NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaptur Statement On Ukrainian Drone Strikes On Russian Aircraft And Military Targets

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

    Toledo, OH – Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Chair and Co-Founder of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus released the following statement on reporting of successful Ukrainian drone strikes operations deep into Russian territory, which hit airfields including the Belaya air base in Russia’s Irkutsk region, destroying more than 40 Russian planes deep in Russian territory.

    “For the continuing horror Russian dictator Vladimir Putin has exacted on the people and free nation of Ukraine, this multiple strike by Ukrainian drones on key Russian military air field assets is long overdue,” said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). “Russia is the 3rd largest military in world. It encompasses 11 time zones and is rich in oil and minerals. Its population is more than 3 times the size of Ukraine. Nonetheless Putin covets the territory of Ukraine, the lowest income nation in Europe. Despite the odds, Ukraine’s soldiers and citizenry have nobly resisted Russia’s invasion since 2014 to regain their Liberty.”

    “This comes while Russia also is enlisting thousands of North Korean troops who are being forced to fight by their Dictator Kim Jong Un. Today as June begins, may President Trump use all his persuasive power and impose further sanctions on Russia, or work with Congress to do so. I hope that we can soon bring the warring parties to negotiate an end to this unnecessary and costly war defiling Europe and our planet,” concluded Congresswoman Kaptur.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Big Island Attorneys and Businessman Found Guilty of Bribery

    Source: US FBI

    HONOLULU – After a three-week trial before United States District Judge Jill A. Otake, a federal jury today found Paul Joseph Sulla, Jr., 78, Gary Charles Zamber, 55, and Rajesh P. Budhabhatti, 65, guilty of conspiracy to commit honest services wire fraud and nine counts of honest services wire fraud. Sulla was additionally convicted of money laundering. Sentencing is set for October 7, 2025 for Zamber, October 8, 2025 for Budhabhatti, and October 21, 2025 for Sulla. The defendants were permitted to remain released on bail pending sentencing. 

    At trial, the evidence showed that Sulla and Zamber, both attorneys living on the island of Hawaii (“Big Island”), and Budhabhatti, a private businessman on the Big Island, paid bribes and kickbacks to Alan Rudo, a Housing Specialist for the Hawaii County Office of Housing and Community Development, in exchange for Rudo using his official position to ensure the County approved three affordable housing agreements (AHAs) benefitting the defendants’ development companies Luna Loa Developments, LLC, West View Developments, LLC and Plumeria at Waikoloa, LLC. Although the defendants promised in the AHAs to build affordable housing for the citizens of Hawaii County, their development companies never built a single unit. Through the AHAs, the defendants fraudulently obtained at least $10,980,000 worth of land and excess affordable housing credits (AHCs). From that amount, the defendants paid or attempted to pay Rudo approximately $1,931,778 in bribes and kickbacks. 

    The defendants were convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit honest services wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment, and nine counts of honest services wire fraud, each of which also carries a maximum sentence of 20 years. Sulla alone was charged with and convicted of money laundering, which carries a maximum sentence of ten years. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. 

    Alan Rudo, who testified at trial, previously pled guilty in July 2022 to conspiring to commit honest services wire fraud in connection with the bribery and kickback scheme. Rudo is scheduled to be sentenced on August 13, 2025. 

    “Today’s verdict reiterates our unwavering message to those who bribe and attempt to buy the discretion of Hawaii’s public officials at the expense of the public’s trust and the integrity of our public institutions—you will be federally prosecuted and brought to justice,” said Acting United States Attorney Ken Sorenson. “Our office will continue to root out and vigorously pursue those who engage in public corruption or who violate their positions of public trust.” 

    “The defendants in this investigation defrauded their own community for personal financial gain,” said FBI Honolulu Special Agent in Charge David Porter.  “The corruption of government officials corrodes public trust and weakens our communities. The FBI will continue to aggressively pursue these cases to protect and maintain public trust and hold criminals accountable.” 

    “This verdict marks an important step toward accountability and reinforces the importance of integrity in public service,” said County of Hawaii Mayor Kimo Alameda. “We understand the impact this case has had on our community and remain committed to restoring trust. Since the initial findings, the Office of Housing and Community Development has taken concrete actions to strengthen internal controls, improve oversight, and ensure that public resources are managed responsibly and transparently. These changes reflect our commitment to kuleana— our shared responsibility—to serve with integrity and protect community resources.”

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mohammad Khatib and Margaret Nammar and Trial Attorney William Gullota, of the Department of Justice, Criminal Division, Public Integrity Section, prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province supports emergency operations centres to keep communities safe

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Community Emergency Preparedness Fund supports projects that help local governments and First Nations to better prepare for emergencies. This funding is provided by the Province and administered through the Union of British Columbia Municipalities.

    Local governments and First Nations throughout British Columbia will receive nearly $7 million from the emergency operations centre (EOC) equipment and training funding stream as follows:

    ?Esdilagh First Nation – Cargo trailer for mobile EOC, foundational training and tabletop exercise for staff.
    Amount: $39,720

    Abbotsford – Training and hands‑on mock event exercises to practice essential procedures.
    Amount: $39,587

    Adams Lake Indian Band – Comprehensive EOC training, tabletop exercise and supplies for EOC.
    Amount: $40,000

    Regional: Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District – This project provides EOC training and a multi-jurisdictional simulation exercise, and supplies IT equipment, communications equipment and office supplies.
    Amount: $117,790
    Sub-applicants: Port Alberni, Tofino

    Regional: Alert Bay – Cormorant Island’s EOC will receive EOC training and IT, operational and communications equipment, including solar power system.
    Amount: $80,000
    Sub-applicant: ‘Namgis First Nation

    Anspayaxw Band– The project boosts EOC capacity by supplying essential IT equipment and conducting a functional exercise.
    Amount: $40,000

    Armstrong – This project delivers EOC essentials and radio training, and supplies office equipment and drones to bolster EOC readiness.
    Amount: $30,083

    Ashcroft – Equips emergency operations centre with portable EOC kits, delivers Level 1 EOC training and runs exercises to practice essential emergency procedures.
    Amount: $40,000

    Barriere – This project provides EOC with office supplies, provides introductory EOC training and conducts tabletop exercises to practice critical procedures.
    Amount: $37,944

    Belcarra – This project provides a mobile trailer for storing and relocating EOC equipment.
    Amount: $33,150

    Blueberry River First Nations – Communications equipment, office supplies and training to manage emergency situations.
    Amount: $39,984

    Bowen Island – This project supplies mobile EOC equipment, distributes Rapid Damage Assessment kits and delivers a one-day EOC refresher course.
    Amount: $40,000

    Bulkley-Nechako Regional District – Facilitates EOC exercises and evacuation workshops to rehearse response co-ordination and safe evacuation procedures.
    Amount: $36,863

    Capital Regional District – This project provides EOC training and exercise to rehearse procedures and strengthen co-ordinated response.
    Amount: $40,000

    Cariboo Regional District – Mobile EOC and foundational training for staff.
    Amount: $21,966

    Central Coast Regional District – This project provides foundational EOC training, IT equipment and internet connectivity.
    Amount: $39,999

    Regional: Central Okanagan Regional District – This project provides staff development and training to enhance EOC capabilities.
    Amount: $240,000
    Sub-applicants: Kelowna, Lake Country, Peachland, West Kelowna, Westbank First Nation

    Central Saanich – This project provides EOC training, exercises and IT equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Chawathil First Nation – This project provides portable/deployable EOC kits.
    Amount: $39,102

    Clearwater – This project provides EOC training, office supplies and IT, operational and communications equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Coldstream – This project provides EOC training, tabletop exercise and IT, operational and communications equipment.
    Amount: $39,979

    Columbia Shuswap Regional District – This project provides a workflow-management system and EOC staff training.
    Amount: $39,350

    Colwood – This project provides EOC training and supplies office, IT and operational equipment.
    Amount: $24,184

    Regional: Comox Valley Regional District – This project provides multi‑jurisdictional EOC training and supplies IT and operational equipment.
    Amount: $195,000
    Sub-applicants: Comox, Courtenay, Cumberland, K’ómoks First Nation

    Cook’s Ferry Indian Band – This project provides EOC training and IT equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Coquitlam – This project provides Incident Command System 200 training and exercises.
    Amount: $40,000

    Cowichan Tribes – This project provides IT, communications and office supplies.
    Amount: $40,000

    Regional: Cowichan Valley Regional District – This project provides EOC position training and supplies office, IT and operational equipment.
    Amount: $200,000
    Sub-applicants: Duncan, Ladysmith, Lake Cowichan, North Cowichan

    Creston – This project provides EOC training, exercises and IT equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Doig River First Nation – Radio equipment and evacuation-operation supplies.
    Amount: $29,328

    Regional: East Kootenay Regional District – This project provides full‑scale EOC training and exercises and supplies operational, communications and IT equipment.
    Amount: $320,000
    Sub-applicants: ʔaq’am, Canal Flats, Cranbrook, Fernie, Invermere, Kimberley, Radium Hot Springs, Shuswap Band

    Elkford – This project provides drone training and EOC training (Introduction, Essentials and Incident Command System courses).
    Amount: $40,000

    Enderby – This project provides IT equipment, office supplies and operational-equipment upgrades.
    Amount: $23,435

    Esk’etemc First Nation – This project provides communications equipment and operational supplies.
    Amount: $31,818

    Regional: Fort St. James – This project provides EOC training and supplies IT, communications and operational equipment.
    Amount: $79,198
    Sub-applicant: Nak’azdli Whut’en

    Fraser Valley Regional District – Simulation exercise and emergency operations centre supplies.
    Amount: $40,000

    Fraser-Fort George Regional District – Operation supplies and EOC essentials training.
    Amount: $40,000

    Gibsons – Operations training and supplies to create and maintain an EOC in an existing facility.
    Amount: $40,000

    Gitga’at First Nation – This project provides training and supplies IT and communications equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Golden – This project provides operational supplies and first-aid kits.
    Amount: $38,490

    Granisle – This project provides EOC training and supplies IT and communications equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Haisla Nation – This project provides IT equipment, electrical upgrades for sea can storage radios and tabletop exercises.
    Amount: $39,755

    Harrison Hot Springs – This project provides section training and operational equipment.
    Amount: $34,835

    Hope – This project provides foundational training and operational equipment, including a generator.
    Amount: $40,000

    Houston – This project provides EOC training through the emergency-management program.
    Amount: $40,000

    Hudson’s Hope – Portable/deployable emergency operations centre kit and sections training.
    Amount: $40,000

    Huu-ay-aht First Nations – This project provides IT and operational equipment, training and tabletop exercises.
    Amount: $39,830

