing in additional mortgage revenue bonds and other investments as permitted by its Second Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement, dated December 5, 2022, (the “Partnership Agreement”), taking advantage of attractive financing structures available in the securities market, and entering into interest rate risk management instruments. Greystone Housing Impact Investors LP press releases are available at www.ghiinvestors.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

Certain statements in this press release are intended to be covered by the safe harbor for “forward-looking statements” provided by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by use of statements that include, but are not limited to, phrases such as “believe,” “expect,” “future,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “foresee,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “estimates,” “potential,” “continue,” or other similar words or phrases. Similarly, statements that describe objectives, plans, or goals also are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and are generally beyond the control of the Partnership. The Partnership cautions readers that a number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in, implied, or projected by such forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: defaults on the mortgage loans securing our mortgage revenue bonds and governmental issuer loans; the competitive environment in which the Partnership operates; risks associated with investing in multifamily, student, senior citizen residential properties and commercial properties; general economic, geopolitical, and financial conditions, including the current and future impact of changing interest rates, inflation, and international conflicts (including the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas war) on business operations, employment, and financial conditions; uncertain conditions within the domestic and international macroeconomic environment, including monetary and fiscal policy and conditions in the investment, credit, interest rate, and derivatives markets; adverse reactions in U.S. financial markets related to actions of foreign central banks or the economic performance of foreign economies, including in particular China, Japan, the European Union, and the United Kingdom; the general condition of the real estate markets in the regions in which the Partnership operates, which may be unfavorably impacted by pressures in the commercial real estate sector, incrementally higher unemployment rates, persistent elevated inflation levels, and other factors; changes in interest rates and credit spreads, as well as the success of any hedging strategies the Partnership may undertake in relation to such changes, and the effect such changes may have on the relative spreads between the yield on investments and cost of financing; the aggregate effect of elevated inflation levels over the past several years, spurred by multiple factors including expansionary monetary and fiscal policy, higher commodity prices, a tight labor market, and low residential vacancy rates, which may result in continued elevated interest rate levels and increased market volatility; the Partnership’s ability to access debt and equity capital to finance its assets; current maturities of the Partnership’s financing arrangements and the Partnership’s ability to renew or refinance such financing arrangements; local, regional, national and international economic and credit market conditions; recapture of previously issued Low Income Housing Tax Credits in accordance with Section 42 of the Internal Revenue Code; geographic concentration of properties related to investments held by the Partnership; changes in the U.S. corporate tax code and other government regulations affecting the Partnership’s business; and the other risks detailed in the Partnership’s SEC filings (including but not limited to, the Partnership’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and Current Reports on Form 8-K). Readers are urged to consider these factors carefully in evaluating the forward-looking statements.

If any of these risks or uncertainties materializes or if any of the assumptions underlying such forward-looking statements proves to be incorrect, the developments and future events concerning the Partnership set forth in this press release may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these statements, which speak only as of the date of this document. We anticipate that subsequent events and developments will cause our expectations and beliefs to change. The Partnership assumes no obligation to update such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this document or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, unless obligated to do so under the federal securities laws.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Karen Marotta
Greystone
212-896-9149
Karen.Marotta@greyco.com

INVESTOR CONTACT:

Andy Grier
Senior Vice President
402-952-1235

The MIL Network –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI: Silvaco to Host a Tech Talk on the Diffusion of Innovation
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SANTA CLARA, Calif., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Silvaco Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SVCO, “Silvaco”), a provider of TCAD, EDA software, and SIP solutions that enable semiconductor design and digital twin modeling through AI software, today announced it will host a tech talk exploring “The Diffusion of Innovation: Investing in the Ecosystem Expansion”.

This session is intended to provide investors and analysts with an in-depth understanding of how Silvaco is expanding the ecosystem for its innovative products, including the Fab Technology Co-Optimization™ (FTCO) solution. There will also be an opportunity for Q&A with management.

Event Details:
- Event Title: “The Diffusion of Innovation: Investing in the Ecosystem Expansion”
- Date/Time: Wednesday, June 25, 2025 at 10:00 AM Eastern Time
- Presenter: Ian Chan, Chief Revenue Officer
A live webcast, as well as a replay, of the event will be available on the company’s investor relations website at https://investors.silvaco.com/.

About Silvaco Group, Inc.
Silvaco is a provider of TCAD, EDA software, and SIP solutions that enable semiconductor design and digital twin modeling through AI software and innovation. Silvaco’s solutions are used for semiconductor and photonics processes, devices, and systems development across display, power devices, automotive, memory, high performance compute, foundries, photonics, internet of things, and 5G/6G mobile markets for complex SoC design. Silvaco is headquartered in Santa Clara, California, and has a global presence with offices located in North America, Europe, Brazil, China, Japan, Korea, Singapore, and Taiwan. Learn more at silvaco.com.

Contacts
Media Relations:
Tiffany Behany, press@silvaco.com

Investor Relations:
Greg McNiff, investors@silvaco.com

The MIL Network –
June 18, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Solomon Islanders safe but unable to leave Israel amid war on Iran

RNZ Pacific

The Solomon Islands Foreign Ministry says five people who completed agriculture training in Israel are safe but unable to come home amid the ongoing war between Israel and Iran.

The ministry said in a statement that the Solomon Islands Embassy in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, was closely monitoring the situation and maintaining regular contact with the students.

Ambassador Cornelius Walegerea said that given the volatile nature of the current situation, the safety of their citizens in Israel — particularly the students — remained their top priority.

“Once the airport reopens and it is deemed safe for them to travel, the students will be able to return home.”

The five Solomon Islands students have undertaken agricultural training at the Arava International Centre for Agriculture in Israel since September 2024.

The students completed their training on June 5 and were scheduled to return home on June 17.

The students have been advised to strictly follow instructions issued by local authorities and to continue observing all precautionary safety measures.

Ministry updates
The ministry will continue to provide updates as the situation develops.

Its travel advisory, issued the day Israel attacked Iran last Friday, said the ministry “wishes to advise all citizens not to travel to Israel and the region”.

Citizens studying in Israel were told they “should now make every effort to leave Israel”.

Meanwhile, a friend of a New Zealander stuck in Iran said the NZ government needed to help provide safe passage, and that the advice so far had been “vague and lacking any substance whatsover”.

The woman told RNZ the advice from MFAT until yesterday had been to “stay put”, before an evacuation notice was issued.

MFAT declined interview
MFAT declined an interview, but told RNZ it had heard from a small number of New Zealanders seeking advice about how to depart from Iran and Israel.

It would not provide any further detail regarding those individuals.

MFAT said the airspace was currently closed over both countries, which would likely continue.

The agency understood departure via land border crossings had been taking place, but that carried risks and New Zealanders “should only do so if they feel it is safe”.

Meanwhile, the NZ government said visitors from war zones in the Middle East could stay in New Zealand until it was safe for them to return home.

This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Chair’s Summary
Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

The Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) gathered in Kananaskis, Alberta, from June 15-17, 2025, with the objective of building stronger economies by making communities safer and the world more secure, promoting energy security and accelerating the digital transition, as well as fostering partnerships of the future.

Five decades after its founding in 1975, the G7 continues to demonstrate its value as a platform for advanced economies to coordinate financial and economic policy, address issues of peace and security, and cooperate with international partners in response to global challenges.

G7 Leaders focused on economic developments. In a context of rising market volatility and shocks to international trade, as well as longer-term trends toward fragmentation and global imbalances, they discussed the need for greater economic and financial stability, technological innovation, and an open and predictable trading regime to drive investment and growth. They considered ways to collaborate on global trade to boost productivity and grow their economies, emphasizing energy security and the digital transition. They acknowledged that both are underpinned by secure and responsible critical mineral supply chains and that more collaboration is required, within and beyond the G7. Leaders undertook to safeguard their economies from unfair non-market policies and practices that distort markets and drive overcapacity in ways that are harmful to workers and businesses. This includes de-risking through diversification and reduction of critical dependencies. Leaders welcomed the new Canada-led G7 initiative – the Critical Minerals Production Alliance – working with trusted international partners to guarantee supply for advanced manufacturing and defence.

G7 Leaders expressed support for President Trump’s efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. They recognized that Ukraine has committed to an unconditional ceasefire, and they agreed that Russia must do the same. G7 Leaders are resolute in exploring all options to maximize pressure on Russia, including financial sanctions. The G7 met with President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Secretary General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Mark Rutte to discuss their support for a strong and sovereign Ukraine, including budgetary defence and recovery and reconstruction support.

G7 Leaders reiterated their commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East. They exchanged on the evolving situation, following Hamas’s terrorist attacks against Israel on October 7, 2023, and the active conflict between Israel and Iran. Leaders discussed the importance of unhindered humanitarian aid to Gaza, the release of all hostages and an immediate and permanent ceasefire. Leaders also talked about the need for a negotiated political solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that achieves lasting peace. Leaders affirmed Israel’s right to defend itself, and were clear that Iran can never have a nuclear weapon. They underlined the importance of protecting civilians. They expressed their readiness to coordinate to safeguard the stability of international energy markets. They urged that the resolution of this crisis leads to a broader de-escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, including a ceasefire in Gaza. G7 Leaders released a statement on recent developments between Israel and Iran.

