NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI: BNP Paribas SA : 2025 MREL requirements notification

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    2025 MREL REQUIREMENTS NOTIFICATION

    PRESS RELEASE

    Paris, 12 June 2025

    The BNP Paribas Group has received the notification by the Autorité de Contrôle Prudentiel et de Résolution (ACPR), implementing the decision of the Single Resolution Board, of the updated Minimum Requirement for Own Funds and Eligible Liabilities (MREL) requirements applicable from this date.

    The total MREL requirement applicable now amounts to 22.19% to which the CBR1 must be added, of the Group’s RWA and 5.91% of the Group’s leverage exposures.

    As regards the subordination constraint, the requirement applicable for the BNP Paribas Group is respectively 14.78% to which the CBR1 must be added, of Group’s RWA and 5.75% of the Group’s leverage exposures.

    As at 31 March 2025, the BNP Paribas Group is well above the updated MREL requirements with a total MREL ratio of 29.8% based on Group’s RWA and a Group subordinated MREL ratio of 27.1% on the same basis. These ratios were respectively 9.0% and 8.2% of Group’s leverage exposures as at 31 March 2025.

    About BNP Paribas

    Leader in banking and financial services in Europe, BNP Paribas operates in 64 countries and has nearly 178,000 employees, including more than 144,000 in Europe. The Group has key positions in its three main fields of activity: Commercial, Personal Banking & Services for the Group’s commercial & personal banking and several specialised businesses including BNP Paribas Personal Finance and Arval; Investment & Protection Services for savings, investment and protection solutions; and Corporate & Institutional Banking, focused on corporate and institutional clients. Based on its strong diversified and integrated model, the Group helps all its clients (individuals, community associations, entrepreneurs, SMEs, corporates and institutional clients) to realise their projects through solutions spanning financing, investment, savings and protection insurance. In Europe, BNP Paribas has four domestic markets: Belgium, France, Italy and Luxembourg. The Group is rolling out its integrated commercial & personal banking model across several Mediterranean countries, Türkiye, and Eastern Europe. As a key player in international banking, the Group has leading platforms and business lines in Europe, a strong presence in the Americas as well as a solid and fast-growing business in Asia-Pacific. BNP Paribas has implemented a Corporate Social Responsibility approach in all its activities, enabling it to contribute to the construction of a sustainable future, while ensuring the Group’s performance and stability.

    Press contact

    Sandrine Romano – sandrine.romano@bnpparibas.com – +33 6 71 18 23 05
    Hacina Habchi – hacina.habchi@bnpparibas.com – +33 7 61 97 65 20

    1 Combined Buffer Requirement of 4.78% as at 31 March 2025

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Third Strategic Dialogue between the State of Qatar and the French Republic

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Paris,  June 12, 2025

    The Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, and the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic, Mr Jean-Noël Barrot, co-chaired the third annual Qatar-France Strategic Dialogue in Paris on June 12 2025. 

    Qatar and France welcomed the holding of their third Annual Strategic Dialogue and reviewed the important progress made since the State Visit of His Highness the Amir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to France in February 2024 which resulted in new cooperation initiatives within the fields of security, defence, economy, trade, investment and education. Both countries affirmed the strength of their bilateral relationship and pledged to further develop it by expanding strategic partnership on key files.

    POLITICAL AND DIPLOMATIC COOPERATION

    Both Ministers reaffirmed the commitment of Qatar and France to upholding a rules-based international order and international law, the promotion of peace, stability and prosperity in the Middle East, and to close cooperation in relation to regional and global crises.

    Palestine-Israel: Both Ministers called for a ceasefire, the release of all remaining hostages and a long-term political solution that will offer the best hope for the victims of this conflict on all sides and achieving a pathway to a two-state solution. The Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs expressed France’s deep appreciation for all Qatar’s mediation efforts, including those to secure an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

    Both Ministers called for full, unhindered humanitarian access allowing aid for the Palestinian population to enter Gaza. The Ministers further stated that politicising of humanitarian assistance, threats of forced displacement, or Israel’s plans to remain in Gaza after the war are unacceptable. The two Ministers stated that the Israeli government’s restrictions of essential humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian population of Gaza are totally deplorable and breach International Humanitarian Law.  They further highlighted that Israel is duty-bound to meet all its obligations to ensure immediately a massive and unhindered flow of aid to Gaza – this includes engaging with the UN to ensure aid delivery is in line with humanitarian principles. 

    Both ministers reiterated their opposition to any forced displacement of Gaza’s Palestinian population, which would be a serious violation of international law and a major destabilizing factor for the entire region.

    Qatar welcomes the endorsement by France of the Gaza Reconstruction plan formulated by the League of Arab States in March as a serious, credible basis for immediately meeting reconstruction, governance and security needs in the aftermath of the war in Gaza. It guarantees the respect of international law and maintains Gaza’s future within the framework of a future Palestinian State.

    HE Prime Minister Al Thani welcomed the French-Saudi jointly chaired international meeting on June 18 for the implementation of a two-state solution. Both Ministers declared such efforts as the only way to bring durable peace and security to Israelis and Palestinians while ensuring the stability of the wider region.   

    They stressed that the High-Level International Conference on the peaceful resolution of the question of Palestine and the implementation of the two-State solution, decided by UNGA resolution A/RES/79/81, would contribute to this goal by designing a credible roadmap for the implementation of this solution in which the two countries would be able to live side-by-side in peace within their internationally recognized borders. Both ministers stressed that the future Palestinian state would have sole responsibility for rule of law, including policing primacy. 

    Syria: Both Ministers acknowledged the historic transition process underway in Syria. They emphasised the importance of an inclusive political dispensation that protects the rights of all irrespective of ethnicity, sect, religion or gender. They reiterated their support for the reconstruction of a new Syria – free, stable, sovereign, that respects all components of society. They agreed that stability and security in Syria is paramount for all its citizens as well as the surrounding region. To that end both Ministers committed to work together wherever possible to provide humanitarian assistance, as well as support economic development, and long-term reconstruction. They welcomed the lifting of international sanctions on Syria’s economy and encouraged foreign investments in the country. Qatar welcomed French support for the recent EU decision to lift economic sanctions on Syria and the recent meeting between President Macron and Syria’s interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa. Such support and initiatives enable Syria and the Syrian people to undertake a transition to stability, peace and prosperity. The Ministers condemned violations of Syria’s territorial integrity and warned of escalation tactics designed to de-stabilize the region.  

    Lebanon: Qatar welcomed the hosting by France of the International Conference in Support of Lebanon’s People and Sovereignty in October 2024. Progress to political and economic reform in Lebanon is welcomed by both countries. 

    Qatar and France support the territorial integrity and sovereign rights of the Lebanese people, both Ministers called on all parties to honour the commitments made under the ceasefire reached in November 2024. To this end they called for a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon, the complete deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces and their ongoing support to ensure security and achieve State monopoly on arms, assisted by UNIFIL and the supervision mechanism of the November 2024 ceasefire agreement, of which France alongside the U.S. participates in. 

    They emphasized their support to the process of change that has begun under the new Lebanese government, aimed at putting Lebanon back on the path of reconstruction, recovery and stability. They expressed their continuing support to the Lebanese Armed Forces and to the UN interim force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) whose action is essential to guarantee the stability of South Lebanon.

    Iran: Both Ministers reaffirmed Qatar and France’s support for a diplomatic solution leading to an agreement that addresses and resolves all international concerns related to Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief, in order to preserve the non-proliferation global architecture as well as stability and de-escalation in the Gulf region. They reiterated their support to the ongoing talks between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America.  They also called on Iran to fully and effectively cooperate with the legitimate requests and work of the International Atomic Energy Agency.   

    Rwanda and eastern DRC: Both ministers emphasised their shared commitment to peace, stability and security in the Great Lakes region. France commended Qatar’s mediation efforts between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo and between Congolese authorities and AFC/M23. They stressed the need for parties to continue working towards the conclusion of a ceasefire, as called upon by United Nations Security Council Resolution 2773 (2025). Following its participation, along with the U.S., DRC, Rwanda and Togo, to the Doha meeting on April 30, France recalled its continued support to Qatar’s peace efforts.

    Sudan: Both Ministers resolved to further work together to address the devastating conflict in Sudan. Qatar and France recalled the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2736 (2024) demanding that the Rapid Support Forces halt the siege of El Fasher and calling for an immediate de-escalation. They reaffirmed their support to the unity of the country and called on the warring parties to immediately cease hostilities, abide by their obligations under international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and guarantee full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access. 

    UNOC: Both ministers welcomed the organization of the United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, France, from 9 to 13 June 2025, inter alia to support a blue carbon economy and the fight against illicit fishing. They praised the treaty on marine biodiversity beyond areas of national jurisdiction on the high seas (BBNJ) as a milestone in the collective protection of the high seas.

    ECONOMY, TRADE AND INVESTMENTS

    Qatar and France emphasized the importance of their growing economic, trade and investment partnership, with a total trade of more than €1.3 billion in 2024. The Ministers highlighted that bilateral trade makes a significant contribution to supporting jobs, innovation, and economic development in both countries.

    The two Ministers reviewed progress on Qatar’s 2024 landmark engagement to invest 10 billion euros into key sectors of the French economy. Qatar’s investment will cover mutually beneficial sectors ranging from food security, digital economy, AI and IT, semiconductors, energy transition, space, Intellectual Property, health, tourism and hospitality and culture. They also welcomed the forthcoming Qatar-France Business Forum as an opportunity for mutual trade growth and investment. They discussed ways to further strengthen their investment partnership and underlined their willingness to facilitate cooperation between the Qatari and French private sectors. They also explored areas of common interest, such as fiscal policy, sustainable finance and public-private partnerships (PPPs).

    Qatar’s innovative investment in France’s semiconductor industry highlights its role in key technology subsectors, including supply chain developments that are also propelling digital and green transformations across vital industries such as AI, mobility, and consumer technology. 

    Both sides discussed ways to further develop their trade and investment partnership, through a Roadmap focused on strategic areas in alignment with the framework of the economic diversification goals stated by Qatar’s National Vision 2030 and in accordance with the economic plan “France 2030.” 

    The French Minister praised Qatar’s ongoing commitment to ensure continued and reliable supplies of energy to Europe, including France and thus contributing to the country’s energy security. 

    DEFENSE, SECURITY AND COUNTERTERRORISM 

    Qatar and France reaffirmed the importance of the defence and security as a foundation stone of their partnership.  This was illustrated by the increase in official-level visits in the last 12 months, and the deepening coordination on an operational level.  

    The Ministers welcomed the implementation of joint defence operational partnership including joint planning, training and military exercises, most recently the Pegase, Al Salam, Al Koot exercises, as well as joint projects in defence industries and innovation and ongoing defence acquisitions including cooperation through both nations’ air forces, facilitated by the common possession of Rafale combat aircrafts. 

    They praised the strategic convergences between Qatar and France, which contribute to enhancing bilateral interactions between the two military institutions. Qatar and France are keen to explore ways to develop new synergies between their armed forces for future defence capabilities. 

    They also explored ways to build on existing links and expand activities on common strategic interests particularly as they contribute to de-escalation and security in the Gulf and the Red Sea.  

    Both Ministers welcomed the robust and long-lasting partnership between their respective security forces, including cooperation and important knowledge-sharing on Mega Sports Events, Crisis Management and Major Event Management, Air and Aviation Security, Cybersecurity and Digital Investigations, and mutual professionalization and capacity-building. 

    They commended the friendship and trust between the French Gendarmerie and the Qatari Lekhwiya celebrating in 2025 the 20th anniversary of their cooperation. They also welcomed the development of a strategic partnership between the French and Qatari national police forces and the establishment of a High Police Committee. They also emphasised building on this cooperation. 

    Both Ministers emphasised that the fight against terrorism remains a key bilateral realm for cooperation. They said that such cooperation is crucial in prevention and countering terrorism and ensuring the safety of their citizens. These efforts reflect the need for a coordinated approach to deal with an ever-evolving set of terrorist threats that transcend national borders. They also agreed to continue their strong partnership in cybersecurity and in combating terrorism, countering violent extremism and illicit financial flows. 

    HUMANITARIAN AND DEVELOPMENT COOPERATION

    On humanitarian and international development cooperation, both Ministers affirmed the continuing success of programmatic bilateral cooperation and coordination between their respective implementing agencies including QFFD, EAA, Silatech and AFD.