    Iskut First Nation – This project provides IT and communications equipment, including drone for communications and supplies a backup generator for reliable power and situational awareness.
    Amount: $40,000

    Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’/Che:k’tles7et’h’ First Nations – EOC capacity expanded with a mobile trailer for on‑site emergency co-ordination.
    Amount: $40,000

    Kamloops – This project provides IT equipment, EOC materials and staff training.
    Amount: $40,000

    Kanaka Bar Indian Band – This project provides EOC kits and staff grab-and-go bags.
    Amount: $37,240

    Kent – Foundational training and functional exercise.
    Amount: $39,911

    Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation – IT, communications and operational equipment, including generator and trailer.
    Amount: $40,000

    Kitimat – Communication equipment and training enhancements.
    Amount: $21,549

    Kitselas First Nation – This project provides training and exercises and supplies IT, communications and operational equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Kwakiutl Band Council – This project provides IT and communications equipment, orientation and exercises.
    Amount: $40,000

    Kwikwetlem First Nation – Tabletop exercise and operational equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Langley City – This project provides section‑specific and foundational training.
    Amount: $39,870

    Langley Township – Operational equipment and foundational training.
    Amount: $40,000

    Lheidli-T’enneh First Nation (Northside) – This project provides tabletop walkthrough and foundational training.
    Amount: $34,794

    Lheidli-T’enneh First Nation (Southside) – This project provides tabletop walkthrough and foundational training.
    Amount: $34,794

    Lhtako Dene Nation – Radio equipment, generator and operation supplies.
    Amount: $30,000

    Lillooet – This project provides refresher training and IT equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Lytton First Nation – This project provides office and communications equipment.
    Amount: $38,947

    Mackenzie – This project provides communications equipment and training.
    Amount: $39,890

    Maple Ridge – Functional exercise and operational equipment.
    Amount: $39,538

    McLeod Lake Indian Band – Operations supplies and EOC training.
    Amount: $39,190

    Merritt – EOC capacity building through training and new equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Metchosin – Mobile EOC and power-supply project, includes office supplies, operational and communications equipment, and training and exercises.
    Amount: $39,700

    Mission – Functional exercise and operation supplies.
    Amount: $32,776

    Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nations – Enhancements to the emergency-management program, including EOC training.
    Amount: $39,765

    Nanaimo – This project provides IT equipment, communications equipment and operational supplies.
    Amount: $34,000

    Regional: Nanaimo Regional District – This project provides section training, mock exercises, operational equipment and office supplies, including rapid damage assessment kits.
    Amount: $80,000
    Sub-applicant: District of Lantzville

    Nelson – EOC improvements through IT and communications equipment and staff-training exercise.
    Amount: $40,000

    North Okanagan Regional District – This project provides IT and communications equipment and EOC training.
    Amount: $40,000

    North Saanich – This project provides operational equipment, including a generator to operate during power outage.
    Amount: $40,000

    Regional: North Vancouver District – Functional exercise to test municipal evacuation plan and section-specific training.
    Amount: $120,000
    Sub-applicants: North Vancouver City, West Vancouver

    Northern Rockies Regional Municipality – Mobile EOC and operation supplies.
    Amount: $39,000

    Nuxalk Nation – This project provides operational equipment, including a generator.
    Amount: $40,000

    Oak Bay – This project provides EOC training and supplies office and operational equipment.
    Amount: $39,800

    Regional: Okanagan-Similkameen Regional District – This project provides EOC section training and supplies grab‑and‑go kits, communication and mapping tools, identification equipment and operational supplies.
    Amount: $199,600
    Sub-applicants: Keremeos, Oliver, Osoyoos, Summerland

    Pacheedaht First Nation – This project provides training, exercises and supplies sea can storage, IT equipment and first-aid supplies.
    Amount: $38,655

    Peace River Regional District – This project provides office, IT and operational equipment, including 72-hour kits.
    Amount: $39,853

    Pemberton – Conferencing equipment and foundational training.
    Amount: $40,000

    Penticton – This project provides EOC training and tabletop exercises and supplies IT and communications equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Pitt Meadows – Mobile emergency operations centre equipment and functional exercise.
    Amount: $40,000

    Port Coquitlam – Tabletop exercise and section training.
    Amount: $40,000

    Port Edward – This project provides emergency support services training and supplies office, IT and communications equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Port Hardy – This project provides EOC exercises and supplies operational equipment, including solar backup power.
    Amount: $37,200

    Port Moody – Functional tabletop exercise and operational equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Princeton – This project provides first-aid supplies, incident command vests, communications equipment and EOC training.
    Amount: $40,000

    qathet Regional District – This project provides operational equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Regional: Qualicum Beach – This project provides training, exercises and IT equipment.
    Amount: $80,000
    Sub-applicant: Parksville

    Quatsino First Nation – This project provides training and supplies operational and communications equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Saanich – This project provides EOC with conferencing equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Saik’uz First Nation – This project provides a mobile EOC trailer, IT, communications and operational equipment.
    Amount: $38,425

    Seabird Island Band – Functional exercise, foundational training and operation supplies.
    Amount: $33,660

    Sékw’elw’as – This project provides communications equipment and tabletop exercises.
    Amount: $40,000

    Sidney – EOC training for staff.
    Amount: $35,500

    Regional: Siska Band – This project enhances the operation of EOC through communications equipment.
    Amount: $159,043
    Sub-applicants: Nicomen Indian Band, Oregon Jack Creek Band, Shackan Indian Band

    Skeetchestn Indian Band – This project provides operational equipment, including an auxiliary power generator.
    Amount: $39,128

    Skowkale First Nation – This project provides foundational and section training.
    Amount: $30,173

    Skwláx te Secwepemcúl̓ecw – This project provides EOC with IT, communications equipment and activation exercises.
    Amount: $39,904

    Smithers – Joint training operations and communications equipment.
    Amount: $39,900

    SnPink’tn – Implementing technology into the EOC through IT equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Songhees Nation – This project provides training and supplies operational and office equipment, including storage and a generator.
    Amount: $39,935

    Sooke – This project provides EOC training, exercises and operational equipment, including a drone.
    Amount: $40,000

    Spuzzum First Nation – Section training and functional exercise.
    Amount: $40,000

    Squamish – This project provides a functional exercise and Incident Command System training.
    Amount: $35,000

    Sqwá First Nation – This project provides IT and operational equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    SȾÁUTW̱ First Nation – This project provides EOC training and IT, communications and operational equipment.
    Amount: $31,395

    Stewart – This project provides communications equipment updates.
    Amount: $10,116

    Regional: Strathcona Regional District – This project provides EOC training and supplies IT equipment, communications equipment, operational equipment and office supplies.
    Amount: $360,000
    Sub-applicants: Campbell River, Ehattesaht First Nation, Gold River, Nuchatlaht First Nation, Port McNeill, Sayward, Tahsis, Zeballos

    Takla Nation – This project provides training and supplies IT equipment, communications equipment and operational equipment.
    Amount: $39,774

    Taylor – Tabletop exercise and foundational training.
    Amount: $23,919

    Telkwa – This project provides EOC training and supplies IT equipment, communications equipment and office supplies.
    Amount: $39,994

    Thompson-Nicola Regional District – EOC equipment and training improvements.
    Amount: $40,000

    Tl’azt’en Nation – Emergency operations centre enhancement through training and generator purchase.
    Amount: $40,000

    Ts’il kaz koh – EOC project includes mobile trailer, training and operational equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Tsal’alh – Portable/deployable EOC kit and sections training.
    Amount: $39,197

    Tsartlip First Nation – This project provides EOC exercises and supplies IT, communications and operational equipment.
    Amount: $29,895

    Tseshaht First Nation – This project provides EOC training, office supplies and portable operational and communications equipment.
    Amount: $39,991

    Tsilhqot’in National Government – Tabletop exercise and foundational training.
    Amount: $37,500

    Tsleil-waututh Nation – Section training and tabletop exercise.
    Amount: $39,958

    Ucluelet – This project revitalizes the tsunami siren warning system.
    Amount: $34,549

    Valemount – Operation supplies and sections training.
    Amount: $35,159

    Vancouver – Incident Command Systems and section training for staff.
    Amount: $36,621

    Vanderhoof – This project provides IT, communications, operational and office equipment.
    Amount: $27,066

    Vernon – Rapid damage assessment kits and EOC training courses.
    Amount: $40,000

    Victoria – EOC update through IT supplies and earthquake exercise.
    Amount: $39,055

    We Wai Kai Nation – This project provides communications equipment and training.
    Amount: $39,425

    Wells – This project provides IT, office and operational equipment.
    Amount: $33,165

    West Moberly First Nations – This project provides functional tabletop exercise.
    Amount: $32,612

    Whistler – Essentials training and IT equipment.
    Amount: $24,650

    Williams Lake First Nation – Mock activation exercise and operational equipment.
    Amount: $39,265

    Witset First Nation – This project provides EOC training, communications and operational equipment.
    Amount: $40,000

    Xaxli’p First Nation (fountain) – Mobile EOC centre operation supplies.
    Amount: $39,688

    Yakweakwioose First Nation – Foundational training and operation supplies.
    Amount: $26,245

    Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi ‘it (tobacco plains) – This project provides a mobile EOC trailer, training and communications equipment.
    Amount: $39,928

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Unqualified lifeguard case addressed

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Food & Environmental Hygiene Department said today that a life-saving attendant at the San Francisco Towers swimming pool on Ventris Road, Happy Valley is suspected of using a fraudulent life-saving attendant certificate.

    The department elaborated that its officers, while verifying a batch of lifeguard records with the Hong Kong China Life Saving Society today, found that the credentials of a life-saving attendant on duty at the swimming pool on June 4 did not match the society’s records.

    As the life-saving attendant’s qualifications are in doubt, and the swimming pool has allegedly failed to provide a sufficient number of qualified life-saving attendants as required by law, the department ordered the immediate closure of the pool. It is also considering prosecuting the pool licensee.

    In addition to reporting the case to Police, the department notified the Property Management Services Authority to take parallel follow-up action.

    The Food & Environmental Hygiene Department has implemented a series of enhancement measures from May 19 to further prevent the employment of unqualified life-saving attendants at private swimming pools. In May, it inspected 713 licensed swimming pools and verified the qualifications of 1,041 life-saving attendants with the Hong Kong China Life Saving Society.

    Apart from the case in Happy Valley, no other irregularities regarding suspected employment of unqualified life-saving attendants have been identified, the department added.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Isha Foundation’s Meditation App Surpasses ChatGPT’s Launch Pace, Signals Global Demand for Digital Stillness

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Los Angeles, CA, June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As artificial intelligence dominates headlines, one of the fastest-growing wellness apps is turning heads for a different reason: silence. The Isha Foundation recently launched Miracle of Mind, a free meditation app that recorded over 1 million downloads in just 15 hours, outpacing even ChatGPT’s original adoption rate.

