NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI: RBB Bancorp Declares Quarterly Cash Dividend of $0.16 Per Common Share

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, April 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RBB Bancorp (NASDAQ: RBB) and its subsidiaries, Royal Business Bank (“the Bank”) and RBB Asset Management Company (“RAM”), collectively referred to herein as “the Company”, announced that its Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.16 per common share. The dividend is payable on May 12, 2025 to common shareholders of record as of April 30, 2025.

    Corporate Overview

    RBB Bancorp is a bank holding company headquartered in Los Angeles, California. As of December 31, 2024, the Company had total assets of $4.0 billion. Its wholly-owned subsidiary, Royal Business Bank, is a full service commercial bank, which provides consumer and business banking services predominantly to the Asian-centric communities in Los Angeles County, Orange County, and Ventura County in California, in Las Vegas, Nevada, in Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan in New York, in Edison, New Jersey, in the Chicago neighborhoods of Chinatown and Bridgeport, Illinois, and on Oahu, Hawaii. Bank services include remote deposit, E-banking, mobile banking, commercial and investor real estate loans, business loans and lines of credit, commercial and industrial loans, SBA 7A and 504 loans, 1-4 single family residential loans, trade finance, a full range of depository account products and wealth management services. The Bank has nine branches in Los Angeles County, two branches in Ventura County, one branch in Orange County, California, one branch in Las Vegas, Nevada, three branches and one loan operation center in Brooklyn, three branches in Queens, one branch in Manhattan in New York, one branch in Edison, New Jersey, two branches in Chicago, Illinois, and one branch in Honolulu, Hawaii. The Company’s administrative and lending center is located at 1055 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, California 90017, and its finance and operations center is located at 7025 Orangethorpe Ave., Buena Park, California 90621. The Company’s website address is www.royalbusinessbankusa.com.

    Contacts

    Lynn Hopkins, EVP/Chief Financial Officer, (657) 255-3282

    Safe Harbor

    Certain matters set forth herein (including the exhibits hereto) constitute forward-looking statements relating to the Company’s current business plans and expectations and our future financial position and operating results. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance and/or achievements to differ materially from those projected. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting and disclosure controls and procedures; the potential for additional material weaknesses in the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting or other potential control deficiencies of which the Company is not currently aware or which have not been detected; business and economic conditions generally and in the financial services industry, nationally and within our current and future geographic markets, including the tight labor market, ineffective management of the U.S. federal budget or debt or turbulence or uncertainly in domestic of foreign financial markets; the strength of the United States economy in general and the strength of the local economies in which we conduct operations; adverse developments in the banking industry highlighted by high-profile bank failures and the potential impact of such developments on customer confidence, liquidity and regulatory responses to these developments; our ability to attract and retain deposits and access other sources of liquidity; possible additional provisions for credit losses and charge-offs; credit risks of lending activities and deterioration in asset or credit quality; extensive laws and regulations and supervision that we are subject to, including potential supervisory action by bank supervisory authorities; increased costs of compliance and other risks associated with changes in regulation, including any amendments to the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act; compliance with the Bank Secrecy Act and other money laundering statutes and regulations; potential goodwill impairment; liquidity risk; fluctuations in interest rates; risks associated with acquisitions and the expansion of our business into new markets; inflation and deflation; real estate market conditions and the value of real estate collateral; the effects of having concentrations in our loan portfolio, including commercial real estate and the risks of geographic and industry concentrations; environmental liabilities; our ability to compete with larger competitors; our ability to retain key personnel; successful management of reputational risk; severe weather, natural disasters, earthquakes, fires, such as the recent California wildfires; or other adverse external events could harm our business; geopolitical conditions, including acts or threats of terrorism, actions taken by the United States or other governments in response to acts or threats of terrorism and/or military conflicts, including the conflicts between Russia and Ukraine, in the Middle East and increasing tensions between China and Taiwan, which could impact business and economic conditions in the United States and abroad; public health crises and pandemics, and their effects on the economic and business environments in which we operate, including our credit quality and business operations, as well as the impact on general economic and financial market conditions; general economic or business conditions in Asia, and other regions where the Bank has operations; failures, interruptions, or security breaches of our information systems; climate change, including any enhanced regulatory, compliance, credit and reputational risks and costs; cybersecurity threats and the cost of defending against them; our ability to adapt our systems to the expanding use of technology in banking; risk management processes and strategies; adverse results in legal proceedings; the impact of regulatory enforcement actions, if any; certain provisions in our charter and bylaws that may affect acquisition of the Company; changes in tax laws and regulations; the impact of governmental efforts to restructure the U.S. financial regulatory system; the impact of future or recent changes in Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) insurance assessment rate of the rules and regulations related to the calculation of the FDIC insurance assessment amount; the effect of changes in accounting policies and practices or accounting standards, as may be adopted from time-to-time by bank regulatory agencies, the SEC, the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, the Financial Accounting Standards Board or other accounting standards setters, including Accounting Standards Update 2016-13 (Topic 326, “Measurement of Current Losses on Financial Instruments, commonly referenced as the Current Expected Credit Losses Model, which changed how we estimate credit losses and may further increase the required level of our allowance for credit losses in future periods; market disruption and volatility; fluctuations in the Company’s stock price; restrictions on dividends and other distributions by laws and regulations and by our regulators and our capital structure; issuances of preferred stock; our ability to raise additional capital, if needed, and the potential resulting dilution of interests of holders of our common stock; the soundness of other financial institutions; our ongoing relations with our various federal and state regulators, including the SEC, FDIC, FRB and California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (“DFPI”); our success at managing the risks involved in the foregoing items and all other factors set forth in the Company’s public reports, including its Annual Report as filed under Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and particularly the discussion of risk factors within that document. The Company does not undertake, and specifically disclaims any obligation, to update any forward-looking statements to reflect occurrences or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements except as required by law. Any statements about future operating results, such as those concerning accretion and dilution to the Company’s earnings or shareholders, are for illustrative purposes only, are not forecasts, and actual results may differ.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Biolight—Living Light

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Biolight—Living Light

    Megumi Mizoguchi
    Design Division,Panasonic Corporation

    Noriyuki Hatsugai
    Green Transformation Division,Technology Sector,Panasonic Holdings Corporation

    Takashi Kanno
    Green Transformation Division,Technology Sector,Panasonic Holdings Corporation

    Satoshi Sasaki
    Department of Medical Technology,School of Health Sciences,Tokyo University of Technology

    Bringing Together People, Organizations, and Expertise to Unlock New Possibilities
    Mizoguchi: The idea of combining light and biological organisms came from an independent research project I pursued, which was encouraged by the Transformation Design Center where I work. While my background is in biology, most of my work at the company has involved physics and chemistry, so when it came to my own research, I wanted to bring the focus back to biology.
    Hatsugai: Before joining the company, I was also involved in the field of biology, researching ways to use biologically generated light, like luminescent proteins, as tools. That experience naturally led me to explore luminescent bacteria as a potential theme for commercialization.
    Mizoguchi: When I told my supervisor I wanted to explore the fusion of light and biology, he introduced me to Mr. Hatsugai. We quickly realized we were working on similar themes and hit it off right away, so we decided to team up on the project.
    Hatsugai: At the time, though, my bacterial strain did not emit much light…hardly enough to call it “light” at all. That led me to dig deeper, and through my research, I came across the work of Professor Sasaki.
    Sasaki: I was thrilled when I got a message saying, “I’m interested in luminescent bacteria!” I’ve studied bacteria for many years, but since their light output isn’t strong enough for practical lighting, I always felt it would be hard to bring them into real-world use. The chance to collaborate with Panasonic gave me hope, and I quickly shared one of my brightest strains with them.

    Mizoguchi: When we first met, Professor Sasaki had a tiny vial of glowing bacteria tucked into his shirt pocket—it made me smile. His deep passion for his research was evident, and I thought to myself, “If it’s with him, we can definitely make living light a reality.”
    Hatsugai: Professor Sasaki provided more than just the bacterial strain; he also gave us invaluable guidance on adjusting key conditions for culturing, like nutrients and oxygen levels. Thanks to his advice, we were able to get the bacteria to emit light in a large tank. Together with Mr. Kanno, who handles the equipment, we’ve taken on the challenge of keeping the glow going as long as possible. Throughout the six-month Expo, we’re confident that visitors will be able to witness the glowing bacteria at any time.
    Kanno: I joined the team in April 2024. With a background in electrical engineering, this was my first time developing equipment for use in biology. It’s been full of surprises and challenges, but there were moments when my ideas—coming from outside the field of biology—helped broaden the project’s scope. That sense of contribution has made this challenge deeply rewarding.
    Mizoguchi: I believe the real strength of this project came from combining different perspectives, namely biology, which is Mr. Hatsugai’s and my specialty, Panasonic’s core strength in engineering, Professor Sasaki’s expertise from outside the organization, and Mr. Kanno’s fresh ideas from a different field. Through this blend of diverse skills and backgrounds, we were able to spark new ideas and tackle even the toughest challenges.

    Working with Living Organisms is Challenging—But That’s What Makes It So Fascinating
    Sasaki: It has been two years since I was first approached about the project, and today was the first time I saw the actual setup. I was truly impressed to see the bacteria glowing steadily in such a large volume of liquid.
    Hatsugai: Since we’re working with living organisms, fine-tuning the conditions was incredibly challenging. Too much or too little food or oxygen would throw everything off. Even when we got the balance just right, changes in the surrounding environment could still cause the bacteria to stop glowing. There was even one time when they wouldn’t glow at all…until Ms. Mizoguchi walked into the lab, and suddenly, they lit up!
    Mizoguchi: It really felt like we were having a dialogue with the bacteria as we worked through the research. Unlike machines, they couldn’t be controlled precisely. While that was frustrating at times, I think it’s also what made us feel such a strong connection and dedication to the project.
    Kanno: If we focused only on making the culturing process work, the equipment ended up looking unappealing. Since this was meant to be an exhibit for a broad audience, we made sure to prioritize the visual design as well, developing the equipment with both function and form in mind.
    Sasaki: Keeping luminescent bacteria glowing in a large tank over a long period is highly challenging. Over the years, I’ve had people from various industries approach me with ideas such as using them in stage productions or trying to raise them, but none of those concepts ever came to life. Panasonic, however, brought something different: not only the technical expertise to make it happen, but the drive and momentum to move the project forward with real force.

    Experimenting with Biolight

    Creating a Gentle, Formative Experience to Light Up Children’s Hearts
    Kanno: I’m excited that we get to showcase a project we all worked on together at the Expo, a venue that’s so open to the public. I originally became an engineer at Panasonic because I wanted to contribute to society through technology, and this project feels like a direct opportunity to fulfill that dream.
    Hatsugai: Our company has a long history of lighting up daily life in Japan, something many people still remember from the old television commercial songs. As one of the country’s leading lighting manufacturers, we believe our mission is to develop lighting solutions that coexist with the natural environment with a view to the future. While there’s still a long way to go in terms of advancing the technology for commercialization, we see the Expo as a decisive first step toward introducing a new concept of light to society.
    Mizoguchi: As Mr. Hatsugai mentioned, we’re exploring a new kind of light that coexists with nature and offers more than just illumination. We want to create an experience that warms children’s hearts. We hope to give them a gentle, formative memory they’ll carry with them and recall unexpectedly, even years later.
    Sasaki: The light from luminescent bacteria sways gently and quietly touches the heart. That’s what makes it so special. After the Great East Japan Earthquake, our university was affected by scheduled blackouts, and I once took the bacterial strains home to keep them safe. I brought the container into my bedroom and saw my young daughter peacefully asleep, her face softly lit by the gentle glow. In that moment, I felt a deep sense of calm. I truly believe that the flickering, tender light of living organisms can move people in ways words never could.

    Mizoguchi: The theme of the Earth area is a “720° cycle” between people and nature. Rather than focusing solely on technology for either people or nature, I believe that the true 720° cycle emerges from the mutual exchange of abundance, where people and nature connect, support, and circulate with each other. I hope that children visiting the pavilion will grasp the importance of this connection not through words, but through the experience itself.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Cyanobacteria—Technology that Nurtures Nature Through Nature

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Cyanobacteria—Technology that Nurtures Nature Through Nature

    Seiji Kojima
    Green Transformation Division,Technology Sector,Panasonic Holdings Corporation

    Michael Shadovitz
    Design Division,Panasonic Corporation

    Toshiki Tanisaki
    Ryokukou Garden

    Encouraging Growth in the Truest, Most Natural Way—That’s Novitek
    Kojima: While animals like us get the nutrients we need for survival through food, plants use their chloroplasts to perform photosynthesis and generate the energy required for growth. “Novitek” is a technology that enhances photosynthesis, stimulating plant growth. It works by transforming cyanobacteria into a biological plant growth stimulant, mimicking the role of chloroplasts.
    Michael: When I first discovered this technology, I thought, “This is incredible!” Everywhere you go, people are talking about the need to increase greenery to tackle food shortages and environmental issues. But if we’re only expanding plants in limited spaces or spending excessive amounts of money and energy on greening efforts, it doesn’t really achieve much. What sets Novitek apart is that it offers an easy way to encourage plant growth simply by spraying it on plants. On top of that, it’s made from natural, biologically derived ingredients. I believe we need to spread this technology further and make more people aware of it.
    Kojima: Initially, this technology was developed with field and greenhouse crops in mind, so when I first heard about using Novitek for an Expo exhibit, I was honestly surprised. I also had concerns about whether it could be effective for houseplants or indoor pot cultivation.

    Michael: We really wanted to use Novitek, but we wondered if it would even be possible. To address this question, we brought in Mr. Tanisaki from Ryokukou Garden, a plant expert. He was already familiar with exhibits like those that decorate trains with plants, and I felt he would view our challenge of bringing greenery to places that lack it in a positive, enthusiastic way. So, I reached out to him.
    Tanisaki: I had been involved in landscaping for Expo-related projects before, so I was thrilled when I was approached for this one. As a landscape designer, I frequently work on exhibits, but typically, they last only a week or two. With the Expo running for six months, I quickly realized that maintaining the health and vibrancy of the plants for such an extended period would be a significant challenge.
    Kojima: With Mr. Tanisaki on board and the expertise of Ryokukou Garden, we began the experiment. The main challenges were determining whether we could maintain plants indoors in pots for an extended period, and whether Novitek could still stimulate growth in that setting. Based on the results, we selected the plants that would be showcased in the Earth area.
    Tanisaki: The experiment helped us determine which plants could stay healthy over the long term, how much light they needed, and what height it should be applied. We’ll be showcasing the whole process, from cultivation to harvest, focusing on corn, mini tomatoes, bananas, and asparagus.

    Embracing the Fun of This Project, Unexpected Challenges and All
    Kojima: This project has been a massive source of inspiration for me. The idea of using Novitek—initially developed for crops—on houseplants was an entirely new perspective I hadn’t considered before. Beyond that, working with Ryokukou Garden to actually grow the plants and collaborating with the team to share ideas… It’s been a completely different experience from my usual work, where I quietly conduct research in the lab. The space that Mr. Tanisaki set up for the experiments is incredible, don’t you think? It felt like a secret hideout, and I was excited every time I walked in (laughs).
    Tanisaki: I’ve always grown plants with the assumption they’d be under natural sunlight, so it was a refreshing experience to observe them while measuring the intensity of artificial light. For instance, figuring out things like “This plant needs XX lux” or “With artificial light, it has to be placed at this distance.” This project has been a great learning experience for me, and I feel like my knowledge has really expanded.
    Michael: Environmental challenges have reached a point where even large companies can’t tackle them alone. That’s why collaboration must extend beyond our walls, whether it be with technology or between people. I believe this approach is not only a mission for Panasonic, but something that should become increasingly standard moving forward.

    The dedicated space within Ryokukou Garden’s facilities for the experiment

    Kojima: The real challenge of our exhibit starts once we bring the plants into the venue. We can expect some unexpected hurdles, whether it’s the lighting or temperature. But that’s the beauty of working with plants, and I believe the only way to overcome these challenges is by facing them together as a team.
    Tanisaki: Plants have their own individual variations, so what worked in the experiment may not always work as expected. But if we’re going to do this, I really want it to be something that makes children say, “What plant is this?” “Wow, that’s its name!” or “This shape is so cool!”—something that will spark their excitement and curiosity.
    Michael: Today’s kids may only know tomatoes as just tomatoes, right? But when they see how something they only recognize as a fruit actually grows on a branch, it will surely make a lasting impression. We don’t know exactly how things will unfold yet, but if they can touch the plants or spot a few bugs, I think it would be wonderful to create a space where they can engage with nature in the most natural way possible.