    Regarding development, both Ministers welcomed the renewal of their bilateral cooperation in this field, building on the signing of two major agreements between the French Development Agency (AFD) and the Qatar Fund for Development, the Education Above All (EAA) foundation and Silatech in February 2024. They expressed their appreciation concerning the first cooperation between AFD and QFFD for an ambitious project to renovate and expand Saint Joseph’s Hospital in East Jerusalem. They welcomed that QFFD and the AFD Group (AFD, Proparco and Expertise France) renewed their commitment to cofinance development projects and agreed to raise the cofinancing target from $50 million to $100 million for the duration of the MoU. In the short term, QFFD and the AFD Group commit to operationalizing the partnership in the following countries where there are pressing needs and discussions have already started on joint priorities: Lebanon, Palestine and Syria. They welcomed that QFFD and AFD Group will also, in the medium term, work on joint global advocacy activities and expand the partnership to innovative finance.

    Both Ministers praised the ongoing discussions between the Crisis and Support Centre of the French ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs and the Qatar Fund for Development to explore possible new areas of dialogue and joint funding, including in the Middle East, Africa and Asia as well as in the field of humanitarian logistics. 

    Following the joint commitment by the Emir of Qatar and the President of the French Republic to dedicate 200 million dollars in 2024 to humanitarian relief in Gaza both Ministers expressed the necessity of answering without delay the urgent needs for aid there. The Ministers also commended the humanitarian impact of joint health relief efforts in Gaza, including medical evacuations, delivery and flow of humanitarian aid, medicines and ambulances. Additionally, they highlighted joint relief efforts in Lebanon to support conflict-affected populations. Recalling these recent successful joint humanitarian operations, both Ministers support a new joint emergency operation to supply medical equipment and medicine to Afghanistan.

    Such cooperation is the embodiment of the longstanding strategic partnership as well as the commitment of Qatar and France to stand by conflict-affected populations.  

    EDUCATION, HEALTH AND SPORTS 

    Both Ministers lauded the strong cooperation in the fields of education, health and sports. On education the Ministers addressed the growing partnership in the field of education, in particular knowledge sharing and research agreements between Qatari and French Institutions of Higher Education (HEI), including Sciences Po and Doha Institute. 

    Cooperation on research and innovation has been boosted by the strong collaboration between Qatar Research Development and Innovation Council (QRDI) and French HEI’s including Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS), Commissariat à l’énergie atomique et aux energies alternatives (CEA), Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM) and HEC Paris. Under the Qatar Open Innovation Scheme French companies have also received QRDI awards and are working in collaboration with Qatar-based SME’s and institutions to make strides in Agricultural Sciences and Medical Healthcare.  

    Qatar and France are looking forward to the signing of the 8th executive program enhancing bilateral cooperation particularly in French language learning, technical, professional and higher education, and mobility of students and teachers. This agreement aims at establishing a steering committee dedicated to learning French from the 9th (third French) class in Qatari public institutions, as well as a steering committee related to the development of university cooperation. Both sides expressed their mutual intention to strengthen their cooperation in higher education and research, promoting exchanges of students and researchers, as well as further exploring joint training and programmes that enable students to achieve their personal and professional goals.

    Qatar and France also expressed their wish to strengthen the sharing of expertise between the medical communities of the two countries, through the rapprochement or exchange of researchers. The minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs expressed his appreciation for the help of Qatar for the recent opening of the World Health Organization Academy in Lyon.The Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Al Thani congratulated the Republic of France on its hugely successful hosting of the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games.  Both sides expressed their willingness to share expertise and knowledge and to continue their cooperation on the positive impact and the legacy of hosting mega sporting events.  In particular, they addressed the ways in which strong commitments in terms of social and environmental issues, including on emissions reduction and carbon absorption, opportunities to promote inclusion and diversity, and combat hate speech, racism and other forms of prejudice and discrimination, is offered by sport. 

    CULTURE, ART, HERITAGE COOPERATION

    Both Ministers welcomed the deep institutional and people-to-people connections forged through shared ties on culture, art and heritage. They recalled the visit in April, at the invitation of the Qatari authorities and HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums, of HE Rachida Dati, Minister of Culture of the French Republic. 

    The visit came as part of framework commitments made in the MoU signed in June 2024 between HE Rachida Dati, on behalf of the Ministry of Culture, and HE Sheikha Al Mayassa, Chairperson of Qatar Museums. Both Ministers welcomed the signing of 6 partnership agreements in April 2025 between the French Ministry of Culture, Qatar Museums and the cultural institutions of both countries, and pertaining to a broad range of areas of cooperation, in particular training, exhibitions, loans, research, artist residencies, development of image education workshops for young audiences, development of co-productions, support in the creation of a cinematheque. Qatari and French cultural institutions are currently working on the implementation of these agreements.

    The accords include a framework agreement between the French Ministry of Culture and Qatar Museums for professional training in the cultural sector; an agreement between Qatar Museums and the Etablissement public du musée d’Orsay et du musée de l’Orangerie – Valérie Giscard d’Estaing, including research projects, joint exhibition projects, and academic and educational projects. Qatar Museums and the Musée Guimet will proceed on collaboration that includes research, conservation and educational projects dedicated to Asian arts. Qatar Museums also proceeded with a partnership agreement with Manufactures nationales – Sèvres and Mobilier national dedicated to the design and crafts sectors, aiming to strengthen links between French and Qatari designers and craftspeople. Under the framework further Qatar-France agreements include a Memorandum of Understanding between the Doha Film Institute and the Centre national du cinéma et de l’image animée as well as a Memorandum of understanding between the National Library of Qatar and the Bibliothèque Nationale de France. 

    They also welcomed the increased cooperation between the Qatari and French Ministries of Culture, in particular through the forthcoming renewal of the cooperation agreement between the two ministries of Culture.

    Both Ministers reiterated the commitment of their nations to heritage protection, especially in conflict areas, and respect for all relevant international agreements of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

    A SHARED AND RESPONSIBLE FUTURE 

    The State of Qatar and France emphasize the importance of their continued partnership which benefits the interests of both countries and consolidates coordination towards a shared and responsible future.

    Qatar and France look forward to reviewing progress in these areas at the fourth Strategic Dialogue to be held in Doha in 2026.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • Air India plane crash: Tata Group announces Rs 1 crore support for families of victims

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Tata Group Chairman N. Chandrasekaran on Thursday announced that the company will provide Rs 1 crore to the families of each person who lost their life in the tragic crash of Air India Flight 171 in Ahmedabad.

    He also said that the Tata Group will cover the medical expenses of those who were injured and ensure they receive full care and support.

    In a statement, Chandrasekaran said: “No words can adequately express the grief we feel at this moment. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost their loved ones, and with those who have been injured.”

    He added that the Tata Group would also help build a new hostel at B.J. Medical College as part of its support efforts.

    “We remain steadfast in standing with the affected families and communities during this unimaginable time,” he mentioned.

    Expressing his grief, Tata Trusts Chairman Noel Tata said the tragedy has brought “immense grief to countless families”.

    “This heart-wrenching incident has brought immense grief to countless families, and our thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones today,” he said.

    “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and stand in solidarity with them during this unimaginable time.”

    The crash involved Air India Flight 171, which was flying from Ahmedabad to London. According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the plane had 242 people onboard, including ten cabin crew members.

    The DGCA reported that the aircraft took off from Runway 23 at 1.39 p.m. Shortly after, it sent out a MAYDAY distress signal to the Air Traffic Control (ATC), but no further communication was received after that.

    The aircraft crashed just outside the airport boundary and was seen emitting thick black smoke.

    The flight was being commanded by Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, with First Officer Clive Kundar as the co-pilot.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Global: Khartoum before the war: the public spaces that held the city together

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Ibrahim Z. Bahreldin, Associate Professor of Urban & Environmental Design, University of Khartoum

    What makes a public space truly public?

    In Khartoum, before the current conflict engulfed Sudan, the answer was not always a park, a plaza or a promenade.

    The city’s streets, tea stalls (sitat al-shai), protest sites and even burial spaces served as dynamic arenas of everyday life, political expression and informal resilience.

    In a recently published article, I studied 64 public spaces across pre-war Greater Khartoum, revealing a landscape far richer – and more contested – than standard urban classifications suggest. Specifically, I uncovered four classifications: formal, informal, privately owned and hybrid spaces – each alive with negotiation and everyday use.

    While some spaces were planned by colonial engineers or municipal authorities, many were carved out by communities: claimed, adapted and reimagined through use.

    My research offers valuable insights into the design and planning of Africa’s cities. As they grow and face mounting political and environmental pressures, it’s time to rethink how public spaces are defined and designed – not through imported models, but by listening to the ways people already make cities public.



    Read more:
    Sudan needs to accept its cultural diversity: urban planning can help rebuild the country and prevent future conflict

    Across the African continent, cities are growing fast – but not always fairly. Urban expansion often privileges gated developments, mega-projects and high-security zones while neglecting the everyday spaces where most people live, work and gather.

    In Sudan, these dynamics have been further complicated by conflict, displacement and economic instability. The ongoing war has disrupted not only governance, but also the spatial fabric of urban life.

    My paper aims to invite those involved in planning policies and post-conflict reconstruction to move beyond formal, western-centric models that often overlook how publicness actually unfolds in African cities: through informality, negotiation and social improvisation.

    Khartoum’s public spaces, as documented in my study, serve as diagnostic tools for understanding how cities survive crises, express identity and contest inequality.

    In the wake of war and displacement, these spaces will play a role in shaping how Sudan rebuilds not just infrastructure, but social cohesion.

    Pre-war Khartoum

    Khartoum’s public spaces cannot be understood through conventional categories – like formal squares and urban parks – alone. These formal squares represent only one layer of a much more plural and negotiated urban reality.

    Drawing on fieldwork and the documentation of 64 public spaces across Greater Khartoum, I identify four overlapping types that reflect how space is produced, accessed and contested.

    1. Formal public spaces: These include planned parks, ceremonial squares, civic plazas and administrative open spaces, often relics of colonial or postcolonial urban planning. They are defined by order, visibility and regulation. Mīdān Abbas, originally an active civic space in the centre of Khartoum, repeatedly reclaimed by informal traders and protesters, is one example, illustrating how even the most formal spaces can become contested. It was notably active during Sudan’s April 1985 uprising, serving as part of a wider network of civic spaces used for political mobilisation. Informal traders consistently transformed it into a bustling marketplace, embedding everyday commerce and social exchange into the formal urban fabric.

    2. Informal and insurgent spaces: These emerge beyond or against official planning logics – riverbanks used for gatherings, neglected lots transformed into social nodes or bridges appropriated by traders. They include spiritual sites like Sufi tombs, and protest spaces such as the sit-in zone outside the city’s army headquarters. These spaces reveal the city’s capacity for bottom-up urbanism and collective adaptation.

    3. Privately owned civic spaces: Shopping malls, privately managed parks and cultural cafés fall into this category. While they appear public, they are often classed, surveilled (monitored through cameras or security presence) or exclusionary. The rise of these spaces coincides with the decline of state-managed urban infrastructure, reflecting the turn in Sudanese urban governance.



    Read more:
    Sudan: the symbolic significance of the space protesters made their own

    4. Public “private” spaces: These spaces blur lines between ownership and use. They include mosque courtyards, school grounds, building frontages or underutilised university lawns that serve as informal gathering points. Access here is governed less by law and more by social codes, trust or class.

    Together, these typologies highlight that “publicness” in Khartoum is relational. It depends not only on who planned a space, but who uses it, how and under what conditions.

    Planning in African cities must therefore move beyond fixed zoning maps to embrace the layered, fluid and lived nature of urban space.

    Rebuilding, rethinking, resisting

    Post-conflict reconstruction in Sudan – and elsewhere in Africa – must resist the allure of “blank slate” master plans. Those involve rebuilding cities from scratch with sweeping, top-down designs that ignore existing social and spatial dynamics.

    Imported models, often guided by bureaucratic thinking or commercial incentives, risk erasing the very spaces where public life already thrives, albeit informally or invisibly.

    Rather than imposing formality, planners should recognise and strengthen the informal and hybrid systems that sustain civic life, especially in times of instability.

    Urban theorists working in and on the global south, such as AbdouMaliq Simone and the late Vanessa Watson, have long argued for planning frameworks that centre on everyday practices, adaptive use and spatial justice.

    Khartoum offers a compelling case.