    Founded by spiritual leader Sadhguru, the app combines ancient yogic practices with adaptive technology to offer a simple, evidence-based approach to mental wellness. Its core is a 7-minute guided meditation designed to help users reduce stress, enhance focus, and build inner resilience.

    “People are overwhelmed—by information, by screens, by pressure. This app meets them where they are,” said an Isha Foundation spokesperson.

    Key Features:

    • Multilingual interface (English, Hindi, Tamil, Spanish, Russian) with plans for expansion
    • Gamified challenges, including streaks and badges
    • 100% free access — no subscriptions or in-app purchases

    The app’s methodology is grounded in research from Indiana University, Harvard University, University of Tennessee, Rutgers University, and University of Florida affiliated researchers, which have previously validated Isha’s meditation techniques for reducing stress and improving emotional regulation.

    Momentum & Impact

    • 45% of users are first-time meditators, primarily aged 18–34
    • 70% of users returned to the app within the first week, a retention rate that rivals leading meditation apps like Calm and Insight Timer
    • Self-reported outcomes include 34% drop in anxiety and improved sleep in six weeks
    • Rated 4.8/5 stars across 80,000+ global reviews

    The platform also features a dynamic AI chatbot—“Ask Sadhguru”—trained on over 50,000 hours of his teachings to provide real-time insights.

    Already in use by over 2 million individuals worldwide, Miracle of Mind is scaling faster than most mental health platforms in the nonprofit sector. When the app introduces upgrades such as biofeedback integration, augmented reality meditation environments, and personalized generative meditation tailored to user behavior, it could become even more engaging and exciting..

    As the mental health crisis intensifies globally, Isha Foundation’s Miracle of Mind offers something increasingly rare: an accessible path inward, rooted in wisdom, powered by technology, and available to all.

    Miracle of Mind is available for free on iOS and Android platforms.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister’s statement on May Labour Force Survey results

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Diana Gibson, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation, has issued the following statement on the release of Statistics Canada’s Labour Force Survey for May 2025:

    “Now, more than ever, it’s critical for B.C. to focus on diversifying our economy and protecting jobs for British Columbians, and we are doing that work.

    “This week, we announced the launch of our ease-of-doing-business review, to continue the work to cut red tape, modernize our regulatory and permitting systems, and foster innovation, as we secure B.C.’s position as the engine of Canada’s new economy. Businesses are invited to share their ideas, challenges and suggestions through an online website portal until fall 2025. Information gathered will help us to make it easier for companies and organizations of all sizes and sectors to do business in B.C., and to create more jobs so people can find stable full-time work in their home communities.

    “Today’s Labour Force Survey data shows that despite the economic challenges posed by the U.S., in May, B.C. led across the country with a gain of 13,000 jobs compared to last month. So far this year, B.C. has gained 67,000 full-time jobs, the highest increase among provinces.

    “In May, private-sector employment has increased by 8,900 jobs compared to last month. Since July 2017, B.C. has gained 183,300 private-sector jobs. So far this year, we have the second-highest increase in private-sector employment among provinces at 14,700 jobs.

    “B.C. leads in women’s employment, an increase of 11,000 this month. So far this year, B.C. has the highest increase in women’s full-time employment among provinces at 32,900. Youth employment also increased in May by 1,400 jobs.  

    “Our unemployment rate is 6.4%, below the national average of 7.0%. And B.C. continues to lead the country with an average hourly wage of $38.07, with our average wage increased by 2.9% compared to this time last year, the fourth-highest growth among provinces.

    “The data this morning shows that in May, B.C. had employment increases in the construction sector at 23,800 jobs compared to this time last year. Professional, scientific and technical services continue to show strong and steady growth overall with gains of 11,100 in May.

    “Next week, I will be leading a B.C. delegation to Europe to meet with investors, key government officials and stakeholders to build connections and showcase our world-class, made-in-B.C. technology. This mission will build on the work underway on Premier David Eby’s trade mission focused on key markets in Asia, as we work to create trade opportunities for businesses in the province and good-paying jobs for British Columbians.

    “Growing a stronger and more diverse economy will help protect people in B.C. from instability outside our borders, with investments that will bring good-paying jobs to the province as part of robust and sustainable industries.”

    Learn More:

    To learn more about B.C.’s Response to Tariffs, visit:
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/tariffs

    To learn more about the European Union Trade Mission, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/32442

    To learn more about the Ease-of-doing-business Review, visit:
    https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2025JEDI0022-000544

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dunn High School Sit-ins to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Dunn High School Sit-ins to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker

    Dunn High School Sit-ins to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker
    jejohnson6

    Protests and legal action by American Indian citizens in Harnett County that led to school integration in 1961 soon will be recognized with a North Carolina Highway Historical Marker. The N.C. Highway Historical Marker Program is part of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

    The marker commemorating the Dunn High School sit-ins will be unveiled at 10 a.m. Friday, June 13, during a roadside ceremony at the intersection of West Cumberland Street and North Orange Street in Dunn.

    Although the American Indians of the Harnett and Sampson County region have been recognized by the state as Coharie Indians since 1971, educational opportunities were limited in the preceding decades. Beginning in 1911, the state authorized separate schools for their children. By 1917, the Maple Grove Indian community that had formed near Dunn was large enough to begin petitioning for a school.

    Maple Grove School opened in 1924. As many as 60 children attended at times, often taught by one teacher for grades 1 through 7. After grade 7, students had no school to attend until 1942, when the East Carolina Indian School opened in the New Bethel Indian community a few miles north of Clinton. Children in Harnett and Sampson counties traveled by bus, with the 35-mile trip taking about two hours each way.

    By the mid-1950s, parents of students in the area became dissatisfied with the arrangement and began holding informal meetings at Maple Grove School. Between 1956 and 1960, parents of Indian children formally requested that their children be reassigned to Dunn High School but were denied.

    On Aug. 30, 1960, Indian parents went to Dunn High School to register their children and were turned away. The next day, students and parents returned. The students quietly entered the classrooms and took seats. Two students were charged with trespassing. These sit-ins lasted several days and ended when a judge issued a restraining order prohibiting Indian parents and students from setting foot on Dunn High School property.

    In October 1960, the families filed a lawsuit against the Harnett County Board of Education. A temporary order was signed by federal Judge Albert Reeves directing that the Indian children be admitted to Dunn High School until their eligibility could be determined.

    By June 1961, the school board had received 40 applications for reassignment. On June 20, 1961, 20 students were approved for reassignment to Dunn High School, but 26 elementary-age Indian children were denied admission to the city’s elementary school.

    The addition of Indian students to Dunn High School went reasonably well, it was reported. Later that year the parents returned to federal court to request that their younger children be admitted to Dunn’s segregated elementary schools. The county resisted, but in January 1964 a federal judge ordered the schools to admit 27 Indian elementary students. The county did not appeal, ending Indian school segregation in Harnett County.

    This activism also paved the way for the county’s Black residents to file suit in October 1963. By August 1964, they received a favorable ruling in federal court, ending school segregation for all Harnett County residents.

    For more information about the historical marker, visit https://www.dncr.nc.gov/blog/2025/05/14/dunn-high-school-sit-ins-h-128 or call (919) 814-6625.

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

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Jun 6, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: No cannabis in HK Haribo candies

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Government today said it tested 58 samples of Haribo candy products in Hong Kong and none of them contained tetrahydrocannabinol, a cannabis component.

    The Government Laboratory tested the 58 samples that had already been removed from shelves in the city, after overseas reports suggested that Haribo candies may be contaminated and tested positive for cannabis.

    Upon receiving relevant information, the Food & Environmental Hygiene Department’s Centre for Food Safety contacted local food traders and consulted authorities in the Netherlands.

    The affected batch of products was not imported into Hong Kong, the Government said.

    For prudence sake, the centre had previously informed the trade to temporarily remove the brand’s candies from shelves. The relevant traders have been informed of the test results.

    The Government will continue to closely monitor the situation and take appropriate action as needed.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: TRA investigates hot-rolled steel plate from South Korea

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    TRA investigates hot-rolled steel plate from South Korea

    The TRA has opened an anti-dumping investigation into imports of hot-rolled steel plate from South Korea.

    The Trade Remedies Authority has today (6 June 2025) opened a new investigation into imports of hot-rolled steel plate from South Korea.

    Hot-rolled steel plates are flat steel products often used in bridge construction, machine manufacturing and shipbuilding.

    The new investigation is in response to an application by UK producer Spartan UK Ltd, which has alleged that imports of hot-rolled steel plate products from South Korea are being dumped into the UK and that these dumped imports are causing injury to domestic industry.

    According to the TRA’s initial analysis, imports of hot-rolled steel plate from South Korea have grown from 14 million tonnes in 2021 to more than 40 million tonnes last year.

    Where the TRA recommends a remedy is necessary, it will conduct an Economic Interest Test to assess whether the implementation of the remedy is in the UK’s economic interest.

    Interested parties can contribute to this investigation by visiting the TRA’s public file.

    Background information

    • The period of investigation for this case will be between April 1 2024 and March 31 2025.
    • The Trade Remedies Authority is the UK body that investigates whether new trade remedy measures are needed to counter unfair import practices and unforeseen surges of imports.
    • The TRA is an arm’s length body of the Department for Business and Trade.
    • UK industries concerned about imports have been able to submit applications for a new trade remedy measure since January 2021. These applications are considered by the TRA to see if there are grounds for an investigation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The UK is gearing up for autonomous warfare – but missing the reality of war today

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Anthony King, Professor of War Studies, University of Exeter

    The UK is facing a security crisis. Great power competition has returned, and the threat of hostility from Russia, China, Iran and North Korea is increasing. The west can no longer assume military superiority, and the UK can no longer depend unconditionally on the US. The character of war itself is changing as new technology is introduced.

    This is the situation laid out in the latest strategic defence review. The implications for the UK are clear: the country must prepare for high-intensity, protracted war, not counter-insurgency operations like Iraq or Afghanistan.

    In order to address these challenges, the review says, “the UK must pivot to a new way of war.” Nuclear weapons are important here, and will be renewed and expanded. But the recommendations in the review focus on conventional weaponry and, above all, new remote and autonomous technology.

    Want more politics coverage from academic experts? Every week, we bring you informed analysis of developments in government and fact check the claims being made.

    Sign up for our weekly politics newsletter, delivered every Friday.

