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Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ5: Promoting development of stablecoins

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ5: Promoting development of stablecoins 
    Question:
     
         The Stablecoins Bill, passed in May this year, aims to establish a licensing and regulatory regime for fiat-referenced stablecoins issuers in Hong Kong. There are views that this marks a milestone in the global development of Web3 and represents an important step in Hong Kong’s journey to becoming an international Web3 hub. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of ways to promote the expansion of stablecoin use cases, including fostering connections between stablecoin issuers and application scenarios on the Mainland, so as to facilitate the transition of stablecoins from regulatory compliance to establishment of business ecosystems;
     
    (2) how the Government will leverage the implementation of the Stablecoins Ordinance to promote the openness and flexibility of Hong Kong’s stablecoin laws and regulations internationally, while also synergising with Hong Kong’s advantages under “one country, two systems” as well as its status as an international financial centre which is conducive to stablecoin development, to attract global compliant stablecoin issuers and large-scale international financial institutions to issue stablecoins and establish a presence in Hong Kong; and
     
    (3) whether it will make preparations for the development of offshore Renminbi (RMB) stablecoins, including seeking support from the Central Authorities so as to establish the creditworthiness of Hong Kong’s offshore RMB stablecoins?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         In May this year, the Legislative Council passed the Stablecoins Bill, establishing a licensing regime for issuers of fiat-referenced stablecoins (FRS) in Hong Kong. The ordinance further strengthens the regulatory framework for digital asset activities in Hong Kong to safeguard monetary and financial stability, as well as consolidates and enhances Hong Kong’s position as an international financial centre. The Stablecoins Ordinance will come into effect on August 1 this year, at which the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) will begin accepting licence applications. Currently, the HKMA is conducting a public consultation on the detailed guidelines for implementing the Ordinance with a view to finalising these guidelines as soon as practicable.
     
         Having consulted the HKMA, my reply to the various parts of the question is as follows:
     
    (1) To harness the potential of stablecoins, the Government and regulators will provide a conducive environment and necessary regulatory guidance to enable licensed stablecoin issuers in Hong Kong to explore and implement different stablecoin use cases, with a view to addressing real-world pain points in economic activities, putting forward regulatory priorities for potential risks, and promoting the sustainable development of the market.
     
         To this end, the HKMA launched the stablecoin issuer sandbox early last year to allow the HKMA to understand the business models of institutions planning to issue FRS in Hong Kong, and to communicate regulatory expectations and provide guidance, while also fostering the development of practical use cases for stablecoins. With both local and global backgrounds, the participating institutions come from a wide spectrum of industries, including cross-border e-commerce and logistics, innovation and technology, banking and telecommunications services. The sandbox enables participants to conduct testing on their proposed use cases and operations within a limited scope and in a risk-controlled environment. Participation in the sandbox is not a prerequisite for licence application in the future.
     
         Furthermore, the Government recently issued the Policy Statement 2.0 on the Development of Digital Assets in Hong Kong. It covers the policy direction for advancing digital asset use cases and cross-sectoral collaboration, and articulates the exploration of stablecoins as a payment tool. To demonstrate the Government’s support and to take the lead, in the Policy Statement 2.0 the Government invites proposals from market participants on how the Government may test the usage of licensed stablecoins, for example in enhancing efficiency of Government payments.
     
         Alongside market and use case development, it is also important to ensure compliance in business operation. Stablecoin issuers must demonstrate adequate setup, capabilities and experience across a range of areas, including management and security of reserve assets, effective price stabilisation mechanisms, comprehensive and feasible redemption policies, as well as capabilities in technological security, risk management, and anti-money laundering. Where the use cases of stablecoins involve cross-border activities, applicants are also expected to develop a comprehensive compliance plan, demonstrate their financial strength, and ensure that they and their business partners have the necessary regulatory approvals and will comply with applicable regulations in Hong Kong and other jurisdictions, when they carry out activities related to their stablecoins.
     
    (2) The Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (FSTB) and the HKMA have been proactively communicating with stakeholders in Hong Kong and other jurisdictions on the regulation and development of stablecoins, including potential stablecoin issuers, market participants, and professional service providers.
     
         Along with the upcoming implementation of the Stablecoins Ordinance, we will further enhance our engagement with various stakeholders across the globe to elaborate on Hong Kong’s regulatory framework for stablecoin issuers, and highlight the balanced approach of our framework in managing risks while promoting industry development, such as adopting a more open model that allows licensed issuers to peg their stablecoins to different fiat currencies for the purpose of stablecoin issuance.
     
         We will also continue to promote Hong Kong’s unique advantages as an international financial centre, including our close connection with the international markets, mature financial market and infrastructure, comprehensive legal system, and a wealth of professional talents, through overseas visits and on-going work exchanges. The Government’s recent promulgation of the Policy Statement 2.0 also demonstrates to the digital asset and related sectors around the world our steadfast commitment and policy direction to establish Hong Kong as a global digital asset hub.
     
    (3) The licensing regime for stablecoin issuers in Hong Kong is flexible and open, allowing licensed issuers to peg their stablecoins to different fiat currencies for the purpose of stablecoin issuance. We welcome institutions from around the world to apply for licence based on their actual business needs. We will review licence applications with a set of common standards, such as the issuer’s compliance with regulatory requirements in the areas of reserve asset management, stabilisation mechanisms, redemption arrangements and internal control measures. The Government and financial regulators will closely monitor regulatory developments and maintain communications with regulatory authorities in different jurisdictions.
     
         The digital asset market is developing and evolving rapidly. Guided by the principle of “same activity, same risks, same regulation” and adopting a risk-based approach, the Government will continue to enhance and establish a regulatory regime that reflects local circumstances and aligns with international standards and practices, with a view to promoting the healthy, responsible and sustainable development of the digital asset market in Hong Kong, thereby further strengthening Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre.
     
         Thank you, President.
    Issued at HKT 14:54

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ5: Promoting development of stablecoins

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ5: Promoting development of stablecoins 
    Question:
     
         The Stablecoins Bill, passed in May this year, aims to establish a licensing and regulatory regime for fiat-referenced stablecoins issuers in Hong Kong. There are views that this marks a milestone in the global development of Web3 and represents an important step in Hong Kong’s journey to becoming an international Web3 hub. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of ways to promote the expansion of stablecoin use cases, including fostering connections between stablecoin issuers and application scenarios on the Mainland, so as to facilitate the transition of stablecoins from regulatory compliance to establishment of business ecosystems;
     
    (2) how the Government will leverage the implementation of the Stablecoins Ordinance to promote the openness and flexibility of Hong Kong’s stablecoin laws and regulations internationally, while also synergising with Hong Kong’s advantages under “one country, two systems” as well as its status as an international financial centre which is conducive to stablecoin development, to attract global compliant stablecoin issuers and large-scale international financial institutions to issue stablecoins and establish a presence in Hong Kong; and
     
    (3) whether it will make preparations for the development of offshore Renminbi (RMB) stablecoins, including seeking support from the Central Authorities so as to establish the creditworthiness of Hong Kong’s offshore RMB stablecoins?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         In May this year, the Legislative Council passed the Stablecoins Bill, establishing a licensing regime for issuers of fiat-referenced stablecoins (FRS) in Hong Kong. The ordinance further strengthens the regulatory framework for digital asset activities in Hong Kong to safeguard monetary and financial stability, as well as consolidates and enhances Hong Kong’s position as an international financial centre. The Stablecoins Ordinance will come into effect on August 1 this year, at which the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) will begin accepting licence applications. Currently, the HKMA is conducting a public consultation on the detailed guidelines for implementing the Ordinance with a view to finalising these guidelines as soon as practicable.
     
         Having consulted the HKMA, my reply to the various parts of the question is as follows:
     
    (1) To harness the potential of stablecoins, the Government and regulators will provide a conducive environment and necessary regulatory guidance to enable licensed stablecoin issuers in Hong Kong to explore and implement different stablecoin use cases, with a view to addressing real-world pain points in economic activities, putting forward regulatory priorities for potential risks, and promoting the sustainable development of the market.
     
         To this end, the HKMA launched the stablecoin issuer sandbox early last year to allow the HKMA to understand the business models of institutions planning to issue FRS in Hong Kong, and to communicate regulatory expectations and provide guidance, while also fostering the development of practical use cases for stablecoins. With both local and global backgrounds, the participating institutions come from a wide spectrum of industries, including cross-border e-commerce and logistics, innovation and technology, banking and telecommunications services. The sandbox enables participants to conduct testing on their proposed use cases and operations within a limited scope and in a risk-controlled environment. Participation in the sandbox is not a prerequisite for licence application in the future.
     
         Furthermore, the Government recently issued the Policy Statement 2.0 on the Development of Digital Assets in Hong Kong. It covers the policy direction for advancing digital asset use cases and cross-sectoral collaboration, and articulates the exploration of stablecoins as a payment tool. To demonstrate the Government’s support and to take the lead, in the Policy Statement 2.0 the Government invites proposals from market participants on how the Government may test the usage of licensed stablecoins, for example in enhancing efficiency of Government payments.
     
