Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
People shop at a Walmart store in Rosemead, California, the United States, on May 15, 2025. Walmart on Thursday reported mixed results for its fiscal first quarter ending April 30, narrowly missing revenue expectations as the retailer signaled that rising tariffs are likely to lead to higher prices for consumers. [Photo/Xinhua]
Walmart on Thursday reported mixed results for its fiscal first quarter ending April 30, narrowly missing revenue expectations as the retailer signaled that rising tariffs are likely to lead to higher prices for consumers.
While the company beat earnings estimates, Walmart CEO Doug McMillon warned that current tariff levels — despite a temporary reduction on Chinese imports — are “still too high” for Walmart or its suppliers to fully absorb.
“We will do our best to keep our prices as low as possible. But given the magnitude of the tariffs, even at the reduced levels announced this week, we aren’t able to absorb all the pressure given the reality of narrow retail margins,” McMillon said Thursday on an earnings call. “The higher tariffs will result in higher prices,” he said.
Walmart’s revenue for the quarter totaled 165.61 billion U.S. dollars, up 2.5 percent from a year ago but slightly below analysts’ expectations of 165.84 billion dollars. Adjusted earnings per share came in at 61 cents, beating the forecast of 58 cents. Net income declined to 4.49 billion from 5.10 billion dollars a year earlier.
While Walmart achieved its first profitable quarter for its e-commerce operations both in the United States and globally, concerns about future pricing overshadowed the milestone. Tariffs on Chinese imports, particularly in categories like toys and electronics, continue to exert pressure, as do duties on products from countries like Costa Rica, Peru, and Colombia, which have affected prices for items such as coffee, bananas, avocados, and roses.
“We’re wired for everyday low prices, but the magnitude of these increases is more than any retailer can absorb,” Walmart Chief Financial Officer John David Rainey told CNBC. “It’s more than any supplier can absorb. And so I’m concerned that consumers are going to start seeing higher prices.”
Rainey said the impact would likely start to show toward the end of May and become more noticeable in June. Walmart is working closely with suppliers to maintain value but admitted the speed and scale of cost increases are “a little bit unprecedented.”
Trade policy remains a significant uncertainty, with about one-third of Walmart’s U.S. merchandise imported from countries including China, Mexico, and Vietnam. While Walmart has not canceled any orders due to tariff concerns, it has scaled back the size of certain shipments to adjust for anticipated changes in consumer demand tied to higher prices. Tariffs have already driven up prices on items like mattresses, toys, and strollers, contributing to higher costs for both businesses and consumers.
According to the Federal Reserve, tariffs have added approximately 0.3 percent to overall prices this year. In response, some companies are raising prices across their product lines, while others are targeting specific items. Many are choosing to remove high-cost products from their offerings altogether, rather than risk losing sales due to price resistance or being undercut by competitors.
Despite these challenges, Walmart reported decent performance last quarter. Comparable store sales rose 4.5 percent, largely driven by gains in its grocery segment. The company also reported increased spending from higher-income customers. Walmart maintained its full-year guidance, projecting sales growth of 3.5 percent to 4.5 percent for the current quarter, although it did not provide updated profit forecasts due to the volatility in trade policy. The company’s shares fell slightly in Thursday trading, reflecting investor caution amid the pricing pressures.
Bank of America analyst Robert Ohmes noted this week that Walmart is “well positioned to manage tariffs,” thanks to its strong supplier relationships and commitment to low prices. Unlike many of its competitors, Walmart sources only about 15 percent of its merchandise from China, reducing its exposure to tariff-related cost spikes. Additionally, roughly 60 percent of Walmart’s inventory consists of groceries, the majority of which are sourced domestically.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Japan’s economy contracted an annualized 0.7 percent in the first quarter of 2025, marking the first contraction in four quarters, government data showed Friday.
Quarter-on-quarter, real gross domestic product in the January-March period, adjusted for inflation, declined 0.2 percent from the October-December period, according to the Cabinet Office.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
A maiden flight from Lhasa to Pokhara is seen at Lhasa Konggar International Airport in Lhasa, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region, March 31, 2025. (Xinhua/Tenzin Nyida)
Southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region opened three new international and regional cargo flight routes in the first quarter (Q1).
The routes link Lhasa, the regional capital, to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Nepal’s capital city of Kathmandu, and Pokhara, the second-largest city in Nepal, according to the Xizang regional office of the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC).
The maiden flight from Hong Kong arrived at the Lhasa Konggar International Airport at the end of April, carrying 868 kilograms of prepackaged food and other items, including preserved prunes with dried tangerine peel, preserved ginger with plum, and loquat syrup with fritillaria extract.
“Over the years, Xizang has witnessed a sustained increase in demand for imported snacks, with consumers showing growing preference for high-quality and diverse food products,” said Tenzin, general manager of the marketing department of Xizang airport group.
“The specialty snacks in this shipment from Hong Kong will further diversify market offerings, providing consumers with more premium choices,” Tenzin added.
This batch of goods was not only the first shipment of cross-border e-commerce imported through Xizang’s aviation port, but also marked the first-ever air cargo connection between Hong Kong and the region, according to the airport customs.
“The smooth customs clearance of this shipment showed Xizang’s breakthrough in cross-border air freight channels, significantly enhancing the efficiency and competitiveness of regional cross-border trade,” said Li Shisen, director of the airport customs.
The two air routes between Lhasa and Nepal will facilitate imports of high-quality textiles and distinctive copper handicrafts from Nepal. “This strategic addition will diversify our import portfolio while strengthening bilateral trade ties,” Li added.
The new cargo flight routes have also accelerated the distribution of Xizang’s distinctive products to domestic and global markets. According to official statistics, Xizang’s civil aviation sector handled 11,375.3 tonnes of air freight in Q1, up 12.4 percent year on year.
This year, Xizang’s foreign trade has seen steady growth. In Q1, the total import and export value of the region reached 2.308 billion yuan (about 320.72 million U.S. dollars), a 5.9 percent increase compared to the same period last year, according to the customs of Lhasa.
Of the total, Xizang’s exports reached 1.95 billion yuan, remaining stable compared with last year, while its imports amounted to 358 million yuan, marking a 56.7 percent year-on-year increase.
Xizang now has a network of 79 domestic air cargo routes, and continues to strengthen logistics connectivity with other regions across the country.
“Now, fresh agricultural products like matsutake mushrooms can be delivered from the plateau to major cities across the country within 72 hours, with some cities enjoying an ultra-fast two-hour delivery service,” said Liu Jie of the Xizang branch of China Post Group Corporation Limited.
Not only domestic and international trade, but also the tourism industry in Xizang is being driven by the takeoff of the region’s civil aviation sector.
With the arrival of the peak tourist season in Xizang, which will last until the end of October, airlines have been launching new routes and increasing flight frequencies to meet the growing travel demand from domestic and international passengers. Data shows that 11 domestic and foreign airlines currently operate flights to Xizang, connecting it to 58 cities worldwide.
The ever-expanding flight network is providing residents in Xizang with more travel options than ever before.
“Today our tour group will depart from Lhasa, then travel to Pokhara and Kathmandu in sequence, before finally flying back from Kathmandu,” said Pasang, a tour guide with a local travel agency. “The launch of these new air routes has significantly reduced travel time, directly boosting our company’s business.”
According to Penpa Tsering, a regional civil aviation official, Xizang’s civil aviation sector will continue its aviation network development to achieve convenient connectivity with more cities in home and abroad.
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 16 (Xinhua) — Northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region will actively promote access to its market for high-quality goods from Central Asian countries, the Xinjiang Daily newspaper reported, citing a source at Urumqi Customs.
This readiness was documented in 18 measures recently released by Urumqi Customs to support the construction of China’s Xinjiang Pilot Free Trade Zone (FTZ).
Under the new measures, local customs authorities will be required to conduct risk analysis, draft protocols and clarify policies for agricultural products that Central Asian countries intend to export to China. Customs authorities will also speed up the inclusion of more high-quality agricultural products from Central Asian countries in the list of agricultural products approved for import by the General Administration of Customs.
Efforts will also be made to promote the diversification of sources of import of high-quality food products from Central Asian and neighboring countries, as well as to assist in expanding their range.
In addition, Urumqi Customs will strengthen technical cooperation and exchanges in inspection and quarantine safety with Central Asian countries, thus providing strong support for promoting high-quality development and high-level opening-up. -0-
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
LegCo Public Accounts Committee to hold public hearing next Monday The Legislative Council (LegCo) Public Accounts Committee (PAC) will hold the second and third public hearings on “Management of Mandatory Window Inspection Scheme by the Buildings Department” (Chapter 4) of the Director of Audit’s Report No. 84 next Monday (May 19) at 9am and 2.30pm respectively in Conference Room 1 of the LegCo Complex.
Four witnesses have been invited to appear before the above hearings to respond to points raised in the Report and answer questions asked by the PAC members.
The programme for the public hearings is as follows:(Chapter 4 of the Director of Audit’s Report No. 84) Date: May 19 (Monday) Time: 9am and 2.30pm Venue: Conference Room 1Ms Bernadette Linn Secretary for DevelopmentDeputy Secretary for Development (Planning and Lands)2Director of BuildingsDeputy Director of BuildingsIssued at HKT 11:56
The Government today said that it has no issue with people purely “checking in” or taking photos near prohibited places while passing by, provided there is no intention to endanger national security.
The Government was responding to media enquiries about reporting, photo-taking and video-shooting at locations specified prohibited places under new subsidiary legislation under the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO).
It outlined that if people deliberately take photos or footage of the entrances or interiors of prohibited places so as to inspect such places, or engage in other conduct while filming or taking pictures that gives reasonable grounds to believe that they may endanger national security, police officers or guards at these sites have the power to ask them to leave.
At a meeting of the Legislative Council subcommittee and a subsequent media session yesterday, Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung said that under section 45 of the SNSO a “specified officer” who has reasonable grounds to believe that exercising such power is necessary for safeguarding national security, may order any person to refrain from approaching or inspecting a prohibited place, including by electronic or remote means, and may order persons to leave. Any person who contravenes such an order commits an offence.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Following is the speech by the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, at the EY Entrepreneur of the Year™ 2025 Launch Ceremony today (May 16):
Jack (EY China Chairman, Mr Jack Chan), distinguished guests, fellow entrepreneurs, ladies and gentlemen,
Good afternoon. It is my great pleasure to join you today to celebrate the official launch of the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year™ 2025 programme here in Hong Kong – and to mark the significant milestone of its 20th anniversary in the Greater China region.
Over the past two decades, this programme has honoured visionary leaders who have not only built successful businesses but also inspired transformation, resilience, and innovation across industries. At the heart of every one of these stories is the spirit of entrepreneurship – the courage to dream, the drive to transform, and the determination to create meaningful change.
In many ways, these qualities mirror the story of Hong Kong itself. As Asia’s premier financial centre, Hong Kong is a place where bold ideas flourish into global businesses. With our open and internationalised market, common law system, free flow of capital and information, and a world-class talent pool, we provide one of the most dynamic platforms for entrepreneurs to launch, scale, and succeed.
We are also evolving with the times. As our country continues to advance high-quality development, Hong Kong is seizing new opportunities – from promoting green and sustainable finance, to accelerating digital transformation and Web3 innovation.
To support this vision, the Government is undertaking a series of strategic initiatives to foster new quality productive forces. These include strengthening our capital markets, enhancing cross-boundary financial connectivity under the Greater Bay Area, and promoting emerging sectors such as green fintech, virtual assets, and artificial intelligence.
But at the core of this transformation is our unwavering support for entrepreneurs – especially those in small and medium enterprises, the true backbone of our economy.
We are facilitating access to finance for SMEs (small and medium enterprises) through platforms such as the Commercial Data Interchange, which enables businesses to share their data with banks to unlock trade financing opportunities. Over 50 000 loan applications, amounting to $41.9 billion, have already been processed since the launch of the Interchange.
We are nurturing innovation ecosystems with tools like Fintech Connect, which bridges financial institutions with cutting-edge fintech solution providers. On green finance, we have launched the Green and Sustainable Fintech Proof-of-Concept Funding Scheme, supporting 60 pioneering projects with early-stage funding.
And we are investing in talent development – from training subsidies for fintech practitioners, to capacity-building schemes in green and sustainable finance. These efforts not only empower individuals but also expand the talent pipeline for the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Entrepreneurship is also about vision – not only seeing what others don’t, but also at the same time believing in what could be done. That is why we are also embracing frontier technologies. The Generative AI Sandbox, co-launched by the HKMA (Hong Kong Monetary Authority) and Cyberport, is helping banks test innovations in a risk-managed environment so as to enhance fraud prevention, compliance, and customer service across the sector.
We are also laying the groundwork for the future of digital finance, including a regulatory regime for stablecoins and a forthcoming policy statement on the development of virtual assets – all designed to support responsible innovation while safeguarding market integrity.
Ladies and gentlemen, as we celebrate two decades of EY’s Entrepreneur Of The Year™ programme, we are reminded that entrepreneurship is not just about building businesses; it’s about building a better future. Hong Kong will continue to stand with our entrepreneurs, as a launchpad for ideas, a platform for innovation, and a partner in growth.
I would like to thank EY, Jack and his team for its unwavering commitment to recognising and empowering entrepreneurial leaders, and I look forward to seeing this year’s nominees continue to push boundaries and turn bold aspirations into reality. Thank you, and I wish the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year™ 2025 programme every success.
The Transport & Logistics Bureau has expressed concern over illegal hire car services being provided by online car hailing platforms, and will meet the platforms’ representatives today to reiterate the need for their operations to comply with the law.
Together with the Transport Department, the bureau held a two-hour meeting with the taxi trade yesterday.
In a frank exchange of views, the Government took note of the trade’s views on improving service quality, regulating online car hailing platforms, and combating the illegal carriage of passengers for hire or reward.
After the meeting, the bureau received a petition letter with signatures from the taxi trade. It will carefully review the letter and maintain close communication with the trade.
The bureau is pressing ahead at full speed with a legislative proposal to regulate online car hailing platforms, with a view to ensuring safe and convenient point-to-point services for citizens and tourists.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.
Released 16/05/2025
Canberrans are being called upon to deepen their knowledge of the law as the ACT prepares for its annual Law Week.
Running 16 to 23 May, the week includes a range of events to promote public understanding of the law and its role in society. The theme for 2025 is “exploring law, engaging communities, inspiring change”.
Attorney-General Tara Cheyne said with the government in the process of progressing important reforms, Law Week provides a timely opportunity for the community to learn more about the justice system and how it works.
“The law intersects with almost every aspect of our lives, although many of us don’t think about it until it affects us personally. Law Week is a chance for us to reflect on our unique legal system and acknowledge its important role in our society,” the Attorney-General said.
“Australia’s legal system is one of the key elements that ensure we live in a free and fair society that finely balances individual rights and community safety.
“The ACT Government is currently consulting on important bail reforms which would seek to improve the framework within which judicial officers need to make often complex decisions. To find out more or provide input visit www.yoursayconversations.act.gov.au/bail-reform.
“Another key initiative is the proposed introduction of an indicative sentencing framework, which has the potential to streamline criminal court proceedings, reduce uncertainty for defendants and victims, and allow for faster access to support services.
Law Week events in Canberra are being delivered by the ACT Law Society and its partners. This year they are also raising funds for Roundabout Canberra.
In addition to fundraising events there are also a number of free educational events, including a series of events for high school and college students at the ACT Courts on Friday 23 May, including:
Mock jury empanelment: An interactive role play highlighting the jury process and guided by Sheriff’s Officers.
Mock bail hearing: You be the judge, a simulated court hearing delivered in an engaging, educational format.
Local justice organisations: An exhibit of organisations that work in the justice sector, with visits from Court Support Canines.
Educational court tours: Showing students the ACT Courts’ history and what happens inside a courtroom.
Quotes attributable to Benjamin Wickham, CEO at ACT Courts and Tribunals:
“This is our third annual open day as part of Law Week. As well as the mock bail hearing, our Sheriffs will guide students through the jury empanelment process, and we will have a cohort of local justice agencies onsite to give visitors information about the vital services they provide to the community.
“The aim of this open day is to give people a view behind the scenes of the courts. Coming before a judge or a magistrate can be extremely stressful, and the open day gives people an opportunity to see how the justice system works and hopefully take away some of the fear and anxiety that people have about what happens here.”
Local verges and gardens will soon be greener, with our popular Wannagrow plant giveaway returning next month.
Wanneroo Deputy Mayor James Rowe said this year’s giveaway would see 8,000 free verge-friendly plants handed out to residents, to support biodiversity and urban greening across the City.
“There will be volunteers from the Wildflower Society of WA on hand to provide expert advice and help distribute a selection of waterwise native plants for your garden,” he said.
“Our Wannagrow program is just one of the ways we are working to create a more liveable, waterwise City for all residents.”
City of Wanneroo residents are eligible for 10 plants each, via a convenient drive-through collection. Pre-registration is essential and proof of residency will be required.
This initiative is proudly co-funded by Water Corporation’s Waterwise Greening Scheme.
CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan — The III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group concluded Exercise Kaiju Rain 25 on May 12 with a closing ceremony, marking a significant step forward in advancing the Marine Corps’ operations across the information environment in the Indo-Pacific.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cristyn Davies, Senior Research Fellow in the Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney
Triggered by hormonal changes in the brain and body, puberty marks a physical transformation. Oestrogen and testosterone – often called “sex hormones” – drive many familiar changes, such as breast development and periods or a deeper voice and facial hair.
For most young people, the pubertal changes they experience align with their gender. However, for trans and gender diverse adolescents, these changes can be distressing and may lead to a sense of disconnection from their true sense of self.
(We’ll use the term “trans” in this article to refer to transgender and gender diverse people.)
Why do young trans people use sex hormones?
To support trans adolescents, oestrogen and testosterone may be used to induce physical changes that better align with their gender.
Oestrogen stimulates breast development, alters body fat distribution, results in softer skin, and reduces facial and body hair, creating a more feminine appearance.
Testosterone deepens the voice, increases facial and body hair, promotes muscle growth and stops periods, creating a more masculine appearance.
Many trans people start taking sex hormones as adults.
For those who start as adolescents, hormones are introduced when a young person is considered to have the intellectual and emotional maturity to make this decision.
The starting age also varies depending on the person’s preferences, family support and barriers to accessing care. These barriers include long wait times, regional disparities, costs, legal or policy restrictions, and challenges navigating the health system, all of which make it harder to get timely, reliable care.
Before starting hormone therapy, trans adolescents undergo comprehensive assessment and counselling with a team of mental health professionals and medical doctors who specialise in transgender health. This helps ensure young people understand the potential benefits, limitations, risks, and long-term implications of treatment.
This process involves their family and is designed to provide time, support and space for shared, informed decision-making.
Young trans people undergo comphrensive assessments and counselling before they start taking sex hormones. Sandra van der Steen/Shutterstock
Treatment with sex hormones usually begins with low doses, after which adjustments are made over time under regular clinical monitoring.
Subsequent physical changes occur gradually over several years, as is true for puberty, and some of these are irreversible. Breast growth or a deepened voice, for example, will persist if treatment is stopped.
What are the benefits?
The largest study to date followed 315 trans and gender diverse adolescents for two years after starting oestrogen or testosterone. It found a significant increase in how comfortable participants felt about their appearance. This was accompanied by significant improvements in life satisfaction and reductions in depression and anxiety.
More recently, Australian youth mental health research centre Orygen conducted a review of the overall evidence. It reported sex hormone treatment for young trans people is associated with body image satisfaction and reduced psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety and suicide attempts, thoughts and/or planning.
An independent review of the evidence commissioned by NSW Health reported similar conclusions and found sex hormone therapy was associated with reduced gender dysphoria, which is the distress experienced when a person’s gender identity differs from their sex reported at birth.
Together, these published outcomes are consistent with decades of clinical and lived experience that young trans people report feeling more at ease in their bodies, more confident in social settings, and more optimistic about their future after starting hormones.
What about unwanted effects?
Like all medical treatments, sex hormone therapy involves the potential for unwanted effects.
Oestrogen, for example, can increase the risk of blood clots and breast cancer in the long-term, but the overall risk appears low.
Testosterone can increase acne as well as the number of red blood cells the body produces. Too many red cells can make a person’s blood too thick and increase the likelihood of a stroke or heart attack. Monitoring red cell counts and adjusting the dose of testosterone helps reduce these risks.
Given the possibility that trans adolescents might wish to stay on hormone treatment long-term, they are usually offered fertility counselling before starting treatment. The option to freeze sperm or eggs exists, although access and affordability can be a challenge.
One unwanted effect that has received a lot of attention relates to regret. There is fear adolescents who start hormone treatment will regret this decision later on.
At this stage, the risk of regret among adolescents starting hormone therapy appears low. Harvard researchers recently followed a cohort of 1,050 adolescents who had received hormone therapy, and only one was noted to have expressed regret.
However, the risk of regret is inherent to any medical treatment. Allowing adolescents the dignity of risk to make their own decisions respects their autonomy.
Sex hormones have been used in trans adolescents since at least the 1980s, and so far the evidence suggests these treatments are safe and work well for those who receive them. Nonetheless, long-term research into their safety (and effectiveness) is ongoing and essential.
What about consent?
Past decisions of the Family Court of Australia established a requirement for both parents to provide consent for their trans adolescent to access hormonal treatments, treating this care as legally exceptional.
However, a 2022 decision of the Queensland Supreme Court ruled an adolescent, who is under the age of 18 and has sufficient understanding and intelligence to consent for themselves, could consent to their own hormone treatment.
Despite this, some gender clinics still require consent from both parents. If there’s a dispute between parents, the matter should be taken to court, to reach a resolution based on the adolescent’s best interests.
Testosterone and oestrogen therapy are not new or experimental. They are grounded in decades of clinical practice and growing evidence. What is new is the public attention. We need to ensure policies and conversations are based on facts, not fear.
Cristyn Davies reports voluntarily being co-chair of the Human Rights Council of Australia; co-chair of the Child and Youth Special Interest Group for the Public Health Association of Australia; President of the Australian Association For Adolescent Health; an ambassador to Twenty10 Incorporating the Gay and Lesbian Counselling Service of New South Wales; and co-chair of the research committee for the Australian Professional Association for Trans Health.
Blake Cavve is a senior research officer at The Kids Research Institute Australia and an adjunct researcher at The University of Western Australia, with ongoing research collaborations with the Child and Adolescent Health Service. Blake has recieved funding from the Perth Children’s Hospital Foundation and the Raine Medical Research Foundation. He is a member of the Australian Professional Association for Trans Health, and the World Professional Association for Transgender Health.
Ken Pang is a Senior Principal Research Fellow at the Murdoch Children’s Research Insititute and a paediatrician at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne. He receives research funding from the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council and the Medical Research Future Fund. He is a member of the Australian Professional Association for Trans Health, the World Professional Association for Transgender Health, and the editorial board of the journal, Transgender Health.
Michele O’Connell is paediatric endocrinologist at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne. She is a co-investigator on research studies funded by the Medical Research Future Fund and a member of the Australian Professional Association for Trans Health.
Rachel Skinner receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council’s Medical Research Future Fund and the Australian Research Council for related research. She is an adolescent medicine paediatrician employed by the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network and provides clinical care to trans young people. She has professional memberships with the Royal Australasian College of Physicians, the Australian Association of Adolescent Health, the Society of Adolescent Health and Medicine, the Australian Professional Association of Transgender Health and the World Professional Association of Transgender Health.
A group of offenders were no match for one Sergeant during a foot pursuit in Manukau.
In the process, thousands of dollars in products that had just been stolen was recovered.
Around 4.30pm on Wednesday, the on-duty Sergeant was conducting prevention patrols in the Manukau Westfield carpark, when a group of young people were seen running from the mall carrying handfuls of clothing.
“The officer saw the youths running and being pursued by mall security and a few other people,” Counties Manukau Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Warrick Adkin says.
“He quickly parked his patrol car and started to give chase as well, following the alleged offenders onto Ronwood Ave.”
Once there the group took the opportunity to board a stationary bus in the hopes of making a swift exit, however the pursuing officer was only one step away.
“Our Sergeant has boarded the bus right after them and managed to herd eight or so into the back, preventing their escape,” Inspector Adkin explains.
The officer kept all the alleged offenders contained until back up arrived and could give him a helping hand.
Inspector Adkin says quick thinking and an impressive running pace, resulted in the recovery of over $2500 worth of clothing, and around $300 worth of cosmetics from varying retailers.
The young people, all aged between 10 and 15 years, were all apprehended and the loot was returned to the stores.
Source: Secondary teachers question rationale for changes to relationship education guidelines
When you visit the newly updated Tiaki Tāmaki Makaurau | Conservation Auckland website, you’re stepping into more than just a page of information; you’re entering a space where mana whenua provides guidance for community conservation within their rohe (tribal area).
It’s a powerful reminder that protecting the environment in Tāmaki Makaurau isn’t just a technical task, it’s a deeply cultural, ancestral and collaborative journey.
This important addition to the website marks the latest chapter in an evolving partnership between Auckland Council and mana whenua.
An Auckland Council Senior Community Advisor, Sandra Jack, says we’ve always known caring for the environment is about relationships.
“The new content makes it easier for people to connect with mana whenua and understand their role as kaitiaki while supporting our shared conservation goals.
“This journey recognises mātauranga (knowledge), not as an add-on, but as a foundation pillar for environmental stewardship.”
The content wasn’t created in isolation. It was co-designed with the Interim Mana Whenua Engagement Forum, with guidance from representatives Gavin Anderson (Ngaati Whanaunga) and Adrian Pettit (Te Ākitai Waiohua).
The result: a more authentic reflection of iwi values, bringing to life stories of place, practices of care and the wisdom of generations.
“Kua eke te wā, me noho mātāmua ko te whakaaro nui ki te Taiao i ngā mahi katoa.
“No longer will things happen without consideration of the impact within te taiao,” (nā Hokimai-Anahera Rosieur, Ngāti Manuhiri).
Samantha Hill, General Manager of Environmental Services, sees the website as more than a communications tool.
“This project has given us an opportunity to respond to mana whenua aspirations, learn from mana whenua and be trusted to safely share the knowledge with the wider community,” she says.
“This isn’t just about a website—it’s about how we work together,” Sandra adds.
Highlights of the initiative include relevant information on iwi of the region and how to engage with them, new imagery celebrating te taiao (the natural world), the integration of Te Haumanu Taiao tohu (emblem) of restoration and care and richer explanations of kaitiakitanga (the spiritual and cultural environmental practices).
In a world where people are increasingly aware of our environmental impact, this collaboration offers a way forward. It shows what’s possible when relationships are built on trust, respect and a willingness to partner. Mana whenua, council and community are united in care for the whenua and future generations.
For more information visit the Tiaki Tāmaki Makaurau website.
Minister of Transport Chris Bishop has welcomed funding to proceed with groundwork and geotechnical investigations for the next section of the State Highway 2 Hawke’s Bay Expressway Road of National Significance project.
“The expressway is a vital link for the whole region and for road users from neighbouring regions. Progress on the next section of the project – which will better connect Napier to Hastings and increase growth and productivity – is good news for a region with massive economic potential but which is still recovering from Cyclone Gabrielle.
“NZ Transport Agency’s board has confirmed $7.65 million for the work, which will enable the project team to begin early ground improvements alongside Ngaruroro River Bridge and geotechnical investigations in section 2 of the project,” Mr Bishop says.
“This funding will make more efficient and reliable travel another step closer.
“When that work begins, crews will repurpose safe, tested silt from the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle, provided free by Hastings District Council to raise the level of the land and create a wide, flat surface – just like the work already completed alongside Tutaekuri River Bridge and the Kennedy Road overpass.
“That silt will then be left to settle for 12 months prior to additional construction work starting, subject to further approvals, consents and funding.
“The latest funding will also allow geotechnical investigations at Ngaruroro River Bridge and other locations. Geotechnical investigations are really important for this project – they help to determine the detailed design.
“Work is well underway onsite within the first section of the project, and on the detailed design work needed for that first section. Section 1 of the project focusses on Taradale Road to Pākōwhai Road, which has been identified as the most congested section of the expressway.
“I’m confident that by starting early groundwork and investigations for the next part of the project soon, we can get section 2 shovel-ready for main works construction, pending further approvals and funding by the NZTA board.
“I know how important this project is to get commuters and freight moving through the region more quickly and more safely.”
While this funding allows NZTA to get on with section 2 investigations and ground conditions, an investment case is in development for the remainder of the project (including section 2 improvements), which will determine decisions on next steps.
Notes to Editor:
· Section 1 of the project spans from the Taradale Road to Pākōwhai Road roundabouts.
· Section 2 of the project stretches from Pākōwhai Road to York Road roundabouts in the south and Taradale Road to Prebensen Drive roundabouts in the north.
· Prebensen Drive to York Road is the busiest stretch of the expressway, with the most problematic intersections, and it connects the main urban areas of Napier and Hastings.
· Construction of the main works on section 1 are expected to start in late 2025, subject to consents and funding, and be completed in late 2027.
· An investment case is in development for the remainder of the project (including section 2 improvements). This Corridor Investment Case will be completed later this year, and a decision will be made on whether to proceed to detailed design
Using a range of estimation methods, we find that a 1% appreciation in the Trade Weighted Index (TWI) for the New Zealand dollar exchange rate can lead to a 0.004 to 0.01% decline in ex-fuel tradables prices within one quarter. In the long run, it can lead to a 0.05 to 0.3% decline in ex-fuel tradables prices. These estimates of incomplete pass-through are in line with estimates obtained for inflation-targeting economies in the related literature.
Asymmetries in exchange rate pass-through can arise in different economic environments and across time. For example, pass-through tends to be stronger when the output gap is materially positive than when it is materially negative.
We develop monthly indicators of economic activity in New Zealand from granular data measuring traffic counts for both heavy and light traffic. Our indicators are highly correlated with New Zealand’s official measure of aggregate economic activity – Gross Domestic Product. Our indicators can be disaggregated into regional components at a daily frequency, highlighting variation that would remain masked in aggregate measures. These traffic indices provide an independent check on other high-frequency economic indicators, offer better monitoring of regional disparities in economic activity, and support timely policy advice in response to economic shocks. However, the higher volatility of these traffic indices means that they require careful interpretation, and these traffic indices should be used as part of a broader suite of economic indicators.
The Analytical Notes series encompasses a range of background papers prepared by Reserve Bank staff. Unless otherwise stated, views expressed are those of the authors, and do not necessarily represent the views of the Reserve Bank.
In an ever-changing world, our research into different dimensions of the New Zealand economy is the bedrock enabling us to make well-informed policy decisions. The RBNZ plays a central role in the New Zealand economy, setting monetary policy to support price stability, and acting as kaitiaki (guardians) of the financial system. To achieve our mandate, we draw on a comprehensive body of research into the New Zealand economy, which asks big questions ranging from how individual firms set their prices to what the future of money will look like in Aotearoa. Our researchers use advanced statistical techniques and macroeconomic modelling to unravel the intricate relationships between businesses, financial markets, and people that shape the New Zealand economy. The insights from our research provide us with the understanding and confidence to make appropriate policy decisions for the benefit of New Zealanders, and also equip us to respond to future shocks.
With cleantech critical to both climate mitigation and economic growth, a visit to Singapore last week by six New Zealand cleantech companies, a Venture Capital firm and the MacDiarmid Institute, couldn’t have come at a more important time.
OpenStar Technologies, TasmanIon, Nilo, Cetogenix, Mushroom Material, Allegro Energy (now Australia-based) and BridgeWest Ventures travelled as part of the “Cleantech Trek” to attend The Liveability Challenge and Cleantech Forum Asia, where they met with investors and multinational partners.
“It’s huge that these NZ startups-some named in the Asia Forum’s ‘APAC Cleantech 25’-have developed technologies with the potential to help transition the world to a greener economy,” said Natalie Plank, MacDiarmid Institute Deputy Director Commercialisation and Industry Engagement.
The APAC Cleantech 25 recognises forward-thinking companies developing and deploying breakthrough environmental solutions, while driving economic growth and technological progress across the Asia-Pacific region.
Dr Plank said the opportunity for the companies to be part of the wider Cleantech ecosystem in Singapore, to seek investment and to partner with multinational partners, comes at a significant time.
“The world needs climate mitigation technologies like never before. Singapore offers a chance to connect with investors and global players who can help scale New Zealand cleantech into international supply chains and energy infrastructure.”
Dr Ratu Mataira, Founder and CEO of fusion startup OpenStar, said that Aotearoa had built a reputation for building creative technologies that support a greener future.
“We’ve seen that in companies like Lanzatech, and it’s unsurprising a new crop of Kiwi startups feature so strongly on this list. In our field of fusion, Kiwis were here at the start with Rutherford, and they will be here at the end with OpenStar.”
The importance of cleantech to the future New Zealand economy
Cleantech industries are rapidly emerging as a cornerstone of the global economy. The World Economic Forum describes them as “the enablers of our future decarbonised energy system” and recognises them as “a major economic factor.”
Michelle Polglase, GM of Project Delivery at Ara Ake, highlights a recent Boston Consulting Group report that identifies “Green Tech” as a key growth sector for New Zealand. “We already have many of the ingredients for a thriving cleantech ecosystem,” she says, “including research institutes, innovative startups, incubators and private investors.”
The cleantech sector is scaling rapidly around the world. Global investment reached more than US$40 billion in 2023, and the International Energy Agency projects that spending on clean energy will rise from US$1.8 trillion in 2023 to US$4.5 trillion annually by the early 2030s under its ‘net zero pathway’ scenario.
The New Zealand Cleantech Mission is helping local companies tap into this global opportunity. Now in its third Cleantech Trek – a series of visits to leading cleantech companies regionally and overseas – the Mission is backed by foundational sponsors Ara Ake and the MacDiarmid Institute, continuing work originally supported by Callaghan Innovation.
“We’d love to see more clean energy companies from New Zealand on the world stage,” says Michelle Polglase. “To get there, they need commercialisation support, growth capital and strong global connections.”
Repealing the Plain Language Act 2022 would mark a major step backwards for people with intellectual disability to easily access important information, says IHC.
In its submission earlier this week to the Governance and Administration Committee, IHC says that people with intellectual disability benefit from plain language, as they are among those most likely to be assessed as having low literacy in reading and writing.
The purpose of the Plain Language Act is to promote the use of plain language among public service agencies and Crown agents to improve the accessibility of public documents. In this Act, plain language means language that is appropriate to the intended audience; and clear, concise, and well organised.
Dr Nicolina Newcombe, IHC’s Inclusion Advisor, says the use of plain language helps people with intellectual disability to understand complex information.
“Plain language also saves time and money. Since the Act was introduced, many agencies have taken positive steps to improve the quality of government communication. To repeal the Act now risks the undoing of all the gains. Experience shows that in a fiscally constrained environment, anything not mandated is at risk of being de-prioritised. If necessary, the Act could be revised, to increase its practical impact.”
Members of an IHC-facilitated Easy Read Advisory Group, made up of people with an intellectual disability, were consulted for their responses to the potential repeal of the Plain Language Act. These are their voices.
“Don’t change it, it needs to be plain language.” Dianne Pelvin
“It makes me feel out of place not to use plain language, otherwise you will be thinking, ‘what on Earth are you talking about’. It’s common sense. Easy English is better, especially for people like us.” Virginia Hika
“They [government workers] do not use plain language [currently], they use big words, they do not understand what is wrong [with the way they talk and write] or what they are saying.” Waata Houia
“It’s not really OK to stop that, how will people like us understand all the jargon? Very hard, hard words and sentences puts us all out.” Kaye McMurray
“Ultimately it is these voices that IHC wants the government to listen to most closely as it considers the repeal of this Act”, says Nicolina. “We implore the government to vote down the Plain Language Act Repeal Bill, then strengthen the Plain Language Act.”
About IHC New Zealand
IHC New Zealand advocates for the rights, inclusion and welfare of all people with intellectual disabilities and supports them to live satisfying lives in the community. IHC provides advocacy, volunteering, events, membership associations and fundraising. It is part of the IHC Group, which also includes IDEA Services, Choices NZ and Accessible Properties.
Former Greens leader Adam Bandt’s 15-year career in federal parliament came to an end in a nondescript park in Melbourne, far from the seat of power in Canberra.
He was there to concede defeat in the federal election. In one fell swoop, Bandt had lost his seat, his party’s leadership, his vocation and his living.
As a defeated MP, he was denied the opportunity to deliver a valedictory speech in parliament, which is available to politicians who go out on their own terms.
Instead, he stood in a garden, reflecting on his career highs and lows and thanking his family and supporters.
Adam Bandt draws his 15-year parliamentary career to a close after conceding defeat in his seat of Melbourne.
Bandt wasn’t the only high-profile politician whose career was cut short without the formal opportunity to say goodbye to parliament.
At least 14 other MPs, including Peter Dutton, Bridget Archer, David Coleman, Michael Sukkar and Zoe Daniel, were sent on their way by voters without a valedictory to help draw a line under their parliamentary service.
Rite of passage
Valedictory speeches are vital for democratic renewal, because they help MPs navigate the complex changeover from the all-consuming role of a parliamentarian to life after politics.
In this regard, they are similar to other rituals, such as graduations, weddings and even funerals, which help participants and observers make sense of major life transitions. This is why valedictory speeches are a cherished rite of passage for many departing members.
Bill Shorten planned his retirement from politics and gave a valedictory speech in November 2024. He knew he was one of the fortunate ones:
In 123 years of the storied history of the Parliament of the Commonwealth of Australia, 1,244 individuals have been elected to the House of Representatives, each introduced themselves in their first speech […] But only 216 ever got the chance to say goodbye, to give a valedictory. Political life can be tough. Election defeat, scandal, illness, Section 44. So today, I stand here neither defeated nor disposed, lucky to have served, fortunate to be able to say goodbye and thank you.
While first speeches have a long history in parliament, it was only in the 1980s that valedictory speeches became widely available to departing MPs and senators.
Since then, valedictories have become one of the signature personal moments in a parliamentary career. They are often celebratory, friendly and funny in tone. Unsurprisingly, these speeches tend to be the most autobiographical – and frank – an MP will give in their career.
On their way out, members speak with less constraint. Cross-party friendships are frequently noted. Some speak about the enormous sacrifices made by their spouses and children, and moments of personal loss.
Life after politics
We interviewed 39 former members of the Victorian parliament in 2020 about their experiences leaving parliament.
Many spoke of valedictory speeches being important touchstones in their transition to life post-parliament.
One former MP who gave a valedictory told us they “went out in the best way possible”:
My valedictory speech was probably one of the best speeches I’ve ever made, and I still go back and watch it occasionally […] My kids were there, and family were there. It was just a really nice way to finish up with a funny speech. Then everyone lines up on both sides to shake your hand.
No closure
For some who missed out, the absence of the ritual contributed to ongoing negative feelings about parliament and their political career generally.
Many former MPs experienced financial and emotional stress in their life on “civvy street”. Many found it difficult to establish an identity or career after politics.
For involuntary leavers, the difficulties of electoral loss can be compounded by the sense of exclusion from one of the key transitional practices, leading to a sense of alienation. One former MP we interviewed recalled:
One thing I did miss […] was I didn’t get to do a last speech. Very sad that I wasn’t able to round it off. There’s no closure and it’s almost like you’re just kicked out, here’s your basket of things from your desk and off you go.
New rituals
Given strangers are not permitted on the floor of the House or Senate, it is not possible for the vanquished to deliver conventional valedictories after an election.
Parliament should consider giving these former members and senators a comparable transitional process to draw a line under their political careers.
Some progress has been made. Since 2010, federal members who lost their seats can provide a written statement in lieu of a speech. A booklet of these statements is presented to the House early in the new parliament.
We recommended to the Parliament of Victoria that a valedictory event be held in the Queen’s Hall or another formal location.
Not all members want to go back to parliament – some may prefer to say goodbye in a local park.
But for those who do, this can be an important observance to mark the end of their contribution to public life and their identity as a parliamentarian.
Amy Nethery received funding from the Parliament of Victoria in 2020 to examine former MP’s experiences of the transition to life after parliament.
Peter Ferguson received funding from the Parliament of Victoria in 2020 to examine former MP’s experiences of the transition to life after parliament.
Zim Nwokora received funding from the Parliament of Victoria in 2020 to examine former MP’s experiences of the transition to life after parliament.
Source: Police investigating after shots fired at Hastings house
Date: 16 May 2025
“We know how much this iconic walk is valued and how much people love to visit and walk it, so we’ve worked hard to keep the lower part of the track open,” says Aoraki Mount Cook Operations Manager Sally Jones.
“There is an elevated viewing site looking over Mueller Lake and visitors can still walk up the stunning Hooker Valley past the first suspension bridge which is about an hour’s return from the carpark at White Horse Hill.
“We will have to keep the upper part of the track closed while the construction takes place as there are helicopters carrying big loads flying overhead. It’s a worksite and keeping people safe is our number one priority.”
Sally Jones says the well-known track to Kea Point is also still open and visitors can enjoy the iconic views of Aoraki and other mountains close by.
“Kea Point is not as popular, but the views are just as spectacular as the Hooker Valley. For those who with the skills and fitness seeking a more challenging walk, there is also the trek up to Sealy Tarn, to Mueller Hut and the walk up to the Tasman blue lakes.”
Work is underway to get the Hooker Valley Track fully open. Once built, a huge new suspension bridge will span 189 metres across the river. It will replace an older bridge which had to be closed last month due to riverbank erosion near the bridge supports.
DOC contractors have been on site to block off access to the old bridge and to keep visitors away from what is now a construction site and must be treated as such.
Construction work will continue for the rest of this year, and it’s hoped the new bridge will be open by next Autumn.
“It’s a huge and challenging project and will be a tourist attraction in its own right,” says Sally Jones.
The cables that will be flown in are massive and the whole thing will be spectacular to watch. We can’t wait until it’s open.”
Incredible landscapes, nature, and cultural heritage make Aoraki Mount Cook one of the top two most popular national parks in Aotearoa (alongside Fiordland). It attracts over a million visitors a year and is on the itineraries of about 21% of international visitors.
Map of the current closures on the Hooker Valley Track
New Zealand will host leaders from across the Pacific next week, Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters and Pacific Peoples Minister Dr Shane Reti have announced.
“New Zealand is a Pacific country, and regular face-to-face dialogue is a crucial underpinning for our relationships throughout our region,” Mr Peters says.
The Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum Baron Waqa will visit New Zealand, engaging with Mr Peters and Dr Reti, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts and a range of MPs from across Parliament.
“New Zealand’s membership of the Forum underpins much of our engagement in the region,” Mr Peters says.
“Secretary-General Waqa’s visit will be an opportunity to discuss the Forum’s work on regional priorities, including health, education, security, and the environment.”
Ulu o Tokelau Esera Tuisano will make his first official visit to New Zealand, ahead of New Zealand and Tokelau marking a centenary of their constitutional relationship next year.
“New Zealand and Tokelau have enjoyed close ties for nearly a century. We are united by our shared New Zealand citizenship and mutual obligations and responsibilities,” Mr Peters says.
New Zealand will also host the Council of the University of the South Pacific in Auckland on 19-21 May. The meeting brings together 12 Pacific countries to guide the direction of the leading tertiary provider in the Pacific.
“Our role as host reflects our steadfast commitment to advancing tertiary education and research through Pacific regionalism,” Dr Reti says.
Mr Peters will also meet with Tuvalu Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Panapasi Nelesone. He will reaffirm New Zealand’s commitment to supporting Tuvalu’s development priorities, including economic resilience.
Police wasted no time taking to the sky following a concerning call from a member of the public whose father suffering from dementia had gone missing.
Just before 1am, Police were informed of man in his 80s with dementia who had gone missing in the Ōrere Point area.
Counties Manukau South Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Matt Hoyes says the man hadn’t been seen for several hours and Police had several concerns for his wellbeing.
“The information we received indicated several risk factors, including his limited mobility and the fact he was unfamiliar with the surrounding area, which backs onto Ōrere Point Beach.
“Given the remote location, the Police Eagle helicopter was promptly deployed to assist in the search.
“Eagle quickly got up and was very quickly able to locate the missing man in the nearby bush area.”
Inspector Hoyes says tactical flight officers aboard Eagle guided the informant to his father’s location just prior to ground staff arriving.
“Eagle’s prompt response to this incident was no doubt instrumental in ensuring this man was located swiftly and safely.
“This was a great example of multiple Police resources working together for the greater good, it’s not always about apprehending offenders, a huge part of our role is looking out for one another.”
Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski
05.15.25
Washington, DC – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) engaged with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to discuss the reorganization of HHS programs that assist vulnerable Alaskans including Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Head Start, and community-based programs that support survivors of domestic violence.
Watch Senator Murkowski’s opening statement here.
Read the Senator’s transcript below:
TRANSCRIPT
Murkowski: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Secretary, welcome, good to see you. I want to talk a little bit about the HHS reorganization on some of the programs that impact Alaska’s most vulnerable populations. I sent you a note letting you know that just after this hearing, I’m going to be chairing a Senate Committee on Indian Affairs [hearing] specifically examining HHS Tribal programs that are outside of IHS [Indian Health Service]. I really thank you for your early efforts to exempt IHS healthcare providers from the RIFs [reductions in force], that was very important.
But, I’ve also heard concerns from Tribal leaders on the impacts of RIFs to key HHS programs serving their communities. So, I know you’re going to have some of your folks tuning in on that, and I really appreciate that. But some of the other reductions that we’re looking at within your budget do have significant consequences to a state like mine.
One is the LIHEAP program, the low-income energy assistance. For us it’s not a budget line item. You’ve been to Alaska. You know that the temperatures there can get really, really tough. [LIHEAP] keeps people from freezing to death in their homes.
Another program is NIOSH, and I know that HHS had rescinded a number of those employees, that was great news. But employees that received RIF notices for the program were not rescinded in the NIOSH center for Marine Safety and Health Studies. So, this is a big deal for our commercial fishing safety. It could effectively leave our fishing fleet out of compliance with Coast Guard safety [regulations], so we’re watching that very, very carefully. And then again, shared focus here on making sure that our children are as healthy as they possibly can be. I want to look to ways that we can strengthen and not eliminate the Head Start program.
Kennedy: You’re talking about the NIOSH program? You should talk to me about that. As you know, that’s something that I’m deeply concerned with, with the commercial fisheries. So, we should talk about it. Let’s work for the solution.
Murkowski: Got it. I am with you right there.
Let me ask about domestic violence and sexual assault funding. Right now, I’m talking and I’m receiving a lot of incoming from our community-based domestic and sexual violence program operators. They’re really concerned about the delayed release of FY 25 funding, the absence of notices of funding opportunities, as well as proposed cuts or consolidations that might threaten the Office of Family Violence Prevention and CDC’s Division of Violence Prevention. So, you’ve got some programs there that are really foundational to domestic and sexual violence. They’ve been reauthorized with bipartisan support.
So, I’m going to enter into the record a letter from the National Task Force [to end Sexual and Domestic Violence], and it was sent to you yesterday, just urging the communication of concrete plans for releasing some of these funds. I want to raise that to your level, but I want to make sure that we’re sending the right signal to so many who are just really on the edge with, again, these community-based services that are helping the most vulnerable of the most vulnerable. So, we’ve got the funding that’s out there. It’s just delayed. We need help releasing that.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ami Bera (D-CA)
Today, U.S. Representative Ami Bera, M.D. (D-CA-06), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on East Asia and Pacific, introduced the U.S.–Japan–ROK Trilateral Cooperation Act, bipartisan legislation to deepen cooperation between the United States, Japan, and the Republic of Korea (ROK).
Joining Congressman Bera in leading this effort are Representatives Gerry Connolly (D-VA-11), Joaquin Castro (D-TX-20), Joe Wilson (R-SC-02), Adrian Smith (R-NE-03) and Mike Kelly (R-PA-16). Bera, Connolly, Wilson and Kelly serve as co-chairs of the Congressional Korea Caucus, while Castro and Smith serve as co-chairs of the Congressional Japan Caucus.
“As we face growing threats in the Indo-Pacific, now is the time to invest in our closest alliances rooted in democratic values,” said Representative Bera. “This legislation builds on the momentum from the Camp David Summit by creating permanent channels of communication and coordination between our three legislative bodies. Routine inter-parliamentary dialogue will help ensure the United States, Japan and South Korea continue to meet shared challenges together—promoting a free, open, inclusive, resilient and healthy Indo-Pacific region that safeguards our mutual security and prosperity for decades to come.”
The U.S.–Japan–ROK Trilateral Cooperation Act establishes a formal U.S.–Japan–ROK Inter-Parliamentary Dialogue to address shared challenges.
The legislation reflects the commitments made at the August 2023 Camp David Trilateral Summit and underscores Congress’s role in turning those commitments into lasting policy and institutional cooperation.
“Trilateral cooperation between the United States, South Korea, and Japan is paramount to countering the PRC’s malign influence and to advancing our shared goal of a free and prosperous Indo-Pacific,” said Representative Connolly. “I am proud to join my colleagues today in introducing this important legislation that encourages consistent open dialogue between senior officials of our three nations and establishes a partnership to promote the strategic interests and values that the U.S., South Korea, and Japan share.”
“The U.S.-Japan-ROK Trilateral Cooperation Act will help continue the momentum of security cooperation between our three countries by establishing a multinational dialogue for American, Japanese, and Korean legislators to work together to pursue closer cooperation,” said Representative Castro.
“I am grateful to join my colleagues in affirming the importance of the renewed Trilateral Summit between the U.S., Republic of Korea, and Japan. Our joint commitment to a free, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific is ironclad, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance our shared goals and confront any challenges that come our way,” said Representative Wilson.
“I am honored to co-lead the U.S.-Japan-ROK Trilateral Cooperation Act. As threats from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) continue to grow, the United States and its allies must be prepared to maintain safety, security and prosperity for America and our Pacific allies. Congress has an obligation to the American people to protect its citizens from the CCP, DPRK, or other adversaries. Our alliance and friendship with the Republic of Korea and Japan is crucial,” said Representative Kelly.
“The U.S. has historic and critical partnerships with South Korea and Japan, and this is an important time to advance collaboration to our mutual benefit. Robust engagement to reinforce our shared values of freedom and security in the Indo-Pacific is necessary to meet the challenges of the twenty-first century. This legislation reflects these priorities and strong bipartisan support in Congress for fostering these valuable relationships. I am grateful to Rep. Bera and my other colleagues for working together to introduce it,” said Representative Smith.
Congressman Bera has consistently worked to strengthen U.S. foreign policy engagement in the Indo-Pacific and reinforce America’s role as a reliable ally. This legislation builds on his longstanding efforts to enhance diplomatic capacity, counter economic coercion and promote regional stability.
The Government is providing certainty to New Zealand’s film industry by providing the funding needed to sustain the International Screen Production Rebate, Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis announced today.
“This funding will help bring investment, jobs and income to New Zealand, boosting our economic growth.
“We are sending a clear message to the world: New Zealand is the best place in the world to make movies. Bring your productions here to take advantage of our talent and locations.
“The Budget increase of $577 million across this year and the next four takes total funding for the rebate scheme to $1.09 billion over the forecast period, better reflecting expected demand for the scheme. Settings remain unchanged,” Nicola Willis says.
“The rebate scheme is working and we want New Zealand’s film industry to know the Government is backing them to grow into the future.
“At last count our screen sector provided work for about 24,000 people and generated about $3.5 billion in annual revenue.
“While industry incentives are not generally our favoured approach, the reality is we simply won’t get the offshore investment in our highly successful screen sector without continuing this scheme,” Ms Willis says.
“New Zealand competes with more than 100 territories world-wide that provide screen incentives, including countries like Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom that provide more generous incentives than ours.
“Eligible productions can access a 20 per cent cash rebate on qualifying New Zealand production expenditure where production costs are more than $15 million for feature films and $4 million for TV productions.
”A further 5 per cent rebate is available to productions spending more than $30 million which meet additional criteria for industry and economic growth.
“Inbound productions invested nearly $7.5 billion in New Zealand in the past 10 years, supported by $1.5 billion in rebate payments.
“Following a review of the rebate settings completed in late-2023, 10 big international productions have been attracted here, including eight from the major Hollywood studios. They include A Minecraft Movie, the second highest-grossing film of 2025 so far, and Taika Waititi’s Klara and the Sun now in production.
“Along with investment and jobs, New Zealand has benefited from acquiring a highly skilled screen industry workforce. Film production companies provide work for thousands of people and create fantastic opportunities for young New Zealanders.
“The Government will continue to work with the New Zealand Film Commission to ensure we continue to attract high-value productions from around the world.”
Notes for editors
Through Budget 2025, the Government is increasing baseline funding for the New Zealand Screen Production Rebate – International so it better reflects current forecast demand for the rebate.
Previously the Government was regularly called on to provide time-limited funding on top of baseline funding for the scheme.
The changes mean that funding for 2024/25 is increasing to $250 million, and to $210 million from 2025/26 onwards, which better reflects the expected costs of the rebate based on registered productions and current forecast demand.
Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty
WASHINGTON—Today, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) introduced his former staffer, Joel Rayburn, President Donald Trump’s nominee to be Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, and Ambassador Michael DeSombre, President Donald Trump’s nominee to be Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, during a Senate Foreign Relations Committee confirmation hearing.
*Click the photo above or here to watch*
Remarks as prepared for delivery:
Chairman Risch and Ranking Member Shaheen, thank you for holding this important nominations hearing.
I am honored to introduce two exceptionally qualified nominees this morning, my good friends—
Joel Rayburn, President Trump’s nominee to be Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, and
Ambassador Michael DeSombre, President Trump’s nominee to be Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs.
Let me first turn to Joel.
Joel Rayburn’s nomination comes at a pivotal time for the United States in the Middle East and North Africa.
While there are many challenges in the region—including Iran and Hamas, Hezbollah, and other foreign terrorists organizations that Iran sponsors—our Nation also has enormous opportunities to strengthen our relationships with key Allies and partners, as the President’s trip to Middle East this week has powerfully illustrated.
At this critical juncture, I believe no one is better qualified to be the Assistant Secretary of State responsible for this region than Joel Rayburn.
As an avid historian who has served in a variety of leadership roles related to the Middle East, Joel is an expert in the region’s culture, its history, and the many other factors that will determine the success of our policy there.
Joel is a proud military veteran who has shown he is committed to public service on behalf of our great Nation.
After graduating from West Point in 1992, Joel went on to serve as an artillery and intelligence officer in the U.S. Army for over 26 years.
During his distinguished military career, Joel was deployed to the Middle East multiple times, giving him the opportunity to hone his knowledge of the region and its languages as well as his diplomatic skills.
From 2007 to 2011, for example, Joel worked for General David Petraeus as a strategic intelligence advisor in Iraq and Afghanistan.
In President Trump’s first term, Joel served on the National Security Council as Senior Director for Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon.
Joel served then as Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Levant Affairs and, concurrently, as Special Envoy for Syria from 2018 to 2021—roles that he used to improve U.S. policy for dealing with the repressive regime of then-Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad.
More recently, Joel served on my Senate staff as my advisor for Middle Eastern affairs—and I was able to see firsthand just why the military and the White House trusted him so much.
Joel’s sound advice, borne from his lifetime of focus on the region, helped me immensely—as I know it will help the State Department and the people of the United States.
More important, I saw Joel as a wonderful father—someone with the heart and humility to pay it forward to the next generation through selfless public service.
Joel could not be better qualified to be the next Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs and I urge my colleagues on this Committee to move quickly on his nomination.
Let me now turn to another colleague and friend, Ambassador Michael DeSombre.
I am excited that President Trump tapped Michael as his nominee to be the Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs.
Michael and I both served as U.S. Ambassadors in Asia during President Trump’s first term.
The Trump Administration rightly identifies the Indo-Pacific as a top priority for U.S. foreign policy.
This region contains 4.3 billion people—about 60 percent of the world’s population—and is responsible for almost two-thirds of global maritime trade.
The region is also home both to some of America’s closest Allies and partners, as well as to many of our most serious threats.
If confirmed, Michael will be at the forefront of U.S. efforts to address the significant challenges in the region while also pursuing tremendous opportunities critical to our economic prosperity and national security.
As someone who has worked in East Asia as both a businessman and a diplomat, I speak from experience when I say Michael is the right person for this role.
Building on his education at Stanford and Harvard in economics, law, and East Asian Studies, Michael’s significant experience in the region makes him exceptionally qualified for this role.
As a business leader in Asia, Michael advised multinational corporations on complex cross-border transactions and worked issues related to U.S. national security.
And as a philanthropist, Michael led initiatives focused on the education, healthcare, and protection of kids that benefitted tens of thousands of children in the region.
In addition to his success as a businessman and philanthropist in Asia, Michael is also a successful diplomat.
As U.S. Ambassador to Thailand during President Trump’s first term, Michael used his business background and skillset to create mutual economic opportunities that brought the American and Thai economies closer together.
In all, Michael has spent more than two decades of his life in Asia.
He speaks Mandarin fluently, and also is familiar with the Korean and Japanese languages.
If confirmed, Michael will once again use his experience and knowledge to strengthen our diplomatic relationships and advance our nation’s interests in the region.
Mr. Chairman, thank you again for the opportunity to introduce my friends and former colleagues, Joel Rayburn and Michael DeSombre, and I encourage this Committee to support their nominations.
Thank you for your time this morning.
Te Pāti Māori is gravely concerned by the Government’s approval of the Trans-Tasman Resources (Taranaki VTM) seabed mining project under its fast-track regime. This marks the first time a commercial shallow seabed mining operation has been approved anywhere in the world- pushed through with no transparency, no public input, and no consent from tangata whenua.
“This project will extract 50 million tonnes of seabed every year, dumping millions of tonnes of sludge into the moana for 35 consecutive years,” said Te Pāti Māori co-leader and MP for Te Tai Hauāuru, Debbie Ngarewa-Packer.
“Iwi, hapū, whānau, and local government have spent over a decade fighting to stop this destructive proposal- winning in the highest courts of the land.
“The approval hasn’t come because it’s safe or supported. It’s been enabled by a fast-track process that gives unchecked power to Ministers and shuts out those most affected.”
Te Pāti Māori acknowledges the tireless efforts of iwi, environmental protectors, legal experts, scientists, divers, and everyday New Zealanders who have stood up for this moana.
“Their voices weren’t lost- they were deliberately excluded. This decision is devastating. It confirms that economic interests have been placed above environmental safety, public accountability, and Treaty justice. The fast-track regime isn’t about efficiency- it’s about erasure” said Ngarewa-Packer.
Te Pāti Māori stands in full solidarity with iwi, communities, and all New Zealanders who oppose this decision. We reaffirm our total opposition to seabed mining and the fast-track process that enabled it.
“We must make this a one-term government- and repeal the fast-track regime at the very first opportunity” concluded Ngarewa-Packer.
Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports. SEL5
URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED Tornado Watch Number 255 NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK 515 PM CDT Thu May 15 2025
The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Tornado Watch for portions of Northern and Central Illinois Far Northwest Indiana Lake Michigan
* Effective this Thursday afternoon and evening from 515 PM until 1000 PM CDT.
* Primary threats include… A few tornadoes and a couple intense tornadoes possible Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 3 inches in diameter likely Scattered damaging winds likely with isolated significant gusts to 75 mph possible
SUMMARY…Supercell thunderstorms will pose a threat for large to very large hail this evening as they move east-northeastward. The largest hailstones may reach up to 2-3 inches in diameter. A few tornadoes are also possible, and a strong tornado may occur. Otherwise, scattered severe/damaging winds should also be a threat, especially if thunderstorms can congeal into clusters later this evening.
The tornado watch area is approximately along and 70 statute miles east and west of a line from 60 miles north northeast of Marseilles IL to 35 miles west southwest of Champaign IL. For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU5).
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings.
&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 251…WW 252…WW 253…WW 254…
AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to 3 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector 23035.
…Gleason
SEL5
URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED Tornado Watch Number 255 NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK 515 PM CDT Thu May 15 2025
The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Tornado Watch for portions of Northern and Central Illinois Far Northwest Indiana Lake Michigan
* Effective this Thursday afternoon and evening from 515 PM until 1000 PM CDT.
* Primary threats include… A few tornadoes and a couple intense tornadoes possible Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 3 inches in diameter likely Scattered damaging winds likely with isolated significant gusts to 75 mph possible
SUMMARY…Supercell thunderstorms will pose a threat for large to very large hail this evening as they move east-northeastward. The largest hailstones may reach up to 2-3 inches in diameter. A few tornadoes are also possible, and a strong tornado may occur. Otherwise, scattered severe/damaging winds should also be a threat, especially if thunderstorms can congeal into clusters later this evening.
The tornado watch area is approximately along and 70 statute miles east and west of a line from 60 miles north northeast of Marseilles IL to 35 miles west southwest of Champaign IL. For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU5).
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings.
&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 251…WW 252…WW 253…WW 254…
AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to 3 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector 23035.
…Gleason
Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas. SAW5 WW 255 TORNADO IL IN LM 152215Z – 160300Z AXIS..70 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE.. 60NNE MMO/MARSEILLES IL/ – 35WSW CMI/CHAMPAIGN IL/ ..AVIATION COORDS.. 60NM E/W /19NW ORD – 6NNW AXC/ HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..3 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..65 KNOTS. MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 23035.
LAT…LON 42168686 39838757 39839021 42168960
THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS FOR WOU5.
Watch 255 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.
Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes
Probability of 2 or more tornadoes
Mod (50%)
Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes
Mod (30%)
Wind
Probability of 10 or more severe wind events
Mod (60%)
Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots
Mod (30%)
Hail
Probability of 10 or more severe hail events
Mod (60%)
Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches
Mod (60%)
Combined Severe Hail/Wind
Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events
High (90%)
For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.
Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy
May 15, 2025
WASHINGTON–As President Trump actively engages in the corruption of U.S. foreign policy, U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), and Tim Kaine (D-Va.), members of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), on Thursday filed a joint resolution of disapproval (JRD) that would block a $1.9 billion arms sale to Qatar. Qatar has offered to gift Trump a $400 million luxury Boeing 747 jumbo jet for him to use as Air Force One. Reporting suggests the jet would be transferred to Trump’s presidential library in 2029 for his personal use after he leaves office. The Trump Organization also recently signed a $5.5 billion golf course and real estate deal with Dar Global and Qatari Diar, a firm established by Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund.
The sale to Qatar would include eight MQ-9B Armed Drones and associated equipment (including 200 JDAM tail kits, 300 500-lb bombs, and 110 Hellfire II missiles).
“There’s nothing Donald Trump loves more than being treated like a king, and that’s exactly why foreign governments are trying to buy his favor with a luxury jumbo jet and investments in Trump’s crypto scams. This isn’t a gift out of the goodness of their hearts – it’s an illegal bribe that the President of the United States is champing at the bit to accept. That’s unconstitutional and not how we conduct foreign policy. Unless Qatar rescinds their offer of a ‘palace in the sky’ or Trump turns it down, I will move to block this arms sale,” said Murphy.
“Everywhere I go in Virginia, I hear about how worried folks are about price hikes because of President Trump’s tariffs and the massive cuts he’s trying to implement on basic government services, including Medicaid. Meanwhile, he’s hatching secret plans with corrupt foreign governments to enrich himself with crypto deals, golf courses, and a luxury plane?” said Kaine. “I’m glad to be working with my colleagues to force votes on legislation challenging arms sales to Qatar and the United Arab Emirates to make it clear that bribing an American president is one of the fastest ways to poison your relationship with the United States. Countries around the world should take notice.”
“This resolution is about more than the sale of weapons, it’s about blocking the sale of the presidency to the highest bidder. If the President himself won’t reject the gift of a $400 million luxury jet as he plans to greenlight a massive weapons transfer to the foreign power who’s giving it to him, then Congress must step in. American foreign policy decisions must be made based on the interests of Americans and our national security – not on a pay-for-play basis,” said Van Hollen.
“American foreign policy cannot be bought by the highest bidder. Any president willing to accept a $400 million gift from a foreign government compromises American interests and undermines public trust,” said Schatz.
“It is a corrupt farce and blatantly unconstitutional for Trump to accept a $400 million ‘flying palace’ from the royal family of Qatar. Until Trump follows the Constitution we will do whatever we can to hold him – and the foreign powers exploiting his greed – accountable,” said Sanders.
Full text of the resolution is available HERE.