    The ongoing Ukraine war underpins much of the thinking about the military changes the UK needs to make. That conflict has demonstrated a significant change in the character of 21st-century warfare. Most obviously, it has involved a proliferation of cheap, expendable remote systems, some of which have autonomous capabilities.

    Remote first-person-view drones, and drones controlled by unjammable fibre-optic cables, have become ubiquitous on the frontline – reconnoitring, targeting and striking troops on both sides. They have made conventional strategic manoeuvres at the front almost impossible, while also striking civilian and military targets deep in Russia and Ukraine.

    At sea, uncrewed naval drones have struck Russian shipping and infrastructure in Crimea. The Ukrainian armed forces have also developed a digital battle management system and live-data, AI-enabled targeting system, drawing together information from satellite, open-source, ground-sensor and signal intelligence. This has allowed Ukrainian commanders to see deeply across the battlespace, and target Russian forces with an unprecedented depth and precision.

    As a result of remote systems enabled by digitised targeting, military forces have become exponentially more lethal in close battle – and also in the deep.

    The strategic defence review aims for the UK to incorporate these two elements into its war-fighting capabilities, recommending massive investment in remotely controlled and autonomous systems.

    It calls for the UK to create a “leading, tech-enabled defence power”. Part of this involves integrating UK forces and the construction of a unified “digital targeting web”. This would be fed by sensors from every domain (land, air and sea) so that all forces have access to the same intelligence and a common operating picture. The idea is that a target identified in one domain might be prosecuted by forces in another, to “enhance the Armed Forces’ precision and lethality at scale and reach”.

    In order to achieve this, the review also calls for improved and more innovative relationships between British defence, tech and industry. Once again, a lot has been learnt from Ukraine, whose industrial and tech sectors have been integrated into the war from the start.

    The missing link

    The review’s authors – three external experts led by former defence secretary and Nato chief, Lord Robertson – are correct to highlight the increasing importance of remote (and sometimes autonomous) systems in warfare. They are clear that military forces should increasingly draw on live data, processed by artificial intelligence, to help them understand the battlespace, plan and target. The UK must remain competitive with peer enemies who are developing these capabilities.

    However, even assuming that all of this is affordable at 2.5% of the UK’s GDP from 2027 (a 0.2% rise from where defence spending is now), there is a serious gap in the review’s proposals.

    As a scholar who has studied war in the 21st century, and has just completed a book on AI and war, I believe the document vastly overexaggerates the capability of AI and autonomy. For example, it states:

    In modern warfare, simple metrics such as the number of people and platforms deployed are outdated and inadequate. It is through dynamic networks of crewed, uncrewed, and autonomous assets and data flows that lethality and military effect are now created.

    This analysis presumes that autonomy will be vital in the future, and implies it will displace the need for large numbers of human combatants. In fact, true autonomy is still rare in combat – and will remain so, according to my research.

    Even if autonomous drone swarms appear, they will not eliminate the need for human programmers or operators behind the frontline. AI has limited military functions which require a huge amount of human input.

    Defence secretary John Healey being shown unmanned and autonomous units on a demonstration.
    UK MOD Crown Copyright 2025

    The review prioritises preparedness for protracted inter-state war. But it ignores the blindingly obvious from Ukraine: the imperative of mass.

    The Ukrainian frontline combat forces have expanded to about 300,000 – Ukraine claims its whole force, including allied fighters, is around 1 million. There are about 400,000 Russian combat troops in Ukraine. Casualties have been eye-watering: the Russians have suffered about 800,000 casualties, the Ukrainians nearly 500,000.

    In my view, the strategic defence review has been mesmerised by the prospect of new technology – and, perhaps, by some wishful thinking.

    In 21st-century war, troop mass matters. Fleets of drones and the most sophisticated digital targeting will be irrelevant without human forces willing to fight and to operate them.

    What is the review’s answer to this? While acknowledging that in the cold war, the British fielded forces of 311,000, UK regular armed forces are to remain the same size: 136,000, of which the army will consist of only 73,000 troops and staff.

    The review proposes that active reserves (volunteer, part-time forces) will be increased by 20%, and that the strategic reserve (ex-regulars) “is central to military mobilisation and must be reinvigorated”.

    It is not surprising that the review’s authors have offered such thin solutions to the question of mass. There has been profound resistance from successive governments, Whitehall and civil society to any expansion in the size of British military forces in the UK. But it is doubtful that an expanded reserve and a reinvigorated strategic reserve will be remotely enough for the UK to fight and win a war of any kind in the coming decade.

    Anthony King 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. The UK is gearing up for autonomous warfare – but missing the reality of war today – https://theconversation.com/the-uk-is-gearing-up-for-autonomous-warfare-but-missing-the-reality-of-war-today-258240

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Our program is an intensive path of personal and professional transformation”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    Three groups, more than 100 students, successfully completed the MBA program. Over a year and a half, they completed 16 educational modules, including two on-site ones: to China and to Lake Baikal. The 2025 graduates include entrepreneurs, founders of successful businesses, and top managers of leading Russian companies: Sber, VTB, Rostelecom, NOVATEK, Rosatom, Yandex.Technologies, Almaz-Antey Concern, SKB Kontur, Belkacar, SONET Group, and others.

    Volkov Dmitry Leonidovich

    First Deputy Director of the Higher School of Business

    “The MBA program not only provides knowledge, but also strong networking in the leadership community; for a modern entrepreneur and top manager, it is extremely important to remain in the educational environment and continue learning throughout life.”

    The updated MBA program of the HSE Graduate School of Business covers key areas of modern management: from strategic management and corporate finance to marketing, operations management and innovation, including the use of AI in business.

    All graduates note an important advantage of the HSE Graduate School of Business: a very strong team of teachers, which unites both practitioners, leaders of successful businesses, and outstanding representatives of academic science from across the HSE University.

    Positioning itself as a first-choice business school, HSE has invested a lot of effort into developing its MBA program, including innovative educational formats: business simulations, interactive projects, group assignments to develop practical skills and networking among program students.

    The hallmarks of the MBA program at the Higher School of Business at the National Research University Higher School of Economics are effective on-site modules. The leadership intensive is traditionally held on Lake Baikal and is aimed at developing team management skills, crisis management, and the ability to make decisions under stress and in situations of uncertainty.

    And the recent overseas module was organized jointly with Fudan University, one of the leading centers of business education in Asia. The university is among the best universities in China and Asia, widely recognized for its high level of teaching, quality of scientific research and international programs in the field of economics and management. The overseas modules are the leaders in the most positive feedback from the program participants.

    The final part of the program was the defense of final projects. Participants presented solutions for a wide range of industries: from energy and tourism to industrial production and digital services. Among the initiatives: development of a new data management product, launch and development of a business community, a service for generating income from excess energy capacity, a strategy for bringing self-propelled electric lifts to market.

    The graduation ceremony took place at the HSE campus. The graduates were congratulated by the program teachers and the business school management.

    Koptsev Vladimir Sergeevich

    Head of the MBA program at the Higher School of Business, National Research University Higher School of Economics

    “Our program is an intensive path of personal and professional transformation. We see how students change over the course of a year and a half: their confidence grows, their horizons expand, their ability to make strategic decisions strengthens. It is especially valuable that they leave the program with a clear understanding of their role in business and with a readiness for new challenges.”

    During their studies, participants not only expanded their professional horizons, but also built new strong horizontal connections—the alumni community remains one of the program’s key resources.

    Ekaterina Artemenkova

    Director of the Financial Department, Insurance Company “Guardia”

    “I asked my classmates to name three associations with the program and collected them in a word cloud. The most frequent word turned out to be unexpected, but very accurate – “pleasure”. In the program, we learned to enjoy studying, communicating, challenges. And, perhaps, the main thing we learned was the ability to maintain inner calm in the most stressful situations and to see opportunities even in difficulties.”

    Andrey Dementyev

    Founder of the family project “Elephant Park” in Sochi

    “Over these one and a half years, we have not only mastered the tools of strategic management, Agile and financial analysis – we have learned to see value in people, in the team, in the environment. We have learned from each other, admired, supported – and it is in this atmosphere that ideas, projects and a real team are born.”

    Olga Komleva

    Director of IT Solutions Department, SONET Group of Companies

    “This morning, when I was driving to the airport, I was thinking that this is my last trip as part of the MBA program. It is a warm sadness and great pride at the same time. We have gained knowledge, found friends, and most importantly, made the right choice by coming here. I would like to wish everyone not to lose interest, to study and move forward.”

    The graduation of the HSE Graduate School of Business MBA program has become a significant contribution to the preparation of innovative responsible leaders who change organizations and the world. Start of a new cohort MBA programs is scheduled for this fall and the admissions campaign has already begun.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation Seeks Public Input on Equine State Trail Master Plan

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation Seeks Public Input on Equine State Trail Master Plan

    N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation Seeks Public Input on Equine State Trail Master Plan
    jejohnson6

    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources’ Division of Parks and Recreation is seeking input on the Equine State Trail Master Plan. The master plan will be a 20-year plan that identifies a 10-mile-wide corridor for the trail.

    Authorized in 2023 by the General Assembly, the Equine State Trail is the 14th state trail. It is envisioned to be an equestrian trail that loops through eight counties, including Chatham, Cumberland, Harnett, Hoke, Lee, Montgomery, Moore, and Richmond counties. The trail has opportunities to connect Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve, Carvers Creek State Park, and Raven Rock State Park, and will offer a variety of equestrian recreation.

    Two public open houses will be held — June 18 at Raven Rock State Park auditorium and June 25 at Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve auditorium. Both open houses will be from 5-7 p.m. and attendees can drop in any time. Members of the public are encouraged to attend and can expect to spend about 30 minutes to review, discuss and weigh in on their preferred recreational amenities for the trail.

    Amenities that may be considered for the master plan include the trail surface type, campgrounds, trailheads, recreational user types, and connection opportunities within the eight identified counties.

    An online public survey is available for those who cannot attend the public meetings. Take the survey at: http://www.trails.nc.gov/eqst-survey.

    About North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation
    The Division of Parks and Recreation manages more than 264,000 acres of iconic landscape within North Carolina’s state parks, state recreation areas and state natural areas. It administers the N.C. Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, including its local grants program, as well as a state trails program, North Carolina Natural and Scenic Rivers and more, all with a mission dedicated to conservation, recreation and education. The state parks system welcomes more than 19 million visitors annually.

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

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Jun 5, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dr. Craig Friend to Discuss New Book ‘Becoming Lunsford Lane’ on June 24 at N.C. Capitol

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Dr. Craig Friend to Discuss New Book ‘Becoming Lunsford Lane’ on June 24 at N.C. Capitol

    Dr. Craig Friend to Discuss New Book ‘Becoming Lunsford Lane’ on June 24 at N.C. Capitol
    jejohnson6

    The North Carolina State Capitol will host a free lecture by Dr. Craig Friend about his new book “Becoming Lunsford Lane: The Lives of An American Aeneas” on June 24 at 6 p.m. The State Capitol is administered by the N.C. Division of State Historic Sites within the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

    By challenging the rules of enslavement and, later, pushing the boundaries of free citizenship in North Carolina, Lunsford Lane (1803-79) became a folk hero to many enslaved Southerners, as well as a generation of abolitionists. Author of a unique “slave narrative” and a speaking partner with some of the era’s greatest orators, including William Lloyd Garrison, Henry Highland Garnett, William Wells Brown, and Frederick Douglass, Lane became a celebrity who watched as the persona he created gradually faltered and failed him and his family.

    In the first biography of Lunsford Lane based on original and extensive research, Craig Thompson Friend portrays a man who dreamed beyond his enslavement, delivered himself and his family from bondage, and spun a story of his life that brought him lasting freedom and fleeting fame. Lane’s story is a biography for our times: a man searching to define life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness in a changing American society scarred by contentious politics, economic challenges, class tensions, loss of political rights, and racial violence.

    Craig Thompson Friend is a professor of history at North Carolina State University. He is the author of “Kentucke’s Frontiers,” winner of the 2011 Governor’s Award, and “Along the Maysville Road: The Early Republic in the Trans-Appalachian West.” For more information about the event, visit the site’s Eventbrite page Becoming Lunsford Lane: Book Talk with Dr. Craig Friend Tickets, Tue, Jun 24, 2025 at 6:00 PM | Eventbrite

    The State Capitol’s mission is to preserve and interpret the history, architecture, and function of the 1840 building and Union Square. The Capitol is open to visitors Monday-Saturday and is located at 1 E. Edenton St. in downtown Raleigh. For additional information please call 984-867-8340 or visit https://historicsites.nc.gov/capitol.

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

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Jun 5, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: First Farm-Life School to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: First Farm-Life School to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker

    First Farm-Life School to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker
    jejohnson6

    Schools built in the early 20th century to provide education in rural areas of the state soon will be recognized with a North Carolina Highway Historical Marker. The N.C. Historical Marker Program is part of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

    The marker commemorating Craven County Farm Life School, the first farm life school, will be dedicated at the intersection of U.S. Hwy 17 and Farm Life Avenue in Vanceboro, N.C. on Thursday, June 12 at 4 p.m.

    Authorized in 1911 by a General Assembly appropriation, farm life schools were promoted by state superintendent J.Y. Joyner and various farm groups. These schools were required to offer a standard high school education in addition to classes and practical experience in vocational agriculture and home economics.

    If a local governmental unit provided facilities (including dormitories for boys and girls) for $25,000 and then pledged $2,500 for operating expenses each year, the state would match the latter amount. Almost immediately, five counties took advantage of the offer, and by 1916, 21 farm-life schools were in operation.  

    Craven County Farm Life School opened on Nov. 4, 1913, with an on-site celebration and 30 enrolled students.  

    A second school — Rowan Farm-Life School in China Grove — opened in 1914 and was such a success that in 1921 the regular China Grove High School merged with it and shared the farm campus.  

    In Nash County, local farmer Tom Jones donated 25 acres of land, and the community voted for an additional $10,000 in bonds for buildings for the Red Oak Farm-Life High School.  

    Students within walking or horse-riding distances paid no tuition, but boarding students paid $12.50 per month. The boys cut wood for fires, and the girls cooked and waited on tables. Crop rotation, contour plowing, selection of nutritious foods, and improved homemaking practices were emphasized along with the academic curriculum.  

    For more information about the historical marker, please visit  https://www.dncr.nc.gov/blog/2024/08/09/farm-life-schools-c-89, or call (919) 814-6625   

    The Highway Historical Marker Program is a collaboration between the N.C. departments of Natural and Cultural Resources and Transportation.

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

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Jun 5, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chimney Rock State Park to Reopen June 27

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Chimney Rock State Park to Reopen June 27

    Chimney Rock State Park to Reopen June 27
    jejohnson6

    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and N.C. State Parks announced today that Chimney Rock State Park and the Chimney Rock attraction will reopen to visitors on Friday, June 27, exactly nine months after Hurricane Helene devastated the surrounding communities.

    “Chimney Rock is a western North Carolina jewel,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Reopening the state park will draw tourists back to this area. I am pleased that DNCR, DOT, and local leaders in Chimney Rock were able to get this park open for people to enjoy and so local businesses can thrive.”

    Access to the park has been limited since September 2024 due to the loss of the park entrance bridge. The N.C. Department of Transportation recently completed work on a temporary bridge and repairs to the park’s roads.

    “The reopening of this iconic park is another positive step toward recovery in western North Carolina,” said N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Secretary Pamela B. Cashwell. “We could not reopen Chimney Rock without the swift work of the N.C. Department of Transportation and the leadership from Governor Josh Stein and his recovery team.”

    “We are grateful for the strong partnership with the local communities and their leadership, along with Chimney Rock Management,” said State Parks Director Brian Strong. “We are so excited to welcome visitors back to Chimney Rock State Park.”

    Park hours and additional details will be announced soon. Advance reservations will be required to access the Chimney Rock attraction; the ticketing reservation system at chimneyrockpark.com will go live approximately one week prior to the reopening. Capacity will be limited due to ongoing recovery and rebuilding efforts in the area.

    Located in Rutherford County, Chimney Rock State Park offers some of North Carolina’s most dramatic mountain scenery, overlooking Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. For a fee, visitors can take an elevator or hike to the top of the park’s namesake, a 315-foot freestanding rock spire. James Ledgerwood is the park superintendent.

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

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Jun 6, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: The Hawaii National Guard conducts Urban Rescue training during Pacific Partnership 2025 in Virac, Philippines [Image 1 of 4]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    VIRAC, Philippines (June 5, 2025) – Hawaii National Guardsmen and personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines instruct local emergency responders and civilian authorities on how to breach a simulated collapsed building in Virac, Philippines, June 5, 2025. This effort is part of a two-week urban rescue training exercise supporting the humanitarian assistance and disaster response objectives of Pacific Partnership 2025. Now in its 21st iteration, Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Jennings)

    Date Taken: 06.05.2025
    Date Posted: 06.06.2025 10:13
    Photo ID: 9089135
    VIRIN: 250605-N-YV347-1064
    Resolution: 6823×4549
    Size: 11.44 MB
    Location: VIRAC, PH
    Web Views: 0
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    PUBLIC DOMAIN  

    This work, The Hawaii National Guard conducts Urban Rescue training during Pacific Partnership 2025 in Virac, Philippines [Image 4 of 4], by PO2 Jordan Jennings, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: The Hawaii National Guard conducts Urban Rescue training during Pacific Partnership 2025 in Virac, Philippines [Image 3 of 4]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

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    VIRAC, Philippines (June 5, 2025) – Hawaii National Guardsmen and personnel from the
    Armed Forces of the Philippines instruct local emergency responders and civilian authorities on how to perform a controlled descent in Virac, Philippines, June 5, 2025. This effort is part of a two-week urban rescue training exercise supporting the humanitarian assistance and disaster response objectives of Pacific Partnership 2025. Now in its 21st iteration, Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Jennings)

    Date Taken: 06.05.2025
    Date Posted: 06.06.2025 10:13
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  • MIL-OSI Security: CFE-DM Hosts Humanitarian Assistance Disaster Response Workshop during Pacific Partnership 2025 in Virac, Philippines [Image 1 of 2]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    VIRAC, Philippines (June 6, 2025) – Center for Excellence in Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance representative Mike Wiley leads a Humanitarian Assistance Disaster Response workshop with Armed Forces of the Philippines personnel, local emergency responders, and civilian authorities in Virac, Philippines, June 6, 2025. This effort is part of a two-week urban rescue training exercise supporting the humanitarian assistance and disaster response objectives of Pacific Partnership 2025. Now in its 21st iteration, Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Jennings)

    Date Taken: 06.06.2025
    Date Posted: 06.06.2025 10:17
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  • MIL-OSI Economics: Joint Media Statement of the 34th Meeting of the ASEAN Directors-General of Customs

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    The 34th Meeting of the ASEAN Directors-General of Customs (DGs) was held on 3 – 5 June 2025 in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam. The Meeting was chaired by Mr. Azizil Hakim Brahim, Acting Controller of Customs, Royal Customs and Excise Department, Brunei Darussalam and attended by 10 ASEAN Member States (AMS) and the ASEAN Secretariat.

     

    We express concern over the recent introduction of unilateral tariffs by the U.S. This has caused uncertainty and will bring significant challenges to businesses, especially micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), as well as to global trade dynamics. The unprecedented imposition of tariffs by the U.S. will disrupt regional and global trade and investment flows, as well as supply chains, affecting businesses worldwide and hindering economic progress in ASEAN. We reaffirm our support for a predictable, transparent, free, fair, inclusive, sustainable, and rules-based multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organization (WTO) at its core, and we acknowledge the critical role that the WTO has played in fostering global economic growth. ASEAN will remain steadfast in deepening our regional economic integration, leveraging on opportunities amidst global challenges. We will continue to work together more closely, with greater unity and solidarity and remain committed to ASEAN’s rule-based trade. This collective effort will enable ASEAN to cope with and overcome the global trade crisis, minimise the impact on our people, and continue to grow sustainably.

     
    Download the full statement here
    The post Joint Media Statement of the 34th Meeting of the ASEAN Directors-General of Customs appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pacific Partnership 2025 Kicks off with urban rescue training in Virac, Philippines, June 2, 2025 [Image 9 of 9]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

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    VIRAC, Philippines (June 2, 2025) – Hawaii National Guardsmen and personnel from the
    Armed Forces of the Philippines conduct urban rescue training with local emergency responders and civilian authorities in Virac, Philippines, June 2, 2025. This effort is part of a two-week urban rescue training exercise supporting the humanitarian assistance and disaster response objectives of Pacific Partnership 2025. Now in its 21st iteration, Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Jennings)

    Date Taken: 06.02.2025
    Date Posted: 06.03.2025 20:23
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  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney speaks with Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, spoke with the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. 

    The two leaders discussed the longstanding relationship between Canada and India, including deep people-to-people ties and significant commercial links. Importantly, there was agreement to continued law enforcement dialogue and discussions addressing security concerns.

    Prime Minister Carney extended an invitation to Prime Minister Modi to attend Canada’s 2025 G7 Leaders’ Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta.

    Prime Minister Carney and Prime Minister Modi agreed to remain in contact and looked forward to meeting at the G7 Leaders’ Summit later this month.

    Associated Link

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bango 2024 Full Year Results and Outlook

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CAMBRIDGE, United Kingdom, June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bango (AIM: BGO), today announces its full year results for the 12 months ended 31 December 2024 and provides an update on current trading and outlook for 2025.

    FY24 Financial Overview:

    Results for the 12 months ended 31 December 2024  FY24 FY23 YoY Change
           
    Transactional Revenue1 $36.2M $32.7M +11%
    DVM & One Off Revenue2 $17.2M $13.4M +28%
           
    Total Revenue $53.4M $46.1M +16%
           
    Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) 3 $14.0M $8.8M +59%
    Net Retention4 125% 137%  
           
    Adjusted EBITDA5 $15.3M $6.4M +139%
           
    Loss After Tax ($3.7M) ($8.8M) $5.1M
           
    Net (debt)/cash at 31 December6 ($1.8M) ($4.0M) $2.2M


    FY24 Operational highlights:

    • 9 new Digital Vending Machine® (DVMTM) license customers (total 27 at end of 2024)
    • 110 content providers connected to the DVM, up from 93 at the end of 2023
    • Launched Disney+ with Continente – Portugal’s largest high-street retailer, in only 12 weeks from first customer contact
    • First two DVM CX (user interface) customers signed, including Altice in the US
    • First Eastern European DVM customer signed

    Post period-end

    Digital Vending Machine®

    • 6 new DVM customers to date in 2025, including:
      • New US wins mean the Bango DVM now serves 6 out of the top 8 US communication providers (by subscriber count)
      • First DVM customer in South Korea – leading Telco selected Bango DVM for bundling
      • New DVM Telco customer in Benelux marks the first win from an improved Western Europe DVM pipeline
    • First customer launch of the Bango DVM CX (user interface) with Altice in the US. The DVM CX reduces the effort for resellers when launching bundled offers, allowing them to launch much faster. It is sold as an additional license fee.
    • DVM is on track to once again deliver double digit revenue growth in-line with consensus7.

    Transactional

    • 98% of traffic acquired with DOCOMO Digital has been migrated to the Bango platform
    • The high cost of sales routes acquired from DOCOMO Digital have experienced volatility and are below expectation however, given the margin profile of these routes, there is minimal impact to EBITDA. Work to optimize or restructure these routes is ongoing.
    • Bango has disconnected several small, unprofitable routes since the DOCOMO Digital acquisition and continues to launch selected new routes where there is significant growth potential.
    • Core Transactional revenue (excluding the high cost of sales routes) is in-line with expectations.

    Financing

    • Bango has secured financing which will be used to strengthen the balance sheet and provide further flexibility on the timing of cost reductions.
      • Bango has secured an enhanced loan facility from NHN. Under the agreement, the existing loan will increase by $2.85M and include a deferral of principal repayments for 18 months (further information can be found detailed in the RNS announcement published earlier today titled, ‘Loan Agreement and Related Party Transaction’).
      • In addition, Bango has secured a $15M Revolving Credit Facility (RCF) with NatWest. This provides a committed, long-term financing solution that will replace the existing £3M overdraft from Barclays.

    Efficiency Initiatives

    • Bango expects to report FY25 Adj. EBITDA in-line with consensus7
    • Further efficiencies are expected to result in a modest increase to Adj. EBITDA vs consensus7 in FY26 of $1M.
    • A reduction in R&D capital expenditure versus current consensus7, of $0.5M in FY25 and $1M in FY26 is planned.

    Board changes

    • As separately announced, (See ‘Directorate Change’ RNS published today), Anil Malhotra and Frank Bury will formally step down from the Board at the conclusion of the AGM on 30 June 2025.

    Investor Presentation:

    Bango is hosting a presentation, open to all existing and potential shareholders, at 10.30am BST today. Investors can sign up to Investor Meet Company for free and register to join the call here: https://www.investormeetcompany.com/bango-plc/register-investor

    Bango CEO, Paul Larbey, said:

    “2024 was a pivotal year for Bango, marked by strong revenue growth, a significant increase in profitability, and strategic progress across both our Digital Vending Machine® and Payments businesses. We delivered a 16% increase in total revenue and more than doubled Adjusted EBITDA to $15.3M, reflecting the operational leverage of our platform and disciplined cost management. The DVM continues to gain global traction, with 9 new customers added during the year and a strong pipeline rapidly converting in 2025 with 6 new wins including our first customer in South Korea.

    With tens of millions of subscriptions already managed, and the scalability to support hundreds of millions more, Bango is uniquely placed to benefit from the structural shift toward subscription-based services and indirect distribution models. Increasingly, the Bango DVM is becoming the standard platform for subscription bundling – not just in capability, also in reputation. It’s the solution recommended by some of the world’s largest content providers when their partners want to scale subscriptions and build customer engagement, and now serves 6 of the top 8 US communication service providers. This positions Bango at the very heart of the global subscription economy.

    In the Payments business, Bango continues to have a leading position in the market and remains the largest Direct Carrier Billing partner for the Google Play store, the only partner powering DCB for the Amazon store in Japan and the sole provider of online DCB services to NTT DOCOMO Japan – the largest operator, in the most valuable DCB market. With the migration of traffic from the DOCOMO Digital platform to the Bango platform we are optimizing our Payments business for cash and profitability by simplifying operations.

    The financing provided by NatWest and NHN demonstrate strong confidence in Bango’s business model & strategic plan and materially strengthens the balance sheet. The decision to make the strategic investment in DVM coupled with the market growth in “Super bundling” are driving a strong sales pipeline. This combined with disciplined cost management, a reduction in R&D capex and the inherent operational leverage of our platform will deliver a step-change in cash generation in FY26 and drive shareholder returns. We view the future opportunity with both confidence and excitement.”

    See the full RNS announcement: https://bangoinvestor.com/link/XyOG0y

    Notes:

    The Annual Report, including full accounts, is available at, https://bangoinvestor.com/results-reports, and will be sent to shareholders shortly.

    1 Transactional Revenue is revenue derived by charging a percentage of the retail price paid by the consumer and is made up of carrier billing, resale and e-Disti revenue share amounts.
    2 DVM & One Off Revenue includes all DVM license and support fees, revenue from Bango Audiences (discontinued in Q1 FY24) and one off fees including DVM set-up and change requests.
    3Annual Recurring Revenue is the expected annual revenues to be generated in the next 12 months
    based on contracted revenues recognized as at 31 December.
    4 Net Retention is a measure of the retention and expansion of revenue from existing customers over a specific period and is calculated by dividing the ARR from existing customers at the end of a period by the ARR generated from those same customers at the beginning of the period.
    5Adjusted EBITDA is earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortization, negative goodwill, exceptional items and share based payment charge.
    6Net debt is cash and cash equivalents plus short-term investments less loans and borrowings.
    7Current consensus market expectations prior to today’s announcement.

    The information contained within this announcement is deemed to constitute inside information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulations (EU) No.596/2014. Upon the publication of this announcement, this inside information is now considered to be in the public domain. The person responsible for making this announcement on behalf of Bango is Paul Larbey, Chief Executive Officer.  

    For further information, please contact:


    About Bango

    Bango enables content providers to reach more paying customers through global partnerships. Bango revolutionized the monetization of digital content and services, by opening-up online payments to mobile phone users worldwide. Today, the Digital Vending Machine® is driving the rapid growth of the subscriptions economy, powering choice and control for subscribers.

    The world’s largest content providers, including Amazon, Google and Microsoft trust Bango technology to reach subscribers everywhere.

    Bango, where people subscribe. For more information, visit www.bangoinvestor.com

    Subscribe to our news alert service: https://bangoinvestor.com/auth/signup

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scotland Office partnership with Scottish Chambers of Commerce

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Scotland Office partnership with Scottish Chambers of Commerce

    Scottish Secretary Ian Murray, joined by his sleeping baby daughter, and Scottish Chambers of Commerce Chief Executive Liz Cameron sign the deal in Edinburgh

    Scottish Secretary Ian Murray, joined by his sleeping baby daughter, at today’s partnership agreement signing with Scottish Chambers of Commerce Chief Executive Liz Cameron in Queen Elizabeth House, Edinburgh.

    A partnership agreement to launch a Brand Scotland overseas trade missions initiative was signed today (Friday) by the Scotland Office and Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC).

    This collaboration will be supported by a UK Government grant of up to £100,000 for 2025/26 aimed at promoting Scottish trade and attracting foreign direct investment into Scotland.

    As part of the UK Government’s Plan for Change, Brand Scotland is boosting economic growth by promoting Scottish products and services while attracting international inward investment.

    The initiative will include a series of trade missions focused on showcasing Scottish businesses globally.

    Ian Murray and Liz Cameron signed the agreement at the UK Government’s Queen Elizabeth HQ in Edinburgh.

    Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said:

    This agreement will help give Scotland a global platform to sell everything our brilliant country has to offer – from whisky and seafood to our world class services.

    The trio of trade deals secured by the Prime Minister in recent weeks is a huge opportunity for Scotland’s economy – with the most populous country in the world, the richest country in the world and our most important market. This partnership with the Scottish Chambers of Commerce will create valuable opportunities for Scottish firms and help kickstart economic growth as part of our Plan for Change.

    I have already been to Norway, Singapore, Malaysia, and the United States to bang the drum for Scotland and with this partnership we will take businesses to even more markets. The Scotland Office will be Scotland’s window to the world.

    Scottish Chambers of Commerce Chief Executive and Director Dr Liz Cameron CBE said:

    Delivering impactful trade missions that will sell Brand Scotland and our innovative and dynamic businesses will strengthen our global presence. This partnership with the Scotland Office is vital for economic growth and will help more businesses trade internationally and encourage more inward investment.

    The world wants our quality products and services and this significant investment in Brand Scotland will create even more opportunities to sell our nation internationally. Our businesses continue to successfully engage with SCC overseas missions and now by combining forces between SCC and the Scotland Office, we can drive our economy further by providing valuable platforms and alliances for more exporters to sell their fantastic products and services to new global markets.

    Scotland is open for business and we welcome Brand Scotland’s support to allow us to trade with confidence on a world stage.

    Leading entrepreneurs from a variety of sectors have also welcomed the agreement.

    Founder & CEO of Greenock-based PG Paper Dr Poonam Gupta OBE said: 

    At PG Paper, international trade is the backbone of our business. We have built a multi-million pound business by connecting with over 60 countries. This partnership between the Scottish Chambers of Commerce and the Scotland Office sends a clear message: Scotland is ambitious, outward-looking, and ready to lead. The Scotland Office initiative will help businesses like ours expand our international reach, forge high-value connections, and drive economic impact both at home and abroad. This is exactly the kind of bold, collaborative action Scotland needs to accelerate exports and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.

    CEO of Aberdeen-based PCL Group Dr Jeanette Forbes OBE said: 

    As a global IT and energy tech company operating in over 27 countries, we know first-hand how critical international trade is to business growth and innovation. Trade missions are strategic enablers that unlock new markets, foster long-term relationships, and elevate Scotland’s global standing. The collaboration between Scottish Chambers of Commerce and the Scotland Office is exactly the type of public-private partnership needed to amplify Scotland’s voice on the world stage and grow our economies.

    Details of trade missions will be confirmed in due course.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Testing results on Haribo Candies

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​In response to overseas reports suggesting that Haribo candies may be contaminated and tested positive for cannabis, a government spokesperson stated today (June 6) that the Government Laboratory has completed the test on 58 samples of Haribo candy products that had already been removed from shelves. The results showed that none of the samples contained tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a cannabis component. The relevant traders have been informed of the test results.

    Upon receiving relevant information, the Centre for Food Safety (the Centre) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department contacted local food traders and consulted authorities in the Netherlands. The affected batch of products was not imported into Hong Kong, but for prudence sake, the Centre had previously informed the trade to temporarily remove the brand’s candies from shelves.

    The government will continue to closely monitor the situation and take appropriate actions as needed.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Zia Yusuf turned Reform into an election winner – his angry resignation leaves Nigel Farage weakened

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Parveen Akhtar, Senior Lecturer: Politics, History and International Relations, Aston University

    Zia Yusuf, a self-made billionaire and Muslim, has resigned as chairman of Reform, breaking with Nigel Farage just weeks after delivering unprecedented success for the party in local elections.

    Yusuf announced his sudden departure on social media platform X, saying he no longer believed “working to get a Reform government elected is a good use of my time”.

    Having been one of the party’s largest donors, Yusuf was appointed to the role less than a year ago and has widely been credited as the power behind Reform’s professionalisation. He is said to be the driving force behind growing its national infrastructure and membership, which now stands at around 235,000.

    Yusuf’s resignation post came a few hours after another, in which he referred to a question posed in the House of Commons by new Reform MP Sarah Pochin as “dumb”.

    Pochin had used her first chance to speak in the Commons to call on prime minister Keir Starmer to ban burqas in the UK. It is reported that there had been tensions between Yusuf and other figures in Reform, but this appears to have been the straw that broke the camel’s back.

    Sarah Pochin uses a question at PMQs to call for a burqa ban.

    Yusuf has faced Islamophobic abuse from some within the party’s ranks. On social media, some Reform supporters have questioned whether a Muslim can ever truly belong in the party, while others have threatened to leave it because of him.

    Asked on GB News whether Yusuf viewed Pochin’s question as a slight against himself, party leader Nigel Farage suggested instead that Yusuf more likely didn’t see banning the burqa as a high priority issue for Reform. Both Farage and former party chairman Richard Tice have stood by Pochin, saying a debate is needed on banning the burqa.

    Yusuf, once heralded as a rising star in Reform and in British politics, didn’t go into further detail but referred to his successes in the party instead: “I’ve worked full time as a volunteer to take the party from 14 to 30%, quadrupled its membership and delivered historic electoral results.”

    Yusuf was referring to the fact that Reform is currently polling at 30%, has five MPs and has recently taken control of ten councils in England – the first time it has ever held governing roles.

    Shortly after Yusuf’s departure, Nathaniel Fried, who had been brought into Reform to spearhead the party’s Doge-style efficiency drive in local councils, also resigned, stating he had doubts about the future of the project.

    Reform will now be asking itself if it can continue its successful trajectory without theses figures. We’ll soon find out if it was Yusuf alone who was responsible for the professionalisation that has recently delivered so much electoral success.

    Treading a fine line from the start

    When he was first appointed, Yusuf promised to “bring all my expertise, energy and passion to the role to ensure we achieve our mission of returning Great Britain to greatness”. Mirroring the Maga project is the US, Yusuf’s focus was on making the UK great again by controlling the country’s borders and restoring sovereignty.

    Yusuf’s attachment to Reform, a party which has made anti-immigration its political focus, was significant given that his own parents were first-generation immigrants from Sri Lanka. Yet Yusuf was the face of established ethnic minority communities in the UK who have immigration backgrounds but take a tough line on newcomers.

    He describes himself as a British Muslim patriot, who loves his country. My forthcoming research with colleagues details how the justifications used by minorities who voted for Brexit were very similar to those in the public at large – with an uncontrolled immigration being a key issue.

    Party leader Nigel Farage said he was sorry to see Yusuf go and recognised that he was a loss for the party. Farage claimed that the two of them “barely had a disagreement” in working together but that others had not got on well with Yusuf.

    Farage claimed that Yusuf’s business background left him struggling in politics and that he brought a “bit of a Goldman Sachs mentality” to his job, which put him at odds with others. He said interpersonal skills were “at the top of his list of attributes”.

    However, in a significant new development, Farage did acknowledge that Yusuf had faced abuse on social media from the “alt-right”. This was the first time he has ever publicly acknowledged the abundance of racist and Islamophobic abuse Yusuf has received on social media by Reform supporters.

    He did somewhat contradict himself later by blaming “Indian bots” for spreading content that misled Reform voters. Tim Montgomerie, another high-profile former Conservative Reform supporter also cited personal abuse as a factor: “He faced a lot of prejudice, not necessarily from inside the party but on social media, I think that affected him.”

    Given that for years the racism and Islamaphobia faced by Yusuf was never publicly acknowledged, it’s interesting that the party elite clearly see the need to recognise the racism as part of the damage limitation exercise they’ve now had to undertake.

    Want more politics coverage from academic experts? Every week, we bring you informed analysis of developments in government and fact check the claims being made.

    Sign up for our weekly politics newsletter, delivered every Friday.

    No doubt Farage saw Yusuf as an asset to the party. Only days before the falling out, he had heralded him as an example of why Reform could not be accused of being racist: “I would remind everybody that the chairman of the party is Scottish-born, but comes from parents who come from the Indian subcontinent. But we don’t talk about race at all. We think everybody should be treated equally. We object very strongly to the segmentation of people into different types.” Farage acknowledged that Yusuf’s race was a benefit to him when responding to his resignation, too.

    It matters that Reform’s highest profile minority member is no more. It also shows the disunity in a political party which is growing very quickly. This is a pattern from yesteryear. Party infighting used to happen in the old days of Reform’s predecessors, UKIP and the Brexit Party.

    It was a big part of why they did not reach the heights currently being enjoyed by Reform. This is, ironically, the first big test of the professionalisation drive that Yusuf led.

    Parveen Akhtar has previously received funding from the Economic and Social Research Council and the British Academy.

    – ref. Zia Yusuf turned Reform into an election winner – his angry resignation leaves Nigel Farage weakened – https://theconversation.com/zia-yusuf-turned-reform-into-an-election-winner-his-angry-resignation-leaves-nigel-farage-weakened-258382

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: 4 creative ways to engage children in STEM over the summer: Tips to foster curiosity and problem-solving at home

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Amber M. Simpson, Associate Professor of Mathematics Education, Binghamton University, State University of New York

    Families and caregivers can boost children’s confidence and interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics while school is out for summer. heshphoto/Getty Images

    The Trump administration is reshaping the pursuit of science through federal cuts to research grants and the Department of Education. This will have real consequences for students interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM learning.

    One of those consequences is the elimination of learning opportunities such as robotics camps and access to advanced math courses for K-12 students.

    As a result, families and caregivers are more essential than ever in supporting children’s learning.

    Based on my research, I offer four ways to support children’s summer learning in ways that feel playful and engaging but still foster their interest, confidence and skills in STEM.

    1. Find a problem

    To support STEM learning outside of school, encourage children to find and solve problems.
    kali9/Getty Images

    Look for “problems” in or around your home to engineer a solution for. Engineering a solution could include brainstorming ideas, drawing a sketch, creating a prototype or a first draft, testing and improving the prototype and communicating about the invention.

    For example, one family in our research created an upside-down soap dispenser for the following problem: “the way it’s designed” − specifically, the straw − “it doesn’t even reach the bottom of the container. So there’s a lot of soap sitting at the bottom.”

    To identify a problem and engage in the engineering design process, families are encouraged to use common materials. The materials may include cardboard boxes, cotton balls, construction paper, pine cones and rocks.

    Our research found that when children engage in engineering in the home environment with caregivers, parents and siblings, they communicate about and apply science and math concepts that are often “hidden” in their actions.

    For instance, when building a paper roller coaster for a marble, children think about how the height will affect the speed of the marble. In math, this relates to the relationship between two variables, or the idea that one thing, such as height, impacts another, the speed. In science, they are applying concepts of kinetic energy and potential energy. The higher the starting point, the more potential energy is converted into kinetic energy, which makes the marble move faster.

    In addition, children are learning what it means to be an engineer through their actions and experience. Families and caregivers play a role in supporting their creative thinking and willingness to work through challenging problems.

    2. Spark curiosity

    Spontaneous learning moments can lead to deep engagement and learning of STEM concepts.
    cglade/Getty Images

    Open up a space for exploration around STEM concepts driven by their interests.

    Currently, my research with STEM professionals who were homeschooled talk about the power of learning sparked by curiosity.

    One participant stated, “At one time, I got really into ladybugs, well Asian Beatles I guess. It was when we had like hundreds in our house. I was like, what is happening? So, I wanted to figure out like why they were there, and then the difference between ladybugs and Asian beetles because people kept saying, these aren’t actually ladybugs.”

    Researchers label this serendipitous science engagement, or even spontaneous math moments. The moments lead to deep engagement and learning of STEM concepts. This may also be a chance to learn things with your child.

    3. Facilitate thinking

    In my research, being uncertain about STEM concepts may lead to children exploring and considering different ideas. One concept in particular − playful uncertainties − is when parents and caregivers know the answer to a child’s uncertainties but act as if they do not know.

    For example, suppose your child asks, “How can we measure the distance between St. Louis, Missouri, and Nashville, Tennessee, on this map?” You might respond, “I don’t know. What do you think?” This gives children the chance to share their ideas before a parent or caregiver guides them toward a response.

    4. Bring STEM to life

    Overhearing or participating in budget talks can help children develop math skills and financial literacy.
    SeizaVisuals/Getty Images

    Turn ordinary moments into curious conversations.

    “This recipe is for four people, but we have 11 people coming to dinner. What should we do?”

    In a recent interview, one participant described how much they learned from listening in on financial conversations, seeing how decisions got made about money, and watching how bills were handled. They were developing financial literacy and math skills.

