NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-Evening Report: South Australia’s algal bloom may shrink over winter – but this model suggests it will spread to new areas in summer

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jochen Kaempf, Associate Professor of Natural Sciences (Oceanography), Flinders University

    South Australia is desperate for help to tackle an unprecedented harmful algal bloom that has decimated marine life up and down the coast. While the extent of the damage is still unknown, my preliminary research suggests there’s no end in sight. It may just get better over winter before it gets worse next summer.

    The Karenia mikimotoi bloom first appeared in March on two surf beaches outside Gulf St Vincent, about an hour south of Adelaide. It has since spread, killing all kinds of marine organisms – from crabs and small fish to sharks and rays. Only the neighbouring Spencer Gulf, far west coast and southeast coasts have been spared. For now.

    In preliminary research now undergoing peer review, I have predicted the bloom’s future spread using a new computer model. In the worst-case scenario, the harmful algal bloom would reach the Spencer Gulf and spread – from Port Lincoln to Whyalla and across to Port Pirie – next summer and autumn. That would be extremely bad news for the thriving seafood, aquaculture and tourism industries. They may need help to prepare.

    Some help is on the way. Federal Environment Minister Murray Watt yesterday announced A$14 million in federal funding. SA Premier Peter Malinauskas convened an Emergency Management Cabinet Committee meeting today and signed off on a $28 million support package.

    The worst-case scenario forecasts high concentrations of K. mikimotoi in both South Australian gulfs next April.
    Jochen Kaempf

    A rolling disaster

    The algal bloom was first noticed when dozens of surfers and beachgoers on the southern coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula fell ill after exposure to seawater in March.

    Soon, dangerous sea foam appeared. Then the killing began in earnest. Many marine species started washing up dead or dying.

    The bloom began to spread. In mid-April, K. mikimotoi was detected in water samples from Edithburgh and Coobowie on the southeastern corner of Yorke Peninsula.

    In early May, the Kangaroo Island Council announced the bloom had spread across the Investigator Strait affecting the island’s northern coastline.

    Wild weather in June pushed the bloom through the Murray Mouth into the Coorong.

    By July, the state government had detected K. mikimotoi along Adelaide’s metropolitan coastline. Videos of fish kills near the Ardrossan Jetty in the northern Gulf St Vincent also emerged.

    So far, the bloom has not been detected in Spencer Gulf. But my modelling suggests it’s only a matter of time.

    Predicting the future

    I was the first to discover the seasonal upwelling of nutrients in several regions along SA’s southern coastal shelf. This nutrient source fuels the marine food chain. It’s a big part of the reason why the marine life in our Great Southern Australian Coastal Upwelling System is so diverse.

    I also simulated the ocean currents in South Australian gulfs using computer models as early as 2009.

    I have now developed a computer model to predict where the algae will spread next.

    Preliminary results from this research have been submitted to the journal Continental Shelf Research and are being reviewed. But given the speed at which this situation is developing, it’s worth sharing a preprint of this manuscript.

    My model matches what’s known about the early spread of the bloom. It began in the coastal waters of the southern Fleurieu Peninsula. It then invaded Investigator Strait, between the Yorke Peninsula and Kangaroo Island, before slowly spreading in a clockwise circulation across the wider Gulf St Vincent.

    When the model is used to forecast how the algae bloom will evolve, the story becomes deeply concerning.

    It predicts the algal bloom will weaken over this winter, as the growth rate will slow in cooler water. In my model, the algae had already invaded the lower Spencer Gulf in May 2025 but at very low concentrations.

    Then, in the worst-case scenario of high growth rates and nothing stopping it, the model predicts the bloom will affect both gulfs – Gulf St Vincent and Spencer Gulf – and Investigator Strait, with severe conditions predicted for the coming summer.

    A bloom in the Spencer Gulf could decimate stocks of Australian sardine in the lower gulf, and potentially also western king prawns and the giant Australian cuttlefish in the upper Spencer Gulf. Some research suggests algal growth may be limited in the hypersaline upper reaches of the gulfs, but the spread of the algae as far as Ardrossan indicates otherwise.

    Under the best-case scenario, the algae’s natural predator, zooplankton, would eat more of the algae, suppressing future flare-ups. So there is some hope, but more research is needed to better understand how zooplankton could control these algae.

    SA also needs to make continuous efforts to monitor K. mikimotoi concentrations. This includes analysis of water samples in both gulfs. It’s important to note satellite images only show the peak phase of the toxic algal bloom, and can be misleading as they also display other species including blooms of “good” algae.

    Fortunately, the $28 million support package includes $8.5 million for early detection and monitoring of harmful algal bloom species. This will involve real-time sensors (buoys), satellite imagery and oceanographic modelling. A new $2 million national testing laboratory will check for toxins, while $3 million will be spent on a rapid assessment of fish stocks and fisheries.

    But if the algae stick around, there may be little anyone can do to protect our marine environment.

    Jochen Kaempf 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. South Australia’s algal bloom may shrink over winter – but this model suggests it will spread to new areas in summer – https://theconversation.com/south-australias-algal-bloom-may-shrink-over-winter-but-this-model-suggests-it-will-spread-to-new-areas-in-summer-261549

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • Google clinches milestone gold at global math competition, while OpenAI also claims win

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Alphabet’s Google and OpenAI said their artificial-intelligence models won gold medals at a global mathematics competition, signaling a breakthrough in math capabilities in the race to build systems that can rival human intelligence.

    The results marked the first time that AI systems crossed the gold-medal scoring threshold at the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) for high-school students.

    Both companies’ models solved five out of six problems, achieving the result using general-purpose “reasoning” models that processed mathematical concepts using natural language, in contrast to the previous approaches used by AI firms.

    While Google DeepMind worked with the IMO to have their models graded and certified by the committee, OpenAI did not officially enter the competition. The startup revealed their models have achieved a gold medal-worthy score on this year’s questions on Saturday, citing grades by three external IMO medalists.

    The achievement suggests AI is less than a year away from being used by mathematicians to crack unsolved research problems at the frontier of the field, according to Junehyuk Jung, a math professor at Brown University and visiting researcher in Google’s DeepMind AI unit.

    “I think the moment we can solve hard reasoning problems in natural language will enable the potential for collaboration between AI and mathematicians,” Jung told Reuters.

    OpenAI’s breakthrough was achieved with a new experimental model centered on massively scaling up “test-time compute.” This was done by both allowing the model to “think” for longer periods and deploying parallel computing power to run numerous lines of reasoning simultaneously, according to Noam Brown, researcher at OpenAI. Brown declined to say how much in computing power it cost OpenAI, but called it “very expensive.”

    To OpenAI researchers, it is another clear sign that AI models can command extensive reasoning capabilities that could expand into other areas beyond math.

    The optimism is shared by Google researchers, who believe AI models’ capabilities can apply to research quandaries in other fields such as physics, said Jung, who won an IMO gold medal as a student in 2003.

    Of the 630 students participating in the 66th IMO on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia, 67 contestants, or about 11%, achieved gold-medal scores.

    Google’s DeepMind AI unit last year achieved a silver medal score using AI systems specialized for math. This year, Google used a general-purpose model called Gemini Deep Think, a version of which was previously unveiled at its annual developer conference in May.

    Unlike previous AI attempts that relied on formal languages and lengthy computation, Google’s approach this year operated entirely in natural language and solved the problems within the official 4.5-hour time limit, the company said in a blog post.

    OpenAI, which has its own set of reasoning models, similarly built an experimental version for the competition, according to a post by researcher Alexander Wei on social media platform X. He noted that the company does not plan to release anything with this level of math capability for several months.

    This year marked the first time the competition coordinated officially with some AI developers, who have for years used prominent math competitions like IMO to test model capabilities. IMO judges certified the results of those companies, including Google, and asked them to publish results on July 28.

    “We respected the IMO Board’s original request that all AI labs share their results only after the official results had been verified by independent experts and the students had rightly received the acclamation they deserved,” Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis said on X on Monday.

    OpenAI, which published its results on Saturday and first claimed gold-medal status, said in an interview that it had permission from an IMO board member to do so after the closing ceremony on Saturday.

    (Reuters)

  • Google clinches milestone gold at global math competition, while OpenAI also claims win

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Alphabet’s Google and OpenAI said their artificial-intelligence models won gold medals at a global mathematics competition, signaling a breakthrough in math capabilities in the race to build systems that can rival human intelligence.

    The results marked the first time that AI systems crossed the gold-medal scoring threshold at the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) for high-school students.

    Both companies’ models solved five out of six problems, achieving the result using general-purpose “reasoning” models that processed mathematical concepts using natural language, in contrast to the previous approaches used by AI firms.

    While Google DeepMind worked with the IMO to have their models graded and certified by the committee, OpenAI did not officially enter the competition. The startup revealed their models have achieved a gold medal-worthy score on this year’s questions on Saturday, citing grades by three external IMO medalists.

    The achievement suggests AI is less than a year away from being used by mathematicians to crack unsolved research problems at the frontier of the field, according to Junehyuk Jung, a math professor at Brown University and visiting researcher in Google’s DeepMind AI unit.

    “I think the moment we can solve hard reasoning problems in natural language will enable the potential for collaboration between AI and mathematicians,” Jung told Reuters.

    OpenAI’s breakthrough was achieved with a new experimental model centered on massively scaling up “test-time compute.” This was done by both allowing the model to “think” for longer periods and deploying parallel computing power to run numerous lines of reasoning simultaneously, according to Noam Brown, researcher at OpenAI. Brown declined to say how much in computing power it cost OpenAI, but called it “very expensive.”

    To OpenAI researchers, it is another clear sign that AI models can command extensive reasoning capabilities that could expand into other areas beyond math.

    The optimism is shared by Google researchers, who believe AI models’ capabilities can apply to research quandaries in other fields such as physics, said Jung, who won an IMO gold medal as a student in 2003.

    Of the 630 students participating in the 66th IMO on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia, 67 contestants, or about 11%, achieved gold-medal scores.

    Google’s DeepMind AI unit last year achieved a silver medal score using AI systems specialized for math. This year, Google used a general-purpose model called Gemini Deep Think, a version of which was previously unveiled at its annual developer conference in May.

    Unlike previous AI attempts that relied on formal languages and lengthy computation, Google’s approach this year operated entirely in natural language and solved the problems within the official 4.5-hour time limit, the company said in a blog post.

    OpenAI, which has its own set of reasoning models, similarly built an experimental version for the competition, according to a post by researcher Alexander Wei on social media platform X. He noted that the company does not plan to release anything with this level of math capability for several months.

    This year marked the first time the competition coordinated officially with some AI developers, who have for years used prominent math competitions like IMO to test model capabilities. IMO judges certified the results of those companies, including Google, and asked them to publish results on July 28.

    “We respected the IMO Board’s original request that all AI labs share their results only after the official results had been verified by independent experts and the students had rightly received the acclamation they deserved,” Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis said on X on Monday.

    OpenAI, which published its results on Saturday and first claimed gold-medal status, said in an interview that it had permission from an IMO board member to do so after the closing ceremony on Saturday.

    (Reuters)

  • Rain lashes several parts of Delhi; IMD predicts light rain for next seven days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Several parts of the national capital witnessed rainfall on Tuesday, offering much-needed relief from the recent spell of heat and contributing to the ongoing monsoon activity across the region.

    According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi is likely to experience light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning on July 22 and 23. The skies will remain generally cloudy during this period, the IMD said in a statement.

    The forecast indicates that light rain will continue through the week, with weather conditions expected to remain similar until July 28.

    Daytime temperatures are likely to fluctuate between 36°C and 23°C over the next seven days, maintaining a relatively cooler atmosphere compared to previous weeks.

    The IMD’s extended forecast suggests consistent light to moderate showers throughout the week, ensuring ongoing relief from heat and supporting monsoon conditions in the city.

    (with inputs from ANI)

  • Rain lashes several parts of Delhi; IMD predicts light rain for next seven days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Several parts of the national capital witnessed rainfall on Tuesday, offering much-needed relief from the recent spell of heat and contributing to the ongoing monsoon activity across the region.

    According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi is likely to experience light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning on July 22 and 23. The skies will remain generally cloudy during this period, the IMD said in a statement.

    The forecast indicates that light rain will continue through the week, with weather conditions expected to remain similar until July 28.

    Daytime temperatures are likely to fluctuate between 36°C and 23°C over the next seven days, maintaining a relatively cooler atmosphere compared to previous weeks.

    The IMD’s extended forecast suggests consistent light to moderate showers throughout the week, ensuring ongoing relief from heat and supporting monsoon conditions in the city.

    (with inputs from ANI)

  • South Korea’s Lee orders all-out effort to find missing after floods

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    South Korea’s President Lee Jae Myung told public officials on Tuesday to “spare no effort” in the search for missing people and on damage recovery after days of torrential rains left a trail of destruction in various parts of the country.

    The wet weather has now subsided, though media reports said heavy rainfall was drenching parts of North Korea.

    Some 19 people have died and nine were still missing in South Korea as of Tuesday morning, while 2,549 people remained displaced, the Ministry of the Interior and Safety said.

    Damage to property was extensive with some 3,776 facilities, including homes, shops and factories needing to be cleared of water, debris and earth, it said.

    Noting the limitations of existing methods in coping with last week’s rain, Lee ordered the prime minister and all related ministries to establish a comprehensive response system for natural disasters by region and type.

    Lee also told a cabinet meeting to “strictly crack down on mindless public officials who enjoy dancing and drinking at.. locations where people are dying.”

    The president’s approval rating fell to 62.2% from 64.6% previously according to pollster Realmeter, in a survey conducted last week during the torrential rains.

    Lee, who took office in June, has promised to make the country safer and to prevent any repeat of the disasters in recent years that have often been blamed on the inadequate response by authorities.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Financial Inclusion Index for March 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India had constructed a composite Financial Inclusion Index (FI-Index) in consultation with the concerned stakeholders including the Government, to capture the extent of financial inclusion across the country, which was first published in August 2021 for the FY ending March 2021.

    Index for the year ending March 2025 has since been compiled. The value of FI-Index for March 2025 stands at 67.0 vis-à-vis 64.2 in March 2024, with growth witnessed across all sub-indices, viz., Access, Usage and Quality. Improvement in FI-Index in FY 2025 is contributed by Usage and Quality dimensions, reflecting deepening of financial inclusion, and sustained financial literacy initiatives.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/759

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: UAE deal passes, unlocking $500 billion market

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The NZ-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) legislation has passed into law today, clearing the way for Kiwi exporters to tap into a $500 billion market that imports 90 per cent of its food, Agriculture, Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay announced. 

    “The NZ-UAE CEPA delivers real benefits for New Zealand exporters, lowering costs, increasing access, and securing a stronger presence in the Middle East,” Mr McClay says.

    This is the highest-quality, and fastest, agreement negotiated by New Zealand that will immediately remove tariffs on 98.5 per cent of New Zealand’s exports upon entry to force, rising to 99 per cent in three years. 

    “This high-quality trade agreement builds on New Zealand’s strengths. UAE consumers are actively seeking safe, fresh products from around the world and are willing to pay more for them. This agreement gives New Zealand exporters an opportunity to lead in this competitive market,” Mr McClay says.

    Two-way trade between New Zealand and the UAE was worth $1.35 billion last year, and CEPA will accelerate growth by reducing red tape, boosting services trade, and supporting investment links.

    “Trade agreements are about opening doors and levelling the playing field for New Zealand exporters,” Mr McClay says.

    “The CEPA is another step toward achieving the Government’s goal of doubling the value of exports in 10 years. Growing our trade relationships helps boost the economy, lift incomes, and provide the public services Kiwis deserve.”

    The CEPA will enter into force following ratification procedures by both parties. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Winter underquoting blitz targets Hume

    Source: Australian Capital Territory Policing

    Property auctions in the City of Hume were targeted by Consumer Affairs Victoria’s underquoting taskforce over the weekend.

    Taskforce inspectors visited Craigieburn and surrounds to monitor auctions for compliance with auction and sales rules, after tracking 70 sales campaigns in the lead up to the weekend. This follows a spike in underquoting complaints in the area, which is popular with first home buyers.

    Inspectors also took the opportunity to educate agents and buyers about underquoting laws.

    The taskforce uses a range of methods to monitor the property market. This includes tracking sales campaigns, inspecting estate agencies and attending auctions. This latest auction sweep follows an inspection blitz in the Doncaster area earlier in the year.

    Since it launched in September 2022, the taskforce has:

    • received more than 4,200 complaints through its dedicated webform
    • monitored over 2,500 sales campaigns
    • attended 275 auctions
    • issued 185 fines totalling over $2 million, and
    • issued 244 official warnings to agents caught breaching their obligations.

    It is also taking legal action against several agents for alleged breaches of the law.

    More than one third of complaints are submitted by real estate agents, showing that agents doing the right thing are also frustrated with unfair and unlawful practices in their industry.

    The underquoting taskforce was made permanent in August 2024.

    If you suspect underquoting, report it to us.

    Find more information about underquoting.

    MIL OSI News –

  • GST at Eight Years: Report Highlights Growth in Revenue and growing Women’s Inclusion in Formal Economy

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    There are over 1.52 crore active Goods and Services Tax (GST) registrations and one-fifth of registered GST taxpayers in India now have at least one woman, and 14 per cent of registered taxpayers have all female members (on the basis of the constitution of business), an SBI report revealed on Tuesday.

    This representation is substantially high in limited liability partnership (LLP) and private limited companies and the vectors of increased formalization and momentum in corporate playbook augur well for equitable representation in the offing, according to the SBI’s Economic Research Department report.

    “This data, along-with 15 per cent share of women in overall income taxpayers and 40 per cent in overall deposits, mirrors women empowerment,” said Dr Soumya Kanti Ghosh, Group Chief Economic Advisor, SBI.

    In just five years (FY21-FY25), gross GST collection doubled and even average monthly gross GST collection is now Rs 2 lakh crore. Top five states account for 41 per cent of gross revenue and six states have crossed Rs 1 lakh crore mark, Dr Ghosh added.

    States having GST collection of more than Rs 1 lakh crore have Integrated Goods and Service Tax (IGST) share of more than 30 per cent in their total domestic collection, emphasising the contribution of larger states in pushing GST collection across other states.

    On July 1, the GST completed eight years since its rollout. Introduced in 2017 as a major step towards economic integration, GST replaced a maze of indirect taxes with a single, unified system.

    It made tax compliance easier, reduced costs for businesses, and allowed goods to move freely across states. By improving transparency and efficiency, GST helped lay the foundation for a stronger, more integrated economy.

    “Our results indicate that convergence pattern strengthens over time, peaking in FY25 across all quantiles. By FY25, convergence is strong across the spectrum, indicating a broad-based equalising effect of GST,” said Dr Ghosh.

    Surprisingly, some of the larger and richer states like Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and even Karnataka have low share in active GST taxpayers vis-a-vis the state’s share in overall GSDP (Gross State Domestic Product).

    “Interestingly, states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Gujarat share in total GST taxpayers is larger than the state’s share in overall GSDP. This indicate that there is still a vast untapped potential in GST in these states,” the report mentioned.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Apple Retail arrives in Saudi Arabia with launch of Apple Store online

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Apple Retail arrives in Saudi Arabia with launch of Apple Store online

    July 21, 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    Apple Retail arrives in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with launch of the Apple Store online

    RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA Apple today announced the expansion of Apple Retail into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with the launch of the Apple Store online and Apple Store app, introducing support directly from Apple in Arabic for the very first time. The arrival of the online store marks a new era for customers in Saudi Arabia, who will be able to shop Apple’s full range of products with exceptional service delivered by Apple’s talented, dedicated team members.

    “We are thrilled to bring the Apple Store online and the Apple Store app to Saudi Arabia, offering customers a new way to explore and shop Apple’s extraordinary lineup of products and services,” said Deirdre O’Brien, Apple’s senior vice president of Retail and People. “Our customers in Saudi Arabia are passionate about the things they can do with technology, and our teams can’t wait to connect with customers and help them discover how Apple innovations can meaningfully enrich their daily lives.”

    The Most Personalized Shopping Experience

    The Apple Store online is the best place for customers in Saudi Arabia to discover and shop Apple’s full lineup of products. With the Apple Store app, customers can enjoy a personalized shopping experience with recommendations tailored to the Apple products they already own. Additionally, customers can compare different models, access their saved items, and easily track their orders.

    The Apple Store online and Apple Store app offer the most personalized experience for customers to shop iPhone. The iPhone 16 lineup is built from the ground up for Apple Intelligence, unlocking exciting new capabilities that make iPhone even more helpful and powerful, all while taking an extraordinary step forward for privacy.1

    Apple offers configure-to-order options for Mac customers, allowing them to select and customize the device to their specific requirements, including chip memory and storage. Customers can also personalize their Apple Watch case and band combination to create a unique look.

    For the first time ever, free engraving is available in Arabic and English on apple.com/sa-en/store. Customers can personalize their AirPods, Apple Pencil, AirTag, and more with text, emoji, and numbers in dual language.

    Apple’s Retail Services

    Apple’s incredible retail services make it easier than ever for customers in Saudi Arabia to discover and shop Apple technology.

    Personalized shopping support via chat and phone helps customers to find the best product that suits their needs. After receiving their order, customers can also connect with an Apple team member online to get help with Personal Setup, switching to iOS with easy and safe data migration, as well as cellular activation.

    To support flexible shopping, the Apple Store online will offer an affordability option through Tamara. With Buy Now Pay Later, customers can shop their favorite lineups and pay in four-month installments at 0 percent interest.

    The Apple Trade In program allows customers in Saudi Arabia to trade in their current device and receive credit toward a new one. If their device is not eligible for a credit, Apple will recycle it for free, diverting electronic waste from landfills and saving precious materials.

    With AppleCare+, customers can receive one-stop service and support from Apple experts available on iPhone, Mac, iPad, and Apple Watch. AppleCare+ provides customers with two years of priority support and service, priority access to experts, and protection for their devices.

    Through the Apple Education Store, higher education students, their parents, and teachers and staff at all levels can exclusively save on a Mac or iPad with Apple education pricing. And until September 30, eligible customers can take advantage of a special back-to-school offer that includes AirPods or an accessory of their choice when they buy an eligible Mac or iPad.

    Apple announced its plans to begin opening the first of several flagship Apple Store locations in Saudi Arabia starting in 2026. As part of this expansion, Apple is in the initial stages of planning an iconic retail store coming to Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Apple’s retail expansion builds on its existing investments and activities in the country. This includes the region’s first Apple Developer Academy, which opened in Riyadh in 2021 in partnership with the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Tuwaiq Academy, and Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University.

    For all of the latest information and to learn more about Apple’s products and services, visit apple.com/sa-en/store.

    About Apple Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. Apple’s six software platforms — iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, iCloud, and Apple TV+. Apple’s more than 150,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth and to leaving the world better than we found it.

    1. Apple Intelligence is available in beta on all iPhone 16 models, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPad mini (A17 Pro), and iPad and Mac models with M1 and later, with Siri and device language set to the same supported language, as part of an iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia software update. Supported languages include English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese (Brazil), Chinese (simplified), and Spanish. More languages will be coming by the end of this year: Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Portugal), Swedish, Turkish, Chinese (traditional), and Vietnamese. Some features may not be available in all languages or regions, and availability may vary due to local laws and regulations. For more details, visit apple.com/apple-intelligence.

    Press Contacts

    Pia Fontes

    Apple

    pia_fontes@apple.com

    Brian Bumbery

    Apple

    bumbery@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Group CTO Tatsuo Ogawa: Beyond Reform—Technology Future Vision’s Progress and Direction for the Next Generation

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Group CTO Tatsuo Ogawa: Beyond Reform—Technology Future Vision’s Progress and Direction for the Next Generation

    The Panasonic Group is implementing extensive management reform, but which direction is technology pointing us in? What sort of future is taking shape before our eyes in this era of transformation? To explore the heart of the matter, we spoke with Tatsuo Ogawa, Executive Officer of Panasonic Holdings Corporation and Group CTO overseeing technology strategy.

    One year later: Three concepts and an unshakable commitment

    We unveiled our Technology Future Vision in July 2024. Since then we’ve received a remarkable amount of internal and external feedback. The support we’ve received, and the specific discussions relating to possible collaboration, have been very encouraging. We see many exciting challenges ahead as we work to realize the vision. The future it embodies remains the same, and we continue to create new technology and businesses as we map out our unique path and push forward.
    In particular, the three core concepts of energy and resources, nurturing a sense of fulfillment, and co-caring are vital guiding principles, as we integrate Panasonic technologies to achieve our overall goal of enhancing quality of life for everyone. We are pressing forward with research and development, so I would like to take this opportunity to update you on the progress we are making in multiple directions.

    1. Toward a society where energy and resources flow: Tackling the hard challenges of the global environment

    We are boldly tackling global environmental challenges through a wide range of R&D initiatives centered on the Green Transformation and Manufacturing Innovation Divisions.

    Perovskite solar cells

    These glass panels can generate energy where conventional solar panels cannot, for example as windows in dense urban areas. We already have a pilot manufacturing line producing near-commercial-size construction elements (1.0 m × 1.8 m). Our industrial inkjet printing system used to produce these panels is so advanced that it received the prestigious Okochi Memorial Technology Prize. Our goal is to integrate renewable energy generation into everyday urban infrastructure for better energy self-sufficiency and greater resilience in case of disasters.

    A Perovskite panel on display at Osaka’s Expo 2025 demonstrates the design potential this technology offers.

    Novitek Bio-CO₂ Transformation technology

    This biostimulant technology promotes plant growth by harnessing the power of photosynthesis, and represents an important step toward turning CO2 into a valuable resource. Field trials are underway in collaboration with Sumitomo Chemical Company, Limited, and Novitek is showing promise as a driver of sustainable agriculture with higher productivity and lower environmental impact.

    kinari (plant-derived cellulose fiber resin composite)

    Panasonic has developed moldable materials that are fully biodegradable in marine environments. It achieved this by taking its proprietary technology for blending high concentrations of plant-based cellulose fibers into resins and applying it to marine-biodegradable, plant-derived resins. In April 2025, Panasonic received the Ichimura Prize in Industry against Global Warming for this and related technologies.

    Tracephere traceability technology

    This technology uses the blockchain to make resource recycling and reuse transparent and trustworthy. It can bring us closer to realizing the circular economy by encouraging the use of recycled materials and preventing illegal dumping.

    Design for Circular Economy (DfCE)

    This initiative aims to drive the transition to a circular economy by designing products with ease of disassembly and recycling in mind. The effort is based on the MI Division’s perspective of maintaining and regenerating value in manufacturing, and will extend product lifespans and reduce waste.

    We also want to expand the positive impacts our activities are having on the environment in FY2025. Efforts in this direction are critically important, not only to halt but reverse biodiversity loss. To this end, we are investing resources in activities that directly support natural capital restoration. An example is our promotion of Nature Symbiosis Site research in areas where biodiversity is already being actively protected by companies, local government, NGOs, and others. These sites are part of Japan’s strategy to meet the global “30 by 30” goal of conserving at least 30% of land and sea by 2030. Another example would be conserving and regenerating blue carbon ecosystems by applying robotics and IoT technologies in collaboration with seaweed aquaculture startups. To ensure transparency and demonstrate our commitment to the environment, we are TCFD* disclosure-compliant and are working to meet TNFD** standards.
    * TCFD: Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures. This organization promotes disclosure by enterprises and other entities of information relating to their climate change-related activities and policies, and how these relate to their financial posture.
    ** TNFD: Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures. An international organization founded to structure frameworks for corporate risk management relating to natural capital, and for related disclosure.

    2. Toward a society of fulfillment: Creating meaningful time

    We want our technology to help every member of society find fulfillment in their work and daily activities, and be able to have more meaningful, quality time. At the heart of this concept are initiatives from the Digital Transformation & Cyber-Physical Systems Division.

    With digital collection and analysis of data from frontline environments like manufacturing sites, and by providing optimized feedback, we are working to boost operational efficiency and quality and create safer, more secure working environments. We plan to evolve beyond straightforward Kaizen toward Gemba CPS 2.0, a next-generation approach where we reimagine business processes ourselves from the design stage.
    We are also developing systems that provide direct support to keep workers safe and enhance their productivity. One of these is Reliable/Safe Operation Support, which helps users prevent work-related accidents.

    3. Toward a society of co-caring: Caring for self and others

    The third concept is a society where a harmonious state of mind and body encourages co-caring relationships with the people around us. The key to realizing this society is technology that deepens Human Insight.

    Verification test environment for time value enhancement of travel experience

    Human Insight technology

    This uses advanced sensing to collect a wide range, not only of biometric data like heart rate, respiration, and physical movements, but also of behavioral data. It then applies AI to model the individual’s physical and mental condition and characteristics, and even aspects of interactions with others. Then, by stimulating the five senses through environmental parameters including light, sound, scent, and temperature sensations, it aims to guide the individual toward an enhanced state of well-being.

    We are developing technologies that use heart rate to identify different types of stress, score a subject’s degree of meditative depth and provide constructive feedback, apply measured levels of concentration to the improvement of work environments, and other applications. We are also exploring unique research topics. Biophilic Hi-Res Sound enhances relaxation through wide-band audio and can strengthen brainwaves associated with relaxation. Therapeutic Sound promotes mental and physical well-being using sound with inaudible components, and can reduce stress levels during cognitive tasks.
    These technologies are undergoing development and field testing in a range of settings and realistic use cases. The success of this work will enhance physical and mental well-being and help people realize more creative, fulfilling lives.

    Cell therapy solutions

    Regenerative medicine is a key area of focus. Treatments that utilize the patient’s own cells and iPS cells offer great promise. Nevertheless, cell manufacturing remains inefficient, labor-intensive, and costly. We are currently collaborating with partners including the Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA) at Kyoto University to develop an automated system that reliably produces high-quality therapeutic cells in a cost-effective way by combining Panasonic expertise in biotechnology, precision manufacturing equipment, data analysis, and simulation. We are confident we can help make individually-tailored treatments accessible to more people, and contribute materially to extending healthy life span and improving quality of life.

    Synergy between structural reform and technology development: Focusing on what truly matters

    Panasonic is implementing group-wide management reform, and the impact of these efforts naturally extends to our technology divisions. Budget cuts are part of our efforts to optimize our operations, but I don’t view this as a negative. Instead, I see it as a great opportunity to focus our resources on the initiatives that truly matter as we extend our technological development.
    Most important is to select the themes that are likely to have the greatest impact toward realizing our Future Technology Vision, and apply our limited resources to investments that will generate the greatest return.
    As we do so, open innovation-style collaboration with universities and enterprises will only become more important. To enhance the speed and quality of our development, we will actively incorporate external knowledge and technologies rather than attempt to go it alone.
    What matters most is that we foster a culture of embracing challenges. As our founder Konosuke Matsushita once said, “Don’t fear mistakes. Fear a lack of resolve.” The process of creating new value inevitably includes setbacks. What can we learn from them? How can we apply those lessons? I’m convinced that such experiences strengthen our entire technology organization.

    How will AI illuminate the future?

    AI is a critical enabling technology for current and future innovation. To reinforce our group commitment to AI, we have launched a new initiative called Panasonic Go. Its goal is to expand the share of AI-related businesses to 30% of group sales by FY2035. In my view, this transformation will mark our evolution into a new breed of enterprise, with seamless vertical and horizontal connections across multiple layers of the organization.

    While we are still defining specific business targets for FY2035, our goal is to leverage AI and data to connect value that is now provided through individual products and services. We will not simply embed AI in products, but apply it across R&D workflows to boost efficiency and boldly tackle the challenge of creating new value.
    As AI extends into every corner of society, security technology becomes more and more important. From individual product security to security for whole factories and complete IT systems, we are reinforcing our efforts to deliver safety and peace of mind to customers by combining cutting-edge AI with expertise accumulated over many years. We are already contributing to society in tangible ways, such as shielding manufacturing lines from malware, or structuring security systems for entire office buildings.

    Panasonic means hope to everyone invested in the future

    From my perspective as CTO, I’m continually giving thought to how Panasonic technologies can contribute to future society. I think the answer begins in our founding DNA, which embodies a deep-rooted desire to improve people’s lives through manufacturing.
    To those who will lead tomorrow’s society, especially young people shaping the future, and to our engineers at Panasonic, I would say this: Don’t do only what you can do, but keep asking yourself what you should do. No matter how challenging the circumstances, I hope you’ll never lose your optimism. My own motto is, “Good fortune comes to those who smile.” If you’re always optimistic and willing to tackle challenges, I’m confident that a path forward is certain to open up.
    For more than a century, Panasonic has been a part of people’s lives through technology. The trust and technological achievement we have accumulated throughout our history are precious assets. Nevertheless, we must keep our eyes on the future and continue to challenge ourselves to create new value.
    With the Future Technology Vision to guide us, we will achieve transformation as a united Panasonic Group, and do our utmost to deliver futures filled with promise.

    Related Articles

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Group CTO Tatsuo Ogawa: Beyond Reform—Technology Future Vision’s Progress and Direction for the Next Generation

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Group CTO Tatsuo Ogawa: Beyond Reform—Technology Future Vision’s Progress and Direction for the Next Generation

    The Panasonic Group is implementing extensive management reform, but which direction is technology pointing us in? What sort of future is taking shape before our eyes in this era of transformation? To explore the heart of the matter, we spoke with Tatsuo Ogawa, Executive Officer of Panasonic Holdings Corporation and Group CTO overseeing technology strategy.

    One year later: Three concepts and an unshakable commitment

    We unveiled our Technology Future Vision in July 2024. Since then we’ve received a remarkable amount of internal and external feedback. The support we’ve received, and the specific discussions relating to possible collaboration, have been very encouraging. We see many exciting challenges ahead as we work to realize the vision. The future it embodies remains the same, and we continue to create new technology and businesses as we map out our unique path and push forward.
    In particular, the three core concepts of energy and resources, nurturing a sense of fulfillment, and co-caring are vital guiding principles, as we integrate Panasonic technologies to achieve our overall goal of enhancing quality of life for everyone. We are pressing forward with research and development, so I would like to take this opportunity to update you on the progress we are making in multiple directions.

    1. Toward a society where energy and resources flow: Tackling the hard challenges of the global environment

    We are boldly tackling global environmental challenges through a wide range of R&D initiatives centered on the Green Transformation and Manufacturing Innovation Divisions.

    Perovskite solar cells

    These glass panels can generate energy where conventional solar panels cannot, for example as windows in dense urban areas. We already have a pilot manufacturing line producing near-commercial-size construction elements (1.0 m × 1.8 m). Our industrial inkjet printing system used to produce these panels is so advanced that it received the prestigious Okochi Memorial Technology Prize. Our goal is to integrate renewable energy generation into everyday urban infrastructure for better energy self-sufficiency and greater resilience in case of disasters.

    A Perovskite panel on display at Osaka’s Expo 2025 demonstrates the design potential this technology offers.

    Novitek Bio-CO₂ Transformation technology

    This biostimulant technology promotes plant growth by harnessing the power of photosynthesis, and represents an important step toward turning CO2 into a valuable resource. Field trials are underway in collaboration with Sumitomo Chemical Company, Limited, and Novitek is showing promise as a driver of sustainable agriculture with higher productivity and lower environmental impact.

    kinari (plant-derived cellulose fiber resin composite)

    Panasonic has developed moldable materials that are fully biodegradable in marine environments. It achieved this by taking its proprietary technology for blending high concentrations of plant-based cellulose fibers into resins and applying it to marine-biodegradable, plant-derived resins. In April 2025, Panasonic received the Ichimura Prize in Industry against Global Warming for this and related technologies.

    Tracephere traceability technology

    This technology uses the blockchain to make resource recycling and reuse transparent and trustworthy. It can bring us closer to realizing the circular economy by encouraging the use of recycled materials and preventing illegal dumping.

    Design for Circular Economy (DfCE)

    This initiative aims to drive the transition to a circular economy by designing products with ease of disassembly and recycling in mind. The effort is based on the MI Division’s perspective of maintaining and regenerating value in manufacturing, and will extend product lifespans and reduce waste.

    We also want to expand the positive impacts our activities are having on the environment in FY2025. Efforts in this direction are critically important, not only to halt but reverse biodiversity loss. To this end, we are investing resources in activities that directly support natural capital restoration. An example is our promotion of Nature Symbiosis Site research in areas where biodiversity is already being actively protected by companies, local government, NGOs, and others. These sites are part of Japan’s strategy to meet the global “30 by 30” goal of conserving at least 30% of land and sea by 2030. Another example would be conserving and regenerating blue carbon ecosystems by applying robotics and IoT technologies in collaboration with seaweed aquaculture startups. To ensure transparency and demonstrate our commitment to the environment, we are TCFD* disclosure-compliant and are working to meet TNFD** standards.
    * TCFD: Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures. This organization promotes disclosure by enterprises and other entities of information relating to their climate change-related activities and policies, and how these relate to their financial posture.
    ** TNFD: Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures. An international organization founded to structure frameworks for corporate risk management relating to natural capital, and for related disclosure.

    2. Toward a society of fulfillment: Creating meaningful time

    We want our technology to help every member of society find fulfillment in their work and daily activities, and be able to have more meaningful, quality time. At the heart of this concept are initiatives from the Digital Transformation & Cyber-Physical Systems Division.

    With digital collection and analysis of data from frontline environments like manufacturing sites, and by providing optimized feedback, we are working to boost operational efficiency and quality and create safer, more secure working environments. We plan to evolve beyond straightforward Kaizen toward Gemba CPS 2.0, a next-generation approach where we reimagine business processes ourselves from the design stage.
    We are also developing systems that provide direct support to keep workers safe and enhance their productivity. One of these is Reliable/Safe Operation Support, which helps users prevent work-related accidents.

    3. Toward a society of co-caring: Caring for self and others

    The third concept is a society where a harmonious state of mind and body encourages co-caring relationships with the people around us. The key to realizing this society is technology that deepens Human Insight.

    Verification test environment for time value enhancement of travel experience

    Human Insight technology

    This uses advanced sensing to collect a wide range, not only of biometric data like heart rate, respiration, and physical movements, but also of behavioral data. It then applies AI to model the individual’s physical and mental condition and characteristics, and even aspects of interactions with others. Then, by stimulating the five senses through environmental parameters including light, sound, scent, and temperature sensations, it aims to guide the individual toward an enhanced state of well-being.

    We are developing technologies that use heart rate to identify different types of stress, score a subject’s degree of meditative depth and provide constructive feedback, apply measured levels of concentration to the improvement of work environments, and other applications. We are also exploring unique research topics. Biophilic Hi-Res Sound enhances relaxation through wide-band audio and can strengthen brainwaves associated with relaxation. Therapeutic Sound promotes mental and physical well-being using sound with inaudible components, and can reduce stress levels during cognitive tasks.
    These technologies are undergoing development and field testing in a range of settings and realistic use cases. The success of this work will enhance physical and mental well-being and help people realize more creative, fulfilling lives.

    Cell therapy solutions

    Regenerative medicine is a key area of focus. Treatments that utilize the patient’s own cells and iPS cells offer great promise. Nevertheless, cell manufacturing remains inefficient, labor-intensive, and costly. We are currently collaborating with partners including the Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA) at Kyoto University to develop an automated system that reliably produces high-quality therapeutic cells in a cost-effective way by combining Panasonic expertise in biotechnology, precision manufacturing equipment, data analysis, and simulation. We are confident we can help make individually-tailored treatments accessible to more people, and contribute materially to extending healthy life span and improving quality of life.

    Synergy between structural reform and technology development: Focusing on what truly matters

    Panasonic is implementing group-wide management reform, and the impact of these efforts naturally extends to our technology divisions. Budget cuts are part of our efforts to optimize our operations, but I don’t view this as a negative. Instead, I see it as a great opportunity to focus our resources on the initiatives that truly matter as we extend our technological development.
    Most important is to select the themes that are likely to have the greatest impact toward realizing our Future Technology Vision, and apply our limited resources to investments that will generate the greatest return.
    As we do so, open innovation-style collaboration with universities and enterprises will only become more important. To enhance the speed and quality of our development, we will actively incorporate external knowledge and technologies rather than attempt to go it alone.
    What matters most is that we foster a culture of embracing challenges. As our founder Konosuke Matsushita once said, “Don’t fear mistakes. Fear a lack of resolve.” The process of creating new value inevitably includes setbacks. What can we learn from them? How can we apply those lessons? I’m convinced that such experiences strengthen our entire technology organization.

    How will AI illuminate the future?

    AI is a critical enabling technology for current and future innovation. To reinforce our group commitment to AI, we have launched a new initiative called Panasonic Go. Its goal is to expand the share of AI-related businesses to 30% of group sales by FY2035. In my view, this transformation will mark our evolution into a new breed of enterprise, with seamless vertical and horizontal connections across multiple layers of the organization.

    While we are still defining specific business targets for FY2035, our goal is to leverage AI and data to connect value that is now provided through individual products and services. We will not simply embed AI in products, but apply it across R&D workflows to boost efficiency and boldly tackle the challenge of creating new value.
    As AI extends into every corner of society, security technology becomes more and more important. From individual product security to security for whole factories and complete IT systems, we are reinforcing our efforts to deliver safety and peace of mind to customers by combining cutting-edge AI with expertise accumulated over many years. We are already contributing to society in tangible ways, such as shielding manufacturing lines from malware, or structuring security systems for entire office buildings.

    Panasonic means hope to everyone invested in the future

    From my perspective as CTO, I’m continually giving thought to how Panasonic technologies can contribute to future society. I think the answer begins in our founding DNA, which embodies a deep-rooted desire to improve people’s lives through manufacturing.
    To those who will lead tomorrow’s society, especially young people shaping the future, and to our engineers at Panasonic, I would say this: Don’t do only what you can do, but keep asking yourself what you should do. No matter how challenging the circumstances, I hope you’ll never lose your optimism. My own motto is, “Good fortune comes to those who smile.” If you’re always optimistic and willing to tackle challenges, I’m confident that a path forward is certain to open up.
    For more than a century, Panasonic has been a part of people’s lives through technology. The trust and technological achievement we have accumulated throughout our history are precious assets. Nevertheless, we must keep our eyes on the future and continue to challenge ourselves to create new value.
    With the Future Technology Vision to guide us, we will achieve transformation as a united Panasonic Group, and do our utmost to deliver futures filled with promise.

    Related Articles

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Here’s why 3-person embryos are a breakthrough for science – but not LGBTQ+ families

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jennifer Power, Principal Research Fellow, Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University

    Last week, scientists announced the birth of eight healthy babies in the United Kingdom conceived with DNA from three people. Some headlines have called it “three-person IVF”.

    The embryo uses the DNA from the egg and sperm of the intended father and mother, as well as cells from the egg of a second woman (the donor).

    This process – known as mitochondrial replacement therapy – allows women with certain genetic disorders to conceive a child without passing on their condition.

    While it’s raised broader questions about “three-parent” babies, it’s not so simple. Here’s why it’s unlikely this development will transform the diverse ways LGBTQ+ people are already making families.

    What this technology is – and isn’t

    The UK became the first country in the world to allow mitochondrial donation for three-person embryos ten years ago, in 2015.

    In other countries, such donations are banned or strictly controlled. In Australia, a staged approach to allow mitochondrial donation was introduced in 2022. Stage one will involve clinical trials to determine safety and effectiveness, and establish clear ethical guidelines for donations.

    These restrictions are based on political and ethical concerns about the use of human embryos for research, the unknown health impact on children, and the broader implications of allowing genetic modification of human embryos.

    There are also concerns about the ethical or legal implications of creating babies with “three parents”.

    Carefully and slowly considering these ethical issues is clearly important. But it’s inaccurate to suggest this process creates three parents.

    First, the amount of DNA the donor provides is tiny, only 0.1% of the baby’s DNA. The baby will not share any physical characteristics with the donor.

    While it is significant that two women’s DNA has been used in creating an embryo, it doesn’t mean lesbian couples will be rushing to access this particular in vitro fertilisation (IVF) technology.

    This technique is only used for people affected by mitochondrial disease and is closely regulated. It is not available more widely and in Australia, is not yet available even for this use.

    Second, while biological lineage is an important part of many people’s identity and sense of self, DNA alone does not make a parent.

    As many adoptive, foster and LGBTQ+ parents will attest, parenting is about love, connection and everyday acts of care for a child.

    How do rainbow families use IVF?

    Existing IVF is already expensive and medically invasive. Many fertility services offer a range of additional treatments purported to aid fertility, but extra interventions add more costs and are not universally recommended by doctors.

    While many lesbian couples and single women use fertility services to access donor sperm, not everyone will need to use IVF.

    Less invasive fertilisation techniques, such as intrauterine insemination, may be available for women without fertility problems. This means inserting sperm directly into the uterus, rather than fertilising an egg in a clinic and then implanting that embryo.

    Same-sex couples who have the option to create a baby with a sperm donor they know – rather than from a register – may also choose home-based insemination, the proverbial turkey baster. This is a cheaper and more intimate way to conceive and many women prefer a donor who will have some involvement in their child’s life.

    In recent years, “reciprocal” IVF has also grown in popularity among lesbian couples. This means an embryo is created using one partner’s egg, and the other partner carries it.

    Reciprocal IVF’s popularity suggests biology does play a role for LGBTQ+ women in conceiving a baby. When both mothers share a biological connection to the child, it may help overcome stigmatisation of “non-birth” mothers as less legitimate.

    But biology is by no means the defining feature of rainbow families.

    LGBTQ+ people are already parents

    The 2021 census showed 17% of same-sex couples had children living with them; among female same-sex couples it was 28%. This is likely an underestimate, as the census only collects data on couples that live together.

    Same-sex couples often conceive children using donor sperm or eggs, and this may involve surrogacy. But across the LGBTQ+ community, there are diverse ways people become parents.

    Same-sex couples are one part of the LGBTQ+ community. Growing numbers of trans and non-binary people are choosing to carry a baby (as gestational parents), as well as single parents who use donors or fertility services. Many others conceive children through sex, including bi+ people or others who conceive within a relationship.

    While LGBTQ+ people can legally adopt children in Australia, adoption is not common. However, many foster parents are LGBTQ+.

    When they donate eggs or sperm to others, some LGBTQ+ people may stay involved in the child’s life as a close family friend or co-parent.

    Connection and care, not DNA

    While mitochondrial replacement therapy is a remarkable advance in gene technology, it is unlikely to open new pathways to parenthood for LGBTQ+ people in Australia.

    Asserting the importance of families based on choice – not biology or what technology is available – has been crucial to the LGBTQ+ community’s story and to rainbow families’ fight to be recognised.

    Decades of research now shows children raised by same-sex couples do just as well as any other child. What matters is parents’ consistency, love and quality of care.

    Jennifer Power receives funding from the Australian Department of Health, Disability and Aged Care and the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. Here’s why 3-person embryos are a breakthrough for science – but not LGBTQ+ families – https://theconversation.com/heres-why-3-person-embryos-are-a-breakthrough-for-science-but-not-lgbtq-families-261462

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Eugene Doyle: Nagasaki now a celebration of Israeli genocide

    Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific. –

    COMMENTARY: By Eugene Doyle

    Israel’s key enablers, the G7, plus Australia and New Zealand, have succeeded in muscling Israel back onto the invite list for the commemorations in Nagasaki on August 9.

    Last year Israel was excluded, triggering a refusal by these countries to attend in 2024.

    Does the “personal” invitation that Nagasaki has just sent to Israel represent a triumph of Western diplomacy or a sick joke?

    You know who your mates are when you’re committing genocide
     As I wrote at the time, the boycott by the powerful white-dominated Western nations was a stunning “Fuck you” to the Hibakusha, the last few survivors of the US’s 1945 nuclear attack.

    More importantly it was as clear a statement of collective commitment to Israel’s war on Palestine as you could possibly wish for.  You really find out who your true mates are when you’re committing genocide.

    At the time, Shigemitsu Tanaka, the 83-year-old head of the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Survivors Council, said he supported the move to keep the Israelis away from the commemorations, saying it was inappropriate to invite representatives from countries waging armed conflicts in defiance of calls from the international community.

    Israel’s invitation is a triumph of Western pressure
     A year later, the City buckled under pressure and has personally invited the Israelis.

    “After Israel was excluded last year over the Gaza war, Nagasaki’s mayor is avoiding renewed diplomatic tensions — especially following a clear message from the US,” Israel’s influential news site Ynet reported this month.

    It is a triumph for Netanyahu and his government, cause for celebration in Tel Aviv, but diminishes the nobility of an event that was created with the explicit intention to say Never Again and to remind the world of the indefensible criminality of attacks on defenceless civilian populations.

    Nagasaki and the Boycott Israel campaign
     Israel goes to incredible lengths to break efforts to impose BDS (Boycotts, Divestment and Sanctions) and so Nagasaki had to be brought to heel.  July 2025 marked the 20th anniversary of the founding of BDS, a non-violent campaign designed to hold Israel accountable for its crimes and apply real-world pressure for the state to change course.

    BDS is potentially a game-changer which is why Israeli government ministers routinely make threats of physical violence against leading BDS activists.

    Israel Katz, currently the Israeli Defence Minister, is on record as calling for Israel to engage in “targeted civil eliminations” of BDS leaders with the help of Israeli intelligence.

    70,000 tons of bombs on Gaza – and Israel is invited to a peace ceremony
     Think for a moment what the presence of Israel at this year’s event represents as an astonishing piece of semiology.  A state that is actively committing the crime of crimes, genocide, sitting alongside the Hibakusha.

    They won’t be the only war criminals in attendance. American, German, and British bombs have levelled the tiny enclave of Gaza.  More of their bombs — 70,000 tons and climbing — have been used to massacre Palestinians in Gaza than were used in the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki (36,000 tons), the fire bombings of Tokyo (1,665 tons) and Dresden (3,900 tons), and the London Blitz (19,000 tons) combined. And it is happening on our watch.

    Another piece of astonishing optics: less than two months ago the US and Israel bombed Iran’s nuclear facilities, doing so with no UN mandate but only their position as powerful, lawless states.

    Their actions dramatically raise the prospect of Iran, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and others deciding they need nuclear weapons as deterrence.  What look will the US and Israeli ambassadors cast over their faces as the Mayor of Nagasaki delivers the message of “Nagasaki’s wish for the establishment of lasting world peace and the abolition of nuclear weapons?”

    Is the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize the next to be trashed?
     Talking of tone deaf and morally repellent, Donald Trump has been openly lobbying to receive the Nobel Peace Prize despite having killed thousands of people and bombed multiple countries this year.

    Interestingly, the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize winner was Nihon Hidankyo (Japan’s Atomic Bomb Survivors Organisation).

    In his acceptance speech last year, Terumi Tanaka, one of the co-chairpersons of Nihon Hidankyo, said that the organisation was created in 1956 “to demand the immediate abolition of nuclear weapons, as extremely inhumane weapons of mass killing, which must not be allowed to coexist with humanity”.

    New Zealand is a genocide enabler.  What happened to our soft power?
     As a New Zealander I am deeply ashamed of my country for having refused to attend last year’s ceremony and for its criminal complicity with Israel today. New Zealand’s tragic trajectory from humanitarian champions and nuclear-free pioneers to racist genocide enablers is captured in all its horror in this month’s Nagasaki commemorations.

    New Zealand, the country that went to the brink of civil war in 1981 to stop sporting contact with Apartheid South Africa is now a fully-paid up member of Apartheid Israel’s war on Palestine.

    Everywhere our government is tearing down the pillars built by decades of struggle in New Zealand. The anti-nuclear policy, the anti-apartheid victories, the non-aligned foreign policies, the sacred principles of partnership between indigenous Māori and the Pākehā (those who settled from Europe and elsewhere) are all being shredded.

    We refuse to recognise Palestine, we refuse to join South Africa’s case against Israel at the ICJ, we refuse to join the Hague Group which is mobilising countries to make those responsible for the genocide accountable and to shoulder state-level responsibility for forcing the end to it.

    But we mobilise to get Israel invited to the Nagasaki peace events.

    From Auschwitz to Nagasaki to Gaza: whatever happened to Never Again? Whatever happened to our decency?

    The Australian journalist Caitlin Johnstone wrote this month “If you’re still supporting Israel in the year 2025, there’s something seriously wrong with you as a person.”  That goes triple for governments.

    Eugene Doyle is a writer based in Wellington. He has written extensively on the Middle East, as well as peace and security issues in the Asia Pacific region. He contributes to Asia Pacific Report and Café Pacific, and hosts the public policy platform solidarity.co.nz

    This article was first published on Café Pacific.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • PM Modi extends birthday greetings to Maha CM Fadnavis, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday extended warm birthday wishes to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, lauding their contributions to the state and wishing them long and healthy lives.

    Fadnavis, born on July 22, 1970, in Nagpur and Pawar, born on the same date in 1959 in Maharashtra’s Ahmednagar district, received praise and blessings from leaders across the political spectrum.

    Taking to X, PM Modi wrote, “Best wishes to Maharashtra Chief Minister, Shri Devendra Fadnavis Ji on his birthday. He’s working tirelessly for Maharashtra’s progress and empowering the poor and downtrodden. May he lead a long and healthy life in service of the people.”

    For Ajit Pawar, who leads the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) faction aligned with the Mahayuti, PM Modi posted, “Birthday greetings to Shri Ajit Pawar Ji. He is making a valuable contribution to strengthening the NDA’s good governance agenda in Maharashtra. May he be blessed with a long and healthy life.”

    Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended heartfelt greetings. “Happy birthday to Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri Devendra Fadnavis. Under the leadership of Modi ji, you are continuously doing commendable work towards public welfare and revival of cultural heritage in Maharashtra,” Shah wrote on X.

    “We are also moving forward firmly on the path of public welfare by providing basic facilities to the poor, deprived and exploited in a transparent manner. May Ganpati Bappa grant you long life and healthy life,” he added.

    For Ajit Pawar, Shah wrote, “Heartiest birthday wishes to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. You are playing a commendable role in bringing the work of the Mahayuti government to the ground in Maharashtra. I pray to God for your good health and long life.”

    Joining in the celebrations, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde offered his wishes to both leaders.

    In a message posted in Marathi (loosely translated into English), he wrote, “Heartfelt birthday wishes to the Honourable Chief Minister Devendraji Fadnavis, the steadfast warrior of Maharashtra’s development journey! A trusted friend and colleague of the Mahayuti alliance, leading all comrades with strength, a leader who amplifies the voice of the people, taking bold steps in Maharashtra’s journey toward prosperity.”

    He further praised Fadnavis as “an excellent administrator, a wise leader with expertise in economics and law, and a visionary leader,” and prayed for his long and healthy life.

    Wishing his counterpart Ajit Pawar, Shinde wrote, “Heartfelt birthday wishes to Deputy Chief Minister Hon. Ajitdada Pawar, who steadfastly supports the Mahayuti! An exceptional administrator with a remarkable grasp of economics, a steadfast companion of visionary development, and a sensitive and punctual leader who carries the aspirations of Maharashtra’s progress — that’s our Ajitdada.”

    He added, “To our friend who firmly believes nothing comes before Maharashtra’s development and walks this path with conviction, we pray at the feet of the Almighty for a long and healthy life!”

    (IANS)

  • PM Modi extends birthday greetings to Maha CM Fadnavis, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday extended warm birthday wishes to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, lauding their contributions to the state and wishing them long and healthy lives.

    Fadnavis, born on July 22, 1970, in Nagpur and Pawar, born on the same date in 1959 in Maharashtra’s Ahmednagar district, received praise and blessings from leaders across the political spectrum.

    Taking to X, PM Modi wrote, “Best wishes to Maharashtra Chief Minister, Shri Devendra Fadnavis Ji on his birthday. He’s working tirelessly for Maharashtra’s progress and empowering the poor and downtrodden. May he lead a long and healthy life in service of the people.”

    For Ajit Pawar, who leads the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) faction aligned with the Mahayuti, PM Modi posted, “Birthday greetings to Shri Ajit Pawar Ji. He is making a valuable contribution to strengthening the NDA’s good governance agenda in Maharashtra. May he be blessed with a long and healthy life.”

    Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended heartfelt greetings. “Happy birthday to Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri Devendra Fadnavis. Under the leadership of Modi ji, you are continuously doing commendable work towards public welfare and revival of cultural heritage in Maharashtra,” Shah wrote on X.

    “We are also moving forward firmly on the path of public welfare by providing basic facilities to the poor, deprived and exploited in a transparent manner. May Ganpati Bappa grant you long life and healthy life,” he added.

    For Ajit Pawar, Shah wrote, “Heartiest birthday wishes to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. You are playing a commendable role in bringing the work of the Mahayuti government to the ground in Maharashtra. I pray to God for your good health and long life.”

    Joining in the celebrations, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde offered his wishes to both leaders.

    In a message posted in Marathi (loosely translated into English), he wrote, “Heartfelt birthday wishes to the Honourable Chief Minister Devendraji Fadnavis, the steadfast warrior of Maharashtra’s development journey! A trusted friend and colleague of the Mahayuti alliance, leading all comrades with strength, a leader who amplifies the voice of the people, taking bold steps in Maharashtra’s journey toward prosperity.”

    He further praised Fadnavis as “an excellent administrator, a wise leader with expertise in economics and law, and a visionary leader,” and prayed for his long and healthy life.

    Wishing his counterpart Ajit Pawar, Shinde wrote, “Heartfelt birthday wishes to Deputy Chief Minister Hon. Ajitdada Pawar, who steadfastly supports the Mahayuti! An exceptional administrator with a remarkable grasp of economics, a steadfast companion of visionary development, and a sensitive and punctual leader who carries the aspirations of Maharashtra’s progress — that’s our Ajitdada.”

    He added, “To our friend who firmly believes nothing comes before Maharashtra’s development and walks this path with conviction, we pray at the feet of the Almighty for a long and healthy life!”

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mong Kok fair to offer 2,300 jobs

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Labour Department (LD) announced today that it will hold the Building a Multicultural Workplace Job Fair at MacPherson Stadium in Mong Kok on Thursday and Friday, offering more than 2,300 vacancies.

    The fair is jointly organised by the LD and the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment & Progress of Hong Kong (DAB) Ethnic Minorities Committee, with the Equal Opportunities Commission as the co-organiser.

    It aims to enhance the employment opportunities of job seekers, including those from ethnic minorities, and promote the LD’s employment services.

    About 50 organisations will participate in the fair, with around half of them setting up booths on-site and conducting on-the-spot recruitment each day.

    The positions being offered include engineer, accountant, human resources officer, guest services officer, administrative assistant, clerk, aircraft maintenance mechanic trainee, railway technical trainee, technical manager, system analyst, equestrian assistant, barista, spa therapist, nail technician trainee and lifeguard.

    The Correctional Services Department, the Fire Services Department, Police and the Immigration Department plan to set up counters to introduce their career opportunities and entry requirements.

    In addition to providing on-site interpretation services in Hindi, Urdu and Nepali at the fair, the DAB Ethnic Minorities Committee will introduce its support services for people from ethnic minorities.

    Furthermore, career talks on various professions will be held during the event on Thursday.

    Around 93% of the vacancies at the fair are full-time jobs, with most of them offering monthly salaries ranging from $12,000 to $22,000.

    Among the vacancies, about 90% require a Secondary 7 education level or below and around 66% are open to job seekers without relevant work experience.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: May crime statistics

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Property related crime including house break-ins, shop theft and car theft have continued to decline considerably in South Australia, the latest crime statistics have revealed.

    The May rolling year crime statistics reveal the total number of property related offences has decreased by eight per cent – or 7,604 offences – in the period with significant reductions in most offences within the category.

    Robbery and related offences have also continued to fall with a 10 per cent decline in offences recorded in the period – 80 offences – which is the sixteenth successive decrease in offences within that category.

    The May figures reveal aggravated robberies declined by 14 per cent – from 490 to 432 offences reported and non-aggravated robberies rose by three per cent – from 75 to 77 offences reported.

    Within the property related offences category theft and related offences recorded a 10 per cent decline in the period with a reduction in 5,709 offences – from 56,630 to 50,921.

    Car theft recorded a six per cent decline – from 3,725 to 3,513 offences – and theft from a vehicle recorded a 20 per cent drop in offences – from 9,567 to 7,639 offences. This followed similar falls in the previous three reporting periods.

    Shop theft has continued to fall in South Australia as ongoing proactive operations targeting recidivist offenders pay dividends with a seven per cent decline in the May period when 1,224 fewer offences were reported – from 18,405 to 17,181 incidents. This is the seventh successive decline in reported offences.

    House break-ins have also continued to decline with a 10 per cent decrease recorded in the May period – from 5,822 to 5,228 offences – or 594 fewer incidents reported. This followed an 11 per cent decrease in the April period, eight per cent in March and seven per cent in February.

    Non-residential break-ins also showed another healthy decrease with 318 fewer offences reported – from 3,708 to 3,390. The nine per cent drop followed a seven per cent decline in the April period and five per cent reductions in March and February.

    The May rolling year statistics reveal acts intended to cause injury, which includes serious assault resulting in injury and common assault, increased by four per cent from 23,546 to 24,428 incidents reported.

    Within that category the number of assault police incidents reported decreased by four per cent -from 626 to 601 incidents.

    Reported homicides have returned to traditional levels with 10 recorded in the rolling year period compared with 23 in the corresponding period. A similar number were reported in the March and April periods.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Pāua poacher jailed for 2 and a half years

    Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

    A Porirua poacher found with 619 pāua he intended to sell, has been sent to prison for 2 years and 6 months. 

    Ruteru Sufia (63) was sentenced in the Porirua District Court today on 4 charges under the Fisheries Act and one charge under the Fisheries (Amateur Fishing) Regulations, following a successful prosecution by the Ministry for Primary Industries. The Court also banned him from all forms of fishing for 3 years.

    In November 2022, Fishery Officers carried out a search warrant at Mr Sufia’s home and found 65 pāua in a freezer along with 554 shucked pāua in another freezer.

    “This was a large amount of pāua, more than 60 times the daily catch limit and more than 30 times the accumulation limit. Also, 45 of the pāua found were undersize. 

    While on bail on those charges, Mr Sufia was caught with a further 48 pāua, with 29 less than the minimum legal size. Mr Sufia was sentenced today on all matters.

    “Mr Sufia intended to sell this seafood, which is also illegal. We have zero tolerance for poachers – they affect the sustainability of our shared fisheries, and they affect people who legitimately trade in seafood,” says Fisheries New Zealand regional manager, Fisheries Compliance, Phil Tasker.

    “Mr Sufia claimed the pāua in his freezer was for a wedding in Auckland, an explanation the court didn’t believe. Mr Sufia’s offending was deliberate. He wasn’t concerned with legal size and catch limits; he was driven by financial gain from poaching this pāua. 

    When we find evidence of illegal fishing – you can be assured that we will investigate and depending on the circumstances, place the matter before the court,” Mr Tasker says.

    Ruteru Sufia has a long record of breaking fisheries rules with over 35 offences dealt with by MPI over a number of years.

    MPI encourages people to report suspected illegal activity through the ministry’s 0800 4 POACHER number (0800 476 224)

    For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 008 333 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

    For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN delivers Pre-Recorded Remarks at the 20th Asia Media Summit

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today delivered Pre-Recorded Remarks at the Opening Ceremony of the 20th Asia Media Summit held in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Under the theme of “Celebrating Two Decades of Excellence and Beyond,” the summit gathers broadcasters, decision makers, media professionals, regulators, scholars, and stakeholders from within and outside the region to address challenges and opportunities in the media industry. In his remarks, Dr. Kao reflected on the achievements of the Asia Media Summit, and highlighted ASEAN’s developments in response to the evolving information and media landscape.
     

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN delivers Pre-Recorded Remarks at the 20th Asia Media Summit appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • Sensex, Nifty open higher as banking stocks continue to gain

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian stock market opened in the green on Tuesday as heavyweight banking stocks continued to lead amid mixed global cues.

    At 9.23 am, Sensex was up 152 points or 0.19 per cent at 82,359 and Nifty was up 38 points or 0.15 per cent at 25,129.

    Banking stocks were leading the market. Nifty Bank was up 0.30 per cent, higher than the main indices.

    Buying was also seen in the midcap and smallcap stocks. Nifty midcap 100 index was up 45 points or 0.08 per cent at 59,514 and Nifty smallcap 100 index was up 80 points or 0.42 per cent at 19,038.

    Among the sectoral indices, PSU bank, financial services, metal, media, energy and private bank were in the green. Pharma, IT, auto and FMCG were in the red.

    In the Sensex pack, Eternal, Trent, Tata Steel, ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, TCS, BEL, HCLTech, NTPC and SBI were top gainers. Tata Motors, Bajaj Finserv, Sun Pharma, M&M, Bharti Airtel, Maruti Suzuki, L&T, HUL and Asian Paints were top losers.

    “The Nifty 50, after a strong rebound from its intraday low of 24,900, surged nearly 225 points to close above the 25,000 mark, forming a bullish candlestick pattern. The rebound from the 50-day EMA indicates a potential trend reversal, though confirmation through follow-up buying is awaited,” said Mandar Bhojane of Choice Equity Broking Private Limited.

    On the upside, a sustained move above 25,150 could pave the way toward 25,250. Key support levels remain at 25,000 and 24,900, which may offer favourable risk-reward opportunities for long positions, he added.

    Most Asian markets kept to a tight range. Tokyo and Seoul were in the red while Shanghai, Hong Kong and Jakarta were in the green. US markets closed in the mixed zone. Dow Jones was in the red and Nasdaq was in the green.

    On July 21, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) were net sellers for the third consecutive session, offloading equities worth Rs 1,681 crore. In contrast, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) remained strong buyers for the 11th straight day, purchasing equities worth Rs 3,578 crore.

    (IANS)

  • Amarnath Yatra sees huge rush of pilgrims, 3.21 lakh had ‘darshan’ in 19 days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The ongoing Amarnath Yatra has witnessed an overwhelming turnout, with more than 3.21 lakh devotees having undertaken the pilgrimage in the last 19 days since it commenced on July 3. On Tuesday, another batch of 3,536 pilgrims departed from Jammu for the holy cave in Kashmir.

    According to officials, “A fresh batch of 3,536 Yatris left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu today in two escorted convoys headed for the Valley. The first convoy of 48 vehicles, carrying 1,250 pilgrims, departed at 3:33 a.m. for the Baltal base camp, while the second convoy of 84 vehicles, with 2,286 pilgrims, left at 4:06 a.m. for the Pahalgam base camp.”

    “There is a huge rush of Yatris, with thousands arriving daily from across the country at the twin base camps to undertake the Yatra,” added the officials.

    Extensive multi-tier security arrangements have been put in place to ensure the safety of pilgrims. An additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) have been deployed to strengthen the existing presence of the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police. The Army has stationed over 8,000 special commandos along the route to secure the pilgrimage.

    The Amarnath Yatra 2025 will continue for 38 days, concluding on August 9, which coincides with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hongkong Post reports cyberattack

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Hongkong Post has reported an information security incident involving robotic access to information in the address books of its EC-Ship account holders.

    Condemning the attack, its stressed that it will work closely with Police on its investigation into the matter.

    Upon identifying the incident, Hongkong Post took immediate measures to block the unauthorised access. It also followed established guidelines and reported the case to Police, the Digital Policy Office, the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data and the Security Bureau on the same day. The EC-Ship service has resumed as normal.

    Hongkong Post said that based on a preliminary assessment, the incident could involve information in the address books of EC-Ship account holders, including senders’ and recipients’ names, addresses, phone numbers, fax numbers and email addresses. Investigations are ongoing to ascertain the number of account holders affected and whether any personal data leakage is involved. When further updates are available, Hongkong Post will inform affected account holders.

    The service added that it is seeking advice from the Digital Policy Office to assist with its investigations, and will further strengthen system security measures.

    Hongkong Post also reiterated that it does not send embedded hyperlinks via emails, SMS messages or social media pages for the collection of personal information or requesting for payment. Citizens are advised to refrain from clicking on any embedded links or providing any personal or financial data, and from making payments via suspicious emails or SMS messages alleged to be sent by Hongkong Post.

    For enquiries, call 2921 2222.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • South Korea finance minister, trade envoy to hold tariff talks with US counterparts

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    South Korea’s new finance minister and the country’s top trade envoy will meet in Washington with U.S. counterparts on Friday for talks on U.S. tariffs, Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol said on Tuesday.

    The country’s foreign and industry ministers will also visit the U.S. for trade discussions as early as this week, Koo told reporters after a meeting of economic ministers.

    Koo took office on Monday.

    The four officials complete a new cabinet team under President Lee Jae Myung who was sworn in on June 4 after winning a snap election called after his predecessor’s ouster for trying to declare martial law.

    The political turmoil that ensued delayed South Korea’s response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s punishing tariff regime imposed on dozens of trade partners, including key industrial powerhouses that are also security allies.

    Koo and Minister for Trade Yeo Han-koo will hold talks with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on Friday at the request of the U.S. officials, the finance minister said.

    “We’ve had discussions from the perspective of national interest and pragmatism and we’ll do our best to prepare a meticulous strategy until we’re leaving,” Koo said, declining to say whether Seoul was hoping to push back the August 1 deadline before reciprocal tariffs set by Trump are due to come in.

    Yeo said on Tuesday he would seek to base the talks around forming a manufacturing partnership with the United States.

    On Monday, South Korea’s new Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan said tariff talks were in a critical phase that could result in a range of possible outcomes and pledged an all-out effort to wrap up negotiations by August 1.

    Trump has vowed to slap tariffs on a range of countries including South Korea to reduce what he called unfair trade imbalances.

    On Saturday, Japan’s top tariff negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, said he planned to visit Washington this week to hold further ministerial-level talks, as Tokyo hopes to clinch a deal by its August 1 deadline.

    (Reuters)

  • Trump releases Martin Luther King assassination files

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The U.S. Justice Department on Monday released more than 240,000 pages of documents related to the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., including records from the FBI, which had surveilled the civil rights leader as part of an effort to discredit the Nobel Peace Prize winner and his civil rights movement.

    Files were posted on the website of the National Archives, which said more would be released.

    King died of an assassin’s bullet in Memphis, Tennessee, on April 4, 1968, as he increasingly extended his attention from a nonviolent campaign for equal rights for African Americans to economic issues and calls for peace. His death shook the United States in a year that would also bring race riots, anti-Vietnam war demonstrations and the assassination of presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy.

    Earlier this year, President Donald Trump’s administration released thousands of pages of digital documents related to the assassinations of Robert Kennedy and former President John F. Kennedy, who was killed in 1963.

    Trump promised on the campaign trail to provide more transparency about Kennedy’s death. Upon taking office, he also ordered aides to present a plan for the release of records relating to the assassinations of Robert Kennedy and King.

    The FBI kept files on King in the 1950s and 1960s – even wiretapping his phones – because of what the bureau falsely said at the time were his suspected ties to communism during the Cold War between the U.S. and Soviet Union. In recent years, the FBI has acknowledged that as an example of “abuse and overreach” in its history.

    The civil rights leader’s family asked those who engage with the files to “do so with empathy, restraint, and respect for our family’s continuing grief,” and condemned “any attempts to misuse these documents.”

    “Now more than ever, we must honor his sacrifice by committing ourselves to the realization of his dream – a society rooted in compassion, unity, and equality,” they said in a statement.

    “During our father’s lifetime, he was relentlessly targeted by an invasive, predatory, and deeply disturbing disinformation and surveillance campaign orchestrated by J. Edgar Hoover through the Federal Bureau of Investigation,” the family, including his two living children, Martin III, 67, and Bernice, 62, said, referring to the then-FBI director.

    James Earl Ray, a segregationist and drifter, confessed to killing King but later recanted. He died in prison in 1998.

    King’s family said it had filed a wrongful death civil lawsuit in Tennessee in 1999 that led to a jury unanimously concluding “that our father was the victim of a conspiracy involving Loyd Jowers and unnamed co-conspirators, including government agencies as a part of a wider scheme. The verdict also affirmed that someone other than James Earl Ray was the shooter, and that Mr. Ray was set up to take the blame. Our family views that verdict as an affirmation of our long-held beliefs.”

    Jowers, once a Memphis police officer, told ABC’s Prime Time Live in 1993 that he participated in a plot to kill King. A 2023 Justice Department report called his claims dubious.

    (Reuters)

  • IMF’s Gita Gopinath to step down in August, return to Harvard University

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Gita Gopinath, the No. 2 official at the International Monetary Fund, will leave her post at the end of August to return to Harvard University, the IMF said in a statement on Monday.

    IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva will name a successor to Gopinath in “due course,” the IMF said.

    Gopinath joined the fund in 2019 as chief economist – the first woman to serve in that role – and was promoted to first deputy managing director in January 2022.

    No comment was immediately available from the U.S. Treasury, which manages the dominant U.S. shareholding in the IMF. While European countries have traditionally chosen the Fund’s managing director, the U.S. Treasury has traditionally recommended candidates for the first deputy managing director role.

    Gopinath is an Indian-born U.S. citizen.

    The timing of the move caught some IMF insiders by surprise, and appears to have been initiated by Gopinath.

    Gopinath, who had left Harvard to join the IMF, will return to the university as a professor of economics.

    Gopinath’s departure will offer Treasury a chance to recommend a successor at a time when U.S. President Donald Trump is seeking to restructure the global economy and end longstanding U.S. trade deficits with high tariffs on imports from nearly all countries.

    She will return to a university that has been in the Trump administration’s crosshairs after it rejected demands to change its governance, hiring, and admissions practices.

    Georgieva said Gopinath joined the IMF as a highly respected academic and proved to be an “exceptional intellectual leader” during her time, which included the pandemic and global shocks caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

    “Gita steered the Fund’s analytical and policy work with clarity, striving for the highest standards of rigorous analysis at a complex time of high uncertainty and rapidly changing global economic environment,” Georgieva said.

    Gopinath has also overseen the fund’s multilateral surveillance and analytical work on fiscal and monetary policy, debt, and international trade.

    Gopinath said she was grateful for a “once in a lifetime opportunity” to work at the IMF, thanking both Georgieva and the previous IMF chief, Christine Lagarde, who appointed her as chief economist.

    “I now return to my roots in academia, where I look forward to continuing to push the research frontier in international finance and macroeconomics to address global challenges, and to training the next generation of economists,” she said in a statement.

    (Reuters)

  • IMF’s Gita Gopinath to step down in August, return to Harvard University

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Gita Gopinath, the No. 2 official at the International Monetary Fund, will leave her post at the end of August to return to Harvard University, the IMF said in a statement on Monday.

    IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva will name a successor to Gopinath in “due course,” the IMF said.

    Gopinath joined the fund in 2019 as chief economist – the first woman to serve in that role – and was promoted to first deputy managing director in January 2022.

    No comment was immediately available from the U.S. Treasury, which manages the dominant U.S. shareholding in the IMF. While European countries have traditionally chosen the Fund’s managing director, the U.S. Treasury has traditionally recommended candidates for the first deputy managing director role.

    Gopinath is an Indian-born U.S. citizen.

    The timing of the move caught some IMF insiders by surprise, and appears to have been initiated by Gopinath.

    Gopinath, who had left Harvard to join the IMF, will return to the university as a professor of economics.

    Gopinath’s departure will offer Treasury a chance to recommend a successor at a time when U.S. President Donald Trump is seeking to restructure the global economy and end longstanding U.S. trade deficits with high tariffs on imports from nearly all countries.

    She will return to a university that has been in the Trump administration’s crosshairs after it rejected demands to change its governance, hiring, and admissions practices.

    Georgieva said Gopinath joined the IMF as a highly respected academic and proved to be an “exceptional intellectual leader” during her time, which included the pandemic and global shocks caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

    “Gita steered the Fund’s analytical and policy work with clarity, striving for the highest standards of rigorous analysis at a complex time of high uncertainty and rapidly changing global economic environment,” Georgieva said.

    Gopinath has also overseen the fund’s multilateral surveillance and analytical work on fiscal and monetary policy, debt, and international trade.

    Gopinath said she was grateful for a “once in a lifetime opportunity” to work at the IMF, thanking both Georgieva and the previous IMF chief, Christine Lagarde, who appointed her as chief economist.

    “I now return to my roots in academia, where I look forward to continuing to push the research frontier in international finance and macroeconomics to address global challenges, and to training the next generation of economists,” she said in a statement.

    (Reuters)

  • Meri Panchayat App secures WSIS Champion Award 2025 for Digital Governance Excellence

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The “Meri Panchayat” mobile application, a transformative digital governance initiative by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj and the National Informatics Centre (NIC), has been honored with the prestigious World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prizes 2025 Champion Award. The accolade, awarded under the Action Line Category for Cultural Diversity and Identity, Linguistic Diversity, and Local Content, was presented at the WSIS+20 High-Level Event 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland, organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The WSIS Champion Certificate was formally handed over to Union Minister of Panchayati Raj, Rajiv Ranjan Singh, during a ceremonial event in New Delhi, attended by Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel, and Secretary MoPR, Vivek Bharadwaj, among other senior officials.

    Rajiv Ranjan Singh praised the Meri Panchayat initiative for advancing citizen-centric governance through digital innovation. He highlighted the importance of leveraging such tools to enhance transparency, promote participatory democracy, and bridge the knowledge divide at the grassroots level. The app, recognized as a WSIS Prizes 2025 Champion Project, exemplifies India’s global leadership in digital governance.

    The WSIS+20 High-Level Event, held from July 7 to 11 in Geneva, marked two decades since the original WSIS. Co-hosted by ITU and the Swiss Confederation, and co-organized by ITU, UNESCO, UNDP, and UNCTAD, the forum served as a platform to evaluate progress and address challenges in building inclusive information societies. Sunita Jain, Senior Director, NIC/MoPR, accepted the Champion Award on behalf of the Government of India on July 10 during the event.

    The Meri Panchayat app empowers over 25 lakh elected representatives and approximately 950 million rural residents across India’s 2.65 lakh Gram Panchayats. It provides real-time access to panchayat budgets, receipts, payments, and development plans, along with details of elected representatives, public infrastructure, and civic services. The app also offers access to Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs), project tracking, weather forecasts at the Gram Panchayat level, social audit tools, fund utilization data, and grievance redressal with geo-tagged and geo-fenced features. Supporting over 12 Indian languages, the app ensures inclusivity through its multilingual interface. Citizens can propose new projects, review and rate implemented works, and access Gram Sabha agendas and decisions, fostering greater civic engagement and transparency in rural governance.

  • Meri Panchayat App secures WSIS Champion Award 2025 for Digital Governance Excellence

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The “Meri Panchayat” mobile application, a transformative digital governance initiative by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj and the National Informatics Centre (NIC), has been honored with the prestigious World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prizes 2025 Champion Award. The accolade, awarded under the Action Line Category for Cultural Diversity and Identity, Linguistic Diversity, and Local Content, was presented at the WSIS+20 High-Level Event 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland, organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The WSIS Champion Certificate was formally handed over to Union Minister of Panchayati Raj, Rajiv Ranjan Singh, during a ceremonial event in New Delhi, attended by Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel, and Secretary MoPR, Vivek Bharadwaj, among other senior officials.

    Rajiv Ranjan Singh praised the Meri Panchayat initiative for advancing citizen-centric governance through digital innovation. He highlighted the importance of leveraging such tools to enhance transparency, promote participatory democracy, and bridge the knowledge divide at the grassroots level. The app, recognized as a WSIS Prizes 2025 Champion Project, exemplifies India’s global leadership in digital governance.

    The WSIS+20 High-Level Event, held from July 7 to 11 in Geneva, marked two decades since the original WSIS. Co-hosted by ITU and the Swiss Confederation, and co-organized by ITU, UNESCO, UNDP, and UNCTAD, the forum served as a platform to evaluate progress and address challenges in building inclusive information societies. Sunita Jain, Senior Director, NIC/MoPR, accepted the Champion Award on behalf of the Government of India on July 10 during the event.

    The Meri Panchayat app empowers over 25 lakh elected representatives and approximately 950 million rural residents across India’s 2.65 lakh Gram Panchayats. It provides real-time access to panchayat budgets, receipts, payments, and development plans, along with details of elected representatives, public infrastructure, and civic services. The app also offers access to Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs), project tracking, weather forecasts at the Gram Panchayat level, social audit tools, fund utilization data, and grievance redressal with geo-tagged and geo-fenced features. Supporting over 12 Indian languages, the app ensures inclusivity through its multilingual interface. Citizens can propose new projects, review and rate implemented works, and access Gram Sabha agendas and decisions, fostering greater civic engagement and transparency in rural governance.