    From the sit-ins of 2019 to tea stalls run by displaced women, public spaces in Sudan are not inert backdrops. They are active platforms of everyday life, resistance, care and community-making.

    Reconstruction must begin by asking: what spaces mattered to people before the war? Which ones fostered inclusion, dignity and visibility? Only then can new urban futures emerge, ones that are rooted in the practices of those who have always made the city public, even when the state did not.

    What makes spaces truly public?

    The public realm in Sudan has always been shaped through negotiation, sometimes with the state, often despite it.

    Rebuilding after war is not only about reconstructing buildings but also about reimagining the terms of belonging.

    This requires a shift from viewing public space as a fixed asset to understanding it as a dynamic process. Who gets to gather, to speak, to rest, to protest – these are the true measures of publicness.

    Understanding Khartoum’s pre-war public spaces isn’t a nostalgic exercise. It’s a necessary step towards building more inclusive, resilient and locally grounded cities in the wake of crisis.

    Ibrahim Bahreldin is a member of the Sudanese Institute of Architects and the City Planning Institute of Japan, and is registered as a professional architect and urban planner with the Sudanese Engineering Council and the Saudi Council of Engineers. He is also affiliated with the King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia.

    The Author receives funding from KAU Endowment (WAQF) at King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

    – ref. Khartoum before the war: the public spaces that held the city together – https://theconversation.com/khartoum-before-the-war-the-public-spaces-that-held-the-city-together-258632

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Tornado: this samurai-western immigrant revenge tale tries to be many things – but runs out of ammo

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Chi-Yun Shin, Senior Lecturer, Film Studies, Sheffield Hallam University

    Tornado is many things: a British period drama, a western, a samurai film, a coming-of-age story and an origin story. Set in the windswept moorland of Britain in 1790, the film offers a lawless backdrop fit for a western, with no visible sign of the industrial revolution that began some three decades prior.

    Its Wuthering Heights-esque wilderness, serenely captured by the cinematographer Robbie Ryan conjures up an almost otherworldly look.

    The film is also a revenge story. Tornado (Kōki), the 16-year-old Anglo-Japanese heroine, seeks to avenge her father’s death, armed with a samurai sword. First, though, she has to escape the clutches of some ruthless highwaymen.

    We begin in the middle of this action, with Tornado being pursued across a desolate landscape by Sugarman’s (Tim Roth) gang, who just killed her father, Fujin (Takehiro Hira).

    They are looking for their ill-gotten sacks of gold, which they believe she stole from them. What they don’t know is that Fujin, a former samurai who was reduced to a travelling puppeteer in Britain, taught his daughter to fight and hid the gold. These archetypal components of western genre, gold and revenge are mashed up with a samurai-sword-wielding heroine.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    The cross-pollination of western and samurai films has a long history. There is the well-known influence of John Ford’s westerns on the samurai films of Akira Kurosawa. Meanwhile, Kurosawa’s Seven Samurai (1954) in turn directly inspired the classic Hollywood western, The Magnificent Seven (1960).

    Kurosawa’s Yojimbo (1961) practically started the whole sub-genre of spaghetti western, providing a template for the narrative and character arc. Both Sergio Leone’s influential A Fistful of Dollars (1964) and Sergio Corbucci’s Django (1966) feature a lone man, seemingly a mercenary, entering a town with two warring gangs where he uses his skills (swapping samurai-sword-wielding for gun-slinging) to manipulate the situation.

    Tornado’s influences

    Tornado pays homage to Leone’s epic spaghetti western Once Upon a Time in the West (1968). This is most obvious in a scene where the vicious gang arrives at the circus troupe’s trailer site where Tornado is taking refuge.

    A knife thrower (Jude Cranston) is practising his techniques, and his steady throwing actions make rhythmic noises as his knives hit the target board in succession. This creates a soundscape reminiscent of the masterful sound design of the opening sequence of Once Upon a Time in the West.



    Read more:
    Tornado is a Scottish samurai-western film – genres with a long-shared history

    The sole black member of the gang, named Psychotic Bandit (Dennis Okwera) is conspicuously dressed in all black, complete with a black cowboy hat. This costuming is almost identical to one of the three outlaws played by Woody Strode (one of the first black American players in the NFL, turned actor) in Once Upon a Time in the West.

    As he approaches the knife thrower and silences him, his out-of-place look (too dandy for a rural bandit) suddenly makes sense and serves a purpose. Like the Strode character, Psychotic Bandit doesn’t speak, but he doesn’t quite pull off the formidable calm menace of Strode.

    The trailer for Tornado.

    Tornado is also a typical immigrant family story that deals with the generational gap. The father tries his best to pass on his culture and knowledge (samurai skill in this case) to Tornado, but his teenage daughter, while reluctantly participating in the family business (a samurai puppet show) wants to have a lie-in and go to town. She speaks to him in perfect English as opposed to his accented English.

    Although the presence of Japanese samurai as a travelling showman in 1790s Scotland is unlikely (considering that the first Japanese visitors set foot on British soil in 1832), director John Maclean’s interest in outsiders and marginalised communities is evident.

    In one scene, now-wounded Sugarman faces Tornado and makes a fatherly suggestion that she go home, to which she answers: “I am home.” It’s a knowing exchange, even if it’s a bit of cliche. Through the course of the film, Tornado grows to accept her father’s teachings and comes of age, as she declares: “I’m Tornado; remember my name.” Though it feels a little contrived, it is fitting for an origin story of a self-assured samurai.

    This coming-of-age story of a young female samurai, set in a desolate landscape, offers a downbeat antidote to the romanticised stories of a westerner who goes to Japan and becomes a samurai, as seen in The Last Samurai (2003) and Shōgun (2024).

    In the end, however, Tornado tries to be too many things, and can’t quite cut it as a satisfying samurai film. It lacks the introspection of Twilight Samurai (2002) or the exhilaration of Zatoichi (2003) and 13 Assassins (2010). It amounts to an unconventional, but underwhelming, execution of a classic genre mash-up.

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

    – ref. Tornado: this samurai-western immigrant revenge tale tries to be many things – but runs out of ammo – https://theconversation.com/tornado-this-samurai-western-immigrant-revenge-tale-tries-to-be-many-things-but-runs-out-of-ammo-258733

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ricketts Introduces Legislative Package to Protect American Way of Life from Communist China

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced a legislative package of four bills that would counter malicious efforts to disrupt American prosperity by Communist China and other adversaries. The package includes the No Capital Gains Allowance for Americans Adversaries Act, the PRC Military and Human Rights Capital Markets Sanctions Act, the No China in Index Funds Act, and the Protecting Endowments from our Adversaries Act (PEOAA). This legislative package limits the ability of adversaries like Communist China from taking advantage of America’s economic strength and tax benefits intended for Americans.
    “Communist China is the greatest threat to the American way of life,” said Ricketts. ”Communist China is actively threatening a rules-based system that has maintained peace and prosperity for over 80 years. America’s markets are supposed to benefit Americans. We can’t allow our markets to fund our adversaries like Communist China.”
    The No Capital Gains Allowance for Americans Adversaries Act would:
    Treat capital gains on all Chinese, Russian, Belarusian, Iranian, and North Korean stocks as ordinary income. Such investments would then not be eligible for the lower capital gains tax rates.
    Eliminate the “step-up in basis” for Chinese, Russian, Belarusian, Iranian, and North Korean assets inherited at death – which reduces an heir’s tax liability by ignoring gains that occurred before inheritance.
    Direct the Securities and Exchange Commission to maintain a public list of securities covered by this Act and require that sellers of covered securities disclosure to customers that sales of those securities will be treated as ordinary income.
    The PRC Military and Human Rights Capital Markets Sanctions Act would:
    Direct the President to compile and maintain a single public list of sanctioned companies and their affiliates.
    These lists include those that target human rights violators, including companies that utilize coerced labor in production, companies that proliferate dangerous technologies, and those that have connections to the Chinese military and intelligence services.

    Prevent U.S. persons from purchasing, selling, or holding:
    A publicly-traded security issued by a sanctioned company or affiliate of the sanctioned company;
    A publicly-traded security that is a derivative of a publicly issued security issued by a sanctioned company or affiliate of the sanctioned company;
    A security that provides investment exposure to a publicly-traded security issued by a sanctioned company or affiliate of the sanctioned company.

    Give a U.S. person 180 days after enactment to divest from the prohibited securities.
    The No China in Index Funds Act would:
    Prohibit index funds from investing in Chinese companies and require them to divest from such investments within 180 days after date of enactment.
    The Protecting Endowments from Our Adversaries Act (PEOAA) would:
    Apply to private college and university endowments over $1,000,000,000
    Disincentivize endowments from investing (directly or indirectly) in adversarial entities that are on any of the following US Government Lists (USG):
    Entity List
    Military End User (MEU) List
    Unverified List
    FCC Covered List

    Impose a 50% excise tax on the principal investment at the time of acquisition if an endowment invests in a company that is listed.
    Impose a 100% excise tax on the realized gains derived from listed investments one year after an entity is listed.
    BACKGROUND:
    Other countries have investment incentives not applicable to some foreign investments. For instance, China provides investment incentives through its tax code, but foreign investments are eligible only with the pre-approval of the Chinese government.
    Companies that have their business relations with the United States cut off or strictly restricted should not be allowed to sell securities in the U.S., or to U.S. persons, whether directly or indirectly through a mutual fund or ETF.
    Index mutual funds minimize their expenses by simply investing in all the companies in a certain market sector, without looking closely at the individual companies. There are unique difficulties in evaluating the risks of investing in Chinese companies. Americans should not invest in these companies without carefully evaluating the risk. This bill will keep these hard-to-evaluate Chinese stocks out of index mutual funds.
    University and college endowments are funds or assets donated to support various activities of the institution. These institutions often invest billions from their endowments into organizations and companies listed on the Department of Commerce’s Entity List. While maintaining a tax advantage, endowments can fund these entities even if they pose national security concerns.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lowell Man Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Guns, Drugs, Machinegun Conversion Devices

    Source: US FBI

    The devices, commonly called “switches,” could convert handguns into fully automatic weapons

    BOSTON – A Lowell man has pleaded guilty to multiple federal crimes after he was recorded illegally selling numerous guns, thousands of methamphetamine pills and machineguns.

    Billy Chan, a/k/a “Juju,” 20, pleaded guilty on June 6, 2025 to one count of engaging in the business of dealing in firearms without a license; one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine; one count of distribution and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine; and one count of transfer and possession of a machinegun. U.S. District Judge Angel Kelley scheduled sentencing for Sept. 17, 2025.

    On five different dates in Lowell between March 2023 and June 2023, Chan sold three handguns, four machinegun conversion devices and approximately 2,000 pills marketed as “Adderall,” to undercover law enforcement. Laboratory testing confirmed that the “Adderall” pills were homemade methamphetamine pills pressed with caffeine and designed to look like the genuine pharmaceutical product. Chan trafficked the counterfeit pills with an alleged co-conspirator who was a member of the Asian Boyz gang. The investigation revealed that, in 2023, Asian Boyz gang members and associates had access to a plentiful supply of counterfeit pills containing methamphetamine, which they distributed widely across the Merrimack Valley region.

    During a recorded meeting with a cooperating source, Chan said he worked at a machine shop, could make the machinegun conversion “switch” devices himself and gave instructions and demonstrations on how to install the “switches” on a pistol. A few days later, Chan sent the source a video of a person shooting a fully automatic handgun into the air, with the message: “I let my boys test the switch.”

     
    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Kimberly Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Superintendent Gregory C. Hudon of the Lowell Police Department made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Billerica, Haverhill, North Andover and Salem Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Fred M. Wyshak, III of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/PSN.

    This case is also part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendant in the case is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Viet Nam Hosts High-Level Forum to Promote Women’s Participation in United Nations Peacekeeping Operations

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    Ha Noi, Viet Nam – 12 June 2025 – Today, the Ministry of Public Security of Viet Nam (MPS), in partnership with the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women), successfully convened an international forum under the theme: “Enhancing the Participation of Female Police Officers in United Nations Peacekeeping Operations –Global perspectives and Viet Nam’s Contribution.”

    The event marks a significant milestone affirming the strong commitment of the Ministry of Public Security of Viet Nam to promoting gender equality and empowering female police officers to play a more active role in global peacekeeping efforts.