Leaders highlighted the importance of a free, open, prosperous and secure Indo-Pacific, based on the rule of law, and discussed growing economic cooperation with the region. They stressed the importance of constructive and stable relations with China, while calling on China to refrain from market distortions and harmful overcapacity, tackle global challenges and promote international peace and security. Leaders discussed their ongoing serious concerns about China’s destabilizing activities in the East and South China Seas and the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. They expressed concern about DPRK’s nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs and the need to jointly address DPRK cryptocurrency thefts fueling these programs. The need to resolve the abductions issue was also raised. Leaders acknowledged the links between crisis theatres in Ukraine, the Middle East and Indo-Pacific. Leaders discussed other instances of crisis and conflict, including in Africa and Haiti.

The G7 Leaders underscored their resolve to ensure the safety and security of communities. They condemned foreign interference, underlining the unacceptable threat of transnational repression to rights and freedoms, national security and state sovereignty. Leaders highlighted the importance of ongoing collaboration to promote border security and counter migrant smuggling and illicit synthetic drug trafficking, noting recent successes. They stressed the need to work with countries of origin and transit countries. Leaders discussed the impacts of increasingly extreme weather events around the world. They highlighted the need for more international collaboration to prevent, fight and respond to wildfires, which are destroying homes and ecosystems, and driving pollution and emissions.

The G7 welcomed participation in the Summit by the President of South Africa, Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, President of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, President of the Republic Korea, Lee Jae-myung, Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, and Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese, as well as UN Secretary General, António Guterres, and President of the World Bank, Ajaypal Singh Banga. Together, they identified ways to collaborate on energy security in a changing world, with a focus on advancing technology and innovation, diversifying and strengthening critical mineral supply chains, building infrastructure, and mobilizing investment. They discussed just energy transitions as well as sustainable and innovative solutions to boost energy access and affordability, while mitigating the impact on climate and the environment. They talked about the consequences of growing conflicts for shared prosperity, including energy security, and the need to work towards a shared peace.

Leaders and guests had a productive discussion on the importance of building coalitions with reliable partners – existing and new – that include the private sector, development finance institutions and multilateral development banks, to drive inclusive economic growth and advance sustainable development. The upcoming United Nations’ Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development was raised as an opportunity to continue these discussions, including on private capital mobilization.

G7 Leaders agreed to collaborate with partners on concrete outcomes that deliver for everyone. To this end, they agreed to six joint statements. Their commitments included:
- Securing high-standard critical mineral supply chains that power the economies of the future.
- Driving secure, responsible and trustworthy AI adoption across public and private sectors, powering AI now and into the future, and closing digital divides.
- Boosting cooperation to unlock the full potential of quantum technology to grow economies, solve global challenges and keep communities secure.
- Mounting a multilateral effort to better prevent, fight and recover from wildfires, which are on the rise around the world.
- Protecting the rights of everyone in society, and the fundamental principle of state sovereignty, by continuing to combat foreign interference, with a focus on transnational repression.
- Countering migrant smuggling by dismantling transnational organized crime groups.
G7 Leaders welcomed the endorsement by many outreach partners of the Critical Minerals Action Plan and the Kananaskis Wildfire Charter.

Discussions at the Kananaskis Summit were informed by the recommendations of the G7 Gender Equality Advisory Council (GEAC), which stressed the social and economic benefits of gender equality, and of all G7 engagement groups.

The G7 remains committed to working with domestic and international stakeholders and partners, including local governments, Indigenous Peoples, civil society, industry and international organizations, to advance shared priorities.

The G7 will continue its work under Canada’s presidency throughout 2025, and looks forward to France’s leadership in 2026.

MIL OSI Canada News –
June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: New York ETO promotes biotechnology and academic ties with Boston (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

New York ETO promotes biotechnology and academic ties with Boston
At the June 15 (Boston time) welcome dinner for the Hong Kong delegation at BIO 2025, Ms Ho highlighted Hong Kong’s status as a global hub for biotech innovation and fundraising. She also noted Hong Kong’s strong presence at BIO 2025, showcasing the depth and diversity of the city’s biotechnology sector, including pharmaceuticals, immunotherapies, gene editing, diagnostics and stem cell technologies.

The Hong Kong delegation included representatives from the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation and its delegation of 16 leading biotech portfolio companies, the medical faculties of the University of Hong Kong and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, as well as representatives from the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises, Invest Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council. At the Hong Kong Pavilion, they showcased the city’s life and health sciences capabilities, aiming to attract global enterprises, talent, and investment, and reinforcing Hong Kong’s status as a global biotech hub.

At the “Hong Kong x Boston Biotech Disrupt Night” on June 16 (Boston time) hosted by Invest Hong Kong, Ms Ho spoke on Hong Kong’s strategic advantages in biotechnology, citing world-class infrastructure, strong intellectual property protection, top-tier universities, and a vibrant start-up ecosystem. She also emphasised government support, funding and initiatives such as InnoLife Healthtech Hub and the New Industrialisation Acceleration Scheme. The event, attended by over 140 biotech industry representatives and investors, also featured a panel discussion featuring Hong Kong and Boston’s biotech leaders where they had an insightful exchange on the potential of Boston biotech companies in leveraging Hong Kong for their Asian market expansion.

“Hong Kong offers a nurturing environment for life sciences—combining policy support, research excellence, and regulatory certainty. As the world’s second-largest fundraising hub for biotech IPOs, we also offer deep access to capital and a highly international talent pool. With our world-class infrastructure, common law system, robust IP protections, and proximity to Mainland China and Asia, we serve as a gateway and global launchpad for biotech companies aiming to scale and internationalise”, she said.

While in Boston, Ms Ho also met with representatives of the academia to explore areas of mutual interests and promoted Hong Kong’s various talent admission schemes and the city’s commitment to become an international education and research hub. Her meetings included discussions with Visiting Fellow of Practice at Harvard University’s Fairbank Center for Chinese Studies Mr Mitchell Presnick; and representatives from the University of Massachusetts Boston, including the Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Mr Joseph B. Berger; the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, Ms Karen Ferrer-Muñiz; and the Vice Provost of Research and Strategic Initiatives, Mr Bala Sundaram. She also attended a reception hosted by the Mayor of Boston Ms Michelle Wu for key international biotech leaders and stakeholders.
Issued at HKT 7:40

NNNN

CategoriesMIL-OSI

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI: Bitdeer Announces Proposed Private Placement of US$300.0 Million of Convertible Senior Notes

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SINGAPORE, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitdeer Technologies Group (Nasdaq: BTDR) (“Bitdeer” or the “Company”), a world-leading technology company for Bitcoin mining, today announced that it intends to offer, subject to market conditions and other factors, US$300.0 million principal amount of Convertible Senior Notes due 2031 (the “notes”) in a private placement (the “offering”) to persons reasonably believed to be qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). The Company also intends to grant the initial purchasers of the notes an option to purchase, for settlement within a 13-day period beginning on, and including, the date on which the notes are first issued, up to an additional US$45.0 million principal amount of notes.

The notes will be general senior unsecured obligations of the Company and will accrue interest payable semiannually in arrears. Upon conversion, the Company will pay or deliver, as the case may be, cash, Class A ordinary shares par value US$0.0000001 per share, of the Company (the “Class A ordinary shares”) or a combination of cash and Class A ordinary shares, at its election. The interest rate, initial conversion rate, repurchase or redemption rights and certain other terms of the notes will be determined at the time of pricing of the offering.

Use of Proceeds

The Company intends to use a portion of the net proceeds from the offering to pay the cost of the zero-strike call option transaction and to pay the cash consideration for the concurrent note exchange transactions, each as described below. The Company intends to use the remaining net proceeds from the offering for datacenter expansion, ASIC based mining rig development and manufacture, as well as working capital and other general corporate purposes. If the initial purchasers exercise their option to purchase additional notes, the Company expects to use the net proceeds from the sale of the additional notes for datacenter expansion, ASIC based mining rig development and manufacture, as well as working capital and other general corporate purposes as described above.

Zero-Strike Call Option Transaction

In connection with the pricing of the notes, the Company intends to enter into a privately negotiated zero-strike call option transaction with one of the initial purchasers or its affiliate (the “option counterparty”) and, having an expiration date that is scheduled to occur shortly after the maturity date of the notes. Pursuant to the zero-strike call option transaction, the Company would pay a premium for the right to receive, without further payment, a specified number of Class A ordinary shares (subject to customary adjustment), with delivery thereof by the option counterparty at expiry, subject to early settlement of the zero-strike call option transaction in whole or in part at the option counterparty’s discretion. In the case of settlement at expiration or upon any early settlement, the option counterparty would deliver to the Company the number of Class A ordinary shares underlying the zero-strike call option transaction or the portion thereof being settled early. The zero-strike call option transaction is intended to facilitate privately negotiated derivative transactions with respect to the Class A ordinary shares between the option counterparty (or its affiliate) and certain investors in the notes by which those investors will be able to hedge their investment in the notes. Those activities, which are expected to occur concurrently with or shortly after the pricing of the offering, could increase (or reduce the size of any decrease in) the market price of the Class A ordinary shares and/or the notes at that time.

