Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
China, ASEAN fully complete negotiations on CAFTA 3.0
BEIJING, May 21 — China and the ten ASEAN countries have fully completed negotiations on the Version 3.0 China-ASEAN Free Trade Area (CAFTA), the Ministry of Commerce announced on Wednesday.
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) in collaboration with the Embassies of France and Costa Rica, organized the “Second Blue Talks” on Tuesday in New Delhi. This high-level event marked a significant step in the lead-up to the Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), which is scheduled to be held in Nice, France, from June 9 to 13.
Building on the success of the first Blue Talks in February 2024, this second edition brought together a wide array of participants, including scientists, policymakers, industry leaders, academics, and representatives from civil society. The event provided a platform to accelerate action and forge concrete commitments towards the sustainable use and protection of ocean resources, aligning closely with Sustainable Development Goal 14 and the broader objectives of the UN Ocean Decade.
The core discussions of the Second Blue Talks centered on conserving and restoring marine and coastal ecosystems, enhancing ocean science and education, reducing marine pollution originating from land-based activities, and strengthening the interconnection between oceans, climate, and biodiversity. These topics formed the foundation of a dynamic stakeholder consultation session designed to generate innovative, long-term strategies for ocean sustainability.
The event was chaired by Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, and co-chaired by Néstor Baltodano Vargas, Ambassador of Costa Rica to India, and Damien Syed, Deputy Head of Mission at the French Embassy. In his address, Dr. Ravichandran emphasized the importance of prioritizing comprehensive ocean resource mapping, adopting cutting-edge technologies, and investing in human capital to achieve the goals of SDG 14 and the UN Ocean Decade. Ambassador Vargas highlighted the significance of such dialogues in deepening cooperation among nations for sustainable ocean governance.
A central highlight of the event was the launch of a white paper titled “Transforming India’s Blue Economy: Investment, Innovation and Sustainable Growth.” Developed in collaboration with a strategic knowledge partner, the document outlines a strategic framework to align national efforts, encourage investment, and foster cross-sectoral collaboration. The paper emphasizes the economic and ecological potential of India’s marine resources, supported by the active involvement of 25 central ministries and various coastal states and union territories. These efforts build upon commitments made during India’s G20 Presidency and the Chennai High-Level Principles for a Sustainable and Resilient Blue Economy.
The report not only acknowledges substantial progress across sectors but also points out key challenges such as limited inter-agency data sharing, inadequate private investment, and technological gaps in areas like offshore wind energy and deep-sea exploration. It offers practical solutions and presents scalable models from across India, such as women-led seaweed farming, smart port development, and eco-friendly ship recycling initiatives that illustrate the synergy between economic development and environmental conservation.
(Inputs from PIB)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Hong Kong Museum of Art (HKMoA) of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department has been well received by the local public and tourists. Today (May 21), the museum welcomed its 5 000 000th visitor since its expansion and reopening in 2019.
To mark this extraordinary moment, the HKMoA arranged a special souvenir – a porcelain plate designed from the museum’s collection – which was presented by the Director of Leisure and Cultural Services, Ms Manda Chan, and an exclusive guided tour by the Museum Director of the HKMoA, Dr Maria Mok, for the 5 000 000th visitor. The visitor is Anabelle Champagne, a university student and tourist from Canada. It is the first time she and her friend have visited the HKMoA. She is interested in traditional art and she thinks the HKMoA has rich and diverse collections.
With its modern architectural features and rich collections, the HKMoA has become one of Hong Kong’s cultural landmarks and a popular tourist attraction. It has been listed three times among the 100 most popular art museums in the world by the international art publication “The Art Newspaper” in 2022, 2024 and 2025. In 2024, the HKMoA recorded a total of over 1.76 million visitors, with an increase of over 40 per cent compared to 2023. Local visitors, as well as visitors from Mainland China and overseas, each accounted for one-third of the total audience. Among them, one-third had visited the museum more than once, reflecting the HKMoA’s strong appeal as a destination worth revisiting. More than 60 per cent were young visitors under the age of 30.
Established in 1962, the HKMoA is the first public art museum in Hong Kong and the custodian of an art collection of over 19 500 sets of items, representing the unique cultural legacy of Hong Kong’s connections across the globe. By curating a wide world of contrasts, from old to new, Chinese to Western, local to international, with a Hong Kong viewpoint, the museum aspires to refreshing ways of looking at tradition and making art relevant to everyone, creating new experiences and understanding.
The HKMoA will continue to spare no effort in fulfilling its mission, serving as a bridge between Chinese and Western cultures to facilitate Hong Kong’s fulfilment of its positioning as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchanges under the National 14th Five-Year Plan. For details of the HKMoA’s new exhibitions, please visit the museum’s websites (hk.art.museum/en/web/ma/home.html), Instagram page (www.instagram.com/hkmoa) and Facebook page (www.facebook.com/hkmoa).
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Legislative amendments which seek to implement the latest requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) for the safe transport of dangerous goods (DG) by air will be gazetted on Friday (May 23) for tabling in the Legislative Council on May 28, and targeted for commencement on July 18, 2025.
The Air Navigation (Hong Kong) Order 1995 (Amendment of Schedule 16) Order 2025 and the Dangerous Goods (Consignment by Air) (Safety) Regulations (Amendment of Schedule) Order 2025 serve to incorporate the ICAO’s latest requirements in the local legislation. Such requirements are set out in a new edition (i.e. the 2025-2026 edition) of the ICAO’s Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air (Technical Instructions).
Some of the updated provisions introduced by the new edition of the Technical Instructions include:
(a) A requirement to indicate on the DG transport document the dimensions of packages containing certain radioactive materials has been added to facilitate cargo loading procedures;
(b) A note specifying DG allowed for carriage by passengers has been relocated to better reflect its applicability; and
(c) Some changes to the technical requirements on the classification, packing, marking and labelling of certain kinds of DG for carriage by air have been incorporated.
“The aviation industry is supportive to the legislative amendments which aim to enhance the safe carriage of DG by air,” a spokesperson for the Transport and Logistics Bureau said.
DG, in the context of air transport, include explosives, compressed gas, flammable liquids, flammable solids, oxidising substances, toxic substances, infectious substances, radioactive materials and corrosives.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
SHANGHAI, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bilibili Inc. (“Bilibili” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BILI and HKEX: 9626), an iconic brand and a leading video community for young generations in China, today announced the proposed offering (the “Notes Offering”) of US$500 million in aggregate principal amount of convertible senior notes due 2030 (the “Notes”), subject to market conditions and other factors, only to persons reasonably believed to be qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). The Company intends to grant the initial purchasers in the Notes Offering an option to purchase up to an additional US$75 million principal amount of the Notes, exercisable for settlement within a 30-day period beginning on, and including, the date on which the Notes are first issued.
The Company plans to use the net proceeds from the Notes Offering to enhance its content ecosystem to facilitate user growth, facilitate IP asset creation, and unleash its inherent potential. The Company also plans to use the net proceeds from the Notes Offering to improve its overall monetization efficiency, fund the Concurrent Repurchase (as defined below), fund future repurchases (from time to time) under its share repurchase program, and for other general corporate purposes.
When issued, the Notes will be senior, unsecured obligations of the Company. The Notes will mature on June 1, 2030, unless repurchased, redeemed or converted in accordance with their terms prior to such date. Holders may convert their Notes at their option at any time prior to the close of business on the seventh scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity date. Upon conversion, the Company will cause to be delivered the Company’s Class Z ordinary shares, par value US$0.0001 per share. Holders may elect to receive the Company’s American depositary shares (“ADS”), each representing one Class Z ordinary share, in lieu of Class Z ordinary shares deliverable upon conversion, subject to certain procedures and conditions set forth in the terms of the notes. The interest rate, initial conversion rate and other terms of the Notes will be determined at the time of pricing of the Notes.
The Company may redeem for cash all or any part of the Notes on or after June 6, 2028 if the last reported sale price of the Class Z ordinary shares has been at least 130% of the conversion price for the Notes then in effect for at least 20 trading days, whether or not consecutive, during any 30 consecutive trading day period preceding the date on which the Company provides notice of redemption (including the last trading day of such period) ending on, and including, the trading day immediately preceding the date on which the Company provides notice of redemption (the “Optional Redemption”). In addition, the Company may redeem for cash all but not part of the Notes at any time if less than 10% of the aggregate principal amount of Notes originally issued remains outstanding at such time (the “Cleanup Redemption”). The Company may also redeem the Notes upon the occurrence of certain tax-related events (the “Tax Redemption”). Holders of the Notes may require the Company to repurchase for cash all or part of their Notes in cash on June 1, 2028, or in the event of certain fundamental changes. In connection with certain corporate events or if the Company issues a notice of Optional Redemption, Cleanup Redemption or Tax Redemption, it will, under certain circumstances, increase the conversion rate for holders who elect to convert their Notes in connection with such corporate event or such Optional Redemption, Cleanup Redemption or Tax Redemption.
Concurrently with the Notes Offering, a certain number of the Company’s Class Z ordinary shares are proposed to be borrowed from third parties and offered in a separate underwritten offering by Goldman Sachs (Asia) L.L.C. and Morgan Stanley Asia Limited (the “Underwriters”), each acting severally on behalf of itself and/or its respective affiliates (the “Concurrent Delta Offering”). The Underwriters will use the resulting short position to facilitate hedging transactions by certain investors subscribing for the Notes, who employ a convertible arbitrage strategy (the “Convertible Arbitrage Investors”). The Company has been advised that each Underwriter is concurrently entering into privately negotiated derivative transactions relating to the Class Z ordinary shares, enabling Convertible Arbitrage Investors to establish their initial short positions in the Class Z ordinary shares to hedge market risk in the Notes. The number of Class Z ordinary shares subject to the Concurrent Delta Offering will be determined at the time of pricing of the Concurrent Delta Offering, and is expected to generally correspond to such initial short positions of the Convertible Arbitrage Investors. No new Class Z ordinary shares will be issued in the Concurrent Delta Offering. Any securities sold in the Concurrent Delta Offering will be offered and sold through a concurrent SEC-registered offering pursuant to a separate prospectus supplement and an accompanying base prospectus. The Company will not receive any proceeds from the Concurrent Delta Offering. The Notes Offering and the Concurrent Delta Offering are contingent upon each other.