    The Forum brought together more than 100 national and international participants, including high-ranking officials such as Senior Lieutenant General Le Quoc Hung, Deputy Minister of Public Security of Viet Nam; H.E Jean-Pierre Lacroix, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations; Mr. Faisal Shahkar, United Nations Police Adviser and Director of the Police Division at the UN Department of Peace Operations. Representatives from relevant ministries, Vietnamese police peacekeepers, and embassies of Canada, the United Kingdom, Italy, Norway, Australia, Indonesia, the United States, among others, also participated.

    Viet Nam has actively deployed female police officers to United Nations peacekeeping missions, achieving a participation rate of over 30%—significantly surpassing the UN’s minimum target of 20%. This achievement has been recognized and commended by the international community. However, to ensure the sustainability, effectiveness, and long-term impact of such efforts, continued improvement of policy frameworks, expansion of international cooperation, and strengthened awareness across the police force on the role of women in peacekeeping are essential.

    In his opening remarks, Senior Lieutenant General Dr. Le Quoc Hung, Deputy Minister of Public Security, emphasized: “The Ministry of Public Security of Viet Nam has proactively implemented policies and strategies to increase the participation of female police officers in UN peacekeeping operations. This not only reflects Viet Nam’s international commitments but also demonstrates a modern, human-centered, and globally integrated approach to security.”

    United Nations Under-Secretary General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, expressed appreciation for Viet Nam’s steadfast support to peacekeeping operations, and for its commitment to achieve the goal of having more women in peacekeeping, particularly more female police officers. “There are several avenues to achieve that goal: first, by providing more training opportunities; second, by Member States nominating more female candidates including

    for leadership positions; and third, by creating work environments which are more welcoming for women. I look forward to continue strengthening the already excellent partnership with Viet Nam in all of these areas”.

    The forum featured in-depth discussions among experts and practitioners on issues including: the current status and challenges faced by female peacekeepers; UN policies and requirements on gender equality in peacekeeping; and experiences from other countries regarding the deployment of female police officers to peace operations. The event also highlighted current policy gaps and put forward concrete recommendations to enhance the role, representation, and quality of participation of female officers—including those from the Viet Nam People’s Public Security Force—in UN peacekeeping operations.

    Speaking at the Forum, Ms. Angela Pratt, Acting United Nations Resident Coordinator in Viet Nam, stated: “Increasing women’s representation in peacekeeping is not only a matter of gender equality—it also improves the effectiveness of peace operations. Viet Nam is currently exceeding global benchmarks for the deployment of female police officers. We encourage Viet Nam to continue its efforts, particularly in advancing women’s leadership and ensuring their presence in key mission positions.”

    UN Women and the United Nations system in Viet Nam reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Viet Nam in its peacekeeping journey through technical assistance, capacity building, and resource mobilization—including connecting Viet Nam to funding mechanisms such as the Elsie Initiative Fund.

    The Forum also reinforces Viet Nam’s implementation of its first-ever National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security (2024–2030), while contributing meaningfully to the global agenda under the United Nations Pact for the Future. The event concluded with a strong call for gender-responsive leadership and coherent policies to advance gender equality in peace and security.

    —

    Media Contacts: Vu Viet Hung Standing Office for UN Peacekeeping Operations, Ministry of Public Security Email: ppko@mps.gov.vn

    Hoang Bich Thao Communications and Advocacy Analyst, UN Women Viet Nam

    Email: hoang.thao@unwomen.org

    Press Release in English and Vietnamese.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: National security operation conducted

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (OSNS) and the Police Force’s National Security Department (NSD) conducted a joint operation today in respect of a suspected case of “collusion with a foreign country or with external elements to endanger national security”.

    The joint operation was conducted pursuant to the Hong Kong National Security Law, the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance and the Safeguarding National Security (Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) Regulation.

    In the case, six people and an organisation were suspected of having committed the offence of “collusion with a foreign country or with external elements to endanger national security” under the Hong Kong National Security Law between November 2020 and June 2024.

    The OSNS, with the approval from its Director, requested assistance and support from the NSD, including arranging interviews with the people involved in the case for the OSNS, pursuant to the Safeguarding National Security (Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) Regulation.

    The NSD, with warrants issued by the court under the Implementation Rules for Article 43 of the Hong Kong National Security Law, searched the places of residence of the six people and the office of the organisation involved in the case in a commercial building in Kwai Chung and seized exhibits, including bank documents and devices, for further investigation.

    The NSD also conducted interviews with the people involved in the case and, pursuant to the Implementation Rules for Article 43 of the Hong Kong National Security Law, required those people, by notices issued by the court, to surrender their travel documents.

    The case is still under investigation, and the NSD will continue to provide assistance and support to the OSNS in accordance with the law.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Khartoum before the war: the public spaces that held the city together

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ibrahim Z. Bahreldin, Associate Professor of Urban & Environmental Design, University of Khartoum

    What makes a public space truly public?

    In Khartoum, before the current conflict engulfed Sudan, the answer was not always a park, a plaza or a promenade.

    The city’s streets, tea stalls (sitat al-shai), protest sites and even burial spaces served as dynamic arenas of everyday life, political expression and informal resilience.

    In a recently published article, I studied 64 public spaces across pre-war Greater Khartoum, revealing a landscape far richer – and more contested – than standard urban classifications suggest. Specifically, I uncovered four classifications: formal, informal, privately owned and hybrid spaces – each alive with negotiation and everyday use.

    While some spaces were planned by colonial engineers or municipal authorities, many were carved out by communities: claimed, adapted and reimagined through use.

    My research offers valuable insights into the design and planning of Africa’s cities. As they grow and face mounting political and environmental pressures, it’s time to rethink how public spaces are defined and designed – not through imported models, but by listening to the ways people already make cities public.



    Read more:
    Sudan needs to accept its cultural diversity: urban planning can help rebuild the country and prevent future conflict

    Across the African continent, cities are growing fast – but not always fairly. Urban expansion often privileges gated developments, mega-projects and high-security zones while neglecting the everyday spaces where most people live, work and gather.

    In Sudan, these dynamics have been further complicated by conflict, displacement and economic instability. The ongoing war has disrupted not only governance, but also the spatial fabric of urban life.

    My paper aims to invite those involved in planning policies and post-conflict reconstruction to move beyond formal, western-centric models that often overlook how publicness actually unfolds in African cities: through informality, negotiation and social improvisation.

    Khartoum’s public spaces, as documented in my study, serve as diagnostic tools for understanding how cities survive crises, express identity and contest inequality.

    In the wake of war and displacement, these spaces will play a role in shaping how Sudan rebuilds not just infrastructure, but social cohesion.

    Pre-war Khartoum

    Khartoum’s public spaces cannot be understood through conventional categories – like formal squares and urban parks – alone. These formal squares represent only one layer of a much more plural and negotiated urban reality.

    Drawing on fieldwork and the documentation of 64 public spaces across Greater Khartoum, I identify four overlapping types that reflect how space is produced, accessed and contested.

    1. Formal public spaces: These include planned parks, ceremonial squares, civic plazas and administrative open spaces, often relics of colonial or postcolonial urban planning. They are defined by order, visibility and regulation. Mīdān Abbas, originally an active civic space in the centre of Khartoum, repeatedly reclaimed by informal traders and protesters, is one example, illustrating how even the most formal spaces can become contested. It was notably active during Sudan’s April 1985 uprising, serving as part of a wider network of civic spaces used for political mobilisation. Informal traders consistently transformed it into a bustling marketplace, embedding everyday commerce and social exchange into the formal urban fabric.

    2. Informal and insurgent spaces: These emerge beyond or against official planning logics – riverbanks used for gatherings, neglected lots transformed into social nodes or bridges appropriated by traders. They include spiritual sites like Sufi tombs, and protest spaces such as the sit-in zone outside the city’s army headquarters. These spaces reveal the city’s capacity for bottom-up urbanism and collective adaptation.

    3. Privately owned civic spaces: Shopping malls, privately managed parks and cultural cafés fall into this category. While they appear public, they are often classed, surveilled (monitored through cameras or security presence) or exclusionary. The rise of these spaces coincides with the decline of state-managed urban infrastructure, reflecting the turn in Sudanese urban governance.



    Read more:
    Sudan: the symbolic significance of the space protesters made their own

    4. Public “private” spaces: These spaces blur lines between ownership and use. They include mosque courtyards, school grounds, building frontages or underutilised university lawns that serve as informal gathering points. Access here is governed less by law and more by social codes, trust or class.

    Together, these typologies highlight that “publicness” in Khartoum is relational. It depends not only on who planned a space, but who uses it, how and under what conditions.

    Planning in African cities must therefore move beyond fixed zoning maps to embrace the layered, fluid and lived nature of urban space.

    Rebuilding, rethinking, resisting

    Post-conflict reconstruction in Sudan – and elsewhere in Africa – must resist the allure of “blank slate” master plans. Those involve rebuilding cities from scratch with sweeping, top-down designs that ignore existing social and spatial dynamics.

    Imported models, often guided by bureaucratic thinking or commercial incentives, risk erasing the very spaces where public life already thrives, albeit informally or invisibly.

    Rather than imposing formality, planners should recognise and strengthen the informal and hybrid systems that sustain civic life, especially in times of instability.

    Urban theorists working in and on the global south, such as AbdouMaliq Simone and the late Vanessa Watson, have long argued for planning frameworks that centre on everyday practices, adaptive use and spatial justice.

    Khartoum offers a compelling case.

    From the sit-ins of 2019 to tea stalls run by displaced women, public spaces in Sudan are not inert backdrops. They are active platforms of everyday life, resistance, care and community-making.

    Reconstruction must begin by asking: what spaces mattered to people before the war? Which ones fostered inclusion, dignity and visibility? Only then can new urban futures emerge, ones that are rooted in the practices of those who have always made the city public, even when the state did not.

    What makes spaces truly public?

    The public realm in Sudan has always been shaped through negotiation, sometimes with the state, often despite it.

    Rebuilding after war is not only about reconstructing buildings but also about reimagining the terms of belonging.

    This requires a shift from viewing public space as a fixed asset to understanding it as a dynamic process. Who gets to gather, to speak, to rest, to protest – these are the true measures of publicness.

    Understanding Khartoum’s pre-war public spaces isn’t a nostalgic exercise. It’s a necessary step towards building more inclusive, resilient and locally grounded cities in the wake of crisis.

    Ibrahim Bahreldin is a member of the Sudanese Institute of Architects and the City Planning Institute of Japan, and is registered as a professional architect and urban planner with the Sudanese Engineering Council and the Saudi Council of Engineers. He is also affiliated with the King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia.

    The Author receives funding from KAU Endowment (WAQF) at King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

    – ref. Khartoum before the war: the public spaces that held the city together – https://theconversation.com/khartoum-before-the-war-the-public-spaces-that-held-the-city-together-258632

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Transport conference opens

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The International Conference on Roads and Railways 2025 opened today.

    Themed on “Building Smart and Green Transport Infrastructure”, the conference takes place on two consecutive days at the Convention & Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai.

    Over 30 Mainland, overseas and local experts in road and railway development and industry leaders leading nearly 700 participants to jointly explore the latest worldwide practices and technological advancements of smart and green transport infrastructure, as well as the development direction of future major transport infrastructure in Hong Kong.

    Officiating at the ceremony, Financial Secretary Paul Chan said in the era of rapid technological advancement and growing climate urgency, the infrastructure has to be built smarter and greener, and the key strategy amidst is the planning approach of transit-oriented development which integrates high-density urban development with efficient public transport systems.

    Mr Chan noted that Hong Kong is happy to share the experiences on professional knowledge and expertise in transport infrastructure with the world. Taking the Northern Metropolis as an example, he mentioned that the development of this future major innovation and technology hub of Hong Kong with a projected population of 2.5 million and over 650,000 new jobs will be infrastructure-led and capacity-creating.

    He indicated that Hong Kong is committed to making the transport systems smarter and greener, and the Government also invests heavily in technology areas, including Artifical Intelligence (AI) and robotics, new energy and new materials, and more; they will contribute to enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the transportation system.

    The finance chief also pointed out that Hong Kong is Asia’s leading green bond market, accounting for nearly half of the region’s total issuance. The city is also pioneering innovative financing models to unlock capital for global infrastructure development.

    In her keynote speech, Secretary for Transport & Logistics Mable Chan said that the vision of the Government is to be committed to establishing a diverse and highly efficient public transport and road system, and promoting cross-boundary integration with the Greater Bay Area through the planning principles of infrastructure-led and capacity-building.