    Envisioning a Future Where Novitek is Integrated into Cities and Daily Life
    Michael: I hope the children visiting the Earth area will see the vibrant greenery and think, “I’d love for my city to look like this,” or “I want to help create a city like this.” The Expo exhibit is just a stepping stone. Our ultimate goal is to inspire everyone to work together to build a more natural and thriving city and way of life.
    Kojima: If we can demonstrate that Novitek works not only on crops but also on non-food plants like houseplants, I believe the potential applications will grow in many areas. This includes using it to enhance greenery for urban development, or even helping plants grow for fuel production. I sense that Novitek has the potential to make a significant contribution to society in many different ways.
    Michael: Urban environments are becoming tougher by the day, right? Summers are getting hotter, winters colder, and the weather is changing in ways we didn’t see before. But if Novitek can help plants thrive in these harsh conditions, I believe it will contribute to creating green infrastructure—something that goes far beyond just adding greenery.

    Tanisaki: Having lived in Africa until two years ago, I’ve seen the global food crisis up close. I believe that as Novitek gains more applications and becomes widely recognized, demand from overseas will grow. Starting with the Expo, I hope Novitek spreads across Japanese society and, eventually, internationally. It would be great to see that momentum take off.
    Michael: To make that happen, we need to focus on the Expo first. We’ll all do our best to visit the venue as much as possible and take care of everything (laughs). I’m hoping we can enjoy even the challenges that come with it.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Blount Island Command Lays Backbone to Balikatan

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    DINGALAN BAY, Philippines — As thousands of troops prepare for Balikatan 25, the largest-ever iteration of the U.S.-Philippines bilateral exercise, Blount Island Command arrived in mid-March as a critical partner in combined joint logistics and maritime deployment. The command, headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, ensures combat-ready equipment and supplies are readily available, serving as a logistical backbone for the exercise and demonstrating the U.S. commitment to its allies in the region. Some 16 nations will participate, including Australia and, for the first time, Japan.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 3d MLR Deploys NMESIS to Philippines for Exercise Balikatan 25

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    NORTHERN LUZON, Philippines — Following the announcement by U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth during his visit to Manila on March 28, U.S. Marines with 3d Marine Littoral Regiment deployed the Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System to the Philippines in support of Exercise Balikatan 25. This marks the inaugural deployment of the newly fielded Marine Corps weapon system to the Philippines and serves as a major milestone for the continuously developing U.S.-Philippines Alliance.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Airmen, aircraft deploy in support of first Bomber Task Force mission to Japan

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan — A Bomber Task Force deployment of U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer aircraft, Airmen and support equipment from the 9th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, arrived at Misawa Air Base, Japan, April 15, 2025, to support Pacific Air Forces’ training efforts with Allies, partners, and joint forces and strategic deterrence missions to reinforce regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Vancouver, Senator Murray Meets with Local Businesses, ILWU, Port of Kalama to Discuss How Trump’s Chaotic Trade War is Hurting Washington State

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    ICYMI: In Tacoma, Senator Murray Meets with Local Businesses, Port Commissioners to Discuss How Trump’s Chaotic Trade War is Hurting Washington State
    ICYMI: In Senate Floor Speech, Senator Murray Hammers Trump and Republicans on Chaotic, Painful Trade War and Steep Tariffs Raising Costs on Families and Small Businesses in WA
    ***PHOTOS and B-ROLL HERE***
    Vancouver, WA— Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, held a roundtable discussion in Vancouver highlighting how local businesses, ports, and the overall economy in Washington state is suffering from President Trump’s senseless and chaotic trade war. Senator Murray was joined for the discussion by John Rudi, CEO of Thompson Metal Fab in Vancouver; Miriam Halliday, CEO of Workforce Southwest Washington; Jared Moultrie, Vice President of the International Longshore & Warehouse Workers’ Union (ILWU) Local 4 in Vancouver; Augusto Bassanini, CEO of United Grain; and Mark Wilson, Executive Director of the Port of Kalama.
    On April 2nd, President Trump announced sweeping new tariffs on nearly every country, including a 10 percent baseline tariff on all imported goods, and country-specific so-called reciprocal tariffs. Just hours after the reciprocal tariff rates took effect last Wednesday, Trump abruptly changed his mind and put a 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs. But Trump is still taxing goods from every country, across the board, at 10 percent at least, and he is escalating his trade war with China, with 145 percent tariffs on Chinese goods—which is already leading to higher prices and serious pain for families and small business across Washington state. Senator Murray has always been vocal about the need to out-compete China, but warned that waging an all-out trade war with China on a whim will cause serious economic pain for consumers and small businesses across the country.
    Even with his “pause,” Trump’s new tariff rates are still the highest in decades, and are estimated to cost American families more than $4,000 per year—the largest tax increase since 1968.
    “Trump’s tariffs are a tax—a tax that will hit hardworking Americans the most. Families will be paying higher prices, small businesses will have to lay off workers, and Washington’s ports will be gutted as trade drops. That’s a lot of jobs on the line in our ports like Kalama and Vancouver along the Columbia River,” said Senator Murray. “Congress has the power to step in and put a stop to these senseless tariffs, we can bring back certainty to protect American businesses and the economy.”
    “Businesses can’t function when they are waiting to see if Trump will change his mind again about what countries will have tariffs, and at what rate, as if this should be something decided on a whim,” Senator Murray continued. “Every morning small business owners, port longshoremen, warehouse workers, and families wake up wondering if today will be the day they have to close up shop or will lose their job. Congress needs to step up and put an end to these tariffs—but we need Republicans to join us in order to do that. I will keep shining a light on the consequences of Trump’s painful trade war will bring and amplifying the voices and concerns of people in Washington state.”
    Washington state has one of the most trade-dependent economies of any state in the country, with 40 percent of jobs tied to international commerce. Washington state is the top U.S. producer of apples, blueberries, hops, pears, spearmint oil, and sweet cherries—all of which risk losing vital export markets due to retaliatory tariffs from key trading partners including Canada. Additionally, more than 12,000 small and medium-sized companies in Washington state export goods and will struggle to absorb the impact of retaliatory tariffs.
    Canada is Washington’s largest overall trading partner, accounting for nearly $20 billion in imports and $10 billion in exports. China is the world’s second-largest economy and Washington state exported over $12 billion in goods to China last year—making China Washington state’s top export partner—and imported $11.2 billion in goods, the second-most in imports from any country aside from Canada. Trump’s tariffs during his first term were extremely costly for Washington state—for example, India imposed a 20 percent retaliatory tariff on U.S. apples, causing Washington apple shipments to India to fall by 99 percent and growers to lose hundreds of millions of dollars in exports.
    “Tariffs simply add cost to major infrastructure projects, and there are very few ways the additional cost impacts of tariffs can be reduced or mitigated,” said John Rudi, CEO of Thompson Metal Fab, a veteran-owned, Vancouver-based metal fabrication company that makes products for the gas and oil industries, and is entering new markets creating products for nuclear, high-tech, and renewable energies. “There are serious concerns about the impact of tariffs on projects that have already been contracted or bid—and an even larger concern than the direct financial impact of tariffs is the uncertainty it creates. Uncertainly only delays, and possibly freezes, major industrial projects. When work is delayed, highly-skilled workers are lost, resulting in long-term impacts to industrial capacity. And once industrial demand stabilizes and returns to normal, the surge in business can result in inflationary costs due to increased competition for workers and resources… Senator Murray has been a strong and consistent advocate for job creation and infrastructure projects in our region and we are pleased to have her visit today to discuss how businesses and the local workforce are impacted by tariffs.”
    “The continued volatility in international tariff strategies is creating significant challenges for workforce development across industries in Southwest Washington,” said Miriam Halliday, CEO of Workforce Southwest, the Local Workforce Development Board designated as the policy, planning and oversight body for the public workforce system in Clark, Cowlitz, and Wahkiakum counties. “Companies are increasingly hesitant to expand or invest in talent due to rising costs and economic uncertainty. For instance, a mid-sized IT Managed Service Provider located in Vancouver WA is facing a 15% increase in order costs, making it difficult to forecast budgets and commit to workforce growth. Similarly, a mid-sized die casting manufacturer located in Vancouver WA has paused its expansion this quarter—not due to lack of demand, but because financial institutions are withholding loans for new equipment out of recession fears. As a result, plans to hire and upskill workers have been deferred, highlighting how external economic pressures are directly stalling local and regional workforce development.”
    “Our ports face significant challenges and uncertainties in light of potential trade wars,” said Jared Moultrie, Vice President of the International Longshore & Warehouse Workers’ Union (ILWU) Local 4 in Vancouver, representing dock workers in the region. “In 2024, the Port of Vancouver supported nearly 20,000 jobs and generated $2.9 billion in regional economic benefits. United Grain Corporation, Longshoremen, Railroad workers, Tugboat crews, Truck operators, and Farmers from the American West and Midwest facilitated the movement of 5.9 million metric tons of agricultural commodities through the Port of Vancouver. The retaliatory tariffs imposed by China have the potential to significantly reduce employment opportunities for these men and women and diminish the economic benefits within our regionThe Port of Vancouver operates as a breakbulk port, and proposed tariffs would heavily impact everything we handle. Steel is projected to experience an estimated 30 percent decrease, having never recovered from the previous set of tariffs. Currently, we service two aluminum ships per month and conduct weekly aluminum loadouts onto trucks or railcars. The aluminum sector would be seriously jeopardized if tariffs were to deepen. As the number one importer of Subaru vehicles, we are already anticipating around a 20 percent decrease in cars arriving at our dock.”
    “At Local 4, our workers are concerned about job security due to the proposed tariffs. We are already contending with rising car payments, mortgage payments, and costs of goods and services. We worry about whether we will be able to afford our children’s tuition, take planned vacations, make substantial purchases, or even dine out. The trickle-down effect on regional companies, truck drivers, farmers, small businesses, and everyone in between could be devastating,” Moultrie continued. “We extend our gratitude to Senator Murray for her dedication and continued commitment to supporting the ILWU and our ports, working-class individuals, our region, our state, and the United States of America.”
    “We greatly appreciate Senator Murray’s engagement and efforts to understand how the proposed tariffs are impacting American grain exports,” said Augusto Bassanini, CEO of United Grain Corporation, which sources grain and oilseeds from more than 2,000 suppliers in the Pacific Northwest and Northern Plains. “To help the 2,000 American farmers we work with remain competitive in the global market, we need certainty to navigate a global marketplace so we can continue to create jobs, domestic economic development opportunities and feed the world.” 
    Senator Murray has been a vocal opponent of Trump’s chaotic trade war and has been lifting up the voices of people in Washington state harmed by this administration’s approach to trade. Senator Murray continues to call on Republicans to end Trump’s trade war—which Congress has the power to do—and take back Congress’ Constitutionally-granted power to impose tariffs. Earlier this month, Senator Murray brought together leaders across Washington state who highlighted how Trump’s ongoing trade war is already a devastating hit to Washington state’s economy, businesses, and our agriculture sector. Senator Murray also took to the Senate floor to lay out how Trump’s chaotic trade war is seriously threatening our economy, American businesses, families’ retirement savings, and so much else. Earlier this week, Senator Murray joined her colleagues in pressing U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer on how the Trump administration’s tariffs are affecting farmers across the country.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Visits Downtown Vancouver, Highlights Importance of Federal Investment Amid Local Concerns Over Trump Funding Freezes, Tariff Chaos

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    ICYMI: In Vancouver, Senator Murray Meets with Local Businesses, ILWU, Port Commissioner to Discuss How Trump’s Chaotic Trade War is Hurting Washington State
    ***PHOTOS and B-ROLL HERE***
    Vancouver, WA— Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, toured businesses in downtown Vancouver, as part of the Main Street Promise project, to see how federal investment has supported their growth and how Trump’s chaotic trade war and federal funding freezes are harming the local economy. Senator Murray was joined for the tour by Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle; Michael Walker, Executive Director of the Vancouver Downtown Association; Chris Harder, Deputy Economic Development Director for the City of Vancouver; Julie Arenz, Small Business Connector and Advocate for the City of Vancouver; Ryan Hart, Chair of Visit Vancouver and Chief External Affairs Officer for the Port of Vancouver; Kelsey Jennings, Owner of Ronald Records in downtown Vancouver; and Crystal Lary, Owner of Eryngium Papeterie in downtown Vancouver.
    During the visit, Senator Murray heard from business owners and leaders at the City of Vancouver about how federal investment in Vancouver has helped lay the groundwork for thriving small businesses and spurred other construction and renovation projects in the downtown core. The City of Vancouver has been working on a 20-year revitalization effort that Senator Murray helped kickstart by securing initial federal funding for the Waterfront Redevelopment Project in 2009. The Main Street Promise Project is one of the last phases of the revitalization effort and was funded through the American Rescue Plan Act Senator Murray played a leading role in crafting as then-Chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee. The major reconstruction project on Main Street broke ground in December 2024—with original planning work done in 1993 with the goal of improving the heart of Vancouver. The Main Street Promise Project will reconstruct Main Street to provide a safe, accessible, and connected transportation system to support existing small businesses along Main Street and attract more visitors to Downtown Vancouver.
    Senator Murray also heard from small business owners and local leaders about how the Trump administration’s illegal withholding of federal funding owed to communities across the country and his reckless trade war is leading to serious uncertainty for businesses, consumers, and communities across Southwest Washington. Trump is currently taxing goods from every country—including close allies like Canada—at a minimum 10 percent tariff rate across-the-board, and he has significantly escalated his trade war with China, with 145 percent tariffs on Chinese goods—meaning higher prices and serious pain for families and small businesses across the country. Even with his 90-day “pause” on reciprocal tariffs, Trump’s new tariffs are still the highest tariff rates in decades, and are estimated to cost American families more than $4,000 per year—the largest tax increase since 1968.
    “It’s wonderful to see how the federal investment I’ve fought to bring to Southwest Washington over the years has helped downtown Vancouver thrive—with so many great small businesses and new infrastructure and renovation projects that are making the heart of Vancouver a destination for shopping, eating, nightlife, and more,” said Senator Murray. “Trump is putting all the progress our communities have made at risk by illegally canceling and holding up federal funding our communities are owed, and he is putting businesses in constant turmoil with his pointless and destructive trade war. I will continue to sound the alarm on the consequences Trump’s illegal funding freezes and his ham-fisted trade war will have for American families, and I will always lift up the voices and concerns of people in Washington state.”
    “The transformation of Vancouver’s downtown into a regional and national destination is years in the making,” said Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. “The current reconstruction of Main Street into a pedestrian-centered and vibrant commercial corridor represents downtown Vancouver’s most recent evolution. Over the past 20+ years, Senator Murray has been one of Vancouver’s biggest champions, helping to steer critical federal funds, such as American Rescue Plan Act dollars, to our community to help fund placemaking and infrastructure investments. The City of Vancouver would like to thank Senator Murray for her leadership and we are grateful for her willingness to partner on important local projects like Main Street Promise.”    
    “The Main Street Promise is a realization of a vision that’s been decades in the making. This is the third time our community has tried to bring this project to life, and now—thanks to Senator Patty Murray and the American Rescue Plan—we finally have what we need to get it done,” said Michael Walker, Executive Director of Vancouver’s Downtown Association. “This is the largest investment in Main Street in 116 years, and it’s going to reshape the heart of our downtown into a safer, more connected, and more accessible place for everyone. This project is about building a strong foundation for the future of our downtown—leaving something great for the next generation and beyond. Senator Patty Murray’s steadfast advocacy on behalf of Vancouver has helped us achieve real outcomes in the heart of our community—improving quality of life, supporting local businesses, and strengthening our downtown economy for the long term.”
    “In addition, thanks to the unique opportunity provided by ARPA dollars, we’re able to go beyond traditional infrastructure work,” Walker continued. “We have staff on the ground every day and thoughtful mitigation efforts in place—like block-by-block construction—to help minimize disruption. Businesses are staying open, sidewalks remain accessible, and we’ve built a strong network of peer support to help keep our business community resilient and thriving throughout the process. For a project of this scale, we’re doing everything we can to make sure it’s as smooth and supportive as possible.
    Washington state has one of the most trade-dependent economies of any state in the country, with 40 percent of jobs tied to international commerce. Washington state is the top U.S. producer of apples, blueberries, hops, pears, spearmint oil, and sweet cherries—all of which risk losing vital export markets due to retaliatory tariffs from key trading partners including Canada. Additionally, more than 12,000 small and medium-sized companies in Washington state export goods and will be unlikely to be able to absorb the impact of retaliatory tariffs. Canada is Washington’s largest trading partner, accounting for nearly $20 billion in imports and $10 billion in exports. China is the world’s second-largest economy and Washington state exported over $12 billion in goods to China last year—making China Washington state’s top export partner—and imported $11.2 billion in goods, the most in imports from any country aside from Canada. Trump’s tariffs during his first term were extremely costly for Washington state—for example, India imposed a 20 percent retaliatory tariff on U.S. apples, causing Washington apple shipments to India to fall by 99 percent and growers to lose hundreds of millions of dollars in exports.
    Senator Murray has been a vocal opponent of Trump’s chaotic trade war and has been lifting up the voices of people in Washington state harmed by this administration’s approach to trade and calling on Republicans to end Trump’s trade war—which Congress has the power to do—and take back Congress’ Constitutionally-granted power to impose tariffs. Earlier this month, Senator Murray brought together leaders across Washington state who highlighted how Trump’s ongoing trade war is already a devastating hit to Washington state’s economy, businesses, and our agriculture sector. Senator Murray also took to the Senate floor to lay out how Trump’s chaotic trade war is seriously threatening our economy, American businesses, families’ retirement savings, and so much else. Earlier this week, Senator Murray joined her colleagues in pressing U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on how the Trump administration’s tariffs are affecting farmers across the country.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Auckland theatre nurses strike over unpaid overtime claim – NZNO

    Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

    Te Toka Tumai Auckland Te Whatu Ora nurses who are members of the New Zealand Nurses Organisation Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki O Aotearoa (NZNO) are striking over attempts by Health New Zealand not to pay them for involuntary overtime.
    About 370 perioperative (which includes preoperative, theatre and postoperative) nurses working at Auckland City Hospital, Starship Hospital and Greenlane Clinical Centre will strike for two hours on 1 May.
    NZNO chief executive Paul Goulter says the perioperative nurses have been doing involuntary and unpaid overtime for years because they put their patients first.
    “They are fed up with their goodwill being taken advantage of. They have sacrificed enough and want recognition for the years of work they have done.
    “Te Whatu Ora has now raised a last minute claim in collective agreement negotiations which can only be seen as a shameful attempt to avoid paying these nurses appropriate compensation for working past their shifts to help patients having operations,” Paul Goulter says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fire Safety – Most of Northland now in open fire season

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    Fire and Emergency New Zealand has moved most of Te Tai Tokerau Northland District back to an open fire season from 12am this morning, Friday 18 April, until further notice.
    An open fire season means people planning to light fires outdoors no longer need to apply to Fire and Emergency for authorised permits.
    However, the Muriwhenua area remains in a restricted fire season where permits are still required, and outdoor fires are still prohibited on off-shore islands.
    Northland District Manager Wipari Henwood says lower temperatures and some solid rainfall means the fire risk present over summer has lessened in the district.
    “After dealing with some significant and prolonged wildfires over the summer, recent fires have been small and quickly contained,” he says.
    “We do ask people to continue to take care when lighting any fires, and if you’re not sure what the conditions are for your location, go to checkitsalright.nz .
    “It’s important we all do our part to keep Te Tai Tokerau safe from wildfire all year round.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fire Safety – Open fire season starts for Thames-Coromandel, Waikato Northern

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    Fire and Emergency New Zealand is moving the Waikato Northern and Thames-Coromandel Districts back to an open fire season from 8am, Friday 18 April, until further notice.
    An open fire season means people planning to light fires outdoors no longer need to apply to Fire and Emergency for authorised permits.
    Waikato District Manager Daryl Trim says the summer temperatures have given way to cooler autumn conditions, so the fire risk has lowered.
    “As always, we ask people to take care when considering lighting any fires, and to check the conditions for your location on www.checkitsalright.nz,” he says.
    “This weekend however, with the expected wind from ex Tropical Cyclone Tam, we urge the public to delay the lighting of any fires.
    “Once the windy conditions ease, we urge everyone to always take care with any fire, and check for reignition, which can still happen weeks after a fire has been thought to be extinguished.”
    Department of Conservation lands are still in a restricted season, so permits are needed from Fire and Emergency before lighting any fires in those areas.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Labor’s poll surge continues in YouGov, but they’re barely ahead in Freshwater

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne

    Labor increased their lead again in a YouGov poll, but Freshwater put them ahead by just 50.3–49.7. This article also covers the final WA upper house results for the March 8 election.

    A national YouGov poll, conducted April 11–15 from a sample of 1,506, gave Labor a 53–47 lead, a 0.5-point gain for Labor since the April 4–10 YouGov poll. It’s Labor’s biggest lead in YouGov for 18 months. Primary votes were 33% Labor (up one), 33% Coalition (down 0.5), 7% One Nation (down 1.5), 2% Trumpet of Patriots (up one), 9% independents (steady) and 3% others (steady).

    Using 2022 election preference flows would give Labor about a 54.5–45.5 lead from these primary votes. YouGov is applying preference flows from its previous poll that was conducted from late February to late March.

    However, recent polls that use respondent preferences suggest the gap in the Coalition’s favour between respondent and 2022 preference flows has dropped to nearly zero. This means YouGov’s current preference assumptions may be too pro-Coalition. Analyst Kevin Bonham has more on this.

    In contrast to voting intentions, leaders’ ratings moved to Peter Dutton and against Anthony Albanese. Albanese’s net approval was down four points to -6, with 49% dissatisfied and 43% satisfied. Dutton’s net approval was up five points to -10. Albanese had a 48–38 better PM lead over Dutton (48–37 previously).

    I’ve said before that changes in leaders’ ratings may indicate the next change in voting intentions in a poll, though this doesn’t always follow.

    While YouGov shows Labor’s surge continuing, the Freshwater poll below only gave Labor a 50.3–49.7 lead. However, this was still a gain for Labor from the post-budget Freshwater poll. Freshwater has the Coalition primary vote at 39%, four points higher than in any other poll in the past week.

    Here is the poll graph. I’m using the unrounded two-party numbers for Freshwater’s last two polls, improving Labor from a 51–49 deficit in the post-budget poll to a 50.6–49.4 deficit. There’s a big difference between this week’s Freshwater and all other national polls taken in the past week.

    Freshwater poll has very narrow Labor lead

    A national Freshwater poll for The Financial Review, conducted April 14–16 from a sample of 1,062, had a 50–50 tie by respondent preferences, a one-point gain for Labor since the Freshwater poll conducted after the March 25 budget. Before rounding, Labor led by 50.3–49.7.

    Primary votes were unchanged at 39% Coalition, 32% Labor, 12% Greens and 17% for all Others. By 2022 election flows, this poll would give about a 50–50 tie.

    Albanese’s net approval was up one point to -10, while Dutton’s was steady at -11. Albanese led as preferred PM by 46–41 (46–45 previously).

    The Coalition’s lead over Labor on cost of living has been cut from a high of 14 points last October to two points in this poll. The Coalition held a 17-point lead on economic management last November, which has been reduced to six points. Cost of living remained the most important issue, with 73% citing it as a top issue.

    Resolve poll on tax and housing policies

    To gauge the popularity of Labor and the Coalition’s housing policy announcements at their April 13 campaign launches, a Resolve poll for Nine newspapers was conducted April 14–15 from a sample of 801. This poll didn’t report voting intentions, which were assessed in the April 9–13 Resolve poll.

    By 40–34, voters preferred Labor’s tax policy to the Coalition’s, which were both announced the week of the March 25 budget. By 40–27, they preferred Labor’s housing policy.

    JWS polls of Greens-held Brisbane seats

    The Greens hold three seats in Brisbane: Ryan (by 52.6–47.4 vs the Liberal National Party), Brisbane (by 53.7–46.3) and Griffith (by 60.5–39.5). The Poll Bludger reported Thursday that JWS polls for Australian Energy Producers gave the LNP a 57–43 lead over Labor in Ryan with the Greens a distant third on primary votes.

    In Brisbane, Labor led the LNP by 51–49 with the Greens once again a distant third. In Griffith, Labor led the LNP by 51–49, but the LNP led the Greens by 53–47.

    Seat polls conducted by JWS Research have had very strong results for the Coalition. While the Greens could lose these seats to Labor, I believe the massive swings to the LNP shown here are unrealistic. I expect inner city seats to be good for left-wing parties relative to the national swing.

    Redbridge poll: Labor close to majority

    A national poll by Redbridge and Accent Research, using MRP methodology and reported by the News Corp tabloids, was conducted from February 3 to April 1 from a sample of 9,953. Labor was still polling poorly in February before they started to lift from early March.

    The most likely outcome was 72 of the 150 House of Representatives seats for Labor, four short of a majority, 63 for the Coalition and 15 for all Others. The previous MRP poll by Redbridge and Accent Research in December had the most likely outcome as 71 Coalition seats to 65 for Labor.

    Unemployment rate steady at 4.1%

    The Australian Bureau of Statistics reported Thursday that the unemployment rate was 4.1% in March, unchanged from February, with over 32,000 jobs added. The employment population ratio (the percentage of eligible Australians that are employed) was steady at 64.1% after dropping from a near-record high of 64.4% in January.

    WA upper house final result

    The button was finally pressed on Wednesday to electronically distribute preferences for the upper house for the March 8 Western Australian state election. The upper house used a reformed system with 37 members elected statewide by proportional representation with preferences. A quota was just 1/38 or 2.63%.

    Labor won 16 of the 37 seats (down six on 2021 when they won their first WA upper house majority on a massive landslide), the Liberals won ten seats (up three), the Nationals two (down one), the Greens four (up three), One Nation two (up two), Legalise Cannabis one (down one), Australian Christians one (up one) and Animal Justice one (up one). Overall, left-wing parties won the upper house by 22–15 over right-wing parties.

    Final primary votes gave Labor 15.54 quotas, the Liberals 10.3, the Nationals 2.1, the Greens 4.2, One Nation 1.45, Legalise Cannabis 1.1, Australian Christians 1.0, an independent group 0.51 and Animal Justice 0.46.

    After distribution of preferences, One Nation’s second candidate had 0.83 quotas Labor’s 16th candidate 0.70 quotas, Animal Justice’s top candidate 0.66 quotas and Sophia Moermond, the independent group’s top candidate, 0.63 quotas. Owing to exhaustion, the top three were elected to the last three seats short of a quota.

    Adrian Beaumont 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. Labor’s poll surge continues in YouGov, but they’re barely ahead in Freshwater – https://theconversation.com/labors-poll-surge-continues-in-yougov-but-theyre-barely-ahead-in-freshwater-254708

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: China extends anti-dumping duties on Japanese electrolytic capacitor paper

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China’s Ministry of Commerce announced Thursday that it would extend anti-dumping duties on imported paper for electrolytic capacitors from Japan for another five years, starting Friday.

    This decision follows a sunset review initiated in April 2024 at the request of China’s electrolytic capacitor paper industry.

    If these anti-dumping measures were terminated, the dumping of imported electrolytic capacitor paper from Japan could continue or recur, potentially causing ongoing or renewed harm to China’s domestic industry, the ministry said.

    Under the extended measures, Japanese companies will continue to face an anti-dumping duty of up to 40.83 percent.

    Electrolytic capacitor paper is used as the base material to absorb electrolytes in electrolytic capacitors, playing a crucial role in the functioning of the capacitors. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SEN ELIZABETH WARREN: Social Security is under attack. Gutting it is a broken promise

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    April 15, 2025

    We shouldn’t be cutting Social Security services and threatening Americans’ benefits — we should be making the program stronger

    Gutting Social Security isn’t “efficient” — it’s a broken promise. Democrats and Republicans should stand up and fight back to protect it.

    Social Security is not charity. Americans pay in, paycheck after paycheck, over a lifetime of hard work. When they get older, they get that money back to help them retire. That’s the iron-clad, take-it-to-the-bank promise that America makes to workers.

    But right now, Social Security is under attack like it has never been before. Billionaire Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said seniors won’t complain if they miss a Social Security check. Elon Musk called Social Security the “world’s biggest Ponzi scheme.” Musk then sent his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to gut the agency by indiscriminately firing workers, closing down offices, and trying to cut phone services.

    What does it mean to slash staff and services with no rhyme or reason? Two things: more mistakes in delivering checks to Americans, and fewer workers to fix those mistakes. And when people don’t get their checks, that’s a cut to the benefits they have earned.

    Mistakes are already showing up. After DOGE got its hands on Social Security, Ned, a retiree from Washington state, was marked “dead” in the Social Security system — despite being very much alive. He had $5,000 in benefits snatched right out of his bank account (paid while he was “dead”) and his monthly checks ceased. Ned spent weeks trying to fix the mistake and still hasn’t gotten paid back for two months of missing checks.
    Or take Tom and Chris from Westborough, Massachusetts, whose son has autism. For years, disability benefits through Social Security have helped pay for his care. And for years, those benefits have come through on time, without fail. But when they checked their son’s Social Security account recently, his benefits had been terminated. No explanation — just stopped. The money eventually came through, but it led to panic over how they would pay the bills.

    And while people aren’t getting their checks, there are fewer Social Security workers to help fix problems. Slashing staff and shutting down regional offices means Americans are forced to drive hours to get help with their applications or missing benefits. Once they get to an office, the lines can be out the door. They wait hours before they can get help — if they get help at all.

    Elon Musk and DOGE claim the reason they’re hacking away at people’s Social Security is to cut down on “extreme levels of fraud,” saying tens of millions of dead people over the age of 100 are getting payments. But even current Social Security Acting Administrator Leland Dudek — put in place by Donald Trump in February — contradicts that claim.
    Here’s the thing: if Elon Musk and DOGE truly want to cut waste, fraud, and abuse in the federal government, there are easy ways to do it. I gave them 30 suggestions that would cut $2 trillion in government waste. Gutting the Social Security Administration so that it works worse for our seniors, veterans, and Americans with disabilities is not one of those ways.
    But don’t just take it from me. President George W. Bush’s Social Security Administration Commissioner said that if Elon Musk and DOGE wanted to make changes to increase efficiency at the agency, they could, “but we’re doing it the way that 22-year-old frat boys that have never seen the system think is a good idea, and that’s a mistake.”
    Musk himself said he’ll make mistakes, and it’s clear that coming for Social Security is a giant one. If he’s really honest enough to admit his own mistakes, why doesn’t he reverse course? Instead of recognizing that DOGE’s Social Security takeover is only hurting Americans, he’s doubling down, even encouraging President Trump to make the same false claims. President George W. Bush’s Social Security Commissioner called it “a real disservice to President Trump.” More importantly, it’s a deep disservice to the American people.
    We shouldn’t be cutting Social Security services and threatening Americans’ benefits — we should be making the program stronger. People are struggling with sky-high prices while their retirement savings are evaporating. We need a temporary increase in benefits right now to give people some relief. We should also protect the long-term security of the system by lifting the cap on the amount millionaires and billionaires pay into Social Security, which would also yield enough money to permanently expand benefits.
    Social Security shouldn’t be a partisan issue. It was first created by a nearly unanimous vote by members of Congress from both parties. Even now, as gutting the agency has become a key part of the administration’s agenda, Republicans know that DOGE’s “efficiency” mission isn’t working. They’re seeing reports of long lines at offices, long waits on the phone, and website crashes from their own constituents in places like Arizona, Indiana, and Pennsylvania. So where are they? Why are Democrats the only ones concerned about what happens with Social Security?
    Social Security isn’t something we give away out of the goodness of our hearts. It’s something Americans earned over a lifetime of hard work — an ironclad contract that they can count on. Now, Donald Trump, Musk, and DOGE are trying to skip out on that contract and calling it “efficient.” But it isn’t efficiency — it’s a broken promise to the American people, and Democrats and Republicans alike should stand up and fight back.
    Read the op-ed on Fox News here. 

    By:  Senator Elizabeth Warren
    Source: Fox News

    Previous Article

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Woman missing in Dunedin

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police making inquiries to locate a woman missing in Dunedin are seeking help from the public.

    Heather was last seen at her home in Maori Hill on Thursday around 2:30pm. and there are concerns for her welfare.

    Police believe the 75-year-old may have been in the Ross Creek area yesterday afternoon, and are in particular seeking information from anyone who in and around this area at the time.

    It is unclear what she may have been wearing, but possibly a green knitted cardigan and beige sandshoes.

    Police are appealing to anyone who may have information that could help to call 111 and quote event number P062274708.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Cambodia agree to build all-weather community with shared future in new era

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

    China, Cambodia agree to build all-weather community with shared future in new era

    Chinese President Xi Jinping holds talks with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, April 17, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    PHNOM PENH, April 17 — Chinese President Xi Jinping and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on Thursday agreed to build an all-weather China-Cambodia community with a shared future in the new era, and designated 2025 the China-Cambodia Year of Tourism.

    Xi said the ironclad friendship between China and Cambodia enjoys a profound history, a solid political foundation and a strong internal driving force, adding that no matter how the international situation changes, the two countries have always been at the forefront of building a community with a shared future for mankind.

    Xi noted that at present, changes unseen in a century are accelerating, saying that deepening the building of the China-Cambodia community with a shared future is fully in line with the fundamental interests of the two peoples.

    China will, as always, support Cambodia in following a development path that suits its national conditions, support the Cambodian government’s successful governance of the country, and back Cambodia in playing a more important role in international and regional affairs, he added.

    Xi called on both sides to take the building of an all-weather China-Cambodia community with a shared future in the new era as a new starting point, build on the momentum, continue to implement a new action plan on building the China-Cambodia community with a shared future, strengthen unity and cooperation, and speed up the implementation of the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative.

    He also urged the two sides to deepen political mutual trust at a higher level, expand mutually beneficial cooperation of higher quality, consolidate security guarantees of a higher level, carry out people-to-people and cultural exchanges at a higher frequency, and strengthen strategic coordination of higher standards, so as to bring greater benefits to the two peoples.

    The Chinese president called for maximizing the role of the China-Cambodia Intergovernmental Coordination Committee, ensuring the strategic dialogues between the foreign and defense ministers of the two countries a success, strengthening exchanges through such channels as political parties and legislative bodies, jointly addressing risks and challenges, and safeguarding the common interests of both sides.

    The Chinese side, Xi said, is ready to share opportunities and seek common development with Cambodia.

    He called on both sides to vigorously promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and continuously enrich the “Diamond Hexagon” cooperation framework, so as to inject new impetus into their respective modernization efforts.

    China, Xi said, encourages more Chinese enterprises to invest in Cambodia, adding that it will open its mega-market to Cambodia and import more high-quality agricultural products from the country.

    The people of the two countries should enhance mutual understanding and friendly feelings for each other, and promote exchanges and mutual learning between Chinese and Cambodian civilizations, he added.

    China will continue to offer government scholarships to Cambodia, support the establishment of a dialogue and exchange mechanism for youths between the two countries, and encourage more exchanges at the local level, as well as between media outlets and think tanks, so as to bring the people of the two countries closer and closer, he said.

    He called on the two countries to take stronger and more effective measures to resolutely crack down on online gambling and telecom fraud, and to maintain social stability and the normal order of exchanges among regional countries.

    Xi said China and Cambodia, important forces in the Global South, should stick to the common values of peace, unity and cooperation.

    He called on both sides to oppose unilateral bullying, practice true multilateralism, firmly oppose bloc confrontation, strengthen coordination and cooperation within the frameworks of ASEAN and Lancang-Mekong Cooperation, and jointly safeguard hard-won regional peace and development, so as to contribute to promoting the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.

    For his part, Hun Manet said Cambodia and China have long respected each other and treated each other as equals, hailing China as Cambodia’s most reliable and trustworthy friend.

    He said Xi’s visit is of great significance, which will deepen political mutual trust between the two countries and effectively promote the building of an all-weather Cambodia-China community with a shared future in the new era.

    Hailing China’s achievements in economic and social development, Hun Manet said he firmly believes that under Xi’s strong leadership, China will achieve the Second Centenary Goal as scheduled. He thanked China for its strong support for Cambodia’s economic development and for safeguarding its independence.

    The prime minister said Cambodia firmly adheres to the one-China policy and supports China in safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity, noting that Cambodia is firmly committed to its friendship with China and is willing to maintain high-level exchanges, strengthen strategic and security cooperation, and deepen the ironclad friendship.

    Noting that China is Cambodia’s largest trading partner and the top source of investment, Hun Manet said Cambodia is ready to strengthen cooperation with China in such areas as economy and trade, investment, industrial and supply chains, agriculture and infrastructure, jointly combat online gambling and telecom fraud, strengthen people-to-people exchanges in such fields as education and culture, and ensure the Cambodia-China Year of Tourism a success.

    He said Cambodia highly appreciates China’s active role in international and regional affairs, and supports Xi’s vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind, as well as the three major global initiatives and the Belt and Road cooperation proposed by Xi.

    Amid global turbulence caused by unilateralism and shocks to the multilateral trading system, China has played a leading role and provided valuable stability to the world, Hun Manet said, adding that Cambodia is willing to strengthen coordination and cooperation with China to safeguard their common interests.

    After the meeting, leaders of the two countries witnessed the exchange of more than 30 bilateral cooperation documents covering fields including production and supply chain cooperation, artificial intelligence, development assistance, customs inspection and quarantine, as well as health and news.

    Chinese President Xi Jinping holds talks with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, April 17, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Chinese President Xi Jinping and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet jointly witness the exchange of bilateral cooperation documents after their talks in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, April 17, 2025. Xi held talks with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh on Thursday. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Goldman Joins New York Voting Rights Groups to Condemn Republican Voter Suppression Bill and Demand Senate Reject It

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    SAVE Act Intended to Dismantle Electoral Reforms Across Country and Create Mass Voter Disenfranchisement and Suppression 

     

    Bill Passed by GOP in House Yet to be Brought to Senate Floor  

     

    Watch Recording of the Event Here

    New York, NY – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today joined Let NY Vote Coalition, Common Cause New York, and other voting rights and advocacy organizations to condemn the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, which seeks to disenfranchise and suppress legal, eligible voters nationwide by reversing key election reforms and making it significantly harder for Americans to register and cast their ballots. Passed in the GOP-led House, the legislation has not yet been brought to the floor of the Senate.

    ““The SAVE Act is yet another attempt by Donald Trump and the complicit GOP to erode the foundations of American democracy by undermining its most essential pillar: the right to vote,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “This bill threatens same-day registration, early voting, and automatic voter registration in a deliberate effort to disenfranchise millions of legal American voters, making it as difficult as possible for many to cast their ballots. The SAVE Act doesn’t solve any real issues—it was crafted to intensify the challenges that women, servicemembers, and rural Americans already face at the polls. If passed, it would undo decades of hard-fought voting reform in New York and across the country. Every senator who believes in the sanctity of democracy and the importance of the vote must unequivocally reject this bill.”
     

    Susan Lerner, Executive Director of Common Cause New York, said “Congress should be working to make voting easier, not harder. In New York, the Let NY Vote Coalition has worked closely with the Governor and the Legislature to improve access to the ballot for New York voters. The so-called SAVE Act would reverse the progress New York has made modernizing its elections and making its election administration more voter-centered, potentially preventing countless eligible New York voters across the state from making their voices heard. This destructive bill claims to address a non-existent problem. We urge the Senate to reject this shameless voter suppression bill, and to oppose any future version that makes registering to vote needlessly difficult for everyday people.” 

    Brianna Cea, Executive Director and Founder of Generation Vote, said, “This past month, 220 members of Congress voted to silence a generation. The so-called SAVE Act targets students, trans youth and working-class voters, and threatens to upend how young people participate in our democracy. By requiring eligible young voters to show proof-of-citizenship documents in person, it would block millions of young people from registering to vote—especially those who rely on online, mail, and

    campus voter registration drives. GenVoters across the country have been organizing to

    stop this dangerous anti-voter bill, and we demand the Senate stop it in its tracks.”

    Sean Eldridge, Founder and President of Stand Up America, said, “We know that the SAVE Act would prevent millions of eligible citizens from accessing the ballot box. This isn’t hypothetical or hyperbole. When Kasas enacted a similar bill a decade ago, over 31,000 American citizens were blocked from voting. And despite that, not one Republican in the House of Representatives had the courage to vote no and protect our freedom to vote. Shame on them. In the United States of America, voters should pick their leaders. Politicians should not get to pick their voters.”

    Ann Toback, CEO of Workers Circle, said, “The SAVE Act is a federal voter suppression bill plain and simple. Republican leaders in Congress are trying to undermine tens of millions of Americans’ freedom to vote because they know the vast majority of voters are not behind their regressive agenda. We’ll not rest until this bill is defeated in the Senate.”

    Jan Combopiano, Executive Committee member of Brooklyn Voters Alliance, said, “There literally is no proof that there is widespread noncitizen voting happening in this country, but there is proof that many Americans do not have the documents to confirm their citizenship, so the SAVE Act is a solution without solving a problem. This is

    election integrity theater, rather than the safeguarding of the right to vote.”

    Erica Smitka, Executive Director, League of Women Voters of New York State, said, “The SAVE Act is driven by misinformation and fear rather than facts. There is no credible evidence of widespread non-citizen voter registration or voting in state or federal elections. The League of Women Voters of New York State firmly opposes this bill as it advances to the Senate. We applaud Senator Schumer and Senator Gillibrand for rejecting this harmful legislation and urge them to reject any future iterations that would allow for the requirement of a passport or birth certificate to vote.”

    Karla Bradley, Executive Director, New York Civic Engagement Table, said, “Our democracy cannot work when only a small portion of the population is making decisions that impact the whole. The SAVE Act is a dangerous bill that would disenfranchise New Yorkers, disproportionately impacting BIPOC, transgender, working class, and rural voters – communities who already face systemic barriers to participating in our elections. It is critical that New York stand strong against this anti-voter bill and ensure that the voices and votes of all voters are heard in our elections.”

    John Park, Executive Director, MinKwon Center for Community Action (Convenor of APA VOICE), said, “The SAVE Act is a direct attack on our democracy and on our fundamental right to vote—especially for the Asian American and Pacific Islander community and other communities of color. It imposes costly and unnecessary documentation requirements, like passports or birth certificates. This bill would disenfranchise married women, trans people, active-duty service members, and millions of eligible voters whose lives don’t fit neatly into bureaucratic boxes. Instead of protecting our elections, the SAVE Act silences voices. This bill is voter suppression wrapped in red tape. Our communities deserve access, not exclusion.”

    Jarret Berg, Co-Founder of Vote Early New York, said, “The SAVE act would undermine America’s modern voter registration system, raising unnecessary barriers to online registration and registration-by-mail that are likely to prevent large swaths of eligible citizens from participating in future elections. At the same time, this unjustifiable solution-in-search-of-a-problem would curb most local voter registration drives. The Senate and the American people must reject this assault on democracy.”

    Mae Lee, Executive Director of the Chinese Progressive Association, said, “Community based organizations like ours often conduct voter registration drives in the community. We bring registration to the people where they are. We reach young people who have just turned eighteen or newly minted citizens. Our community members work and/or go to school. They would not be able to go to a board of elections office during when they are working or going to school. The requirements as outlined in the SAVE Act would restrict our community’s access to voter registration, making us unable to vote and have a say in who represents us.”

    Karen Wharton, Democracy Coalition Coordinator, Citizen Action of NY, said, “The SAVE Act is a solution in search of a problem being pushed by MAGA extremists in Congress. It’s not about protecting our democracy—it’s about undermining it. This bill would strip away the rights of eligible voters, especially women, people with disabilities, and communities that have long been marginalized, all while addressing a problem that doesn’t exist. There’s no real evidence of non-citizen voting. What this bill really does is create unnecessary barriers to silence voices. We should be making it easier—not harder—for people to participate in our democracy. We must reject it.”

    Congressman Goldman has made strengthening and improving voting rights, and ballot box access a cornerstone of his time in office. 

    In February, 2023, Congressman Goldman announced the Early Voting Act as his first bill in Congress, which would require at least a 14-day window of in-person early voting for federal elections across the country. The bill would also require that election officials maximize polling place accessibility and would take steps to address unacceptably long wait-times for voters in line to cast their ballots and for election results by mandating that election officials start processing and scanning ballots at least 14 days prior to Election Day
    In March of 2025, Congressman Goldman joined Congresswoman Terri Sewell (AL-07) in introducing the ‘John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act,’ which would restore and modernize the protections of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA) to address modern-day voter suppression and ensure every voter, regardless of race or background, has equal access to the ballot box.   

    Congressman Goldman is a member of the Voter Rights Caucus. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: [Interview] How Samsung Embeds Accessibility and User-Centered Values Into Its Home Appliances

    Source: Samsung

    Guided by its vision of “AI for All,” Samsung Electronics continues to develop home appliances that are intuitive and convenient for a wide range of home environments. Among the most impactful advancements are accessibility features designed to make these appliances easier to use for individuals with disabilities and older adults — reflecting the company’s commitment to inclusive design.
     
    Samsung Newsroom sat down with Bona Lee, Vice President and Head of Customer eXperience (CX) Insight Group at Digital Appliances (DA) Business, Samsung Electronics, to discuss the latest accessibility features in Samsung’s home appliances and the philosophy that shapes them.
     
    ▲ Bona Lee from Samsung Electronics demonstrates the negative color mode on the Family Hub refrigerator’s display.
     
     
    Q. What core value or principle guides your approach when designing accessibility features for home appliances?
     
    Using home appliances typically involves a combination of sensory input — such as sight, sound and touch — along with cognitive functions like making selections and adjusting settings, as well as physical actions like pulling, pushing or lifting. These steps can present challenges for some users.
     
    Samsung is working to reduce or eliminate these usability barriers to ensure that everyone can access all features and benefit from the latest technologies. As part of our broader commitment to inclusive design, we offer tailored solutions for different accessibility needs — such as tactile stickers for buttons, audio cues for users with visual impairments and control panels positioned at heights accessible to wheelchair users.
     
     
    Q. What are some standout accessibility features or services that users might not be aware of?
     
    ▲ Visibility enhancement settings on the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo
     
    The Bespoke AI Laundry Combo offers a significantly more streamlined control experience than before. While previous models required users to turn a dial and strain to read small text to select a cycle, the new model features a built-in digital screen with large, easy-to-read fonts. AI further enhances usability by prioritizing frequently used cycles at the top of the menu.
     
    What’s more, SmartThings routines empower individuals with limited mobility by automating device control. A simple voice command like “I’m going to sleep” can turn off lights and appliances, creating a more comfortable and accessible home environment.
     
     
    Q. What new accessibility features have been introduced in the 2025 Bespoke AI appliance lineup?
     
    In the 2025 lineup of Bespoke AI appliances, Bixby can now recognize individual voices using Voice ID technology and provide accessibility settings tailored to each person. In addition, with built-in microphones and speakers, users can ask Bixby about the appliance’s status and receive key alerts via voice responses.
     
    Moreover, the Auto Open Door feature — highly praised by users with limited mobility — has been expanded to more products, including refrigerators, washing machines, ovens and dishwashers. A light tap or simple voice command like “Open the [device] door” provides easy, hands-free access.
     
    ▲ The Auto Open Door feature on the Family Hub refrigerator
     
     
    Q. Are there any ongoing collaborations focused on enhancing accessibility in home appliances?
     
    Samsung is actively collaborating with various organizations to identify and address real-world accessibility challenges. We receive objective evaluations and expert guidance from various professional organizations including the Korea Center for Accessibility Assessment & Research. Additionally, accessibility features for our screen-equipped appliances — such as voice guidance and improved visibility — are being developed in alignment with the European Accessibility Act that goes into effect this June.
     
    Internal collaboration is just as vital. The Samsung Family Supporters group — comprised of employees with disabilities and those with family members who have disabilities — is actively involved in shaping accessibility initiatives. Furthermore, the newly established Accessibility Employee Resource Group (ERG) within the Device eXperience (DX) Business fosters open dialogue by encouraging members to share real-life experiences and ideas to improve accessibility across our products and services.
     
     
    Q. What results or improvements have come from these collaborations so far?
     
    While many visually impaired users found voice guidance for operating SmartThings-connected appliances helpful, some reported that the initial device connection process was challenging.
     
    To address this, we improved the SmartThings app and partnered with TUAT Corp. — the developer of AI-powered visual assistance app Sullivan Plus — to introduce a dedicated mode that recognizes Samsung appliances and helps users easily connect them to SmartThings. Selected for Samsung’s C-Lab Outside startup incubator, Sullivan Plus is expected to further enhance the overall user experience.
     
    We’ve also developed assistive tools based on ideas and feedback from employees and the Samsung Family Supporters group. Designs for these tools are shared on ITDA, a public platform for customizing and 3D-printing assistive devices. One example is a stick-on handle for drawers, designed to support users with limited hand mobility. Development continues toward creating more automated assistive solutions that offer even greater convenience.
     
     
    Q. What steps is Samsung taking to further advance its vision of “AI for All” in the future?
     
    “AI for All” reflects Samsung’s commitment to ensuring that the benefits of technology are seamlessly integrated into everyday life — regardless of a user’s physical abilities or environment. It’s about transforming individual features into connected, inclusive experiences that make life better for everyone.
     
    Looking ahead, Samsung will continue to embed universal design principles that prioritize inclusivity into product development. This includes gathering input from diverse user groups during the planning stage, leveraging user data to identify new opportunities and collaborating with both internal and external experts and organizations to create more meaningful solutions.
     
    As AI capabilities in home appliances evolve, the goal is to create a truly intelligent in-home experience — one that understands each user, their family and their environment by automating tasks and reducing the need for manual input. Rather than addressing diversity with isolated features, Samsung strives to deliver integrated, all-in-one solutions that adapt to any situation.
     
    We see this as the future of innovation — where accessibility and technology come together to serve everyone, under the vision of “Universal Accessibility, Universal Technology.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi says unilateralism, hegemonism receive no support of the people

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

    Building China-Cambodia community with shared future a choice of history, the people: Xi

    Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Cambodian People’s Party President and Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, April 17, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    PHNOM PENH, April 17 — Chinese President Xi Jinping said here Thursday that building a China-Cambodia community with a shared future is a choice of history and the people.

    Xi made the remarks when meeting with Cambodian People’s Party President and Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen.

    China and Cambodia are not only friendly neighbors but also ironclad friends, he said, noting that both countries are currently at a critical stage of national development.

    Xi said that the two sides should keep in mind the well-being of their people and the progress of humanity, strive to set an example for building a community with a shared future for mankind in the course of advancing their respective modernization endeavors, and join hands to become forces for peace, stability and progress in a world undergoing profound transformations unseen in a century.

    China believes that Cambodia’s road to national development and revitalization will become wider and wider, and will, as always, support the Cambodian People’s Party in leading the Cambodian people to maintain national stability and economic development, Xi said, adding that China supports Cambodia in playing a more important role in the regional and international arena.

    The Chinese president said that the two sides should make good use of the newly established “2+2” strategic dialogue mechanism between foreign ministers and defense ministers of the two countries to strengthen strategic coordination.

    The two sides should deepen practical cooperation across various fields, advance the construction of Cambodia’s Industrial and Technological Corridor and Fish and Rice Corridor, and strengthen collaboration in energy, transportation and other key sectors, enabling Cambodia to share more in China’s development opportunities, Xi said.

    Xi emphasized that China is willing to engage in exchanges and mutual learning with Cambodia on major issues such as strengthening party building and advancing reform and development, and to deepen friendly cooperation between China’s National People’s Congress and the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference with National Assembly and Senate of the Kingdom of Cambodia.

    Unilateralism and hegemonism receive no support of the people, Xi said.

    History has shown the unstoppable trend toward a multipolar world, economic globalization, and cultural diversity, Xi said, adding that no country wants to return to isolation.

    The trade wars undermine the multilateral trading system and disrupt global economic order, Xi said, urging all countries to unite and firmly keep the reins of national security and development in their own hands, uphold mutual respect, pursue win-win cooperation and common development, and work together to build a community with a shared future for mankind.

    As Asia embarks on a new journey of collective revitalization, Xi noted, China will continue to follow the principle of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness and the policy of developing friendship and partnership with neighboring countries, maintain the continuity and stability of its neighborhood diplomacy, deepen friendly cooperation with neighboring countries, so as to share the fruits of Chinese modernization more widely across the region, promote the building of a community with a shared future with neighboring countries, and work together to advance Asia’s modernization.

    For his part, Hun Sen said this visit is of great significance to Cambodia.

    Noting that China is Cambodia’s most steadfast supporter and most reliable partner, Hun Sen said China’s support has made significant contributions to Cambodia’s economic and social development and improvement of people’s lives, for which the Cambodian side expresses its deep gratitude.

    Cambodia firmly adheres to the one-China policy, supports China’s positions on issues related to Taiwan, Xinjiang and Xizang, and opposes any forces’ interference in China’s internal affairs, he said.

    China and Cambodia are ironclad friends, and the two countries’ decision to build a China-Cambodia community with a shared future in the new era will make further progress, promoting high-level, high-quality and high-standard development of bilateral relations, Hun Sen said.

    The two countries will always move forward hand in hand, stand together through thick and thin and share a common destiny, he added.

    Hun Sen said that Cambodia is willing to strengthen strategic security cooperation with China and expand bilateral trade.

    Cambodia welcomes more Chinese enterprises to invest in the country, and will join hands with China to promote the deepening of people-to-people and cultural exchanges, and intensify the crackdown on online gambling and telecom fraud, he added.

    The Cambodian side highly appreciates China’s constructive role in promoting world peace and sustainable development, and supports the Belt and Road cooperation and the three major global initiatives proposed by China, which are conducive to safeguarding the common interests of the international community and promoting world peace, security and stability, Hun Sen said.

    Trade wars and tariff wars have undermined the legitimate interests of all countries and triggered turmoil in the international situation, Hun Sen said, adding that Cambodia is willing to strengthen cooperation with China and jointly address various risks and challenges.

    Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Cambodian People’s Party President and Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, April 17, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi says China, Cambodia set a model for equality, mutual trust, win-win cooperation between countries of different sizes

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

    Xi says China, Cambodia set model for equality, mutual trust, win-win cooperation between countries of different sizes

    Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni at the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, April 17, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    PHNOM PENH, April 17 — Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Thursday that China and Cambodia set a model for equality, mutual trust and win-win cooperation between countries of different sizes.

    Xi made the remarks when meeting with Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni during his state visit to Cambodia.

    Noting that Cambodia has recently celebrated the 20th anniversary of King Sihamoni’s enthronement and the Khmer New Year, Xi said he is delighted to visit the beautiful country of Cambodia at the invitation of the king, extending his heartfelt New Year greetings to the Cambodian people.

    Xi said that Cambodia’s nation-building is thriving, and he firmly believes that, under the blessings of King Sihamoni, the hardworking and intelligent Cambodian people will surely build an even more prosperous and stronger nation.

    Xi pointed out that China and Cambodia share a millennia-old friendship, with their people having always striven together and thrived together. Regardless of changes in the international landscape, China and Cambodia have stood by each other in good faith and with mutual assistance, offering unwavering support on issues concerning each other’s core interests and major concerns.

    China and Cambodia have always been at the forefront of building a community with a shared future for mankind, bringing tangible benefits to the Cambodian people, said Xi.

    He said that China values its friendship with the Cambodian royal family, and spoke highly of the important contributions made by the Cambodian royal family to the cause of China-Cambodia friendship over the years.

    Under the new circumstances, China and Cambodia should cherish and carry forward the ironclad friendship jointly forged by the elder generation of Chinese leaders and King Father Norodom Sihanouk, endow the China-Cambodia community with a shared future with new connotations of the time, serve the development of their respective countries and the well-being of their people, and make greater contributions to building a community with a shared future with neighboring countries and promoting the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, said Xi.

    He noted that China firmly supports Cambodia in maintaining stability, accelerating development, improving people’s livelihoods and following a development path that suits its national conditions.

    Xi said that he believes Chinese modernization will bring more opportunities to Cambodia and other neighboring countries and expressed confidence in writing a splendid chapter of building an all-weather China-Cambodia community with a shared future in the new era.

    For his part, King Sihamoni said the friendship between Cambodia and China was created and cultivated by the elder generation of leaders of the two countries, adding that with the joint efforts of both sides, cooperation in various fields has become increasingly close and the building of a community with a shared future has been continuously deepened.

    The Cambodian side, he said, firmly adheres to the one-China principle, highly appreciates the three major global initiatives proposed by Xi, and appreciates the huge development opportunities brought to Cambodia via the Belt and Road cooperation.

    He hailed Xi’s visit a historic one, which will deepen the ironclad friendship between the two countries, enrich the cooperation framework of the “Diamond Hexagon,” and take bilateral ties to a new level.

    The king also said his country is ready to enhance coordination and cooperation with China in such multilateral mechanisms as ASEAN-China Cooperation and Lancang-Mekong Cooperation, and jointly promote regional peace, stability and prosperity.

    The king also presented the National Order of Independence – Grand Collar to Xi.

    He said Xi holds special friendly feelings towards Cambodia and has made outstanding contributions to promoting the development of Cambodia-China relations, adding that Xi is a great friend of Cambodia.

    It is believed that under the leadership of President Xi, China will achieve greater development accomplishments and play a more important role in international and regional affairs, he added.

    Xi said that this medal fully demonstrates Cambodia’s high regard for developing China-Cambodia relations and carries the deep friendship of the Cambodian people towards the Chinese people.

    This honor, he said, belongs not only to him personally, but also to all the friendly people who have cultivated and contributed to the friendship between China and Cambodia.

    Chinese President Xi Jinping and Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni walk at the Royal Palace after their meeting in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, April 17, 2025. Xi met with Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni at the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh on Thursday. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni at the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, April 17, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni presents the National Order of Independence – Grand Collar to Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, April 17, 2025. Xi met with Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni at the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh on Thursday. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi meets Cambodian Queen Mother

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

    Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Cambodia’s Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk at the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, April 17, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    PHNOM PENH, April 17 — Chinese President Xi Jinping said Thursday that Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk is a witness and promoter of the China-Cambodia friendship.

    In his meeting with the Queen Mother at the Royal Palace, Xi said she has special friendly feelings towards the Chinese people, and she is well-deserved to be awarded the Friendship Medal of the People’s Republic of China.

    Xi also said that China is her second home, adding that she is welcome to come to China at any time.

    Cambodia’s King Father Norodom Sihanouk was a banner of the China-Cambodia friendship, said Xi, adding that together with the elder generation of Chinese leaders, he personally forged an unbreakable ironclad friendship between China and Cambodia.

    “We will always remember the historic contributions he made,” Xi added.

    For her part, the Queen Mother said Xi is the greatest friend of Cambodia, and it is a great pleasure to see that the China-Cambodia friendship forged by the elder generation of leaders of the two countries has been continuously consolidated and developed.

    The Queen Mother said she believes that the ironclad friendship between the two countries will grow even deeper and more unbreakable.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bigstack Opportunities I Inc. Announces Receipt of TSXV Conditional Approval and Filing of Filing Statement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    TORONTO, April 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bigstack Opportunities I Inc. (“Bigstack”) (TSXV: STAK.P), a capital pool company as defined under the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (the “TSXV” or the “Exchange”), is pleased to announce that the TSXV has conditionally approved the previously announced business combination with Reeflex Coil Solutions Inc. (“Reeflex”), as described in Bigstack’s press releases dated November 4, 2024, January 17, 2025 and April 16, 2025 (the “Transaction”), which will constitute Bigstack’s Qualifying Transaction (as such term is defined in Policy 2.4 – Capital Pool Companies of the Corporate Finance Manual of the Exchange).

    In connection with the Transaction, Bigstack has filed its filing statement dated April 14, 2025 (the “Filing Statement”) on its SEDAR+ profile. Investors are encouraged to review the Filing Statement on Bigstack’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca, as well as Bigstack’s press releases dated November 4, 2024, January 17, 2025 and April 16, 2025. The Filing Statement provides detailed information about, among other things, the Transaction, Reeflex, Coil Solutions Inc. (“Coil”), Reeflex’s expected acquisition of Coil pursuant to a share purchase agreement dated April 14, 2025 (the “Share Purchase Agreement”) between Reeflex and all of the shareholders of Coil (the “Coil Acquisition”), and the resulting company following completion of the Transaction (the “Resulting Issuer”).

    Assuming all conditions are satisfied, Bigstack and Reeflex anticipate closing of the Transaction to occur on or around May 1, 2025, or such other date as may be agreed to between the parties, and that trading of the Resulting Issuer’s common shares will commence shortly thereafter. Bigstack will issue a further press release once the Exchange issues its bulletin announcing its final approval of the Transaction and the date that trading of the common shares of the Resulting Issuer is expected to commence on the Exchange. The Resulting Issuer’s trading symbol will be “RFX”.

    In connection with the Transaction, Bigstack is expected to change its name to “Reeflex Solutions Inc.”

    Completion of the Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, the satisfaction of all conditions provided for in the agreements governing the Transaction, which include representations, warranties, covenants and conditions customary for a transaction of this nature, the receipt of all necessary regulatory, corporate and third party approvals, including final TSXV acceptance, the release of the escrowed proceeds to Reeflex pursuant to the concurrent financing of the Reeflex, as described in Bigstack’s press release dated April 16, 2025, the closing of the Coil Acquisition, and the receipt of approval for the listing of the common shares of the Resulting Issuer by the Exchange, all subject to the completion of the Transaction. There can, however, be no assurance that the Transaction will be completed as proposed or at all. Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the management information circular or filing statement to be prepared in connection with the Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of a capital pool company should be considered highly speculative. Shares of Bigstack are currently halted from trading on the Exchange, and trading is not expected to resume until after closing of the Transaction. The TSXV has in no way passed upon the merits of the proposed transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

    Business and History of Reeflex

    Reeflex is a privately-held corporation incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (Alberta) on June 14, 2024. Its head and registered offices are located in Calgary. Reeflex currently has no business operations or assets other than cash and a management team that has been working on the Transaction and the proposed going public structure for the past year. On April 14, 2025, Reeflex entered into the Share Purchase Agreement.

    Business and History of Coil

    Founded in 2007 in Redcliff, Alberta, Coil specializes in innovative drilling products and services for the global oil and gas industry. In 2010, Coil expanded its operations, opening a second facility in Calgary, Alberta, introducing a line of downhole fracking tools and venturing into custom tool design. In 2012, Coil launched its coil tubing injector line. In 2013, Coil opened a third facility in Red Deer, Alberta. In 2014, Coil developed two distinct models of, and manufactured, its first full coil tubing units. In 2016, Coil expanded sales to Asia, Africa, Australia, North America, South America and Europe. In 2017, Coil designed and built the largest free-standing mast unit in the world. In 2022, Coil established a dedicated manufacturing division in Calgary, Alberta, operating under its tradename, Ranglar, for injectors and mobile equipment. In 2024, Coil completed a reorganization with its shareholders, which resulted in the conversion of preferred shares and debt into common shares. Today, Coil continues to focus on coiled tubing solutions and downhole tools, offering a comprehensive range of services including rentals, sales, training, testing and consulting. With 41 employees, Coil has developed patented products that are distributed worldwide, including a key distributor in Germany and more than 60 active clients. On April 14, 2025, Coil entered into the Share Purchase Agreement.

    Overview of Bigstack

    Bigstack is a “capital pool company” under the policies of the Exchange and it is intended that the Transaction will constitute the “Qualifying Transaction” of Bigstack, as such term is defined in CPC Policy. The Bigstack Shares are currently listed on the Exchange and Bigstack is a reporting issuer in the provinces of Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario. Bigstack was incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) on November 25, 2020.

    Additional Information

    All information contained in this press release with respect to Reeflex and Coil was provided by Reeflex and Coil, respectively, to Bigstack for inclusion herein. Bigstack and its directors and officers have not independently verified such information and have relied exclusively on Reeflex and Coil for any information concerning Reeflex and Coil.

    Forward Looking Information

    This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking information” (“forward-looking information”) within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking information and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this press release. Any statement that discusses predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend” or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information.

    More particularly and without limitation, this press release contains forward-looking statements concerning the Transaction and its constituents steps, including the Coil Acquisition and the Transaction (including the completion, structure, terms and timing thereof), the expected corporate structure of the Resulting Issuer and its subsidiaries, if any, the future financial performance of the Resulting Issuer or any of the parties, the concurrent financing of Reeflex and the potential release of escrowed proceeds therefrom, and the trading of Bigstack’s securities and any securities of the Resulting Issuer on the TSXV. Although Bigstack believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, it can give no assurance that the expectations of any forward-looking information will prove to be correct. Known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, but are not limited to: delay or failure to receive regulatory approvals; inability to complete the Concurrent Financing on the terms described herein or at all; and general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties. There can be no certainty that the Transaction and related transactions will be completed on the terms set out in the agreements among the parties and described in press releases of Bigstack or at all. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking information contained in this press release. Except as required by law, Bigstack disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward-looking information or otherwise.

    Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the Filing Statement, any information released or received with respect to the Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of a capital pool company should be considered highly speculative.

    The TSX Venture Exchange Inc. has in no way passed upon the merits of the proposed Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

    Bigstack Opportunities I Inc.

    For further information, please contact Eric Szustak, the President, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Corporate Secretary and a director of Bigstack.

    Eric Szustak
    President, CEO, CFO, Corporate Secretary and Director
    Email: eszustak@jbrlimited.com
    Telephone: (905) 330-7948

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirement. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Volcano Watch — How to build a beach: Pohoiki growth over the years

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Volcano Watch is a weekly article and activity update written by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists and affiliates. Today’s article was written by University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo staff Meghann Decker and Lis Gallant, along with students Susan Richfield and Lichen Forster. 

    Satellite image showing changes in the Pohoiki area on the Island of Hawaiʻi. The pre-2018 coastline is shown in white, extent of the first and second phase of growth in blue (about 1 year after the end of the 2018 eruption), and the current active phase as seen in the satellite image from March 2024. Satellite image from GoogleEarth. A cross-section schematic of the beach in Second Bay, as seen in ground penetrating radar data. The orange arrow in each of the images and the cross-section represents a length of approximately 500 ft (152 meters). 

    Pohoiki, which means ‘little depression,’ has been an important ocean access point for people in the District of Puna. Before 2018, this area was a rocky coastline of Kīlauea lava flows emplaced 750–1,500 years ago. The boat ramp was constructed in 1963 and the breakwater in 1979, both by the United States Army Corps of Engineers. 

    The beach at Pohoiki grew rapidly in the year following the 2018 lower East Rift Zone eruption of Kīlauea and it has continued to evolve since then. The boat ramp was cut off from the ocean, and local warm springs formed in several low-lying areas. 

    The material that makes the beach at Pohoiki has a distinct black color and bumpy texture. It originally formed as molten lava poured into the ocean cooled and shattered into sand- to block-sized fragments. These fragments were then ground down even further by wave action and redistributed by the longshore current.

    A longshore current flows parallel to the shore within the zone of breaking waves. They develop when waves approach a beach at an angle and can push sediments along the coastline. The typical longshore current on the east side of the Island of Hawai‘i transports material from the 2018 lava flows north of the beach and deposits it at Pohoiki. The first area of sediment accumulation in 2018 was around the boat ramp and breakwater. 

    The beach profile at Pohoiki has also experienced changes due to seasonal ocean swells. Overall, this has resulted in a bigger beach spanning further south into areas known as Second Bay and Third Bay. However, during the summer months, south swells disrupt the longshore current and move material from Third Bay to Second Bay. This results in steepening of the main beach face at Second Bay. 

    This seasonal reworking of sediment forms internal dune structures at Second Bay. Dune structures are landforms composed of wind- or water-driven particles that typically take the form of mounds, ridges, or hills. They can be found in coastal areas, deserts, and anywhere with large amounts of loose sediment and strong winds. Specifically, coastal dune structures form when wind and waves transport material from the beach inland, causing it to accumulate. Students from the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo recently conducted a Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey of the beach in Second Bay to study these internal features. 

    GPR is a technique that uses small radar pulses to detect objects and changes beneath the ground. When these pulses are transmitted into the ground, they encounter obstacles and reflect back towards the surface, where they are captured by a receiving antenna. GPR uses low-frequency radio waves no more powerful or harmful than those picked up by household radios. 

    The GPR survey showed that much of the beach growth was the result of migrating dunes. The first phase was dominated by primary dune structures built from the finer grained material created when the 2018 lava flows entered the ocean. This process of beach growth—called progradation—rapidly resulted in the filling in of Second bay and the accumulation of a beach face. Progradation is the process of a shoreline, delta, or fan growing towards the ocean over time. 

    The second phase of beach growth is characterized by continued progradation and sediment accumulation. The dune structures from this phase display cross-bedding. Cross-beds are formed as dunes migrate from erosion and redeposition of sediment. The first phase dunes also have cross beds, but at a higher angle; this tells us that the growth of the beach during the first phase was faster and more energetic than growth during the second phase. 

    The currently active phase of growth at the beach is characterized by stabilization of low-angle dune formation above sea-level that is affected by tide changes. 

    This GPR data represents what the beach looks like at one moment in time. With dredging to restore access to Pohoiki boat ramp planned for later this year, the shape and structure of the beach will continue to evolve.

    Volcano Activity Updates

    Kīlauea has been erupting episodically within the summit caldera since December 23, 2024. Its USGS Volcano Alert level is WATCH.

    The summit eruption at Kīlauea volcano that began in Halemaʻumaʻu crater on December 23 continued over the past week. Episode 18 began the evening of April 16, when lava overflowed from the north vent; the continuous lava fountaining phase of episode 18 is most likely to start between today and this weekend. Since the end of episode 17, the summit region has showed inflation suggesting another episode is possible. Sulfur dioxide emission rates are elevated in the summit region during active eruption episodes. No unusual activity has been noted along Kīlauea’s East Rift Zone or Southwest Rift Zone. 

    Mauna Loa is not erupting. Its USGS Volcano Alert Level is at NORMAL.

    One earthquake was reported felt in the Hawaiian Islands during the past week: a M3.3 earthquake 9 km (5 mi) NE of Pāhala at 33 km (20 mi) depth on April 12 at 7:13 a.m. HST.

    HVO continues to closely monitor Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.

    Please visit HVO’s website for past Volcano Watch articles, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates, volcano photos, maps, recent earthquake information, and more. Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Kiwis caught flat-footed by Easter booze rules challenged to speak up

    Source: ACT Party

    Kiwis caught flat-footed this weekend by patronising rules around alcohol should make a submission on legislation currently being considered by Parliament’s Justice Committee, says ACT MP Cameron Luxton.

    “This Friday and Sunday, pubgoers will have to order a ‘substantial meal’ just to have a wine or beer. There’s also an arbitrary ban on buying a drink more than an hour before or after eating.

    “Then there’s the total ban on off-licence alcohol sales. Even grocery stores that are allowed to open on Easter can’t sell alcohol, forcing people to stock up for supplies on the Thursday and Saturday.

    “So many Kiwis are fed up with being treated like children, and I know hospitality staff hate having to enforce the silly rules. I’ve been campaigning for Easter freedom for a while now, and finally, a bill to ditch the alcohol rules has passed first reading – but its future is uncertain.

    “If you’re sick of being denied choice on Easter, I’d strongly urge you to make an online submission in support of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Sales on Anzac Day Morning, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Christmas Day) Amendment Bill.

    “I’ll be making a submission myself, and I’ll be lobbying my colleagues across Parliament to support the legislation into law.

    “The government shouldn’t get to choose your values. Whether Easter means going to church or having a pint, that should be up to you.”

    Editor’s note: Cameron Luxton previously had a member’s bill drawn from Parliament’s ballot to reform both alcohol restrictions and wider shop trading restrictions. Luxton’s bill was voted down, so he and ACT are now leading the campaign in support of Kieran McAnulty’s narrower bill.

    A video of Cameron Luxton’s speech on the Bill is available here.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Unleashing American Commercial Fishing in the Pacific

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    class=”has-text-align-center”>BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
    A PROCLAMATION
    The Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument (PRIMNM) was established by Proclamation 8336 of January 6, 2009 (Establishment of the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument), and then further expanded by Proclamation 9173 of September 25, 2014 (Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument Expansion).  Under these monument proclamations, over 400,000 square miles in the Pacific Ocean were appropriated and withdrawn from all forms of entry, location, selection, sale, leasing, or other disposition under the public land laws for care and management by the Federal Government.The PRIMNM was established to protect and preserve the lands and marine environment around Wake, Baker, Howland, and Jarvis Islands; Johnston and Palmyra Atolls; Kingman Reef; and the historic and scientific objects therein.  These objects include fish, birds, marine mammals, coral, and the general biodiversity of the ecosystems encompassed by the PRIMNM.As part of the management of the PRIMNM, commercial fishing is currently prohibited within its boundaries.  As explained herein, following further consideration of the nature of the objects identified in Proclamations 8336 and 9173 and the protection of those objects already provided by relevant law, I find that appropriately managed commercial fishing would not put the objects of scientific and historic interest that the PRIMNM protects at risk.With respect to fish in particular, fisheries in the region are effectively managed by the National Marine Fisheries Service and the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council.  Management of the PRIMNM is doing little to guard fish populations against overfishing as tunas and other pelagic species found within the boundaries of the PRIMNM are migratory in nature, and do not permanently reside within the PRIMNM.As a result of the prohibitions on commercial fishing, American fishing fleets have lost access to nearly half of the United States’ Exclusive Economic Zone in the Pacific Islands.  This has driven American fishermen to fish further offshore in international waters to compete against poorly regulated and highly subsidized foreign fleets.  This disadvantages honest United States commercial fishermen and is detrimental for United States territories like American Samoa, whose private sector economy is over 80 percent dependent on the fishing industry.Proclamations 8336 and 9173 do not list recreational fishing as a threat to local fish populations within the PRIMNM.  A host of Federal protections exist under current laws and agency management designations to protect the area’s natural resources, vulnerable marine species, and unique habitats, such as coral and seamount ecosystems.These laws include the Magnuson–Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.), the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (Endangered Species Act) (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703-712), the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966 (16 U.S.C. 668dd-668ee), the Refuge Recreation Act (16 U.S.C. 460k et seq.), the Marine Mammal Protection Act (16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.), the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.), the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (Oil Pollution Act) (33 U.S.C. 2701et seq.), and Title I of the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act (Ocean Dumping Act), 33 U.S.C. 1401 et seq.  For example, the Endangered Species Act generally prohibits the taking of listed fish and wildlife species, and also generally ensures that Federal actions, including fisheries management, are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any such species nor adversely modify designated critical habitats.  Numerous other statutes, including the Clean Water Act, the Oil Pollution Act, and the Ocean Dumping Act, address both land-based and ocean-based sources of pollution and help ensure that water quality conditions support the conservation values of the Pacific Remote Island ecosystems.Therefore, I find that appropriately managed commercial fishing would not put objects of scientific and historic interest within the PRIMNM at risk.After further consideration of the nature of the objects identified in Proclamations 8336 and 9173 and the protection of those objects already provided by the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act and other relevant laws, I find that a prohibition on commercial fishing is not, at this time, necessary for the proper care and management of the PRIMNM or the objects of historic or scientific interest therein.NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, including section 320301 of title 54, United States Code (Antiquities Act), hereby proclaim that:(a)  All language under the section entitled “Management of the Marine National Monument” in Proclamation 9173 is deleted and replaced with the following:“Nothing in this proclamation shall change the management of the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument as specified in Proclamation 8336.  The Secretary of the Interior, in consultation with the Secretary of Commerce, shall have primary responsibility for management of the Monument Expansion pursuant to applicable legal authorities.  The Secretary of Commerce, through the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and in consultation with the Secretary of the Interior, shall within the Monument Expansion have primary responsibility with respect to fishery-related activities regulated pursuant to the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.), and any other applicable legal authorities.  The Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of the Interior shall not allow or permit any appropriation, injury, destruction, or removal of any object of the Monument Expansion except as provided for by this proclamation as modified by the Proclamation of April 17, 2025 (Unleashing American Commercial Fishing in the Pacific).Between 50 to 200 nautical miles from the landward boundaries of the Monument, the Secretary of Commerce shall not prohibit commercial fishing within the boundaries of the Monument and the Monument Expansion in those areas where the Monument and Monument Expansion is coterminous with the Exclusive Economic Zone of the United States.  The implementation of any regulation of commercial fishing within the Monument and the Monument Expansion shall be done in coordination with the Secretary of Defense.  Only United States flagged vessels shall be allowed to commercially fish within the boundaries of the Monument and the Monument Expansion, except that permits may be issued to foreign flagged vessels to transship fish harvested by United States fishermen.The Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of the Interior shall take appropriate action pursuant to their respective authorities under the Antiquities Act; the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act; and such other authorities as may be available to implement this proclamation, to regulate fisheries, and to ensure proper care and management of the Monument Expansion.The United States shall continue to preserve the freedom of the seas (i.e., all of the rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea recognized in international law and enjoyed by all nations, including the conduct of military activities, exercises, and surveys in or over the Exclusive Economic Zone of the United States), and to protect the training, readiness, and global mobility of the United States Armed Forces as United States national interests that are essential to the peace and prosperity of civilized nations.The Secretary of Defense shall continue to manage Wake Island and Johnston Atoll as specified in Proclamation 8336.”.(b)  The Secretary of Commerce, through the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, shall expeditiously publish new proposed rules in the Federal Register to amend or repeal all burdensome regulations that restrict commercial fishing in the PRIMNM.Nothing in this proclamation shall be construed to revoke, modify, or affect any withdrawal, reservation, or appropriation, other than the one created by Proclamations 8336 and 9173.Nothing in this proclamation shall change the management of the areas designated and reserved by Proclamations 8336 and 9173, except as explicitly provided in this proclamation.If any provision of this proclamation, including its application to a particular parcel of land, is held to be invalid, the remainder of this proclamation and its application to other parcels of land shall not be affected thereby.IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand thisseventeenth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
                                  DONALD J. TRUMP

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Nine facing federal immigration-related offenses in southern Illinois

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – A federal grand jury has charged nine illegal aliens with immigration-related offenses in Effingham, Madison, Monroe and St. Clair counties over the last two months.

    “Every time an illegal immigrant unlawfully enters the United States, they commit a federal crime. But eight of these individuals are repeat offenders—often deported after earlier crimes, only to reenter and face new charges,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. “The only person who wasn’t a prior offender was indicted for a firearms offense. These charges show our commitment to prioritizing repeat offenders and those who threaten public safety.”

    Josue Lopez-Serrano, 35, a Mexican national, was charged with one count of illegal reentry after deportation in Monroe County.

    Angel Carmona-Perez, 44, a Mexican national, is facing one count of illegal reentry after deportation in Madison County.

    Gaspar Lux-Lopez, 30, a Guatemalan national, was charged with one count of illegal reentry after deportation in Madison County.

    Luis Morocho-Minga, 42, an Ecuadorian national, is facing one count of illegal alien in possession of a firearm in St. Clair County.

    Pedro Ramos-Garcia, 36, a Guatemalan national, was charged with one count of illegal reentry after deportation in Effingham County.

    Andres Jimenez-Santiago, 26, a Mexican national, is facing one count of illegal reentry after deportation in St. Clair County.

    Jose Ariza-Angula, 37, a Mexican national, is facing one count of illegal reentry after deportation in St. Clair County.

    Erick Roman-Roman, 49, a Mexican national, was charged with one count of illegal reentry after deportation in St. Clair County.

    Mayorie Fernandez-Ormeno, 44, a Chilean national, is facing one count of conspiracy to commit access device fraud, access device fraud, attempted access device fraud and illegal entry after deportation in Madison County and two counts of aggravated identity theft.

    An indictment is merely a formal charge against a defendant. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge until proved guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury.

    In February, a southern Illinois jury convicted an illegal alien from India for participating in an imposter scam and working to exploit more than $400,000 from elderly victims across the Midwest. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for May 29 at the federal courthouse in East St. Louis. 

    U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is leading the investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dan Kapsak, Madalyn Campbell and Kathleen Howard are prosecuting the cases.

    The cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: WISeKey Releases 2024 Audited Financial Results and Outlines its 2025 Vision for Post Quantum Technology Convergence

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WISeKey Releases 2024 Audited Financial Results and Outlines its 2025 Vision for Post Quantum Technology Convergence

    Schedules Conference Call and Webcast for Tuesday, April 22 at 10:00 am ET (4:00 pm CET)

    Geneva, Switzerland – April 17, 2025 – Ad-Hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 of SIX Listing Rules – WISeKey International Holding Ltd (NASDAQ: WKEY / SIX: WIHN) (“WISeKey” or “the Company”), a global leader in cybersecurity, digital identity, and IoT technologies, today announced its audited financial results for the year ended December 31, 2024, and shared its strategic vision for 2025, a year expected to be defined by the convergence of foundational technologies and the emergence of Sovereign AI.

    Carlos Moreira, Founder and CEO of WISeKey, commented: “2024 has been a pivotal year for WISeKey. We ended the year with a very strong balance sheet, strategic technological milestones, and a clear roadmap to take advantage of new opportunities ahead. From launching 17 secure satellites in partnership with SpaceX and further advancing negotiations on our semiconductor personalization center strategy, to scaling our blockchain platforms and developing post-quantum chips, we have created a solid foundation across every layer of digital trust infrastructure.

    We started 2025 on a very strong note and have now entered what I define as the ‘Year of WISeKey Convergence.’ This is more than a strategy, it is a paradigm shift. We are bringing together four foundational pillars: semiconductors, satellites, blockchain, and digital identity, into unified and interoperable ecosystems. This convergence allows us to offer end-to-end solutions where each component reinforces the other, enabling exponential innovation and resilience.

    For instance, our post-quantum secure chips, developed by our semiconductor subsidiary SEALSQ Corp (Nasdaq: LAES), are now being embedded into WISeSat satellites to create a secure foundation for a decentralized IoT infrastructure. Blockchain and identity platforms like SEALCOIN and WISeID are being deployed to power autonomous, tamper-proof transactions between machines, satellites, and users. Combining this with our partnership with the Hedera distributed ledger, brings transparency and immutability to these transactions. Additionally, our work with the Swiss Army is proceeding with the testing of a secure smartphone and secure communications with our WISeSat Satellites.

    This convergence approach positions WISeKey at the intersection of some of the most critical transformations of our time, such as quantum-resilient security, space-based connectivity, and the decentralized economy. We are not just adapting to the digital future, we are building it. For WISeKey, 2025 is expected to be a year of execution and scale, where our integrated business units aim to deliver tangible impact.”

    FY 2024 HIGHLIGHTS

    • $90.6 million cash balance (as of December 31, 2024) alongside a much cleaner balance sheet.
    • $11.9 million FY 2024 revenue, down from $30.1 million in FY 2023, reflects an expected decrease as a result of a transitional year with semiconductors customers gradually shifting to our next-generation quantum-resistant solutions and delayed building inventory until the release alongside the impact of the excess inventory accumulation by customers in 2023.
    • $7.0 million investments in R&D for the development of new projects and technologies, including SEALSQ’s post-quantum chip, SEALCOIN, and our WISeSat next generation satellites.
    • First engineering samples of our new quantum resistant secure microcontroller delivered in Q4 2024, in line with our semiconductors’ R&D plan initiated in 2022. We are on target to make our QVault-TPM, the next generation of secure microcontrollers built by SEALSQ on our new Secure RISC-V CPU, available on the market in Q4 2025.
    • Signed a landmark agreement with the Swiss Army to co-develop advanced cybersecurity and space-based capabilities. The first new generation WISeSat satellite under this initiative was launched in January 2025.
    • $115 million pipeline of secured and pending business opportunities over the period from 2026 to 2028 as of April 15, 2025.

    LOOKING AHEAD TO 2025

    Strong Financial Foundation to Support Strategic Growth

    WISeKey’s 2024 year-end solid cash position in excess of $90 million (predominantly secured via the over $80 million capital raised during 2024 by SEALSQ), alongside the availability of any additional financing should it be required, and its much cleaner balance sheet, place the Company in a very strong position to invest in high-growth areas such as post-quantum cybersecurity, next-generation semiconductors, satellite infrastructure, and blockchain-based ecosystems.

    Despite certain sector-wide headwinds, the Company’s overall outlook remains robust with a pipeline of secured and pending business opportunities exceeding $115 million for the period from 2026 to 2028, supported by growing public sector and defense partnerships.

    WISeKey anticipates strong growth in 2025, propelled by SEALSQ’s quantum-resistant technology developments and expanding IoT security demand. This growth is expected to be driven by the integration of chip revenue from new sources, an expansion in chip personalization services, additional revenue generated by WISeSat, and the consolidated revenue from our planned investments.

    In our semiconductors vertical, SEALSQ has been the main revenue contributor in 2024 and in prior years. We anticipate that our new Quantum-Resistant chips will be available on the market in Q4 2025. WISeKey foresees generating substantial returns from the full-scale commercial deployment of this quantum resistant chip starting in 2026.

    WISeKey has therefore taken several initiatives to develop new revenue streams and strengthen net results.

    These initiatives include:

    • Quantix Edges: Semiconductor Personalization & Design Center in Spain

    WISeKey and SEALSQ jointly, together with OdinS and TProtege, two Spanish companies with extensive experience in R&D&I (Research & Development & Innovation) worldwide and in the design and manufacturing of IoT devices and solutions, plan to establish in the Region of Murcia a “Center of Excellence in Cybersecurity and Microchips” under the financial umbrella of the Microelectronics and Semiconductors Plan (PERTE CHIP) initiated by Spain.   The project called Quantix Edges is in the final stages of the approval process by SETT, the Spanish government’s entity responsible for funding under the PERTE budgets.

    • Consolidated revenue from acquisition opportunities

    The potential IC’ALPS acquisition, if completed, would bolster SEALSQ’s Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) development, and further strengthen WISeKey’s portfolio of products.

    • WISeSat’s new generation satellites

    Six more launches are planned during 2025 and 2026, with the next one currently scheduled for June 2025.

    • SEALCOIN’s TIoT commercial launch

    Following on from the successful Proof of Concept carried out in Q1 2025, SEALCOIN is working to identify partners to perform other PoCs and further demonstrate its readiness for industrialization of its TIoT solution.

    • Quantum as a Service

    In 2025, WISeKey advanced its commitment to quantum computing by investing in ColibriTD, a pioneering quantum technology company, aiming to integrate ColibriTD’s Quantum-as-a-Service (QaaS) platform into its Quantum Roadmap.

    • Scaled Up Global Footprint

    WISeKey continues to strategically expand its global presence, secure key partnerships with renowned distributors and sales representatives in crucial markets. These alliances have strengthened WISeKey’s market position while fueling growth by leveraging each partner’s expertise and established networks.

    KEY DEVELOPMENTS BY SUBSIDIARY

    SEALSQ: Leadership in IoT and Post-Quantum Cryptography Era

    SEALSQ advanced the Company’s mission to secure the connected world by focusing on post-quantum cryptography (PQC) and IoT security. Through its QUASAR platform, SEALSQ developed quantum-resistant technologies to protect data against future quantum threats, aligning with global standards like those from NIST. SEALSQ’s future strategy is built around four key priorities:

    1. Commercial Launch of Post-Quantum Chips

    • Commercial launch of two new post-quantum semiconductors, targeting IoT, PC, Tablets, and various industrial applications including medical, military and automotive sectors.
    • Expansion of chip fabrication partnerships to increase output for enterprise and government security solutions.
    • SEALSQ has set an ambitious five-year target to capture 20% of the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) market, a goal supported by strong market engagement. By the end of 2024, SEALSQ had secured over 60 qualified leads and one Design-IN for its TPM products, which are slated for commercial launch in 2025.
    • Developing Quantum resistant ASIC (custom design secure chips) for specific large client needs.

    2. Executing Targeted Acquisitions, Investments and Joint Ventures

    • Advanced and exclusive negotiations to acquire 100% of IC’ALPS; expected to be finalized in 2025.
    • As part of its global expansion strategy, SEALSQ is in final stage negotiations with Spanish authorities to establish an Outsourced Semiconductor Personalization and Test Center (OSPTC) in Spain. SEALSQ is exploring the development of similar OSPTCs in India, the United States, and the Middle East and Africa (MEA).
    • Planned continuing investment in startups engaged in quantum computing and AI initiatives as part of the SEALQUANTUM Initiative.

    3. R&D and Strategic Investments in Post-Quantum Security

    • SEALSQ is investing in the final development, qualification, certification (Common Criteria EAL5+ and FIPS 140-3 Level 3) process and the Industrialization (Wafer Test, Final Test, Packaging, Key Injection) of its Quantum-Resistant TPM 2.0 chip with a commercial launch target date set for Q4 2025. We are in discussions with over 60 interested potential customers, including major electronics manufacturers.
    • Scaling the first TPM PQC chip in broader ASIC offer for addressing the Medical, Defense, and IoT market segments.
    • First deployment of SEALSQ’s Quantum Resistant IoT chips on the WISeSat picosatellite constellation, enhancing secure connectivity in remote regions.

    4. Expanding Trust Services

    • Scaling managed PKI solutions for Matter IoT and enterprise security.
    • Expanding SSL/TLS and GSMA certificate offerings to reinforce global digital trust ecosystems.
    • Pushing adoption of INeS PKI Post quantum Cryptography latest features.

    WISeSat: Expanding Secure Space Capabilities

    WISeKey advanced its WISeSat.Space project, deploying low-earth-orbit picosatellites to provide secure IoT connectivity for remote applications. The Company continued to invest in this innovative satellite network, aiming to enhance global coverage for IoT ecosystems. With further deployments planned for 2025, WISeSat.Space is poised to address growing market demand for secure, satellite-based communication solutions, supporting critical infrastructure and underserved regions.

    Strategic Partnership with Swiss Armed Forces in the Space Sector
    In 2024, the WISeSat.Space division not only reinforced its strategic partnership with the Swiss Armed Forces in the space sector through the initiation of new projects, but it also formalized agreements with RUAG, the strategic integrator for the Swiss Armed Forces, for a national defence project focused on device-to-device communications.

    European Low Earth Orbit Satellite Constellation
    To date, WISeSat.Space has launched 17 mini-satellites with Space X into orbit through a strategic investment and partnership with FOSSA Systems, aimed at expanding its portfolio of space technology assets. Over the next 36 months, WISeSat.Space plans to deploy 88 next-generation satellites, following the January 2025 launch from California, which should significantly enhance global IoT connectivity and environmental monitoring capabilities, supporting applications such as climate change analysis, disaster response, and precision agriculture.

    Pioneering Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Transactions from Space
    In 2024, we took steps to launch a groundbreaking mission that harnesses WISeKey’s advanced security solutions in conjunction with the Hedera network to pioneer the exchange of SEALCOIN from space. Successfully tested in Q1 2025, this initiative marked the first-ever demonstration of secure digital cryptocurrency transactions conducted from orbit and established a proof-of-concept redefining boundaries of blockchain integration, a new era of space-based digital economies. Through this innovative endeavour, we reaffirmed our commitment to leading the development of digital currencies in an expanding technological landscape.

    Blockchain Ecosystem: SEALCOIN and WISe.ART

    SEALCOIN, WISeKey’s transactional IoT platform, made significant progress toward deploying decentralized digital identity solutions, leveraging blockchain to enable secure Web 3.0 transactions using our WISelD platform to incorporate Distributed Identity capabilities. With a development timeline set for key milestones in 2025, SEALCOIN aims to deliver scalable solutions for secure, trust-based interactions across digital networks, enhancing user control over identity and data.

    WISe.ART advanced its blockchain-based ecosystem for digital art and NFTs, integrating Web 3.0 technologies to ensure secure authentication and tokenization, capitalizing on the digital collectibles market. The WISe.ART platform has been developed to serve galleries, museums, and collectors, backed by WISeKey’s root-of-trust and blockchain compatible certificates of authenticity.

    WISeID: Empowering Private Digital Identity

    WISeID, WISeKey’s flagship digital identity platform, introduced biometric authentication, self-sovereign identity (SSI), and post-quantum cryptographic protocols, making it one of the world’s most secure digital identity systems.

    Complementing this, during 2024 WISeKey announced the ongoing development and planned launch of the SEALPhone, an ultra-secure smartphone designed with a privacy-by-design architecture. Currently in testing mode with several strategic clients, SEALPhone integrates WISeID and SEALCOIN, enabling secure communication, identity protection, and digital asset storage on a single hardware platform.

    FILING OF 2024 ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 20-F

    WISeKey filed its Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in the Form 20-F for the full year period ended December 31, 2024, with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on April 17, 2025. The Form 20-F can be accessed by visiting the Company’s website at www.wisekey.com.
    In addition, the Company’s stockholders may receive a hard copy of the Form 20-F, which includes complete audited financial statements, free of charge by contacting its Investor Relations Representative at lcati@equityny.com or +1 212 836-9611.

    CONFERENCE CALL

    The Company will host a conference call to review its results on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 10:00 am ET (4:00 pm CET). To join, please use the following dial-in numbers:

    • Toll-Free Dial-In Number: 877-445-9755
    • International Dial-In Number: 201-493-6744

    The webcast of the call can be accessed through the Investor Relations section of WISeKey’s website at www.wisekey.com. An archived version of the call will also be made available.

    ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL & OPERATIONAL DATA

    Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income/(Loss) [as reported]

      12 months ended December 31,
    USD’000, except earnings per share 2024   2023   2022
               
    Net sales 11,875   30,918   23,814
    Cost of sales (7,104)   (15,754)   (13,588)
    Depreciation of production assets (478)   (420)   (132)
    Gross profit 4,293   14,744   10,094
               
    Other operating income 184   167   2,073
    Research & development expenses (7,026)   (4,398)   (3,862)
    Selling & marketing expenses (8,550)   (6,523)   (7,275)
    General & administrative expenses (16,324)   (17,290)   (11,466)
    Total operating expenses (31,716)   (28,044)   (20,530)
    Operating loss (27,423)   (13,300)   (10,436)
               
    Non-operating income 1,629   2,374   3,937
    Debt conversion expense (32)   (562)   (827)
    Interest and amortization of debt discount (1,013)   (624)   (168)
    Non-operating expenses (2,018)   (3,107)   (5,551)
    Loss before income tax expense (28,857)   (15,219)   (13,045)
               
    Income tax income / (expense) (3,086)   (230)   3,238
    Loss from continuing operations, net (31,943)   (15,449)   (9,807)
               
    Discontinued operations:          
    Net sales from discontinued operations –   –   1,805
    Cost of sales from discontinued operations –   –   (978)
    Total operating and non-operating expenses from discontinued operations –   –   (5,274)
    Income tax recovery from discontinued operations –   –   25
    Loss on disposal of a business, net of tax on disposal –   –   (15,026)
    Income / (loss) on discontinued operations –   –   (19,448)
               
    Net loss (31,943)   (15,449)   (29,255)
               
    Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests (18,497)   (89)   (1,780)
    Net loss attributable to WISeKey International
    Holding Ltd    		 (13,446)   (15,360)   (27,475)
               
    Earnings per Class A Share (USD)          
    Earnings per Class A Share from continuing operations          
    Basic (0.92)   (0.50)   (0.44)
    Diluted (0.92)   (0.50)   (0.44)
    Earnings per Class A Share from discontinued operations          
    Basic –   –   (0.87)
    Diluted –   –   (0.87)
               
    Earning per Class A Share attributable to WISeKey International Holding Ltd          
    Basic (0.39)   (0.51)   (1.22)
    Diluted (0.39)   (0.51)   (1.22)
               
    Earnings per Class B Share (USD)          
    Earnings per Class B Share from continuing operations          
    Basic (9.17)   (5.01)   (4.36)
    Diluted (9.17)   (5.01)   (4.36)
    Earnings per Class B Share from discontinued operations          
    Basic –   –   (8.65)
    Diluted –   –   (8.65)
               
    Earning per Class B Share attributable to WISeKey International Holding Ltd          
    Basic (3.86)   (5.06)   (12.22)
    Diluted (3.86)   (5.06)   (12.22)
               
    Other comprehensive income / (loss), net of tax:          
    Foreign currency translation adjustments 287   (842)   (1,434)
    Reclassifications out of the OCI arising during period –   –   1,156
    Defined benefit pension plans:          
    Net gain (loss) arising during period (1,206)   (1,151)   2,934
    Other comprehensive income / (loss) (919)   (1,993)   2,656
    Comprehensive income / (loss) (32,862)   (17,442)   (26,599)
               
    Other comprehensive income / (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests (28)   (99)   (964)
    Other comprehensive income / (loss) attributable to WISeKey International Holding Ltd (891)   (1,894)   3,620
               
    Comprehensive income / (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests (18,525)   (188)   (2,744)
    Comprehensive income / (loss) attributable
    to WISeKey International Holding Ltd    		 (14,337)   (17,254)   (23,855)

    The notes are an integral part of our consolidated financial statements.

    Consolidated Balance Sheets [as reported]

      As at December 31,   As at December 31,
    USD’000 2024   2023
           
    ASSETS      
    Current assets      
    Cash and cash equivalents 90,600   15,311
    Accounts receivable, net of allowance for credit losses 4,285   5,471
    Notes receivable, current 13   63
    Inventories 1,418   5,230
    Prepaid expenses 1,364   1,290
    Government assistance 2,247   1,718
    Other current assets 573   1,008
    Total current assets 100,500   30,091
           
    Noncurrent assets      
    Notes receivable, noncurrent 32   –
    Deferred income tax assets –   3,077
    Deferred tax credits 250   15
    Property, plant and equipment net of accumulated depreciation 3,275   3,392
    Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization 96   96
    Operating lease right-of-use assets 1,502   2,052
    Goodwill 8,317   8,317
    Equity securities, at cost 455   486
    Other noncurrent assets 261   275
    Total noncurrent assets 14,188   17,710
    TOTAL ASSETS 114,688   47,801
           
    LIABILITIES      
    Current Liabilities      
    Accounts payable 13,496   12,863
    Notes payable 5,900   4,085
    Indebtedness to related parties, current 78   79
    Convertible note payable, current 9   190
    Deferred revenue, current 93   217
    Current portion of obligations under operating lease liabilities 607   638
    Income tax payable 2   4
    Other current liabilities 1,135   832
    Total current liabilities 21,320   18,908
           
    Noncurrent liabilities      
    Bonds, mortgages and other long-term debt 102   1,820
    Convertible note payable, noncurrent –   1,519
    Deferred revenue, noncurrent 21   24
    Indebtedness to related parties, noncurrent 1,387   –
    Operating lease liabilities, noncurrent 853   1,443
    Employee benefit plan obligation 3,877   3,001
    Other noncurrent liabilities 4   2
    Total noncurrent liabilities 6,244   7,809
    TOTAL LIABILITIES 27,564   26,717
    Commitments and contingent liabilities      
           
    SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY      
    Common stock – Class A 16   400
               Par value – CHF 0.01 and CHF 0.25      
    Authorized – 2,000,880 and 2,000,880 shares      
    Issued and outstanding – 1,600,880 and 1,600,880 shares      
    Common stock – Class B 359   8,170
    Par value – CHF 0.10 and CHF 2.50      
    Authorized – 6,194,267 and 6,194,267      
    Issued – 3,365,560 and 3,076,150      
    Outstanding – 3,309,052 and 2,954,097      
    Share subscription in progress 1   –
    Treasury stock, at cost (56,508 and 122,053 shares held) (502)   (691)
    Additional paid-in capital 316,431   289,448
    Accumulated other comprehensive income / (loss) 3,150   4,041
    Accumulated deficit (294,407)   (280,961)
    Total shareholders’ equity attributable to WISeKey shareholders 25,048   20,407
    Noncontrolling interests in consolidated subsidiaries 62,076   677
    Total shareholders’ equity 87,124   21,084
    TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY 114,688   47,801

    The notes are an integral part of our consolidated financial statements.

    Our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, after evaluating the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by the 2024 annual report, identified a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting relating to an ineffective review control that was identified by the auditor.  As a result, an adjustment was made to the additional paid-in capital and noncontrolling interest in the equity accounts by the Company prior to the issuance of the financial statements ended December 31, 2024, which did not impact upon the total equity. See Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements.

    About WISeKey
    WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”, SIX: WIHN; Nasdaq: WKEY) is a global leader in cybersecurity, digital identity, and IoT solutions platform. It operates as a Swiss-based holding company through several operational subsidiaries, each dedicated to specific aspects of its technology portfolio. The subsidiaries include (i) SEALSQ Corp (Nasdaq: LAES), which focuses on semiconductors, PKI, and post-quantum technology products, (ii) WISeKey SA which specializes in RoT and PKI solutions for secure authentication and identification in IoT, Blockchain, and AI, (iii) WISeSat AG which focuses on space technology for secure satellite communication, specifically for IoT applications, (iv) WISe.ART Corp which focuses on trusted blockchain NFTs and operates the WISe.ART marketplace for secure NFT transactions, and (v) SEALCOIN AG which focuses on decentralized physical internet with DePIN technology and house the development of the SEALCOIN platform.

    Each subsidiary contributes to WISeKey’s mission of securing the internet while focusing on their respective areas of research and expertise. Their technologies seamlessly integrate into the comprehensive WISeKey platform. WISeKey secures digital identity ecosystems for individuals and objects using Blockchain, AI, and IoT technologies. With over 1.6 billion microchips deployed across various IoT sectors, WISeKey plays a vital role in securing the Internet of Everything. The company’s semiconductors generate valuable Big Data that, when analyzed with AI, enable predictive equipment failure prevention. Trusted by the OISTE/WISeKey cryptographic Root of Trust, WISeKey provides secure authentication and identification for IoT, Blockchain, and AI applications. The WISeKey Root of Trust ensures the integrity of online transactions between objects and people. For more information on WISeKey’s strategic direction and its subsidiary companies, please visit www.wisekey.com.

    Disclaimer

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning WISeKey International Holding Ltd and its business. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding our business strategy, financial performance, results of operations, market data, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will occur in the future, as well as any other statements which are not historical facts and can be identified by forward-looking words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “continue,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “should,” “will” and “would” or similar words. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, no assurance can be given that such expectations will prove to have been correct. These statements involve known and unknown risks and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates which are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Important factors that, in our view, could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements include WISeKey’s ability to continue beneficial transactions with material parties, including a limited number of significant customers; market demand and semiconductor industry conditions; the growth of the post-quantum cryptography market; the adoption by developers and customers of quantum computing; the successful launch our post-quantum chips; our ability to sell post-quantum cryptography products to consumers; our ability to develop NIST-approved algorithms for our post-quantum semiconductor technologies; our ability to expand our chip personalization services; our ability to derive consolidated revenue from our planned investments; growth in our cybersecurity certificate and managed PKI services and acquisitions; our ability to expand our Semiconductor personalization and design facilities and semiconductor production; our ability to grow our U.S., Middle East and Asia-Pacific market presence; our ability to expand our Trust services; our development and tokenization of WISe.ART; our expansion of the WISeSat.Space project and the deployment of our next generation satellites; our proposed expansion into EMEA, North America and Asia; the deployment and commercialization of SEALCOIN and TIoT; the ongoing development and adopted of WISeID; and the risks discussed in WISeKey’s filings with the SEC. Risks and uncertainties are further described in reports filed by WISeKey with the SEC.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, and it does not constitute an offering prospectus within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act (“FinSA”), the FinSa’s predecessor legislation or advertising within the meaning of the FinSA. Investors must rely on their own evaluation of WISeKey and its securities, including the merits and risks involved. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied on as, a promise or representation as to the future performance of WISeKey.

    Press and Investor Contacts

    WISeKey International Holding Ltd
    Company Contact:  Carlos Moreira
    Chairman & CEO
    Tel: +41 22 594 3000
    info@wisekey.com     		 WISeKey Investor Relations (US) 
    The Equity Group Inc.
    Lena Cati
    Tel: +1 212 836-9611
    lcati@equityny.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EUROPE/ITALY – Farewell to Father Angelo Lazzarotto, a great friend of Chinese Catholics

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    photo Lino Giudice

    by Gianni ValenteRancio di Lecco (Agenzia Fides) – The old group photo chosen to accompany this memory portrays him in civilian clothes, just behind Deng Xiaoping. It was May 22, 1978. At 53 years old, the priest and PIME missionary – his friend Lino Giudice tells us today – had managed to be included in the delegation, accredited in his visa application as a “spiritual advisor” to the Milanese politician Vittorino Colombo, visible in the photo to the left of the “Little Helmsman.”Colombo, a Christian Democrat senator, was at the time one of the “bridge builders” with post-Maoist China led by Deng on the path of open-minded reforms. Father Angelo took advantage of even the smallest opportunity to reach out and see how he could support the Chinese Catholic communities, severely affected by the turbulent years of the Red Guards and Cultural Revolution.Father Lazzarotto died this Tuesday, April 15, at the nursing home for missionaries of the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions (PIME) in Rancio di Lecco, where he had been receiving care since 2017. He would have turned 100 on May 14. The photo published in the “Quotidiano del Popolo” in 1978 sums up a long and passionate life dedicated to bearing witness to Christ, with a special love for his Chinese brothers and sisters.Born in Falzè di Piave, in the province of Treviso, Father Angelo discovered his missionary vocation during high school in Conegliano Veneto. He entered the PIME high school seminary in Genoa at the age of 15 and was soon impressed by the stories of faith shared by missionaries in China. He was ordained a priest on December 20, 1947, and the following year began studies in Missiology at the Pontifical Urbaniana University in Rome, where he earned a degree three years later. In 1955, he also earned a degree in Missionary Law from the same university. During his time in Rome, he became acquainted with the Focolare Movement and immersed himself in the spirituality of unity and communion of Chiara Lubich.Throughout his life, Father Lazzarotto served the universal Church and especially the Church in China in many ways. Sent for the first time to Hong Kong in 1956, then a British colony, he experienced first-hand the difficulties faced by Chinese Catholic communities. After several years of service at his missionary Institute, he returned to Hong Kong in 1979. From 1985 to 1990, he was appointed Rector of the Pontifical Urban College of Propaganda Fide, by Cardinal Prefect Jozef Tomko. Later, in the 1990s, as the PIME website notes, “he actively collaborated with the CUM (United Center for the Missionary Cooperation among Churches ) in Verona, especially in the sections dedicated to Africa and Asia, for which he was responsible.”His passion for the Church in China can also be seen in his countless publications, books, articles, conferences, speeches and numerous trips to maintain contact with Chinese Catholic communities, listening first-hand to their desires, sufferings and prayers.Father Angelo was part of that group of missionary-Sinologists who, with different sensibilities but a common passion, helped in the decades following the Cultural Revolution to understand and accompany the reality of the Catholic Church in China and its journey in following the faith of the Apostles. Among them were Frenchman Jean Charbonnier, Polish Roman Malek, and his PIME confrere Giancarlo Politi, who preceded him in eternal rest.His intentions and speeches, always aimed at recognizing living faith in the midst of difficulties, promoted paths of communion and reconciliation, encouraging Chinese Catholic communities to overcome, or at least not exacerbate, contrasts and divisions.Father Lazzarotto’s funeral will be held on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at the PIME house in Rancio, Lecco. His remains will rest in the PIME Missionaries Cemetery in Villa Grugana, in the province of Lecco, Lombardy (Italy). (Agenzia Fides, 16/4/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/MALAYSIA – More than two thousand young people and adults will receive baptism at the Easter Vigil

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    photo stignatiuspj.org

    Kuala Lumpur (Agenzia Fides) – The Gospel attracts young people and adults seeking baptism in Malaysia: according to official communications from the local Church, the Catholic community in Malaysia will welcome more than 2,000 new faithful at the 2025 Easter Vigil, which will be celebrated on the evening of April 19: 1,047 newly baptized in Peninsular Malaysia and an equivalent number in Malaysian Borneo. During Lent, the catechumens celebrated the “Rite of Election,” a liturgical act marking the formal reception of catechumens into the Church, while the faithful united in prayer.In Kajang, in the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur, the rite took place in the Church of the Holy Family and brought together 549 catechumens. Archbishop Julian Leow, who presided over the Mass, recalled the theme of the Jubilee Year, “Pilgrims of Hope,” inviting the catechumens to grow in holiness: “All of us have been ‘elected,’ chosen by God to be part of His People,” he recalled.In the Diocese of Malacca-Johore, more than 281 catechumens from 17 parishes gathered in the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus for the Rite of Election. Addressing them, Bishop Bernard Paul emphasized the importance of the journey of preparation for baptism and exhorted them “to listen attentively to the voice of God, and not to be distracted. His voice is gentle, welcoming, and encouraging. God’s dream is that we are united to Him, that we are one in Him, as one people.”In the Diocese of Penang – also in Peninsular Malaysia – the Rite of Election included 156 catechumens from the deaneries of the North and Islands, and another 61 young catechumens from the deanery of Perak, who were received as “elect” at St. Michael’s Church in Ipoh. Cardinal Sebastian Francis presided over both celebrations, encouraging everyone to “embrace the joy of hope,” guided by figures such as Blessed Carlo Acutis.On the island of Malaysia, Malaysian Borneo, 1,125 catechumens from various parishes in the Archdiocese of Kota Kinabalu will receive baptism at Easter 2025. During the Rite of Election, which marked the conclusion of the Catechumenate period, Archbishop John Wong welcomed their intention to join the Catholic Church and declared them ready to complete the period of purification and enlightenment, a final and intense phase of preparation to receive the first three Sacraments (Baptism, Communion, and Confirmation) on Easter night. (Agenzia Fides, 17/4/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Unleashes American Commercial Fishing in the Pacific

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    UNLEASHING OPPORTUNITY IN THE PACIFIC: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed a proclamation to unleash American commercial fishing in the Pacific Ocean—a key component of the America First Fishing Policy.
    The proclamation opens the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument (PRIMNM) to commercial fishing, boosting the economy of American Samoa.
    It allows U.S.-flagged vessels to fish commercially within 50 to 200 nautical miles of the PRIMNM’s boundaries.
    EMPOWERING AMERICAN COMMERCIAL FISHERMEN: President Trump believes that removing unnecessary restrictions on American fishermen will strengthen the U.S. economy, support local communities, and restore fairness to an industry disadvantaged by overregulation and foreign competition.
    The PRIMNM was first established by President Bush in 2009 and then expanded by President Obama, closing off over 400,000 square miles of the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone in the Pacific.
    The ban on commercial fishing within the PRIMNM did little to guard fish populations against overfishing, as tuna and other pelagic species are migratory in nature and do not permanently reside within the PRIMNM.
    As a result of the prohibitions on commercial fishing, American fishing fleets have lost access to nearly half of the United States’ Exclusive Economic Zone in the Pacific Islands.
    This has driven American fishermen to fish further offshore in international waters to compete against poorly regulated and highly subsidized foreign fleets, most notably from China.
    By supporting honest American fishermen, we combat the rampant illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing by foreign fleets.

    This disadvantages United States commercial fishermen and is detrimental for United States territories like American Samoa, whose private sector economy is dependent on the fishing industry.
    American Samoa is home to the only Buy American-compliant tuna processing facility for U.S. military rations and school lunch programs.
    This cannery is the largest employer on the island, providing about 5,000 jobs.  In fact, the cannery accounts for 99.5% of American Samoa’s exports and 84% of the private employment in the territory.

    ADVANCING U.S. ECONOMIC INTERESTS: President Trump’s actions to revitalize commercial fishing are part of his broader strategy to unleash the full potential of the American economy by prioritizing deregulation and cutting red tape.
    President Trump launched a 10-to-1 deregulation initiative, ensuring every new Federal rule is justified by clear benefits and accompanied by much larger deregulatory measures.
    President Trump established the National Energy Dominance Council to cut red tape, enhance private sector investments, advance innovation, and streamline the permitting process across all forms of American energy.
    President Trump established the “Department of Government Efficiency” to examine how to streamline the operations of the Federal Government, eliminate unnecessary programs and wasteful spending, and reduce bureaucratic inefficiency.
    President Trump has already reduced unnecessarily large governmental entities and terminated numerous harmful Biden expansions of governmental authority.

    MIL OSI USA News –