         Alongside market and use case development, it is also important to ensure compliance in business operation. Stablecoin issuers must demonstrate adequate setup, capabilities and experience across a range of areas, including management and security of reserve assets, effective price stabilisation mechanisms, comprehensive and feasible redemption policies, as well as capabilities in technological security, risk management, and anti-money laundering. Where the use cases of stablecoins involve cross-border activities, applicants are also expected to develop a comprehensive compliance plan, demonstrate their financial strength, and ensure that they and their business partners have the necessary regulatory approvals and will comply with applicable regulations in Hong Kong and other jurisdictions, when they carry out activities related to their stablecoins.
     
    (2) The Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (FSTB) and the HKMA have been proactively communicating with stakeholders in Hong Kong and other jurisdictions on the regulation and development of stablecoins, including potential stablecoin issuers, market participants, and professional service providers.
     
         Along with the upcoming implementation of the Stablecoins Ordinance, we will further enhance our engagement with various stakeholders across the globe to elaborate on Hong Kong’s regulatory framework for stablecoin issuers, and highlight the balanced approach of our framework in managing risks while promoting industry development, such as adopting a more open model that allows licensed issuers to peg their stablecoins to different fiat currencies for the purpose of stablecoin issuance.
     
         We will also continue to promote Hong Kong’s unique advantages as an international financial centre, including our close connection with the international markets, mature financial market and infrastructure, comprehensive legal system, and a wealth of professional talents, through overseas visits and on-going work exchanges. The Government’s recent promulgation of the Policy Statement 2.0 also demonstrates to the digital asset and related sectors around the world our steadfast commitment and policy direction to establish Hong Kong as a global digital asset hub.
     
    (3) The licensing regime for stablecoin issuers in Hong Kong is flexible and open, allowing licensed issuers to peg their stablecoins to different fiat currencies for the purpose of stablecoin issuance. We welcome institutions from around the world to apply for licence based on their actual business needs. We will review licence applications with a set of common standards, such as the issuer’s compliance with regulatory requirements in the areas of reserve asset management, stabilisation mechanisms, redemption arrangements and internal control measures. The Government and financial regulators will closely monitor regulatory developments and maintain communications with regulatory authorities in different jurisdictions.
     
         The digital asset market is developing and evolving rapidly. Guided by the principle of “same activity, same risks, same regulation” and adopting a risk-based approach, the Government will continue to enhance and establish a regulatory regime that reflects local circumstances and aligns with international standards and practices, with a view to promoting the healthy, responsible and sustainable development of the digital asset market in Hong Kong, thereby further strengthening Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre.
     
         Thank you, President.
    Issued at HKT 14:54

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ17: Participation in the affairs of law enforcement-related international organisations

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Chan Chun-ying and a written reply by the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, in the Legislative Council today (July 2):

    Question:

         This year’s Report on the Work of the Government of the country mentions for the first time that Hong Kong must deepen international exchanges and co-operation. There are views pointing out that international organisations are important platforms for exchanges and co-operation among countries and regions. Regarding Hong Kong’s participation in the affairs of law enforcement-related international organisations, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) as the Independent Commission Against Corruption has indicated that it has formed a tripartite partnership with the International Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities and the Hong Kong International Academy Against Corruption, actively contributing to the advancement of the global anti-corruption cause through, among other means, exchanges and sharing of experience with other countries, as well as organising anti-corruption training programmes, whether, in addition to the aforesaid activities, the Government will consider expanding the scale of such activities by taking the lead in organising in Hong Kong larger-scale, integrated international events themed on anti-corruption; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and

    (2) given that the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department, in its capacity as the World Customs Organization (WCO) Vice-Chair for the Asia/Pacific (A/P) Region, successfully organised the 26th WCO A/P Regional Heads of Customs Administrations Conference in May this year, whether, in addition to actively organising the aforesaid representative event, the Government will consider taking the opportunity of its involvement in the affairs of this international organisation to invite personnel from customs-related agencies of various countries to visit Hong Kong more frequently, so as to foster exchanges and co-operation with other regions?