    She emphasised that the Government adopts a policy innovation and technological innovation dual-innovation mindset and approach in actively reviewing the regulatory frameworks, administrative procedures, design standards, guidelines, etc to enhance the efficiency and quality of transport infrastructure, and applying advanced technologies to reshape road and railway development, thereby enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of transport infrastructure development, with a view to realising the vision of building a livable, competitive and sustainable Hong Kong.

    During the conference, Ms Chan also had an interaction session with young engineers to understand the visions and expectations of the new blood in the industry regarding infrastructure development in Hong Kong, and share with them experiences on formulation of related policies.

    She also visited industry booths at the venue to understand the application of the latest technologies in construction and maintenance of transport infrastructure.

    Furthermore, visits to the works sites of the Central Kowloon Route and the MTR Tung Chung Line Extension will respectively be arranged for the participants on June 14 to understand the unique challenges and solutions on planning and construction of major roads and railway systems.

    Click here for the conference details.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Global outrage over Gaza has reinforced a ‘siege mentality’ in Israel – what are the implications for peace?

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Eyal Mayroz, Senior Lecturer in Peace and Conflict Studies, University of Sydney

    After more than 20 months of devastating violence in Gaza, the right-wing Israeli government’s pursuit of two irreconcilable objectives — “destroying” Hamas and releasing Israeli hostages — has left the coastal strip in ruins.

    At least 54,000 Palestinians have been killed by the Israeli military, close to two million have been forcibly displaced, and many are starving. These atrocities have provoked intense moral outrage around the world and turned Israel into a pariah state.

    Meanwhile, Hamas is resolved to retain control over Gaza, even at the cost of sacrificing numerous innocent Palestinian lives for its own survival.

    Both sides have been widely accused of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and mainly in Israel’s case, genocide.

    While the obstacles to ending the fighting remain stubbornly difficult to overcome, a troubling pattern has become increasingly apparent.

    The very outrage that succeeded in mobilising, sustaining and swelling international opinion against Israel’s actions — a natural psychological response to systematic injustice — has also reinforced a “siege mentality” already present among many in its Jewish population.

    This siege mentality may have undermined more proactive Israeli Jewish public support for a ceasefire and “day-after” concessions.

    A toxic cocktail of emotions

    Several dominant groups have shaped the conflict’s dynamics, each driven by a distinct set of emotional responses.

    For many Israeli Jews, the massacres of October 7 have aggravated longstanding feelings of victimhood and mistrust, fears of terrorist attacks, perceptions of existential threats, intergenerational traumas stemming from the Holocaust, and importantly, the strong sense of siege mentality.

    Together, these emotions have produced a toxic blend of anger, hatred and intense desire for revenge.

    For the Palestinians, Israel’s devastation of Gaza has followed decades of oppressive occupation, endless rights violations, humiliation and dispossession. This has exacerbated feelings of hopelessness, fear and abandonment by the world.

    The wider, global pro-Palestinian camp has been driven by moral outrage over the atrocities being committed in Gaza, alongside empathy for the victims and a sense of guilt over Western governments’ complicity in the killings through the provision of arms to Israel.

    Similarly, for Israel’s supporters around the world, anger and resentment have led to feelings of persecution, and in turn, victimisation and a sense of siege.

    Many on both sides have become prisoners of this moral outrage. And this has suppressed compassion for the suffering of the “other” — those we perceive as perpetrators of injustice against the side we support.

    Complaints of bias and content omissions

    Choosing sides in a conflict translates almost inevitably into biases in how we select, process and assess new information.

    We search for content that confirms what we already believe. And we discount information that would go against our pre-existing perceptions.

    This tendency also increases our sensitivity to omissions of facts we deem important for our cause.

    Since early in the crisis, voices in the two camps have accused the mainstream media in the West of biased coverage in favour of the “other”. These feelings have added fuel to the moral outrage and sense of injustice among both sides.

    Outrage in the pro-Israel camp has focused mainly on a perceived global conspiracy to absolve Hamas of any responsibility.

    In that view, Israel has been singled out as the only culpable party for the killings in Gaza. This is despite the fact Hamas unleashed the violence on October 7, used the Gazan population as human shields while hiding in tunnels, and refused to release all the Israeli hostages to end the fighting.

    On the other side, pro-Palestinian outrage has focused on “blatant” omissions by the media and Western governments of important historical facts that could provide context for the October 7 attacks.

    These included:

    On both sides, then, significant focus has been placed on omissions of facts that could support one’s own narrative or cause.

    A siege mentality in Israel

    Many Israelis continue to relive October 7 while remaining decidedly blind to the daily horrors their military inflicts on Gaza in their name. For them, the global outrage has reinforced a long-existing and potent siege mentality.

    This mindset has been fed by a reluctance to directly challenge Israeli soldiers risking their lives and other rally-around-the-flag effects. It’s also been bolstered by the desire for revenge and an intense campaign of dehumanising all Palestinians — Hamas or not.

    The so-called “ring of fire” created around Israel by Iran and its proxies —Hezbollah, Hamas, Islamic Jihad and the Houthis — has further amplified this siege mentality. Their stated objective is the destruction of Israel.

    I’ve conducted an exploratory study of Israeli media, government statements and English Jewish diaspora publications from October 2023 to May 2025, reviewing some 5,000 articles and video clips.

    In this research, I’ve identified strong, consistent uses of siege mentality language, phrases such as:

    In a detailed analysis of 65 English articles from major Israeli outlets, such as The Jerusalem Post and Times of Israel, and Jewish publications in the United States, United Kingdom and Australia, I found siege mentality language in nearly nine out of ten searches.

    Importantly, nearly half of these occurrences were in response to pro-Palestinian rhetoric or advocacy: campus protests and actions targeting Israelis or Jews, university groups refusing to condemn October 7, or foreign governments’ recognition of Palestinian statehood.

    The sharp increase in attacks on Jews and Jewish installations since October 7 has also sparked global debates over rising antisemitism. Distinguishing honest critiques of Israel’s actions in Gaza from antisemitic rhetoric has become contentious, as has the use of antisemitism claims by Israeli leaders to dismiss much of this criticism.

    Moving forward

    When viewed through the prism of injustice, the strong asymmetry between Israeli and Palestinian suffering has long been apparent. But it’s grown even wider following Israel’s brutal responses to October 7.

    The culpability of Israel’s government and Hamas for the atrocities in Gaza is incontestable. However, many in the Israeli-Jewish public must also share some of the blame for refusing to stand up to – or by actively supporting – their extremist government’s policies.

    The pro-Palestine movement’s justice-driven campaigns have done much to combat international bystanding and motivate governments to act. At the same time, the unwillingness to unite behind a clearer unequivocal condemnation of Hamas’ massacres may have been a strategic mistake.

    By ignoring or minimising the targeting of civilians, the hostage-taking and the reports of sexual violence committed by Hamas, a vocal minority of advocates has weakened the movement’s otherwise strong moral authority with some of the audiences it needed to influence most. First and foremost, this is people in Israel itself.

    My research suggests that while injustice-based outrage can be effective at generating attention and engagement, it can also produce negative side effects. One adverse impact has been the polarisation of the public debate over Gaza, which, in turn, has contributed to the intensification of Israelis’ siege mentality.

    Noam Chomsky, a well-known Jewish academic and fierce critic of Israel’s treatment of Palestinians, once noted in relation to Palestinian advocacy:

    You have to ask yourself, when you conduct some tactic, what the effect is going to be on the victims. You don’t pursue a tactic because it makes you feel good.

    The question, then, is how to harness the strong mobilising power of moral outrage for positive ends – preventing bystander apathy to atrocities – without the potential negative consequences. These include polarisation, expanded violence, feeding a siege mentality (when applicable), and making peace negotiations more difficult.

    The children in Gaza and elsewhere in the world deserve advocacy that will prioritise their welfare over the release of moral outrage — however justified.

    So, what approaches would most effectively help end the suffering?

    Most immediately, the solution rests primarily with Israel and, by extension, the Trump administration as the only international actor powerful enough to force Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to halt the killings.

    Beyond that, and looking toward the future, justice-based activism should be grounded in universal moral principles, acknowledge all innocent victims, and work to create space for both societies to recognise each other’s humanity.

    I served as a counterterrorism specialist with the Israeli Defence Forces in the 1980s.

    – ref. Global outrage over Gaza has reinforced a ‘siege mentality’ in Israel – what are the implications for peace? – https://theconversation.com/global-outrage-over-gaza-has-reinforced-a-siege-mentality-in-israel-what-are-the-implications-for-peace-258561

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • Netanyahu to Carney: World leaders express shock and grief over Air India plane crash

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Top leaders of the world continue to express their heartfelt condolences and deep grief at the tragic crash of an Air India flight AI 171 in Ahmedabad on Thursday. The London-bound aircraft, carrying over 200 people, crashed shortly after takeoff near Meghani Nagar.

    “To my friend PMO India Narendra Modi and the people of India, I was saddened to learn of the tragic Air India crash. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the fallen,” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu posted on X.

    Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake said that he was “deeply saddened” by the tragic crash of Air India flight with the civilian casualties on the ground being equally heartbreaking.

    “I am deeply saddened by the tragic crash of Air India flight AI171 near Ahmedabad today. We offer our heartfelt condolences to the families of all those affected onboard. Equally heartbreaking are the civilian casualties on the ground, including young medical students whose lives and futures were struck by this tragedy. At this moment of deep sorrow, the people of Sri Lanka stand in solidarity with India. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone impacted,” Dissanayake posted on X.

    Mark Carney, the Prime Minister of Canada, mentioned that Canada is deeply saddened by the crash of a London-bound Air India plane in Ahmedabad.

    “Devastated to learn of the crash of a London-bound Air India plane in Ahmedabad. My thoughts are with the loved ones of everyone on board. Canada’s transportation officials are in close contact with counterparts and I am receiving regular updates as the response to this tragedy unfolds,” he said.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Canada for the G7 Summit, next week. Cyprus, another country PM Modi is expected to visit en route to Canada, also expressed shock over the Ahmedabad air crash.

    “Dear PM Narendra Modi, I express my heartfelt condolences to you and the people of India following the devastating loss of Air India Flight AI171. The people of Cyprus mourn with you. In this time of sorrow, we stand by our Indian friends with solidarity and compassion,” stated Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides.

    Former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who was visiting India recently, also took to X to offer his condolences.

    “Akshata and I are deeply shocked and distressed by the news of the Air India tragedy. There is a unique bond between our two nations and our thoughts and prayers go out to the British and Indian families who have lost loved ones today,” he stated.

    Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot, who had just hosted External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in Brussels, said that he was “shocked and deeply saddened” by the crash of the Air India flight near the airport in Ahmedabad.

    “Our thoughts are with the victims, the rescuers on the ground, and the people of India in these painful moments. Belgium stands in solidarity with India and all affected communities. Our services are closely following developments,” he said.

    Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a message of condolence to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the passenger plane crash in Ahmedabad..

    “Please accept the deepest condolences over the tragic consequences of a passenger plane crash in Ahmedabad. Kindly convey the words of sincere sympathy and support to the families and near ones of the victims, as well as wishes for a speedy recovery to all those injured in this catastrophe,” said Putin

    President of Maldives, Mohamed Muizzu also expressed grief and extended solidarity with the Government and people of India.

    “I express profound sadness at the tragic crash of Air India flight AI 171 near Ahmedabad. At this difficult time, the government and people of Maldives stand in solidarity with the people and the Government of India,” Muizzu posted on X.

    Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Union, too expressed shock over the “heartbreaking news” from India.

    “My deepest condolences to the families and loved ones grieving this terrible loss. We share your pain. Dear Narendra Modi, Europe stands in solidarity with you and the people of India in this moment of sorrow,” she said.

    British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that the scenes emerging of a London-bound plane carrying many British nationals crashing in the Indian city of Ahmedabad are devastating.

    “I am being kept updated as the situation develops, and my thoughts are with the passengers and their families at this deeply distressing time,” Starmer posted on X.

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also took to X, offering his deepest condolences on the tragic accident.