The option counterparty (or its affiliate) may modify its hedge positions by entering into or unwinding derivative transactions with respect to the Class A ordinary shares and/or purchasing or selling Class A ordinary shares or other securities of the Company in secondary market transactions at any time following the pricing of the notes and shortly before or after the expiry or early settlement of the zero-strike call option transaction, and, the Company has been advised that the option counterparty may unwind its derivative transactions and/or purchase or sell the Class A ordinary shares in connection with the expiry of the zero-strike call option transaction or any early settlement of the zero-strike call option transaction at the option counterparty’s discretion, including any early settlement relating to any conversion, repurchase or redemption of the notes. Those activities could also increase (or reduce the size of any decrease in) or decrease (or reduce the size of any increase in) the market price of the Class A ordinary shares and/or the notes.

If the zero-strike call option transaction fails to become effective, whether or not the offering is completed, the option counterparty may unwind its hedge positions with respect to the Class A ordinary shares, which could adversely affect the market price of the Class A ordinary shares and, if the notes have been issued, the market price of the notes.

Concurrent Note Exchange Transaction

Concurrently with the pricing of the notes in the offering, the Company expects to enter into one or more privately negotiated transactions with one or more holders of 8.50% convertible senior notes due 2029 (the “August 2029 notes”) to exchange for cash and Class A ordinary shares certain of its August 2029 notes on terms to be negotiated with each holder (each, a “note exchange transaction”). The terms of each note exchange transaction will depend on a variety of factors. No assurance can be given as to how much, if any, of the August 2029 notes will be exchanged or the terms on which they will be exchanged. This press release is not an offer to exchange the August 2029 notes, and the offering of the notes is not contingent upon the exchange of the August 2029 notes.

In connection with any note exchange transaction, the Company expects that holders of the August 2029 notes who agree to have their August 2029 notes exchanged and who have hedged their equity price risk with respect to such notes (the “hedged holders”) will unwind all or part of their hedge positions by buying the Class A ordinary shares and/or entering into or unwinding various derivative transactions with respect to the Class A ordinary shares. The amount of the Class A ordinary shares to be purchased by the hedged holders or in connection with such derivative transactions may be substantial in relation to the historical average daily trading volume of the Class A ordinary shares. This activity by the hedged holders could increase (or reduce the size of any decrease in) the market price of the Class A ordinary shares, including concurrently with the pricing of the notes. The Company cannot predict the magnitude of such market activity or the overall effect it will have on the price of the notes or the Class A ordinary shares.

The notes and any Class A ordinary shares issuable upon conversion of the notes have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act, any state securities laws or the securities laws of any other jurisdiction, and unless so registered, may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act and other applicable securities laws.

This press release is neither an offer to sell nor a solicitation of an offer to buy any of these securities nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification thereof under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

About Bitdeer Technologies Group

Bitdeer is a world-leading technology company for Bitcoin mining. Bitdeer is committed to providing comprehensive Bitcoin mining solutions for its customers. The Company handles complex processes involved in computing such as equipment procurement, transport logistics, datacenter design and construction, equipment management, and daily operations. The Company also offers advanced cloud capabilities to customers with high demand for artificial intelligence. Headquartered in Singapore, Bitdeer has deployed datacenters in the United States, Norway, and Bhutan.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements in this press release about future expectations, plans, and prospects, as well as any other statements regarding matters that are not historical facts, may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words “anticipate,” “look forward to,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Such forward-looking statements include, among others, statements relating to Bitdeer’s expectations regarding the proposed terms and the completion, timing and size of the proposed offering, the note exchange transactions and the zero-strike call option transaction, the expected use of proceeds from the sale of the notes and potential impact of the foregoing or related transactions on the market price of the Class A ordinary shares or the trading price of the notes. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors, including risks and uncertainties associated with market conditions, whether Bitdeer will offer the notes, enter into the note exchange transactions and the zero-strike call option transaction or be able to consummate the proposed offering, the note exchange transactions and the zero-strike call option transaction at the anticipated size or on the anticipated terms, or at all, and the satisfaction of closing conditions related to the proposed offering and the note exchange transactions, as well as discussions of potential risks, uncertainties and other factors discussed in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in Bitdeer’s annual report on Form 20-F, as well as those discussed in Bitdeer’s subsequent filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as there are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements, many of which are beyond Bitdeer’s control. Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date hereof. Bitdeer specifically disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether due to new information, future events, or otherwise. Readers should not rely upon the information on this page as current or accurate after its publication date.

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

Investor Relations
Orange Group
Yujia Zhai
bitdeerir@orangegroupadvisors.com

Public Relations
BlocksBridge Consulting
Nishant Sharma
bitdeer@blocksbridge.com

The MIL Network –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senate Judiciary Democrats Call On Secretary Noem To Testify Before The Committee

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
June 17, 2025
Durbin, SJC Dems cite alarming conduct such as the unnecessary use of force by masked ICE agents, family separations, targeting of workers, unjustified invocation of wartime powers, defiance of court orders, ignoring congressional oversight, and deployment of National Guard to California
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, led all Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats in calling on Chairman Grassley to schedule Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem for testimony before the committee.
In a letter to Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA), the Senators write: “We request that you immediately convene a Judiciary Committee oversight hearing with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to discuss the Department of Homeland Security’s escalating use of alarming immigration enforcement practices.”
The Senators cited recent alarming conduct as part of the Trump Administration’s anti-immigrant agenda, writing: “Federal agents’ conduct during the incident last week with Senator Padilla has become all too common. We increasingly are seeing masked agents, acting with unnecessary force and failing to identify themselves, arresting noncitizens in raids that terrify communities and needlessly separate families. The treatment of Senator Padilla is the latest in a string of attacks on our constitutional order. Earlier this year, President Trump invoked the Alien Enemies Act, a wartime authority that was last used during World War II to detain Japanese, Italian, and German immigrants. He has sent nearly 300 people to a dangerous and brutal prison in El Salvador without due process. He has consistently failed to comply with court orders. In recent days, he deployed the National Guard to California in response to protests of his Administration’s mass deportations over the objections of state officials.”
The Senators continued by criticizing the Trump Administration’s hypocrisy for abandoning its promise to hold violent criminals accountable, writing: “We must ensure violent criminals are held accountable. The Administration, however, has abandoned its commitment to arresting and deporting dangerous immigrants, sweeping up hardworking, longstanding members of our communities in disorganized and dangerous raids in a misguided effort to meet arrest quotas. One Administration official reports that White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller admonished U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials not to focus deportation efforts on criminals.”
The Senate Judiciary Committee has a constitutional responsibility to conduct oversight of Executive Branch agencies under its jurisdiction, regardless of the party in charge of the White House or Congress. During the Biden Administration, then-Chair Durbin held a DHS oversight hearing months into then-Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas’ tenure.
The Senators then admonished the Trump Administration for neglecting to comply with Congressional oversight, writing: “This Administration, however, has dismissed Congress’s critical role in ‘seek[ing] information to help inform Members as they perform their Constitutional duty to legislate and fix real problems for the American people.’ Ranking Member Durbin alone has eight outstanding letters and briefing requests that have gone unanswered by DHS. To quote you once more, Mr. Chairman, ‘oversight brings transparency, and transparency brings accountability. And, the opposite is true. Shutting down oversight requests doesn’t drain the swamp …. It floods the swamp.’”
The Senators concluded by reiterating the necessity for a DHS oversight hearing, writing: “The President should not be allowed to bypass constitutional principles like due process, separation of powers, and federalism. Senator Padilla’s mistreatment by federal agents should be a warning to us all. We urge you to quickly schedule a hearing to ensure we have an opportunity to question Secretary Noem regarding Committee members’ many unanswered requests for information from DHS, and the cruel and un-American steps this Administration has taken to carry out its mass deportation agenda.”
In addition to Durbin, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Chris Coons (D-DE), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Adam Schiff (D-CA).
For a full PDF of the letter to Chairman Grassley, click here.
-30-

MIL OSI USA News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Nutrition replacements fully funded for adults with Crohn’s disease who use them as their only source of nutrition

Source: PHARMAC

Pharmac is fully funding two brands of liquid nutrition replacements for adults with Crohn’s disease who use them as their only source of nutrition.

The nutrition replacements are Ensure Plus and Fortisip (200ml bottles, 1.5kcal/ml) and changes to funding will take place from 1 July 2025.

Adrienne Martin, Manager Pharmaceutical Funding says, “we are removing the additional cost on Ensure Plus and Fortisip so adults with Crohn’s disease, who use them as their only source of nutrition, can continue to access and benefit from fully funded treatment.”

Crohn’s is a type of inflammatory bowel disease. Some people with this condition use these nutrition replacements as their exclusive diet for a period of 4–12 weeks.

The goal of this exclusive diet is to rest the gut, to reduce inflammation and promote healing. This also may help manage symptoms and reduce the likelihood of needing surgery.

A different fully funded nutrition replacement was previously available for these people, but the supplier stopped making it.

“We are grateful to those who provided feedback to our proposal and shared it with their community. Having this additional information from clinicians and the community helps with our decisions.”

“Our role is to help people access the medicines and related products they need to improve their health. We estimate around 200 adults with Crohn’s disease will benefit from the funding each year,” says Martin

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arrests, assets restraints following Police operation targeting Greazy Dogs MC

Source: New Zealand Police

NZ Police have this week dealt a significant blow to the manufacture and supply of methamphetamine by the Greazy Dogs MC in western Bay of Plenty this week, with the arrest of several members and associates of the gang, and the restraint of more than $1.5 million of assets.

On 17 – 18 June, Police carried out 35 search warrants at properties across Tauranga, including the Greazy Dogs MC pad. Those arrested as a result of these warrants include senior members of the Greazy Dog MC, including the national vice president and the sergeant at arms.

“The arrests and asset restraints this week mark the successful culmination of a National Organised Crime Group (NOCG) operation that began in late 2024,” says Detective Inspector Albie Alexander.

“This operation – Operation Kingtide – identified the Greazy Dogs MC as controlling the methamphetamine supply across the western Bay of Plenty, through local manufacture.”

Search warrants executed located firearms, ammunition, methamphetamine, chemicals and equipment used in the manufacture of methamphetamine, cannabis and approximately $25,000 in cash.

In addition, Police’s Asset Recovery Unit has restrained more than $1.5 million of assets to date, including two residential properties, two cars and three motorcycles.

Further search warrants are being carried out this week and more arrests and charges are likely.

“With the arrest of these senior gang members and the seizure of their equipment and assets, I’m confident we have dealt a significant blow to the Greazy Dogs’ methamphetamine operation, and the supply of methamphetamine in the western Bay of Plenty,” says Detective Inspector Alexander.

“Police will continue to focus on the enforcement and disruption of such criminal groups, who are dealing primarily in the sale and supply of methamphetamine into our most vulnerable communities.”

Bay of Plenty District Commander, Superintendent Tim Anderson, has welcomed the arrests of the Greazy Dogs MC members and associates, saying he has seen first-hand the immense harm that methamphetamine causes in communities in Bay of Plenty and across New Zealand.

“The Greazy Dogs MC, as with other gangs involved in the supply of methamphetamine in New Zealand, are in this for the money. They don’t care about the enormous damage the drug is doing to families in our communities, even though many of them are parents themselves. All they are interested in is how much money they can make for themselves and their associates.”

Working alongside the officers undertaking enforcement action this week has been the team from the Resilience to Organised Crime in Communities (ROCC) programme, which takes a multi-agency approach to help address the social conditions that feed the emergence or growth of organised crime, and the harms that flow from it.

Op Manawaroa (Resilience) has run alongside Operation Kingtide and is led by Bay of Plenty ROCC, with assistance from other ROCC regions including Eastern, Southern and Porirua.

“What this looks like in practice is officers and senior advisors from our ROCC team visiting homes after search warrants have been executed, looking to engage and support families and whānau of those arrested,” Superintendent Anderson.

“Our local ROCC team, with the support of other Police harm prevention work groups, local agencies, iwi and community partners, will continue to work with families and whānau of those affected. This is a long-term approach to prevention and in response to mitigating and preventing further harm and offending.”

Arrest and charge details to date:

25-year-old Tauranga man – charged with participating in an organised criminal group, supplying methamphetamine, offering to supply methamphetamine, and possession of methamphetamine

34-year-old Mt Maunganui man – charged with participating in an organised criminal group, supplying methamphetamine, offering to supply methamphetamine, and possession of methamphetamine for supply

34-year-old Papamoa man – charged with participating in an organised criminal group, supplying methamphetamine, offering to supply methamphetamine, and possession for supply of methamphetamine

33-year-old Mt Maunganui man – charged with participating in an organised criminal group, supplying methamphetamine, offering to supply methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine for supply, and conspiring to supply cocaine

37-year-old Tauranga man – charged with participating in an organised criminal group, supplying methamphetamine, offering to supply methamphetamine, and possession of methamphetamine for supply.

MEDIA ADVISORY:

Detective Inspector Albie Anderson and Superintendent Tim Anderson will be available to speak to media at Tauranga Police Station at 1pm today.
Media wishing to attend are asked to report to the front counter of the police station by 12.50pm.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Xi Jinping Calls on China, Central Asian Countries to Promote High-Quality Cooperation within Belt and Road Initiative

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

ASTANA, June 18 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday called on China and Central Asian countries to advance high-quality cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative and jointly move toward the goal of building a community with a shared future for China and Central Asia guided by the “China-Central Asian spirit.”

Xi Jinping made the statement in his keynote speech at the 2nd China-Central Asia Summit, which was chaired by Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The summit was also attended by Presidents Sadyr Japarov of Kyrgyzstan, Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov of Turkmenistan, and Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan.

Xi Jinping recalled that during the previous summit in Xi’an, China, two years ago, the leaders of the six countries jointly formulated the “Xi’an vision” for China-Central Asia cooperation. Over the past two years, he added, China and the Central Asian countries have deepened and given concrete content to cooperation within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, achieving progress in various areas of cooperation.

According to the Chinese leader, the framework of the China-Central Asia mechanism has basically been formed, the agreements of the first summit are being comprehensively implemented, the paths of cooperation are steadily expanding, and the blossoming flowers of friendship are becoming ever brighter.

Xi Jinping noted that through years of joint efforts, the six countries have formed a “China-Central Asian spirit” based on the principles of mutual respect, mutual trust, mutual benefit and mutual assistance, and advancing joint modernization through high-quality development.

As the Chinese President pointed out, the “China-Central Asian spirit” has set important guidelines for friendship and cooperation from generation to generation, and this spirit should be steadily maintained and continuously developed by the six countries.

In the context of accelerating changes unseen in a century, today’s world is entering a new period of global upheaval and transformation, Xi Jinping said, stressing that only unwavering adherence to the principles of honesty, fairness, mutual benefit and win-win will help safeguard world peace and achieve common development.

Xi Jinping called on the six countries to follow the “China-Central Asia spirit” and enhance cooperation with greater enthusiasm and pragmatism.

In this regard, he put forward a five-point proposal.

First, China and Central Asian countries should unswervingly adhere to the original aspiration for unity based on mutual trust and mutual support.

Second, China and Central Asian countries should optimize the framework for pragmatic, highly effective and deeply integrated cooperation.

Third, China and Central Asian countries should build a security architecture based on peace, tranquility and common interests. They should strengthen regional security governance, steadily deepen cooperation in law enforcement and security, jointly prevent and counter the spread of extremist ideology, resolutely combat the “three evil forces” (terrorism, separatism and extremism), and jointly safeguard peace and stability in the region.

Fourth, China and the Central Asian countries should strengthen the cultural ties of common thoughts and moral principles, mutual understanding and closeness between the peoples. China is ready to intensify cooperation with the Central Asian countries at the levels of legislative bodies, political parties, women’s and youth organizations, media and think tanks, conduct in-depth exchanges of public administration experience, open new cultural centers, university branches and “Lu Ban Workshops” in the Central Asian countries to train highly qualified personnel for these countries.

Fifth, China and Central Asian countries should uphold a fair, reasonable, equitable and orderly international order. They should jointly safeguard international fairness and justice, oppose hegemonism and power politics, and actively promote the construction of an equitable and orderly multipolar world and an inclusive economic globalization that benefits everyone.

In conclusion, the Chinese President noted that China is currently comprehensively promoting the building of a strong country and the great cause of national rejuvenation through Chinese-style modernization.

He stressed that regardless of changes in the international situation, China will unswervingly adhere to the policy of opening up to the outside world. China hopes to work with Central Asian countries to establish higher-quality cooperation and deepen the integration of interests, so as to achieve common prosperity and promote continuous new achievements in China-Central Asia cooperation, Xi Jinping concluded. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Changes to stalking Bill important step for women’s safety

Source: New Zealand Labour Party

Parliament today took an important step to improve women’s safety with the Government moving closer to Labour’s position on how stalking should be defined in law.

“Stalking should be a crime. It can make a victim feel extremely unsafe and insecure, and in some cases result in serious assault, or even death,” Labour police spokesperson Ginny Andersen said.

“The tragic murder of Farzana Yaqubi highlighted the urgent need for change. The Independent Police Conduct Authority found that more should have been done to protect her. We owe it to Farzana, and to every other person who has lived in fear, to ensure stalking is taken seriously.

“The Justice Committee has now reported back a Bill that would make stalking a standalone offence, with key changes that reflect the recommendations of women’s advocates and parts of my Member’s Bill.

“One important change is the threshold for what constitutes stalking. Originally the Government bill required three incidents within a year, something victims’ advocates warned was too high. It has now been amended to two acts over two years, more closely matching the definition Labour proposed in our Member’s Bill.

“This is a constructive step forward. It shows that when parties listen to experts and work collaboratively, we can make better laws that protect people.

“I will continue to work with advocates to strengthen protections for victims and ensure the law keeps pace with the realities of stalking and harassment,” Ginny Andersen said.

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MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: PM must stop changes further failing children

Source: New Zealand Labour Party

Today’s damning report on Oranga Tamariki shows Māori children are being left with little chance of success, or even survival, after their experiences in the state care system, and Minister for Children Karen Chhour is making it worse.

“This report is the first of its kind and reveals a disturbing and urgent problem which can no longer be ignored by the Prime Minister who has overseen dangerous changes to Oranga Tamariki during his term in government,” Labour children’s spokesperson Willow-Jean Prime said.

“The Government has cut early intervention, continued with botched bootcamps that have never worked, and taken away funding from community-run services that help children and whānau.

“Christopher Luxon has allowed an ACT Minister to recklessly erode the services that have been built up to support children.

“As well as repealing Section 7AA, Karen Chhour has removed a key target for placement of children with whanau, and removed the target for investment for services provided by Iwi organisations.

“The Government has taken away actions specifically put in place to address the significant disparities for Māori children in care.

“Christopher Luxon must step in and cancel boot camps and restore funding to frontline community providers before it’s too late,” Willow-Jean Prime said.

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MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Government is full of it on homelessness

Source: New Zealand Labour Party

The Government continues to deny its policies are contributing to homelessness in New Zealand, despite being told they are.

“Frontline housing providers have told Government Ministers that there are more people on the streets as a result of its policies,” Labour housing spokesperson Kieran McAnulty said.

“They are stopping people from accessing emergency housing, which is resulting in more people sleeping rough. Even victims of domestic violence are being denied, which providers have been raising for some time.

“Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka admitted in today’s hearing that he only acted on the scandal of victims of domestic violence being denied emergency housing after Labour raised it in Parliament.

“The Minister of Housing Chris Bishop continues to say the housing register is not an accurate reflection of need, yet he uses it to justify a budget that neglects housing.

“They’re denying there’s a growing number of homeless people while claiming they’re making a difference based on what they admit is inaccurate data. All the while dismissing frontline providers who all say it is an issue that is getting much worse.

“Housing is a human right, yet there are more people on the streets under National. The fact they won’t admit that shows they’re full of it,” Kieran McAnulty said.

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MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Quarterly current account deficit $5.5 billion – Stats NZ media and information release: Balance of payments and international investment position: March 2025 quarter
Quarterly current account deficit $5.5 billion – media release

18 June 2025

New Zealand’s seasonally adjusted current account deficit narrowed by $53 million to $5.5 billion in the March 2025 quarter, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

“The value of New Zealand goods exports increased in the March 2025 quarter. However, rising export values were partly offset by increases in goods imports,” international accounts spokesperson Viki Ward said.

“The March 2025 quarter current account deficit is very similar to the December 2024 quarter.”

The value of services New Zealand imported from the rest of the world increased, while the value of services exported decreased in the March 2025 quarter.

Visit our website to read this news story and information release and to download CSV files:

Quarterly current account deficit $5.5 billion

Balance of payments and international investment position: March 2025 quarter

CSV files for download
MIL OSI New Zealand News –
June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Solitude sees rare spider numbers increase

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date: 18 June 2025

A population of the rare and unusual spider, which lives in the “Crazy Paving Cave” in the Ōparara Valley on the South Island’s West Coast, is increasing and scientists think it is because the spiders have had a break from visitors.

The spiders had been monitored for a number of years, with a steadily declining population, when the decision was made to close the cave to visitors in 2022.

Since then, spider numbers have shown a steady increase from an average of eight found during monitoring in 2022 to 33 in 2025. Rangers have also seen signs of the spiders breeding.

Senior Ranger Scott Freeman says people unknowingly interupt the natural behaviour of the spiders with bright lights, vibration, sound, and the heat they bring into the cave.

“The cave has a low ceiling, and it’s quite small, so people get close to the spiders, which don’t like large creatures such as humans wandering round.”

Scott says, “We have proven in many parts of the country that when we remove or manage the threats, restore habitats or modify how we use or interact with nature, it comes back, and we can see that here with the spiders.”

It is thought that numbers of spiders may have peaked, and scientists are keen to see what happens in the next year before decisions about visitor access to the cave are made.

The spiders are relatively long lived, with baby spiders taking two to three years to mature. Most spiders complete their life cycle in a year.

New Zealand’s native species are unique and special. On average, 70% of our nature is found nowhere else in the world. 93% of New Zealand’s estimated 2000 spider species are only found here.

Nelson cave spiders evolved separately from the rest of the world for millions of years and are thought to be directly descended from the earliest true spiders. They may be the missing link between primitive and modern spiders.

These spiders live near cave entrances and mostly eat cave wētā, which they drop onto while attached to the cave roof by their web. They are also found in Golden Bay and were the first spider species to be protected under the Wildlife Act.

The other walks and experiences in the Ōparara and the adjacent Box Canyon Cave remain open for visitors.

Background information

Crazy Paving Cave gets its name from its floor of ancient, fragile, fine deep sediment which has dried out slowly, cracking and curling into what looks like large, distorted paving stones.

It’s a dry cave where the sediment has stayed in place unchanged for hundreds of years. It’s like a time capsule holding information about what life was present when water once washed into the cave.

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 18, 2025

MIL-OSI Australia: Changes to reserve allocations

Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

What are the changes?

From 7 December 2024, the Treasury Laws Amendment (Legacy Retirement Product Commutations and Reserves) Regulations 2024External Link (the Regulation) changes the way allocations from reserves count towards an individual’s contribution caps.

Before 7 December 2024, certain reserve allocations by a complying superannuation plan for an individual counted towards the individual’s concessional contributions cap. This could result in excess concessional contributions for the individual.

From 7 December 2024, the Regulation:

counts those allocations towards the individual’s non-concessional contributions cap instead of their concessional contributions cap
updates the drafting used to describe those allocations, and
excludes from the non-concessional contributions cap an additional class of reserve allocation (from a pension reserve), making allocations of that class effectively ‘uncapped’.

These changes are not limited to reserves associated with legacy pension products (although the changes may be applicable to such reserves).

See Other concessional and other non-concessional contributions for more information on when reserve allocations by Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) funds will need to be reported.

Reserve allocations before 7 December 2024

Before 7 December 2024, 2 classes of reserve allocation counted towards the concessional contributions cap:

A particular allocation of an assessable contribution.
Any other allocation (‘a capped allocation’) that did not fall within various specified exclusions.

In other words, for allocations other than assessable contributions (the first class mentioned above), a ‘catch-all’ mechanism counted towards the concessional contributions cap all allocations that did not fall within the specified exclusions (the second class mentioned above).

The exclusions (‘excluded allocations’) did not count towards the concessional contributions cap, with the result that they could be made without contribution cap taxation consequences for the member.

Capped allocations before 7 December 2024

An allocation was a capped allocation unless it was an excluded allocation. The excluded allocations were:

a certain type of rollover superannuation benefit
an amount of applicable fund earnings transferred from a foreign super fund included in the assessable income of the plan
a refund of excess capped fees and costs charged to a member
a ‘fair and reasonable allocation’, which could be made from any kind of reserve (subject to fund rules and regulatory requirements), being an allocation
- made to each member of the fund, or each member of a class of member
- for which the amount allocated was less than 5% of the value of the member’s interest at the time of allocation, and
- that would not have been assessable income of the fund if it were made as a contribution
the following types of pension reserve allocation
- an allocation to satisfy a pension liability
- an allocation on the commutation of an income stream, except as a result of the death of the primary beneficiary, to the recipient to commence another income stream as soon as practicable
- certain allocations on the commutation of an income stream as a result of the death of the beneficiary.

Reserve allocations from 7 December 2024

From 7 December 2024, the Regulation counts capped allocations towards the non-concessional contributions cap instead of the concessional contributions cap. The mechanism for counting allocations has not changed: a reserve allocation counts towards the non-concessional contributions cap it if does not fall within specified exclusions.

Each class of exclusion specified for the concessional contributions cap before 7 December 2024 has been specified for the non-concessional contributions cap from that date. This means types of allocations that fell within those exclusions before 7 December 2024 continue to be uncapped if made from that date. The Regulation makes no change to the treatment of allocations of certain assessable contributions, which continue to count towards the concessional contributions cap.

The drafting of the ‘fair and reasonable’ and ‘pension reserve’ exclusions in the Regulation has been updated. As a result, the exclusions do not mirror those specified for the concessional contributions cap word-for-word. One class of excluded allocation – ‘pension reserve allocation except as a result of death – after commutation to commence another income stream’ – is not explicitly specified as an exclusion for the purposes of the non-concessional contributions cap, because it falls within a new pension reserve exclusion discussed below (‘excluded cessation allocation’).

The table below lists these exclusions for the concessional contributions cap and their non-concessional contributions cap equivalents (legislative references are to the Income Tax Assessment (1997 Act) Regulations 2021 (ITAR (1997 Act) 2021).

Table: Excluded allocations before and from 7 December 2024
Class of excluded allocation	Exclusion from counting towards concessional contributions cap – before 7 December 2024 (repealed)	Exclusion from counting towards the non-concessional contributions cap – from 7 December 2024
Fair and reasonable allocation	Former subsection 291‑25.01(4)	Subsection 292-90.02(2)
Pension reserve allocation – to satisfy pension liability	Former paragraph 291‑25.01(5)(a)	Subsection 292-90.02(3)
Pension reserve allocation except as a result of death – after commutation to commence another income stream	Former paragraph 291‑25.01(5)(b)	Subsection 292-90.02(4)
Pension reserve allocation after death – to discharge pension reserve liabilities as a result of death	Former subparagraph 291‑25.01(5)(c)(i)	Subsection 292-90.02(5)
Pension reserve allocation after death – paid as lump-sum and death benefit	Former subparagraph 291‑25.01(5)(c)(ii)	Subsection 292-90.02(6)

Counting allocations towards the non-concessional contributions cap instead of the concessional contributions cap will affect the amount that can be allocated to some individuals without incurring contribution cap taxation consequences.

For example, some individuals have a nil non-concessional contributions cap. If a reserve allocation counts towards the individual’s non-concessional contributions cap in those circumstances, the amount of the allocation will exceed their non-concessional contributions cap.

Example: remediation payment allocations

A superannuation fund maintains an operational risk reserve, the purpose of which includes the remediation of amounts wrongly charged to member accounts.

As part of one such remediation exercise, amounts are allocated to a class of members in the fund on 1 January 2025 in a manner that does not satisfy:

the ‘fair and reasonable’ allocation exclusion, or
any other exclusion from the non-concessional contributions cap.

As the allocations were made for those members on or after 7 December 2024, they count towards the amount of the members’ non-concessional contributions for the 2024–25 financial year.

End of example

New class of excluded allocation from 7 December 2024

From 7 December 2024, the Regulation also excludes another broad class of pension reserve allocation for an individual. An allocation (an ‘excluded cessation allocation’) from a reserve of a complying superannuation plan for an individual is excluded if:

the reserve is a pension reserve of the plan
the reserve is used to discharge all or part of a liability of the plan to pay a superannuation income stream benefit from a superannuation income stream of which the individual is the recipient
the superannuation income stream is commuted or ceases
the commutation or cessation is not a result of the death of the primary beneficiary
the amount is allocated from the reserve for the individual as a result of the individual having been (before the commutation or cessation) the recipient of the superannuation income stream, and
where the reserve relates to more than one superannuation income stream, the allocation is fair and reasonable having regard to
- for each superannuation income stream that has not been commuted or ceased – the value of the interest that supports the superannuation income stream, and
- for each superannuation income stream that has been commuted or ceased – the value of the interest, that supported the superannuation income stream, immediately before the superannuation income stream was commuted or ceased.

Definition of pension reserve

From 7 December 2024, the Regulation provides that a reserve is a pension reserve of a complying superannuation plan at a particular time if the reserve is used at that time solely for the purpose (the ‘pension liability purpose’) of enabling the plan to discharge all or part of its pension liabilities (contingent or not) as soon as they become due. This definition is relevant not only for excluded cessation allocations, but also for the other excluded allocations (other than fair and reasonable allocations).

In addition:

under the Regulation, certain allocations made as a result of commutation or cessation of a superannuation income stream are deemed to be a use of a reserve for a pension liability purpose, and
under transitional rules provided by the Regulation, certain allocations are disregarded in working out, for the purposes of excluded cessation allocations, whether a reserve is a pension reserve at a time occurring after commencement.

The new definition of pension reserve and the 2 additions above are only relevant for determining excluded allocations from 7 December 2024. They do not apply when determining whether a reserve is a ‘pension reserve’ for the purposes of determining whether allocations are excluded from counting toward the concessional contributions cap before that date.

Allocations deemed to be for a pension liability purpose

From 7 December 2024, the Regulation provides, for the avoidance of doubt, that certain allocations (‘a deemed pension purpose allocation’) to a superannuation income stream recipient after the commutation or cessation of that income stream are taken to be made for the pension liability purpose: see subsection 292-90.02(8) of the ITAR (1997 Act) 2021. This ensures a reserve does not cease to be a pension reserve as a result of such allocations, including in at least the 2 following situations:

The active reserve situation – where the reserve is, apart from the deemed pension purpose allocation, a pension reserve because it is used solely for the purpose of discharging pension liabilities relating to one or more other income streams. The deemed pension purpose ensures the reserve continues to be a pension reserve after a deemed pension purpose allocation when continuing to discharge pension liabilities. Otherwise, the deemed pension purpose allocation and subsequent allocations to discharge pension liabilities would count towards the non-concessional contributions cap.
The dormant reserve situation – where the reserve is, apart from the deemed pension purpose allocation
- not being used for the purpose of discharging pension liabilities (because all income streams the reserve previously supported have been commuted or ceased), and
- used for no other purpose.

In the dormant reserve situation, the deemed pension purpose allocation does not prevent the reserve from ceasing to be a pension reserve for the purpose of making further cessation allocations.

There is no requirement that a deemed pension purpose allocation must be made within a specific period after the relevant commutation or cessation. If all other requirements for the allocation to be excluded are otherwise met, the allocations can be made long after the commutation or cessation.

Example: dormant reserve

A reserve established and used to support a single superannuation income stream:

commenced on 1 July 2005, and
ceased on 1 July 2020.

Between the cessation of the income stream and 6 December 2024, the reserve was not used for any purpose. After 7 December 2024, the trustee allocates the remainder of the reserve to the recipient of the former income stream in circumstances that satisfy all other requirements to be an excluded cessation allocation.

The allocation itself is deemed to be for a pension liability purpose. As a result, the reserve is a pension reserve at the time of the allocation.

End of example

Disregarded allocations

The Regulation also contains a transitional provision. That provision disregards certain allocations made before 7 December 2024 in working out whether a reserve of a complying superannuation plan is a pension reserve for the purposes of making excluded cessation allocations.

If one or more allocations before that date are the sole reason the reserve doesn’t otherwise meet the pension reserve definition for that purpose, disregarding the allocations ensures the definition is met.

An allocation from the reserve is disregarded if:

the reserve was used for the purpose of enabling the plan to discharge all or part of a liability of the plan to pay a superannuation income stream benefit from a superannuation income stream
the superannuation income stream was commuted or otherwise ceased
the allocation was made after the commutation or cessation, and
immediately before the commutation or cessation, the reserve was a pension reserve.

In the case where the reserve only ever supported one income stream, if the above criteria are met, allocations after the income stream commuted or otherwise ceased and before 7 December 2024 are disregarded.

In the case where the reserve was used to support more than one superannuation income stream, allocations made after the above requirements are met for the first time in relation to any of those income streams and before 7 December 2024 are disregarded. In effect, this could result in all allocations from the reserve occurring after that commutation or cessation being disregarded, even while the other income streams were still being supported by the reserve.

Example: fair and reasonable allocations disregarded

A reserve was established and used to support 2 lifetime pensions: income stream A and income stream B. Both commenced on 1 July 2005. Income stream A ceased on 1 July 2015, and income stream B ceased on 1 July 2020. The reserve met the definition of a pension reserve immediately before 1 July 2015. Between 1 July 2020 and 6 December 2024, fair and reasonable allocations were made to all members, but the reserve was otherwise used for no other purpose during that time.

After 7 December 2024, the trustee allocates a part of the reserve to the recipient of former income stream A in circumstances that satisfy all requirements for that allocation to be an excluded cessation allocation. In particular, the fair and reasonable allocations do not prevent the reserve from satisfying the requirement that it be a pension reserve because the transitional provision disregards all allocations between 1 July 2015 and 6 December 2024.

The cessation allocation itself is also deemed to be for a pension liability purpose. As a result, the reserve does not cease to be a pension reserve for the purposes of the Regulation because of the allocation, which may be relevant if a subsequent excluded cessation allocation is made to the recipient of former income stream B.

End of example

MIL OSI News –

June 18, 2025

MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney meets with Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi

Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, met with the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, at the G7 Leaders’ Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta.

Prime Minister Carney and Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed the importance of Canada-India ties, based upon mutual respect, the rule of law, and a commitment to the principle of sovereignty and territorial integrity. The leaders agreed to designate new high commissioners, with a view to returning to regular services to citizens and businesses in both countries.

They discussed strong and historic ties between our peoples, partnerships in the Indo-Pacific, and significant commercial links between Canada and India – including partnerships in economic growth, supply chains, and the energy transformation. Prime Minister Carney raised priorities on the G7 agenda, including transnational crime and repression, security, and the rules-based order.

The leaders also discussed opportunities to deepen engagement in areas such as technology, the digital transition, food security, and critical minerals.

Associated Link

MIL OSI Canada News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Delays SH1 Silverdale

Source: New Zealand Police

Southbound motorists are advised to expect delays on State Highway 1 north of Auckland.

Two cars collided around 10.10am between the Silverdale and Oteha Valley Road offramps.

There are no reports of injury although one of the vehicles is badly damaged.

Police are at the scene and ask motorists to be patient as there are long queues of traffic at the accident scene.

ENDS.

Nicole Bremner/NZ Police

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Innovative Welsh exporter puts Britain at the forefront of global immunisation efforts
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Innovative Welsh exporter puts Britain at the forefront of global immunisation efforts

UK Export Finance supports renewable energy tech company Dulas to deliver life-saving vaccine refrigerators to over 80 countries worldwide.
Government backing helps secure British manufacturing jobs and strengthen UK’s position in global health innovation

A Welsh renewable energy company is helping to protect millions of people against preventable diseases in developing countries with backing from UK Export Finance (UKEF) – the government’s export credit agency – and HSBC UK.

The Machynlleth-based company developed the world’s first mass-produced solar-powered vaccine refrigerator in 1982. Since then, its pioneering technology has supported vital immunisation efforts for some of the hardest-to-reach communities in over 80 countries across Africa, Asia and Latin America.

In 2022, following the challenges of the Covid pandemic, Dulas approached Stephen Wilson, UKEF’s Export Finance Manager for Wales. Through Wilson’s assistance, HSBC UK provided a £600,000 finance package backed by UKEF’s General Export Facility (GEF). This finance enabled the Welsh company to future-proof its operations and maintain consistent production capabilities.

Since that first financial package, the successful partnership between Dulas, UKEF and HSBC UK has been reviewed and renewed annually, with new facilities for £600,000 in 2023 and £800,000 in 2024. This has enabled the company to provide critical equipment to even more immunisation programmes across the world.

The company has grown to employ around 100 staff at its headquarters in Mid Wales, its branch office in Inverness (Scotland) and its manufacturing facility in Bognor Regis (West Sussex).

Gareth Thomas, Minister for Exports, said:

We’re committed to removing barriers to trade and helping more businesses of all sizes across the country reach new overseas markets.

I’m delighted to see Dulas expanding production of their world-leading technology thanks to government support.

Jo Stephens, Secretary of State for Wales, said:

Dulas is a fantastic success story and demonstrates how Welsh expertise can lead to a brilliant UK-wide and global operation.

I’m delighted to see UK Export Finance supporting a Welsh business that is not only driving our economy forward but also contributing to international goals in health and renewable energy.

As the only UK manufacturer of vaccine fridges certified with the World Health Organisation’s Performance, Quality and Safety standard (PQS), Dulas’s cold chain products can be confidently deployed by UN agencies and other humanitarian organisations across programmes worldwide. Research and development support from the Welsh Government has helped Dulas to enhance its product portfolio and meet the stringent PQS accreditation.

Tim Reid, CEO at UK Export Finance, said:

Dulas exemplifies the best of British innovation – combining renewable energy expertise with life-saving healthcare technology.

Their story provides a fantastic example how UK Export Finance can help our businesses supply vital equipment across the globe, while supporting quality manufacturing jobs at home.

Ruth Chapman, Executive Managing Director at Dulas, said:

The GEF facility has been an invaluable tool for our export business, supporting us to manage our business in a challenging, but very rewarding, sector.

We are very proud to manufacture our products within the UK and to contribute towards global efforts to eradicate common childhood illnesses, and international humanitarian efforts.

Orders for Dulas’s vaccine fridges often follow unpredictable situations such as conflict or natural disasters. Although buyers may request a high number of units – ranging last year between 100 to 300 per order – the frequency of orders can fluctuate significantly. UKEF’s support has enabled Dulas to smooth out the peaks and troughs between production and demand, ensuring cash flow and consistent factory operations.

Lyndsey Connor, Relationship Director, Corporate Banking at HSBC UK, said:

At HSBC UK, we’re committed to supporting innovative businesses as they expand into global markets. Dulas exemplifies the type of forward-thinking company that drives sustainable economic growth and creates skilled jobs in Wales and elsewhere in the UK.

Working alongside UKEF, we’ve been able to provide a financing solution that addresses Dulas’ unique business cycle challenges.

Contact

Media enquiries:

Email newsdesk@ukexportfinance.gov.uk

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Published 18 June 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Positive year for tara iti – but the fight for survival continues
Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date: 18 June 2025

Thanks to intensive management of wild nests and a growing hand-rearing programme with Auckland Zoo, this season saw 19 fledglings take to the skies. This is a significant improvement from last year’s nine, and just three the year before.

With fewer than 45 adult birds (over a year old) remaining, every chick is precious. DNA sexing results also revealed a higher-than-normal percentage of females, which could prove a vital boost for a species whose future depends on strong female survival.

DOC’s monitoring and tracking programme provided fascinating insights into the movements of young tara iti. Juveniles fitted with satellite tags, hand reared at Auckland Zoo, surprised the team with their adventurous flights – some completing roundtrips from the Hauraki Gulf to the Far North, and one even travelling as far as New Plymouth and back.

Alex Wilson, DOC Senior Ranger, says one of the birds spotted during post-season monitoring was a zoo-reared juvenile from the 2023–24 season.

“She survived the winter months, making her the first hand-reared bird known to have done so,” says Alex. “These are exciting developments and show our new tools like satellite tagging and hand rearing are working.

“Each fledgling is a step forward, and the information we’re collecting helps us understand how to get the best outcomes from our recovery efforts.”

Post-breeding season monitoring recorded 50 individual tara iti (up from 33 individuals last season), including 28 adults, nine sub-adults and 13 fledglings. DOC’s intensive habitat management, predator control, and head-starting approach proves that when we change how we interact with nature, it has a real impact.

Still, tara iti remain in a precarious position. The population is small, and the birds face ongoing threats from habitat loss, predation, disturbance from human activities, and climate change. Ongoing intensive conservation efforts will be required for many years to secure their survival, and DOC can’t do it alone.

DOC works closely with iwi partners including Patuharakeke Te Iwi Trust Board, Te Uri o Hau Settlement Trust, Nga Maungawhakahii O Kaipara Development Trust, Ngāti Wai Trust Board, and Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust, strategic partner Auckland Zoo and key supporters and partners including, Auckland Council, the Shorebirds Trust, NZ Fairy Tern Charitable Trust, About Tern, Birds NZ, Tara Iti Golf Club, NZ Nature Fund, and local trapping groups.

Generous support has also been provided by the Endangered Species Foundation, Pākiri Beach Holiday Park, Manāki Whitebait, Tongariro National Trout Centre, and New Zealand King Salmon.

Aotearoa has one of the highest rates of threatened species in the world, and every New Zealander has a role to play in turning this around. Whether it’s supporting conservation efforts, reducing threats in your own backyard, or simply learning more about our native species, what we do makes a difference.

How you can help protect tara iti
- Stay out of fenced nesting areas and use designated walkways.
- Keep dogs on leads and out of reserves.
- Avoid nests and chicks when on beaches and estuaries.
- Don’t drive or cycle on beaches.
- Dispose of rubbish, bait and fish scraps properly to deter predators.
- If a bird swoops at you or appears injured, move away quickly – you’re likely near a nest.
Donate to the tara iti recovery programme

The public can now donate directly to DOC’s Tara iti recovery programme through the New Zealand Nature Fund. Donations will be used to accelerate DOC initiatives, including:
- Developing three to five new safe breeding sites within the bird’s range.
- Creating shell patch habitats at existing and new breeding sites.
- Expanding predator control buffers to better protect all nesting areas.
- Growing the hand-rearing and release programme to boost productivity.
There’s no such thing as too small an action; every donation helps nature, and brings us closer to securing a future for these rare and remarkable birds.

Learn more and donate at New Zealand Nature Fund

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

MIL OSI New Zealand News –
June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Hoyle, Salinas, Bonamici, Dexter, Bynum Statement on the Resilient Columbia Basin Agreement

Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

June 17, 2025

For Immediate Release: June 17, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Val Hoyle (OR-04), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), and Janelle Bynum (OR-05) issued a joint statement on the Trump Administration’s decision to withdraw from the Resilient Columbia Basin Agreement (RCBA) reached between the Federal Government and the Six Sovereigns—the states of Washington and Oregon, and the Nez Perce Tribe, Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, and Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation:

“We are deeply disappointed in President Trump’s unilateral decision to withdraw from the Resilient Columbia Basin Agreement. This agreement enabled a pause to decades of litigation and reaffirmed the federal government’s responsibility to ensure healthy and abundant salmon populations in the Columbia River Basin.

“President Trump has already threatened Salmon recovery efforts through his nonsensical layoffs at key agencies – like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – which are responsible for operating hatcheries on the Columbia River System. Now, with the stroke of a pen, he has created upheaval and uncertainty for the future of salmon runs, clean energy in the Pacific Northwest, and our nation’s commitment to honoring Tribal treaty rights.

“Furthermore, this decision was made unilaterally and without any consultation with the four tribes — the Yakama Nation, the Nez Perce Tribe, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs.

“We have consistently supported federal funding for salmon recovery efforts and clean energy deployment, and it is beyond frustrating to see this Administration take such a sweeping approach to dismantling these essential programs. Moving forward, we will continue to work with our partners across the Pacific Northwest to reach a resilient solution to ensure abundant salmon populations and reliable clean energy for our region.”

###

MIL OSI USA News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Hoyle, Salinas, Bonamici, Dexter, Bynum Statement on the Resilient Columbia Basin Agreement

Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

June 17, 2025

For Immediate Release: June 17, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Val Hoyle (OR-04), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), and Janelle Bynum (OR-05) issued a joint statement on the Trump Administration’s decision to withdraw from the Resilient Columbia Basin Agreement (RCBA) reached between the Federal Government and the Six Sovereigns—the states of Washington and Oregon, and the Nez Perce Tribe, Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, and Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation:

“We are deeply disappointed in President Trump’s unilateral decision to withdraw from the Resilient Columbia Basin Agreement. This agreement enabled a pause to decades of litigation and reaffirmed the federal government’s responsibility to ensure healthy and abundant salmon populations in the Columbia River Basin.

