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Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-Evening Report: Gluten intolerance and coeliac disease can both cause nausea, bloating and pain. What’s the difference?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Yasmine Probst, Professor, School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences. Advanced Accredited Practising Dietitian, University of Wollongong

    fotodrobik/Shutterstock

    Around one in ten Australians say they follow a gluten-free diet.

    This means eliminating common foods – such as bread, pasta and noodles – that contain gluten, a protein found mainly in wheat, barley and rye.

    Not everyone who follows a gluten-free diet has an underlying condition. But if you experience nausea, bloating or stomach pain after eating gluten, it could be the sign of a gluten intolerance, or coeliac disease.

    While gluten intolerance and coeliac disease share many similar symptoms, one can cause intestinal damage and malnutrition. So, what’s the difference?

    What is coeliac disease?

    Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disease. This means the body mistakenly starts attacking healthy cells and tissue – in this case, in the small intestine – causing inflammation.

    It affects around one in 70 Australians, but only 20% of this group are diagnosed.

    If you have coeliac disease, eating foods that contain gluten can damage your villi, structures in the small intestine that help the body absorb nutrients.

    Following a meal containing gluten, you may experience digestive problems including diarrhoea, bloating, nausea, gas and abdominal pain.

    Coeliac disease can lead to long-term damage in the small intenstine.
    Sakurra/Shutterstock

    Gluten can also cause non-digestive symptoms such as brain fog, headaches, dermatitis herpetiformis (an itchy, blistery skin rash), joint pain and fatigue.

    In the long term, untreated coeliac disease can lead to malnutrition because the damaged villi can’t absorb nutrients from food. It can also reduce bone mineral density and has been linked to neurological disorders such as epilepsy and dementia.

    How is coeliac disease diagnosed?

    For an accurate diagnosis, you must not have eliminated gluten from your diet yet. This is so its effect on your digestive system can be measured.

    A diagnosis involves blood tests followed by biopsies of the small intestine using an endoscope (an instrument with a light that can look inside the body).

    Blood tests look for antigens – markers of a reaction to gluten – while the biopsy inspects any damage to the villi in the intestine.

    In some cases, a capsule endoscopy, where a pill-sized camera is swallowed, is used to look at the intestine and observe for damage.

    What about gluten intolerance?

    People with gluten intolerance experience similar symptoms to coeliac disease. The difference is, after consuming gluten, there is no autoimmune response or intestinal damage.

    Gluten intolerance is sometimes known as non-coeliac gluten sensitivity.

    An estimated 1% of Australians live with a gluten intolerance, but only 12 in every 100 of this group are diagnosed by a doctor.

    Doctors will rule out coeliac disease and wheat allergies as a first step for a person with symptoms related to eating gluten.

    Once these have been ruled out, a gluten-free diet trial, supervised by an accredited practising dietitian, might be recommended to see if symptoms improve.

    A formal diagnosis of gluten intolerance can only be confirmed using a highly complex dietary trial that compares the effect of gluten and a placebo over at least eight weeks.

    This form of scientific study is very labour-intensive and not very common.

    So instead many people just choose to eliminate gluten, without a diagnosis.

    Extreme sensitivity to gluten

    Coeliac disease is more severe than gluten intolerance and sensitivity can vary among those diagnosed.

    Even traces of gluten can trigger symptoms. This means a strict, lifelong, gluten-free diet essential.

    It also means people with coeliac disease have to be careful about cross-contamination. For example, using the same knife, chopping board or toaster to cut or toast gluten-free bread and regular bread can transfer gluten particles and cause a reaction.

    According to the latest studies, consuming just 50mg of gluten per day is enough to cause intestinal damage for people with coeliac disease.

    For context, a slice of whole-wheat bread contains about 4,800mg of gluten, meaning 50mg is around 1/100th of a slice of bread.

    A small amount of gluten won’t affect someone with gluten intolerance in the same way. They may have temporary symptoms, but won’t experience intestinal damage.

    However, the symptoms and their severity can vary from person to person, depending on their individual sensitivity.



    Read more:
    What’s the difference between a food allergy and an intolerance?

    Should I cut out gluten, just in case?

    You might be wondering if there is a downside to avoiding gluten, if you don’t have coeliac disease or an intolerance.

    There can be.

    Grain foods that contain gluten are rich in essential nutrients such as fibre, folate, iron and B-group vitamins.

    Avoiding gluten when you don’t need to can lead to nutritional deficiencies.

    Gluten-free products can also be more expensive and are sometimes higher in sugar, salt and fat to help compensate for texture and taste.

    Before making any changes to your diet, it is best to speak with an accredited practising dietitian to make sure you’re not missing out on important nutrients.

    So, what if you have symptoms?

    Common signs of a gluten intolerance or coeliac disease include bloating, diarrhoea or constipation, and stomach pain. Both conditions can trigger non-gastrointestinal symptoms such as headaches, fatigue and joint pain.

    If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s best to speak to a health-care professional who may test you for coeliac disease and/or a wheat allergy before eliminating gluten from your diet.

    Remember, self-diagnosing and removing gluten without proper guidance might do you more harm than good.

    If your symptoms concern you, speak to your GP, a gastroenterologist or a qualified dietitian. Dietitians Australia has a list of accredited practising dietitians.

    Yasmine Probst receives funding from Multiple Sclerosis Australia.

    Olivia Wills 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. Gluten intolerance and coeliac disease can both cause nausea, bloating and pain. What’s the difference? – https://theconversation.com/gluten-intolerance-and-coeliac-disease-can-both-cause-nausea-bloating-and-pain-whats-the-difference-253235

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tse Chin-wan heads for Chongqing

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Environment & Ecology Tse Chin-wan will depart for Chongqing this afternoon to attend the “National Event on the Environment Day 2025”, scheduled for tomorrow.

    The environmental protection publicity event is organised by the Ministry of Ecology & Environment each year on June 5 in a different city.

    The event in Chongqing will showcase the achievements in promoting the construction of Beautiful China Pilot Zones across the country and advocate for the people’s active participation in constructing a beautiful China.

    The 2025 event is co-organised by the Central Office of Spiritual Civilization Construction, and the Chongqing Municipal People’s Government directly under the central government.

    Mr Tse will return to Hong Kong tomorrow evening. During his absence, Under Secretary for Environment & Ecology Diane Wong will be Acting Secretary.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: National Accounts March quarter 2025

    Source: Australian Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industry

    Today’s National Accounts show that our economy continues to grow in the face of substantial economic headwinds at home and abroad.

    While overall growth in the Australian economy remains subdued, the private sector recovery we have planned and prepared for is gradually taking hold.

    With all the uncertainty in the world, any growth is a decent outcome.

    Lower public demand, combined with global economic uncertainty and the impact of natural disasters, meant growth was weaker than expected.

    Even with these challenges, we are seeing private demand and incomes continuing to recover.

    Today’s numbers show the private sector stepping up as public demand steps back.

    The economy grew 0.2 per cent in the March quarter, leaving annual growth steady at 1.3 per cent.

    While growth in the quarter was weaker than expected, the Australian economy remains one of the strongest in the world.

    No major advanced economy has achieved what we have, with unemployment in the low 4s, inflation below 2.5 per cent and continuous growth for three years.

    Public demand has played a role in keeping the economy from going backwards over the past two years, but we know strong and sustainable economic growth is driven by the private sector.

    Our plan has always focused on restoring the private sector to its rightful place as the main driver of growth in our economy.

    While the private sector‑led recovery was always going to be gradual, today’s data shows encouraging signs it is continuing.

    Private demand grew 0.5 per cent, contributing 0.3 of a percentage point to growth in the quarter.

    The contribution from private demand was greater than overall GDP growth.

    Growth in private demand was broad based, with consumption, new business investment and dwelling investment all growing in the quarter.

    These three components have grown at the same time in only around 1 in every 3 quarters since records began.

    Consumption grew 0.4 per cent in the quarter, contributing 0.2 of a percentage point to growth.

    Consumption growth was weighed down by the impact of natural disasters and households continuing to exercise caution in spending, with the saving ratio rising to 5.2 per cent – the highest in more than two and a half years.

    While consumption growth was modest in the quarter, it was encouraging to see solid growth in real incomes per capita.

    Getting real incomes growing again has been central to our Government’s economic strategy after they were going backwards 1.7 per cent when we came to office.

    Real incomes per capita grew 1.1 per cent in the quarter and are up 1.7 per cent through the year. This is the strongest quarterly growth rate for real incomes in more than three years.

    Growth in real incomes reflects a combination of moderating inflation, solid wage and employment growth, the Government’s tax cuts for every taxpayer and lower interest rates. There was also some support from insurance claims related to weather events.

    In the second half of last year real incomes in Australia grew faster than the OECD average and almost twice the G7 average, and we have now recorded a third consecutive quarter of real income growth.

    Private investment was an important contributor to growth in the quarter, driven by dwelling investment and new business investment.

    Dwelling investment grew by a solid 2.6 per cent in the quarter, to be 5.6 per cent higher through the year, well above average quarterly growth over the past ten years of just 0.2 per cent. This is the type of investment the Government’s $43 billion Homes for Australia Plan will continue to encourage as we deliver on our housing agenda.

    New business investment rose 0.4 per cent in the quarter, driven by construction investment, taking the level of business investment to a 12 year high.

    Since we came to office, new business investment has grown by an annualised average of 4.4 per cent, compared to an average decline of 1.3 per cent under our predecessors.

    Public demand fell 0.5 per cent in the quarter, detracting 0.1 of a percentage point from growth. The moderation in public demand growth means that public demand as a share of GDP fell in the quarter by 0.3 of a percentage point.

    The quarterly fall in public demand was driven by a wrap up of a number of large projects in the previous quarter and partly by a moderation in growth of NDIS spending due to the Government’s reforms.

    Net exports detracted 0.1 of a percentage point from growth, reflecting the impact of natural disasters and subdued global economic conditions.

    Extreme weather events had an impact on mining, tourism and shipping activities in the quarter. Coal export volumes declined by 6.4 per cent in the quarter, weighing down overall non‑rural goods exports, which fell 2.3 per cent.

    Despite all the challenges coming at us, Australians are earning more and keeping more of what they earn under Labor.

    Compensation of employees grew by 1.5 per cent in the quarter, to be 6.5 per cent through the year. This has seen the wage share of income rise to 53.7 per cent from the below 50 per cent before we came to office.

    Wages in future quarters will be supported by the Fair Work Commission’s welcome decision to award a real wage increase for award workers.

    Our tax cuts for every taxpayer have contributed to another fall in tax as a share of income. Income tax as a share of income was 15.5 per cent in the quarter, down from 16.3 per cent in the quarter before our tax cuts started rolling out.

    The substantial and sustained progress we’ve made on inflation was confirmed again in today’s data, with the National Accounts consumption deflator moderating to 3.3 per cent in annual terms, the lowest in three years.

    The first of the interest rate cuts saw mortgage interest costs fall in the quarter. As the rate cuts flow through to household mortgages, we expect them to play more of a role in boosting real incomes in future quarters.

    Under Labor, inflation is down, real wages and living standards are rising, unemployment is low, interest rates are falling and the economy is continuing to grow.

    All of this progress Australians have made together means that we are well placed and well prepared for the heightened uncertainty and volatility in the global economy in the period ahead.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: North America high-net-worth individual population surges, while Europe and Middle East shrink

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press contact:
    Fahd Pasha
    Tel.: +1 647 860 3777
    E-mail: Fahd.Pasha@capgemini.com

    North America high-net-worth individual population surges, while Europe and Middle East shrink

    • U.S. led the world in growth in its millionaire population, adding 562,000 to reach 7.9 million
    • Ultra-high net worth individual population rises by 6.2% worldwide
    • High-net-worth individuals now allocate 15% of their portfolios to alternative investments, including cryptocurrencies

    Paris, June 4, 2025 – The Capgemini Research Institute’s World Wealth Report 2025, published today, reveals the global high-net-worth individuals1(HNWIs) population rose by 2.6% in 2024. Now in its 29thedition, the report finds this increase was driven by the growth in the population of ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs), which grew by 6.2%, as strong stock markets and AI optimism boosted portfolio returns. The data indicates that alternative investments2, such as private equity and cryptocurrencies, are now an established presence in HNWI holdings, representing 15% of their portfolios.

    Bullish stock market performance in the U.S. fuels wealth increase
    A favorable interest rate environment and strong U.S. equity market returns helped boost wealth creation in 2024. North America saw the biggest gains, with the HNWI population rising by 7.3%. In contrast, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East saw declines in their HNWI populations, as macroeconomic challenges weighed.

    At the end of 2024, according to Capgemini’s research: 

    • Europe’s HNWI population declined 2.1% due to economic stagnation in major countries, with United Kingdom, France and Germany losing 14,000, 21,000 and 41,000 millionaires, respectively. In contrast, Europe’s UHNWI population rose 3.5%, reflecting increased wealth concentration.
    • Asia-Pacific’s HNWI population increased 2.7%, with notable variability across the region.
    • Latin America’s HNWI population declined 8.5%, due to currency depreciation and fiscal instability. Brazil (-13.3%) and Mexico (-13.5%) witnessed the biggest population declines.
    • The Middle East’s HNWI population declined 2.1%, driven by lower oil prices.

    Within the largest individual markets, the U.S. was the clear leader, adding 562,000 millionaires as the country’s HNWI population grew by 7.6% to 7.9 million. India and Japan were standouts in the Asia-Pacific region, with both countries registering 5.6% growth, adding 20,000 and 210,000 millionaires, respectively. In contrast, growth in China was negative, with HNWI population declining by 1.0%.