    As they noted, “By the time I got to high school, I had a very good basis on what I’m doing and how to do it and function as a person in society.”

    Globally, individuals lack financial literacy, which can lead to negative outcomes in the future when it comes to topics such as retirement planning and debt.

    Why is this important?

    Research shows that talking with friends and family about STEM concepts supports how children see themselves as learners and their later success in STEM fields, even if they do not pursue a career in STEM.

    My research also shows how family STEM participation gives children opportunities to explore STEM ideas in ways that go beyond what they typically experience in school.

    In my view, these kinds of STEM experiences don’t compete with what children learn in school − they strengthen and support it.

    Amber M. Simpson receives funding from the U.S. National Science Foundation.

    – ref. 4 creative ways to engage children in STEM over the summer: Tips to foster curiosity and problem-solving at home – https://theconversation.com/4-creative-ways-to-engage-children-in-stem-over-the-summer-tips-to-foster-curiosity-and-problem-solving-at-home-257407

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Debates over presidential power to suspend habeas corpus resurface in Trump administration

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Brooks D. Simpson, Foundation Professor of History, Arizona State University

    There’s a conflict brewing over the rights of the arrested and detained; it’s not a new conflict. busra İspir, iStock/Getty Images Plus

    The principle of habeas corpus, a legal phrase, is a simple one: Translated from the Latin as “produce the body,” it provides that a judge may compel prosecutors to supply evidence to determine whether someone has been legally detained or arrested.

    In the U.S., a detained or arrested individual, or their legal representative, may ask a judge to decide based on the evidence presented whether the detainee has been legally confined. That process is termed “seeking a writ.”

    Suspending the privilege of the writ, also known as “suspending the writ,” denies that individual or their representation from making that request or a judge from honoring it. The “privilege” in that phrase is a right of the accused.

    In the past few months, members of the Trump administration have raised the issue of the president’s power to suspend the privilege of habeas corpus.

    White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller in May 2025 shared with the media the news that administration officials were exploring the possibility of suspending the privilege of the writ to help the administration deport immigrants quickly.

    Eleven days later, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem declared at a congressional hearing that habeas corpus “is a constitutional right that the president has to be able to remove people from this country,” a misunderstanding of this foundational legal right immediately challenged by New Hampshire Senator Maggie Hassan.

    Article I of the U.S. Constitution declares that “the Privilege of the Writ of Habeas Corpus shall not be suspended, unless when in Cases of Rebellion or Invasion the public Safety may require it.” Suspension is thus a grave and serious matter.

    This is not the first time that Americans have debated which branch of government – the executive branch or Congress – has the power to suspend the privilege of the writ and under what circumstances it may do so.

    Sen. Maggie Hassan asks Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to define habeas corpus; Noem can’t.

    Lincoln and the Great Writ

    Habeas corpus became a major point of controversy during the Civil War, when President Abraham Lincoln suspended the privilege of the writ, first in parts of Maryland and later throughout the nation, without seeking prior congressional approval.

    While the Constitution provides for the suspension of the writ, the document is silent as to who has the power to exercise this authority. Although most of this section of the Constitution concerns the powers of Congress, it also addresses the power and authority of other branches in specific instances. And the use of the passive voice – “shall not be suspended” – in this section leaves the question of who can suspend the writ open to interpretation.

    The questions of who may suspend the privilege of the writ and under what circumstances emerged in the spring of 1861.

    On April 12, Confederate forces fired on U.S.-controlled Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor, South Carolina, an act that is considered the formal start of the war. A week later, Marylanders supporting secession clashed with militia from Massachusetts and Pennsylvania who were making their way through Baltimore to defend Washington.

    Lincoln refused to honor requests from Maryland Governor Thomas Hicks and Baltimore Mayor George Brown to avoid transporting reinforcements through Baltimore. The president initially tried to skirt any conflict by routing the reinforcements through Annapolis.

    This proved a stopgap measure. On April 27, Lincoln authorized General Winfield Scott, commanding general of the U.S. Army, to suspend the privilege of the writ between Philadelphia and Washington, if necessary. This would permit arbitrary arrests and detaining of people determined to be acting in support of the insurrection.

    Taney challenges Lincoln

    To protect national security, U.S. military authorities arrested John Merryman on May 25, 1861. Merryman, who was from Baltimore, was suspected of involvement in destroying railroad bridges to obstruct Union troop movements.

    Chief Justice Roger B. Taney honored a request from Merryman’s lawyers to issue a writ of habeas corpus, only to have federal military authorities refuse to produce Merryman, who remained at his cell in Fort McHenry.

    Taney then ruled that neither Lincoln nor military personnel under his command could suspend the privilege of the writ when it came to civilians such as Merryman.

    “If at any time the public safety should require the suspension of the powers vested by this act in the courts of the United States, it is for the Legislature to say so,” wrote Taney, quoting an 1807 opinion by Chief Justice John Marshall.

    Days later, on June 1, Taney offered a more extended decision reflecting his reasoning that Congress, not the president, could suspend the privilege of the writ.

    Taney was challenging the president’s authority to act unilaterally.

    Lincoln ignored Taney’s ruling. He reasoned that in time of emergency, especially with Congress not in session, he – as president – was compelled to act in the interests of national security. He did so to protect the movement of troops through Maryland to defend the national capital.

    Not only did Lincoln’s order remain in place, but the president later expanded its geographic scope in several instances, most notably in September 1862. On the heels of issuing the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, Lincoln authorized the detention of individuals accused of obstructing efforts to raise troops or who sought to support the rebellion.

    Unwilling to concede that Lincoln’s actions need not seek congressional approval, Congress, first in 1861, then through the Habeas Corpus Act of 1863 offered retroactive sanction of the actions of the executive branch and, in 1863, empowered Lincoln to suspend the privilege of the writ in the future in the interests of national security for the duration of the rebellion.

    Democrats, however, criticized Lincoln’s actions as arbitrary, unconstitutional and smacking of tyranny.

    President Abraham Lincoln’s 1862 proclamation suspending the use of habeas corpus.
    Mississippi State University

    Executive overreach?

    Almost a decade later, in 1871, President Ulysses S. Grant declined to act on his own to suspend the privilege of the writ to prosecute white supremacist terrorists in the Reconstruction South, requiring that Congress first pass legislation authorizing him to do so.

    Since the Civil War, only once has a president unilaterally suspended the privilege of the writ without prior congressional authorization. That’s what President Franklin D. Roosevelt did in Hawaii after the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, in order to combat any suspicious activity that might be construed as espionage.

    With Congress currently in session, lawmakers could authorize the president to suspend the privilege of the writ to set aside debates over executive overreach. Otherwise, presidents might define as emergencies situations that do not meet the extreme circumstances envisioned by the Constitution while sidestepping congressional approval.

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

    – ref. Debates over presidential power to suspend habeas corpus resurface in Trump administration – https://theconversation.com/debates-over-presidential-power-to-suspend-habeas-corpus-resurface-in-trump-administration-257195

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • Northeast India’s social and cultural transformation strengthens national integration

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Northeast India is undergoing a profound social and cultural renaissance, emerging as a model of inclusive development and heritage preservation, as outlined in a recent Press Information Bureau release. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of the Northeast as “Ashta Lakshmi” underscores its diverse strengths, with the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) spearheading initiatives to integrate the region into India’s mainstream.

    Social development milestones are reshaping the region. On May 20, 2025, Mizoram achieved full functional literacy, becoming India’s first fully literate state through the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram. Building on its 91.33% literacy rate from the 2011 Census, this historic achievement marks a significant step in educational progress. In healthcare, Assam is establishing South Asia’s largest cancer care network, with eight hospitals already operational in districts like Dibrugarh and Kokrajhar, and seven more under construction in areas such as Nagaon and Tinsukia. Additionally, 15 new medical colleges are being set up in Assam to enhance healthcare access.

    Cultural preservation is a cornerstone of the Northeast’s transformation. In July 2024, Assam’s Moidams, the mound-burial system of the Ahom Dynasty, were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, celebrating 600 years of Tai-Ahom heritage. Sivasagar is being developed as an iconic site with an on-site museum, while a tribal freedom fighter museum honoring Rani Gaidinliu has been established in Manipur. The 400th birth anniversary of Lachit Borphukan, the Ahom general who defeated the Mughals in the 1671 Battle of Saraighat, was commemorated in 2022, highlighting unsung heroes. The North Eastern Handicrafts & Handlooms Development Corporation Limited (NEHHDC) is revitalizing traditional crafts through the Purbashree e-commerce portal, a textile testing laboratory, and “Purbashree On Wheels.”

    The Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav, held from December 6-8, 2024, showcased the region’s textiles, GI-tagged products, and crafts, featuring Eri and Muga silk and attracting Rs 2,500 crore in project proposals. An Eri Silk Spinning Plant in Mushalpur, Assam, with a 200 kg/day capacity, has provided direct employment to 375 individuals and indirect livelihoods to 2,500 households, supported by a digital traceability network for 10,000 weavers across seven states.

    Peace and security initiatives have created a stable foundation for these advancements. Nine peace accords since 2014, including the 2020 Bodo Peace Accord and the 2023 DNLA Peace Agreement, have significantly reduced violence and resolved inter-state disputes, such as the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh boundary agreement. The North Eastern Region District SDG Index, developed with NITI Aayog and UNDP-India, ranks 103 districts on social, economic, and environmental parameters, guiding policy implementation.

    By blending social progress with cultural preservation, the Northeast is not only catching up with the rest of India but also setting a global example of sustainable and inclusive development, driven by flagship initiatives like NESIDS and PM-DevINE.

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: USS Tripoli forward deploys to Japan

    Source: United States Navy

    SAN DIEGO – The America-class amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7) departed Naval Base San Diego May 19 to forward deploy to Sasebo, Japan, as part of a scheduled rotation of forces in the Pacific. The Tripoli will replace the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), which will depart Sasebo and move to San Diego.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Crown Point Man Sentenced to 54 Months in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HAMMOND- Daeshawn Jones, 29 years old, of Crown Point, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

    Jones was sentenced to 54 months in prison followed by 24 months of supervised release.

    According to documents in the case, on October 8, 2023, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in Merrillville, Indiana, in which Jones was a passenger.  During a search of the vehicle, a loaded semi-automatic pistol with an obliterated serial number was discovered from the rear driver’s side seat. Jones attempted to flee but was apprehended.  His criminal history revealed that he had a prior 2022 Illinois felony conviction for attempted criminal sexual assault/force and a 2021 Indiana felony conviction for forgery, and as such, he is prohibited from possessing the firearm. 

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force and the Merrillville Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kristian R. Mukoski.         

    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 violent crime and gun violence, 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.

    MIL Security OSI –