The Company also intends to purchase a number of its Class Z ordinary shares offered in the Concurrent Delta Offering for an amount expected to be up to US$100 million at the offering price (the “Concurrent Repurchase”) pursuant to its existing share repurchase program.
The Company will use part of the proceeds from the Notes Offering for the Concurrent Repurchase. The Concurrent Repurchase enables investors to establish some of their initial short positions in the Class Z ordinary shares to hedge market risk in the Notes and reflects the Company’s confidence in its long-term strategy and growth. The repurchased shares will be cancelled. It is generally expected that the Concurrent Repurchase will help offset some of the potential dilution for the Company’s shareholders upon conversion of the Notes.
Other Matters
The Notes, the Class Z ordinary shares deliverable upon conversion of the Notes or the ADSs deliverable in lieu thereof, have not been registered under the Securities Act, or any state securities laws. They may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. persons, except in reliance on the exemption from registration under the Securities Act.
This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any of these securities, nor shall there be a sale of the securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful.
This press release contains information about the pending Notes Offering, and there can be no assurance that the Notes Offering will be completed.
Safe Harbor Statement
This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “aims,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident,” “potential,” “continue,” or other similar expressions. Among other things, the terms of the Notes, whether the Company will complete the Notes Offering, a description of various hedging activities, and statements about Bilibili’s beliefs and expectations, contain forward-looking statements. Bilibili may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its interim and annual reports to shareholders, in announcements, circulars or other publications made on the website of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Hong Kong Stock Exchange”), in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Bilibili’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: results of operations, financial condition, and stock price; Bilibili’s strategies; Bilibili’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Bilibili’s ability to retain and increase the number of users, members and advertising customers, provide quality content, products and services, and expand its product and service offerings; competition in the online entertainment industry; Bilibili’s ability to maintain its culture and brand image within its addressable user communities; Bilibili’s ability to manage its costs and expenses; PRC governmental policies and regulations relating to the online entertainment industry, general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. All information provided in this announcement and in the attachments is as of the date of the announcement, and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.
About Bilibili Inc.
Bilibili is an iconic brand and a leading video community with a mission to enrich the everyday lives of young generations in China. Bilibili offers a wide array of video-based content with All the Videos You Like as its value proposition. Bilibili builds its community around aspiring users, high-quality content, talented content creators and the strong emotional bonds among them. Bilibili pioneered the “bullet chatting” feature, a live comment function that has transformed our users’ viewing experience by displaying the thoughts and feelings of audience members viewing the same video. The Company has now become the welcoming home of diverse interests among young generations in China and the frontier for promoting Chinese culture across the world.
For more information, please visit: http://ir.bilibili.com.
For investor and media inquiries, please contact:
In China:
Bilibili Inc.
Juliet Yang
Tel: -86-21-2509-9255 Ext. 8523
Email: ir@bilibili.com
Piacente Financial Communications
Helen Wu
Tel: -86-10-6508-0677
Email: bilibili@tpg-ir.com
In the United States:
Piacente Financial Communications
Brandi Piacente
Tel: -1-212-481-2050
Email: bilibili@tpg-ir.com
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
SHANGHAI, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bilibili Inc. (“Bilibili” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BILI and HKEX: 9626), an iconic brand and a leading video community for young generations in China, today announced a separate SEC-registered underwritten offering of its Class Z ordinary shares, par value US$0.0001 per share (the “Concurrent Delta Offering”).
Concurrently with such offering, the Company announced the proposed offering (the “Notes Offering”) of US$500 million in aggregate principal amount of convertible senior notes due 2030 (the “Notes”) pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The proposed Notes Offering is subject to market conditions and other factors. The Company intends to grant the initial purchasers in the Notes Offering a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional US$75 million in principal amount of the Notes. The Company plans to use the net proceeds from the Notes Offering to enhance its content ecosystem to facilitate user growth, facilitate IP asset creation, and unleash its inherent potential. The Company also plans to use the net proceeds from the Notes Offering to improve its overall monetization efficiency, fund the Concurrent Repurchase (as defined below), fund future repurchases (from time to time) under its share repurchase program, and for other general corporate purposes.
In connection with the offering of the Notes, the Company announced the Concurrent Delta Offering, under which certain number of the Company’s Class Z ordinary shares are proposed to be borrowed from third parties and offered in a separate underwritten offering by Goldman Sachs (Asia) L.L.C. and Morgan Stanley Asia Limited (the “Underwriters”), each acting severally on behalf of itself and/or its respective affiliates. The Underwriters will use the resulting short position to facilitate hedging transactions by certain investors subscribing for the Notes, who employ a convertible arbitrage strategy (the “Convertible Arbitrage Investors”). The Company has been advised that each Underwriter is concurrently entering into privately negotiated derivative transactions relating to the Class Z ordinary shares, enabling Convertible Arbitrage Investors to establish their initial short positions in the Class Z ordinary shares to hedge market risk in the Notes. The number of Class Z ordinary shares subject to the Concurrent Delta Offering will be determined at the time of pricing of the Concurrent Delta Offering, and is expected to generally correspond to such initial short positions of the Convertible Arbitrage Investors. No new Class Z ordinary shares will be issued in the Concurrent Delta Offering. The Company will not receive any proceeds from the Concurrent Delta Offering. The Notes Offering and the Concurrent Delta Offering are contingent upon each other.
In addition, the Company intends to purchase a number of its Class Z ordinary shares offered in the Concurrent Delta Offering for an amount expected to be up to US$100 million at the offering price (the “Concurrent Repurchase”) pursuant to its existing share repurchase program.
The Company will use part of the proceeds from the Notes Offering for the Concurrent Repurchase. The Concurrent Repurchase enables investors to establish some of their initial short positions in the Class Z ordinary shares to hedge market risk in the Notes and reflects the Company’s confidence in its long-term strategy and growth. The repurchased shares will be cancelled.
The Company has filed an automatic shelf registration statement on Form F-3 (including a prospectus) with the SEC. The Concurrent Delta Offering will be made only by means of a prospectus supplement and an accompanying prospectus. Before you invest, you should read the prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus and other documents that the Company has filed with the SEC for more complete information about the Company and the Concurrent Delta Offering. You may obtain these documents by visiting EDGAR on the SEC website at www.sec.gov. Alternatively, a copy of the prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus may be obtained from Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC, 200 West Street, New York, New York 10282, Attention: Prospectus Department, Email: Prospectus-ny@ny.email@gs.com, Telephone: 1 (866) 471-2526; or Morgan Stanley Asia Limited, c/o Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, 180 Varick Street, New York, New York 10014, Attention: Prospectus Department, Email: prospectus@morganstanley.com, Telephone: 1 (866) 718-1649.
This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any of these securities, nor shall there be a sale of the securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful.
This press release contains information about the pending Concurrent Delta Offering and Concurrent Repurchase, and there can be no assurance that the Concurrent Delta Offering and Concurrent Repurchase will be completed.
Safe Harbor Statement
This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “aims,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident,” “potential,” “continue,” or other similar expressions. Among other things, the terms of the Notes, whether the Company will complete the Notes Offering, whether the Concurrent Delta Offering and/or Concurrent Repurchase will be completed, a description of various hedging activities, and statements about Bilibili’s beliefs and expectations, contain forward-looking statements. Bilibili may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its interim and annual reports to shareholders, in announcements, circulars or other publications made on the website of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Hong Kong Stock Exchange”), in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Bilibili’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: results of operations, financial condition, and stock price; Bilibili’s strategies; Bilibili’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Bilibili’s ability to retain and increase the number of users, members and advertising customers, provide quality content, products and services, and expand its product and service offerings; competition in the online entertainment industry; Bilibili’s ability to maintain its culture and brand image within its addressable user communities; Bilibili’s ability to manage its costs and expenses; PRC governmental policies and regulations relating to the online entertainment industry, general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. All information provided in this announcement and in the attachments is as of the date of the announcement, and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.
About Bilibili Inc.
Bilibili is an iconic brand and a leading video community with a mission to enrich the everyday lives of young generations in China. Bilibili offers a wide array of video-based content with All the Videos You Like as its value proposition. Bilibili builds its community around aspiring users, high-quality content, talented content creators and the strong emotional bonds among them. Bilibili pioneered the “bullet chatting” feature, a live comment function that has transformed our users’ viewing experience by displaying the thoughts and feelings of audience members viewing the same video. The Company has now become the welcoming home of diverse interests among young generations in China and the frontier for promoting Chinese culture across the world.
For more information, please visit: http:/ir.bilibili.com.
For investor and media inquiries, please contact:
In China:
Bilibili Inc.
Juliet Yang
Tel: -86-21-2509-9255 Ext. 8523
Email: ir@bilibili.com
Piacente Financial Communications
Helen Wu
Tel: -86-10-6508-0677
Email: bilibili@tpg-ir.com
In the United States:
Piacente Financial Communications
Brandi Piacente
Tel: -1-212-481-2050
Email: bilibili@tpg-ir.com
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Tokyo stocks closed lower on Wednesday as investors sold off positions ahead of the upcoming Japan-U.S. finance ministers’ meeting.
A stronger yen, which briefly rose to the mid-143 range against the U.S. dollar, added downward pressure.
The benchmark Nikkei stock index, the 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average, closed at 37,298.98, down 230.51 points, or 0.61 percent, from the previous trading day.
Market participants were cautious amid speculation that the United States might call for corrective measures against the weak yen. As the yen strengthened further in the afternoon, selling intensified in Nikkei futures, widening the index’s decline.
The broader TOPIX index also declined, ending 5.95 points lower, or 0.22 percent, at 2,732.88.
Of the listed stocks on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime Market, declining stocks numbered 816, while 747 rose and 69 remained flat.
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 21 (Xinhua) — A train loaded with 1,610 tons of feed wheat flour arrived from Almaty to Wuhan, capital of central China’s Hubei Province, on Tuesday.
This batch of flour will be delivered to local feed factories. Let us recall that the special train delivered agricultural products from Central Asia to Hubei Province for the first time, writes the Changjiang Ribao newspaper /Yangtze Daily/.
To meet Hubei Province’s demand for feed raw materials, in recent years, regular China-Europe/Central Asia railway services have opened routes linking the province with cities in Kazakhstan, including Uralsk and Kokshetau.
Currently, textiles, electronic products, automobiles and other goods are shipped from Hubei to Central Asia. At the same time, a warehouse for goods from Kazakhstan’s Turkestan region has been established in Wuhan.
Two more freight trains carrying agricultural products are expected to leave Kazakhstan for Wuhan by the end of this month. The volume of such products imported from Central Asia to Hubei will exceed 500,000 tons per year.
According to statistics, Wuhan’s Wujiashan Station has handled a total of 293 China-Europe/Central Asia freight trains since the beginning of this year. -0-
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –
The Polytechnic University hosted a music festival dedicated to the closing of the season at the SPbPU Student Club. Students gathered on an improvised stage to listen to the performances of the Polytechnicians.
The evening was opened by the SPbPU Pop Symphony Orchestra “Ingenium”, winner and laureate of many All-Russian and international competitions. Under the direction of conductor Dmitry Misyura, the musicians masterfully performed rock hits of the genre’s legends: from the powerful compositions “Rammstein” and “Aria” to the cult tracks “Europe” and “Survivor”. The audience not only applauded, but also unanimously picked up the familiar tunes.
Up until this point, we considered ourselves experienced musicians, sufficiently seasoned by stage performances. But when we found ourselves in the open air, we were very surprised. We had no idea how difficult it was. On the one hand, it was an informal street setting and a sense of freedom, on the other hand, the need to be super focused, because the sound literally flies in different directions. In general, this is an incredibly interesting experience for the orchestra. The impressions are amazing! – shared first-year student of the Institute of Culture and Science, violinist Natalia Maksimova.
No less striking was the appearance on stage of the international group “Secret Scarlet”. Created three years ago by foreign students of the Polytechnic University, the group united musicians from Indonesia, Russia and Bolivia. Sharp guitar riffs, energetic vocals and driving arrangements conquered the audience, proving that music erases boundaries. Festival guests not only sang along and danced, but also created: they left warm wishes and author’s autographs on the art wall made of vinyl records.
The 2024-2025 season was busy for student creative associations: the groups went to perform all over Russia – they visited Moscow seven times, Veliky Novgorod three times, showed themselves in Gatchina, Kislovodsk, Samara and Petrozavodsk. Foreign trips were not ignored either: choirs sang at concert venues in Armenia and Belarus. In total, over the past season, the Polytechnic studios and associations performed 135 times, gave 61 performances, and won 50 awards in competitions and festivals.
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
India is in a stronger position than other countries to withstand global trade disruptions, in the wake of the US tariff turmoil, due to the large size of its domestic market and the country’s low dependence on goods exports, according to a Moody’s report released on Wednesday.
The report points out that the government initiatives, such as increasing infrastructure investment, steps taken to boost private consumption, will help shield India’s economy from weakening global demand.
“India’s large domestic economy and limited exposure to global goods trade puts it in a stronger position to absorb external shocks,” the report said.
Some sectors — like automobiles, which export to the US — may encounter global headwinds, despite their diversified operations. But India’s robust services sector and large domestic economy provide strong buffers, according to the report.
The report also states that declining inflation is expected to pave the way for a soft monetary policy with interest rate cuts to spur growth. The banking sector also has sufficient liquidity to support credit growth, according to the report.
The Moody’s report also observes that the recent India-Pakistan tensions are more likely to weigh on Pakistan’s economy than India’s. The key economic hubs in India are far from the conflict zones, and bilateral economic ties remain limited.
However, a prolonged escalation could lead to increased defence spending, which might slow fiscal consolidation efforts and impact government finances, the report added.
Moody’s Ratings had earlier this month pegged India’s GDP growth at 6.3 per cent for 2025 and expects the economy to pick up momentum in 2026 to record a 6.5 per cent growth rate. The forecast is in line with the IMF outlook, which sees India as the only major economy in the world to record an over 6 per cent growth rate in 2025. (IANS)
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –
On May 17, the HSE Center of Cultures hosted the eleventh Oriental Crazy Day, organized by Faculty of World Economy and World Politics (FMEiMP) HSE. Anyone interested in the East, its culture and languages, as well as admission to HSE could become a guest. Students and teachers of the university prepared master classes, quizzes and competitions. And here you could also see K-pop dances and kabuki theater, hear oriental songs and poetry.
At the festival, everyone was able to immerse themselves in the diversity of Eastern culture. Guests learned the intricacies of Arabic, Japanese and Turkish calligraphy, told fortunes using the Book of Changes and Thai sticks, and made traditional Korean norigae pendants and aromatic bags. The program also included a master class in water painting using the famous Turkish ebru technique and Hawaiian dance lessons. In addition, as part of the festival, the OP “Oriental Studies“, where applicants learned about the requirements for applicants and the specifics of studying at HSE.
The festival ended with a bright concert with fiery dances in the K-pop style, oriental songs and poetry, as well as a performance by the Kabuki theater. “This is not the first, not the second, not even the tenth year that this huge festival has been held for those who love, know and study the East. What we see on stage today beckons and attracts in the East, and I hope that there will be even more people who want to discover this amazing world,” Anastasia Likhacheva, Dean of the Faculty of World Economy and World Politics at the National Research University Higher School of Economics, addressed the guests.
The guests shared their emotions and impressions of the holiday with the Vyshka.Glavnoe news service.
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua
21 May 2025 – The Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua has published a Transitional Standard, outlining how deposit takers must collect and store customer information in the event of a deposit taker failure so that they can ensure timely payments.
The Deposit Takers (Depositor Compensation Scheme Transitional Provisions) Standard 2025 comes into force on 1 July 2025 and sets out how deposit takers should gather alternate bank details from depositors in the event of a failure, so that Depositor Compensation Scheme (DCS) payments can be made as quickly as possible.
Deposit takers that provide online software for their depositors to view or manage their accounts, such as internet or mobile applications, must have a pre-positioned DCS depositor page that can be easily accessed on these platforms in the event of a failure. This requirement comes into effect on 1 July 2025 for non-mobile based platforms, and on 31 December 2025 for mobile-based applications.
The DCS depositor page will be used to collect customers’ alternate bank account details so that DCS payments can be made into an active bank account at another deposit taker.
Having a prepositioned DCS depositor page improves the user experience in the event of a failure as depositors will be able to verify their identity through their normal online process and enter their alternate account details. This should make the payment process faster and reduce risks associated with having to verify the identity of depositors on a separate platform.
The Transitional Standard also sets out an alternate model for collecting customer data if deposit takers can collect the required information more efficiently using a different approach. Deposit takers have the option to submit a written proposal to the RBNZ that outlines their proposed alternate method for collecting depositor information securely from authorised individuals other than via a DCS depositor page.
The RBNZ consulted on a draft of this Transitional Standard between 6 December 2024 and 7 February 2025 and received 10 submissions from a combination of deposit takers and industry bodies.
You can find the Transitional Standard and Guidance here: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=6911a962bd&e=f3c68946f8
More information
Source: Better Taxes for a Better Future
The decision by the Government to abandon the proposed Digital Services Tax has been described as very disappointing by the Better Taxes for a Better Future campaign, raising questions about how the Government intends to fill the revenue gap left by this move. It also raises questions about how the Government will ensure digital services companies are paying a fair rate of tax on their earnings in New Zealand.
The Digital Services Tax Bill, which was introduced by the previous Labour Government has been sitting on Parliament’s order paper since August 2023. It would have instituted a 3% tax on digital services revenue earned from New Zealand customers by large digital services companies. Treasury had already included the revenue from the proposed tax in its latest forecasts and estimated it would contribute $479m between 2027 and 2029.
“We need to know how the Government intends to plug the $479m revenue gap left by their decision to drop the Digital Services Tax, at a time when our public services, particularly health, are in crisis because of underfunding,” says Glenn Barclay spokesperson for the Better Taxes campaign.
“The digital economy has proven very difficult to tax and the absence of a digital services tax has allowed multi-national tech companies to avoid paying their fair share of tax in Aotearoa New Zealand.”
“Around 18 countries already operate digital services taxes, and while the American administration doesn’t like them, we are not aware of any countries repealing these laws in response to threats from the Trump administration,” says Glenn Barclay.
“Instead of giving in to such threats,the Government should have proceeded with the Bill, or at the very least left it on the Parliamentary Order Paper until it could be implemented or an alternative developed.”
“If the Government is stepping away from the Bill then we need to know how it intends to progress the taxation of multi-national tech companies in this country, to ensure that these companies contribute to this country, rather than just exploiting their privileged position.” says Glenn Barclay.
“We don’t share the Minister’s optimism about an enforceable agreement on minimum corporate tax rates at the OECD in the medium term in the face of opposition from the Trump Administration. New Zealand needs another solution.”
“In addition it leaves another big question mark over how the Government will ensure advertising-dependent news local media will survive when their news and advertising is being taken by the social media giants who don’t pay a fair rate of tax,” says Glenn Barclay.
ENDS
Media spokesperson: Glenn Barclay – 027 295 5110
The Better Taxes for a Better Future Campaign is a coalition of over 20 organisations led by Tax Justice Aotearoa.
We believe that tax reform is the only solution to the current challenges facing Aotearoa NZ. We need the tax system to:
be transparent
raise more revenue to enable us address the challenges we face
make sure people who have more to contribute make that contribution: that we gather more revenue from wealth, gains from wealth, all forms of income, and corporates
make greater use of fair taxes to promote good health and environmental health
address the tax impact on the least well off in our society.
Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand
21 May 2025 – Today marks the launch of Tara-ā-Umanga Business Expectations Survey (BES), with our publication of results for the June quarter (Table M15). BES is a quarterly release that will be published ahead of each Monetary Policy Statement.
The initial publication includes our Stats Insight, a background note as a guide to interpret the new survey results, and a description of our survey methodology.
BES includes several hundred businesses from different sectors around the country, from small to large firms. It is separate from the existing Survey of Expectations focusing on expert forecasters, economists and industry leaders (Table M14, from 1987 onwards), which will continue.
The sample size and design enable new breakdowns by business size and industry, which are published in the data file accompanying Table M15. To facilitate the publication of detailed results by business size and industry, along with common measures of statistical uncertainty, we are using a new file format for the M15 data file. This intentionally differs from the file format of our other statistical releases. A description of the variables published in the M15 data file is available in the background notes to this release.
Background information
Inflation expectations are important because households and businesses reflect their expectations in their price- and wage-setting decisions. Improving the quality of our expectation surveys is part of the wider response to our 2022 review of how we formulate and implement our monetary policy. In this review, we identified several areas where better data could support high quality monetary policy decision-making.
For further information please see: Tara-ā-Umanga Business Expectations Survey: Survey design and development: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=ce329fb983&e=f3c68946f8
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra
The Victorian and NSW Nationals senators due to face the voters at the 2028 election will struggle to hold their seats if the former partners do not re-form the Coalition before then.
Under usual Coalition arrangements, Bridget McKenzie, from Victoria, who is Nationals Senate leader, and Ross Cadell, from NSW, would have been set to be number two on the joint Senate ticket in their respective states. This would have assured them of re-election.
But if they have to run on separate Nationals Senate tickets, it will be hard for them to garner enough votes to be re-elected. One reason is the Nationals would not have candidates in urban lower house seats, and so their Senate how-to-vote tickets wouldn’t be handed out in those areas.
As Liberals reeled after the Nationals’ sudden desertion of the Coalition on Tuesday, Opposition Leader Sussan Ley is working on her all-Liberal opposition frontbench, to be announced Thursday or Friday.
Senior Victorian Liberal Dan Tehan said: “We’re all still in a state of shock of the outcome. I don’t think people have really come to terms with it.”
Nationals MP Darren Chester, from Victoria, urged negotiations between the parties to continue. He warned “if we go to the next sitting of parliament being two divided party rooms we are giving a free pass to the prime minister”.
Nationals leader David Littleproud continued to defend his party’s shock decision to split the Coalition.
He told the ABC “plenty of political commentators” were taking potshots.
“Well, good luck, they don’t understand what it is to be a Nat. What it is to live and to know and to hear the stories of people who are in danger because of mobile phone towers. Young families that can’t afford their mortgage because they can’t go back to work, because they can’t find a childcare place, because there are none.”
Asked if the Nationals were prepared to stay on the backbench indefinitely if the Liberals didn’t meet their demands, Littleproud said, “Well, if we get to a juncture after the next election where we can form a government with the Liberal Party, then obviously we’re going to support the Liberal Party. But there will be conditions, and the conditions are about those things that are core to making the lives of those people that we represent better”.
Former prime minister Tony Abbott joined John Howard in urging an early rapprochement. Abbott said, “I deeply regret the Coalition split and hope that it can be re-formed as soon as possible. History shows that the Liberals and the Nationals win together and fail separately.” On Tuesday Howard warned of the negative consequences of the split.
Liberal deputy leader Ted O’Brien said the Nationals’ decision was “more than disappointing”.
He said the parties were “stronger together” and he hoped over time the Nationals will “draw the same conclusion that we are better together than we are apart”.
With three-cornered contests one issue now the parties are not in coalition, McKenzie was asked whether she would be relaxed about the Liberals running in all Nationals seats.
“This is one of the serious risks of the decision we took yesterday,” she said, adding it had been “part of our thinking as went forward”.
“We also see it as an opportunity to put a very strong proposition for rural and regional Australia to those communities.
“At the end of the day, though, Coalition arrangements are matters for our state parties – so the LNP in Queensland, the NSW state Nationals and also the Victorian Nationals.”
Michelle Grattan does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
– ref. View from The Hill: Coalition split puts Victorian and NSW Nationals Senate seats at high risk – https://theconversation.com/view-from-the-hill-coalition-split-puts-victorian-and-nsw-nationals-senate-seats-at-high-risk-256456
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
The organizers of the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF) unveiled posters, jury lineup and select highlights for the upcoming festival at a press conference in Beijing on May 20.
Organizers brief media at a press conference for the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF) and the 30th Shanghai TV Festival (STVF), Beijing, May 20, 2025. [Photo courtesy of SIFF Organizing Committee]
Pan Min, director of the Shanghai Film Bureau, announced that renowned Italian director Giuseppe Tornatore will lead the jury for the main competition of the Golden Goblet Awards. Joining him are Argentine screenwriter-director Iván Fund, Chinese actor-director Huang Bo, Greek producer Thanassis Karathanos, Indian filmmaker Kiran Rao, Chinese director Yang Lina and Chinese actress Yong Mei.
Pan revealed that the Golden Goblet Awards this year received a record 3,900-plus film submissions from 119 countries and regions across five competition categories. Submissions included over 2,800 competition entries, with notable growth from the Americas and Africa, as well as an 18% rise in short film submissions.
As an internationally influential film festival, SIFF has long been a prominent platform for showcasing Chinese-language cinema and a vital arena for promotion and distribution. Approximately 60 Chinese films, including competition nominees, new releases and beloved classics, will be featured this year.
A promotional image showing Golden Goblet Awards jury members for the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival. [Photo courtesy of SIFF Organizing Committee]
This year’s SIFF has refined its screening sections to broaden its perspectives, Pan said. For example, the new “Master Duo” format will honor two film masters together, while the Asia Now section will highlight regional cinema with a “Filmmaker in Focus” program. Other additions include the “UK Focus” program in the Contemporary World Cinema section and “Amplify” under the Spectrum section for outstanding genre films worldwide.
The festival’s Film Panorama screening schedule will be announced June 3, with tickets going on sale on June 5 through major ticketing platforms Damai and Taopiaopiao. The opening film, “She’s Got No Name,” directed by Peter Chan, will have a special citywide screening after the opening ceremony on the evening of June 14 at more than 100 cinemas across Shanghai. The day before the press conference, a selection of the films to be screened during the festival were revealed, including IMAX showings of “Michael Jackson’s This Is It,” “Becoming Led Zeppelin,” “The Brutalist” and “Nosferatu.”
Running June 13-22, this year’s SIFF marks both the 130th anniversary of world cinema and 120th anniversary of Chinese cinema. The opening session, themed “Era of Splendor: Dreams Ignite New Journeys,” celebrates Chinese cinema’s achievements over the past 120 years while inspiring new creative journeys. The Film Panorama will feature a special section titled “Resonance: A Brief Encounter of Chinese and World Cinema,” showcasing iconic global films to highlight cinematic exchange between China and the wider world.
Building on the success of the Belt and Road Film Festival Alliance initiated by SIFF, this year’s Belt and Road Film Week will incorporate forums and other events. Selected films recommended by alliance members will also be screened across the Yangtze River Delta, with Nanjing, Suzhou, Hangzhou, Ningbo and Hefei joining Shanghai in showcasing these works.
A poster for the opening film “She’s Got No Name” directed by Peter Chan. [Photo courtesy of SIFF Organizing Committee]
Organizers noted that 2025 also marks several significant diplomatic anniversaries — 50 years of China-EU relations, 55 years of China-Italy ties and 50 years of China-Thailand relations — bringing increased European and Southeast Asian film engagement through exhibitions, screenings and co-productions. The Film Panorama will host an Italian Film Week, showcasing over 20 Italian cinematic classics across nearly 100 screenings, from “Rome, Open City” to “Cinema Paradiso.”
The festival continues to develop its “6+1” tiered talent nurturing framework. The fourth SIFF Young adds producer roles, while SIFF Project’s new Genre Films category attracted more than 530 submissions. The upgraded SIFF ING focuses on new technologies and formats, featuring special tracks for AIGC and vertical-screen formats to support emerging talent, attracting more than 3,600 submissions. For the first time in 21 years, the Asian New Talent Awards will be officially combined with the Golden Goblet Awards.
Four official posters inspired by Shanghai’s architecture and culture for the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival. [Photo courtesy of SIFF Organizing Committee]
SIFF, under the guidance of China Film Administration and co-hosted by China Media Group (CMG) and the Shanghai Municipal Government, will organize 10 to 12 SIFForum sessions and two to four MasterClass sessions. These will cover technological innovation, international cooperation, literary adaptations and IP commercialization, with the aim of exploring new pathways for Chinese cinema’s high-quality development.
In addition, the film festival will be followed by the 30th Shanghai TV Festival (STVF) running from June 23-27, organized by the National Radio and Television Administration, CMG, and the Shanghai Municipal People’s Government. Events include an Ultra HD productions showcase, thematic forums, and a joint International Film & TV Market with SIFF. The International TV Showcase will feature award-winning global programs, while a BBC partnership will commemorate the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth. The festival’s prestigious Magnolia Awards will honor top productions, having received nearly 1,000 entries from 43 countries and regions, including submissions from the BBC, Sony, HBO, Warner Bros. and Disney.
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
At least 26 Naxals were killed in an encounter with security forces in the dense forests of Chhattisgarh’s Narayanpur district, Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma confirmed on Wednesday.
Speaking to ANI, Sharma stated, “More than 26 Naxalites have been neutralized by the security forces. Our forces fought bravely, and the operation is still ongoing with further search efforts underway,”.
Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao also hailed the operation’s success, reiterating the government’s commitment to make Bastar region Naxal-free by March 2026. “After assuming office, we launched an intensive program to eliminate Naxalism from Bastar. This encounter in Narayanpur is a major success and a step toward our goal,” he added.
Speaker of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly, Raman Singh, also commended the security forces for the successful operation. “I congratulate the Union Home Minister Amit Shah and State Home Minister Vijay Sharma for their leadership. Our forces carried out this operation in extreme temperatures of 40 to 42 degrees Celsius, and the people of Bastar have shown overwhelming support for peace and development,” Singh said.
(With ANI inputs)
Source: Update – homicide investigation, Hamilton
The Maritime Union of New Zealand has strongly condemned KiwiRail’s proposal for drastic job cuts on its Cook Strait ferry operations.
KiwiRail this week announced it would remove the rail-enabled Aratere ferry from service in August 2025.
KiwiRail has advised today it is seeking to cut 70 jobs for MUNZ members in the deck and catering departments on the Aratere.
Further job losses are anticipated for officers and engineers who are members of other unions.
Maritime Union of New Zealand Wellington Branch Secretary Fiona Mansell says crew are angry at the announcement.
The Maritime Union would resist any job losses and would only accept voluntary redundancies.
She says the proposal is a massive letdown for crew who had worked hard and delivered on the ageing KiwiRail ferry fleet, and who were paying for the failures of management and politicians.
“This decision rips the heart out of our maritime workforce, leaving dedicated workers and their families facing an uncertain future. It’s a betrayal of the people who keep our country connected.”
She says such a major loss of jobs would have a devastating impact on New Zealand’s maritime resilience and would be a significant blow to our seafaring workforce.
Ms Mansell says no thought has been given to what KiwiRail will do when it requires more crew for its new vessels in the future.
“New Zealand deserves a resilient, capable maritime sector, not one that is dismantled at the whim of short term thinking and cost-cutting. Our jobs, our skills, and our national supply chain depend on it.”
Source: Republic of China Taiwan
The opening ceremony of the 44th Young Designers’ Exhibition (YODEX) 2025, was held on May 9 at Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center Hall 2, Mr. Chin-Tsang Ho, the Deputy Minister of Ministry of Economic Affairs and other distinguished guests are officially opening the events. The exhibition, running from May 9 (Friday) to May 12 (Monday), is jointly guided by the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) and the Ministry of Education (MOE), and organized by the Industrial Development Administration (IDA), and executed by the Taiwan Design Research Institute (TDRI).
With the theme “Preferred Future”, YODEX 2025 presents a rich woven tapestry of perspectives on future living through the lens of design. This year’ s events feature participation from 59 domestic schools, 122 departments, nearly 10,000 young designers, and approximately 3,500 design works. Additionally, 10 schools from seven countries- including the United States, Thailand, Japan, Mexico, India, and Australia-have joined the showcase. The event also highlights the outcomes of 11 industry-academia cooperation projects, emphasizing the interwoven synergy between design talents and industry. The public is warmly invited to experience firsthand the bold yet pragmatical imagination and creativity of Taiwan’ s next generation of designers.
Beyond an exhibition, YODEX is also a key platform for industry-academia cooperation and a talent pipeline for enterprises seeking outstanding creatives. This year’ s YODEX Industry-Academia Collaboration Program features participation from seven companies and institutions-including Gamania Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd., FAMICA INTERNATIONAL CO. LTD., and the NEW TAIPEI CITY DESIGN CENTER-under the themes of “Future Education”, “Future Health”, and “Future Entertainment”. A total of 365 student teams submitted proposals, with 19 teams selected for six months of co-creation with industry partners.
To promote regional talent development, this year also witnessed the expansion of YODEX Industry-Academia Cooperation, with four companies-YEE CHAIN INTERNATIONAL CO., Ltd., Tair Chu Enterprise Co, Ltd, KENDA RUBBER INDUSTRIAL Co.,Ltd. and SLICETHINNER MANUFACTURING COMPANY Ltd.-partnering with nine universities. A total of 105 students worked on solutions tailored to local industry needs, encouraging local employment and retention of design talent.
This year’ s upgraded Professional Day features cross-disciplinary professionals, student pitch sessions, and corresponding matchmaking. A record of 14 industry forums cover topics like IP licensing, packaging, education, sustainability, and tech, deepening industry-academia collaboration.
The 2025 44th Young Designers’ Exhibition gathers Taiwan’s design schools and industry resources to explore the future of design. Through cross-disciplinary collaborations and international exchanges, it showcases diverse aspects of design education and practice. Welcome to this events from May 9 to May 12 to eyewitness how the young designers creatively imagine and project the issues like environment, technology, and humanity while exploring the possible future living.
Source: City of Leeds
From gnomes galore at Abbey House Museum to Woolfest at Leeds Industrial Museum – check out our highlighted free and low-cost things to do in Leeds with your family over the May half term break.
Gnomes Galore at Abbey House Museum
Help! The museum’s cheeky gnomes have escaped and are hiding all over the Victorian Streets, grab a trail sheet and see who you can find! Be sure to come and join the mischief and also take part in craft activities inspired by our cheeky friends.
Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, cost: included in admission
Find out more: Gnomes Galore at Abbey House Museum
Kirkstall Abbey Scarecrow Festival
Explore the historic ruins of Kirkstall Abbey whilst looking for fun scarecrows during the Scarecrow Festival! You might find a Hungry Caterpillar in the Kitchen, a ladybird in the library or a horse in the hospital! Wander through the park and woodlands and take a leisurely stroll beside the River Aire whilst learning about the historic Abbey.
Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, cost: included in admission
Find out more: Kirkstall Abbey Scarecrow Festival
Love Your Zoo Week at Lotherton
Take part in Love Your Zoo Week at Lotherton and celebrate all the animals in Wildlife World. Follow the ‘amazing animals’ trail, hop on board their famous tractor trailer for a deer park tour, get crafty in the House and find out more about the wildlife in the zoo.
Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, cost: included in admission (crafts and tractor tour are additional costs)
Find out more: Love Your Zoo Week at Lotherton
Find Your Happy at Temple Newsam House
In the big house you will find crafts and activities all inspired by the theme of happiness. Families will be able to enjoy joyful crafts, dreamy dressing up, not so tricky trails and more! There is also a brand new exhibition by Leeds Fine Artists which is on display in different rooms throughout the house. See if you can spot the newest paintings and objects on display and how the artists have been inspired by the country house.
Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, cost: included in admission
Find out more: Find Your Happy at Temple Newsam House
Love Your Zoo Week at Tropical World
Celebrate Love Your Zoo Week by visiting Tropical World and meeting their new sulcata tortoises. Take part in Tank’s Tortoise Trail, experience keeper talks, take part in craft activities, and treat yourself to a tasty snack in the café.
Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, cost: included in admission
Find out more: Love Your Zoo Week at Tropical World
Half term at Kirkgate Market
Visit Kirkgate Market over half term to experience pop-up events and free family activities including giant games, colouring, Lego crafts, and Duplo building.
Saturday 24 May to Friday 30 May, cost: free
Find out more: Half term at Kirkgate Market
Half term at the Royal Armouries Museum
Over half term, the Royal Armouries Museum will be shining a light on the Second World War – with live presentations, battle stories and weapon talks. And experience their new display, Objects in Focus, which marks the 80th anniversaries of Victory in Europe (VE) Day and Victory in Japan (VJ) Day.
Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June, 10am to 5pm, cost: free
Find out more: Half term at the Royal Armouries
Miffy Crafts at Leeds City Museum
Delve into the world of Miffy books and create your own bold, colourful Miffy artwork. Come to the museum for Miffy-themed arts and crafts during the half term. There’ll also be finger puppets and Miffy ears for little bunnies to decorate. Activities are suitable for all ages, designed for families to have a go together.
Tuesday 27, Wednesday 28, and Thursday 29 May, 10am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm, cost: free
Find out more: Miffy Crafts at Leeds City Museum
These Are My Rocks with Bethan Woollvin at Leeds Libraries
Do you collect anything? Everyone collects something! Join award-winning author/illustrator Bethan Woollvin at one of our libraries for an exciting workshop based on her brand-new picture book These Are My Rocks, which is all about the joy of collecting things.
Tuesday 27 May to Friday 30 May (locations and times vary), cost: pay what you decide
Find out more: These Are My Rocks with Bethan Woollvin
Turn Back the Clock at Leeds Discovery Centre
In this family workshop, come and take a closer look at some of the amazing clocks in the discovery centre’s collection and have a go at making your own wall clock to take home.
Wednesday 28 May, 10am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm, cost: give what you can – bookings required via the website
Find out more: Turn Back the Clock at Leeds Discovery Centre
Woolfest at Leeds Industrial Museum
Celebrate the wonder of wool with craft stalls, workshops, live demonstrations, a pop-up tea room and loads more – the city’s original festival of wool is back with a bang in 2025! We have it all from packed out crafting markets to expert demonstrations, talks, performances, tea room pop-ups and loads more. Whether you’re a natty knitter or crackers about crochet, it’s a great day out for all ages.
Saturday 31 May, 10am to 5pm, cost: £5 for adults, £2.90 for children
Find out more: Woolfest at Leeds Industrial Museum
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Crowds gathered at the Hokkaido booth during the 34th Harbin International Economic and Trade Fair, drawn by live demonstrations of handcrafted rice balls and an array of regional delicacies from the northern Japanese prefecture.
“This year, 14 Hokkaido-based enterprises are showcasing 36 specialty products, with 12 companies and 34 products making their debut at the fair,” said Takayuki Kano, Vice Governor of Hokkaido, expressing hopes that the event would help Hokkaido businesses secure local distributors and expand their footprint across China.
Held in Harbin, capital of northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, this year’s fair, which concluded on Wednesday, attracted over 1,500 enterprises from 38 countries and regions, including the United States, Japan and Switzerland, alongside participants from 23 Chinese provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities.
During the fair, foreign officials and corporate representatives highlighted Heilongjiang’s growing appeal as an investment destination and pledged to deepen their engagement with the Chinese market.
Jonathan Pauwels, director of product development and branding for agricultural equipment manufacturer Case IH’s Asia-Pacific division, spoke about his company’s more-than-two-decade journey in the region.
“We established our first factory in Harbin as early as 1999 and set up an agricultural machinery product development and research center in 2013. Over the past decade, we have continuously invested approximately 1 billion yuan (about 139 million U.S. dollars) in Heilongjiang to promote smart manufacturing. Now, many of our new agricultural machinery products have been introduced to the entire Chinese market,” he said.
With 40 global production facilities and 49 R&D centers, Case IH plans to expand its investments in Heilongjiang over the next five years by localizing components, developing advanced combine harvesters, and expanding exports from its Harbin base, according to Pauwels.
Cao Jingheng, senior vice president of Nestle Greater China, attributed the renewed confidence of foreign companies to Heilongjiang’s “revitalization through opening up” strategy. The province’s fertile black soil, premium dairy pastures, and business-friendly policies prompted Nestle to establish its first Chinese mainland factory in Harbin’s Shuangcheng district in 1987. To date, the Swiss conglomerate has invested 3 billion yuan in the province, supporting 33,000 dairy households and creating 10,000 jobs.
“China is now Nestle’s second-largest global market. We look forward to further strengthening our cooperation with Heilongjiang by introducing Swiss technologies and managerial experience, while bringing more premium local products to international markets,” Cao said.
The fair also attracted new entrants like Canadian athletic apparel brand Lululemon. Since opening its first store in Heilongjiang in 2022, sales have surged, according to Kang Tai, the company’s general manager of government affairs.
“We are confident about our development in Heilongjiang and plan to expand our presence and collaborate with the province to promote winter sports development,” Kang said.
Ren Hongbin, chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, emphasized China’s enduring appeal to global investors, adding that the fair and the concurrent events serve as a vital platform for international businesses to explore opportunities in Heilongjiang and beyond.
Source: New Zealand Police
Hawke’s Bay Police are asking the public for information to stop dirt bike riders in their tracks, before they cause more serious harm.
Senior Sergeant Ross Smith says a woman and a young boy have been injured recently in two separate incidents due to “dangerous, and frankly stupid” behaviour by people on dirt bikes.
Last week on Wednesday an 8-year-old boy suffered a broken bone in his leg after being hit by a dirt bike rider in Flaxmere.
And on 24 April a woman was hit by a dirt bike outside a café in Hastings, causing moderate injuries, while the two young riders received critical and serious injuries.
“There continues to be ongoing issues with people of all ages riding dirt bikes illegally on roads, footpaths and parks, mainly in the Flaxmere and Camberley areas,” Senior Sergeant Smith says.
“Riders are not wearing helmets or robust safety clothing. The motorbikes are often unregistered, not warranted and some are in poor condition and not road worthy.
“These riders have little regard for other road users, pedestrians or families using the parks and the public are paying the price.
“We are also urging parents of children who use dirt bikes to make sure they do so in a safe way, otherwise more people will get hurt,” says Senior Sergeant Smith.
Police are prepared to take enforcement action when necessary.
We are asking people if they witness any of this kind of behaviour to report it to Police on 111 if it is happening now, or 105.police.govt.nz if it is after the fact.
If you see dirt bikes being ridden dangerously then please take photos or videos and send it into Hawke’s Bay Police through the 105 website.
You may have also captured them on other devices such as dash cams or house security cameras. This can be done anonymously through our 105 services.
Gain as much information as you are safely able to, including the type of activity, any descriptions of the bikes and riders, the areas where this activity occurs and where they may come from, and any photos or video footage.
If Police are not able to attend these incidents immediately, follow-up action will be taken.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
21 May – Fleet utilisation for April 2025 was 58 per cent.
Safe Zephyrus and Safe Eurus operated at full capacity during April, achieving 100 per cent commercial uptime.
Safe Notos had 92 per cent commercial uptime due to required repairs.
Safe Caledonia has been re-activated for UK contract with start 01 June. Safe Boreas is in process of being transported to Singapore ahead of contract in Australia.
Safe Scandinavia has been sold for recycling and been delivered to the buyer.
Prosafe is a leading owner and operator of semi-submersible accommodation vessels. The company is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange with ticker code PRS. For more information, please refer to https://www.prosafe.com
For further information, please contact:
Terje Askvig, CEO
Phone: +47 952 03 886
Reese McNeel, CFO
Phone: +47 415 08 186
This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.
By Patrick Decloitre, RNZ Pacific correspondent French Pacific desk
New Caledonia and French Polynesia have sent strong delegations this week to the United Nations Pacific regional seminar on the implementation of the Fourth International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism in Timor-Leste.
The seminar opened in Dili today and ends on Friday.
As French Pacific non-self-governing territories, the two Pacific possessions will brief the UN on recent developments at the event, which is themed “Pathways to a sustainable future — advancing socioeconomic and cultural development of the Non-Self-Governing Territories”.
New Caledonia and French Polynesia are both in the UN’s list of non-self-governing territories to be decolonised, respectively since 1986 and 2013.
Nouméa-based French Ambassador for the Pacific Véronique Roger-Lacan is also attending.
After the Dili meeting this week, the UN’s Fourth Commission is holding its formal meeting in New York in July and again in October in the margins of the UN General Assembly.
As New Caledonia marks the first anniversary this month of the civil unrest that killed 14 people and caused material damage to the tune of 2.2 billion euros last year (NZ$4.1 billion), the French Pacific territory’s political parties have been engaged for the past four months in political talks with France to define New Caledonia’s political future.
However, the talks have not yet managed to produce a consensual way forward between pro-France and pro-independence groups.
French Minister for Overseas Manuel Valls, at the end of the most recent session on May 8, put a project of “sovereignty with France” on the table which was met by strong opposition by the pro-France Loyalists (anti-independence) camp.
This year again, parties and groups from around the political spectrum are planning to travel to Dili to plead their respective cases.
Topping the list is New Caledonia’s government President Alcide Ponga, who chairs the pro-France Rassemblement party and came to power in January 2025.
Other represented institutions include New Caledonia’s customary (traditional) Senate, a kind of Great Council of Chiefs, which also sends participants to ensure the voice of indigenous Kanak people is heard.
Over the past two years, pro-France groups have become more aware of the need for them to be more vocal and present at regional and international fora.
French Polynesia back on the UN list since 2013
In French Polynesia, the pro-independence ruling Tavini Huiraatira party commemorated the 12th anniversary of re-inscription to the UN list of territories to be decolonised on 17 May 2013.
This week, Tavini also sent a strong delegation to Timor-Leste, which includes territorial Assembly President Antony Géros.
However, the pro-France parties, locally known as “pro-autonomy”, also want to ensure their views are taken into account.
One of them is Moerani Frébault, one of French Polynesia’s representatives at the French National Assembly.
“Contrary to what the pro-independence people are saying, we’re not dominated by the French Republic,” he told local media at a news conference at the weekend.
Frébault said the pro-autonomy parties now want to invite a UN delegation to French Polynesia “so they can see for themselves that we have all the tools we need for our development.
“This is the message we want to get across”.
Territorial Assembly member Tepuaraurii Teriitahi, from the pro-autonomy Tapura Huiraatira party, is also travelling to Dili.
“The majority of (French) Polynesians is not pro-independence. So when we travel to this kind of seminar, it is because we want to counter those who allege that the whole of (French) Polynesians is sharing this aspiration for independence,” she said.
‘Constitution of a Federated Republic of Ma’ohi Nui’
On the pro-independence side in Pape’ete, the official line is that it wants Paris to at least engage in talks with French Polynesia to “open the subject of decolonisation”.
For the same purpose, the Tavini Party, in April 2025, officially presented a draft for what could become a “Constitution of a Federated Republic of Ma’ohi Nui”.
The document is sometimes described as drawing inspirations from France and the United States, but is not yet regarded as fully matured.
Earlier this month, French Polynesia’s President Moetai Brotherson was in Paris for a series of meetings with several members of the French cabinet, including Minister for Overseas Manuel Valls and French Foreign Affairs Minister Yannick Neuder.
Valls is currently contemplating visiting French Polynesia early in July.
Brotherson came to power in May 2023. Since being elected to the top post, he has stressed that independence — although it remained a longterm goal — was not an immediate priority.
He also said many times that he wished relations with France to evolve, especially on the decolonisation.
“I think we should put those 10 years of misunderstanding, of denial of dialogue behind us,” he said.
In October 2023, for the first time since French Polynesia was re-inscribed on the UN list, France made representations at the UN Special Political and Decolonisation Committee (Fourth Committee), ending a 10-year empty chair hiatus .
But the message delivered by the French Ambassador to the UN, Nicolas De Rivière, was unambiguous.
He said French Polynesia “has no place” on the UN list of non-autonomous territories because “French Polynesia’s history is not the history of New Caledonia”.
He also voiced France’s wish to have French Polynesia withdrawn from the UN list.
The UN list of non-self-governing territories currently includes 17 territories worldwide and six of those are located in the Pacific — American Samoa, Guam, French Polynesia, New Caledonia, Pitcairn Islands and Tokelau.
This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
SHANGHAI, May 21 (Xinhua) — China’s pizza market is expected to exceed 100 billion yuan (about 13.9 billion U.S. dollars) in the next five years, with growth driven mainly by smaller cities, according to an industry report released at the ongoing SIAL Shanghai international food expo.
In 2024-2025, the market size is expected to grow from 48 billion to 60.8 billion yuan. By the end of March 2025, there were more than 60 thousand pizzerias in China.
In terms of the growth rate of the pizzeria chain for the period from 2016 to 2022, cities of the third and lower levels surpassed cities of the first category – the growth was 10 percent and 7.6 percent, respectively. In the period from 2025 to 2027, another 15 thousand pizzerias are expected to open.
Notably, in 2022, the online segment’s share in the Chinese pizza market surpassed the offline sales share for the first time, reaching 58.1 percent. The online segment will continue to expand in the coming years, the report notes.
Pizza arrived in mainland China in 1990, when the country’s first foreign-invested pizzeria opened. Initially considered a Western dish reserved for upper-class cities, pizza has gained widespread popularity in the decades since.
Analysts attribute the market expansion to the active introduction of takeaway services, increased consumer spending in smaller cities and growing demand for pizza options tailored to local tastes.
However, the report notes that the density of pizzerias in China is still low compared to other countries. As of 2022, China had 11.7 such establishments per million people, compared to 232.4 in the United States, and compared to Japan and the Republic of Korea, it is only a third of those countries. -0-
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
​Following is a question by the Hon Michael Tien and a reply by the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan, in the Legislative Council today (May 21):
Question:
There are views that as the Government is currently making vigorous efforts to develop the Northern Metropolis, it should expedite the implementation of various railway projects, such as the “Hung Kong Railway” linking Hung Shui Kiu to Hong Kong Island and the new cross-harbour railway between the coastal areas of Tuen Mun and Hong Kong Island. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) as the Government has indicated earlier on that the co-ordination of railway projects by one single entity is conducive to maintaining cost-efficiency, and that splitting part of the railway project works into a public works project may not be able to help enhance the efficiency of such a project, but there are views that adopting the public-private-partnership (PPP) approach in taking forward the railway projects (e.g. handing over to the Government the infrastructure portion, which accounts for about 70 per cent of the overall works, while the MTR Corporation Limited will take charge of the remaining portion of the electrical and mechanical works, which accounts for about 30 per cent) may expedite the progress of such works, and the Government may also raise funds through bond issuance, and even if the debt-to-Gross Domestic Product (debt-to-GDP) ratio rises to 16 per cent in the future, Hong Kong’s debt-to-GDP ratio will still rank around 160 among some 170 economies, whether the Government will proactively explore and implement the PPP option in this regard; and
(2) whether it will consider formulating a labour importation scheme specifically for the railway projects, under which Mainland workers who travel on a same-day-return basis and are not entitled to any local benefits will be imported and exempted from the restriction that their wages should not be less than the median monthly wages of local workers in comparable positions, so as to reduce the cost of such projects; if so, of the timetable; if not, the reasons for that?
Reply:
President,
Following the principles of “infrastructure-led” and “capacity-creating”, the Government is pressing ahead with a series of major transport infrastructure projects in the Northern Metropolis (NM) to strengthen the connectivity among the various new development areas and with other districts, as well as to facilitate Hong Kong’s better integration into the national development through the construction of cross-boundary infrastructure.
The Government is carrying out preliminary planning and study for the development of the Kau Yi Chau Artificial Islands (KYCAI) and related strategic railway. The proposed strategic railway is primarily intended to enhance the connectivity of the artificial islands with the NM and the western part of Shenzhen, and its alignment and programme will have to tie in with the planning of the artificial islands. After reviewing the priorities and overall strategy of the various land creation and infrastructure projects, the Government considers that the development pace of the KYCAI could be eased. Separately, relevant departments are conducting a planning and engineering study on the near-shore reclamation in Lung Kwu Tan and the re-planning of Tuen Mun West area, and the transport connectivity of the said area with other districts will be examined in the process.
In consultation with the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau, the Development Bureau and the Labour and Welfare Bureau, our reply to the various parts of the question raised by the Hon Michael Tien is as follows:
(1) To ensure that the NM and other strategic infrastructure projects can proceed on schedule and benefit the economy and people’s livelihood at an early juncture, the Government will leverage market resources in a more flexible manner and adopt more diverse development models. All along, the Government would formulate the most suitable implementation and financing arrangements of individual new railway project taking into account the distinct characteristics and specific circumstances of each project. Currently, railway projects are mainly implemented under the “Rail-plus-Property” model which has proven to be effective. The Government grants property development rights having regard to the funding gap of the project, while the railway company bears the commercial risks associated with the design, construction, operation and maintenance of the railway. Under this arrangement, the railway company would co-ordinate the works for the property development as well as those for the railway, which could enable synergy among the stations, depots and the property development, and also create incentive for the railway company to complete the railway project and thus enhance the value of the property development as early as possible. Where circumstances warrant, the Government does not preclude the possibility to provide financial support for new railway projects through or in combination with other means. In fact, there were railway projects being taken forward using other approaches.
The current practice of having a single entity to implement a railway project ensures seamless co-ordination across all aspects of the project, from design to construction. This also helps ensure that the design of the works fully takes into consideration cost-effectiveness, meeting operational needs while keeping cost under control. Splitting part of the works of a railway project into public works of the Government might not be able to help enhance the efficiency of the works due to interfaces between the works, and would also increase the Government’s fiscal burden. With projects related to the NM being rolled out progressively, as well as other infrastructure projects with socio-economic benefits, the Government will expand the scale of bond issuance correspondingly. Over the five years covered by the current Medium Range Forecast, the ratio of government debt to Gross Domestic Product is expected to rise from the current 9.5 per cent to 16.5 per cent, which remains to be a prudent and manageable level. The actual amount of bonds to be issued by the Government will take into consideration the prevailing fiscal position, market response and works progress. We will continue to adhere strictly to fiscal discipline and ensure the fiscal prudence of our overall bond issuance programmes and sustainability of our public finances.
The MTR Corporation Limited (MTRCL) has been playing a pivotal role in driving Hong Kong’s development. We are aware of public concerns about the possible pressure on the MTRCL’s manpower and resource when taking forward multiple new railway projects simultaneously. The Government has reminded the MTRCL’s management of the need to strategically plan its treasury management, and make financing arrangements through appropriate means such as bond issuance having regard to its liquidity needs, so as to support the corporation’s operation and continuous development. At the same time, the MTRCL must strictly control the costs and compress the programmes of its railway projects in order to enhance the financial viability of the projects.
To enhance speed and efficiency in implementing railway projects, the Government will continue to optimise and streamline procedures through “dual innovation” in policy and technology, so as to save construction time and manpower. Subject to local circumstances and existing legal framework, the Government is also actively exploring ways to facilitate the use of Mainland’s construction methods and capabilities in constructing cross-boundary railway projects. In addition, when taking forward independent new railways or transport infrastructure projects, the Government will consider introducing new entities in their implementation. This would not only help relieve the pressure on the MTRCL, but also enable new entities to introduce innovative technologies and bring in more diverse financing sources.
(2) The existing Labour Importation Scheme for Construction Sector (Construction Sector Scheme) allows principal contractors of eligible works contracts to apply for importation of labour. The requirements for importing labour under the Construction Sector Scheme are formulated by the Government in accordance with Hong Kong’s labour policy. Principal contractors of railway projects may also apply for importation of labour under this scheme as needed.
In the case of cross-boundary railway projects, the adoption of Mainland construction teams would work better with the above-mentioned idea of leveraging the Mainland’s construction methods and capabilities and achieve maximum effectiveness. Taking the subsea railway tunnel of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link at the Deep Bay as an example, it would be more efficient and cost-effective for the Shenzhen side to construct the tunnel by unidirectional tunneling method. The Government will seriously study the implementation of specific arrangements for employment of Mainland labour in cross-boundary railway projects in light of the projects’ unique nature.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Following is a question by the Hon Frankie Yick and a reply by the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan, in the Legislative Council today (May 21):
Question:
There are views pointing out that although the United States (“US”) has seen its ranking as Hong Kong’s major important trading partner decline in recent years, the imposition of high tariffs on Hong Kong goods and the elimination of the duty-free de minimis treatment for small parcels continue to have a significant impact on Hong Kong’s freight and logistics sector. Members of the sector have predicted that the US tariff trade war against China will lead to a sustained decline in Hong Kong’s freight volumes and could trigger an immediate supply chain disruption crisis, and the measures taken under the five major strategies as indicated earlier on by the Secretary of Transport and Logistics will be difficult to see results in the short term. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) whether it has assessed the specific impact of the tariff trade wars launched by US to date on Hong Kong’s freight and logistics sector (including sea, land, and air transport);
(2) in order to make up for the shortfall resulting from the loss of the US market and to consolidate Hong Kong’s position as a regional logistics hub, of the short-term measures taken by the authorities to assist the logistics sector in accelerating the development of new markets; and
(3) in response to cash flow problems faced by logistics companies due to shipment delays or cancellations caused by the tariff trade wars, of the support measures put in place by the Government, such as the consideration of providing low-interest loans to these companies to address their immediate needs?
Reply:
President,
Hong Kong has long supported and upheld the multilateral trading system. The imposition of tariffs and other trade protectionist measures by certain countries not only disregards Hong Kong’s status as a free port with zero tariffs, but also damages the global multilateral trading system. Such measures disrupt global supply chains, harming all parties involved including the implementing countries themselves.
As previously announced by the Chief Executive, in response to the relevant developments, the Government will strengthen its strategy in seven areas, including to fully seize the opportunities in our country, China’s development, and actively integrate into the national development; to strengthen international exchanges and deepen regional ties and co-operation; to accelerate industrial transformation; to intensify efforts to develop technological innovation; to vigorously advance international financial co-operation; to proactively attract foreign companies and capital to establish in Hong Kong; and to provide various support to help Hong Kong enterprises.
Having consulted the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau and the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), our reply to the Hon Frankie Yick’s question is as follows:
(1) Hong Kong recorded a 3.2 per cent year-on-year increase in air cargo volume in thefirst quarter of 2024, reaching 1.16 million tonnes. Container throughput of our port also grew by 2.7 per cent year-on-year to approximately 3.4 million twenty-foot equivalent units. The observed growth in cargo volumes is believed to be attributable to shippers’ urgency to ship goods ahead of the anticipated implementation of reciprocal tariffs. Recently, our country and the United States (US) have reached a provisional agreement to reduce bilateral tariffs for 90 days. It is expected that shippers will maximise shipments during this window. However, it is expected such volume growth is unlikely to be sustained. In fact, the negative impact of the reckless imposition of tariffs by the US on global trade will be far-reaching. The overall global trade volume is expected to fall, and the logistics industry will inevitably be affected.
(2) In light of the new international trade environment, we must make preparations to avoid and mitigate risks while seizing new opportunities arising from the changing landscape. To this end, the Transport and Logistics Bureau will closely monitor developments, maintain proactive engagement with the trade, and lead Hong Kong’s logistics sector to cope with challenges by adopting five major strategies.
Firstly, we will explore emerging markets including the Middle East and the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), while continuing our collaboration with the Hong Kong Logistics Development Council (LOGSCOUNCIL) to promote Hong Kong’s logistics advantages by conducting promotional visits to and exploring other markets along the “Belt and Road”. Secondly, we will strengthen collaboration with ports located in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and establish a comprehensive “rail-sea-land-river” intermodal transport system, thereby developing new cargo sources. Thirdly, we are actively studying the exemption of the import and export licence requirements for certain products to attract more transhipment cargoes. Fourthly, we will deepen international port and shipping co-operation by pursuing digitalisation and green and smart transformation of our port to enhance Hong Kong’s port competitiveness. Fifthly, we will further expand Hong Kong’s maritime and aviation networks to diversify our markets and reduce reliance on the US market.
(3) The HKSAR Government has been assisting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in addressing challenges and maintaining competiveness amid a complicated and ever-changing economic environment through various funding schemes and support measures. As regards alleviating cash flow pressure, the Government has kept on enhancing the SME Financing Guarantee Scheme (SFGS) so as to meet the financing needs of SMEs during the economic downturn. Borrowing enterprises under the SFGS (including enterprises in the logistics sector) are now allowed to apply for principal moratorium arrangement for up to 12 months (the application period will last until November 17, 2025), and the maximum loan guarantee periods of the 80% and 90% Guarantee Products be extended to ten years and eight years respectively. At the same time, the partial principal repayment options will be offered to new loans so as to provide more repayment flexibility.
The HKMA, together with the banking sector, introduced in April 2025 additional support measures to further assist SMEs in obtaining bank financing and in their upgrade and transformation. In addition, all the 18 participating banks in the Taskforce on SME Lending have reaffirmed their commitment to actively implementing the “9+5” SME support measures launched by the HKMA and the banking sector in 2024. Referencing the principles under the Pre-approved Principal Payment Holiday Scheme, the banking sector will continue offering flexible repayment arrangements and deferment of repayment period. The total amount of dedicated funds for SMEs set aside by these banks in their loan portfolio has increased from $370 billion in October 2024 to more than $390 billion at present.
As regards export credit insurance, further to the 2024 Policy Address initiative on increasing the maximum indemnity percentage of the Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation (ECIC) to 95 per cent, ECIC already launched three more support measures on April 10, 2025, including extending the free pre-shipment cover for holders of the Small Business Policy (SBP); offering a 50 per cent discount on pre-shipment risks to cover premiums for non-SBP holders; and aligning the premium rates for new markets with those for traditional markets to assist exporters in tapping into the new markets. ECIC will also provide 20 additional free credit assessment service on the buyers in the Mainland, ASEAN and Middle East, collaborate with various financial institutions to provide financing support for e-commerce, and providing credit insurance for export services relating to multinational supply chain to support Hong Kong export trade.
Thank you, President.
Source: Republic of China Taiwan
The 2025 Young Pin Design Award, jointly supervised by the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) and the Ministry of Education (MOE), and organized by the Industrial Development Administration ,MOEA , and executed by the Taiwan Design Research Institute (TDRI) and Good Design Association has officially revealed the winners at the awards ceremony ,held on May 11 at Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center, Hall 2.
The award ceremony honors the emerging talents, who have presented outstanding creativity and execution across various design fields and providing a platform for Taiwan’s next-generation designers to electrify their design creativities.
This year’s contest received an impressive 4,862 entries from 122 departments across 59 universities in Taiwan. Following the preliminary selection, a jury composed of experts from academia, industry, and design practices has selected entries that stood out for their innovation, design execution, and market potential. A total of 644 projects were shortlisted from 4,862 entries and awarded the “Young Pin Design Award Finalist”. Among selected 664 projects, 127 design works stood out in the final selection and were awarded across 9 categories, including 60 “Young Pin Design Awards”, 3 “Young Pin Special Awards for Circular Design”, 3 “Special Awards for Packaging Design”, 52 “Young PinSponsor Awards”, as well as 9 “Best of Young Pin Design Awards”, the highest prize from the jury.
For the full list of 2025 Young Pin Design Award winners, please visit the official Golden Pin Design Award website: https://www.goldenpin.org.tw/zh-TW
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
IDEX Biometrics ASA’s first quarter 2025 report is attached to this notice.
Recent highlights:
On 11 March 2025 IDEX Biometrics announced a new strategy with a fundamental shift in how the company would take its unique technology and products to market
New CEO appointed – Anders Storbråten
Securing a new debt facility of NOK 30 million, converted to shares
Heights convertible bond renegotiated and amended
Range of operational improvement initiatives under way – target quarterly run rate OPEX from end Q3 2025 in the range of $1.5-1.7 million.
Production order in Japan from the manufacturing partner Beautiful Card Corporation (BCC). The order has a value of approx. USD 50,000
Order received from DigAware to deliver biometric sensor solution for access cards with sensor systems from IDEX
IDEX Biometrics receives IDEX Pay order for VISA biometric cards in the Middle East & Africa region of 10,000 units
KONA I granted Mastercard Letter of Approval for IDEX Pay biometric cards
Completed debt conversion, launching subsequent offering allowing investors to participate at the same terms as shareholders participating in the debt conversion
Financial results Q1 2025:
Revenues of $0.1 million in the quarter.
Ordinary operating expenses amounting to $2.4 million.
Net loss was $4.1 million.
Cash balance per 31 March 2025 at $1.1 million
IDEX Biometrics CEO Anders Storbråten will host a presentation at Arctic Securities at 12:00 CET today. The presentation will be published to the stock exchange.
IDEX Biometrics’ reports and presentations are available on our website: www.idexbiometrics.com/investors
For further information, please contact:
Kristian Flaten, CFO, Tel: +47 95092322
E-mail: ir@idexbiometrics.com
About IDEX Biometrics:
IDEX Biometrics ASA (OSE: IDEX) is a global technology leader in fingerprint biometrics, offering authentication solutions across payments, access control, and digital identity. Our solutions bring convenience, security, peace of mind and seamless user experiences to the world. Built on patented and proprietary sensor technologies, integrated circuit designs, and software, our biometric solutions target card-based applications for payments and digital authentication. As an industry-enabler we partner with leading card manufacturers and technology companies to bring our solutions to market. For more information, visit www.idexbiometrics.com
About this notice:
This notice was issued by Kristian Flaten, CFO, on 21 May 2025 at 08:52 CET on behalf of IDEX Biometrics ASA. This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to the Norwegian Securities Trading Act section 5-12.
Attachment
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew King, Associate Professor in Climate Science, ARC Centre of Excellence for 21st Century Weather, The University of Melbourne
Emergency crews were scrambling to rescue residents trapped by floodwaters on Wednesday as heavy rain pummelled the Mid North Coast of New South Wales.
In some areas, more than 200 mm of rain has fallen in 24 hours. At the town of Taree, low-lying areas are flooded as the Manning River reached record levels, passing the 1929 record of six metres.
At the same time, South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania and Western Australia are in drought amid some of the lowest rainfall on record.
So what is going on, and when will the wet weather end?
The wet weather in NSW is due to a combination of factors.
A trough is sitting over the Mid North Coast and stretching offshore. Troughs are areas of low pressure and can bring rain and unstable conditions. This trough is bringing extensive cloud and rain to the affected region.
In addition, winds from the east are also bringing moisture to the coast.
Since Sunday, all this has been compounded by a “cut-off low” in the upper atmosphere. These low-pressure systems are separated from the main westerly flow of winds, and often move slowly.
The combination of the trough near the ground, and low pressure at higher levels in the atmosphere, can cause air to converge and rise. As air rises it cools, moisture condenses and rain occurs.
In the next few days, the cut-off low will move away but is likely to be replaced in the same region by another upper-level low-pressure system moving in from the southwest. This will likely mean heavy rain over the east coast region in the coming days and into Friday.
On top of all this, a persistent high pressure system in the Tasman Sea is also pushing cloud onto the NSW coastline.
An upper-level low with a high in the Tasman is a typical set of conditions for flooding on the NSW Mid North Coast. Those conditions are also forecast to persist for the coming days.
The NSW north coast was quite wet in March and April – partly due to a hangover from Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
That meant the ground was already wet and full when rain began falling this week. So instead of soaking in, the water more easily turned to runoff and became floodwater.
This is in contrast to much of Australia, which was unseasonably dry and warm in March and April.
But the differences are not unusual. Australia is a big place, and rainfall dynamics are quite localised. It’s fairly common to see very wet conditions in one area and very dry conditions in another.
Unfortunately the current heavy rain in NSW probably won’t make a huge difference to drought-stricken areas. The moist air flows are likely to dry out as they cross the Great Dividing Range. But a change in weather patterns means from Sunday, rain may fall in some areas of Victoria and South Australia suffering from drought.
As the planet warms, scientists are very confident that Earth’s average surface temperature will warm, and heatwaves will get worse. However, rainfall projections are much less certain.
Projecting all types of precipitation is difficult. The water cycle is complex. Climate models – while powerful – can struggle to accurately simulate local rainfall patterns. And these patterns vary considerably over time – a natural phenomena that can make the climate trend hard to identify.
So what does this mean for autumn rainfall projections for Australia in future? None of the rainfall projections show a strong signal, and so scientists do not have high confidence in the results.
Having said this, there’s a hint of a drying trend across southwest Western Australia and parts of western Victoria and southeast South Australia, where conditions are dry now.
And for the Mid North Coast of NSW, currently experiencing heavy rain and flooding, autumn rainfall projections hint at slightly at heavier extreme rainfall.
Andrew King receives funding from the ARC Centre of Excellence for 21st Century Weather and the National Environmental Science Program.
Andrew Dowdy receives funding from University of Melbourne and is supported by the Australian Research Council.
– ref. NSW is copping rain and flooding while parts of Australia are in drought. What’s going on? – https://theconversation.com/nsw-is-copping-rain-and-flooding-while-parts-of-australia-are-in-drought-whats-going-on-257235