    Reply:

    President,

         In the Report on the Work of the Government delivered by the Premier of the State Council at the third session of the 14th National People’s Congress on March 5, 2025, “support Hong Kong and Macao in growing their economies, improving the lives of their people, and deepening international exchanges and co-operation” was mentioned. The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region was most encouraged, and will better leverage the institutional strengths of “one country, two systems” and Hong Kong’s unique and internationalised advantages to open up new development opportunities, enhance Hong Kong’s international competitiveness, deepen international exchanges and co-operation, and strengthen Hong Kong’s role as a bridge linking the Mainland and global markets. As international organisations are important platforms for exchanges and co-operation among countries and regions, Hong Kong’s law enforcement agencies have deepened international exchanges and co-operation in recent years by participating in various international organisations, and even taking up leadership role, as well as hosting major international conferences, in a bid to contribute to the Belt and Road Initiative, and to tell the world the good stories of our country and Hong Kong.

         In consultation with the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), the reply to the various parts of the question raised by the Hon Chan Chun-ying is as follows:

    (1) The ICAC actively supports the national development strategy and the Belt and Road Initiative and reinforces the tripartite partnership formed with the Hong Kong International Academy Against Corruption (HKIAAC) and the International Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities (IAACA), deepening international exchanges and co-operation in the global fight against corruption. At the same time, the ICAC has forged strategic partnerships through memoranda of understanding with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and anti-corruption agencies in various Belt and Road countries. These partnerships facilitate the exchanges of anti-corruption expertise and enhance professional capacity building worldwide, supporting the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC). The ICAC’s efforts have garnered widespread international recognition.

         Under the tripartite partnership, the ICAC synergises its over 50 years of anti-corruption experience with the HKIAAC’s training platform and the IAACA’s extensive global network. Through a diversity of collaborative approaches, including organising tailored training programmes, sharing practical experiences, and undertaking bilateral or multilateral collaborations, the ICAC provides tailored support to overseas anti-corruption agencies, promoting Hong Kong’s anti-corruption expertise worldwide.

         The ICAC organises large-scale international events to exchange experiences with global anti-corruption partners while showcasing Hong Kong’s robust legal system and anti-corruption achievements. For instance, the ICAC and the IAACA co-hosted the 8th ICAC Symposium in Hong Kong in May 2024, gathering over 500 delegates from more than 180 anti-corruption and related organisations across nearly 60 jurisdictions. The Symposium doubled as the IAACA’s 11th Annual Conference, where the IAACA adopted the “Hong Kong Declaration on Strengthening International Cooperation in Preventing and Fighting Corruption”, which is the first-ever anti-corruption declaration named after Hong Kong. The declaration called on anti-corruption agencies worldwide to uphold the principles of the UNCAC and unite in their mission against corruption. Following the Symposium, the HKIAAC and the IAACA jointly organised an anti-corruption training course, including a study tour to Mainland China for around 50 anti-corruption practitioners from around the world, fostering deeper practical exchanges.

         To nurture anti-corruption awareness and drive innovation among youth in Asia, advance digital corruption prevention, and promote transnational collaboration, the ICAC, in partnership with the IAACA and the UNODC, will host the “Coding4Integrity Asian Youth Anti-Corruption Hackathon” in Hong Kong this September. The event will engage young participants from 15 Asian countries/territories, including Hong Kong, Macao, and various Belt and Road countries. Arrangements will be made for participants to visit Mainland China to learn about our country’s cutting-edge technological advancements and anti-corruption efforts. The winning team will also have the opportunity to present the solution at an event held in the margins of the 11th Session of the Conference of the States Parties to the UNCAC in Doha, Qatar, this December.

         The ICAC will continue to amplify the synergy of the tripartite partnership and expand collaboration with international partners. Through multifaceted exchanges and interactions, the ICAC will deepen co-operation in the anti-corruption field, and further solidify Hong Kong’s position as an international anti-corruption hub.

    (2) Since July 2024, the Customs and Excise Department (C&ED) representing Hong Kong, China, has taken up the role of World Customs Organization (WCO) Vice-Chairperson for the Asia/Pacific Region (APVC) again for a term of two years until June 2026. In May this year, the C&ED, in its capacity as the WCO APVC, successfully hosted the 26th WCO Asia/Pacific Regional Heads of Customs Administrations (RHCA) Conference. The Conference was the highest-level meeting held annually in the Asia/Pacific region, which gathered around 120 heads of customs organisations and senior officials from the region, along with delegates from the WCO’s regional entities.