    “Horrible news of a passenger plane crash in India. My deepest condolences to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the entire people of India on this tragic day. Our thoughts are with all victims’ relatives and close ones in India, the UK, Portugal, and Canada. We share your shock and grief on this tragic day. We all pray for as many lives to be saved as possible and wish a speedy recovery to those injured,” Zelensky posted on X.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Gregory W. Meeks Introduces Legislation to Posthumously Bestow Congressional Gold Medal Honor to Charles B. Rangel 

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Gregory W Meeks (5th District of New York)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Gregory W. Meeks (NY-05), in partnership with Democratic leaders, has introduced legislation to posthumously award the esteemed Congressional Gold Medal to former Congressman Charles B. Rangel, who represented New York’s 13th congressional district in the United States House of Representatives for nearly 50 years. His congressional career included a Chairmanship tenure on the influential Ways and Means Committee and countless legislative achievements.   

    The following Members join Rep. Meeks as original cosponsors of the legislation: Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, Congressman Adriano Espaillat, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke, Congressman Ritchie Torres, and Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Richard E. Neal. 

    “Congressman Charles Rangel embodied the true spirit of uplifting one’s community,” said Congressman Gregory W. Meeks. “Known as the ‘Lion of Lenox Avenue,’ he proudly represented the people of Harlem with unparalleled passion. He was a fierce advocate for justice and equity, consistently using his platform to uplift those whose voices too often went unheard. He authored more landmark legislation than anyone in Congress. He continuously broke barriers as a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus and serving as the first Black Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee. Through the creation of the historic Rangel Fellows Program at the U.S. Department of State, he helped pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive Foreign Service. Most importantly to me, he was a mentor and dear friend who will be greatly missed. His legacy will certainly inspire generations of leaders to come.”  

    “Charlie Rangel was a giant — a force of nature who helped shape the soul of New York, the heart of Harlem, and the conscience of the Congress,” said Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer. “From the battlefields of Korea, to the halls of Capitol Hill, where he became one of the most influential voices for justice, equality, and opportunity, Charlie never stopped fighting for those too often left out, looked over and left behind. A founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus and a longtime leader of the powerful Ways and Means Committee, Charlie Rangel made history not for its own sake, but to open the doors of power and opportunity to others. He gave voice to the voiceless and power to the powerless, and his beloved Harlem — and our entire nation — are better for his service. I was proud to serve with Congressman Rangel for my 18 years in the House and to call him a friend for many more; so it is a privilege to introduce legislation to award him the Congressional Gold Medal to honor his legacy and to inspire future generations of leaders.” 

    “Congressman Charles B. Rangel served our nation with distinction and honor, fighting for the American people and delivering for the constituencies of Harlem, El Barrio, Upper Manhattan, and the Northwest Bronx, which he represented in Congress for nearly 50 years,” said Congressman Adriano Espaillat. “A renowned feat, impactful in his service and commitment to our nation and dedication to all whose lives he touched along the way. It is with gratitude and a tremendous level of respect that I introduce this legislation with the support of my U.S. Senate and House colleagues to recognize the extraordinary life and legacy of Congressman Rangel, the Lion of Lenox Avenue, forever enshrining his indelible mark on American policy and our nation’s history.” 

    “Charles Rangel was a true New Yorker and a beloved son of Harlem, who earned his recognition as ‘the Lion of Lenox Ave,’ through a lifetime of tireless service to the community he held so close to his heart,” said Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke. “This devoted public servant was a mentor to many and a friend to many more, and I’ll always consider it one of the great blessings of my life to have called him both. As a decorated war hero, founder of the Congressional Black Caucus, and leader within Congress for decades, Charlie’s legacy is absolute and undeniable. And it deserves to be celebrated. I can think of no man more deserving of a Congressional Gold Medal, and I am proud to join this effort to ensure his name is forever tied to Congress’ highest honorific.”  

    “Charlie Rangel was a lion of Harlem, a legend of Congress, and a proud son of New York,” Congressman Ritchie Torres. “He spent nearly five decades in the House lifting up the voices of those too often unheard. His leadership in civil rights and public service left an indelible mark on our city and our country. I’m proud to support the effort to honor his towering legacy with a Congressional Gold Medal, a fitting tribute to a life of extraordinary service.” 
     
    “Charlie Rangel will be remembered as a brilliant legislator and a devoted public servant who spent his life fighting for fairness and justice,” said Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Richard E. Neal. “Whether it was his decorated service in Korea or his trailblazing ascent and tenure as a Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, he was a steward of change who redefined what was possible for millions of Americans. His impact and legacy on the development of landmark legislation, most notably, the Affordable Care Act, speak louder than any award ever could, but there is no one more deserving of the Congressional Gold Medal.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Metro rail, highway, and logistics projects reviewed at 95th NPG meeting under PM GatiShakti Plan

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The 95th meeting of the Network Planning Group (NPG), under the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, was held today to assess a series of infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing multimodal connectivity and improving logistics efficiency across India. Five major proposals, including a metro rail extension, two highway initiatives, and two multi-modal logistics parks, were reviewed for their alignment with the principles of integrated infrastructure planning and last-mile connectivity.

    One of the key projects discussed was the Ahmedabad Metro Rail Project Phase-2A, proposed by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). This project involves the extension of the metro line by 6.032 kilometers from Koteshwar Metro Station to the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The extension is designed to significantly boost urban mobility in Ahmedabad by offering quicker and more direct access to the airport for commuters, staff, and residents. Developed in collaboration with the airport authority, municipal corporations, and other local and central stakeholders, the project is expected to ease city congestion and enhance the city’s public transport infrastructure.

    The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) presented two highway development projects. The first is the construction of an 8-lane access-controlled highway along NH-248S to improve connectivity to the proposed Vadhavan Port in Maharashtra. Designed to support one of India’s most ambitious port projects, the highway will facilitate the movement of cargo to and from the port, which is set to become one of the top ten container ports globally. The highway is projected to handle over 57,000 passenger car units daily by 2030 and will link directly with the Delhi–Mumbai Expressway and NH-48, ensuring seamless freight evacuation via road and rail.

    The second highway project is a 4-lane elevated corridor in Jodhpur city, which will run 7.63 kilometers from Mahamandir to Akhaliya Chouraha. Aligned along NH-62 and NH-125, the elevated road aims to alleviate heavy urban traffic by bypassing 28 junctions and reducing peak-hour travel times by approximately 20 minutes. The corridor is designed to accommodate future traffic growth and will improve intra-city movement and regional connectivity in Rajasthan.

    Two proposals for multi-modal logistics parks were also reviewed to support India’s broader logistics modernization efforts. The first, MMLP Hyderabad, will be developed in Parkibanda village in Telangana’s Medak district. Spanning 315 acres, this logistics hub is expected to handle 1.47 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo annually by 2028, with its capacity scaling up to nearly 20 MMT by 2070. Its strategic location near NH-44, Manoharabad Railway Station, and the upcoming Regional Ring Road ensures excellent connectivity to industrial clusters around Hyderabad.

    The second logistics park, MMLP Patna, is proposed at Jaitiya village in Bihar’s Fatuah Taluka. Covering 106 acres, this facility is expected to manage 5.43 MMT of cargo annually by 2071. With proximity to Top Sarthua Railway Station, Patna Airport, and multiple national and state highways, the park will be a key node in Eastern India’s logistics network. It will facilitate regional trade and strengthen connections to major hubs like Kolkata and Haldia Port.

  • MIL-OSI USA: Assessing the Global Climate in May 2025

    Source: US National Oceanographic Data Center

    May Highlights:

    • May and March–May were much warmer than normal for the globe.
    • Global land average precipitation in May was record high, according to preliminary data.
    • Northern Hemisphere snow cover extent was below-normal for the month.
    • Sea ice extent was below average for both poles.
    • Global tropical cyclone activity was below normal with two named storms.
     Map of global selected significant climate anomalies and events in May 2025.

    Temperature

    Globally, May 2025 was the second-warmest May in NOAA’s 176-year record, with a temperature 1.98°F (1.10°C) higher than the 20th-century baseline. This is 0.14°F (0.08°C) cooler than the record set last May (2024). According to NCEI’s Global Annual Temperature Outlook, it is very likely that 2025 will rank among the five warmest years on record, with less than a 1% chance of ranking as the warmest year on record. 

     Land and Ocean Temperature Percentiles for May 2025 (°C). Red indicates warmer than average and blue indicates colder than average.

    May temperatures were above average across much of the globe’s surface, in particular across most ocean areas and parts of every continent. Warm temperature departures were most notable in northern North America, the central and southern parts of South America, the British Isles and surrounding ocean, northern and southwestern Asia and across much of the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Pockets of below-average temperatures were present across parts of Alaska, eastern Europe, India and Antarctica.

    Regionally, North America, South America, Asia, Africa and the Arctic all saw their May temperature rank among the 10 highest on record. Europe, Oceania and the Antarctic region also had above-average May temperatures, although they did not rank among the 20 warmest on record. India, parts of the northern Atlantic Ocean, the eastern and southeastern Pacific Ocean, central and eastern Europe and eastern Antarctica had May temperatures that were below average.

    Globally, the March–May 2025 surface temperature was the second-highest in NOAA’s 176-year record, just behind the record set in 2024. This three-month period, defined as meteorological spring for the Northern Hemisphere and autumn in the Southern Hemisphere, was also the second warmest on record for both hemispheres individually.

    Surface Temperature Departure from the 1991–2020 Average for May 2025 (°C). Red indicates warmer than average and blue indicates colder than average.

    Precipitation

    May saw varied precipitation patterns globally. Many regions experienced drier-than-average conditions, including parts of North and South America, as well as northern Europe, southwestern Asia, southern Australia and areas in Russia and China. Southern Alaska, the eastern U.S., northern and southern parts of South America, northern and southeastern Australia and widespread parts of Asia had wetter-than-average conditions. Preliminary data indicate that the May 2025 globe land, averaged as a whole, had the wettest May in the historical record, which spans from 1979 to present.

    Snow Cover

    The Northern Hemisphere snow cover extent was the 15th-smallest May extent on record, with 370,000 square miles below average. Snow cover over North America and Greenland was below average by 200,000 square miles and was the 10th-smallest snow cover extent in the 59-year record. Eurasia was also below average by 170,000 square miles–the 16th-smallest extent for May. Below-normal snow cover was observed over Canada, parts of the Rockies in the United States and northern parts of Eurasia, as well as a band from western Mongolia through western China.

    Sea Ice

    Global sea ice extent was 550,000 square miles below the 1991–2020 average, ranking as the fifth-smallest May extent in the historical record. Arctic sea ice extent was also below average by 140,000 square miles, tying with 2004 as the seventh-smallest extent in the 47-year record. The Barents, Okhotsk and Bering Seas had lower than normal sea ice extent. The Antarctic sea ice extent was the fifth-smallest for May at 410,000 square miles below average.

    Map of the Arctic (left) and Antarctic (right) sea ice extent in May 2025.

    Tropical Cyclones

    Globally, tropical cyclone activity was below normal during May, with only two named storms. Neither storm reached tropical cyclone strength. One storm formed in the East Pacific basin, while the other formed in the Australian region. 
     

    For a more complete summary of climate conditions and events, see our May 2025 Global Climate Report or explore our Climate at a Glance Global Time Series.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Issa Introduces Valor Has No Expiration Act; Heroes to be Recognized Past Time Limits

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-50)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Congressional Medal of Honor may be awarded for acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty that occurred decades ago because of new legislation authored by Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48).

    The Valor Has No Expiration Act extends and expands a key provision from the 1996 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that waived the five-year limitation for Medal of Honor consideration—but only for actions occurring between 1940 and 1990, and only for classified “intelligence activities.” Rep. Issa’s bill specifically removes this arbitrary end date and expands the criteria to include acts that were classified or withheld from public record. Current law states that service members must be recommended and awarded within five years.

    “Valor never expires – and neither should the opportunity for our bravest heroes to be recognized with our highest honor,” said Rep. Issa. “There is no reason why those who went above and beyond are ineligible for the Medal of Honor due to an arbitrary time standard, when their true account may not be known or was kept classified for decades.”

    Rep. Issa specifically cited his friend and constituent Royce Williams as both the inspiration and example of why the Act is necessary.

    In 1952 during the Korean Conflict, then-Lieutenant Williams engaged in one of the most dramatic and heroic dogfights in U.S. history, single-handedly taking on and downing multiple Soviet MiG-15 fighters. His action, however, was kept classified for more than 50 years before becoming public, which made Williams ineligible for the Medal of Honor.