    Next-gen HNWIs seek wealth management firms that align with investment priorities
    Wealth management firms are actively preparing for a new era of wealth transfer in which 83.5 trillion USD3 will change hands over the next two decades, creating the next generation of HNWIs4. According to the report, this handover will unfold in three phases: 30% of HNWIs will receive an inheritance by the end of 2030, 63% will inherit wealth by the end of 2035, and 84% by 2040.

    “The great wealth transfer will be a defining moment for the industry. Despite global wealth on the rise, 81% of inheritors plan to switch firms within one to two years of inheritance. Potentially losing these unsatisfied clients is going to create significant risk for the global wealth management sector,” said Kartik Ramakrishnan, CEO of Capgemini’s Financial Services Strategic Business Unit and Group Executive Board Member. “The next-generation of high-net-worth individuals arrive with vastly different expectations to their parents. This necessitates an urgent shift away from traditional strategies to effectively cater to their evolving needs on this wealth journey. Firms must also prepare to equip advisors with the digital capabilities, potentially augmented with agentic or generative AI, to mitigate the risk of losing both clients and key employees.”

    As of January 2025, HNWI investors parked 15% of their portfolios in alternative investments, including private equity and cryptocurrencies. They are willing to take more risks to expand their wealth – allocating capital to higher growth asset classes and niche product offerings, notably by 61% of millennial and Gen Z HNWIs.

    To attract next-gen HNWIs, wealth management firms must rethink
    The report highlights that wealth management firms need to refresh and revamp their services and offerings to resonate with the next-gen HNWI customer base. Including:

    • Private equity and cryptocurrencies: 88% of advisors observe a greater interest in alternative assets amongst this group of investors over baby boomers
    • New offshore booking centers: 50% of advisors indicate their lack of capabilities in emerging wealth hubs – Singapore, Hong Kong, UAE and Saudi Arabia – will drive these clients to alternate firms, as they seek diversification, better returns and a favorable regulatory environment
    • Tailored services: concierge services such as luxury travel, medical care, and safeguarding against cyber threats, rank as the top non-financial value-added service most sought after
    • Digital interactions: advisors rank a digital platform providing a holistic client view and actionable insights as the most important capability to effectively serve next-gen HNWIs, followed by intelligent automation of operational tasks like meeting summaries and emails

    Insufficient support from wealth management firms makes advisors a flight risk
    According to the report, one-in-three advisors express dissatisfaction with their firms’ lack of digital capabilities, negatively impacting their productivity, and creating a technological divide. In addition, 62% of next-gen HNWIs say they would follow their advisor if they moved to a different firm. Altogether, this directly impacts retention, as advisors struggle to engage these digital-native clients.

    Beyond digital resources, the industry is on the cusp of a talent shortage amid an unprecedented transfer of wealth to Gen X, millennial, and Gen Z inheritors. In the next 12 months, one in four advisors plan to be on the move, with a majority transitioning to a competitor firm and a few starting their own ventures. Additionally, 20% of advisors say they will retire by 2035, with 48% planning to retire by 2040.

    As the great wealth transfer unfolds, the wealth management industry will need to reimagine product offerings through tailored investment options for next-gen HNWIs. Firms must empower and engage advisors with an intuitive digital experience across all channels to secure their loyalty, the report concludes.

    Read the full report: Sailing through the Great Wealth Transfer

    Report Methodology
    The World Wealth Report 2025 market-sizing model covers 71 countries, accounting for more than 98% of global gross national income and 99% of world stock market capitalization. The Capgemini 2025 Global HNW Insights Survey questioned 6,472 HNWIs including 5,473 Next-gen HNWIs across four regions: Americas, Europe, and Asia-Pacific and Middle East. The 2025 Wealth Management Executive Survey includes 141 responses across 10 markets, with representation from pure WM firms, universal banks, independent broker/dealer firms, and family offices. The 2025 Relationship Manager Survey, executed by Phronesis Partners, includes 1,306 responses across twelve markets.

    About Capgemini
    Capgemini is a global business and technology transformation partner, helping organizations to accelerate their dual transition to a digital and sustainable world, while creating tangible impact for enterprises and society. It is a responsible and diverse group of 340,000 team members in more than 50 countries. With its strong over 55-year heritage, Capgemini is trusted by its clients to unlock the value of technology to address the entire breadth of their business needs. It delivers end-to-end services and solutions leveraging strengths from strategy and design to engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, generative AI, cloud and data, combined with its deep industry expertise and partner ecosystem. The Group reported 2024 global revenues of €22.1 billion.

    Get The Future You Want | www.capgemini.com

    About the Capgemini Research Institute
    The Capgemini Research Institute is Capgemini’s in-house think-tank on all things digital. The Institute publishes research on the impact of digital technologies on large traditional businesses. The team draws on the worldwide network of Capgemini experts and works closely with academic and technology partners. The Institute has dedicated research centers in India, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States. It was ranked #1 in the world for the quality of its research by independent analysts for six consecutive times – an industry first.
    Visit us at www.capgemini.com/researchinstitute

    1 HNWIs are high-net-worth individuals with investable assets of USD1 million or more, excluding their primary residence, collectibles, consumables, and consumer durables. HNWIs are segmented into three categories based on wealth bands: Ultra-HNWIs (USD30 million or more), Mid-Tier Millionaires (USD5-30M) and Millionaires Next Door (USD1-5M).
    2 Alternative investments include commodities, currencies, private equity, hedge funds, structured products, and digital assets
    3 UBS, “Global Wealth Report 2024”
    4 Gen X (aged 44 to 59 years as of 2025), millennial (aged 28-43 years as of 2025), and Gen Z (12 to 27 years as of 2025) inheritors are referenced as “next-gen HNWIs” to signify the generational shift in HNWI wealth

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Taskforce Artemis

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    A joint South Australian (SA) and Northern Territory (NT) Police Taskforce has charged a man with historical child abuse offences against young people from the Northern Territory that occurred in South Australia.

    Taskforce Artemis was launched in October 2023 shortly after a now 65-year-old man was arrested by SA Police for 2 historical child abuse offences allegedly committed in South Australia.

    The charges relate to 30 victims, with the alleged offending occurring between 1990 to 2023 in South Australia.

    SA and NT Police, along with South Australian ODPP Witness Assistance officers have continued to engage with all victims and witnesses to provide support and assistance.

    The 65-year-old man is currently on remand and has now been charged with:

    • 12 x Sexual Abuse of a Child
    •  8 x Indecent Assault
    • 6 x Unlawful Sexual Intercourse
    • 4 x Assault
    • 3 x Aggravated Indecent Assault
    • 3 x Possess Child Exploitation Material
    • 2 x Aggravated Incite or procure Child to Commit Indecent Act
    • 2 x Aggravated Assault
    • 1 x Aggravated Compelled Sexual Manipulation
    • 1 x Attempt Indecent Assault
    • 1 x Attempt Aggravated Incite or Procure Child to Commit Indecent Act
    • 1 x Gross Indecency

    He appeared in SA District Court today.

    South Australian Police Acting Assistant Commissioner Crime Service Catherine Hilliard said “Operation Artemis has been a complex and incredibly confronting investigation.

    “The SA Police have been working closing with the NTPF as we conducted investigations into this offending.

    “The privacy and safety of the victims, remains our number one priority. We have been providing updates, along with support, to everyone effected.”

    Northern Territory Police Force Assistant Commissioner Michael White said “While the scale of the alleged offending discovered during investigations by Task Force Artemis is disturbing, it is important the community be aware that these investigations have been methodical and not resulted in any other person being charged with respect to the alleged offending.

    “The NTPF is working closely with those effected.”

    Members of the public who have any information about people involved in child abuse and exploitation are urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https://crimestoppers.com.au/ or to contact NTPF Police on 131 444.

    You can also make a report online by alerting the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation via the ‘Report Abuse’ button at www.accce.gov.au/report.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Joint taskforce leads to further charges of child abuse

    Source: New South Wales – News

    A joint South Australia and Northern Territory Police Taskforce has charged a man with historical child abuse offences against young people from the Northern Territory that occurred in South Australia.

    Taskforce Artemis was launched in October 2023, shortly after a now 65-year-old man was arrested by SA Police for two historical child abuse offences allegedly committed in South Australia.

    The charges relate to 30 victims, with the alleged offending occurring between 1990 to 2023 in South Australia.

    SA and NT Police, along with South Australian ODPP Witness Assistance officers have continued to engage with all victims and witnesses to provide support and assistance.

    The 65-year-old man is currently on remand and has now been charged with:

    * 12 counts of sexual abuse of a child

    * 8 counts of indecent assault

    * 6 counts of unlawful sexual intercourse

    * 4 counts of assault

    * 3 counts of aggravated indecent assault

    * 3 counts of possess child exploitation material

    * 2 counts of aggravated incite or procure child to commit indecent act

    * 2 counts of aggravated assault

    * 1 count of aggravated compelled sexual manipulation

    * 1 count of attempt indecent assault

    * 1 count of attempt aggravated incite or procure child to commit indecent act

    * 1 count of gross indecency

    He appeared in the SA District Court today.

    South Australian Police Acting Assistant Commissioner Crime Service Catherine Hilliard said, “Operation Artemis has been a complex and incredibly confronting investigation.

    “The SA Police have been working closely with the NTPF as we conduct investigations into this offending.

    “The privacy and safety of the victims remains our number one priority. We have been providing updates, along with support, to everyone effected.”

    Northern Territory Police Force Assistant Commissioner Michael White said, “While the scale of the alleged offending discovered during investigations by Task Force Artemis is disturbing, it is important the community be aware that these investigations have been methodical and not resulted in any other person being charged with respect to the alleged offending.

    “The NTPF is working closely with those effected.”

    Members of the public who have any information about people involved in child abuse and exploitation are urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https://crimestopperssa.com.au/ You can remain anonymous.

    You can also make a report online by alerting the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation via the ‘Report Abuse’ button at www.accce.gov.au/report

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ACCC grants interim authorisation to allow Battery Stewardship Scheme to continue with limited levy and rebate adjustments

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    ACCC grants interim authorisation to allow Battery Stewardship Scheme to continue with limited levy and rebate adjustments.

    The ACCC has granted interim authorisation with a condition to the Battery Stewardship Council (BSC) to continue operating the Battery Stewardship Scheme with a limited adjustment of the Scheme’s levy and rebates.

    The BSC was formed in 2018 with the primary goal of establishing a Battery Stewardship Scheme to significantly increase battery collections and recycling in Australia.

    In September 2020, the ACCC granted authorisation to the BSC to establish and operate a national scheme which manages end-of-life batteries. Under the Scheme, the BSC imposes a weight-based levy on imported batteries at a rate of 4 cents per equivalent battery unit.

    By granting interim authorisation, the ACCC will allow the BSC to adjust the levy to take account of changes in the Consumer Price Index since the Scheme’s commencement.

    “The Scheme results in significant environmental benefits by diverting the number of batteries headed for landfill, as well as raising public awareness around battery disposal and re-use,” ACCC Deputy Chair Mick Keogh said.

    “This interim authorisation is needed to ensure the Scheme’s financial viability, given that costs have risen since its inception.”

    Under the interim authorisation, the BSC will also be able to progress the development of new levy arrangements involving an eco-modulated levy to be applied based on battery type. This aims to provide sufficient funding to ensure that rebates provided to participants in the Scheme reflect the actual costs of safe collection and sorting, and to reward processing performance.

    “Granting interim authorisation provides the BSC with financial stability, enabling it to maintain the Battery Stewardship Scheme while the ACCC completes its assessment of the proposed broader levy and rebate arrangements,” Mr Keogh said.

    In order to address the continued risk of harm from consumers storing button batteries, the ACCC has imposed a condition that the BSC continue implementing its Button Battery Safety Strategy.

    “We acknowledge the broader issues raised by interested parties in relation to the Scheme’s performance so far as well as the pathway forward,” Mr Keogh said.

    “We will investigate these issues further in our draft determination.”

    The interim authorisation will take effect from 4 June 2025 and will remain in place until the ACCC issues its final determination, unless it is revoked or amended by the ACCC.

    The ACCC is continuing to assess the BSC’s substantive application, which includes proposals to broaden the scope of the Scheme and further develop levy and rebate mechanisms. Stakeholders will have a further opportunity to comment on the ACCC’s draft determination.

    More information, including the ACCC’s reason for decision, is available online on the ACCC’s public register at Battery Stewardship Council.

    Note to editors

    ACCC authorisation provides statutory protection from court action for conduct that might otherwise raise concerns under the competition provisions of the Competition and Consumer Act (CCA).

    Section 91 of the CCA allows the ACCC to grant interim authorisation when it considers it is appropriate and in the public benefit. This allows the parties to engage in proposed conduct while the ACCC is considering the merits of the substantive CCA authorisation application.

    The ACCC may review a decision on interim authorisation at any time, including in response to feedback raised following interim authorisation.

    Background

    Product stewardship is an environmental management strategy that means whoever designs, produces, sells or uses a product takes responsibility for minimising that product’s environmental impact through all of the stages of its life cycle.

    The BSC is a not-for-profit entity established to oversee the Battery Stewardship Scheme, which promotes the safe collection, recycling, and disposal of end-of-life batteries. The scheme does not cover automotive lead-acid batteries or batteries already included in other recycling programs.

    The BSC first sought authorisation in 2020 for a static, weight-based levy which was charged on imported batteries at a rate of 4 cents per equivalent battery unit. The weight-based charge on imported batteries (or equivalent fee to be paid by members of the scheme) is to be passed on to consumers as a visible levy and used to fund the scheme and a rebate system for service providers responsible for the battery’s collection, sorting and processing.

    That authorisation is due to expire on 26 September 2025.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Ahead of the Brisbane Olympics, it’s time for Australia to get serious about esports

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Craig McNulty, Senior Lecturer in Exercise Physiology, Queensland University of Technology

    Roman Kosolapov/Shutterstock

    Most of us have heard of esports but many don’t realise the fast-growing world of competitive video gaming features tournaments, university scholarships and billions of dollars in revenue.

    As we approach the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games, it’s time for Australia to develop esports talent pathways and invest in infrastructure.

    Doing so would create social benefits and economic opportunities, creating jobs in game development, content creation, events and tourism.

    The athletes

    For those unaware, esports refers to the organised, competitive playing of video games. All esports are video games but not all video games are esports.

    Esports players compete in competitions ranging from online ranked play (where you get an Elo rating, like chess) to live, in-person tournaments.

    Popular games include League of Legends, Dota 2 and Counter-Strike.

    Professional players compete in leagues and tournaments, online or in packed stadiums.

    Like most pro athletes, these players often train with their teams daily, and many also train by themselves informally. During training, they are honing reflexes, refining tactics and analysing opponents.

    Some competitions offer prize pools worth millions and global audiences can rival major traditional sports broadcasts.

    Like traditional sports, esports athletes are scouted young, attend development academies and receive university scholarships.

    An Olympic horizon?

    Esports has been around in some form since the 1970s but it’s exploded into the mainstream in the past decade.

    Unlike traditional sports, which depend on TV deals and fixed broadcast schedules, esports live online. Events are streamed on platforms like Twitch and YouTube, letting fans tune in from anywhere in the world.

    Much of the global momentum comes from Asia. South Korea is often credited with legitimising esports through the Starcraft boom of the early 2000s.

    Today, China, Japan and other nations have government-backed esports strategies, dedicated arenas and thriving pro circuits.

    The International Olympic Committee (IOC)’s announcement of the 2027 Esports Games marks a significant step.

    While not part of the main Olympics, this event is a signal esports is valued for its skill, global reach and cultural impact.

    With Brisbane to host the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, this may be Australia’s moment to step up by building talent development pathways and investing in major infrastructure: purpose-built training centres, venues for live competition and streaming and systems to support players from grassroots to elite levels.

    What’s happening in Australia?

    Australia is home to a growing esports community, with thousands of young Australians competing in national and international tournaments.

    Esports have become a central part of youth culture, from local high school leagues to university tournaments.

    Australia has already shown it can host major international esports events. Over the past decade, we’ve hosted qualifiers for titles such as Counter-Strike, Dota 2 and League of Legends.

    Flagship events such as Intel Extreme Masters (IEM), one of the most prestigious esports tournaments globally, continue to highlight Australia’s potential: in 2019, IEM Sydney drew thousands of fans and international teams, filling stadiums and putting Australia on the global esports map.

    More recently, IEM Melbourne in April this year brought Counter-Strike 2 back to local fans.

    If the right infrastructure is developed here, Australia could become a regular destination for international esports tournaments.

    On the education front, universities such as Queensland University of Technology, Swinburne and Southern Cross are leading the way with esports degrees, scholarships and research centres.

    These programs don’t just train players, they prepare students for careers in broadcasting, game development, coaching and performance science.

    Despite limited national support, some states and councils are experimenting with community programs, while broadcasters such as ESL Australia continue to grow local events and coverage.

    Challenges and opportunities

    Australia’s esports industry boasts immense potential, but it still faces significant challenges.

    The biggest hurdle is a lack of national investment and infrastructure.

    Unlike traditional sports, esports have no central body coordinating funding, training or pathways from amateur to professional. While other countries are investing in esports stadiums and elite teams, Australia has largely left the sector to develop on its own.

    Another issue is cultural: esports still struggle for full acceptance from sporting bodies, schools and sections of government.

    Without a coordinated effort to integrate esports into national sporting strategy, Australia risks being left behind.

    Yet the opportunities are clear.

    The IOC’s 2027 Esports Games could be a turning point. Ahead of Brisbane 2032, Australia is uniquely positioned to lead a national commitment to esports infrastructure and player development.

    Brisbane’s organisers could also advocate for esports’ inclusion in the 2032 Olympics, which could position Australia as a leading contender in this emerging field.

    There’s also a chance to combine esports with Australia’s world-class research in sports science and mental health: Australia is leading the way in developing health-focused research and initiatives that address player wellbeing from grassroots to professional levels.

    With the right support, Australia could shift from spectator to serious player.

    Craig is employed as a Senior Lecturer at Queensland University of Technology (QUT). QUT is mentioned within the article in relation to their QUT Esports program.

    Dylan Poulus works for Movember as a Senior Research Fellow in esports and video games and at Southern Cross University as a Senior Lecturer in Psychology. Movember and Southern Cross University are mentioned in the articles in relation to their work in esports. Dylan has received grant funding from the Australian Institute of Sport to investigate esports high-performance.

    – ref. Ahead of the Brisbane Olympics, it’s time for Australia to get serious about esports – https://theconversation.com/ahead-of-the-brisbane-olympics-its-time-for-australia-to-get-serious-about-esports-256788

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • PM Modi congratulates Lee Jae-myung on election as South Korean President, vows to strengthen strategic ties

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday extended his congratulations to Lee Jae-myung on being elected as the President of the Republic of Korea (ROK), expressing his commitment to further strengthening the India-ROK Special Strategic Partnership.

    In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, “Congratulations to Mr Lee Jae-myung on being elected as the President of the Republic of Korea. Look forward to working together to further expand and strengthen the India-ROK Special Strategic Partnership.”

    Liberal opposition leader Lee Jae-myung secured a decisive victory in the presidential election held early Wednesday. His win marks the culmination of months of political instability in South Korea, following the dramatic but short-lived declaration of martial law by the now-ousted conservative leader Yoon Suk Yeol.

  • FIFA’s inaugural Club World Cup set to kick off in the US amid challenges

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    FIFA’s billion-dollar gamble to revolutionise club football begins a week on Sunday with plenty of cash up for grabs but questionable enthusiasm as 32 teams prepare to contest the expanded Club World Cup in 12 stadiums across the United States.

    The tournament – designed as a glittering curtain-raiserfor the 2026 World Cup – has had to contend with the prospect of empty seats along with controversial qualification rules and player welfare concerns after an exhausting European season.

    Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami face Egypt’s Al Ahly in the opening fixture on June 14 in Miami, with tickets still widely available, while FIFA’s website shows seats can still be bought for the July 13 final at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium.

    FIFA said it was normal policy not to reveal details of ticket sales ahead of a tournament but pointed to the fact that tickets have been sold to fans in more than 130 countries as evidence of the CWC’s broad appeal.

    Inter Miami controversially gained their slot by topping Major League Soccer’s regular season standings, despite then losing in the first round of the playoffs, in a decision critics say showed FIFA’s desperation to have the Argentina great at the showpiece.

    Inter Miami were thus included as the host nation representative – instead of MLS champions LA Galaxy – with Los Angeles FC and Seattle Sounders making it three U.S. teams after qualifying through their Concacaf performances.

    As well as the winners of each confederation’s premier club competition, teams qualified according to a ranking based on their performances over a four-year period.

    In another twist that went all the way to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, Club Leon, the 2023 CONCACAF Champions Cup winners, were eventually excluded from the tournament due to having shared ownership with another qualifier.

    RIGHTS DEAL

    Nailing down a last-gasp $1 billion TV rights deal with sports streaming platform DAZN six months before the tournament means a total of $2 billion in expected revenues.

    That led FIFA to announce a total prize pot of $1 billion, with the winning club to receive up to $125 million.

    FIFA said there is also an unprecedented solidarity investment programme with a target of an extra $250 million provided to club football across the world and that all revenues from the tournament will be distributed to club football.

    That prize pot might look mouth-watering for club owners but for many players it will feel like a step too far after a long season and the European arm of players’ union FIFPro and the European Leagues took legal action against FIFA over the issue.

    In response, FIFA said it has “dozens of testimonies from players and coaches positively discussing the tournament” and said it was unfair to blame the CWC for calendar congestion.

    “It is a competitive tournament that takes place once every four years with a maximum of seven matches only for the two teams who reach the final,” a FIFA spokesman said.

    FIFA has also given assurances that NFL stadiums hosting matches will meet their specifications, confirming all venues will feature natural grass and adhere to standard regulation dimensions following sub-par pitches at last season’s Copa America.

    TOP CONTENDERS

    Divided into eight groups of four teams, top contenders include Real Madrid, winners of six of the last 12 Champions League titles, plus German champions Bayern Munich and 2023 Premier League and Champions League winners Manchester City.

    European champions Paris St Germain are the in-form team heading into the tournament after their historic 5-0 thrashing of Inter Milan in the Champions League final on Saturday.

    But they must survive a tough Group B featuring South American and Brazilian champions Botafogo and 2024 CONCACAF winners Seattle Sounders plus Spanish giants Atletico Madrid.

    Whether you call it soccer or football, for FIFA the tournament represents a dress rehearsal and a referendum on America’s appetite for the sport and on the world governing body’s vision for its commercial future ahead of the 2026 World Cup being co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico and Canada.

    “It will usher in a new era for club football worldwide,” FIFA said in a statement. “It will be the greatest, most inclusive and merit-based global club competition in history, bringing together the most successful club sides from every continent to decide the true world champion at club level.”

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ13: Facilities of West Kowloon Station of Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is a question by Dr the Hon Chan Han-pan and a written reply by the Acting Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Mr Liu Chun-san, in the Legislative Council today (June 4):

    Question:

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Importance of training and access to AED’s highlighted

    Source:

    A CFA volunteer has had the chance to say thank you to fellow volunteers and paramedics that helped save his life.

    John Moyes, a volunteer with Yarragon CFA, suffered a cardiac arrest while responding to a grass and scrub fire on Tuesday 4 March 2025 in Yarragon.

    Shortly after arriving at the scene, John collapsed.

    Crews from Trafalgar were on scene battling the blaze and Commander Greg Fisher said he immediately snapped into action.

    “We had to fight the fire, but we also needed to help John,” he said.

    “Thankfully, our members are first aid trained, and we were able to quickly begin doing what we needed to do.”

    Immediately following contact with Triple Zero (000), Trafalgar members, Sally Neenan, Colin Proctor, and Danny Mynard, got to work on John, starting cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and attaching an automated external defibrillator (AED) from one of the trucks.

    “It was all a bit of a blur,” Danny said.

    “But my training kicked in and I just did what I had to do to help save John.”

    Sally said John collapsed behind her and having just refreshed her CPR just months before, she was able to rely on her knowledge to help save John.

    “It was daunting but it really drives home the importance of having your first aid and CPR training even if you’re just a member of the community, this could have happened anywhere,” she said.

    Colin said having an AED was a huge help to their CPR efforts.

    “We were really glad to have the defibrillator right there on the truck,” he said.

    The trio continued CPR, delivering three shocks with the AED prior to the arrival of Ambulance Victoria paramedics. At the time of handover, John remained pulseless and unconscious.

    Paramedics took over care, intubated John and placed him into an induced coma. He was transported in a critical condition to the Victorian Heart Hospital for specialist care.

    John said he was “forever indebted” to those that intervened early and saved his life.

    “They are the reason I am here,” John said.

    “Because they knew what to do, I have another chance.”

    Greg said the incident was a good reminder about the importance of early intervention, having AEDs on trucks, and completing first aid training with CFA.

    “We offer basic first aid and CPR training to all CFA members and this really showed us why this training is so important,” Greg said.

    “Our members do more than just fight fires; they are there to help their communities in so many different situations.

    “All CFA primary firefighting appliances are also fitted with AED’s which is an amazing resource.”

    Ambulance Victoria Gippsland Clinical Support Officer Dion Meade said John’s recovery was testament to the quick actions of those around him.

    “It’s fantastic to see John alive and doing so well, which is all because of his peers who immediately started the chain of survival by implementing Call, Push, Shock,” he said.

    “We know the significant impact of early intervention, with a patient’s chance of survival almost doubling when they receive CPR and a shock from an AED before paramedics arrive.

    “The Victorian Ambulance Cardiac Arrest Registry 2023-24 showed Victoria has Australia’s best cardiac survival rate and the third best in the world, which is because of people, like Sally, Colin and Danny, stepping in when they see someone in cardiac arrest.

    “Anyone can save a life by remembering to Call Triple Zero 000, give CPR by pushing hard and fast on the middle of the chest, and use an AED if available.”

    Additional resources:

    To find a list of registered AED’s in Victoria, visit registermyaed.ambulance.vic.gov.au.

    Call, Push, Shock resources are available in multiple languages on the Ambulance Victoria website: ambulance.vic.gov.au/translated-resources/

    Learn more in the 2023/24 Victorian Ambulance Cardiac Arrest Registry (VACAR) Annual Report.

    Submitted by CFA Media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Vale Bill Meredith

    Source: South Australia Police

    The City of Wanneroo shares our respects following the passing of a pioneering figure in our local business community, Bill Meredith, at the age of 91 years old.

    A founding member and former Vice President of the Wanneroo Business Association and a true local business legend, Bill played a key role in laying the foundation for the dynamic business landscape we see in our City today.

    Even if you did not know Bill personally, chances are you knew of him – his Landsdale-based business, Bill’s Machinery, is a local landmark, instantly recognisable thanks to the big red plane out the front.

    This symbol is also a testament to Bill’s entrepreneurial spirit and adaptability – qualities that contributed to his longevity and continued success as a businessman.

    Throughout his life, Bill achieved so much, including being named the City of Wanneroo Mayor’s Visionary Businessperson Award in 2008.

    His passion, mentorship and unwavering commitment to his community will leave a lasting legacy and be remembered for many years to come.

    We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and admired him.

    Mayor Linda Aitken JP 

    MIL OSI News –

  • South Korea’s new president Lee Jae-myung vows economic revival, judgment on martial law

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    South Korea’s new liberal President Lee Jae-myung began his term on Wednesday, vowing to raise the country from the turmoil of a martial law crisis and revive an economy reeling from slowing growth and the threat of global protectionism.

    Lee’s decisive victory in Tuesday’s snap election stands to usher in a sea change in Asia’s fourth-largest economy, after backlash against a botched attempt at military rule brought down Yoon Suk Yeol just three years into his troubled presidency.

    He faces what could be the most daunting set of challenges for a South Korean leader in nearly three decades, ranging from healing a country deeply scarred by the martial law attempt to tackling unpredictable protectionist moves by the United States, a major trading partner and a security ally.

    With 100% of the ballots counted, Lee won 49.42% of the nearly 35 million votes cast while conservative rival Kim Moon-soo took 41.15% in the polls that brought the highest turnout for a presidential election since 1997, according to National Election Commission data.

    The 61-year-old former human rights lawyer called Tuesday’s election “judgment day” against Yoon’s martial law and his People Power Party’s failure to stop the ill-fated move.

    “The first mission is to decisively overcome insurrection and to ensure there will never be another military coup with guns and swords turned against the people,” Lee said in a victory speech outside parliament.

    “We can overcome this temporary difficulty with the combined strength of our people, who have great capabilities,” he said.

    Lee was officially confirmed as president by the National Election Commission on Wednesday and immediately assumed the powers of the presidency and commander in chief.

    An abbreviated inauguration is planned at parliament at 11 a.m. (0200 GMT), an Interior Ministry official said.

    Lee has said he would address urgent economic challenges facing the country on the first day in office with a focus on the cost-of-living concerns affecting middle and low-income families and the struggles of small business owners.

    He also faces a deadline set by the White House on negotiating import duties that Washington has blamed for a large trade imbalance between the countries.

    ‘DEAL WITH TRUMP’

    The government under a caretaker acting president had made little progress in trying to assuage crushing tariffs announced by U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration that would hit some of the country’s major industries, including autos and steel.

    “President Lee will find himself with little to no time to spare before tackling the most important task of his early presidency: reaching a deal with Trump,” the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies said in an analysis.

    U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio congratulated Lee on his election win and said the countries “share an ironclad commitment to the Alliance grounded in our Mutual Defense Treaty, shared values, and deep economic ties.”

    He also said that the countries were “modernising the Alliance to meet the demands of today’s strategic environment and address new economic challenges.”

    The White House said the election of Lee was “free and fair” but the United States remained concerned and opposed to Chinese interference and influence in democracies around the world, according to a White House official.

    Lee has expressed more conciliatory plans for ties with China and North Korea, in particular singling out the importance of China as a major trading partner while indicating reluctance to take a firm stance on security tensions in the Taiwan strait.

    Still, Lee has pledged to continue Yoon’s engagement with Japan and said the alliance with the United States is the backbone of South Korea’s global diplomacy.

    The martial law decree and the six months of ensuing turmoil, which saw three different acting presidents and multiple criminal insurrection trials for Yoon and several top officials, marked a stunning political self-destruction for the former leader and a drag on an economy already slowing growth.

    (Reuters)

  • Musk calls Trump’s tax-cut and spending bill ‘a disgusting abomination’

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Billionaire Elon Musk plunged on Tuesday into the congressional debate over President Donald Trump’s sweeping tax and spending bill, calling it a “disgusting abomination” that will increase the federal deficit.

    Several fiscally conservative Republicans in the U.S. Senate supported the views Musk expressed in social media posts, which could complicate the bill’s path to passage in that chamber.

    “I’m sorry, but I just can’t stand it anymore,” Tesla and SpaceX CEO Musk wrote in a post on his social media platform X. “This massive, outrageous, pork-filled Congressional spending bill is a disgusting abomination.”

    He added: “Shame on those who voted for it: you know you did wrong. You know it.”

    Musk’s comments hit a nerve. Republican deficit hawks have expressed concerns about the cost of the bill, which would extend the 2017 tax cuts that were Trump’s main legislative accomplishment, while boosting spending on the military and border security.

    The House of Representatives passed it by one vote last month, after the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office said the measure would add $3.8 trillion to the federal government’s $36.2 trillion in debt.

    The Senate, also controlled by Trump’s Republicans, aims to pass the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” in the next month, though senators are expected to revise the House version.

    Republicans on the Senate Finance Committee, which oversees tax policy, are due to meet with Trump at the White House on Wednesday afternoon to discuss making the bill’s business-related tax breaks permanent, according to Senator Steve Daines, a panel member. Analysts have warned that such a move would greatly increase the measure’s cost.

    Republican Senate Majority Leader John Thune said he disagreed with Musk’s assessment about the cost of the bill and stood by the goal of passage by July 4.

    “We have a job to do – the American people elected us to do. We have an agenda that everybody campaigned on, most notably the president of the United States, and we’re going to deliver on that agenda,” the South Dakota lawmaker told reporters.

    Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson also dismissed Musk’s complaints, telling reporters, “my friend Elon is terribly wrong.”

    TEST OF INFLUENCE

    Musk’s loud opposition to a bill that Trump has urged Republicans to pass presents a test of his political influence a week after leaving his formal role in the administration as a special government employee with the Department of Government Efficiency came to an end. As DOGE chief, he upended several federal agencies but ultimately failed to deliver the massive savings he had sought.

    The richest person in the world, Musk had spent nearly $300 million to back Trump’s presidential campaign and other Republicans in last year’s elections. But he has said he would cut his political spending substantially while returning to his role as Tesla TSLA.O CEO.

    The White House dismissed Tuesday’s attack, just as Trump dismissed earlier Musk complaints about the legislation.

    “Look, the president already knows where Elon Musk stood on this bill,” spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said at a White House briefing. “It doesn’t change the president’s opinion. This is one big, beautiful bill, and he’s sticking to it.”

    REPUBLICAN DISAGREEMENTS

    Senate Republicans were divided about the bill even before Musk’s missives. Deficit hawks are pushing for deeper spending cuts than the $1.6 trillion over a decade in the House version, while another coalition of rural-state Republicans are pushing to protect the Medicaid healthcare program for low-income Americans.

    One of the hawks, Senator Mike Lee, called on party members to use the Trump bill and future spending measures to reduce the deficit.

    “We must commit now to doing so, as this is what voters justifiably expect – and indeed deserve – from the GOP Congress,” the Utah Republican said on X while reposting Musk’s message.

    Republicans have a 53-47 seat majority in the Senate and can afford to lose support from no more than three members, if they expect to pass the legislation with a tie-breaking vote from Vice President JD Vance by a July 4 deadline.

    Another hardliner, Senator Ron Johnson, predicted that lawmakers would not be able to meet the deadline and secure an adequate number of cuts.

    Lee and Johnson are among at least four Senate hardliners demanding that the bill be changed to restrict the growth of the debt and deficit.

    The faction of party lawmakers determined to limit spending cuts to project Medicaid beneficiaries and business investments in green energy initiatives is of similar size.

    “I certainly have an interest in making sure people with disabilities are not harmed. But also, there’s the broad issue of how does it affect hospital reimbursements,” Senator Jerry Moran told reporters.

    “There’s a set of my colleagues who are pushing to do more. And so it turns on how do you get the votes to pass a bill,” the Kansas Republican said.

    Other Senate Republicans said lawmakers may have to look elsewhere to boost savings, including the possibility of leaving Trump’s much touted tax break proposals for tips, overtime pay and Social Security benefits for later legislation.

    “Those are all Democrat priorities. I’m not sure why we shouldn’t be doing that in a potential bipartisan bill to create headspace for this bill,” said Republican Senator Thom Tillis.

    (Reuters)

  • ‘I’ll sleep like a baby’: Emotional Kohli fulfils 17-year dream with IPL triumph

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Virat Kohli’s carefully crafted image of a snarling warrior melted away as the 36-year-old was reduced to an emotional wreck after Royal Challengers Bengaluru ended their 17-season wait for a maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title on Tuesday.

    Bengaluru were effectively assured of victory in the final against Punjab Kings in Ahmedabad after Josh Hazlewood began the final over with two dot balls.

    As the broadcasters’ camera panned, it caught a teary-eyed Kohli covering his mouth with cupped hands in disbelief.

    As Bengaluru sealed a six-run victory, Kohli hunched over the turf and punched it in delight before being mobbed by teammates.

    “It’s been 18 long years,” an emotional Kohli, still with bloodshot eyes, told the broadcasters.

    “I’ve given this team my youth, my prime and my experience, and I’ve tried to win this every season…

    “To finally have this moment come true, it’s an unbelievable feeling. I never thought this day would come. I was overcome with emotions as soon as the last ball was bowled.”

    Kohli has been with Bengaluru since the inaugural edition of the league in 2008, including nine seasons as captain of a franchise that made the finals in 2009, 2011 and 2016 but lost on all three occasions.

    The relief was palpable as he hugged former Bengaluru teammate AB de Villiers.

    “I’ve stayed loyal to this team no matter what,” Kohli said.

    “I’ve had moments when I thought otherwise, but I stuck to this team. I stood behind them and they stood behind me.

    “I always dreamt of winning it with them, and this is far more special than winning it with anyone else…

    “This is the team I’m going to play for till the last day in IPL.”

    Kohli has won multiple World Cups with India but the IPL had remained an unticked box, until Tuesday.

    “I’m someone that wants to win the big tournaments, the big moments, and this one was missing. Tonight, I’m going to sleep like a baby,” he said.

    “There is an end date to our career. By the time that I hang up my boots, I want to sit at home and say ‘I gave it everything I had’.”

    (Reuters)

  • Alcaraz bludgeons Paul to reach French Open semis, Swiatek to face Sabalenka

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz steamrolled past American 12th-seed Tommy Paul 6-0 6-1 6-4 at the French Open on Tuesday with a jaw-dropping display of attacking tennis in one of the most one-sided men’s quarter-finals in Paris in recent memory.

    Four-time champion Iga Swiatek, who is looking to become the first woman in the professional era to win four consecutive titles in Paris, also punched her semi-final ticket with a straight sets win over Elina Svitolina of Ukraine to set up a mouth-watering semi-final with world number one Aryna Sabalenka.

    But it was four-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz’s merciless dismantling of Paul that grabbed the fans’ attention, with the 22-year-old Spaniard terrorising the former French Open junior champion who looked like a fish out of water.

    Alcaraz charged through the first two sets in just 53 minutes and in near flawless fashion, hitting winners at will and chasing down every ball before the shell-shocked American had any time to react.

    Paul pulled himself together to hold serve and go 4-3 up in the third but as the sun gradually went down over Paris so did the curtain on his inspired run, with Alcaraz winning three games in a row to put him out of his misery in just 94 minutes.

    “I could close my eyes and everything went in,” Alcaraz said. “My feeling was unbelievable. I tried to hit the shots 100% and not think about it.”

    “Today it was one of those matches where everything went in,” he said.

    He will next take on in-form Italian Lorenzo Musetti who battled past American Frances Tiafoe in four sets after surviving a second-set wobble, to reach the French Open semi-finals for the first time.

    MUSETTI WARNING

    Musetti, the world number seven, who escaped with a warning for unsportsmanlike conduct when he kicked a ball at a line judge, eventually overran 15th seed Tiafoe.

    “Honestly it was really unlucky coincidence,” said Musetti of the incident.

    “I was a little bit scared, because I really didn’t want to harm nobody, of course. So I immediately went to the line umpire, and I of course said, ‘sorry’, I apologise to everyone.”

    “It was right to have a warning, but I think the umpire saw that there was no intention about that, and that’s why probably just, you know, let me continue my game.”

    That occurred in the second set when Musetti, the only man to reach at least the semi-finals of every main claycourt event this season, was given balls to serve.

    He kicked one to inadvertently hit the line judge, who barely flinched even though she was hit on her upper body.

    Grand Slam rules state that players are issued a warning at first instance for any ball abuse. Tiafoe, however, called it ‘comical’ that there was no serious punishment.

    “I mean, obviously he did that and nothing happened,” said Tiafoe, who had looked surprised and pointed out the incident to the chair umpire.

    “I think that’s comical, but it is what it is. Nothing happened, so there’s nothing really to talk about. Obviously it’s not consistent, so it is what it is.”

    Earlier, and in front of a sparse crowd around lunchtime, Swiatek braved the windy conditions to beat Svitolina 6-1 7-5.

    Although Swiatek failed to win a title going into the tournament this season, she looks to have rediscovered her remarkable claycourt form in Paris, stretching her winning run at the French Open to 26 consecutive matches following her title three-peat between 2022-24 to add to her 2020 crown.

    Three-time Grand Slam champion Sabalenka, hunting her first French Open crown, also needed just two sets to overcome Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen and snap her opponent’s 10-match winning streak at Roland Garros with a 7-6(3) 6-3 victory.

    “I think we’re all here for one reason,” Sabalenka said. “Everyone wants that beautiful trophy. I’m glad I have another opportunity, another semi-final to do better than last time.”

    “I really hope that by the end of the claycourt season I’m really proud of myself.”

    (Reuters)

     

  • RCB win maiden IPL title to shed underachievers tag

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Royal Challengers Bengaluru and their talisman Virat Kohli ended a 17-season drought by winning their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title, beating Punjab Kings by six runs in the final in Ahmedabad on Tuesday.

    Bengaluru posted a modest 190-9 with Kohli, their leading scorer this season, top scoring for them with a composed 43.

    It was, however, their lion-hearted bowling which secured their win after they restricted Punjab to 184-7 despite Shashank Singh’s unbeaten 61 off 30 balls.

    Kohli was in tears once he realised Bengaluru were about to shed the underachievers tag that has stuck to them since the inaugural 2008 edition of the league.

    “I think it is really special for me and special for Virat Kohli and all the fans who have supported for years. They deserve it,” Bengaluru captain Rajat Patidar said.

    “I think 190 was a good score on this track because it was a bit slow. The way the bowlers executed their plans was tremendous to watch.”

    Put in to bat at a heaving Narendra Modi Stadium, Bengaluru could not stitch together significant partnerships and fell short of the 200-mark.

    Kohli anchored their innings but Bengaluru could never really break loose.

    Bengaluru were 87-2 at the midway stage but with enough overs left for other players to bat around Kohli.

    Azmatullah Omarzai deceived Kohli with a bouncer and took a running, tumbling return catch to dismiss the batter.

    Jitesh Sharma’s 24 off 10 balls injected some momentum into Bengaluru’s stop-start innings and Liam Livingstone made 25 but the side could not really capitalise in the death overs.

    Punjab’s Kyle Jamieson claimed 3-48, while his new ball partner Arshdeep Singh bowled an excellent three-wicket final over, conceding only three runs.

    Punjab got off to a rollicking start in their chase and opener Prabhsimran Singh, then on nine, was lucky to be spilled in the deep by Romario Shepherd.

    Josh Hazlewood, the luckless Bengaluru bowler, did not have to wait long for success though, as Phil Salt took a stunning catch in the deep to remove Priyansh Arya (24) and break the 43-run opening stand.

    Krunal Pandya removed Prabhsimran and Shepherd redeemed himself by dismissing Punjab’s in-form captain Shreyas Iyer to turn the match on its head.

    Player-of-the-match Pandya put Bengaluru on top when he dismissed the dangerous Josh Inglis (39) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar effectively sealed the match in Bengaluru’s favour when he dismissed Nehal Wadhera and Marcus Stoinis in the same over.

    “I am very proud of each and every individual in this team,” Punjab captain Iyer said.

    “There are a lot of youngsters who are playing their first season, they’ve shown a lot of fearlessness.

    “We have to be here and win the trophy next year.”

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name release, fatal crash, Timaru

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police can now release the name of the man who died following a crash on State Highway One, Timaru on 21 May.

    He was James Campbell McKenzie, 69, from Timaru.

    Police extend our condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Appeal following Queenstown assault

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Queenstown Police would like to speak to the victim of a seemingly unprovoked assault in late May.

    The assault happened about 2.40am on Sunday 25 May 2025, at a taxi rank near Searle Lane and Camp Street.

    At the time, the victim was looking down at his phone and walking in the direction of the Cookie Time shop when he was punched by one of three men who had left a bar in Searle Lane.

    After the incident, a member of the public briefly spoke to the victim, handing back his beanie, which fell off during the assault.

    Detective Lisa Watt says Police discovered the incident while investigating an assault moments before, in a Searle Lane bar.

    “The alleged offender for the first incident has been arrested, but we would like to speak with the victim of the assault that happened on the footpath near the Cookie Time shop, the passerby, or any other witnesses.

    “The victim is described to have a black beard, and was wearing a black puffer jacket, blue jeans, white shoes, and black beanie. If that was you, please contact us so we can understand what happened and hold the person responsible to account.”

    If you have information that may assist, please contact Police online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report”, or call 105. 

    Please use the reference number: 250527/7943

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ16: Reduction in leasing of private premises for government office accommodation

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ16: Reduction in leasing of private premises for government office accommodation 
    Question:
     
         It is learnt that with the successive completion of various new government buildings, the Government Property Agency has indicated that it will reduce the leasing of private premises for office accommodation in order to save public money. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the number of private premises currently leased by various bureaux and government departments for office accommodation, and the rental ranges of these premises, together with a breakdown by the 18 districts across the territory;
     
    (2) whether the authorities have formulated plans to relocate from the private premises mentioned in (1); if so, of the details (including the relocation dates and the addresses of the new offices); if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (3) given that the 2017 Policy Address proposed the redevelopment of the three government buildings on the Wan Chai waterfront, and that according to the Public Accounts Committee Report No. 69, the authorities are required to construct nine replacement buildings for 28 bureaux and departments, as well as the Judiciary, of the specific progress to date of the relocation plan (including how many government departments have yet to move out), and the expected timeframe for completing the entire relocation plan?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         Having consulted the Government Property Agency (GPA), our reply to the question raised by the Hon Kenneth Lau is as follows:
     
    (1) and (2) The Government’s policy is to accommodate offices in government-owned premises as far as possible. Leasing private premises for use by departments will only be considered if government-owned premises are unable to meet their locational requirements or operational needs. GPA conducts an accommodation review annually. To reduce rental expenses, GPA will relocate leased offices to government-owned premises, as well as relocate leased offices with higher rent to private premises with lower rent, having regard to the departments’ operational needs and cost-effectiveness.
     
         Information on private premises leased by government bureaux and departments (B/Ds) for use as government offices is set out at Annex. In 2025-26, the Government plans to relocate 26 leased offices to government-owned premises or private premises with lower rent, and is expected to save approximately $130 million annually in rental expenses (including management fees and air-conditioning charges). To avoid affecting negotiations with private property owners, we are unable to provide details of the relocation plans.
     
         GPA will continue to review rental levels and explore ways to control rental expenses with B/Ds, including relocating offices to suitable government-owned premises or private premises with lower rent as far as possible.
     
    (3) The Government plans to relocate the three government buildings at the Wan Chai waterfront and construct nine buildings in other areas to relocate those existing government offices. The latest progress is as follows:
     
    (a) The West Kowloon Government Offices in Yau Ma Tei, the Government Data Centre Complex and the Treasury Building in Cheung Sha Wan, the Inland Revenue Centre in Kai Tak, and the Immigration Headquarters in Tseung Kwan O have been completed and are in operation;
     
    (b) The Tseung Kwan O Government Offices will soon be completed and are expected to commence operation progressively from the second half of this year; and
     
    (c) As for the remaining three reprovisioning projects, namely the Drainage Services Tower in Cheung Sha Wan, the Water Supplies Department Building and Correctional Services Headquarters Building in Chai Wan, and the District Court Building in Causeway Bay respectively, the Government aims to complete the relevant construction works by 2026.
    Issued at HKT 11:05

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai welcomes President Hilda C. Heine of Republic of the Marshall Islands with military honors  

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2025-05-29
    President Lai attends 2025 Europe Day Dinner
    On the evening of May 29, President Lai Ching-te attended the 2025 Europe Day Dinner. In remarks, President Lai stated that Taiwan looks forward to further establishing institutionalized mechanisms with Europe for our trade and investment ties and hopes to take an innovative and diverse approach to sign an economic partnership agreement with the European Union, to provide a more transparent, stable, and predictable business environment for our enterprises. The president said that Taiwan will actively work alongside other democracies, including those in Europe, to jointly build resilient, promising non-red supply chains, and noted that Taiwan and Europe have endless potential for collaboration, whether it is in safeguarding freedom and democracy or advancing our economic and trade relationship. He expressed hope to further strengthen our partnership and work together toward global peace, stability, and prosperity. A transcript of President Lai’s remarks follows: Chairman [Henry] Chang (張瀚書), thank you for the invitation, and congratulations on your second term. I’m confident that under your leadership, the ECCT [European Chamber of Commerce Taiwan] will build even more bridges for cooperation between Taiwan and Europe. I would also like to thank EETO [European Economic and Trade Office] Head [Lutz] Güllner and all the European country representatives stationed in Taiwan. Your hard work over the years has helped deepen Taiwan-Europe relations and brought about such fruitful cooperation. Thank you. This year we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration. In 1950, then-French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman proposed to create a European federation dedicated to preserving peace. The declaration symbolized a new flowering in the post-war era of democracy, unity, and cooperation. As we face the geopolitical challenges and drastic economic changes of today’s world, the Schuman Declaration still speaks to us profoundly. This year is also the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe. Moving forward, Taiwan will continue to advance cooperation with our democratic partners, and will join hands with Europe to build a partnership of even greater resilience and mutual trust. Europe is Taiwan’s third largest trading partner. It is also Taiwan’s largest source of foreign direct investment. Last year, bilateral trade between Taiwan and Europe totaled US$84.7 billion. This demonstrates our vibrant economic and trade ties and reflects the high levels of confidence our businesses have in each other’s markets and systems. We look forward to Taiwan and Europe further establishing institutionalized mechanisms for our trade and investment ties. And we hope to take an innovative and diverse approach to sign an economic partnership agreement with the EU, to provide a more transparent, stable, and predictable business environment for our enterprises. Today’s Taiwan has an internationally recognized democracy and a semiconductor industry vital to global security and prosperity. This enables us to play a key role in restructuring global democratic supply chains and the economic order. In particular, we see supply chains dominated by a new authoritarian bloc expanding their influence through non-market mechanisms, price subsidies, and monopolies on resources, as they seek global control of critical technologies and manufacturing capabilities. Their actions not only distort principles of market fairness, but also threaten the international community’s basic expectations for democracy, the rule of law, and corporate responsibility. In response, Taiwan will actively work alongside other democracies, including those in Europe, to jointly build resilient, promising non-red supply chains. We will also introduce an initiative on semiconductor supply chain partnerships for global democracies. This is more than a proposal for economic cooperation; it is an alliance of shared values and advanced technology. Security in the Taiwan Strait and regional peace and stability have always been issues of mutual interest for Taiwan and Europe. So here today, on behalf of all the people of Taiwan, I would like to thank the EU and European nations for continuing to take concrete actions in public support of peace and stability across the strait. Such actions are vital to regional security and prosperity. Taiwan will continue to bolster itself to achieve real peace through strength, and will work with democratic partners to safeguard freedom and democracy, thereby showing our determination for regional peace. At this critical time, Taiwan and Europe have endless potential for collaboration, whether it’s in safeguarding freedom and democracy or advancing our economic and trade relationship. I look forward to our joining hands at this strategic juncture to further strengthen our partnership and work together toward global peace, stability, and prosperity. Also in attendance at the event was British Office Taipei Representative Ruth Bradley-Jones.

    Details
    2025-05-28
    President Lai meets US delegation led by Senator Tammy Duckworth
    On the afternoon of May 28, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by United States Senator Tammy Duckworth. In remarks, President Lai thanked the US Congress and government for their longstanding and bipartisan support for Taiwan. The president stated that Taiwan will continue to strengthen cooperation with the US and jointly safeguard regional peace and stability. He pointed out that the Taiwan government has already proposed a roadmap for deepening Taiwan-US trade ties and will encourage mutual investment between Taiwanese and US businesses. He then expressed hope of deepening Taiwan-US ties and creating more niches for both sides. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I warmly welcome this delegation led by Senator Duckworth, a dear friend of Taiwan. Senator Duckworth previously visited in May last year to convey congratulations after the inauguration of myself and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao. Your bipartisan delegation was the first group from the US Senate that I met with as president. Today, you are visiting just after the first anniversary of my taking office, demonstrating the staunch support of the US and our deep friendship. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend my sincere appreciation and greetings. And I invite you to come back and visit next year, the year after that, and every year. Taiwan and the US share the values of democracy and the rule of law and believe in free and open markets. Both sides embrace a common goal of peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. I thank the US Congress and government for their longstanding, bipartisan, and steadfast support for Taiwan. In 2021, to help Taiwan overcome the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Senator Duckworth made a special trip here to announce that the US government would be donating vaccines to Taiwan. In recent years, Senator Duckworth has also promoted the TAIWAN Security Act, STAND with Taiwan Act, and Taiwan and America Space Assistance Act in the US Congress, all of which have further deepened Taiwan-US cooperation and steadily advanced our ties. For this, I express my deepest appreciation. I want to emphasize that the people of Taiwan have an unyielding determination to protect their homeland and free and democratic way of life. Over the past year, the government and private sector have been working together to enhance Taiwan’s whole-of-society defense resilience. The government is committed to reforming national defense, and it has proposed prioritizing special budget allocations to ensure that our defense budget exceeds three percent of GDP. This will continue to bolster Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities. Moving forward, Taiwan will continue to strengthen cooperation with the US. In addition to jointly safeguarding regional peace and stability, we also aspire to deepen bilateral trade and economic ties. At the SelectUSA Investment Summit in Washington, DC, earlier this month, Taiwan’s delegation was once again the biggest delegation attending the event – proof positive of our close economic and trade cooperation. We have already proposed a roadmap for deepening Taiwan-US trade ties. We will narrow the trade imbalance through the procurement of energy and agricultural and other industrial products from the US. We will encourage mutual investment between Taiwanese and US businesses to stimulate industrial development on both sides, especially in such industries as national defense and shipbuilding. We therefore look forward to Congress passing the US-Taiwan Expedited Double-Tax Relief Act as soon as possible, as this would deepen Taiwan-US trade ties and create more niches for business. In closing, I once again thank Senator Duckworth for making the trip to Taiwan. Let us continue to work together to elevate Taiwan-US ties. I wish you a pleasant and successful visit. Senator Duckworth then delivered remarks, saying that she is happy to be back in Taiwan and that she wanted to make sure to come back just after President Lai’s one-year anniversary of taking office to show the dedication and the outstanding friendship that we have. She noted that because no matter who is in the White House, no matter which political party is in power in Washington, DC, she has always believed that if America wants to remain a leader on the global stage, it has to show up for friends like Taiwan.  Senator Duckworth mentioned that in the years that she has been coming to Taiwan since pre-COVID times, she has seen a remarkable increase in participation in its defense and the support of the Taiwanese people for defending the homeland. She then thanked Taiwan for making the commitment to its self-defense, and also for being a partner with other nations around the world.  The STAND with Taiwan Act, the senator noted, is so named because the US wants to stand side by side with Taiwan. Pointing out that Taiwan is an important leader in the Indo-Pacific and on the global stage, she reiterated that there is support on both sides of the aisle in Washington for Taiwanese democracy, and added that the people of Taiwan are showing that they are willing to shore up their own readiness. Senator Duckworth said that whether it is delivering vaccines to Taiwan or making sure that the US National Guard works with Taiwan’s reserve forces or even with its civilian emergency response teams, these are all important components to the ongoing partnership between our nations.  Senator Duckworth indicated that there are many great opportunities moving forward beyond our military cooperation with one another. Whether it is in chip manufacturing, agricultural investments, shipbuilding, or in the healthcare field, those investments in both nations will facilitate stability and development in both our nations. She said that is why she wants to continue the Taiwan-US relationship, underlining that they are in it for the long haul. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by American Institute in Taiwan Taipei Office Director Raymond Greene.

