Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ed Case (Hawai‘i – District 1)
(Washington, DC) — U.S. Representative Ed Case Ed Case (Hawai‘i-First District) announced today that last week the full U.S. House of Representatives in an overwhelming show of bipartisan support passed the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act of 2025 (H.R. 4275) which includes a provision to increase focus on Coast Guard operations in the Indo-Pacific that he introduced with Congressman Trent Kelly (Mississippi-First District).
Case explained, “With bipartisan support of the full House, the Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) Committee, Congressman Kelly and Congressman John Garamendi, the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act includes my push to mandate an annual plan for Coast Guard operations in the Indo-Pacific, including the annual budget needed to support these operations.”
Case continued: “Our plan will significantly enhance the Coast Guard’s effectiveness, readiness and strategic alignment in the Indo-Pacific by integrating Coast Guard activities with broader U.S. defense and foreign policy goals in the region.”
Case added that the provision “will allow for better forecasting of operational, personnel, asset and funding needs. It will ensure that the U.S. engagement in the region is sustained across the federal government and help to identify any operational gaps we have in the Indo-Pacific to better safeguard American and allied national security interests, respond to articulated needs of our Pacific Island partners and counter the People’s Republic of China’s increasingly malign influence in the region.”
Case said the provision comes from H.R. 3397, the Pacific Ready Coast Guard Act, a measure introduced by himself and Congressman Kelly. The provision was taken from that measure and inserted into H.R. 4275 by Congressman John Garamendi (California-Eight District), a cosponsor of the measure and a member of the T&I Committee.
Hawai‘i is the home of the Coast’s Guard’s operations throughout the Indo-Pacific. Its Oceania District is responsible for directing Coast Guard operations throughout Hawai‘i, Guam, the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, Oceania, Singapore and Japan. The Coast Guard works closely with the Department of Defense and America’s allies and partners to advance maritime governance as part of the rules-based international order essential to a free, open and secure Indo-Pacific.
H.R. 4275 authorizes $66.5 billion for Coast Guard operations and maintenance for five years, along with $185 billion in total funding for Coast Guard procurement and construction for the next five years. It also provides policy guidance for the Coast Guard.
The Coast Guard Reauthorization Act would also update Coast Guard sexual assault and harassment policies and modify requirements for commercial vessels. The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee previously approved the bill by a 60 to 0 vote on July 15 and sent the measure to the full House, which was approved on July 23 by a vote of 399 to 12.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson on Sunday said China will maintain its fair and impartial position and continue close communication with Cambodia and Thailand, actively facilitate talks for peace and play a constructive role for a ceasefire.
According to media reports, following international efforts to facilitate talks, Cambodia and Thailand have expressed willingness to cease hostilities, though clashes are still continuing along the border between the two countries.
When asked for China’s stance on the situation, the spokesperson said Cambodia and Thailand are and will always be each other’s neighbors, and both countries are China’s friends and neighbors.
Maintaining good-neighborliness and mutual trust and properly managing differences serve the two countries’ fundamental and long-term interests, and the region’s peace and stability, said the spokesperson.
The spokesperson noted that China is deeply saddened by the casualties inflicted on both sides and expresses heartfelt sympathies.
China hopes both sides will bear in mind the interests of the two peoples, cherish peace and good-neighborliness, exercise calm and restraint, come to a ceasefire as soon as possible, and settle differences peacefully through dialogue and consultation to restore peace and stability along the border soon, said the spokesperson.
Noting that both Cambodia and Thailand are important members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the spokesperson said ASEAN has been working intensively for days to bring about a ceasefire between the two sides. China commends the effort and welcomes all efforts conducive to deescalation, the spokesperson added.
A bold new initiative is set to help transform the future of primary care in New Zealand. Today marks the official launch of Health Accelerator, an innovation hub dedicated to developing and deploying digital solutions that empower primary care and improve patient care.
Health Accelerator is a collaborative joint venture between four of New Zealand’s largest primary care organisations — Pegasus, Pinnacle, ProCare, and Tū Ora Compass Health — collectively representing more than 500 general practices and serving over 2 million patients across the country.
Bindi Norwell, Co-Chair at Health Accelerator says: “Our purpose is a simple but powerful one. We want to help drive innovation in primary care to improve clinical workflows, enhance patient experiences, and reduce the administrative burden on healthcare teams — so doctors, nurses, and practice staff can focus on what they do best: caring for their patients.
“This is about game changing innovation, increasing productivity and expanding innovation for primary care, particularly through leveraging AI and digital solutions,” says Norwell.
“New Zealand’s health tech sector is valued at $3.7 billion and experiencing an annual growth rate of 8%. Health Accelerator is designed to speed up healthcare innovation by pooling resources, insights, and expertise. Essentially, it’s about creating a smarter, and faster path to innovation,” continues Norwell.
Justine Thorpe, fellow Co-Chair at Health Accelerator adds: “We know there are innovative digital solutions that can help address many of the challenges our network of practices face. Through Health Accelerator, we’re partnering closely with practices, start-ups, researchers, and government agencies to identify real-world problems and co-design scalable solutions that can benefit the entire sector.
“The first innovation we rolled out across the country was robots, which are aimed at supporting cardiovascular disease risk assessments (CVDRA), ensuring all ACC funding is claimed by practices where applicable, and two inbox management assistants. These tools are already making a difference by reducing the time clinicians spend on administrative tasks. We have developed about 10 robots to date and plan to develop more.” continues Thorpe.
“We are now looking at what other opportunities it will be able to announce soon, with AI scribes likely to be high on the list,” concludes Thorpe.
Health Accelerator is also encouraging healthcare practices facing challenges that could be addressed through a digital innovation to reach out, so solutions can be co-designed with users of the solutions in mind. Equally, the company is actively seeking partnerships with healthcare providers, innovators, and organisations who share its vision for a more connected, patient-focused future.
About Pinnacle Incorporated Pinnacle Incorporated is a not-for-profit primary care network supporting over 85 general practices across the Te Manawa Taki region, including Waikato, Taranaki, Rotorua, Taupō-Tūrangi, Thames-Coromandel, and Tairāwhiti. Serving nearly half a million enrolled patients, Pinnacle is committed to delivering high-quality, equitable, and innovative primary healthcare. Through its operational arm, Pinnacle Midlands Health Network (MHN), the organisation provides funding, clinical support, and digital solutions to help general practices thrive and improve health outcomes for their communities.
About Pegasus Health Pegasus Health is a charitable organisation dedicated to improving health outcomes for the people of Waitaha Canterbury. We achieve this through innovative service design and delivery, collaboration with partners, and a commitment to continuous improvement. We lead and collaborate across the primary health care sector with a special focus on Te Waipounamu. We are dedicated to ensuring that all people have access to the primary health care they need, when they need it, closing the health equity gap. Pegasus is committed to overtly, purposefully, and strategically threading equity and Te Tiriti o Waitangi through all we do and how we operate.
About ProCare ProCare is a leading healthcare provider that aims to deliver the most progressive, pro-active and equitable health and wellbeing services in Aotearoa. We do this through our clinical support services, mental health and wellness services, virtual/tele health, mobile health, smoking cessation and by taking a population health and equity approach to our mahi. As New Zealand’s largest Primary Health Organisation, we represent a network of general practice teams and healthcare professionals who provide care to nearly 700,000 patients across Auckland. These practices serve the largest Pacific and South Asian populations enrolled in general practice and the largest Māori population in Tāmaki Makaurau. For more information go towww.procare.co.nz
About Tū Ora Compass Health Tū Ora Compass Health Primary Health Organisation is a not-for-profit enterprise supporting an enrolled population of over 347,000 patients, through a network of 58 General Practice across Wellington, Porirua, Kāpiti, Hutt Valley and Wairarapa. We also support with a range of clinical services, health promotion and population health initiatives funded through various contracts throughout the region.
The demand for ‘greener’ bed and breakfast (B&B) accommodation is gaining traction worldwide, but operators should heed cultural differences when marketing their sustainable facilities, according to a new international study.
Led by Hong Kong Shue Yan University and the University of South Australia, the survey of 800 people from 37 countries examined how cultural values, age and education levels influenced tourists’ acceptance of environmentally sustainable features in B&Bs.
Previous global studies have indicated that many tourists are willing to pay more for environmentally friendly accommodation, but this is the first time that researchers have focused specifically on cultural attitudes towards B&B sustainable practices.
The study focused on five categories of sustainable facilities: water treatment systems (rainwater harvesting systems, greywater); greenery systems (sky gardens and vertical green walls); sanitation (hand sanitiser and air purification units); ventilation (natural air or air conditioning); and eco-friendly facilities (LED lights, organic composting bins).
Tourists from rules-based, autocratic and hierarchical countries such as China, India and Malaysia expressed the strongest support for all types of green features in B&Bs. Deemed ‘high-power distance’ cultures, citizens of these countries were more likely to use energy-saving products and choose natural ventilation over air conditioning, the survey revealed.
University of South Australia (UniSA) researchers Dr Li Meng and Professor Simon Beecham, who co-authored the study published in Consumer Behaviour in Tourism and Hospitality, say other cultural dimensions were less clear cut.
“Western cultures such as Australia, the United Kingdom and United States, appreciated rooftop gardens and vertical green walls, but these features were not strong factors in whether they chose a bed and breakfast,” according to the UniSA researchers.
Tourists from risk-averse cultures such as Japan, France and Greece were less likely to embrace B&Bs with natural ventilation, preferring to control their environment with air conditioning, the researchers say.
Highly-educated travellers rated sanitation and eco-friendly features more favourably, and younger tourists placed greater value on green systems than older people.
“These findings challenge assumptions that all green tourists are alike,” says lead author Professor Rita Yi Man Li from Hong Kong Shue Yan University.
“Many accommodation providers want to operate more sustainably, but few have considered how cultural values affect guest preferences,” Prof Li says.
“This research shows that guests from different cultural backgrounds respond differently to the same green features. Understanding these nuances can help B&B owners tailor their sustainability investments more effectively depending on their most important tourism markets.”
Dr Meng says younger guests may be drawn to visible features like rooftop gardens, while more educated visitors may look for practical elements like composting, LED lighting, or air purification systems.
The researchers say that governments also have a role to play in supporting the development of sustainable B&Bs.
By offering incentives, investing in sustainable infrastructure, and developing policies such as easing travel restrictions and visa policies, governments can help expand the international customer base for eco-friendly B&Bs, the study recommended.
‘Does culture really matter? A cross-cultural study of demand for B&B sustainable facilities’ is published in Consumer Behaviour in Tourism and Hospitality. DOI: 10.1108/CBTH-04-2024-0135. The study involved a cross-disciplinary team of researchers with expertise in economics, real estate, literature and environmental science.
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UniSA researcher contact: Professor Simon Beecham E:simon.beecham@unisa.edu.au Hong Kong Shue Yan University researcher contact: Professor Rita Li E:ymli@hksyu.edu
Keith Rankin, trained as an economic historian, is a retired lecturer in Economics and Statistics. He lives in Auckland, New Zealand.
Have you noticed how, in New Zealand news items and weather reports, Nelson and Marlborough are called the “top” of the South Island rather than the ‘north’ of that island. We also get phrases such as the “lower North Island” and the “upper North Island”. And New Zealand’s narrators regularly refer to New Zealand as being at the “bottom of the world”.
These phrases reference the (conventionally portrayed) map of the world, not the world itself. Rotate the map 180°. Nelson-Marlborough will still be the north of the South Island. But they will now be at the bottom of the top island! (And noting that the Roof of the World is the Tibetan Himalayas, not the North Pole. The South Island is at a higher latitude than the North Island; eg 44°S rather than 38°S. And Upper Egypt is south of – lower than? – Lower Egypt.)
Another really annoying aspect of a similar problem – in this case, the problem of colloquial jargon – is the propensity of financial journalists to refer to ‘up’ as ‘north’, as in “the stockmarket is heading north”. An even more egregious example I heard on RNZ on 29 May (Reserve Bank cuts OCR 25 basis points) was the Acting Reserve Bank Governor (Christian Hawkesby) referring to the ‘North Star’ as the ‘target’ of arcane monetary policy. Especially problematic was when he said “if you knew your North Star was much further south”. A bit ‘woo woo’ new age, if you get my meaning. Is the Reserve Bank trying to navigate the stormy seas where myth and reality meet, as in the search for Moby Dick? (Irish navigators 4,000 years ago could always return from a trip to Spain by following the North Star. Being in the ‘lower world’, Maui and Kupe faced more complex problems.)
Does the Reserve Bank make policy decisions based on Tarot Cards? Indeed, astrology did guide policy formation for most of human history.
The lesser problem is that ‘bottom’ has a pejorative meaning; a meaning that has been transferred to the word ‘south’ (which means ‘poor’ in the label ‘Global South’). The more substantive problem is the diminishing ability of ‘modern man’ (or at least homo sapiens in the Global North) to think abstractly. A diminishing abstract capacity allows us to conflate the reality of the planet Earth with its representation in the form of a map. And once too many of us see the representation as the same thing as the reality, the ongoing repetition of that framed construct self-reinforces; we give in to the narrative for the sake of mental peace and quiet. The imputed ‘reality’ of the conventional map becomes hard-wired; the map becomes reality, hardware rather than software.
Other examples of incongruent representation follow.
Knowledge Rich
‘Knowledge rich’ is a label that doesn’t match the package; refer Govt’s curriculum changes come under fire RNZ 22 July 2025. The phrase ‘knowledge rich’ appears to be an example of vacuous bureaucratic weasel words, to use a bit of idiomatic anti-jargon; a label useless except for obfuscation purposes. We would expect that the term ‘knowledge rich’ would mean something like ’emphasising the acquisition of knowledge’; ie the more understanding of reality the better.
When asked to define ‘knowledge rich’, the senior bureaucrat interviewee said in that RNZ interview: “really well-structured, clear content, the things that we want young people to know [my emphasis] and the things [skills?] that we want them to know how to do; we want them to learn … in nice sequential and … coherent learning pathway… structured ways … and that teachers need clarity on what needs to be taught and what students should be learning at any particular point on the pathway”. That’s actually reasonably clear for a bureaucrat put on the spot, but it’s not in any way the meaning of ‘knowledge rich’. This definition is about structure and constrained knowledge acquisition; it’s about young people learning what the state wants them to learn, only what the state wants them to learn, and in the ways the state wants them to learn. The label contradicts the reality, possibly with political intent.
It is clear that the Israeli government is exploiting the increased naivete of the western news audience; a state of entrenched naivety that – as noted above – has become hard-wired in too many of our brains, thanks to the ongoing use of language which presents representation as reality.
We should also note that, in Germany in the 1930s, Adolf Hitler was able to gain a groundswell of popular support through his representation of Jews as cunning and Machiavellian disrupters; it does not serve Israel well for their present-day leaders to give any semblance of support to Hitler’s portrayal.
Holocaust
Through a relentless multi-decade campaign, it has become hard-wired into too many western brains that there was little more to World War Two than The Holocaust; ie that WW2 was essentially a battle between ‘Hitler’ and ‘The Jews’, and that it was resolved by white knights in the form of Churchill and Roosevelt and Truman coming to the rescue – albeit too late – by dealing to Hitler and giving (as compensation) Palestine to The Jews. In the process, most other narratives in that war are by now largely forgotten.
World War Two was of course far more complex. Further, the label Holocaust is an inaccurate portrayal of those catastrophic events. One strength of the English language is its capacity to borrow from other languages. The correct label for this greatest of catastrophes should be that from the victims’ own language; their label, the Shoah. The word holocaust, correctly used, has connotations of fire and brimstone (especially raining from the sky); the best-known biblical example being the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah ‘documented’ in Genesis. We may note that part of the divine and the diabolical intents of both the biblical holocaust and of the Shoah was to eradicate homosexuals. World War Two has a number of ready-made examples of true holocausts; many perpetrated by the Allies, starting with Operation Gomorrah which incinerated Hamburg in 1943, and ending with the nuclear explosion over Nagasaki, Japan, in 1945.
The Holocaust obscures the holocausts, and much else. Inadequate representation indeed misrepresents the Shoah as a biblical spectacle, whereas it was really a coldly cynical mix of operations conducted in the then shadows. Was the Shoah a bigger catastrophe than Gomorrah? Probably yes.
Genocide and Terrorism
Earlier in the 2020s, people such as Paula Penfold and Liz Truss tried to represent the Chinese government’s persecution of the East Turkestan (aka Xinjiang) Uyghurs as “genocide”. They were ‘weaponising’ the g-word, part of a wider cross-partisan opportunity to demonise China during the Covid19 pandemic.
In the light of recent events in the Levant, an obvious and unmistakeable genocide which too many people refrain from calling a ‘genocide’, those anti-China representations look rather silly.
It is perfectly possible that people using the same identity label can be both victims of genocide and perpetrators of genocide; most likely at different places in different times. Most petty of all, this ‘is it a genocide?’ has become an elitist word-game. Anyone who thinks that if what is happening in Palestine does not meet some English-language definition of ‘genocide’ is morally bound to come up with an alternative word or phrase – presumably a somethingelse-icide – that more accurately conveys their assessment. Myself, I think that these events may be even more than a genocide; such as philosopher historian AC Grayling’s term culturicide (from Among the Dead Cities) which expresses what – for example, the Morgenthau Plan – looked to impose on post-war Germany (seeking to reduce Germany, with a pre-war population of 80 million to an impoverished ‘pastoral’ nation of 30 million). Cultural erasure is more than genocide.
Genocide is an unfortunate reality, a human propensity which has occurred in the past, is occurring in the present, and will occur periodically (unless finished by the ‘final genocide’, or biocide) in the future. Trying to weasel our way around it through an absence of language is a trait which has hard-wired itself, through denial and distractive fig-leaves, into elite cultures of complicity and impunity.
Another such word is ‘terrorism’. Winston Churchill and his bomber commander Arthur Harris had no doubt about the meaning of that word. So did the victims of their fiery terror, in Hamburg and many other cities. Now the representation of ‘terror’ through this word is restricted to a selected subset of resistance organisations. Winston Churchill understood that meaning of ‘terrorism’, too. His friend – Walter Guinness, 1st Baron Moyne – was assassinated in Cairo by fascist Lehi terrorists. (Re Lehi, see Stern: The Man, the Gang and the State, Al Jazeera 13 Aug 2024.)
Appeasement
This word may be used improperly, as a damaging misrepresentation of a political opponent, or avoided when it is most needed. (Grayling, in Among the Dead Cities, concludes that the Churchill/Harris holocausts on German cities, were in large part an ineffective appeasement of Josef Stalin.)
Here’s a correct recent use of the a-word: “With such uncontrolled power and aggressive posture, it seems Israel is seeking submission [in Syria and the rest of the ‘Middle East’ region]. The Trump administration’s approach of solving crises by appeasing Israel will entrench this doctrine and push the region into further instability.” (Nour Odeh, reporting from Amman in lieu of Al Jazeera ban by Israel, Al Jazeera News, about 8:05am NZ time, 20 July 2025. She ‘hit the nail on the head’.)
Could someone who has been represented as an ‘appeaser’ ever be a justifiable winner of a Nobel Peace Prize? I think the answer is a ‘qualified yes’; just as good fishers sometimes have to appease their quarry before reeling them in. But, I think, neither an appeaser of Netanyahu nor Stalin could qualify for that prize.
In reality, appeasement has to be done sometimes. New Zealand dairy owners have been routinely asked to appease violent robbers. And, in the movies, when someone points a gun at someone and says “hands up”, the victim almost always appeases the gunner, regardless of their moral position.
‘Appeasement’ is a representation that’s both underused and overused; a representation designed to construct a deception. If we cannot distinguish between representation and reality, label and labelled, then we stand to become victims to all kinds of mischievous narratives.
Cost of Living
The Government and the Opposition both frame the alleged “cost of living crisis” as a problem of inflation rather than deflation. Indeed, the linguistic minefield around economic policy is so problematic that a whole separate article is required to examine it.
The key issue for us here is that the ‘cost-of-living’ framing – ie representation – in government circles is that the economy must be in an inflationary phase and therefore a deflationary policy is required. However, when the New Zealand public complain about the ‘cost-of-living’ they are saying that prices are too high compared to their incomes; it’s an ‘affordability crisis’, not an inflationary crisis. And clearly the deflationary retrenchment policies – meaning policies to slow the economy down, to instigate a recession – pursued by the government are a critical part of the problem. The government’s solution is to represent its actual class-war anti-growth policies as ‘pro-growth’ policies. And the Labour Opposition completely falls for the way the government frames New Zealand’s structural recession as a ‘cost-of-living’ crisis.
At present, New Zealand has near-record-high (north!?) ‘terms of trade’, only slightly below the record highs of 2022. New Zealand’s terms of trade are now 50% higher than they were in 2000, and nearly 100% higher than the dramatic lows of the mid-1970s and early 1980s. As when Brian Easton wrote In Stormy Seas: The Post-War New Zealand Economy in 1997, the terms of trade represented the stormy waves, some bigger than others; and the favourable crests of those waves were when New Zealand expected (and generally got) economic good times. The troughs during the Muldoon years – not Robert Muldoon’s fault; he never had the power to shift the tides of a stormy world – were very difficult times for Aotearoa New Zealand. In these terms the twenty-first century has been the ‘best of times’ for New Zealand, and the 2020s the ‘very best of times’. Yet they are also the ‘worst of times’, to reference Charles Dickens. (Many of our most potent truths come from literature.)
New Zealand, like other countries, has experienced economic cycles and economic shocks. Through my lifetime one consistent cycle has been the short ‘trade-cycle’, on average about 32 months. We are near the crest of that cycle now. The last quarterly growth peak, September 2022, led to an annual growth peak of 4% in the year-to June 2023. Based on the usual timing of the trade cycle, June 2025 will be the next quarterly peak. It will not be pretty, if that will be the best GDP data that we get on this government’s watch. Any positivity when the next GDP figures are released in September, in colloquial jargon, may be characterised as a ‘dead-cat bounce’.
The government is undertaking structural retrenchment under the cover of a ‘cost-of-living crisis’ that means very different things to different people. Insinuating that New Zealand has a crisis of inflation – taken as a synonym for ‘overspending’ – when it has a very real crisis of structural recession and growing unemployment, is a particularly cynical misrepresentation of reality.
Conclusion
We too easily fall for these misrepresentations of reality; for representations that, in our minds, become a reality like treacle; sets of overlayed representations which play tricks on our minds. That makes us, and our political Opposition parties, quite unable to form coherent critiques of the too many misrepresented and problematic things that are happening to us.
In New Zealand, although we are allegedly at the ‘bottom of the world’, in the Far Southeast (fortunately not in the incorrectly named ‘Middle East’!). We also pride ourselves as being in the West and in the Global North. What is genuinely true is that Aotearoa New Zealand is geographically very far from most of the rest of humanity. We could use that birds-eye bottom-of-the-world detached perspective to see past the labels, the frames, the self-serving narratives. We don’t have to play ‘silly buggers’ when the rest of the world is so-doing; we can cut through the ‘bullshit’, to use some more colloquial jargon. We can be the North Star of the South.
With escalating geopolitical wars, and plenty of undertested nuclear weapons in the hands of numerous political sociopaths, being at ‘the bottom of the world’ may not be such a great place to be. All of us of a certain age remember British, American, and French nuclear testing in Oceania. Some, a bit older, remember nuclear testing in Japan.
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Keith Rankin (keith at rankin dot nz), trained as an economic historian, is a retired lecturer in Economics and Statistics. He lives in Auckland, New Zealand.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, July 27 (Xinhua) — China will adhere to a fair and impartial attitude, continue to maintain close communication with Cambodia and Thailand, actively promote reconciliation and negotiation, and play a constructive role in promoting a ceasefire, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Sunday.
With international mediation, Cambodia and Thailand recently expressed their willingness to end hostilities, although clashes continue along the border between the two countries, according to media reports.
Answering a question about China’s position on this situation, the official representative of the Chinese Foreign Ministry drew attention to the fact that Cambodia and Thailand have always been and will be neighbors to each other, and at the same time, both countries are friends and neighbors of China.
According to him, firmly adhering to the principle of good-neighborliness and mutual trust, as well as properly resolving differences, serve the fundamental and long-term interests of the two countries, as well as peace and stability in the region.
The official said China was deeply saddened by the casualties on both sides and expressed its sincere condolences.
As the diplomat pointed out, China hopes that both sides will proceed from the interests of the two peoples, cherish peace and good-neighborliness, maintain calm and restraint, reach a ceasefire at an early date, and peacefully resolve differences through dialogue and consultation, so as to restore peace and stability in the border areas at an early date.
Noting that Cambodia and Thailand are important members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the spokesperson said ASEAN has been actively promoting a ceasefire between the two sides in recent days. China highly appreciates this and welcomes all efforts to help de-escalate the situation, he added. –0–
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Hong Kong movies showcased at 2025 Fantasia International Film Festival in Montreal Speaking before the world premiere of “Good Game” on July 27 (Montreal time), the Acting Director of the Toronto ETO, Mr Gavin Yeung, highlighted the efforts of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government in supporting the development of Hong Kong’s film industry and strengthening Hong Kong’s role as a bridge between East and West for international cultural exchanges.
“The HKSAR Government actively finances the production of small-to-medium budget films, provides funding support for the industry professionals to participate in international film festivals, and subsidises training programmes to nurture young directors and film talent,” said Mr Yeung.
He added that Hong Kong’s film industry has been globally recognised. “Hong Kong boasts a rich pool of creative talent and is one of Asia’s leading filmmaking hubs. Over the past decade, our films and filmmakers have received numerous prestigious international awards,” he noted.
Also present at the screening was the writer and actor of “Good Game”, Ken Law, who introduced the film before the screening and engaged with the audience during a post-screening Q&A session.
The other Hong Kong films featured at the Festival are: “Stuntman”, “A Chinese Ghost Story III”, “The Battle Wizard” and “Bullet in the Head”. Issued at HKT 3:54
India pulled off a remarkable escape to force a draw in the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford on Sunday, riding on a spirited batting display led by Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar.
Facing a daunting 311-run deficit and reduced to 0/2 early in their second innings, India responded with defiance, batting through more than five sessions for the loss of just two additional wickets. They finished the final day on 425/4, denying England a series-clinching win.
Skipper Shubman Gill led from the front with a resolute century — his fourth of the series — while Jadeja and Sundar struck unbeaten hundreds of their own, frustrating the hosts in front of a silenced Old Trafford crowd.
Earlier, England had set up the game with the bat, piling on 669 in their first innings — their fifth-highest total in Test history. But their bowlers failed to make inroads on a pitch that gradually flattened out, allowing the visitors to claw their way back into the contest.
The result keeps the five-match series alive at 2-1 in England’s favour. The hosts now head to the final Test at The Oval, starting Thursday, needing to avoid defeat to secure the series.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BANGKOK, July 27 (Xinhua) — Acting Prime Minister of Thailand Phumtham Vechayachai will lead a delegation to Malaysia to discuss the Thai-Cambodian border issue, Thai government spokesman Jirayu Hungsub said Sunday.
In a statement, he said Phumtham Vechayachai would visit Malaysia on July 28 at the invitation of Anwar Ibrahim, the prime minister of that country, which holds the current chairmanship of ASEAN. The Thai delegation would also include Foreign Minister Marit Sangyampong.
Malaysia has also invited Cambodian officials to the talks, with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet expected to attend, Jiraju Hungsub said. The official added that Thailand would not compromise on sovereignty. –0–
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Singapore, 28 July 2025 – The new Mandai North Crematorium (MNC) and Garden of Serenity (GOS), operated by the National Environment Agency (NEA), will begin operations on 15 August 2025. MNC will start with four cremation services daily. Cremation services will be ramped up progressively over the coming months.
2 The new facilities, spanning approximately 2.4 ha, have been built in anticipation of demographic changes and an ageing population in Singapore. Annual resident deaths are projected to increase from about 25,000 in 2024 to around 40,000 by 2040. The new crematorium will provide additional cremation capacity, and the GOS will provide an additional option for the inland scattering of ashes. They will enable us to continue serving the nation’s needs in the years ahead.
Facility designed to create a healing environment for the bereaved by integrating greenery and natural lighting within the key spaces
3 The MNC is designed to house six service halls with viewing halls, transfer halls, and 18 cremators. Currently, three service halls are equipped with nine cremators. The ash collection centre is also ready for operations. NEA will fit out the remaining halls and cremators to meet anticipated demand for cremations.
Service hall
4 The new cremation facility offers an innovative design and technological features to enhance operational efficiency, and provide a seamless experience for visitors [1]. Some key features include a layout where service halls and viewing halls are adjacent, reducing walking distances and improving accessibility for all users. Technology is also used to enhance the visitor experience, with automated guided vehicles for coffin transport, and a self-help system at the ash collection centre. A comprehensive process control monitoring system oversees the entire cremation and ash collection process, ensuring service reliability.
Layout is designed with key facilities positioned side by side on the same level or connected vertically via escalators and lifts, reducing walking distances for visitors.
Automated guided vehicle will be used to transport a coffin from hearse drop off to the service hall
Ash collection station with a self-help system to facilitate collection of cremated ashes
5 The MNC has been awarded the Green Mark (Platinum) by the Building and Construction Authority for sustainability efforts in building design. The environmental features at the facility include greenery in and around the building, a green roof that reduces the heat island effect, efficient underfloor cooling systems, and adoption of low carbon concrete and sustainable building products [2] to reduce the carbon footprint of the building.
6 The GOS, Singapore’s second inland ash scattering facility, is located next to the MNC building [3]. It adopts an open garden concept with designated lanes for walkways and ash scattering [4]. It also incorporates a stormwater detention pond designed as a natural pond. The new facility will enable us to meet increasing demands for inland ash scattering service [5].
Garden of Serenity: Landscaping and greenery have been used to create a peaceful, serene garden setting, to provide a dignified and respectful environment for ash scattering
7 NEA will continue to plan ahead to ensure sufficient government after-death facilities and services, and to provide these services in a way that allows bereaved families to come together to send off their loved ones with dignity and respect.
————————————————————
[1] SeeAnnex Afor more details on the design inspiration for the facility
[2] Certified by the Singapore Green Building Council or on the Singapore Green Labelling Scheme.
[3] The Garden of Serenity occupies approximately 750 sqm within the new Mandai North facility.
[4] SeeAnnex Bfor more details on the features at Garden of Serenity.
[5] Accumulated ash soil will periodically be transferred from the ash scattering lanes to a designated location within the Garden of Peace (located at the Choa Chu Kang Cemetery) due to limited available space at GOS, to ensure that its lanes remain available for continued use.
~~ End ~~
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Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
LUOYANG, July 27 (Xinhua) — Just before noon on July 26, the square in front of the Dingdingmen Gate Museum in Luoyang, central China’s Henan Province, was filled with ancient sounds as participants of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit climbed the steps, immersing themselves in the atmosphere of the Tang Dynasty’s bustling trade with other countries at the time.
On this day, about a hundred Summit participants arrived in Luoyang to see with their own eyes the rich historical heritage and modern development dynamics of this city.
Luoyang Mayor Zhang Yujie warmly welcomed the guests. “Luoyang is the cradle of Chinese civilization, the eastern starting point of the Silk Road, where the capitals of 13 dynasties were located at different times,” he said. “The city has witnessed brilliant pages of trade and cultural exchanges between the East and the West. Today, Luoyang is rapidly building a national innovation city and creating a bridgehead for opening up China’s inland regions to the outside world, actively integrating into the Belt and Road Initiative.”
Zhang Yujie expressed hope for joint projects with the media of the SCO countries in the format of “Retracing the Silk Road” in order to tell the stories of ancient and modern Luoyang from new angles.
Standing on the majestic tower of the Dingdingmen Gate, Tlesh Mamakhatov, a leading researcher at the Institute of China and Modern Asia of the Russian Academy of Sciences (ICSA RAS), admired the grandiose layout of the ancient capital.
“Chinese culture is immensely deep. Confidence in one’s own civilization while respecting others is the key to the prosperity of ancient Chinese culture, economy and the flourishing of the Silk Road,” he stressed.
Today, according to him, the SCO countries under this banner are following the path of mutual learning between civilizations and harmonious coexistence.
Guests also visited the immersive project “Empress Wu’s Banquet”, going on a cultural journey through a thousand years to the Tang Dynasty. Based on the gastronomic traditions of the reign of Empress Wu Zetian, the project recreated the atmosphere of banquets – from table setting to dish design. Classic dishes of the Luoyang Banquet Menu / Shuixi / were accompanied by ancient music and dance. Participants, enjoying the delicacies, watched the performance of artists in Tang costumes. This feast was not only a gastronomic but also an aesthetic immersion into the majestic culture of the Tang Dynasty.
In the “China YTO Group Intellectual Innovation Space”, guests were introduced to the development and production processes of intelligent agricultural machinery, learned about the export of the company’s products, and felt the pulse of modern Luoyang. Participants enthusiastically took pictures against the backdrop of large-sized tractors, giving high marks to premium-class equipment made in China.
The program ended at the Longmen Grottoes and Temples, where guests experienced the unique charm of China’s largest open-air stone sculpture museum.
“It is very interesting to visit the historical city of Luoyang and such special places where you can feel the spirit of China,” said Irina Akulovich, Director General of the Belarusian Telegraph Agency (BELTA), calling her sixth trip to China absolutely “amazing” and “unusual.”
“I have never seen such sculptures and caves in my life!” I. Akulovich noted with admiration during her visit to this complex, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has a history of more than 1,500 years and represents the pinnacle of Chinese stone carving art. -0-
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
The Hospital Authority (HA) has expressed concern over a fatal accident today on a construction site at Queen Mary Hospital (QMH), where the Architectural Services Department (ArchSD) is carrying out redevelopment works.
This afternoon, a worker employed by a lift engineering subcontractor was trapped in one of the lift shafts. Site management staff immediately called the Fire Services Department to rescue the worker, who was subsequently certified dead upon arrival at QMH’s accident and emergency department.
After receiving a report of the accident, the Labour Department immediately deployed staff to the site and is now conducting an investigation.
Expressing deep sorrow over the incident, the HA extended its sincere condolences to the deceased worker’s family. It also directed the ArchSD to ensure that the contractor involved provides appropriate assistance to the bereaved and supports them in handling the worker’s after-death arrangements.
The HA said site staff from the ArchSD immediately contacted the contractor after the accident to follow the matter up. The contractor has been urged to take the incident seriously and to adopt all necessary measures as soon as possible to ensure site safety. The contractor has also been requested to thoroughly investigate the cause of the incident and submit a report to the ArchSD and the HA, with a view to preventing similar accidents from happening again.
The HA added that it will urge the ArchSD and the contractor to fully co-operate with the Labour Department and enforcement agencies in their investigations.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Hospital Authority’s statement regarding an industrial accident at Queen Mary Hospital redevelopment project construction site The redevelopment project of QMH is being carried out by the Architectural Services Department (ArchSD). This afternoon, the HA was notified by the ArchSD that a worker employed by a lift engineering subcontractor was trapped in one of the lift shafts during work. The site management of the contractor immediately called Fire Services Department to rescue the worker, who was then sent to the Accident and Emergency Department of QMH for emergency treatment. The worker was certified dead upon arrival at the Accident and Emergency Department.
The HA expresses deep sorrow over this incident and extends its sincere condolences to the deceased worker’s family. The HA has directed the ArchSD to ensure that the contractor provides appropriate assistance to the family and supports them in handling the family member’s after-death arrangements.
The HA is very concerned about the incident. Since the lifts involved in the project have not yet undergone all required works and adjustments, and have not been handed over for use and management by QMH. The HA is aware that site staff from the ArchSD immediately contacted and followed up with the contractor after the accident. The contractor has been urged to take the incident seriously and to adopt all necessary measures as soon as possible to ensure site safety. The contractor has also been requested to thoroughly investigate the cause of the incident and to submit a report to the ArchSD and the HA as soon as possible to prevent similar accidents from happening again.
The HA has always placed paramount importance on industrial safety at hospital construction sites. The HA notes that the contractor will report this incident to the Labour Department, and the HA will also urge the ArchSD and the contractor to fully co-operation with the Labour Department and other relevant enforcement agencies in their investigation. Issued at HKT 22:41
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Sunday said that the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) reflects the growing strength and global standing of the country.
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of a felicitation ceremony here, the Union Minister described the FTA as the most comprehensive free trade agreement India has signed to date.
“This agreement is a result of the trust Prime Minister Narendra Modi has built globally. It has enabled India to negotiate and finalise trade deals with developed nations, not as competitors but as complementary partners,” Goyal said.
He added that the FTA would unlock new opportunities for India and stands as a testament to the country’s rising stature on the world stage.
The Minister noted that over the past 11 years, under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, India has transformed from a fragile economy into one of the world’s top five.
“By 2027, India will become the third-largest economy globally,” he said.
Goyal also highlighted that India’s growing confidence has empowered it to engage in successful free trade agreements with advanced economies.
Negotiations are currently underway with countries such as New Zealand, Oman, and the United States, as well as with the 27-member European Union.
He further emphasised that the Modi government has opened new avenues for farmers, fishermen, and industries, leading to a sharp rise in exports.
The government aims to double exports in the next five years. “Millions of youth are finding employment in the services sector, and the world now recognises PM Modi as one of the most respected and popular global leaders,” Goyal stated.
In a post on social media platform X, the Minister also said, “Today, India is not just being seen — it is dominating global markets.”
He spoke in detail about the benefits the India-UK Free Trade Agreement is bringing to various sectors, including agriculture, MSMEs, gems and jewellery, the fishing community, textiles, electronics and IT, and services.
Goyal added, “Under Prime Minister Modi’s decisive leadership, India has established a strong and influential identity on the global stage. The India-UK FTA is a living example of that progress. It is a historic agreement that is opening new doors for every section of Indian society.”
He further said that this step is extremely significant in every sense, as it will help fulfil the vision of a developed India by 2047.
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Sunday said that the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) reflects the growing strength and global standing of the country.
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of a felicitation ceremony here, the Union Minister described the FTA as the most comprehensive free trade agreement India has signed to date.
“This agreement is a result of the trust Prime Minister Narendra Modi has built globally. It has enabled India to negotiate and finalise trade deals with developed nations, not as competitors but as complementary partners,” Goyal said.
He added that the FTA would unlock new opportunities for India and stands as a testament to the country’s rising stature on the world stage.
The Minister noted that over the past 11 years, under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, India has transformed from a fragile economy into one of the world’s top five.
“By 2027, India will become the third-largest economy globally,” he said.
Goyal also highlighted that India’s growing confidence has empowered it to engage in successful free trade agreements with advanced economies.
Negotiations are currently underway with countries such as New Zealand, Oman, and the United States, as well as with the 27-member European Union.
He further emphasised that the Modi government has opened new avenues for farmers, fishermen, and industries, leading to a sharp rise in exports.
The government aims to double exports in the next five years. “Millions of youth are finding employment in the services sector, and the world now recognises PM Modi as one of the most respected and popular global leaders,” Goyal stated.
In a post on social media platform X, the Minister also said, “Today, India is not just being seen — it is dominating global markets.”
He spoke in detail about the benefits the India-UK Free Trade Agreement is bringing to various sectors, including agriculture, MSMEs, gems and jewellery, the fishing community, textiles, electronics and IT, and services.
Goyal added, “Under Prime Minister Modi’s decisive leadership, India has established a strong and influential identity on the global stage. The India-UK FTA is a living example of that progress. It is a historic agreement that is opening new doors for every section of Indian society.”
He further said that this step is extremely significant in every sense, as it will help fulfil the vision of a developed India by 2047.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
ZHENGZHOU, July 27 (Xinhua) — Participants at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit held in Zhengzhou, capital of central China’s Henan Province, from July 23 to 27 stressed the importance of properly publicizing the SCO’s cooperation and outstanding achievements.
“We are very well aware that we, journalists, are shaping the news agenda and are starting to talk more and more about the countries of the global South,” said Irina Akulovich, director general of the Belarusian Telegraph Agency (BELTA), citing the fact that, according to estimates, the agency has already released several hundred articles about the SCO in recent months.
According to her, today people need short and quick information, and social networks in many ways do not take responsibility for the information they provide, which leads to the truth having a harder time getting through.
We must teach people to use information correctly, as well as to trust state media and analytics, said I. Akulovich.
“That is why we must learn to quickly, interestingly and concretely talk in accessible language about what is happening and what our countries are doing to change this world,” she emphasized.
According to Mirzohid Rakhimov, director of the Coordination and Methodological Center for the Modern History of Uzbekistan at the Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, it is very important for the media to cover the history of the formation of the SCO, showing the path the organization took from its first steps to such a large national formation.
He believes that lecture courses dedicated specifically to the SCO and what the media shows are also useful in that the SCO countries can exchange experiences in development with each other.
“In recent years, I have visited Chinese universities several times and observed society, the city. I can say that the Chinese experience of transforming science and education is very useful for the countries of Central Asia. I think that here countries can learn a lot from each other in terms of studying aspects of the development of society, so it is important for the media to show all this comprehensively and objectively,” he said.
Director of the Kyrgyz Center for Expert Initiatives “Oi Ordo” Igor Shestakov said: “Today it was said that one of the tasks of the SCO is to provide objective information. And here the role of analytical centers and mass media is very high.”
Having stated that he is a regular reader of the Xinhua News Agency and learns news about China through it, I. Shestakov noted that with its network of correspondent offices in almost all SCO countries, Xinhua serves as an important example.
“We should be guided by the Xinhua model and communicate more not on the Internet, not by phone, but on forums like these,” he said.
In his view, people in China and Central Asia learn about the SCO from experts and the media, which therefore play a very important role. However, it is important to talk about the organization objectively, he added.
The five-day event brought together around 400 representatives from approximately 200 leading media outlets, renowned think tanks and government agencies from 26 SCO countries, as well as international and regional organizations such as the UN, the SCO Secretariat, etc.
As noted in the Zhengzhou Consensus released during the summit, the media and think tanks of the SCO countries should give full play to their roles as bridges and links to jointly and properly report on the SCO cooperation and showcase its outstanding achievements, thereby bringing wisdom and strength to the promotion of peace, stability, prosperity and development in the region and the world. -0-
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Premier David Eby has issued the following statement marking Korean War Veterans Day:
“We mark this day in remembrance of more than 26,000 Canadians who served during the Korean War. We honour the ultimate sacrifice of the 516 Canadians who lost their lives during the three-year conflict, as well as more than 1,200 who were wounded.
“On June 25, 1950, troops from North Korea invaded South Korea. United Nations forces soon joined the conflict in defence of that sovereign nation.
“Men and women in the Canadian Army, the Royal Canadian Navy and the Royal Canadian Air Force joined 17 other UN member nations in serving in the region. Approximately 7,000 Canadians served as peacekeepers following the July 27, 1953, armistice.
“Once viewed as a ‘forgotten war,’ the Korean War is now recognized as an important part of Canada’s military history. Over three years, Canadians fought a gruelling and courageous battle on the land, at sea, and in the air, and we owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to all who served.
“We honour their service, their sacrifice and their bravery.”
Vaccines have prevented more than 2.5 million deaths caused by SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind COVID-19, according to a new study.
Led by researchers from the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Italy, the study found that one COVID-related death was avoided for every 5,400 vaccine doses administered.
About 82% of the lives saved involved people who were vaccinated before contracting the virus. Additionally, 57% of the total lives saved were during the Omicron period, and 90% of the deaths prevented were among individuals aged 60 and above.
Overall, the study estimated that vaccines saved 14.8 million years of life globally—equivalent to one year of life saved for every 900 doses administered. The findings were published in the JAMA Health Forum journal.
“Previous studies attempted to estimate lives saved by vaccines using different models, timeframes, or regional data,” said Dr. Angelo Maria Pezzullo and Dr. Antonio Cristiano. “However, this study is the most comprehensive to date. It uses global data, includes the Omicron period, quantifies life years saved, and is based on fewer assumptions regarding pandemic trends.”
For the analysis, researchers examined global population data and applied a series of statistical models to determine who became ill with COVID-19—either before or after vaccination—and during or after the Omicron period, including age and mortality outcomes.
“We compared this data with modeled estimates assuming no COVID vaccination. This allowed us to calculate how many people were saved and the number of life years gained due to vaccination,” explained Dr. Pezzullo.
The study also revealed that 76% of the saved life years were among people over 60. However, residents of long-term care facilities accounted for only 2% of the total benefit.
Children and adolescents accounted for just 0.01% of lives saved and 0.1% of life years saved. Similarly, young adults aged 20–29 contributed 0.07% of lives saved and 0.3% of life years saved, the researchers noted.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spotlighted a compelling example of grassroots transformation, sharing a poignant story from Gumla district in Jharkhand — a region once shadowed by Maoist violence that now glows with the promise of peace and livelihood.
The Prime Minister narrated the journey of Om Prakash Sahu, a young man from Basia block who once stood at the precipice of violence but chose a different path.
Amid threats and isolation, Sahu took up fish farming, gradually steering others toward peaceful employment.
His determination sparked a quiet revolution — turning a conflict-ridden zone into a hub of aquatic entrepreneurship. Once marked by deserted villages and widespread migration, Gumla has witnessed a steady turnaround.
Sahu’s initiative, bolstered by the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, opened avenues for training, infrastructure, and financial support, leading to the creation of multiple fishponds across the block.
“Today, over 150 families in Basia — including many who were once part of Maoist groups — have embraced aquaculture. They now enjoy dignified livelihoods within their own villages and are contributing to local employment,” the Prime Minister said.
“If the path is right and there is trust in the mind, the lamp of development can be lit even in the most difficult circumstances,” he added.
The transformation of Gumla reflects the broader narrative PM Modi emphasised in Mann Ki Baat — how resilience, coupled with government-backed schemes, can redirect lives from despair to productivity.
His remarks drew attention not only to individual courage but also to the enabling role of targeted development policies.
As the country nears the 78th Independence Day, the Prime Minister’s message resonated deeply: that true freedom lies not just in governance but in empowering citizens to rewrite their own stories.
The example of Gumla stands as a beacon — where darkness once reigned, the light of hope now flickers through community-led change and state support.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that Operation Sindoor has sent a clear message to the world that India will respond strongly to any threat against its security and sovereignty.
Speaking at the historic Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple in Tamil Nadu’s Ariyalur district, the PM said, “Today’s India prioritises its security. During Operation Sindoor, the world witnessed that if anyone threatens India’s sovereignty, the country will respond in their own language.”
“This operation has instilled a new sense of confidence and ignited a spirit of unity across the nation. There is no haven for India’s enemies and terrorists anywhere in the world”, PM Modi added.
The Prime Minister was addressing a special function marking the valedictory celebrations of the Aadi Thiruvathirai festival and the 1000th anniversary of Rajendra Chola’s maritime expedition to Southeast Asia.
The event was held at the Gangaikonda Cholisvaram temple, a UNESCO-recognised marvel built by Rajendra Chola I.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday announced that grand statues of Chola emperors Rajaraja Chola and Rajendra Chola will be erected in Tamil Nadu to honour their contributions to Indian history and culture.
Speaking at a special function at the historic Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple in Tamil Nadu’s Ariyalur district, PM Modi said that the Chola Empire represented a golden era of India, marked by achievements in architecture, governance, diplomacy, trade, and cultural integration.
“The Cholas established strong political and trade ties with Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Southeast Asia. It is a coincidence that I returned from the Maldives yesterday, and today I stand here in the land once ruled by these visionary kings,” he remarked.
Reflecting on India’s civilizational values, the Prime Minister said, “The Cholas pioneered democratic principles even before Britain. Their *kudavolai* system is considered one of the earliest forms of participatory democracy. They were also leaders in water management and temple architecture.”
PM Modi also praised Tamil Nadu’s deep Shaivite traditions and noted that more than 30 stolen antiquities retrieved by the Union government from across the globe belonged to Tamil Nadu.
“Shaivite poet Thirumoolar said, ‘Anbe Sivam’ — Love is God. If the world adopts this idea, many of today’s crises, such as instability, violence, and environmental destruction, can be resolved. India is taking this message to the world through ‘One World, One Family, One Future,’” he added.
Offering prayers at the feet of Lord Brihadeeswara, PM Modi said, “I prayed for the well-being of 140 crore Indians and the continued progress of the nation. I feel truly blessed to have this opportunity.”
Governor R.N. Ravi, Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu (representing Chief Minister M.K. Stalin), Union Minister of State L. Murugan, and VCK leader Thol. Thirumavalavan were among the dignitaries present at the event.
Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Omid Haeri Ardakani, Research scientist at Natural Resources Canada; Andjunct associate professor, University of Calgary
Hydrogen resources have long been a multi-billion-dollar market, even before recent interest in hydrogen as a contributor to the green energy transition. The environments and conditions that result in natural hydrogen accumulation occur globally. But one of the barriers to investment in many jurisdictions is regulatory, as hydrogen had not previously been considered as a resource.
Natural hydrogen can be used to decarbonize hard-to-abate but globally critical industries. Industries that use hydrogen include fuel refining (about 44 per cent), ammonia and fertilizer production for food sustainability (about 34 per cent), and steel manufacturing (about five per cent).
According to a recent British government policy briefing document, addressing this requires governments to include hydrogen as a listed natural resource. Future uses for hydrogen may include long-distance transportation and contributions to the decarbonization of the mining industry.
High carbon footprint
Most of the hydrogen used today is produced from fossil fuels. Because of this, hydrogen production contributes about 2.5 per cent of global carbon dioxide emissions. Efforts to produce low-carbon (green) hydrogen from renewable electricity and carbon capture and storage technologies remain expensive.
Developing strategies could determine whether hydrogen from any source is an economically viable resource. For natural hydrogen, exploration strategies have to be developed to find and extract natural deposits of hydrogen at an economically feasible cost. This also needs incentives that include natural hydrogen in exploration or production licenses.
An unusual coincidence sparked the current global interest in hydrogen. An accidental discovery of the small natural hydrogen gas field in Mali coincided with the publication of extensive historical data from the former Soviet Union, drawing attention to hydrogen’s immense potential as a clean power resource. Australia, France and the U.S. were among the first countries to re-investigate historical natural hydrogen.
Natural hydrogen and helium systems have similarities to petroleum systems, requiring a source rock, a migration pathway and accumulation in a reservoir. The infrastructure for natural hydrogen wells would be comparable to hydrocarbon wells, albeit with changes in well completion and drilling methods.
The footprint of a natural hydrogen production project would take up much less space to deliver the same amount of energy compared to a green hydrogen production facility, which requires solar or wind farms and electrolyzers.
Similarly, natural hydrogen projects do not need to draw on surface water resources, which are scarce in many parts of the world.
Some jurisdictions lack policies regulating hydrogen exploration. In others, regulation falls under existing mining or hydrocarbon policies. The lack of clear regulations in areas with high potential for natural hydrogen exploration — such as the U.S., Canada, India and parts of Africa and Europe — is a major obstacle for exploration.
An absence of regulation slows down exploration and land acquisition, and prevents the decision-making required for developing infrastructure. And critically, it means that no community consultations are undertaken to ensure the social acceptance essential for the success of such projects.
A project in South Australia demonstrates what legislation can accomplish. Once regulation of natural hydrogen exploration and capture was implemented, the government received dozens of applications from companies interested in natural hydrogen exploration.
The appetite for exploration is clearly there, but policy and regulatory solutions are required. New exploration projects will provide critical new data to understand natural hydrogen’s potential to provide green energy.
Omid Haeri Ardakani has received funding from Natural Resources Canada (NRCan).
Barbara Sherwood Lollar receives funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada and the Nuclear Waste Management Organization.
Chris Ballentine is founder of and owns shares in Snowfox Discovery Ltd, a hydrogen exploration company. He receives research funding from the Natural Environment Research Council (U.K.) and the National Science Foundation (U.S.), in a joint grant, as well as the Canadian Nuclear Waste Management Organization and the Canadian Institute For Advanced Research.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
UNITED NATIONS/WASHINGTON, July 27 (Xinhua) — United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday called on Cambodia and Thailand to agree on a ceasefire.
A. Guterres called on both sides to immediately cease hostilities and resolve all contentious issues through dialogue, seeking to find a lasting solution to the conflict, according to a statement from the UN chief’s deputy spokesman Farhan Haq.
“The UN Secretary-General condemns the tragic and unnecessary loss of life, injuries to civilians, and the destruction of homes and infrastructure on both sides,” said F. Hack. According to him, A. Guterres “remains ready to assist in any efforts to peacefully resolve the conflict.”
Trump said on Saturday on Truth Social that he had held talks with the Prime Minister of Cambodia and the acting Prime Minister of Thailand to urge them to immediately cease-fire. He said both Cambodia and Thailand have expressed their readiness for immediate peace and a cease-fire.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on Sunday reaffirmed readiness for an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire” between the armed forces of Cambodia and Thailand after a phone call with Donald Trump.
The Thai side also responded to Trump’s call on Sunday, saying that the country agreed in principle to a ceasefire, but would like to see sincere intentions from Cambodia.
Gunfire continued along the border between the two countries early Sunday morning, Thailand’s National Broadcasting Service reported, citing military sources. –0–
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today said it strongly opposes and disapproves of smears by government officials and politicians from the US, Canada and Australia, and by anti-China organisations, regarding its lawful acts to pursue individuals wanted in connection with national security offences who have absconded from Hong Kong.
Nineteen people suspected of involvement in a subversive organisation named the “Hong Kong Parliament”, in breach of Article 22 of the National Security Law (HKNSL), have been put on the city’s wanted list.
In a statement, the Hong Kong SAR Government explained that the HKNSL is applicable to Hong Kong permanent residents, and to incorporated or unincorporated bodies set up in Hong Kong, if such residents or bodies commit offences under the HKNSL outside the Hong Kong SAR. Additionally, it said, the HKNSL is applicable where offences under it are committed elsewhere against the Hong Kong SAR by individuals who are not Hong Kong permanent residents.
The Hong Kong SAR Government stressed that the Hong Kong Police Force therefore has a responsibility to pursue, in accordance with the law, people suspected of committing offences under the HKNSL outside of Hong Kong. Acts smearing Hong Kong’s work to safeguard national security are hypocritical and irresponsible, and will not win any public support, it added.
The statement iterated that both the HKNSL and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance clearly stipulate that human rights shall be respected and protected in safeguarding national security in the Hong Kong SAR, but clarified that the Hong Kong SAR Government will not condone criminal acts, and will not give up pursuing them those who commit them.
Emphasising that absconders should not think that they can evade criminal liability by absconding from Hong Kong, the Hong Kong SAR Government also remarked that no country or organisation should harbour criminals or try to exonerate absconders.
Any attempt by foreign countries or external forces to undermine Hong Kong’s situation will be doomed to fail, the Hong Kong SAR Government added, reiterating that it will continue to discharge its duty in safeguarding national security unwaveringly.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday participated in the valedictory celebrations of the Aadi Thiruvathirai festival, marking the birth anniversary of the illustrious Chola emperor Rajendra Chola I, at the historic Gangaikonda Cholapuram in Tamil Nadu’s Ariyalur district.
As part of the ceremony, the Prime Minister released a commemorative coin in honour of the Chola king, celebrating his contributions to Indian history, architecture, and maritime legacy.
Dressed in traditional Tamil attire — a white veshti (dhoti), half-sleeved shirt, and angavastram (upper cloth) — the Prime Minister offered prayers at the Gangaikonda Cholisvaram temple, also known as the Brihadisvara Temple, which was built by Rajendra Chola I as a replica of his father Rajaraja Chola I’s temple in Thanjavur.
The temple, maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India, is considered a masterpiece of Chola architecture and Saivite tradition.
Prime Minister Modi was welcomed with ‘poorna kumbham’ honours before entering the temple premises.
He performed ‘abhishekam’ for the presiding deity, Choleeswarar (Lord Shiva), using sanctified water brought from the Ganga in Varanasi.
The Prime Minister also offered ‘deeparadhana’ (worship with lamps) and witnessed Tamil ‘Shivaacharyas’ chanting Vedic hymns in Tamil as part of the traditional rituals.
The PM visited various shrines within the temple complex, including those dedicated to Goddess Durga, Parvati, and Lord Murugan, and spent considerable time admiring the intricate sculptures and bronze icons dating back to the Chola era.
The Prime Minister was particularly fascinated by the stone-carved statues, copper plates, and metal idols that reflect the richness of the Chola dynasty’s cultural and spiritual life.
During the ceremony, ‘odhuvars’ (temple singers) rendered sacred Saivite hymns, while renowned music composer Ilaiyaraaja performed compositions from ‘Thiruvasagam’, the devotional verses of Tamil saint-poet Manikkavasagar.
The event also marked the millennial celebration of Rajendra Chola’s legendary maritime expedition to Southeast Asia, which showcased the Chola empire’s naval prowess and far-reaching influence.
The Prime Minister also visited a thematic photo exhibition on ‘Saiva Siddhanta and Chola Temple Arts’ organised by the ASI and interacted with scholars about the legacy of Rajendra Chola I, expressing deep appreciation for the dynasty’s contributions to Indian history and architecture.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday shared his vision for making India a sporting superpower and praised the Indian contingent for winning nearly 600 medals at the recent World Police and Fire Games.
In the 124th episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi said that the government’s ‘Khelo Bharat Niti 2025’ has been widely appreciated.
“The goal of this policy is clear — to make India a sporting superpower,” he said, adding that startups related to sports, whether in sports management or manufacturing, will be supported in every possible way.
The PM said the policy gives special attention to villages, the underprivileged, and daughters. “Schools and colleges will now make sports a part of everyday life,” he said.
“Imagine how much strength the mission of self-reliance would gain when the youth of the country play with self-made rackets, bats, and balls. Friends, sports create team spirit. This is the path to fitness, self-confidence, and building a strong India. So, play a lot and blossom a lot,” he added.
Speaking about the biennial World Police and Fire Games, which concluded on July 6 in Birmingham, Alabama, PM Modi said India’s uniformed heroes are making headlines not just through their service, but also in sports.
“This time, the tournament was held in America, and India created history. We won close to 600 medals and ranked among the top three out of 71 countries. The hard work of our uniformed personnel, who serve the country day and night, has paid off. These friends of ours are now raising the tricolour in the sports arena as well. I congratulate all the players and the coaching team,” he said.
The Prime Minister also tested the listeners’ knowledge by asking, “Do you know which is the biggest sporting event after the Olympics? The answer is — the World Police and Fire Games… a sports tournament between policemen, firefighters, and security personnel from all over the world.”
He added, “By the way, it will also interest you to know that in 2029, these games will be held in India. Players from across the world will come to our country. We will showcase India’s hospitality and introduce them to our sports culture.”
The government plans to host the event in Gujarat’s Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, and Ekta Nagar.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at Gangaikonda Cholapuram in Tamil Nadu’s Ariyalur district on Sunday to participate in the valedictory celebrations of the Aadi Thiruvathirai festival, marking the birth anniversary of the legendary Chola emperor Rajendra Chola I.
The Prime Minister is scheduled to release a commemorative coin in honour of the emperor during the event.
PM Modi flew in from Tiruchi International Airport by helicopter and landed on a specially prepared helipad on the dry bed of the historic Cholagangam, also known as Ponneri — a vast man-made lake built by Rajendra Chola I over a thousand years ago to supply water to the ancient Chola capital.
From the helipad, the Prime Minister proceeded in a grand roadshow to the Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram.
Large crowds gathered on either side of the route, waving flags and chanting slogans to welcome him. The entire village wore a festive look, with the temple town beautifully decorated with flowers, traditional banners, and Chola-era motifs.
Gangaikonda Cholapuram, meaning “The city of the Chola who conquered the Ganges,” was founded by Rajendra Chola I following his victorious military expedition to the Gangetic plains.
The emperor established this as his new capital, building the grand Brihadisvara Temple and the Cholagangam lake as symbols of his might and vision.
The release of the commemorative coin comes in response to a request from R. Komagan, Chairman of the Gangaikondacholapuram Development Council Trust. The coin is intended to honour the emperor’s contributions to Indian history — particularly his achievements in governance, architecture, and overseas expeditions, which extended Chola influence across Southeast Asia.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit also highlights the government’s efforts to celebrate India’s ancient civilisational heritage and regional pride.
The choice of Gangaikonda Cholapuram — a site of immense historical and architectural significance — underscores the Central government’s commitment to preserving and promoting Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural legacy.
The event is expected to further boost tourism and historical awareness of the Chola dynasty’s legacy, especially among the younger generation.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
LANZHOU, July 27 (Xinhua) — The delivery time of fresh-cut roses from greenhouses in Linxia City, Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China’s Gansu Province, to consumers’ flower vases in Almaty, Kazakhstan, is the shortest possible time – 48 hours from the moment the fragrant produce is “harvested.” In recent years, fresh-cut roses from northwest China have continued to expand their geographic reach from the Chinese market to overseas markets.
Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, with an average altitude of 2,000 meters, has become a high-quality rose growing area due to its abundant sunshine and dry climate.
In the smart greenhouses at the farm of Inun International Flower Port (hereinafter referred to as Inun) in Linxia, roses bloom all year round. This was made possible by modern technological equipment, including automatic ventilation and temperature control systems, a system with water and fertilizer integration technology for irrigation, and disinfection, which contributes to stable and efficient flower cultivation throughout the year.
Currently, this company grows 10 varieties of roses with a color palette of 8 different shades. The daily production volume reaches 180 thousand pieces, and the annual production volume of flower products exceeds 60 million pieces. These freshly cut roses are supplied both to major cities in China and abroad.
Gansu Hauzhizhou Economic and Trade Co., Ltd. /”Flower Kingdom”/ is engaged in the sale of freshly cut roses grown on the above-mentioned farm. According to Li Zetian, deputy general manager of Hauzhizhou, the rose products from the company’s Yinong farm are of high quality. In particular, these roses last a long time in a vase, remaining fresh for 3-5 days longer than ordinary flowers. Such quality makes “Linxia roses” competitive in the international market.
“During the market research as part of the Belt and Road Initiative, we found that there is a sharp increase in demand for Chinese flowers in Kazakhstan. This opens up broad prospects for cooperation,” said Li Zetian. According to him, the company has sources of stable supplies of fresh flowers and can effectively use the advantages of Almaty in the areas of customs clearance efficiency, warehousing management and regional logistics network.
According to the latest data from Huazhizhou, over 1.5 million fresh-cut roses were exported to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and other Central Asian countries in the first half of this year.
According to Li Zetian, the company has already formed a preliminary customer base, and in the second ten days of July this year, an overseas warehouse was established in Almaty in cooperation with Kazakhstani partners. In addition, the company is also gradually promoting the establishment of a branch in Almaty in order to cover not only the countries of Central Asia, but also to expand the sales market for its products by entering the market of Russia and other Eastern European countries. The sales model of “direct deliveries from the Chinese base and distribution through an overseas warehouse” allows “roses from Linxia” to be delivered directly to overseas consumers.
According to Long Shangyi, an official with the Linxia City Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, local agricultural departments regularly provide enterprises with technical advice on growing flowers and plants. “We hope that cross-border cooperation will become a platform for deepening the exchange between Chinese flower culture and the horticultural experience of Central Asian countries,” he emphasized. -0-
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
NEW DELHI, July 27 (Xinhua) — At least six people were killed and 29 others injured in a stampede at a Hindu temple in India’s northern Uttarakhand state on Sunday, local police said.
The incident took place at the Mansa Devi temple in Haridwar district, located 53 km south of Uttarakhand’s capital Dehradun.
One of the devotees apparently received an electric shock on the stairs located 100 meters from the temple, causing panic among others, said local police spokesman Pramendra Singh Dobal. He said an investigation into the incident was underway.
Police and the National Emergency Response Force have been dispatched to the scene to carry out rescue operations. The injured have been taken to hospitals.
According to police, a huge crowd had gathered at the temple before the incident. As a result, the death toll is likely to rise.
Haridwar is one of the major pilgrimage centres in Hinduism. –0–
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday brought national attention to an environmental awareness campaign against forest fires undertaken by the ‘Radhakrishna Sankirtan Mandali’, a group of devotional singers from Odisha’s Keonjhar district who are spreading the message of conservation through traditional songs and music.
The Prime Minister highlighted the group’s unique initiative during the 124th episode of his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’.
“The most beautiful glimpse of India’s diversity is found in our folk songs and traditions, and our bhajans and kirtans are a part of this. But have you ever heard of people being made aware of forest fires through kirtans? You may not believe it, but something amazing is happening in Keonjhar district of Odisha. There is a group named Radhakrishna Sankirtan Mandali,” PM Modi said.
He also praised the leadership of Pramila Pradhan, who spearheaded this unique and creative effort to combat forest fires in her locality.
“Along with devotion, today, this group is also chanting the mantra of environmental protection. The inspiration behind this initiative is Pramila Pradhan ji. To protect the forest and the environment, she has added new lyrics and new messages to traditional songs. Her troupe went from village to village. Through songs, people were made to understand how much damage forest fires cause,” the PM added.
During his address, PM Modi also spoke about National Handloom Day, observed every year on August 7 to commemorate the Swadeshi Movement, which began on August 7, 1905. He noted that this year marks 10 years of observing National Handloom Day.
While highlighting various efforts across the country to revive traditional handlooms and the revolution in the textile sector over the last decade, the Prime Minister praised tribal women from Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district for reviving the traditional Santhali saree.
“There is a similar success story in Mayurbhanj, Odisha. Here, more than 650 tribal women have revived the Santhali saree. Now these women are earning thousands of rupees every month. They are not just making cloth, but also carving their own identity,” he said.
PM Modi also cited the inspiring example of Naveen Kumar from Nalanda, Bihar, whose family has been involved in handloom weaving for generations.