    “Captain Royce Williams – now 100 years young — is an American hero of the highest order. Every American should know his story and what he did on that day nearly 73 years ago should go unrecognized no longer,” said Rep. Issa. “With this reform legislation, America’s heroes – whether undiscovered, unknown, or unrevealed – can be honored as they should. Acts of valor have no expiration date.”

    Full text of the Valor Has No Expiration Act can be found here. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Bangladesh should rein in terrorists: India after vandalisation of Tagore’s ancestral home

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India on Thursday strongly condemned the vandalisation of the ancestral home of Rabindranath Tagore – historically called the Rabindra Kachharibari – in the Sirajganj district of Bangladesh, urging the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government in the country to take strict action against the extremist elements involved in the incident.

    “We strongly condemn the despicable attack and vandalisation of the ancestral home of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore by a mob on June 8, 2025. The violent act is a disgrace to the memory and the inclusive philosophy and the teachings that the Nobel laureate espoused in Bangladesh. The attack falls in a broad pattern of systematic attempts by extremists to erase the symbols of tolerance and eviscerate the synchronic culture and cultural legacy of Bangladesh,” said Randhir Jaiswal, Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), during a weekly media briefing.

    “We urge the interim government to rein in the terrorists and take strict action against the perpetrators to prevent recurrence of such incidents that sadly have become a repetitive feature,” he added.

    The MEA also reiterated that it wants to establish a positive and constructive relationship with the South Asian neighbour.

    “Our approach to engagement with Bangladesh and our ties with the country are well known. I have stated this from this podium several times. We seek a positive and constructive relationship with Bangladesh, one that is anchored in the aspirations of the people of both countries,” mentioned Jaiswal.

    Bangladeshi media reported that a mob of 50–60 people broke into the Rabindra Kachharibari, which also houses a memorial museum, and vandalised the auditorium and custodian’s office, causing significant damage to the historic building.

    “There were visitors at the site who panicked due to the sudden attack. We took shelter during the attack and informed police immediately,” Bangladesh’s Daily Star quoted Habibur Rahman, a custodian of the Kachharibari, as saying.

    One of the visitors, Enamul Haque, who had arrived with his family, criticised the attack. “Criminal activities at a historic site like Shahzadpur Rabindra Kachharibari are unacceptable,” he said.

    Confirming the incident, Shahzadpur Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC)stated, “A complaint was lodged earlier. We are investigating the matter.”

    The leader of the opposition in the West Bengal assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, had also raised the issue during his speech at the Indian Council for Cultural Relations in Kolkata, on Wednesday.

    “The sacred legacy of our most precious Kobiguru Rabindranath Thakur was desecrated in Sirajganj, Bangladesh, where a mob led by BNP and Chhatra Shibir activists vandalised the historic Rabindra Kachari Bari. This shameful and utterly disgraceful act of destruction targetted a site that embodies Bengal’s cultural soul and Tagore’s universal message of humanity. Windows shattered, furniture ruined, and a Global Icon’s memory insulted,” he posted on X.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Secretary for Health expresses deep sorrow over passing of Mr Ho Tsu-kwok

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Mr Ho Tsu-kwok, a former Standing Committee Member of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, and extended deep condolences to his family.

         Professor Lo said today (June 12), “Mr Ho will be remembered for his unreserved commitment to the country and to Hong Kong, as well as his outspokenness. Even though he suffered from a critical illness caused by tobacco, he generously and courageously shared his own experiences to raise public awareness on tobacco hazards. He made every effort to support the Government in promoting tobacco control and urged members of the public to stay away from tobacco hazards, in particular to protect young people from being enticed by ‘sugar-coated poison’ to try smoking. His sincere words have inspired many people. May he rest in peace and free from the suffering caused by tobacco. He will be sorely missed.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE mourns Ho Tsu-kwok

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Executive John Lee today expressed sorrow over the passing of Ho Tsu-kwok and extended his deepest condolences to Mr Ho’s family.

    He said Mr Ho was a successful entrepreneur who made contributions to the media industry over the years and described him as benevolent.

    “He has served as a Standing Committee member and Hong Kong Special Administrative Region member of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, actively involving in national affairs and providing insights on the long-term development of Hong Kong. A man of benevolence, Mr Ho donated to and supported a wide range of charitable causes.”

    He was awarded the Grand Bauhinia Medal in 2014.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Joint operation by Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR and Police National Security Department

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Joint operation by Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR and Police National Security Department

         The Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (OSNS) and the National Security Department (NSD) of the Hong Kong Police Force, pursuant to the Hong Kong National Security Law, the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance and the Safeguarding National Security (Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) Regulation, conducted a joint operation today (June 12) in respect of a suspected case of “collusion with a foreign country or with external elements to endanger national security”.Issued at HKT 22:12

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Nuclear safeguards: AUKUS statement to the IAEA Board of Governors, June 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Nuclear safeguards: AUKUS statement to the IAEA Board of Governors, June 2025

    Statement by Australia, the UK and the US to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors on IAEA safeguards and AUKUS

    Thank you, Chair.

    I take the floor on behalf of Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States to respond to continued false claims that purposefully mischaracterize AUKUS partners’ intentions and attempt to undermine the independence, integrity, and authority of the IAEA.  

    We reiterate that this item has not been adopted as a standing agenda item by the Board and does not have consensus support among Board members. It is a distraction from the Board’s important work on other pressing issues. We support discussion of naval nuclear propulsion at the appropriate time, such as when the Director General releases reports on the topic. As we have always said, Australia’s arrangement will be referred to the Board for appropriate action guided by the DG’s technical assessment of the arrangement’s nonproliferation provisions when the time is right.

    AUKUS partners remain committed to transparency as we work to set the highest nonproliferation standard, and Director General Grossi has repeatedly expressed satisfaction with AUKUS partners’ engagement and transparency. As a demonstration of our commitment to transparency, I would like to highlight the side event held at the NPT Preparatory Committee in New York on 1 May.  AUKUS partners value sessions such as these to openly offer clarity on how we are developing the non-proliferation approach for Australia’s program, consistent with our respective international obligations.

    As we have said, when we discuss setting the highest nonproliferation standard, we are not seeking to establish a model arrangement for others.  Australia’s arrangement, once finalized, will demonstrate that it is possible to apply the highest non-proliferation standard to naval nuclear propulsion under an Article 14 arrangement in a way that will allow the IAEA to fulfill its technical objectives: verifying there has been no diversion of nuclear material, no misuse of nuclear facilities, and no undeclared nuclear material or activities in Australia. For other Member States seeking naval nuclear propulsion programs, it will be up to them to negotiate directly with the IAEA on appropriate verification arrangements based on the unique nature of the program. Although, we trust that other such Member States likewise will support a high standard and respect the integrity and independence of the IAEA.

    The commitment to a robust Article 14 arrangement was included in our countries’ legal obligations in the AUKUS Naval Nuclear Propulsion Agreement (ANNPA), including through the requirement that the United States and UK not transfer any nuclear material to Australia for naval nuclear propulsion until Australia and the IAEA have such an arrangement in place. As we have prioritized since the start of the AUKUS partnership in 2021, ANNPA, which entered into force in January, is yet another way that we are demonstrating our commitment to setting the highest standard of nonproliferation in an open and transparent manner.

    Chair,

    Some countries continue to make the same false claims about the AUKUS partnership. We have spent considerable time addressing these in the past, both here at the Board and in other venues. To be clear, AUKUS in no way involves cooperation on nuclear weapons. The AUKUS partnership is fully consistent with partners’ respective international obligations under the NPT and safeguards agreements. Again, the transfer of nuclear material under the AUKUS partnership will only proceed once we can ensure it is done in a manner consistent with the highest nonproliferation standard.

    We will continue our open and transparent approach, including by providing an update under Any Other Business, and will engage in good faith with Member States on genuine questions as we continue to develop our partnership.

    Thank you, Chair.

    Updates to this page

    Published 12 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: AAIB Update: Air India flight AI171, Ahmedabad to London Gatwick

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    AAIB Update: Air India flight AI171, Ahmedabad to London Gatwick

    Update on the fatal accident which occurred in Ahmedabad, India on 12 June 2025

    The UK Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has formally offered its assistance to the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau, India. In addition, the UK AAIB will have expert status in the Indian safety investigation. This is in accordance with ICAO Annex 13 because UK citizens were on board the aircraft.  

    We are deploying a multidisciplinary investigation team to India to support the Indian led investigation.

    Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragic accident.

    British nationals who require consular assistance or have concerns about friends or family should call the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO): 020 7008 5000.

    Updates to this page

    Published 12 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Government e-Marketplace surges past ₹4 lakh crore GMV in just 10 months of FY 2024-25

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Under the transformative leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who completes 11 years in office, the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) has achieved a remarkable milestone by surpassing a Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) of ₹4.09 lakh crore within the first 10 months of Fiscal Year 2024-25. This feat, announced by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, reflects a nearly 50% growth compared to the same period in the previous fiscal year, cementing GeM’s role as a cornerstone of India’s digital procurement revolution.

    Launched in August 2016, GeM has emerged as a trusted platform for transparent and efficient public procurement, serving over 1.6 lakh government entities and 22.5 lakh sellers and service providers. The platform’s GMV for FY 2024-25, achieved by January 23, 2025, outpaces last year’s historic high of ₹4 lakh crore, driven significantly by the services segment, which accounted for ₹2.54 lakh crore (62% of total GMV). The product segment contributed ₹1.55 lakh crore (38%). The services segment’s near-100% growth, fueled by the addition of 19 new service categories, has enabled government entities to procure specialized services like debit card printing, bulk email services, dark fiber leasing, and data center operations management with enhanced efficiency.

    Central government entities, particularly the ministries of Coal, Defence, Petroleum & Natural Gas, Power, and Steel, have been pivotal in this surge. The Ministry of Coal led as the top procurer, with a transacted order value of nearly ₹1.63 lakh crore, including over 320 high-value bids worth approximately ₹42,000 crore for handling and transport services by Coal PSUs. GeM’s versatility is evident in its facilitation of both everyday essentials, such as rations and stationery, and high-end, complex items like advanced technology systems and missile components.

    The platform’s operational excellence was further highlighted by processing 49,960 orders in a single day during FY 2024-25, showcasing its robustness and widespread adoption. Since its inception, GeM has facilitated over 2.59 crore orders, amassing a cumulative GMV of more than ₹11.64 lakh crore. Continuous reforms, including simplified processes and reduced transaction charges, have made GeM more accessible, particularly for Micro and Small Enterprises, startups, and women-led businesses.

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Cabinet assures nation of the monitoring of new COVID variant

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Thursday, June 12, 2025

    Cabinet has assured South Africans that government, through the Department of Health, is closely monitoring the emergence of a new COVID-19 variant, known as Nimbus or NB.1.8.1.

    “Cabinet calls on all citizens to ensure good hygiene practices, including avoiding unnecessary hand shaking, washing hands with soap, covering the mouth when coughing, using a mask when one has flu and staying home when one is not feeling well,” Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Thursday, in Cape Town.

    This as the virus is associated with a rise in cases in certain regions of Asia.

    “During the COVID-19 pandemic, we demonstrated that through these simple measures we could reduce the spread of respiratory illness.”

    The Minister was briefing members of the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday, 11 June 2025.

    According to Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, South Africa has robust surveillance systems that is managed by the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD).

    READ | SA closely monitoring new COVID variant spreading across Asia

    The NICD manages a comprehensive sentinel surveillance programme that systematically tests for key respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and RSV. Currently, data show very low SARS-CoV-2 activity. –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: International Conference on Roads and Railways 2025 opens today (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The International Conference on Roads and Railways 2025 co-organised by the Highways Department and the Hong Kong Institution of Highways and Transportation opened today (June 12). Themed on “Building Smart and Green Transport Infrastructure”, the conference takes place on two consecutive days at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, with over 30 Mainland, overseas and local experts in road and railway development and industry leaders leading nearly 700 participants to jointly explore the latest worldwide practices and technological advancements of smart and green transport infrastructure, as well as the development direction of future major transport infrastructure in Hong Kong through thematic speeches and panel discussions. Representatives from various consulates, industry leaders, scholars and government officials also attended the conference this morning.