“President Trump has already threatened Salmon recovery efforts through his nonsensical layoffs at key agencies – like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – which are responsible for operating hatcheries on the Columbia River System. Now, with the stroke of a pen, he has created upheaval and uncertainty for the future of salmon runs, clean energy in the Pacific Northwest, and our nation’s commitment to honoring Tribal treaty rights.

“Furthermore, this decision was made unilaterally and without any consultation with the four tribes — the Yakama Nation, the Nez Perce Tribe, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs.

“We have consistently supported federal funding for salmon recovery efforts and clean energy deployment, and it is beyond frustrating to see this Administration take such a sweeping approach to dismantling these essential programs. Moving forward, we will continue to work with our partners across the Pacific Northwest to reach a resilient solution to ensure abundant salmon populations and reliable clean energy for our region.”

###

MIL OSI USA News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI—Hagerty Joins America Reports on Fox News to Discuss Conflict in Middle East

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty

WASHINGTON—Today, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Appropriations, Banking, and Foreign Relations Committees and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, joined America Reports on Fox News to discuss the conflict in the Middle East.

*Click the photo above or here to watch*

Partial Transcript

Hagerty on Trump preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon: “What you’ve heard President [Donald] Trump say time and again, is that he’s not going to allow Iran to have a nuclear weapon. I think you’ve also heard President Trump say that he doesn’t want us to engage in more of these endless wars. So, whatever President Trump does—and I know that he’s three steps ahead of everybody else here—whatever he does, it’s going to be putting America’s interest first. It’s going to be bringing Iran to a point where they do not have a nuclear weapon. That’s the stated objective, and it’s going to have to happen very, very quickly. I don’t think the timeframe that Senator [Tim] Kaine is considering is relevant to this situation at all. President Trump wants to see the carnage come to an end. He’s been clear about that here. He’s been clear about that with Ukraine. He wants to see the loss of lives over. This regime has been extremely difficult to deal with. I’ve seen President Trump deal with this regime before. I served in his administration last time. The ‘Maximum Pressure Campaign’ that he imposed was working. Regretfully, the Biden administration put us back on this same train that [former President Barack] Obama had us on, with respect to Iran marching its way toward a nuclear weapon. President Trump is not going to allow that to happen. He’s had a much more difficult hand to deal with here. That’s why the Israelis have stepped in. They’ve seen the threat. They’re doing what they need to do. And whatever decision President Trump takes, I can assure you this: he’s going to be taking America’s interest to heart. And again, basic principles here, he wants to see an end of the carnage. He wants to see that end come fast, and he’s not going to allow Iran to have a nuclear weapon.”

Hagerty on the need to resolve the situation quickly: “What I want to be clear about is President Trump has never articulated the need for a regime change. What he wants to do is to bring the Iranians to the table. The Iranians ought to look at this very, very carefully and realize President Trump is not going to allow them to have a nuclear weapon. They may need to consider what the consequence will be if they don’t get to the table and make a deal fast. He’s offering them an offramp here. I think the window’s closing, though. This needs to be resolved quickly.”

Hagerty on Trump’s America First approach: “I know who the person is responsible for making this decision with the United States. I’m not getting ahead of him. This is President Trump’s decision with respect to that. But I’ll say this: the Iranian people will ultimately make the decision, and if the Ayatollahs continue down this path toward a nuclear weapon, I think the decision’s going to become very clear for the Iranian people too. Again, the Ayatollahs need to wake up. They need to consider the options that they have right now, and those options have narrowed dramatically. This needs to stop, and I think President Trump’s going to make certain that it does in a way that advances America’s interests.”

MIL OSI USA News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: China and Central Asian countries intend to jointly combat terrorism, separatism and extremism – declaration

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

ASTANA, June 18 (Xinhua) — China and five Central Asian countries on Tuesday agreed to jointly combat the “three evil forces” of terrorism, separatism and extremism, and strongly condemned any form of them.

Six countries – China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan – outlined the corresponding position in the Astana Declaration, issued following the 2nd China-Central Asia Summit.

The parties committed to combating threats such as cross-border penetration of terrorist groups, drug trafficking, transnational organized crime and cybercrime in order to ensure consistent and successful progress of joint projects and to counter security challenges through joint efforts.

The parties expressed the common opinion that a stable, developing and prosperous Central Asia meets the common interests of the peoples of the six countries and the entire international community.

The six countries declared their readiness to work with the international community to assist the Afghan people in maintaining peace and stability, restoring social infrastructure and integrating into regional and global economic systems.

They expressed support for building a peaceful, stable and prosperous Afghanistan, free from the threats of terrorism and drugs. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: China, Central Asian countries pledge to uphold multilateralism – declaration

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

ASTANA, June 18 (Xinhua) — China and Central Asian countries agreed on Tuesday to firmly adhere to the principles of multilateralism, universally recognized norms of international law and basic norms of international relations.

Six countries – China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan – enshrined these commitments in the Astana Declaration, issued following the 2nd China-Central Asia Summit.

The parties reaffirmed their firm commitment to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, as well as respect for the independence, equality, sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries.

The parties agreed to promote a more just international order by building an equitable and orderly multipolar world and promoting inclusive economic globalization that benefits all.

China and the Central Asian countries pledged to uphold the key role of the United Nations in ensuring international peace, security and sustainable development, uphold universal values such as peace, development, fairness, justice, democracy and freedom, and resist the politicization of human rights issues. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tougher sentences ahead as Three Strikes returns
Source: New Zealand Government

Repeat violent and sexual offenders are officially on notice Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee says.

“Tougher penalties are now in place as the Three Strikes law comes into force today and the message is clear. If you commit serious violent or sexual offences, expect to face increasingly severe consequences. New Zealanders have had enough – they want safer streets, safer homes, and a justice system that puts victims first,” Mrs McKee says.

The Sentencing (Reinstating Three Strikes) Amendment Act 2024 restores the regime scrapped under the previous government and is a central pillar in the Coalition’s drive to restore law and order and protect the public.

Under the Act:
- Offenders convicted of any of 42 serious violent or sexual offences – including new crimes like strangulation and suffocation – will face escalating penalties with each conviction.
- First strike: A formal warning.
- Second strike: No parole.
- Third strike: Maximum sentence without parole.
For example, someone convicted of murder at second or third strike will face a minimum of 17 or 20 years behind bars with no early release.

The Act provides for some judicial discretion to prevent manifestly unjust outcomes. It also sets out principles and guidance to help the courts apply the law and allows a limited benefit for guilty pleas to spare victims further trauma and reduce court delays.

“Importantly, previous strike warnings still count if they meet the new sentencing threshold – ensuring serious repeat offenders can’t escape accountability. The Ministry of Justice has published guidance to help affected individuals, and their lawyers check for active strikes,” Mrs McKee says.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –
June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Sharpened focus on quality economic, population stats

Source: New Zealand Government

Statistics Minister Dr Shane Reti has today announced a major new direction for Stats NZ, replacing the traditional paper-based census and increasing the frequency and quality of economic data to underpin the Government’s growth agenda.
From 2030, New Zealand will move away from a traditional nationwide census and adopt a new approach using administrative data, supported by a smaller annual survey and targeted data collection.
“This approach will save time and money while delivering more timely insights into New Zealand’s population,” says Dr Reti.
“Relying solely on a nationwide census day is no longer financially viable. In 2013, the census cost $104 million. In 2023, costs had risen astronomically to $325 million and the next was expected to come in at $400 million over five years.
“Despite the unsustainable and escalating costs, successive censuses have been beset with issues or failed to meet expectations.
“By leveraging data already collected by government agencies, we can produce key census statistics every year, better informing decisions that affect people’s lives.”
While administrative data will form the backbone of the new approach, surveys will continue to verify data quality and fill gaps. Stats NZ will work closely with communities to ensure smaller population groups are accurately represented.
The Government will also invest $16.5 million to deliver a monthly Consumers Price Index (CPI) from 2027, bringing New Zealand into line with other advanced economies. This will provide more timely inflation data to help the Government and Reserve Bank respond quickly to cost-of-living pressures.
“Inflation affects interest rates, benefit adjustments, and household budgets. Timely data helps ensure Kiwis are better supported in a fast-changing environment,” says Dr Reti.
Funding is also being allocated to align Stats NZ’s reporting with updated international macroeconomic standards. These reflect shifts such as the growth of the digital economy and will ensure New Zealand is measuring what matters in today’s world.
“Modern, internationally aligned statistics will support trade and investment, helping drive economic growth and job creation,” says Dr Reti.
Dr Reti says these changes reflect a broader reset for Stats NZ.
“Some outputs have not met the standard expected of a world-class statistics agency. We’re getting back to basics – measuring what matters. Our goal is a modern, efficient, and reliable data system that delivers the insights New Zealand needs now and into the future.”
Note to editors:Administrative (admin) data is information collected by government agencies during their everyday operations — like tax records, education enrolments, or health data.
Admin data is already used regularly to produce some statistics, like population estimates and statistics about international migration, household income, and child poverty. It has also been used in the two most recent censuses to support the information gathered through surveying.
Examples of admin data and their sources include:• ACC injury claims (ACC)• student loan and allowances (Inland Revenue, Ministry of Social Development) • tax and income (Inland Revenue)• births, deaths, and marriages (Department of Internal Affairs)• education data (Ministry of Education).

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 18, 2025

Category: Asia Pacific

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