    Details
    2025-05-27
    President Lai meets delegation led by US House Natural Resources Committee Chair Bruce Westerman
    On the afternoon of May 27, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Chair of the Natural Resources Committee of the United States House of Representatives Bruce Westerman. In remarks, President Lai stated that Taiwan and the US enjoy close industrial exchanges and continue to explore new opportunities for investment and collaboration. The president said that Taiwan will continue to increase purchases from and together build non-red supply chains with the US, expressing hope that economic and trade relations grow even closer and that both work together to jointly safeguard peace and stability throughout the region. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I am delighted to meet and exchange views with members of the US House Committee on Natural Resources today. Chair Westerman, the leader of this delegation, is an old friend of Taiwan. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend a very warm welcome to the delegation. I also want to thank you all for your long-term close attention to Taiwan-related affairs and your strong support for Taiwan. Taiwan and the US enjoy close ties and share ideals and values. There is an excellent foundation for cooperation between us, particularly in such areas as energy, the economy and trade, agriculture and fisheries, environmental protection, and sustainable development. In recent years, Taiwan-US ties have grown closer and closer. The US has become Taiwan’s largest destination for overseas investment, accounting for over 40 percent of Taiwan’s outbound investment. Taiwan is also the seventh largest trading partner of the US and its seventh largest export market for agricultural products. The SelectUSA Investment Summit held in Washington, DC earlier this month was the largest in its history. Taiwan’s delegation, representing 138 enterprises, was once again the biggest delegation attending the event. This shows that Taiwan and the US enjoy close industrial exchanges and continue to explore new opportunities for investment and collaboration. Looking ahead, with the global landscape changing rapidly, Taiwan will continue to increase purchases from the US, including energy resources such as natural gas and petroleum, as well as agricultural products, industrial products, and even military procurement. This will not only help balance our bilateral trade, but also strengthen development for Taiwan in energy autonomy, resilience, the economy, and trade. Taiwan and the US are also well-matched in such areas as high tech and manufacturing. As the US pursues reindustrialization and aims to become a global hub for AI, Taiwan is willing to take part and play an even more important role. We will strengthen Taiwan-US industrial cooperation and together build non-red supply chains. In addition to bringing our economic and trade relations even closer, this will also allow Taiwanese industries to remain rooted in Taiwan while expanding their global presence, helping bolster the US, and marketing worldwide. As for military exchanges, we are grateful to the US government for continuing its military sales to Taiwan and backing our efforts to upgrade our self-defense capabilities. Taiwan will continue to work with the US to jointly safeguard peace and stability throughout the region. In closing, I thank our guests once again for making the long journey here, not only offering warm friendship, but also demonstrating the staunch bipartisan support for Taiwan in the US Congress. Chair Westerman then delivered remarks, saying that it is an honor for him and his colleagues to be in Taiwan to talk about the strong relationship between the US and Taiwan and how that relationship can continue to grow in the future. The chair pointed out that natural resources are foundational to any kind of economic development, whether it is energy, which is key to manufacturing, or whether it is mining, which provides rare earth elements and all the minerals and metals needed for manufacturing. He said that as for natural resources including fish, wildlife, or timber, all are foundational to any society, but this is especially so for agriculture, noting that the US produces a lot of food and fodder and is always looking for more friends to share that with. Chair Westerman indicated that they are excited about opportunities to work with Taiwan, adding that Taiwan’s investments in the US have been greatly appreciated. He said they also are excited about the talks with the Trump administration and the future going forward on how we can have a stronger trade relationship, a stronger bilateral relationship, and how we can work with each other to help both economies grow and prosper. Chair Westerman concluded his remarks by expressing thanks for the opportunity to visit, saying that they treasure Taiwan’s friendship and our long-term relationship, and are very excited to be able to discuss in more detail how our two countries can work together. The delegation also included US House Natural Resources Committee Representatives Sarah Elfreth, Harriet Hageman, Celeste Maloy, and Nick Begich. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by American Institute in Taiwan Taipei Office Director Raymond Greene.  

    Details
    2025-05-27
    President Lai meets and hosts luncheon for delegation led by Governor Lourdes A. Leon Guerrero of Guam
    On the morning of May 27, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Governor Lourdes A. Leon Guerrero of Guam and her husband, and hosted a luncheon for the delegation at noon. In remarks, President Lai noted that this is the governor’s first trip to Taiwan, fully demonstrating the Guam government’s support and high regard for Taiwan. The president said that Guam, being the closest United States territory to Taiwan, is an important bridge for collaboration between Taiwan and the US. He stated that aside from promoting tourism, we can also explore even more opportunities for collaboration in other areas to further advance industrial development for both sides. He said that, as we begin a new chapter, we look forward to working together to generate even more momentum in bilateral cooperation and exchanges. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend a warm welcome to Governor Leon Guerrero and her delegation. Last year, I transited through Guam en route for visits to Taiwan’s diplomatic allies in the Pacific. The enthusiastic reception I received from the government, legislature, people, and members of our overseas community in Guam was very touching and left me with a deep impression. During the morning tea reception hosted by Governor Leon Guerrero, we joined in singing our respective national anthems, as well as the Fanohge CHamoru. I also received at the Guam Legislature a copy of a Taiwan-friendly resolution it passed on behalf of the people of Taiwan. And I still remember to this day the striking scenery of the governor’s house and the warm reception I received there. It is therefore a great pleasure to meet with all of you today here at the Presidential Office. This is Governor Leon Guerrero’s first trip to Taiwan. Your visit fully demonstrates the Guam government’s support and high regard for Taiwan. As we begin a new chapter, we look forward to working with you to generate even more momentum in bilateral cooperation and exchanges. Taiwan and Guam are like family. We share the Austronesian spirit and culture. Our wide-ranging and mutually-beneficial collaboration is very fruitful. And now, we are facing the challenges of climate change, public health and medicine, and regional security together. The world is rapidly changing and tensions in the Indo-Pacific continue to rise. But if we combine our strengths, come together as one, and enhance cooperation, we can maintain regional peace, stability, and prosperity. Last Tuesday, I delivered an address on my first anniversary of taking office. I mentioned that for many years, Taiwan, the US, and our democratic partners have actively engaged in exchange and cooperation. Taking a market-oriented approach, we will promote an economic path of staying firmly rooted in Taiwan and expanding the global presence of our enterprises while strengthening ties with the US. Guam is the closest US territory to Taiwan. It is an important bridge for collaboration between Taiwan and the US. Last month, we were pleased to see United Airlines officially launch direct flights between Taipei and Guam. I believe this will benefit tourism and economic and trade exchanges for both sides. In the area of health care, many hospitals in Taiwan already offer referral services to patients from Guam. Both Governor Leon Guerrero and I have backgrounds in medicine. It is my hope that Taiwan and Guam can continue to work hand in hand to create even more positive outcomes from cooperation in public health and medical services. During the governor’s visit, aside from promoting tourism, we can also explore even more opportunities for collaboration in other areas. There is potential for more exchanges in aquaculture, food processing, hydroculture, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and recycling. This will further advance industrial development in Taiwan and Guam. In closing, I thank Governor Leon Guerrero and all our distinguished guests for backing Taiwan. I wish you all a smooth and successful visit.  Governor Leon Guerrero then delivered remarks, saying that she is very happy to come to Taiwan. She said that after learning during President Lai’s visit to Guam last year that he is a medical doctor, she felt more relaxed because healthcare colleagues are one in their endeavor to help enhance the health and well-being of people. She then expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the invitation to Taiwan.  Governor Leon Guerrero said that as they learn more about opportunities for collaboration with Taiwan, they are humbled by the hospitality they have experienced. In both of our islands, she said, hospitality is more than just a custom – it forms a part of our identities. She noted that despite being nearly 2,000 miles apart, we are connected by the Pacific Ocean and common roots, and our ancestors both value family, community, and tradition. That is why being here today, she said, she feels a strong sense of familiarity, like reconnecting with old friends. The governor remarked that Taiwan has evolved so quickly in all areas of essential life, sustenance, economy, and prosperity, adding that Taiwan’s resources in such areas as health, education, data, AI, advanced technology, aquaculture, agriculture, and commerce enhance our economic stability. She stated her belief that in collaboration and support, and working with each other, we can gain prosperity, maintain freedom and democracy, and live in peace.  Governor Leon Guerrero stated that their delegation is here to see how they can partner with Taiwan to help raise the quality of life for both our peoples, mentioning that one special concern of theirs is tourism. Tourism, she said, is the most influential engine and driver for the economy and quality of life in Guam, but they cannot have a vibrant economy and tourism without air connectivity. She added that they are prepared to help in any way to provide incentives and low-cost fees so that they can get more airlines from Taiwan to establish permanent flight schedules to Guam, so as to drive development in Guam’s tourism industry. Governor Leon Guerrero then proceeded to introduce each of the members of her delegation before remarking that while they have been very busy on this visit they are always reminded of the freedom and democracy that the people must protect. She said she looks forward to a great, strong relationship between Taiwan and Guam in cooperation on social and economic issues, in culture, marketing, tourism, and freedom and democracy. Among those in attendance were First Gentleman Jeffrey A. Cook, Chief of Staff Jon Junior Calvo, Director of the Department of Administration Edward Birn, General Manager of the Guam Visitors Bureau Regine Biscoe Lee, Deputy Executive Manager of the Guam International Airport Authority Artemio “Ricky” Hernandez, Board of Directors Chairman of the Guam International Airport Authority Brian J. Bamba, Deputy General Manager of the Guam Economic Development Authority Carlos Bordallo, Director of Landscape Management Systems Guam Bob Salas, Chairperson of the Guam Chamber of Commerce Tae Oh, President of the University of Guam Anita Borja Enriquez, and Director of the Guam Taiwan Office Felix Yen (嚴樹芬). After the meeting, President Lai, accompanied by Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao, hosted a luncheon for Governor Leon Guerrero, her husband, and the delegation.

    Details
    2025-05-27
    President Lai meets delegation from European Parliament
    On the morning of May 27, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from the European Parliament. In remarks, President Lai thanked the European Parliament for continuing to pay close attention to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and voice support for Taiwan. The president expressed hope for an even closer relationship and diversified cooperation between Taiwan and the European Union. The president said that Taiwan and the EU can work together in such areas as semiconductors, AI, and green energy to create more resilient supply chains for global democracies and contribute to global prosperity and development. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I warmly welcome our guests to the Presidential Office. After being elected last year, MEPs Reinis Pozņaks and Beatrice Timgren are making their first visits to Taiwan, demonstrating support for Taiwan through concrete action. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend my sincerest welcome and appreciation. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the European Parliament for continuing to pay close attention to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. Just last month, the European Parliament adopted resolutions with regard to annual reports on the implementation of the European Union’s Common Foreign and Security Policy and Common Security and Defence Policy. These resolutions reaffirmed the EU’s steadfast commitment to maintaining the status quo across the Taiwan Strait. The European Parliament also condemned China for continuing to take provocative military actions against Taiwan and emphasized that Taiwan is a key democratic partner in the Indo-Pacific region. It called on the EU and its member states to continue working closely with Taiwan to strengthen economic, trade, and investment ties. Once again, I thank the European Parliament for voicing support for Taiwan. Just as MEPs Pozņaks and Timgren are visiting Taiwan to strengthen Taiwan-EU exchanges, our Minister of Economic Affairs Kuo Jyh-huei (郭智輝) also led a delegation to Europe last year, marking the first in-person dialogue between high-ranking economic and trade officials of Taiwan and the EU. Moving ahead, we look forward to bringing Taiwan-EU ties even closer and to diversifying our cooperation. The EU is Taiwan’s largest source of foreign investment. Both sides are highly complementary in such areas as semiconductors, AI, and green energy. Through our joint efforts, we can create more resilient supply chains for global democracies and further contribute to global prosperity and development. Looking ahead, I hope that MEPs Pozņaks and Timgren will continue to make the case in the European Parliament for the signing of a Taiwan-EU economic partnership agreement. This would not only yield mutually beneficial development, but also consolidate economic security and boost international competitiveness for both sides. In closing, I am sure that you will gain a deeper understanding of Taiwan through this visit. Please feel welcome to come back as often as possible as we continue to elevate Taiwan-EU ties.  MEP Pozņaks then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great honor to be here and thanking everybody involved in arranging this trip that allows them the opportunity to better know Taiwan. He added that it is definitely not the last time they will be here, as Taiwan is a very beautiful country. MEP Pozņaks mentioned that he comes from Latvia, and despite their being on the other side of the world, they know how the Taiwanese people feel, because they also have a big neighbor who is claiming that Latvia belongs to them. Unfortunately, he said, there is already war in Europe, but he is confident that their situation is similar to Taiwan’s, adding that they have a neighbor who uses disinformation attacks. MEP Pozņaks said that we live in very challenging times, and that our choices will define the future of the world, asking whether it will be a world where the rule of law prevails or where physical power and aggression succeeds. Coming from a small country, he said he clearly understands that for them there is no other possibility; they must protect the world where the rule of law prevails. That is why now, he emphasized, it is very crucial for all democracies around the world to stick together to protect our freedoms, values, and democracy. MEP Timgren then delivered remarks, thanking President Lai for meeting with them and saying it is a big honor. Noting that they arrived here two days ago and that while she really loves Taiwan, its food, and the good weather, she stated that the reason they are here is because of the values that we share, our good relationships, and solidarity with other democratic countries in the world, which is important for them in Europe and in Sweden. MEP Timgren, referring to MEP Pozņaks’s earlier remarks, said that they face a big threat from Russia that is discernible even in the European Parliament. Actually, she pointed out, there is a war inside Europe that shows us how important it is that we support one another. She said that the Russian people thought it would be easy to take over Ukraine, but it was not, because all European countries stepped up and provided weapons and support. And that is why, MEP Timgren said, it is important that democratic countries maintain good relationships and let China and Russia see that we have good relationships, because a part of defense is solidarity. In closing, she expressed her gratitude for having the honor to be here in this beautiful country.