         The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, officiated at the ceremony and said that roads and railways have long been the backbone of economic growth and social advancement. In the era of rapid technological advancement and growing climate urgency, the infrastructure has to be built smarter and greener, and the key strategy amidst is the planning approach of transit-oriented development which integrates high-density urban development with efficient public transport systems. Mr Chan also said that Hong Kong is happy to share the experiences on professional knowledge and expertise in transport infrastructure with the world. Taking the Northern Metropolis as an example, he mentioned that the development of this future major innovation and technology hub of Hong Kong with a projected population of 2.5 million and over 650 000 new jobs will be “infrastructure-led” and “capacity-creating”. He indicated that Hong Kong is committed to making the transport systems smarter and greener, and the Government also invests heavily in technology areas, including AI and robotics, new energy and new materials, and more; they will contribute to enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the transportation system. He also pointed out that Hong Kong is Asia’s leading green bond market, accounting for nearly half of the region’s total issuance. The city is also pioneering innovative financing models to unlock capital for global infrastructure development.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NSL 5th anniversary expo opens

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Justice Paul Lam today officiated at the opening ceremony of the “5th Anniversary of Promulgation & Implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law Thematic Exhibition” at the Museum of History.

    Mr Lam reiterated the three “must-nots” – must not forget history, turn a blind eye to reality and stand idly by.

    He said traditional Chinese wisdom has it that “history, if not forgotten, can serve as a guide for the future”.

    “We all surely remember the 2019 legislative amendment turmoil, which posed a grave threat to national security and severely undermined the peaceful and stable environment we took for granted.”

    Mr Lam also stated that “remain vigilant in times of peace” is another traditional Chinese wisdom.

    “Although Hong Kong society has restored stability and national security, threats are often not immediately visible. It is obvious that hostile states and forces continue to try to suppress our country’s development.

    “Since national security is closely related to individuals’ well-being, people must naturally take concrete steps and shoulder responsibilities in safeguarding national security.”

    Mr Lam pointed out that a robust legal system has long been the cornerstone of Hong Kong’s success. It is the prerequisite for the city to thrive as an international financial, trade, and shipping centre.

    On the foundation of three “must-nots”, Hong Kong must uphold the rule of law in safeguarding national security, he added.

    Also officiating at the ceremony, Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung said safeguarding national sovereignty, security, and development interests is not only a constitutional duty of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, but also a fundamental obligation of every citizen.

    Mr Tang further stated that hostile forces have not given up and he reminded citizens to remain vigilant against the risks.

    The security chief explained that external hostile forces continue to attempt to undermine national security through smears and “sanctions” while anti-China destabilising elements in the city who have fled overseas continue to engage in activities and behaviours that threaten national security.

    Local terrorism and “soft resistance”, where individuals with ulterior motives exploit fake news and misinformation to divide society and incite hatred are the other risks, Mr Tang added.

    The exhibition is now open, with the aim to facilitate the public’s understanding of and appreciation for the hard-won situation that Hong Kong is now enjoying, and to motivate all to work together to help the city shine on the global stage.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Trident Announces up to $500 Million Financing Plan for XRP Treasury and appoints Chaince Securities LLC as the strategic advisor

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, June 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Trident Digital Tech Holdings Ltd (“Trident” or the “Company,” NASDAQ: TDTH), a leading catalyst for digital transformation in technology optimization services and Web 3.0 activation based in Singapore, today announced an initiative to raise up to $500 million to establish one of the world’s first large-scale corporate XRP Treasuries and appoints Chaince Securities LLC as the strategic advisor. This strategic move positions Trident at the forefront of integrating decentralized financial assets into treasury and capital management practices, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of blockchain-native financial infrastructure.

    The initiative will focus on the acquisition of XRP tokens as long-term strategic reserves, the deployment of staking mechanisms to generate yield, and deep engagement within the Ripple ecosystem. Trident will collaborate with select infrastructure and application projects, further strengthening its commitment to the advancement of decentralized finance.

    To support this initiative, Trident will raise capital through a mix of equity issuance, strategic placements, and structured financing instruments. The Company is currently in discussions with leading crypto foundations and institutional partners to secure favorable token acquisition terms and robust on-chain infrastructure.

    The initial rollout of the XRP Treasury is planned for the second half of 2025, subject to regulatory compliance and prevailing market conditions. Trident will provide ongoing updates on deployment milestones, governance frameworks, and reporting standards, in full alignment with public company disclosure practices.

    Soon Huat Lim, Founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of Trident, stated, “As a public company, our commitment to transparency, strong governance, and strategic foresight guides every decision we make. We see digital assets as key enablers in the evolution of the global financial landscape. This initiative reflects our belief in the transformative potential of blockchain technology for capital allocation and cross-border value transfer. Through this initiative, Trident aims to demonstrate how public companies can thoughtfully and responsibly participate in the ongoing development of decentralized finance.”

    About Trident
    Trident is a leading catalyst for digital transformation in digital optimization, technology services, and Web 3.0 activation worldwide, based in Singapore. The Company offers commercial and technological digital solutions designed to optimize its clients’ experience with their end-users by promoting digital adoption and self-service.

    Tridentity, the Company’s flagship product, is an innovative and highly secure blockchain-based identity solution designed to provide secure single sign-on authentication capabilities to integrated third-party systems across various industries. Tridentity aims to offer unparalleled security features, ensuring the protection of sensitive information and preventing potential threats, thus promising a new secure era in the global digital landscape, with a strong focus on Southern Africa and other key developing markets.

    Beyond Tridentity, the Company’s mission is to become the global leader in Web 3.0 activation, notably connecting businesses to a reliable and secure technological platform, with tailored and optimized customer experiences.

    Safe Harbor Statement
    This announcement contains statements that may constitute “forward-looking” statements pursuant to the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “aims,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “likely to,” and similar statements. The Company may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), in its annual report to shareholders, in announcements and other written materials, and in oral statements made by its officers, directors, or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company’s beliefs, plans, and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: the Company’s strategies, future business development, and financial condition and results of operations; the expected growth of the digital solutions market; the political, economic, social and legal developments in the jurisdictions that the Company operates in or in which the Company intends to expand its business and operations; the Company’s ability to maintain and enhance its brand. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the SEC. All information provided in this announcement is as of the date of this announcement, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

    For Investor/Media Enquiries
    Investor Relations
    Robin Yang, Partner
    ICR, LLC
    Email: investor@tridentity.me
    Phone: +1 (212) 321-0602

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Politics with Michelle Grattan: Senator Tammy Tyrrell on wild days in Tasmania

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    Tasmanian politics has been thrown into chaos after a Labor motion of no confidence forced Premier Jeremy Rockliff to either resign or call for a new election. The premier opted for the latter, with Tasmanians to vote on July 19, only something over a year into the four-year term.

    In Tasmania, Australia’s smallest state in terms of both size and population, local issues dominate. Labor homed in on economic mismanagement.

    But there is controversy over the Macquarie Point Hobart AFL stadium (which the major parties support) as well as the state’s important salmon industry, which saw a lot of attention federally in the lead-up to the last election.

    To talk all things Tasmanian, we’re joined by Independent Tasmanian Senator Tammy Tyrrell. She was elected in 2022 under the banner of the Jacqui Lambie Network a former member of the party but left last year. We talk about the state election, as well as federal issues and the new Senate.

    Tyrrell laments Tasmanians’ being made to vote again so soon,

    I was out and about on the northwest coast of Tasmania all day yesterday and everybody was like, what the heck is going on? They don’t want to go to an election, the people of Tasmania, they want the parliament to actually be grown ups and sort it out amongst themselves.

    The budget in Tasmania is in a shambles and we’re so far in the red that we can’t see any way out of it. But really? There’s no way that the Labor [party] is going to form government unless they form a minority government and no Tasmanian will support a Labor-Greens government again in a hurry. But I really think that the Liberal government should have elevated somebody else from within to be the leader, to be the premier.

    On her former boss Jacqui Lambie whose party has now collapsed, Tyrrell says it’s because of the kind of person she is,

    [In] the federal election, Jacqui focused outside of Tasmania. She focused on expanding the network. And it didn’t work for her because she didn’t campaign enough here in Tasmania.

    It’s a shame that she’s not supporting the candidate that is still sitting with her under the network. […] I think she should have stuck by Andrew Jenner and supported him through this [Tasmanian] election because he has shown loyalty to her and he has stuck it through thick and thin. So I believe he should be able to run back under the banner.

    Jacqui is a strong person and the network had every chance to be a strong network, but Jacqui [is] not really a team player. She’s more of a single athlete because she’s so determined and strong of her opinion and it’s hard to take a group forward when you’ve got such a strong force that does not communicate sideways very well. She is a strong human being and I still believe in Jacqui but it makes it hard for her to have a team.

    On the salmon farming industry, while Tyrrell voices her support, she agrees that environmental concerns do matter,

    I support any industry that puts jobs and money into small rural and regional communities in Tasmania. I agree that they need to be as eco and as green friendly as possible and I know that the salmon industry is doing things to be clean and as green as possible. But I also believe that we need to look after the people who live and work in Tasmania.

    We can’t sacrifice an industry completely just to satisfy the people that don’t like the salmon industry. I will always support the people of Tasmania and encourage industry and business to be as eco-friendly as possible, which is why we’re encouraging as many biofuels and eco-green fuel companies as possible to come to Tasmania, and thrive here.

    On reports that the Nationals approached her to join their party. Tyrell says while she didn’t seriously consider it, she took it as a “compliment”,

    It was a big compliment though. The Nats represent rural and regional Australia beautifully, by speaking their voice and for them to see that I am representing the people of Tasmania in a good light. It was a huge compliment to be approached to join them. But I’d already been in a relationship and I’m quite happy being a single divorcee.

    It’s amazing being an independent, it means that I can say and do what my community wants me to in their voice without having to agree to broad-sweeping politics or legislative ideas that I don’t agree with fundamentally.

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

    – ref. Politics with Michelle Grattan: Senator Tammy Tyrrell on wild days in Tasmania – https://theconversation.com/politics-with-michelle-grattan-senator-tammy-tyrrell-on-wild-days-in-tasmania-258802

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: When Women Lead, Peace Follows: UN Brings Stories of Women Leading Peace to Photoville Festival

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    A Cambodian woman who grew up amid landmines now clears them as a UN peacekeeper in Lebanon. A Sudanese civil society leader rallies displaced women to reclaim their voices in peacebuilding. Young activists from the divided communities of Cyprus foster dialogue and understanding in a deeply complex and long-standing conflict. These are just a few of the extraordinary stories captured in Through Her Lens: Women Rising for Peace, a striking photo exhibition that premiered on 7 June 2025 at Brooklyn Bridge Park as part of the Photoville Festival.

    A joint initiative of the UN Department of Peace Operations (DPO), UN Women, the Elsie Initiative Fund, and the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA), in partnership with Photoville, the exhibit highlights the stories of women as leaders, negotiators, and protectors in conflict-affected societies — told through the lenses of women photographers from those very communities.

    “Too often, women in conflict are portrayed only as victims,” said Natasha Lamoreux of UN Women. “But these photographs tell a different story. They show women as peacekeepers, negotiators, human rights defenders — leaders actively shaping peace.”

    From Sudan to Cyprus, Haiti to Lebanon, the UN collaborated with local women photographers who not only document the lives of women but also share in their struggles, striving to build peace in their communities, which creates an intimate and powerful perspective.

    “This exhibit is the culmination of months of partnership between the four organizing entities as well as between headquarters and field-based colleagues,” said Shatha Hussein from the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs. “We worked on very difficult contexts and turbulent situations that are changing by the day. So working with women on the ground to amplify their efforts through this initiative was not easy in any of the contexts featured, but their commitment, despite the odds, made this possible.”

    Preparing this exhibit has been a profound challenge — one that mirrors the obstacles women face daily in conflict zones. Intense fighting spiked early this year in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and South Sudan as the photoshoots were being planned.

    “These images are more than art — they are a collective story of resilience, acts of resistance, and transformation,” said Sophie Boudre of the UN Department of Peace Operations. “They declare that women’s rights must be protected, their leadership recognized, and their voices heard wherever peace is made.”

    Rooted in the Women, Peace and Security agenda launched by UN Security Council Resolution 1325, the exhibit underscores both the critical roles women play in peacebuilding and the persistent challenges they face — including a rising global backlash against gender equality.

    The Through Her Lens exhibit is on view through 22 June 2025 at Pier 1 of the Brooklyn Bridge Park. It will also be shown at UN Headquarters in time for a Security Council open debate on Women, Peace and Security at the end of October. Importantly, the exhibit will travel to the regions featured in the photographs — bringing these powerful stories full circle.

    View the exhibit online.

    Read the original article in Politcally Speaking, the online magazine from the United Nations Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –