Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI Security: PACAF F-16 Demo Team conducts final flight after 30 years of enhancing U.S. relations worldwide

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    MISAWA AIR BASE, AOMORI, Japan — U.S. Air Force Capt. Ethan “Bantam” Smith slams the engine throttle to maximum, creating 29,000 lbs. of thrust that launches the F-16 Fighting Falcon down the runway at over 150 mph before lifting off and immediately banking hard into a figure eight turn. Low pressure air ripping away from the fuselage condenses the late Spring humidity into an iconic pair of white vapor cones engulfing the sides of the jet.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 31, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 31, 2025.

    Detroit’s population grew in 2023, 2024 − a strategy to welcome immigrants helps explain the turnaround from decades of population decline
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul N. McDaniel, Associate Professor of Geography, Kennesaw State University The Mexican-American community in southwest Detroit held a rally in March 2025, asking ICE to leave the immigrant community alone. Jim West/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images Detroit’s population grew in 2024 for the second year in

    Hurricane season is here, but FEMA’s policy change could leave low-income areas less protected
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ivis García, Associate Professor of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning, Texas A&M University Hurricane Harvey inundated the Cottage Grove neighborhood of Houston in 2018. Scott Olson/Getty Images When powerful storms hit your city, which neighborhoods are most likely to flood? In many cities, they’re typically low-income areas.

    Shock NSW Senate result as One Nation beats Labor to win final seat
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne The button was pressed to electronically distribute preferences for the New South Wales Senate today. All analysts expected Labor to win the final seat, for a three

    GPs will be a great help for managing ADHD medications. But many patients will still need specialists
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adam Guastella, Professor and Clinical Psychologist, Michael Crouch Chair in Child and Youth Mental Health, University of Sydney The New South Wales government this week announced reforms that will allow some GPs to treat and potentially diagnose attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This aims to make ADHD care

    Will elections for judges make Mexico the ‘most democratic country in the world’? Critics fear the opposite
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Luis Gómez Romero, Senior Lecturer in Human Rights, Constitutional Law and Legal Theory, University of Wollongong On Sunday, Mexico will hold an unprecedented election, becoming the first country in the world to allow voters to elect judges at every level. Voters will elect approximately half the judges

    What is mantle cell lymphoma? Magda Szubanski’s ‘rare and fast-moving’ cancer, explained
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John (Eddie) La Marca, Senior Research Officer, Blood Cells and Blood Cancer, WEHI (Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research) Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Beloved Australian actor, Magda Szubanski, has revealed she’s been diagnosed with a “very rare, very aggressive, very serious” blood cancer called mantle cell

    Keith Rankin Analysis – Who, neither politician nor monarch, executed 100,000 civilians in a single night?
    Analysis by Keith Rankin. Who, neither politician nor monarch, executed 100,000 civilians in a single night? Answer: Curtis LeMay, American Air Force General, in the wee hours of 10 March 1945. While authorised by his immediate superior, this firebombing of Tokyo was a decentralised military operation which received subsequent popular approval. It was called ‘Operation

    ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 30, 2025
    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 30, 2025.

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wicker Stresses Peace Through Strength to AF Association, Updates on One Big Beautiful Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, spoke at the Air Force Association Chapter Meeting in Meridian, Mississippi. He highlighted the history of refueling airplanes in Meridian, a particularly relevant topic amid the U.S. Air Force’s ongoing KC-46 basing decision process. Chairman Wicker also discussed his plan to rebuild the American military, which he had published a year to the day earlier in his landmark report, 21st Century Peace Through Strength. Below are excerpts from his speech, lightly edited for clarity.  

    Click Here for Full Remarks.

    On Being Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Implementing Peace Through Strength:

    “I’m the first Chairman of the Armed Services Committee from Mississippi since John C. Stennis was Chairman of Armed Services. It is a dream for me to be able to do that, and particularly at a time like this. We need to be ready to defend ourselves against the axis of aggressors – China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran – that I talk about in my paper, 21st Century Peace Through Strength. Three of those powers have nuclear weapons. One of them is days, perhaps weeks, away from having a nuclear weapon. I absolutely stand with President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu that our policy should firmly be: Iran never gets a nuclear weapon. Iran hates the United States. They hate the West, they hate democracies, and their aim is to destroy us. They don’t get a nuclear weapon. We can stop it, or we can do as other administrations did and take them at their word that they’re only trying to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes. Do you know how much oil is in the Middle East, and how little they need nuclear power in the Middle East, in Iran, to power themselves? There is no reason in the world for them to want enriched uranium other than to create a nuclear bomb. It would mean the destruction, almost certainly, of our ally Israel.”

    On the KC-46 Basing Decision and Meridian’s History of Refueling:

    ”Let’s talk about some of the things that we’re doing for KC-46 here at the 186. Six point seven million dollars in the last National Defense Authorization Act to accelerate the planning and design of a corrosion control hangar. One million dollars to update the fuel hydrant system, $5.6 million to support planning and design of a maintenance hangar, $1.9 million to support the planning and design of a base supply warehouse at Key Field. There’s more to come, and there’s more we’re doing. I, along with Senator Hyde-Smith and Congressmen Michael Guest and Trent Kelly are going to do the best we can to bring the KC-46 to Meridian. 1971, I was in ROTC, and I’m at field training at Grissom Air Force Base. In 1972, we had dinner with Al Key, mayor of Meridian. His brother Fred had set the record – 27 days in air flight without ever landing. Let me tell you, folks, we invented air refueling in Meridian, Mississippi, and I think that ought to give us a leg up for the KC-46. One man was flying the plane for 27 straight days, and when his brother would come up in another biplane to refuel with a hose, the pilot would get out on the wing of that plane, leaving the cockpit, and they would refuel that plane. They did that for 27 days.”

    On the One Big Beautiful Bill and the Golden Dome:

    “There is one piece of legislation that just passed the House and is now being considered in the Senate called the One Big Beautiful Bill, which includes funding for the Golden Dome. I was talking to Donald J. Trump in the Oval Office, and I was advocating for Iron Dome for America. We think the technology is there to do it for the entire continent. He said, “I think we ought to call it the Golden Dome.” It’s going to be expensive, but I think we have to do this, and we’ve got the technology to do that. North Korea can get a missile to the continental United States right now. China can get a missile to the United States right now, and Russia can. We need that protection. What we had to worry about 15 years ago does not compare to what we have now. A cyberattack is a part of national defense now. It is the next quantum leap of what we’re worried about, and that’s why I’m going to vote for this One Big Beautiful Bill. It’s got $150 billion for defense. The President of the United States is behind the Armed Services Committee of the Senate and the House on putting at least $150 billion in this. It will just get us started. But we are behind. We need to be at 5 percent of our national economy. We are in a position now, with the help of this One Big Beautiful Bill, of getting us back to 5 percent of our economy and having the ability to prevent war. There has never been a war started against a country because that country was too strong. Wars start because the victim country is not strong enough. We are determined to get us back to the point where we are so strong that we never have to send these people into combat. That’s the way to stay out of war, and the opposite is the way we’ve always gotten into war.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI China: IOMed to provide pathways for international dispute resolution: Chinese FM

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

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, poses for a group photo with other guests at the signing ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) in Hong Kong, south China, May 30, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) aligns with the peace concept cherished by both China and Benin, and will provide new pathways for international dispute resolution mechanisms, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in Hong Kong on Friday.

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when meeting with Beninese Foreign Minister Olushegun Adjadi Bakari who participated the signing ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the IOMed in Hong Kong, south China.

    Wang noted that the establishment of the IOMed addresses the common concerns of countries seeking peace, promoting stability, and pursuing development. It aligns with the prevailing trend of win-win cooperation and promotes the development of global governance towards a more just and equitable direction.

    When discussing China-Benin relations, Wang said Benin is a strategic partner of China in Africa, adding that the important consensus reached by the leaders of both countries and the initiatives of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation are being steadily implemented.

    China is willing to work with Benin to effectively implement the 10 partnership actions for modernization, accelerate the process of common development, and promote the continuous growth of the China-Benin strategic partnership, Wang added.

    For his part, Bakari said that being one of the first signatory countries of the convention, Benin shares with China the concept of upholding multilateralism, and advocating for dialogue and consultation to resolve conflicts and disputes. Benin will expedite the approval of the convention, aiming for the IOMed to operate as soon as possible, bringing greater stability to the world, which is very important for the African continent.

    Benin will always stand with China and is willing to promote the continuous advancement of Benin-China relations, the foreign minister said.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Shangri-La Dialogue 2025 kicks off in Singapore amid geopolitical tensions

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

    People in uniforms perform security duties outside the Shangri-La Hotel, the venue for the 22nd Shangri-La Dialogue, in Singapore, May 30, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The 22nd edition of the Shangri-La Dialogue, Asia’s premier defense and security summit, opened in Singapore on Friday amid geopolitical tensions.

    This year’s dialogue drew representatives from 47 countries, including 40 ministerial-level delegates, 20 chief of defense forces-level delegates, over 20 senior defense officials, and prominent academics, according to the Singapore Ministry of Defense.

    A Chinese delegation from the National Defense University of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army is attending the event.

    French President Emmanuel Macron is set to deliver a keynote speech late Friday, where he’s expected to position France — and Europe — as champions of international cooperation and rules-based trade.

    U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is set to speak on Saturday about America’s “new ambitions for Indo-Pacific security.” Observers say he faces a tough task in convincing Asian allies, many of whom remain uneasy about President Donald Trump’s disruptive policies, not least those related to trade.

    Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will also give a speech on Saturday and make clear how, amid global geopolitical uncertainties and sharpened geo-economic fault lines, Malaysia as ASEAN’s current chair, provides strategic leadership for the region and beyond, according to the International Institute for Strategic Studies, the organizer.

    EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas is also scheduled to speak on Saturday.

    Analysts say key topics will likely include regional cooperation, the U.S. security policies and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The implications of sweeping U.S. tariffs are also likely to attract attention, as officials will use the platform to reassure partners and navigate an increasingly multipolar security landscape.

    The Dialogue runs from Friday through Sunday.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: CPC delegation attends int’l conference of Asian political parties

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

    A delegation of the Communist Party of China (CPC), led by Sun Haiyan, vice minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, visited Russia from Wednesday to Friday.

    During the visit, the delegation attended the meeting of the Standing Committee of the International Conference of Asian Political Parties and participated in a forum on Eurasian cooperation hosted by the United Russia party.

    Sun met with Vladimir Yakushev, secretary of the United Russia’s General Council. The two sides exchanged views on strengthening exchanges between the ruling parties of China and Russia and jointly implementing the important consensus reached by the two countries’ leaders.

    Sun also briefed Yakushev on the key messages of the Central Conference on Work Relating to Foreign Affairs with Neighboring Countries.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash: Northland

    Source: New Zealand Police

    One person has died following a serious crash in Northland this morning.

    At around midnight emergency services were called to a two-vehicle crash on State Highway 1, near Waiomio, south of Kawakawa.

    Sadly, one person died at the scene. Our thoughts are with their family at this difficult time.

    The Serious Crash Unit has conducted a scene examination and the road is now open.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Multinational forces kick off KAMANDAG 9 in the Philippines

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    FORT BONIFACIO, MANILA, Philippines — Philippine, U.S., Japan, Korean and United Kingdom military leaders launched KAMANDAG 9 on Monday with an opening ceremony hosted at Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown, marking the official start of the ninth iteration of the Kaagapay ng mga Mandirigma ng Dagat (“Cooperation of Warriors of the Sea”) exercise.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SFST promotes HK’s measures for integrating traditional and digital finance at Web Summit Vancouver (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SFST promotes HK’s measures for integrating traditional and digital finance at Web Summit Vancouver  
    The Web Summit, a mega event for the tech sector, attracted over 10 000 tech investors, entrepreneurs and industry leaders across the world each time it is hosted. This is the first time the Summit has been held in Vancouver. Mr Hui engaged in a panel discussion session titled “Local to global: Strategies for tech success”, which was joined by the Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation of the Province of British Columbia, Canada, Ms Diana Gibson. They had an illuminating discussion on the various approaches taken in building dynamic fintech economies, ranging from developing talent, attracting investment to creating opportunities.
     
    Mr Hui said that as one of the top three international financial centres and a leading international green finance hub, Hong Kong is pioneering the integration of traditional and digital finance with a view to strengthening its position as Asia’s gateway for financial innovation. The city is striving to accelerate green and sustainable finance and virtual asset development, with a view to making them key components of the diversified financial value chain. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority has already commenced sandbox experimentation of Project Ensemble, which is a new wholesale central bank digital currency project to support the development of the tokenisation market in Hong Kong.
     
          The fintech ecosystem is thriving in Hong Kong, with around 1 100 fintech companies and start-ups, including 10 licensed virtual asset trading platforms, eight digital banks and four virtual insurers. Pledged to continue playing a leading role in facilitating green and sustainable financing and investment for the global agenda of green transition, Hong Kong issued a policy statement last October to set out its policy stance and approach on the responsible application of artificial intelligence in the financial market. The Government also launched a roadmap last December to require publicly accountable entities (PAEs) to adopt the International Financial Reporting Standards – Sustainability Disclosure Standards (ISSB Standards) and to provide a well-defined pathway for large PAEs to fully adopt the ISSB Standards no later than 2028. This brings Hong Kong among the first jurisdictions to align its local requirements with ISSB Standards. As an initial step, the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited has already started to implement in phases new climate disclosure requirements to reflect the ISSB Standard No. 2: Climate-related Disclosures since this January.
     
    Mr Hui also updated the Summit on the latest passage of legislation last week establishing a licensing regime for fiat-referenced stablecoins issuers in Hong Kong, as a way to further enhance Hong Kong’s regulatory framework on virtual asset activities for supporting the healthy, responsible and sustainable development of Hong Kong’s stablecoin and the broader digital asset ecosystem. Hong Kong is among the first batch of regions to have introduced stablecoin legislation and strives to fully implement the licensing regime within this year, with a view to approving the first batch of licences as soon as practicable.
     
    Looking forward, Hong Kong will soon promulgate a second policy statement on the development of virtual assets to explore the convergence of traditional finance and virtual assets. A consultation on the licensing regimes for virtual asset over-the-counter trading services and custodian services will also be conducted within this year.
     
    During his stay at the Summit, Mr Hui visited exhibition booths manned by Hong Kong delegates. He was pleased to learn that the Hong Kong delegates received encouraging feedback over the past few days, reflecting the world-class standard of Hong Kong fintech talent and their appeal to investors.
     
         In the afternoon, Mr Hui paid a courtesy call to the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Vancouver, Mr Yang Shu. Mr Yang said Hong Kong has always been a window of the country to the world and will continue to be. He encouraged Hong Kong to keep up with its work in deepening international exchanges and co-operation.
     
    Before concluding his visit to Canada, Mr Hui visited Bank of Montreal and met with the Senior Vice President & Head, Mid-Market, Commercial Bank, Mr Andrew Hung, and Senior Vice President & Head, BC & Yukon, Mr Greg Vriend. He told them that in a world full of geopolitical uncertainties, Hong Kong’s financial market is emerging as a risk-off haven for investors and attracting more investments owing to its connectivity with the Mainland and the world at large, bringing greater prospects for the banking sector and different financial areas.
     
    Mr Hui will return to Hong Kong in the early hours of May 31 (Vancouver time).
    Issued at HKT 9:40

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A county in China exports matcha around the world

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, May 30 (Xinhuanet) — The tradition of drinking matcha originated in ancient China and was later spread to Japan. Jiangkou County in Tongren City, southwest China’s Guizhou Province, has become the world’s production center for this type of tea. In 2024 alone, the county sold more than 1,200 tons of matcha, worth over 300 million yuan (about 41.7 million U.S. dollars). The county’s products enter overseas markets including Japan, the United States and France.

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    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorneys general oppose Trump ban on transgender military service

    Source: Washington State News

    SEATTLE — The president’s discriminatory ban on transgender military service members undermines state and national security, attorneys general in 20 states argued in a brief filed in the Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit on Friday. The brief was filed in support of a lawsuit from personnel seeking to overturn the order.

    Washington Attorney General Nick Brown co-authored the amicus brief that says the president’s order “not only violates the Constitution…but it will also weaken our nation’s military, including the National Guards operated by all Amici States.”

    The brief was filed in Shilling v. Trump, which was brought by lead plaintiff and decorated U.S. Navy Commander Emily Shilling. Shilling, who has served for over 20 years and flown over 60 combat and high-risk missions, is transgender and wants to continue working for the American public. Back in February, Brown’s office — joined by 20 other states — filed an amicus brief in support of the plaintiffs. The district court relied on that brief in issuing a preliminary injunction halting implementation of the president’s executive order nationwide.

    Friday’s amicus filing reaffirms that the injunction is necessary to protect important state interests.

    The attorneys general describe how the president’s action deprives states’ National Guard units of experienced and qualified soldiers at a time when recruitment is especially challenging. Trump’s blatantly discriminatory policy is also fundamentally at odds with state laws protecting transgender individuals.

    Washington was joined by the attorneys general of 19 other states in the filing, which was co-authored by Brown’s office and the Vermont Attorney General’s Office. The other states joining are California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin.

    The brief is available here.

    -30-

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI China: Global Forum on Int’l Mediation held in Hong Kong to address state-to-state, commercial disputes

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

    This photo taken on May 30, 2025 shows a view of the International Organization for Mediation in south China’s Hong Kong. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The Global Forum on International Mediation was convened in Hong Kong on Friday, following the signing ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) earlier.

    The occasion gathered leaders of several signatory states of the Convention, heads of international organizations and multilateral institutions, experts in the field of international mediation, and other stakeholders, to delve into topics including state-to-state mediation as well as international investment and international commercial dispute mediation.

    They applauded mediation’s dual focus on procedural and outcome fairness, describing it as a “win-win” alternative to adversarial legal processes. They also believed that the IOMed would fill a critical gap in global dispute-resolution mechanisms, enhancing both international governance and state-to-state collaboration.

    In his keynote address, Paul Lam, secretary for justice of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government, emphasized the principle of peaceful dispute resolution under international law, calling mediation a forward-looking and constructive approach compared to traditional litigation and arbitration.

    Lam underscored the selection of Hong Kong as the court’s headquarters as a testament to its legal infrastructure, citing Hong Kong’s pool of cross-jurisdictional legal talent and track record in international dispute resolution. Hong Kong’s common law system and reputation for efficiency position it as a global hub for legal services, he said, adding that it would leverage this role to expand mediation services and attract more member states.

    Indonesia’s Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Arif Havas Oegroseno praised the convention’s timing, calling it a response to global demand for cooperative conflict resolution. He highlighted gaps in current international mechanisms and stressed the importance of a specialized body for strengthening the global legal framework. Oegroseno said Indonesia would actively participate in drafting the court’s rules and collaborate with the relevant parties to advance its mandate.

    Edward Liu, the principal representative of the International Chamber of Shipping (China) Liaison Office and a partner at Haiwen & Partners LLP, described the court as a “Chinese solution” expands the focus on economic engagement to formal dispute resolution, saying that it embodies China’s philosophy of “harmony with diversity” and signals China’s commitment to global governance.

    Noting Hong Kong’s unique status as a common law jurisdiction under “one country, two systems,” Liu said Hong Kong’s role as the court’s base aligns with its designation as an “Asia-Pacific international legal and dispute resolution center.”

    The role as a “super-connector” and a “super value-adder” between the Chinese mainland and the rest of the world positions Hong Kong to serve both national priorities and international needs, he said.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese FM meets Pakistani counterpart on ties

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

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in Hong Kong on Friday that China is willing to work with Pakistan and like-minded countries to enhance the unique advantages of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed).

    When meeting with Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, who attended the signing ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the IOMed in Hong Kong, Wang said that China is willing to work with Pakistan and other countries to provide voluntary and efficient new options for dispute settlement for all countries, and a new platform for maintaining peace, stability, fairness and justice in the global South.

    Dar said that China’s initiative to establish the IOMed was timely and represented an important contribution to strengthening the multilateral system. He noted that the recent informal meeting of foreign ministers from Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan in Beijing was a success. Pakistan decided to accept China’s mediation proposal and elevate its diplomatic relations with Afghanistan to the ambassadorial level.

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that Pakistan’s move to upgrade its diplomatic ties with Afghanistan will help improve relations, enhance trust and strengthen cooperation between the two countries.

    China supports Pakistan in assuming the rotating presidency of the United Nations Security Council in July and contributing to international peace and security, Wang added.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI: Trans Mountain Corporation Releases First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Trans Mountain Corporation (“TMC” or “the Company”) has released its financial statements and associated management report for the three months ending March 31, 2025. The Company’s financial results are also included in Canada Development Investment Corporation’s (“CDEV”) consolidated quarterly financial statements.

    Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (“EBITDA”) reflect the performance of TMC’s base business. Revenues and Adjusted EBITDA have increased significantly following the commercial commencement of the Expanded System on May 1, 2024.

    Financial Highlights:

    • EBITDA: For the three-month period ending March 31, 2025, Adjusted EBITDA increased by $532 million to $568 million, compared to $36 million in the same period of the prior year.
    • Capital Structure: In December 2024, Canada TMP Finance Ltd., the entity which holds the Government of Canada’s investment in TMC, provided funding to repay $17.9 billion of guaranteed third-party debt. The refinancing results in lower interest costs for the Company, making additional funds available to optimize the system, grow, pay down debt or increase returns to its shareholder.
    • Capital Return: During the first quarter an aggregate of $311 million was paid to Canada TMP Finance Ltd., consisting of $148 million in interest payments and $163 million in cash dividends. These distributions are expected to grow significantly in 2026 and beyond.

    Operational Highlights:

    • Throughput: During the first quarter, the Expanded System had an average daily mainline throughput of approximately 757,000 barrels per day (bpd), including 445,000 bpd to Westridge Marine Terminal, 227,000 bpd to Washington state on the Puget Sound Pipeline and 85,000 bpd to BC delivery points.
    • Vessel Traffic: For the three-month period ending March 31, 2025, 74 vessels were loaded at Westridge Marine Terminal, including 29 vessels in March marking a new monthly high for the Expanded System’s operation. Since the commercial commencement of the Expanded System on May 1, 2024, TMC has loaded 266 vessels at the terminal. Third-party information suggests vessel destinations have been broadly split between the US West Coast and Asia.
    • Loading Performance: Ship loading performance remains strong. During the quarter, approximately 90 per cent of ships were loaded on time, with delays attributable to vessel operator factors.

    Since the commercial commencement of the Expanded System, all deliveries have been subject to the Expanded System tariff and tolls. Contractually committed revenues associated with the 15-and 20-year transportation service contracts covering approximately 80 per cent of the Expanded System’s capacity have resulted in a significant increase to transportation volumes, revenues and Adjusted EBITDA.

    TMC reported net income of $148 million for the first quarter of 2025, as compared to $158 million in the same period of the prior year. While Adjusted EBITDA reflects the results from the Company’s base business, net income incorporates depreciation and amortization expense, as well as the significant financing impacts of the Trans Mountain Expansion Project (“TMEP”), specifically, the equity allowance for funds used during construction (“AFUDC”), interest expense and capitalized debt financing costs.

    While net income decreased by $10 million year-over year, the underlying factors changed significantly. Interest expense before capitalized debt financing costs was materially lower, reflecting the recapitalization of TMC’s balance sheet in December 2024. However, these savings were offset by increased depreciation and amortization expense, and the cessation of equity AFUDC and capitalized debt financing costs on TMEP following the commercial commencement of the Expanded System.

    CEO Comments

    “Trans Mountain is demonstrating its strategic value to Canada’s economy,” said Mark Maki, Chief Executive Officer, Trans Mountain Corporation. “Our team remains focused on safe, reliable operations as we complete one year of Expanded System operations. The Expanded System has driven strong value to Canada’s energy producers and Canadians overall.” Maki continued, “This critical infrastructure is opening new global markets for Canadian energy, reducing reliance on a single US market and ensuring long-term economic benefits for Canadians. These results reflect the hard work, commitment to safety and collaboration of our dedicated team.

    For the three-month period ending March 31, 2025, the West Texas Intermediate to Western Canadian Select differential averaged US$13 per barrel (bbl), which was US$4 per bbl narrower than the average of US$17 per bbl in Q1, 2024. While the differential does not directly affect TMC’s operational or financial performance, the commencement of the Expanded System has contributed to greater egress optionality and improved oil prices for Canadian producers in the Western Canada Sedimentary Basin,” concluded Maki.

    See the full financial statements and management report documents here. See CDEV’s Quarterly Report here.

    Looking Forward

    Toll Hearing: TMC continues to operate under an interim toll structure currently before the Canada Energy Regulator (CER). On November 30, 2023, the CER approved preliminary interim tolls for the Expanded System, which remain in effect today. Under the current CER hearing timeline, final arguments are scheduled for late 2025.

    Optimization Opportunities: Trans Mountain is exploring both short and long-term optimization projects aimed at increasing pipeline capacity by 200,000 bpd to 300,000 bpd. Potential solutions may include the use of drag-reducing agents to increase flow efficiency, as well as other operational enhancements to improve system capabilities.

    Forward-looking information

    This news release contains certain statements that constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws (“forward-looking information”). Forward-looking information is not historical fact, but instead represents the current expectations of TMC regarding future operating results and other future events relating to TMC, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of the control of TMC. Forward-looking information can be identified by words or phrases such as “will”, “may”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “intend”, “plan”, “seek”, “aim”, “potential”, “should”, “would” and similar words or expressions. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, expectations regarding future distributions, potential uses of funds resulting from lower interest costs, expected timing for final arguments for the current CER hearing, potential optimization projects and the expected increase in pipeline capacity resulting from such projects. the opening of global markets for Canadian energy and long-term economic benefits resulting from TMC’s infrastructure. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information. The forward-looking information in this news release is based on certain assumptions that TMC has made regarding, among other things: market conditions, economic conditions, prevailing governmental policies, regulatory, tax, and environmental laws and regulations, inflation rates and commodity prices, future demand for space on TMC’s pipeline systems, interest, tax and foreign exchange rates and expected cash flows and availability of funds. Although TMC believes the assumptions and other factors reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable as of the date hereof, there can be no assurance that these assumptions and factors will prove to be correct and, as such, forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance. Forward-looking information is subject to a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially, including, but not limited to: the regulatory environment and decisions, including the outcome of regulatory hearings, the available supply and price of energy commodities, TMC’s ability to successfully implement its strategic priorities, the operating performance of TMC’s pipelines and related assets, performance and credit risk of TMC’s counterparties, the geopolitical environment, actions taken by governmental or regulatory authorities, changes in laws, the occurrence of unexpected events such as fires and severe weather conditions, cyber-attacks and other accidents or similar events and adverse general economic and market conditions or other risk factors, many of which are beyond the control of TMC. The foregoing list of assumptions and risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive. The forward-looking information contained in this news release speaks only as of the date hereof. TMC does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information contained herein, except as required by applicable laws. All forward looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

    GAAP and Non-GAAP measures

    We make use of certain financial measures that do not have a standardized meaning under U.S. GAAP because we believe they improve management’s ability to evaluate our operating performance and compare results between periods. These are known as non-GAAP measures and may not be similar to measures provided by other entities. The non-GAAP measures discussed above should not be considered as an alternative to or more meaningful than revenues, net income, operating income or other U.S. GAAP measures. Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization and equity AFUDC) is a non-GAAP measure we use to evaluate our operating performance and is calculated from its most directly comparable U.S. GAAP measure, operating income but excludes the impact of financing decisions, non-cash depreciation and amortization, and non-cash equity AFUDC.

    AFUDC (Allowance for Funds Used During Construction) is an amount recognized under U.S. GAAP by rate-regulated entities to reflect a return on the equity and debt components of capital invested in construction work in progress.

    About Trans Mountain

    Trans Mountain Corporation (together with its wholly-owned subsidiaries, “Trans Mountain”) operates Canada’s only pipeline system transporting oil products to the West Coast. Trans Mountain is a wholly owned entity of Canada TMP Finance Ltd., a subsidiary of Canada Development Investment Corporation (CDEV), the entity which holds the Government of Canada’s investment in TMC. We have nominal capacity to deliver 890,000 barrels of petroleum products each day through a pipeline system of more than 1,180 kilometres of pipeline in Alberta, British Columbia and 111 kilometres of pipeline in Washington state. Trans Mountain also operates a state-of-the-art loading facility, Westridge Marine Terminal, with three berths providing tidewater access to global markets. As a federal Crown corporation, Trans Mountain continues to build on more than 70 years of experience delivering operational and safety excellence through our crude oil pipeline system. To learn more, visit us at www.transmountain.com.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: May 30th, 2025 Heinrich Leads Letter to the Department of the Interior Inspector General Urging Evaluation of Threats Posed by Workforce Reductions at the Bureau of Reclamation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    Heinrich and Senators to the DOI Acting Inspector General: “We are concerned that the Administration’s actions to gut the agency of qualified public servants could leave critical water infrastructure and communities vulnerable to operational disruptions”
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, led seven Democratic Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee colleagues in a letter urging the U.S. Department of the Interior Acting Inspector General (IG) Caryl Brzymialkiewicz to evaluate the extent to which  the Trump Administration’s workforce reductions at the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) prevent the agency from fulfilling its statutory mission and implementing relevant programs and activities authorized by Congress.
    “Recent reductions in workforce significantly threaten BOR’s ability to safely and reliably deliver water to communities and farmers, keep waterways flowing for fish and wildlife across the western United States, and produce reliable electricity,” the senators began.
    The BOR is the largest wholesale water supplier in the United States – delivering trillions of gallons of water to more than 31 million people. The BOR also is the second largest producer of hydroelectric power in the country. The facilities the BOR operate generate 40 million megawatt-hours of electricity each year.
    According to reports, the BOR has lost 1,400 public servants, around 25 percent of the agency’s entire workforce, since the Administration began its assault on the federal workforce.
    The senators continued, expressing concern over the lack of strategy and harm to public safety that workforce reductions pose, “Rapid reductions to BOR’s workforce raise significant concerns about the Bureau’s ability to meet its core responsibilities, particularly inspecting dams and identifying threats to public safety.”
    “BOR needs experienced personnel with the necessary expertise to manage critical infrastructure. We are concerned that the Administration’s actions to gut the agency of qualified public servants could leave critical water infrastructure and communities vulnerable to operational disruptions,” the senators continued.
    The senators concluded their letter by requesting that the IG evaluate whether recent workforce reductions at BOR inhibit the Bureau from carrying out its obligations.
    The letter is led by Ranking Member Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.). The letter is signed by Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Democratic members U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), and Rueben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.).
    The full text of the letter is here and below:
    Dear Acting Inspector General Brzymialkiewicz:
    We write to request that your office evaluate the extent to which workforce reductions at the Bureau of Reclamation (“Bureau” or “BOR”) prevent the agency from fulfilling its statutory mission and implementing relevant programs and activities authorized by Congress. The Bureau is the largest wholesaler of water in the United States—delivering trillions of gallons of water to more than 31 million people. The Bureau is also the second largest producer of hydroelectric power in the country. The facilities BOR operate generate 40 million megawatt-hours of electricity each year. However, recent reductions in workforce significantly threaten BOR’s ability to safely and reliably deliver water to communities and farmers, keep waterways flowing for fish and wildlife across the western United States, and produce reliable electricity.
    According to reports, BOR has lost 1,400 public servants since the administration began its assault on the federal workforce. The positions reportedly eliminated include mechanics, engineers, and fish biology specialists—personnel with considerable expertise. Through firings of probational workers, buyouts, early retirements, and other related actions, BOR has shrunk by 25 percent. This workforce reduction has lacked a coherent, mission- and safety- driven strategy and instead led to the departure of experienced personnel—some with over 20 years of experience—leaving the Bureau susceptible to operational disruptions.
    Rapid reductions to BOR’s workforce raise significant concerns about the Bureau’s ability to meet its core responsibilities, particularly inspecting dams and identifying threats to public safety. BOR manages over 450 dams throughout 17 western states. Previously, BOR’s dam safety program identified over 300 high and significant hazard dams at more than 200 facilities. The age and complex nature of dam systems necessitates having experienced staff trained in the operation of such systems. In fact, as your office identified in a September 2023 report, approximately 90 percent of BOR’s dams are more than 50 years old and “[a]ging dams increaset he risk of dam failures.” BOR needs experienced personnel with the necessary expertise to manage critical infrastructure. We are concerned that the administration’s actions to gut the agency of qualified public servants could leave critical water infrastructure and communities vulnerable to operational disruptions.
    Your office is responsible for promoting “accountability, integrity, economy, efficiency, and effectiveness within” the DOI and identifying “ways to improve the DOI’s programs and operations by offering specific, actionable recommendations that lead to positive change.” We therefore urge you to evaluate whether recent workforce reductions at BOR inhibit the Bureau from carrying out its obligations.
    Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: May 30th, 2025 Heinrich Invites U.S. Forest Service Chief to Pecos Watershed

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, sent a letter inviting U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz to visit the Upper Pecos Watershed in Northern New Mexico and hear from local leaders, Tribes, community members, farmers, business owners, and recreationists about the importance of protecting the Upper Pecos Watershed from new mining operations.
    “For decades, the community in the Upper Pecos Watershed of New Mexico has been united in an effort to protect the river basin from the very real threat of mine waste pollution. Everyone in the community can agree that the Pecos River is an invaluable lifeline. With headwaters in Northern New Mexico, the Pecos supports a wide range of uses from recreation and agriculture to traditional use by the Pueblos in the area. Unfortunately, this region has a history of poorly managed mining projects,”Heinrich wrote to U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz.
    “The area is still recovering from a devastating 1991 mine spill, which threatened the health and economic survival in the immediate community and for hundreds of miles throughout the state. Thanks to decades of hard work and millions of dollars, this watershed is once again one of the cleanest and most productive in the state – though the remediation is not complete,” Heinrich stated.
    In 1991, a toxic waste spill from a closed mine in the Upper Pecos Watershed caused more than 11 miles of fish kill in the river and required a clean up effort that took decades and millions of dollars to complete. For years, there has been a community-led effort to protect the area from future mining claims to avoid similar threats and pollution.
    In response to a letter sent by Heinrich and the N.M. Congressional Delegation, in December 2024, President Biden’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Forest Service initiated a process to propose a 20-year withdrawal to help secure the region’s water and air quality, cultural resources, critical fish and wildlife habitat, and recreational opportunities. The withdrawal, for lands in San Miguel and Santa Fe counties, encompassed multiple Pecos River tributaries, including Dalton Canyon, Macho Canyon, Wild Horse Creek, Indian Creek, and Doctor Creek.
    On December 16, 2024, the BLM and Forest Service initiated a 90-day public comment period to gather input on the proposal. During the comment period, the two agencies were scheduled to host a public meeting for the proposed Upper Pecos River Watershed Protection Area withdrawal on February 26, 2025. This public meeting was cancelled by the Trump Administration on February 19, 2025, with no further explanation. Despite the cancellation, the Administration received hundreds of public comments in support of the mineral withdrawal.
    On April 7, 2025, reporting from Source New Mexico revealed the Trump Administration plans to reverse the BLM and the Forest Service’s decision to protect the Upper Pecos Watershed from new mining operations.
    “I am concerned by the Forest Service’s decision to reverse the temporary protection and discontinue the process for a longer-term withdrawal. This decision was made without proper community engagement or review of the hundreds of positive comments that were submitted during the public comment period,” Heinrich continued in his letter to Chief Schultz.
    In response to the Trump Administration’s reversal, Heinrich reintroduced his Pecos Watershed Protection Act to permanently withdraw all federally managed minerals in the watershed from development — preventing the leasing, patent, or sale of all publicly owned minerals.
    To continue the effort to protect the Pecos, Heinrich invited Chief Schultz at the end of his letter, writing, “I would like to extend an invitation to you to visit New Mexico and the Pecos area so you can hear firsthand from local leaders, Tribes, community members, farmers, business owners, recreationists, and others while experiencing the beauty of this watershed. While there, you can see why this river is so valuable and witness the very real threat of mining pollution that still exists.”
    At the end of his letter, Heinrich included invitations to Chief Schultz from local and Tribal leaders that show the widespread community support for permanently protecting the Pecos.
    Read the community letter from over 20 local leaders and members of the Hispanic Conservation Leadership Council here.
    Read the invitation from the Pueblo of Jemez here.
    Read the invitation from the Pueblo of Tesuque here.
    Read Heinrich’s full letter here and below:
    Dear Chief Schultz:
    For decades, the community in the Upper Pecos Watershed of New Mexico has been united in an effort to protect the river basin from the very real threat of mine waste pollution. Everyone in the community can agree that the Pecos River is an invaluable lifeline. With headwaters in Northern New Mexico, the Pecos supports a wide range of uses from recreation and agriculture to traditional use by the Pueblos in the area. Unfortunately, this region has a history of poorly managed mining projects. The area is still recovering from a devastating 1991 mine spill, which threatened the health and economic survival in the immediate community and for hundreds of miles throughout the state. Thanks to decades of hard work and millions of dollars, this watershed is once again one of the cleanest and most productive in the state – though the remediation is not complete.
    To New Mexicans who are facing a threat to their way of life and cultural heritage, there is no doubt that this area should be permanently protected. The spill in 1991 left scars on the landscape and with those who depend on the river. We celebrated when the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management announced last year that they would be pursuing a 20-year mineral withdrawal in the basin. The long-overdue action by the last Administration was a major victory for the Pecos Valley.
    However, I am concerned by the Forest Service’s decision to reverse the temporary protection and discontinue the process for a longer-term withdrawal. This decision was made without proper community engagement or review of the hundreds of positive comments that were submitted during the public comment period. The Administration also cancelled a public forum that would have allowed for discussion of the administrative withdrawal and demonstrated to your agency that this community is united by the beauty and health of the Pecos River.
    Therefore, I would like to extend an invitation to you to visit New Mexico and the Pecos area so you can hear firsthand from local leaders, Tribes, community members, farmers, business owners, recreationists, and others while experiencing the beauty of this watershed. While there, you can see why this river is so valuable and witness the very real threat of mining pollution that still exists.
    I am including letters and invites from local and tribal leaders that show the widespread support for this effort in the area. They represent just a few of many examples of community support for protecting the Pecos. Thank you for your attention to this request and I hope I can see you in New Mexico soon.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Video: LIVE: Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth speaks at the Shangri-La Dialogue 2025 in Singapore.

    Source: United States Department of Defense (video statements)

    Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth speaks at the Shangri-La Dialogue 2025 in Singapore, May 30, 2025 (EDT)/May 31, 2025 (Singapore). Hosted by the International Institute for Strategic Studies, the event is an opportunity to discuss the region’s most pressing security challenges and engage in important bilateral talks.

    For more on the Department of Defense, visit: http://www.defense.gov
    —————
    Keep up with the Department of Defense on social media!

    Like the DoD on Facebook: http://facebook.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on Twitter: http://twitter.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on Instagram: http://instagram.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/DeptofDefense

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pk5jHnWABck

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI China: China appoints new director for liaison office of central gov’t in HKSAR

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

    BEIJING, May 30 — China’s State Council announced on Friday that Zhou Ji was appointed director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), and national security adviser to the Committee for Safeguarding National Security of the HKSAR.

    Meanwhile, Zheng Yanxiong was removed from his posts as director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, deputy director of the State Council Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office, and national security adviser to the Committee for Safeguarding National Security of the HKSAR.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Operation Purple – anti-social road user gathering in Levin

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Attributable to Inspector Ash Gurney, Manawatū  Area Prevention Manager:

    Ten people were arrested during a large anti-social road user event in the Levin and Palmerston North areas overnight, which saw five members of the public and two Police officers injured.

    Police were out on the streets overnight with plans in place to keep the gathering in check, including air support from the Police Eagle helicopter, however faced physical attacks on the ground from those present.

    A crowd of around 1000 people gathered in Levin late last night, many performing burnouts and other driving offences.

    Fireworks, physical aggression, and a vehicle were all used against Police who were attempting to break up the gathering. Two Police officers received minor injuries from the fireworks that did not require hospitalisation.

    Five people were arrested at this location and will face Levin District Court in coming days, on disorderly behaviour and driving charges.

    The large group then moved to the State Highway 57/Tavistock Road intersection, where Police were again confronted with more unruly behaviour, including a number of burnouts.

    A pedestrian bystander was hit by a car doing a burnout. People and vehicles blocking the roads delayed an ambulance getting to this person, forcing Police to employ tactical options – including deploying sponge rounds to disperse the crowd- to allow it through.

    During this period, several Police vehicle were damaged and had tyres slashed.

    Police moved this crowd on, which then moved to the intersection of State Highway 56 and Tiakitahuna Road.

    Further burnouts and unsafe driving took place, and four bystanders – aged 16-20 years old – were hit by cars. One female had both of her legs run over. The group were taken to Palmerston North Hospital for treatment for their injuries.

    The Police Eagle helicopter assisted staff on the ground in tracking one of the drivers who hit the bystanders. The 18-year-old man was taken into custody after a lengthy foot pursuit by officers, and he is due in Levin District Court on Tuesday on a range of serious charges.

    Diesel was poured on an intersection in Palmerston North city where the group set up again around 2am – numbers were estimated at around 200 by this stage. The crowd dispersed shortly after the diesel was set alight.

    Several other instances of single vehicles seen doing skids and burnouts in the Levin area were identified by officers over the next hour or so, with the Police Eagle helicopter proving invaluable in giving officers on the ground relevant information.

    “The escalation in the level of violence committed against officers at these events is incredibly reckless and will not be tolerated,” Inspector Gurney says.

    “The fact that members of the public were injured should send a strong warning to people intending to take part or observe – this is dangerous and stupid behaviour which can very easily result in multiple serious injuries or even death.

    “On this occasion, given the size and unruly nature of the crowds involved, it is fortunate no other people were seriously hurt or worse, and that no Police officers were seriously injured,” Inspector Gurney says.

    Police intend to hold everyone identified as having committed an offence to account, with the Eagle helicopter proving vital in helping gather relevant information to help us follow up.

    Officers will have staff deployed from Central District and from Wellington ready to respond to any potential further activity this weekend.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Video: Standing Tall Together

    Source: United States Department of Defense (video statements)

    —————
    @marines assigned to @i_marine_expeditionary_force and the Philippine Marine Corps participate in the annual exercise KAMANDAG aimed at defense and humanitarian capabilities by providing training in combined operations for the advancement of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.

    For more on the Department of Defense, visit: http://www.defense.gov
    —————
    Keep up with the Department of Defense on social media!

    Like the DoD on Facebook: http://facebook.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on Twitter: http://twitter.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on Instagram: http://instagram.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/DeptofDefense

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iaG4ub1nAJ4

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI USA News: MADE IN THE USA: President Trump’s Vision is Revitalizing American Industry

    Source: US Whitehouse

    President Donald J. Trump heads to Pennsylvania today, where he’ll champion the partnership he brokered between U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel — a $14 billion investment that will create at least 70,000 jobs and ensure steel is made in America for decades to come.

    AMERICAN JOBS, AMERICAN STEEL.

    The landmark agreement comes alongside a host of companies from across industries that are onshoring their production and investing in American manufacturing as President Trump relentlessly pursues his America First trade policies.

    Look no further than the automotive industry:

    • Stellantis announced a $5 billion investment in its U.S. manufacturing network, including re-opening its Belvidere, Illinois, plant and a $388 “megahub” in Detroit, Michigan.
    • General Motors announced an $888 million investment at its propulsion plant in Tonawanda, New York.
    • Volkswagen is planning to make a “massive” investment in its U.S. production.
    • Toyota announced it will boost hybrid vehicle production at its West Virginia plant.
    • Mercedes-Benz announced it will add a new vehicle to its Tuscaloosa, Alabama, manufacturing plant.
    • Honda plans to shift production of the Civic from Japan to the U.S.
    • Hyundai announced a $20 billion investment to support its U.S. vehicle production.
    • Kia plans to produce hybrid vehicles at its affiliate Hyundai’s Georgia factory.

    It’s not just the auto industry; scores of others are lining up to invest in America:

    • Project Stargate, led by Japan-based Softbank and U.S.-based OpenAI and Oracle, announced a $500 billion private investment in U.S.-based artificial intelligence infrastructure.
    • Apple announced a $500 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing and training.
    • NVIDIA, a global chipmaking giant, announced it will invest $500 billion in U.S.-based AI infrastructure over the next four years amid its pledge to manufacture AI supercomputers entirely in the U.S. for the first time.
    • IBM announced a $150 billion investment over the next five years in its U.S.-based growth and manufacturing operations.
    • Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) announced a $100 billion investment in U.S.-based chips manufacturing.
    • Johnson & Johnson announced a $55 billion investment over the next four years in manufacturing, research and development, and technology.
    • Roche, a Swiss drug and diagnostics company, announced a $50 billion investment in U.S.-based manufacturing and research and development, which is expected to create more than 12,000 jobs.
    • Bristol Myers Squibb announced a $40 billion investment over the next five years in its research, development, technology, and U.S.-based manufacturing operations.
    • Eli Lilly and Company announced a $27 billion investment to more than double its domestic manufacturing capacity.
    • United Arab Emirates-based ADQ and U.S.-based Energy Capital Partners announced a $25 billion investment in U.S. data centers and energy infrastructure.
    • Novartis, a Swiss drugmaker, announced a $23 billion investment to build or expand ten manufacturing facilities across the U.S., which will create 4,000 new jobs.
    • John Deere announced plans to invest $20 billion over the next decade in American expansion, production, and manufacturing.
    • United Arab Emirates-based DAMAC Properties announced a $20 billion investment in new U.S.-based data centers.
    • France-based CMA CGM, a global shipping giant, announced a $20 billion investment in U.S. shipping and logistics, creating 10,000 new jobs.
    • Sanofi announced it will invest at least $20 billion over the next five years in manufacturing and research and development.
    • Venture Global LNG announced an $18 billion investment at its liquefied natural gas facility in Louisiana.
    • Gilead Sciences announced an $11 billion boost to its planned U.S.-based manufacturing investment.
    • AbbVie announced a $10 billion investment over the next ten years to support volume growth and add four new manufacturing plants to its network.
    • Pratt Industries announced a $5 billion investment to create 5,000 new manufacturing jobs in Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Arizona.
    • GlobalWafers, a Taiwanese silicon wafer manufacturer, announced a $4 billion investment in its U.S.-based production.
    • Thermo Fisher Scientific announced it will invest an additional $2 billion over the next four years to enhance and expand its U.S. manufacturing operations and strengthen its innovation efforts.
    • Merck & Co. announced it will invest a total of $9 billion in the U.S. over the next several years after opening a new $1 billion North Carolina manufacturing facility — including in a new state-of-the-art biologics manufacturing plant in Delaware, which will create at least 500 new jobs.
    • Clarios announced a $6 billion plan to expand its domestic manufacturing operations.
    • In addition to its overall investments, Amazon announced it is investing $4 billion in small towns across America, creating more than 100,000 new jobs and driving opportunities across the country.
    • Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, a leader in biotechnology, announced a $3 billion agreement with Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies to produce drugs at its North Carolina manufacturing facility.
    • Kraft Heinz announced a $3 billion investment to upgrade its U.S. factories — its largest investment in its plants in decades.
    • NorthMark Strategies, a multi-strategy investment firm, announced a $2.8 billion investment to build a supercomputing facility in South Carolina.
    • Kimberly-Clark announced a $2 billion investment to expand its U.S. manufacturing operations, including a new advanced manufacturing facility in Warren, Ohio, an expansion of its Beech Island, South Carolina, facility, and other upgrades to its supply chain network.
    • Chobani, a Greek yogurt giant, announced $1.7 billion to expand its U.S. operations.
      • $1.2 billion to build its third U.S. dairy processing plant in New York, which is expected to create more than 1,000 new full-time jobs.
    • Corning announced it is expanding its Michigan manufacturing facility investment to $1.5 billion, adding 400 new high-paying advanced manufacturing jobs for a total of 1,500 new jobs.
    • Carrier announced an additional $1 billion investment in its U.S. manufacturing, innovation, and workforce expansion, which is expected to create 4,000 new jobs.
    • GE Aerospace announced a $1 billion investment in manufacturing across 16 states — creating 5,000 new jobs.
    • Anduril Industries announced a $1 billion investment for a new autonomous weapon system facility in Ohio.
    • Williams International announced a $1 billion investment for a new high-volume aviation gas turbine engine manufacturing facility in Okaloosa County, Florida.
    • Amgen announced a $900 million investment in its Ohio-based manufacturing operation.
    • Merck Animal Health announced an $895 million investment to expand their manufacturing operations in Kansas.
    • Schneider Electric announced it will invest $700 million over the next four years in U.S. energy infrastructure.
    • GE Vernova announced it will invest nearly $600 million in U.S. manufacturing over the next two years, which will create more than 1,500 new jobs.
    • Abbott Laboratories announced a $500 million investment in its Illinois and Texas facilities.
    • AIP Management, a European infrastructure investor, announced a $500 million investment to solar developer Silicon Ranch.
    • London-based Diageo announced a $415 million investment in a new Alabama manufacturing facility.
    • Lego announced a $366 million investment to build a new distribution center in Prince George County, Virginia.
    • The Bel Group announced a $350 million investment to expand its U.S.-based production, including at its South Dakota, Idaho and Wisconsin facilities — which will create 250 new jobs.
    • Dublin-based Eaton Corporation announced a $340 million investment in a new South Carolina-based manufacturing facility for its three-phase transformers.
    • Anheuser-Busch announced a $300 million investment in its manufacturing facilities across the country.
    • Germany-based Siemens announced a $285 million investment in U.S. manufacturing and AI data centers, which will create more than 900 new skilled manufacturing jobs.
    • Clasen Quality Chocolate announced a $230 million investment to build a new production facility in Virginia, which will create 250 new jobs.
    • Fiserv, Inc., a financial technology provider, announced a $175 million investment to open a new strategic fintech hub in Kansas, which is expected to create 2,000 new high-paying jobs.
    • Paris Baguette announced a $160 million investment to construct a manufacturing plant in Texas.
    • Siemens Healthineers announced a $150 million investment to expand production, including relocating manufacturing operations for its Varian company from Mexico to California. 
    • JBS USA announced a $135 million investment for a new sausage production facility in Perry, Iowa.
    • TS Conductor announced a $134 million investment to build an advanced conductor manufacturing facility in South Carolina, which will create nearly 500 new jobs.
    • Switzerland-based ABB announced a $120 million investment to expand production of its low-voltage electrification products in Tennessee and Mississippi.
    • Saica Group, a Spain-based corrugated packaging maker, announced plans to build a $110 million new manufacturing facility in Anderson, Indiana.
    • Hotpack, a Dubai-based maker of food packaging materials and related products, announced a $100 million investment to establish its first U.S. manufacturing facility in Edison, New Jersey.
    • Charms, LLC, a subsidiary of candymaker Tootsie Roll Industries, announced a $97.7 million investment to expand its production plant and distribution center in Tennessee.
    • Toyota Motor Corporation announced an $88 million investment to boost hybrid vehicle production at its West Virginia factory, securing employment for the 2,000 workers at the factory.
    • AeroVironment, a defense contractor, announced a $42.3 million investment to build a new manufacturing facility in Utah.
    • Paris-based Saint-Gobain announced a new $40 million NorPro manufacturing facility in Wheatfield, New York.
    • India-based Sygene International announced a $36.5 million acquisition of a Baltimore biologics manufacturing facility.
    • Asahi Group Holdings, one of the largest Japanese beverage makers, announced a $35 million investment to boost production at its Wisconsin plant.
    • Valbruna Slater Stainless announced a $28 million investment in its stainless steel and nickel alloys bars manufacturing plant in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
    • Cyclic Materials, a Canadian advanced recycling company for rare earth elements, announced a $20 million investment in its first U.S.-based commercial facility, located in Mesa, Arizona.
    • Guardian Bikes announced a $19 million investment to build the first U.S.-based large-scale bicycle frame manufacturing operation in Indiana.
    • Amsterdam-based AMG Critical Minerals announced a $15 million investment to build a chrome manufacturing facility in Pennsylvania.
    • NOVONIX Limited, an Australia-based battery technology company, announced a $4.6 million investment to build a synthetic graphite manufacturing facility in Tennessee.
    • LGM Pharma announced a $6 million investment to expand its manufacturing facility in Rosenberg, Texas.
    • ViDARR, a defense optical equipment manufacturer, announced a $2.69 million investment to open a new facility in Virginia.

    That doesn’t even include the U.S. investments planned by foreign countries:

    • United Arab Emirates committed to investing $1.4 trillion in the U.S. over the next decade.
    • Qatar committed to generating $1.2 trillion in an economic exchange between the two countries.
    • Japan announced a $1 trillion investment in the U.S.
    • Saudi Arabia committed investing $600 billion in the U.S. over the next four years.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Foreign Nationals Indicted for Directing Interstate Stalking and Harassment Scheme and Conspiring to Procure Sensitive U.S. Military Technology

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, and Bilal Essayli, United States Attorney for the Central District of California announced that federal grand juries in Milwaukee, WI and Los Angeles, CA each returned indictments charging two foreign nationals, Cui Guanghai, 43, of China, and John Miller, 63, of the United Kingdom and a U.S. lawful permanent resident, with interstate stalking and conspiracy to commit interstate stalking (Los Angeles) and conspiracy, smuggling, and violations of the Arms Export Control Act (Milwaukee).

    “As alleged, the defendants targeted a U.S. resident for exercising his constitutional right to free speech and conspired to traffic sensitive American military technology to the Chinese regime,” said Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. “This is a blatant assault on both our national security and our democratic values. This Justice Department will not tolerate foreign repression on U.S. soil, nor will we allow hostile nations to infiltrate or exploit our defense systems. We will act decisively to expose and dismantle these threats wherever they emerge.”

    “The defendants allegedly plotted to harass and interfere with an individual who criticized the actions of the People’s Republic of China while exercising their constitutionally protected free speech rights within the United States of America,” said FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino. “The same individuals also are charged with trying to obtain and export sensitive U.S. military technology to China. I want to commend the good work of the FBI and our partners in the U.S and overseas in putting a stop to these illegal activities.”

    Allegations in the Eastern District of Wisconsin

    According to court documents, beginning in November 2023, Miller and Cui solicited the procurement of U.S. defense articles, including missiles, air defense radar, drones, and cryptographic devices with associated crypto ignition keys for unlawful export from the United States to the People’s Republic of China from two individuals (Individual 5 and Individual 6).   

    In connection with the scheme, Cui and Miller discussed with Individuals 5 and 6 ways to export a cryptographic device from the United States to the People’s Republic of China, including concealing the device in a blender, small electronics, or motor starter, and shipping the device first to Hong Kong. Cui and Miller paid approximately $10,000 as a deposit for the cryptographic device via a courier in the United States and a wire transfer to a U.S. bank account.

    Allegations in the Central District of California

    According to court documents, beginning in October 2023, Cui and Miller enlisted two individuals (Individual 1 and Individual 2) inside the United States to carry out a plot to prevent the Victim from protesting President Xi’s appearance at the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in November 2023. The Victim had previously made public statements in opposition to the policies and actions of the PRC government and President Xi.

    “The indictment alleges that Chinese foreign actors targeted a victim in our nation because he criticized the Chinese government and its president,” said U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California. “My office will continue to use all legal methods available to hold accountable foreign nationals engaging in criminal activity on our soil.”

    Unbeknownst to Cui and Miller, Individual 1 and Individual 2 were affiliated with and acting at the direction of the FBI.

    In the weeks leading up to the APEC summit, Cui and Miller directed and coordinated an interstate scheme to surveil the Victim, to install a tracking device on the Victim’s car, to slash the tires on the Victim’s car, and to purchase and destroy a pair of artistic statues created by the Victim depicting President Xi and President Xi’s wife.

    A similar scheme took place in the spring of 2025, after the Victim announced that he planned to make public an online video feed depicting two new artistic statues of President Xi and his wife. In connection with these plots, Cui and Miller paid two other individuals (Individual 3 and Individual 4), approximately $36,500 to convince the Victim to desist from the online display of the statues. Unbeknownst to Cui and Miller, Individual 3 and Individual 4 were also affiliated with and acting at the direction of the FBI.

    If convicted, Cui and Miller face the following maximum penalties: five years for conspiracy; five years for interstate stalking; twenty years for violation of the Arms Export Control Act; ten years for smuggling.

    The FBI is investigating the case.  The United States is coordinating with Serbian authorities regarding the pending extraditions of Cui and Miller in Serbia.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Benjamin Taibleson for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, and David Ryan and Amanda B. Elbogen for the Central District of California, along with Trial Attorneys Leslie Esbrook and Menno Goedman of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the cases, with valuable assistance provided by the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    # # #

    For Additional Information Contact:

    Public Information Officer

    Kenneth.Gales@usdoj.gov

    414-297-1700

    Follow us on Twitter

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Environment and Politics – Luxon Government to favour dairy pollution at the expense of drinking water

    Source: Greenpeace

    Luxon’s Government is once again putting corporate profits ahead of people’s health by proposing freshwater policies that will drive more dairy pollution at the expense of safe drinking water and swimmable rivers.
    The proposed changes to the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management, announced today, include giving more favour to corporate uses of water like intensive dairy. This fundamentally undermines Te Mana O Te Wai, the framework that prioritises the health of freshwater ecosystems and the health of community drinking water ahead of corporate uses of water.
    Greenpeace Aotearoa freshwater campaigner Will Appelbe says, “Safe drinking water requires healthy freshwater ecosystems, and that should always be the priority. But today’s decision will drive more water contamination, especially in rural communities.”
    “Make no mistake, this will facilitate dairy expansion, and we know what that means for the country. More cows means more pollution from effluent and fertiliser, poisoning waterways with nitrate and nasty pathogens.”
    “Just this year, several new dairy expansion consents have been approved in Canterbury, where many communities are facing a drinking water crisis as a result of nitrate contamination from intensive dairy.”
    “The Government is meant to be protecting the health of communities, not lining the pockets of corporate polluters. We’ve already seen the influence the agriculture lobby has had over the rollback of freshwater protections last year, and this announcement today demonstrates how much of a hold lobbyists have over Luxon and his Cabinet.”
    “But communities are ready to fight for clean drinking water and swimmable rivers, even if Luxon won’t. It’s more important than ever that local governments – like Environment Canterbury, which has responsibility over the majority of New Zealand’s freshwater ecosystems – step up and take real action to protect lakes, rivers, and drinking water.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Porirua City Council to launch pilot Waste Minimisation Grant scheme

    Source: Porirua City Council

    A pilot scheme offering grants to Porirua projects that enable waste minimisation in the city was approved at a full Porirua City Council meeting this morning.
    Starting in the 2025/26 financial year, part of the funds received by Porirua City Council from the Waste Levy Subsidy will be used to provide community grants to groups with projects that will encourage reuse, repurposing and recycling capacity in the city.
    The scheme will initially run as a 12-month pilot to gauge the level of demand and the types of projects sought.
    There will be two levels of funding available for projects. The first will be grants of up to $30,000 that will become available in a single application round.
    The second will be grants of up to $2000 which can be applied for year round.
    Establishing this grant is part of the enacting Porirua City’s 2023-29 Waste Management and Minimisation Plan.
    Porirua City Councillor Geoff Hayward, who represents Porirua City on the Wellington Region Waste Management and Minimisation Joint Committee, says this scheme will empower communities in the city.
    “It’s the kind of initiative that reflects the best of what local government can do. It’s backing communities to lead solutions using existing levers wisely.
    “It will reduce pressure on rates and support our goal to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill.”
    Waste minimisation initiatives could include new projects that reduce waste at the source and encourage movement towards a circular economy.
    Projects that focus on reduction, redesign, reuse, repair and repurpose will also be considered.
    “We want to see initiatives that create new opportunities and encourage community participation in waste minimisation,” says Councillor Hayward.
    Porirua Mayor Anita Baker says this is a positive move for waste reduction in Porirua.
    “This is another way that we can work towards making our communities more healthy and encourage more people to get involved in positive outcomes.”
    The grant scheme will now be developed with more information to come once the details have been finalised.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: NZ Currency – 10 cent coin with King Charles III image now in production – Reserve Bank

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

    29 May 2025 – The Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua has quality checked and approved the 10 cent coin with the effigy of King Charles III, King of New Zealand (KCIII), for production and New Zealanders can expect to see it in their change around 2027.

    Photos of the quality checking were released today giving people the first look at the actual coin.

    “We received pre-production samples of the coin to check and approve before starting the full production run. We check the coins for quality, weight, size, security properties and that they match the design we ordered,” says Ian Woolford, Director of Money and Cash – Tari Moni Whai Take.

    2024 is stamped on the coin which is the year RBNZ placed the order with the Royal Canadian Mint. New Zealand does not have a mint, so our coins are produced overseas.

    The King’s effigy was designed for the Royal Mint by illustrator and designer Dan Thorne to be used on all New Zealand’s coins. The Royal Numismatic Society of New Zealand provided advice on the 10 cent coin before it went into production. The King faces to the left in keeping with the convention that the direction changes between sovereigns.

    “The reverse (or tails) side of the 10 cent coin still features an image of a koruru – the carved face on the gable of a meeting house – designed by James Berry as a part of the 1967 decimal coin series,” says Mr Woolford.

    “All existing circulating coins, and $20 banknotes, bearing images of Queen Elizabeth II continue to be legal tender. We order notes and coins infrequently and do not plan to destroy stock or withdraw them early from circulation as this would be wasteful and poor environmental practice.”

    Minting the 20 cent, 50 cent, $1 and $2 coins with the KCIII image is likely to be around 2027. Coins then typically enter circulation around two years after production.

    “Updating our currency with the new sovereign takes several years because we always hold sufficient stock to deal with demand spikes or supply issues. We make enough coins and banknotes just in case – not just in time,” says Mr Woolford.

    “We will let everyone know when the KCIII coins are due to enter circulation as the time nears.”

    Banks, retailers, consumers and anyone using or handling cash will not need to do anything differently when we introduce the coins bearing the image of the King. We will work with the cash industry to make sure there are no glitches with cash handling machines like self-service checkouts, vending and change machines accepting and issuing the new and old coins.
     

    More information

    King Charles III coin: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=65f32a7e75&e=f3c68946f8

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tertiary Education – Te Pūkenga continues strong growth in international education amidst ongoing sector change

    Source: Te Pukenga

    Thursday 29 May 2025 – Te Pūkenga continues strong growth in international education amidst ongoing sector change
    Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology continues its growth trajectory in international student numbers, with enrolments, revenue, and international partnerships, all increasing strongly.
    Te Pūkenga Chief Executive Gus Gilmore acknowledged the hard work of staff in achieving the results which include increases in international student numbers from 2,861 EFTS at the end of 2022, when polytechnics transitioned into Te Pūkenga, to 6,873 EFTS at year end 2024. At the same time, international revenue has increased nearly 60% from 2023 to 2025.
    “Despite ongoing changes and uncertainty for our staff including almost 18 months of working towards disestablishment of Te Pūkenga and working to stand-up new entities, our international student numbers increased almost 30% between 2023 and 2024. This year so far, we are growing at 10.5% compared to last year.”
    While international revenue was $187 million pre-Covid, it dropped to $47.5m million in 2022 post-pandemic. Te Pūkenga then accelerated the big task of building back from pandemic disruptions and border closures with revenue rebounding to $136 million in 2024. The 2025 forecast is $159 million.
    “To be within less than 15% striking distance of pre-Covid numbers given the massive change the sector has been going through is a testament to the hard work of our teams, the quality of our programmes, growing global recognition of the importance of applied learning, and the strength of our institutes of technology and polytechnic brands offshore.”
    International student growth is occurring throughout the country, including in the regions. This includes MIT up 25% (82 EFTS), Unitec up 20% (176 EFTS), Wintec up 44% (213 EFTS), Toi Ohomai up 13% (60 EFTS), NMIT up 30% (60 EFTS), and Ara up 16% (57 EFTS).
    “Our focus continues to be on the delivery of quality education for all our students while supporting our divisions to promote the New Zealand vocational education and training sector offshore. As part of this, we are working with government agencies and sector stakeholders on building a stronger New Zealand brand for applied learning globally, and addressing immigration challenges so we can reduce barriers for international students choosing New Zealand as their study destination of choice,” says Mr Gilmore.
    In addition, Te Pūkenga continues to actively expand and secure new institutional arrangements with partners from across the globe, including with international governments. These partnerships are critical pipelines for ongoing growth in student enrolments as well as broader education cooperation and sector resilience.
    “These arrangements lay the groundwork for sustained future growth through mutual academic collaboration, academic exchange and student mobility. Critically, they strengthen our standing and reputation as a vocational education and training partner and destination, contributing to the revitalisation of New Zealand’s international education sector and economy.”
    The large majority of international students across Te Pūkenga divisions come from Asia with India (49%), Sri Lanka (11%), and China (10%) the top three markets. We are also working to diversify student market sources.
    “International students make a significant contribution socially and culturally to our institutes, campuses and student body. The international connections and understanding they help build are invaluable for a small island nation dependent on international trade and investment.”
    The contribution of international student revenue to financial viability is increasingly more important as institutes of technology and polytechnic divisions are stood up as independent entities from January 2026.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: EMA Statement – RMA Announcements on Right Track

    Source: EMA

    Today’s Resource Management Act (RMA) changes announced by Ministers Bishop, McClay and Watts, are a significant step forward in making the building and connection of networks and critical infrastructure much easier, says the Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA).
    “Creating firm national direction through National Policy Statements and National Environmental Standards, which consenting councils then have to follow, simplifies the process for construction, maintenance and renewal of electricity and telecommunications networks,” says EMA Head of Advocacy, Alan McDonald.
    “In addition, making the consenting of new quarries and expansion of existing sources of aggregate easier is also critical to any plans to build new infrastructure. From building a simple family home to multi-billion dollar construction projects, you’ve got to have aggregate.
    “The existing rules are far too restrictive and difficult to navigate.”
    The steps announced today are part of the government’s RMA 2 changes, and are now going out for consultation. They will also feature in the RMA 3 legislation expected to be passed next year. While quite technical, the changes go a long way to easing consenting in those sectors, without easing environmental protections.
    “Councils have to give effect to these national directives, and that will effectively end the multiple differing interpretations and standards that councils, often within the same region, apply to current RMA legislation,” says McDonald. 
    “Many of our members have to navigate different rules from different councils just to do the same thing.”
    Proposed changes to freshwater regulations were also announced, while housing policy changes are also on the way.
    “I’m sure our farmers will welcome many of those changes, as will the quarrying industry which has run afoul of very strict changes to wetland definitions that effectively stopped quarrying on some existing sites,” says McDonald. 
    “We’re aware of instances in the Auckland region where water running out of native bush areas, in theory, has to be cleaner when it leaves the farm than when it entered the property.”  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local Politics – Te Whatanui Leka Skipwith Announces Candidacy for Māori Ward in Rotorua Local Body Elections Rotorua, Aotearoa

    Source: Te Whatanui Leka Skipwith

    Te Whatanui Leka Skipwith, a dedicated kaitiaki and staunch advocate for the protection of Rotokākahi, yesterday announced his candidacy for the Māori ward in the upcoming Rotorua local body elections.

    Driven by the unwavering support, guidance, and leadership of his whānau and hapū, Skipwith is stepping forward to bring about systemic change from within – challenging the very structures that have historically enabled poor planning, flawed decision-making, and the exclusion of mana whenua voices.

    “The ongoing fight to protect Rotokākahi has shown me how broken the system can be when mana whenua are not properly consulted,” said Skipwith. “This isn’t just about the environment – it’s about justice, equity, and honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi in real, practical ways.”

    Skipwith sees his candidacy not only as a continuation of the fight to protect Rotokākahi, but as a new avenue to ensure that this never happens again. “This is another step in safeguarding the mauri of Rotokākahi – and in time, we must also find a way forward to remove the pipe entirely. That is part of the vision – restoration, not just protection.”

    A key focus of his campaign will be building a genuine, enduring partnership between council and all iwi – not just select individuals or groups. This vision includes a Whakamana approach: iwi-led and council-supported solutions that address some of Rotorua’s most pressing social challenges.

    “If we whakamana iwi, then we can also whakamana our people – especially our homeless whānau who deserve better pathways to stable housing, support, and dignity,” he added.

    Skipwith also emphasised the importance of creating opportunities for rangatahi, including access to employment, education, and training. “Our rangatahi are the future of our whānau and hapū. Supporting them into mahi, further study or upskilling is how we strengthen our communities from the roots up.”

    With deep connections to Rotorua and a fierce commitment to protecting whenua, taonga, and people, Te Whatanui Leka Skipwith’s campaign is a call for action, accountability, and authentic partnership.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Housing Market – Cotality First home buyer activity strong, but entering market later

    Source: Cotality

    Cotality-Westpac NZ First Home Buyer Report draws on Cotality’s extensive housing market data, as well as Westpac’s information about borrowers, to offer fresh insight into the purchasing behaviours, property preferences and financial profiles of New Zealand’s first-time home buyers (FHBs).
    The report shows the number of first home buyers has picked up in recent years, accounting for nearly 25% of all property purchases across the country between January and April 2025 — well above the long-term average of 21–22%.
    It also found that the average age of first home buyers in New Zealand is rising, with new data showing Auckland buyers now average 37 years old, 36 in Wellington, and 35 in Christchurch — each around two to three years older than in 2019.
    “This shift partly reflects conscious lifestyle choices — such as travelling, building careers, or starting families — but housing affordability remains a key factor,” said Westpac NZ Senior Economist Satish Ranchhod.
    “Even with prices well below their 2022 peak, getting onto the property ladder still takes time, especially in larger centres like Auckland where prices tend to be higher.”
    Despite this later entry into the market, FHBs are currently getting more bang for their buck.
    More than 75% of FHB purchases so far in 2025 have been standalone houses — the highest share since 2020 — and the median price paid has held steady at $700,000, unchanged from the past two years and lower than 2022’s $719,000.
    “First home buyers may be older, but they’re entering the market with a clear plan and strong decision-making,” said Cotality Chief Property Economist Kelvin Davidson.
    “They’re capitalising on their ability to tap into KiwiSaver, abundant listings, modest price growth and accessible finance to secure better homes in many cases. Making full use of the low-deposit lending allowances at the banks is another support for FHBs.”
    “The big drop in interest rates over the past year has been a key factor that’s helped more New Zealanders into their first home,” said Ranchhod.
    “Fixed mortgage interest rates are now around 170 to 200 bps lower than this time last year. For those buying an averaged priced first home, those lower interest rates could cut their monthly mortgage costs by around $800.”
    Townhouses have made up 18% of FHB purchases to date in 2025, a higher share than among all buyers (15%), while only 2% of FHBs bought apartments and 3% opted for lifestyle blocks — compared to 6% in each category across the wider market.
    The data also confirms that many FHBs are not entering at the bottom rung: while the FHB median price is lower than the overall buyer median of $780,000, it is significantly higher than the lower quartile of $585,000.
     
    Spotlight on the main centres
    Looking at New Zealand’s major cities, FHB activity has been elevated across the board.
    The wider Wellington area leads the way, with FHBs accounting for 36% of purchases so far in 2025 — around 7 percentage points above the area’s long-term average. 
    Hamilton follows closely at 30%, with Dunedin at 28%, Auckland 27%, and Christchurch 26%. Tauranga, while slightly lower at 21%, still sits about 4 points above its historical norm.
    Standalone houses continue to be the dominant purchase type in most main centres.
    In Dunedin, 90% of FHBs have bought standalone homes this year, with Hamilton and Tauranga both close behind at 89%. However, the share is comparatively lower in Auckland (64% vs an average of 67%), Wellington (67% vs 73%), and Christchurch (66% vs 77%) — likely reflecting both greater availability and affordability of smaller dwellings, including townhouses and apartments.
    Price data reinforces the trend that first home buyers are typically entering the market above the lower rungs but below the peak.
    In Auckland, the median FHB price so far in 2025 is $903,000 — $127,000 below the all-buyer median, but $114,000 above the lower quartile. FHB median prices are $767,000 in Tauranga, $740,000 in Wellington, $705,000 in Hamilton, and lower again in Christchurch and Dunedin.
     
    Looking ahead
    Cotality projects that national property sales will increase from 82,000 in 2024 to around 92,000 in 2025, with modest growth in values over the calendar year – perhaps 5% or a bit above. Although FHBs may see their market share edge down later in the year as other buyer groups re-enter the market, the total number of first home purchases is expected to rise.
    “Market conditions continue to favour first home buyers — from abundant listings and pricing power, to accessible finance and the ability to use KiwiSaver towards a deposit,” Davidson said.
    “While challenges remain, the opportunity to buy better for less is firmly within reach. It’s true that paying rent is generally cheaper than a mortgage, and it’s never easy to get that first home. But the security of tenure provided by owner-occupier clearly remains a strong motivation for first home buyers.”
     
    About Cotality
    We accelerate data, insights and workflows across the property ecosystem to enable industry professionals to surpass their ambitions and impact society. With billions of data signals across the life cycle of a property, we unearth hidden risks and transformative opportunities for agents, lenders, insurers, governments and innovators.
     
    About Westpac NZ
    Westpac NZ is one of the country’s biggest banks. As a large New Zealand business and employer, we touch the lives of around 1.5 million customers, 5,000 employees and communities nationwide. Getting more customers into their first homes sooner is a priority for us.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Wine Sector – APPELLATION MARLBOROUGH WINE UNVEILS GROUNDBREAKING INTERACTIVE WINE MAP

    Source: Appellation Marlborough Wine

    APPELLATION MARLBOROUGH WINE UNVEILS GROUNDBREAKING INTERACTIVE WINE MAP

    Digital Platform Revolutionises Understanding of New Zealand’s Premier Wine Region
    Marlborough, New Zealand, May 2025 – Appellation Marlborough Wine (AMW) today launches its highly anticipated Interactive Wine Map of Marlborough, a cutting-edge digital platform set to transform how wine professionals and enthusiasts experience the region’s diverse terroir. 
    This innovative tool elevates the original Wine Map of Marlborough, created by the Marlborough Wine Map Collective, into an immersive digital experience that brings the region’s unique characteristics to life.
    Developed through a strategic partnership with Marlborough-based geospatial experts MapHQ, the interactive map offers unprecedented insights into the factors that define Marlborough’s world-renowned wines. Users can explore distinct subregions through interactive layers revealing critical terroir elements-topography, rainfall, temperature, and soil composition-all enhanced with photography and expert commentary from leading winemakers and viticulturists.
    Sophie Parker-Thomson MW, Chair of Appellation Marlborough Wine, explains the significance of this digital milestone:
    “The AMW interactive map represents a quantum leap in communicating Marlborough’s diverse wine story. For the first time, we are offering a dynamic, visual exploration of how our distinctive subregions and microclimates stylistically contribute to our wines. It’s an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of what makes the Marlborough wine region, and the AMW certified wines produced here, so exceptional.”
    Rob Besaans, Founder of MapHQ, highlights the technical innovation behind the project: “Partnering with AMW to create this digital platform has been an inspiring journey. Together, we’ve developed a tool that truly showcases the diversity and depth of Marlborough’s wine-growing region.”
    “Users can seamlessly transition between different data visualisations, revealing the complex interplay of factors that influence Marlborough wines.”
    The Interactive Wine Map of Marlborough is now freely accessible on the AMW website, highlighting AMW’s continued innovation and commitment to showcasing the remarkable diversity and quality of Appellation Marlborough wines to global audiences.
    Experience the Interactive Wine Map at www.appellationmarlboroughwine.co.nz/map
    ABOUT APPELLATION MARLBOROUGH WINE
    Established in 2018, Appellation Marlborough Wine™ safeguards the integrity, authenticity, and global reputation of Marlborough wines. Wines bearing the AMW certification mark provide guarantees of:
    – Origin – Made exclusively from 100% Marlborough-grown grapes from a delimited viticultural area.
    – Authenticity – Bottled in New Zealand to preserve regional integrity and quality.
    – Quality – Quality parameters such as minimum ripeness levels and certification through an independent blind tasting process to ensure typicity and quality.
    – Sustainability – Produced from vineyards certified by a recognised sustainable viticulture scheme.
    With over fifty-five members, AMW is dedicated to protecting the future of Marlborough’s iconic wine region.
    ABOUT MapHQ
    MapHQ leverages years of geospatial insights and expertise to simplify mapping with an intuitive no-code platform. Our solution transforms complex geographic data into compelling visual experiences, empowering businesses of all sizes to enhance strategy, marketing, and operations through impactful, custom location-based insights.
    For more information, visit www.maphq.app.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News