    Details
    2025-05-20
    President Lai interviewed by Nippon Television and Yomiuri TV
    In a recent interview on Nippon Television’s news zero program, President Lai Ching-te responded to questions from host Mr. Sakurai Sho and Yomiuri TV Shanghai Bureau Chief Watanabe Masayo on topics including reflections on his first year in office, cross-strait relations, China’s military threats, Taiwan-United States relations, and Taiwan-Japan relations. The interview was broadcast on the evening of May 19. During the interview, President Lai stated that China intends to change the world’s rules-based international order, and that if Taiwan were invaded, global supply chains would be disrupted. Therefore, he said, Taiwan will strengthen its national defense, prevent war by preparing for war, and achieve the goal of peace. The president also noted that Taiwan’s purpose for developing drones is based on national security and industrial needs, and that Taiwan hopes to collaborate with Japan. He then reiterated that China’s threats are an international problem, and expressed hope to work together with the US, Japan, and others in the global democratic community to prevent China from starting a war. Following is the text of the questions and the president’s responses: Q: How do you feel as you are about to round out your first year in office? President Lai: When I was young, I was determined to practice medicine and save lives. When I left medicine to go into politics, I was determined to transform Taiwan. And when I was sworn in as president on May 20 last year, I was determined to strengthen the nation. Time flies, and it has already been a year. Although the process has been very challenging, I am deeply honored to be a part of it. I am also profoundly grateful to our citizens for allowing me the opportunity to give back to our country. The future will certainly be full of more challenges, but I will do everything I can to unite the people and continue strengthening the nation. That is how I am feeling now. Q: We are now coming up on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, and over this period, we have often heard that conflict between Taiwan and the mainland is imminent. Do you personally believe that a cross-strait conflict could happen? President Lai: The international community is very much aware that China intends to replace the US and change the world’s rules-based international order, and annexing Taiwan is just the first step. So, as China’s military power grows stronger, some members of the international community are naturally on edge about whether a cross-strait conflict will break out. The international community must certainly do everything in its power to avoid a conflict in the Taiwan Strait; there is too great a cost. Besides causing direct disasters to both Taiwan and China, the impact on the global economy would be even greater, with estimated losses of US$10 trillion from war alone – that is roughly 10 percent of the global GDP. Additionally, 20 percent of global shipping passes through the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters, so if a conflict breaks out in the strait, other countries including Japan and Korea would suffer a grave impact. For Japan and Korea, a quarter of external transit passes through the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters, and a third of the various energy resources and minerals shipped back from other countries pass through said areas. If Taiwan were invaded, global supply chains would be disrupted, and therefore conflict in the Taiwan Strait must be avoided. Such a conflict is indeed avoidable. I am very thankful to Prime Minister of Japan Ishiba Shigeru and former Prime Ministers Abe Shinzo, Suga Yoshihide, and Kishida Fumio, as well as US President Donald Trump and former President Joe Biden, and the other G7 leaders, for continuing to emphasize at international venues that peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait are essential components for global security and prosperity. When everyone in the global democratic community works together, stacking up enough strength to make China’s objectives unattainable or to make the cost of invading Taiwan too high for it to bear, a conflict in the strait can naturally be avoided. Q: As you said, President Lai, maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is also very important for other countries. How can war be avoided? What sort of countermeasures is Taiwan prepared to take to prevent war? President Lai: As Mr. Sakurai mentioned earlier, we are coming up on the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. There are many lessons we can take from that war. First is that peace is priceless, and war has no winners. From the tragedies of WWII, there are lessons that humanity should learn. We must pursue peace, and not start wars blindly, as that would be a major disaster for humanity. In other words, we must be determined to safeguard peace. The second lesson is that we cannot be complacent toward authoritarian powers. If you give them an inch, they will take a mile. They will keep growing, and eventually, not only will peace be unattainable, but war will be inevitable. The third lesson is why WWII ended: It ended because different groups joined together in solidarity. Taiwan, Japan, and the Indo-Pacific region are all directly subjected to China’s threats, so we hope to be able to join together in cooperation. This is why we proposed the Four Pillars of Peace action plan. First, we will strengthen our national defense. Second, we will strengthen economic resilience. Third is standing shoulder to shoulder with the democratic community to demonstrate the strength of deterrence. Fourth is that as long as China treats Taiwan with parity and dignity, Taiwan is willing to conduct exchanges and cooperate with China, and seek peace and mutual prosperity. These four pillars can help us avoid war and achieve peace. That is to say, Taiwan hopes to achieve peace through strength, prevent war by preparing for war, keeping war from happening and pursuing the goal of peace. Q: Regarding drones, everyone knows that recently, Taiwan has been actively researching, developing, and introducing drones. Why do you need to actively research, develop, and introduce new drones at this time? President Lai: This is for two purposes. The first is to meet national security needs. The second is to meet industrial development needs. Because Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines are all part of the first island chain, and we are all democratic nations, we cannot be like an authoritarian country like China, which has an unlimited national defense budget. In this kind of situation, island nations such as Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines should leverage their own technologies to develop national defense methods that are asymmetric and utilize unmanned vehicles. In particular, from the Russo-Ukrainian War, we see that Ukraine has successfully utilized unmanned vehicles to protect itself and prevent Russia from unlimited invasion. In other words, the Russo-Ukrainian War has already proven the importance of drones. Therefore, the first purpose of developing drones is based on national security needs. Second, the world has already entered the era of smart technology. Whether generative, agentic, or physical, AI will continue to develop. In the future, cars and ships will also evolve into unmanned vehicles and unmanned boats, and there will be unmanned factories. Drones will even be able to assist with postal deliveries, or services like Uber, Uber Eats, and foodpanda, or agricultural irrigation and pesticide spraying. Therefore, in the future era of comprehensive smart technology, developing unmanned vehicles is a necessity. Taiwan, based on industrial needs, is actively planning the development of drones and unmanned vehicles. I would like to take this opportunity to express Taiwan’s hope to collaborate with Japan in the unmanned vehicle industry. Just as we do in the semiconductor industry, where Japan has raw materials, equipment, and technology, and Taiwan has wafer manufacturing, our two countries can cooperate. Japan is a technological power, and Taiwan also has significant technological strengths. If Taiwan and Japan work together, we will not only be able to safeguard peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and security in the Indo-Pacific region, but it will also be very helpful for the industrial development of both countries. Q: The drones you just described probably include examples from the Russo-Ukrainian War. Taiwan and China are separated by the Taiwan Strait. Do our drones need to have cross-sea flight capabilities? President Lai: Taiwan does not intend to counterattack the mainland, and does not intend to invade any country. Taiwan’s drones are meant to protect our own nation and territory. Q: Former President Biden previously stated that US forces would assist Taiwan’s defense in the event of an attack. President Trump, however, has yet to clearly state that the US would help defend Taiwan. Do you think that in such an event, the US would help defend Taiwan? Or is Taiwan now trying to persuade the US? President Lai: Former President Biden and President Trump have answered questions from reporters. Although their responses were different, strong cooperation with Taiwan under the Biden administration has continued under the Trump administration; there has been no change. During President Trump’s first term, cooperation with Taiwan was broader and deeper compared to former President Barack Obama’s terms. After former President Biden took office, cooperation with Taiwan increased compared to President Trump’s first term. Now, during President Trump’s second term, cooperation with Taiwan is even greater than under former President Biden. Taiwan-US cooperation continues to grow stronger, and has not changed just because President Trump and former President Biden gave different responses to reporters. Furthermore, the Trump administration publicly stated that in the future, the US will shift its strategic focus from Europe to the Indo-Pacific. The US secretary of defense even publicly stated that the primary mission of the US is to prevent China from invading Taiwan, maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific, and thus maintain world peace. There is a saying in Taiwan that goes, “Help comes most to those who help themselves.” Before asking friends and allies for assistance in facing threats from China, Taiwan must first be determined and prepared to defend itself. This is Taiwan’s principle, and we are working in this direction, making all the necessary preparations to safeguard the nation. Q: I would like to ask you a question about Taiwan-Japan relations. After the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, you made an appeal to give Japan a great deal of assistance and care. In particular, you visited Sendai to offer condolences. Later, you also expressed condolences and concern after the earthquakes in Aomori and Kumamoto. What are your expectations for future Taiwan-Japan exchanges and development? President Lai: I come from Tainan, and my constituency is in Tainan. Tainan has very deep ties with Japan, and of course, Taiwan also has deep ties with Japan. However, among Taiwan’s 22 counties and cities, Tainan has the deepest relationship with Japan. I sincerely hope that both of you and your teams will have an opportunity to visit Tainan. I will introduce Tainan’s scenery, including architecture from the era of Japanese rule, Tainan’s cuisine, and unique aspects of Tainan society, and you can also see lifestyles and culture from the Showa era.  The Wushantou Reservoir in Tainan was completed by engineer Mr. Hatta Yoichi from Kanazawa, Japan and the team he led to Tainan after he graduated from then-Tokyo Imperial University. It has nearly a century of history and is still in use today. This reservoir, along with the 16,000-km-long Chianan Canal, transformed the 150,000-hectare Chianan Plain into Taiwan’s premier rice-growing area. It was that foundation in agriculture that enabled Taiwan to develop industry and the technology sector of today. The reservoir continues to supply water to Tainan Science Park. It is used by residents of Tainan, the agricultural sector, and industry, and even the technology sector in Xinshi Industrial Park, as well as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company. Because of this, the people of Tainan are deeply grateful for Mr. Hatta and very friendly toward the people of Japan. A major earthquake, the largest in 50 years, struck Tainan on February 6, 2016, resulting in significant casualties. As mayor of Tainan at the time, I was extremely grateful to then-Prime Minister Abe, who sent five Japanese officials to the disaster site in Tainan the day after the earthquake. They were very thoughtful and asked what kind of assistance we needed from the Japanese government. They offered to provide help based on what we needed. I was deeply moved, as former Prime Minister Abe showed such care, going beyond the formality of just sending supplies that we may or may not have actually needed. Instead, the officials asked what we needed and then provided assistance based on those needs, which really moved me. Similarly, when the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011 or the later Kumamoto earthquakes struck, the people of Tainan, under my leadership, naturally and dutifully expressed their support. Even earlier, when central Taiwan was hit by a major earthquake in 1999, Japan was the first country to deploy a rescue team to the disaster area. On February 6, 2018, after a major earthquake in Hualien, former Prime Minister Abe appeared in a video holding up a message of encouragement he had written in calligraphy saying “Remain strong, Taiwan.” All of Taiwan was deeply moved. Over the years, Taiwan and Japan have supported each other when earthquakes struck, and have forged bonds that are family-like, not just neighborly. This is truly valuable. In the future, I hope Taiwan and Japan can be like brothers, and that the peoples of Taiwan and Japan can treat one another like family. If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem; if Japan has a problem, then Taiwan has a problem. By caring for and helping each other, we can face various challenges and difficulties, and pursue a brighter future. Q: President Lai, you just used the phrase “If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem.” In the event that China attempts to invade Taiwan by force, what kind of response measures would you hope the US military and Japan’s Self-Defense Forces take? President Lai: As I just mentioned, annexing Taiwan is only China’s first step. Its ultimate objective is to change the rules-based international order. That being the case, China’s threats are an international problem. So, I would very much hope to work together with the US, Japan, and others in the global democratic community to prevent China from starting a war – prevention, after all, is more important than cure.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Peru

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Peru, H.E. Ambassador Elmer Schialer Salcedo, at the OECD Headquarters in Paris, France, on 3 June 2025. Their discussions focused on strengthening of ASEAN–Peru relations and preparations for the visit of  H.E. Dina Ercilia Boluarte Zegarra, President of the Republic of Peru to the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat in August of this year.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Peru appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Money Market Operations as on June 03, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India
    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)
      Volume
    (One Leg)    		 Weighted
    Average Rate    		 Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 5,89,368.22 5.63 4.00-6.65
         I. Call Money 14,292.98 5.77 4.85-6.65
         II. Triparty Repo 3,94,520.60 5.59 5.40-5.77
         III. Market Repo 1,79,199.44 5.68 4.00-5.90
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 1,355.20 5.92 5.85-6.60
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 122.50 5.66 5.40-5.70
         II. Term Money@@ 278.00 – 5.70-6.10
         III. Triparty Repo 1,881.50 5.68 5.64-5.80
         IV. Market Repo 0.00 – –
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo Tue, 03/06/2025 1 Wed, 04/06/2025 5,019.00 6.01
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Tue, 03/06/2025 1 Wed, 04/06/2025 447.00 6.25
    4. SDFΔ# Tue, 03/06/2025 1 Wed, 04/06/2025 3,14,265.00 5.75
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -3,08,799.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF#          
    4. SDFΔ#          
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       8,272.43  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     8,272.43  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -3,00,526.57  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on June 03, 2025 9,48,458.20  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending June 13, 2025 9,41,551.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ June 03, 2025 5,019.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on May 16, 2025 3,48,763.00  
    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).
    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.
    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.
    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.
    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.
    & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020.
    Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022.
    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.
    ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015.
    # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023.
    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    
    Press Release: 2025-2026/472

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Lee Jae-myung officially assumes duties as President of South Korea

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    SEOUL, June 4 (Xinhua) — The Central Election Commission of the Republic of Korea (ROK) confirmed Lee Jae-myung’s victory in the election on Wednesday morning, officially starting his five-year term as president.

    Lee Jae-myung took office as president at 06:21 local time with the approval of the supervisory body at a plenary session.

    He had no transition period as he was elected in a presidential by-election triggered by his predecessor’s failed attempt to impose martial law last December.

    Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Toburo Party won the snap election with 49.42 percent of the vote, beating his main rival Kim Moon-soo of the conservative Civil Power Party with 41.15 percent. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Investment to grow number of forensic beds

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government will make more beds and timely services available to people needing mental health and addiction support in the Midland Region, Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey says.

    Budget 2025 has reprioritised almost $51 million over four years to help those with acute mental health and addiction needs to access appropriate specialist forensic services in a timely manner. The investment will also support additional step-down beds.

    “Providing better mental health and addiction services to people in prison, in forensic beds or on remand can help with rehabilitation and reintegration into the community,” Mr Doocey says.

    “We know that people in the Corrections system have higher mental health and addiction needs than the general population. Currently, there are not enough beds to adequately care for those who need them.

    “This investment will improve forensic and prison mental health services throughout the Midland Region and enable greater participation in rehabilitation programmes. It will help in particular at the country’s biggest prison, Waikeria, and has the potential to relieve pressure across the wider forensic mental health system.”

    The funding will support 10 new acute inpatient beds and 8 new step-down beds delivered by Non-Government Organisations in the Midland Region. These new beds will be supported by new community wraparound support teams and funding to attract and retain specialist staff.

    “Ensuring timely access to care has been one of my top priorities. The shortage of forensic beds has caused delays in access to effective care, creating issues throughout the forensic rehabilitation system,” Mr Doocey says.

    “This funding will improve the flow of patients from forensic beds to stepdown beds and should have a positive knock-on effect for other services around the country.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Global gene banks add over 11,000 seed samples to Svalbard Vault

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

    Staff members transport seed samples into the Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Norway, on June 3, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Fourteen gene banks from around the world are depositing more than 11,200 seed samples this week at the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, underscoring the critical role of crop diversity in future food security.

    Nestled in the Arctic permafrost on Norway’s Svalbard archipelago, the Seed Vault is the world’s largest secure backup facility for crop diversity. To date, it safeguards over 1.3 million seed samples from across the globe.

    This 67th deposit includes vegetables and traditional crops that are not only vital for nutrition and climate resilience, but also for maintaining cultural identities, the Crop Trust, a managing partner of the facility, said in a press release on Tuesday.

    Among the new deposits are South Korea’s perilla and adzuki bean, Dutch heritage cabbage and spinach varieties, and Benin’s ancient cereal fonio and melon — examples of the profound link between seeds and cultural traditions worldwide.

    “These additions offer another snapshot of the rich diversity now held in the Seed Vault,” said Stefan Schmitz, executive director of the Crop Trust. They reflect how cultural heritage is intertwined with the survival of often-overlooked plant varieties — varieties that are vital to the future of food, he added.

    In total, 31 boxes of seeds are being deposited this week by gene banks from Austria, Benin, Kenya, Lebanon, the Netherlands, the Philippines, Poland, Slovakia, South Korea, Sweden, the United Kingdom, the United States, Vietnam, and Zambia.

    “The value of these seeds is immense,” said Hanne-Berit Brekken, Norway’s state secretary at Ministry of Agriculture and Food. “They will support scientists, breeders, and farmers in preparing our food systems to face both natural and human-made challenges.”

    Established in 2008, the Svalbard Global Seed Vault aims to protect the genetic diversity of the world’s food crops from threats such as war, climate change, and natural disasters. With a capacity to store up to 4.5 million distinct seed varieties, it serves as a global insurance policy for agriculture, housing duplicates from gene banks worldwide — as well as new varieties yet to be collected. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s prodigy set to make bigger splashes

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

    Six years ago, she was just another kid frolicking at water parks to escape the summer heat. However, at the recent Chinese National Swimming Championships, Yu Zidi stood atop China’s swimming elite — and the world is struggling to believe she’s only 12.

    The swimming prodigy emerged as the brightest young star at the championships held from May 17 to 24 in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, after producing a string of eye-popping performances.

    Yu Zidi, 12, has already secured three “A” cut qualifying spots for the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore in July. XINHUA

    On May 24, sporting her signature swim cap adorned with a cartoon dog pattern, Yu clinched the women’s 400m individual medley title by a staggering margin of almost two seconds. She dominated a competitive field, setting a personal best time of 4:35.53, impressively surpassing the world championships qualifying standard of 4:43.06.

    Her time ranked as the fifth fastest time of the year, a feat that would have secured her fourth place at the Paris Olympics.

    Just three days earlier, Yu claimed gold in the 200m butterfly event with an incredible time of 2:06.83, also the fifth fastest globally this year and another that would have garnered a fourth place in Paris.

    That prompted the global governing body, World Aquatics, to post: “12-year-old sensation alert!” on social media.

    “My lungs were about to explode! I didn’t know my time; I just focused on my pace, stroke by stroke,” Yu recounted.

    She started the week-long China championships by taking second in the 200m individual medley behind Paris Olympian Yu Yiting, with another worlds-qualifying time of 2:10.63.

    Yu Zidi performances secured her three “A” cut qualifying spots for the upcoming World Aquatics Championships in Singapore this July.

    “I’m really excited and hope to achieve good results, but since I have never been to the World Aquatics Championships before, I’ll just focus on doing my best,” she said.

    Yu Zidi started swimming at six years old during a summer vacation.

    “That summer was too hot, so I went to the water park with my dad for fun. Later, because it was a long vacation, I often went to a swimming pool to cool off, and a coach noticed me there. At the time, I thought, why not give it a try? So I tried, and here I am now,” Yu Zidi recalled.

    After that, she began training as part of a swimming team every day after school.

    “It was crazy busy — barely any time to play, but fulfilling,” said Yu Zidi.

    Li Chao is the coach who first spotted Yu Zidi in 2019.

    “She has a great feel for the water and isn’t afraid, even when diving,” Li recalled. “At first, Yu (Zidi) trained alongside kids five or six years older than her. What stood out the most was her incredibly strong legs.”

    Yu Zidi’s idol is China’s middle-distance freestyle swimmer Li Bingjie. In one of her school essays, she expressed her aspirations: “I hope to become an Olympic champion like her when I grow up — I want to experience that feeling for myself. Even though it’s tiring, as long as I can keep swimming, I’ll continue striving to bring glory to our country.”

    Yu Zidi shared how Li Bingjie personally coached her on poolside techniques — from refining turns, to underwater kicks — and patiently explained training plans that she initially found challenging to grasp.

    Despite being just 12 years old, Yu Zidi has already developed her own life philosophy through her daily training: “The most challenging moments often arise when you are on the brink of achieving your goal — that’s when perseverance is crucial. I firmly believe that giving my all in every training session will ultimately lead to good results.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: SW China mountainous county brews global matcha success

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

    An aerial drone photo taken on May 15, 2025 shows Wei Yong (C) explaining key points of planting to tea farmers in Jiangkou County, southwest China’s Guizhou Province. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin)

    In Jiangkou County, nestled in southwest China’s mountainous Guizhou Province, a centuries-old tea tradition is fueling a modern global boom.

    In 2024, the county’s matcha sales exceeded 1,200 tonnes with an output value surpassing 300 million yuan (about 41.7 million U.S. dollars), while its products have been exported to overseas markets including Japan, the United States and France.

    As a major matcha-producing country, China is poised to produce over 5,000 tonnes of matcha in 2025. Notably, Guizhou, leveraging its high-altitude tea farms, low latitude and misty climate, accounts for one quarter of China’s national output and exports to more than 40 countries and regions.

    Jiangkou County, located at the foot of Guizhou’s UNESCO-listed Fanjing Mountain, was once a poverty-stricken region but is now a pioneer in the field of matcha production. This turnaround began in 2017, when cutting-edge matcha industrial technology was introduced to this area.

    Led by industry leaders in partnership with allied enterprises and local farmers, this initiative has established a province-wide matcha industrial network in Guizhou — spanning 22 counties and empowering nearly 100,000 tea growers via increased incomes.

    The county’s tea fields currently cover 160,000 mu (about 10,667 hectares), with 20 percent dedicated to matcha production.

    “We control every step from farming to processing — to ensure premium quality,” said Meng Zude, chairman of Gui Tea Group, a leading tea company that manages the industrial cluster in Jiangkou.

    Meng explained that farmers focus on cultivation while allied partners process leaves. Gui Tea Group then refines leaves into premium matcha. From field to factory, free technical support ensures EU-standard compliance across the supply chain, Meng added.

    Jiangkou County has adapted Japanese matcha techniques to local conditions through both collaborations with experts and in-house research and development. Farmers now implement fertilization protocols, eco-friendly pest control and precision pruning — critical steps that ensure high-quality tencha leaves.

    Four tonnes of matcha have already been exported to Japan in 2025, while another six tonnes are scheduled for shipment to this traditional matcha hub this year, according to Chen Xiaoming, deputy director of Gui Tea’s foreign trade business.

    “Domestic clients now approach us directly, while Japanese buyers seek raw material supplies,” Chen said, adding that inquiries have grown significantly.

    “Matcha isn’t just a drink,” said Chen. “It’s a lifestyle China now leads.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China rising in rankings of universities

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

    China Daily | June 4, 2025

    Students take selfies during the 8th International Culture Festival of Tianjin Foreign Studies University in North China’s Tianjin, April 20, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The global higher education landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, as China shows consistent improvement in academic output while universities in the United States face downward pressure in global rankings amid recent student visa policies, experts said.

    China has surpassed the US for the first time in the number of universities listed in the latest Global 2000 university rankings. Chinese institutions now account for 17 percent of the list, up from 324 last year to 346 this year, while the number of ranked US universities dropped from 329 to 319.

    The World University Rankings 2025, released on Monday by the Center for World University Rankings, revealed that 98 percent of Chinese universities improved their positions — a surge attributed to enhanced research performance and sustained government investment in higher education.

    Tsinghua University rose six places to rank 37th, excelling in employability and research. Peking University advanced three places to the 44th, while the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences jumped four places to 46th — surpassing Shanghai Jiao Tong University in the 61st place and Zhejiang University in the 68th position.

    Nadim Mahassen, president of the Center for World University Rankings, said that China is well represented among the world’s top universities, and further financial backing from the government will allow the country to be more competitive in the rapidly evolving global academic landscape.

    Although the US still has eight of the world’s top 10 universities — led by Harvard, MIT and Stanford — 83 percent of its listed institutions declined in rank. The United Kingdom’s Cambridge and Oxford secured the fourth and fifth places, respectively.

    Mahassen said that while the US still boasts the top universities in the world, the decline in ranking of the vast majority of its higher education institutions on the list is concerning.

    “At a time when Chinese universities are reaping the rewards of years of generous financial support from their government, American institutions are grappling with slashed federal funding and disputes over academic freedom and free speech,” he said.

    Recent controversies, such as the Trump administration’s move to revoke enrollment of international students at Harvard, later blocked by a federal judge, highlight the challenges facing US higher education.

    “For many years, American universities were able to attract a large number of international students, particularly from China. But with China’s extraordinary ascent in the rankings, coupled with the recent visa policies of the US, the situation may change soon,” Mahassen said.

    Liu Wei, senior vice-president of New Channel International Education Group and CEO of its overseas study division, said that China has been gaining ground in multiple international ranking systems — including QS, Times Higher Education and the Academic Ranking of World Universities — showing consistent improvement in academic output and global research influence.

    He emphasized that recent US visa policies toward Chinese students, such as the announcement of revoking the visas of some of those studying in “critical fields”, are also influencing the global higher education landscape and may affect the future rankings of US and Chinese institutions.

    “Stricter visa policies have introduced uncertainty for Chinese students seeking to study in the US, prompting many to consider alternatives,” Liu said.

    Countries such as the UK, Canada, Australia and Singapore, as well as some European countries, have ramped up efforts to attract international students, particularly those diverting from the US.

    Universities in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region also moved quickly to offer assistance when Harvard’s ability to admit international students was curtailed.

    Chen Zhiwen, a member of the Chinese Society of Educational Development Strategy, said that Chinese students contribute significantly to research productivity and academic exchanges on US campuses, especially in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math, as well as among postgraduate students.

    A decline in the number of Chinese students due to visa policies could have an impact on academic output in US higher education, Chen said. Chinese universities could benefit from this in the long term, as students who planned to study in the US may instead enroll in top domestic institutions, boosting China’s academic and research environment, he added.

    “Since 2018, the proportion of Tsinghua University graduates pursuing overseas studies has shown a declining trend,” he said, adding that the trend could usher in a more multipolar higher education system, reducing the US’ historical dominance.

    MIL OSI China News –