         Hosting the RHCA Conference bore strategic significance for Hong Kong. During the Conference, the C&ED led discussions on the development of an innovative blockchain-based cross-validation platform. This platform will help speed up the logistic, economic and trade development in Hong Kong and the Asia/Pacific region. It will also facilitate customs administrations, logistics stakeholders, finance and capital chains, trade agreement processes and other related industries within the Asia/Pacific region to further integrate and collaborate. Taking the opportunity of hosting the Conference, the C&ED introduced Hong Kong’s key attractions and local food delicacies during the event, and showcased Hong Kong’s image as an international tourist city to the delegates, including the arrangement of a visit to the Victoria Harbour. These activities not only allowed the heads of customs organisations and senior officials from the Asia/Pacific region to personally experience Hong Kong’s distinctive charm and dynamic vibrancy as an international metropolis, but also enhanced their understanding of the city.

         Hosting the RHCA Conference is one of the key responsibilities of the C&ED serving as the WCO APVC. The C&ED has organised a number of other international or regional conferences, workshops, joint enforcement operations and capacity building programmes. From 2024 to the first half of 2025, the C&ED hosted 12 international or regional activities, covering areas such as intelligence exchange, enforcement against illicit cigarettes, canine enforcement, Authorised Economic Operators, data strategies and anti-money laundering, which gathered representatives from around the world to communicate and exchange views on relevant issues. In the future, the C&ED will organise meetings and co-operation programmes on Smart Customs, drug enforcement, and the protection of the environment and wildlife, with a view to fostering connections among law enforcement agencies in the Asia/Pacific region, and promote trade facilitation measures and development in the region. The C&ED will continue to take this opportunity to extend invitations to various customs administrations to come to Hong Kong for the events.

         Apart from actively organising the abovementioned significant events, the C&ED has leveraged its involvement in the WCO affairs to invite representatives from various customs administrations to visit Hong Kong. These efforts aim to foster greater exchange and co-operation with other regions. Since assuming the role of the WCO APVC, the C&ED has received delegations from 21 customs administrations. Beyond discussions on specific customs matters and exchanges, these visits have also enhanced delegates’ understanding of Hong Kong, with a view to strengthening future connections and collaboration, and laying a strong foundation for combating crime and facilitating trade.

         Looking ahead, the C&ED will be more proactive and seek to make greater impact as a “promoter” and “facilitator” in the WCO through telling the good stories of Hong Kong, upholding multilateralism, advancing international co-operation, and enhancing regional enforcement effectiveness.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ17: Participation in the affairs of law enforcement-related international organisations

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Chan Chun-ying and a written reply by the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, in the Legislative Council today (July 2):

    Question:

         This year’s Report on the Work of the Government of the country mentions for the first time that Hong Kong must deepen international exchanges and co-operation. There are views pointing out that international organisations are important platforms for exchanges and co-operation among countries and regions. Regarding Hong Kong’s participation in the affairs of law enforcement-related international organisations, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) as the Independent Commission Against Corruption has indicated that it has formed a tripartite partnership with the International Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities and the Hong Kong International Academy Against Corruption, actively contributing to the advancement of the global anti-corruption cause through, among other means, exchanges and sharing of experience with other countries, as well as organising anti-corruption training programmes, whether, in addition to the aforesaid activities, the Government will consider expanding the scale of such activities by taking the lead in organising in Hong Kong larger-scale, integrated international events themed on anti-corruption; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and

    (2) given that the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department, in its capacity as the World Customs Organization (WCO) Vice-Chair for the Asia/Pacific (A/P) Region, successfully organised the 26th WCO A/P Regional Heads of Customs Administrations Conference in May this year, whether, in addition to actively organising the aforesaid representative event, the Government will consider taking the opportunity of its involvement in the affairs of this international organisation to invite personnel from customs-related agencies of various countries to visit Hong Kong more frequently, so as to foster exchanges and co-operation with other regions?

    Reply:

    President,

         In the Report on the Work of the Government delivered by the Premier of the State Council at the third session of the 14th National People’s Congress on March 5, 2025, “support Hong Kong and Macao in growing their economies, improving the lives of their people, and deepening international exchanges and co-operation” was mentioned. The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region was most encouraged, and will better leverage the institutional strengths of “one country, two systems” and Hong Kong’s unique and internationalised advantages to open up new development opportunities, enhance Hong Kong’s international competitiveness, deepen international exchanges and co-operation, and strengthen Hong Kong’s role as a bridge linking the Mainland and global markets. As international organisations are important platforms for exchanges and co-operation among countries and regions, Hong Kong’s law enforcement agencies have deepened international exchanges and co-operation in recent years by participating in various international organisations, and even taking up leadership role, as well as hosting major international conferences, in a bid to contribute to the Belt and Road Initiative, and to tell the world the good stories of our country and Hong Kong.

         In consultation with the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), the reply to the various parts of the question raised by the Hon Chan Chun-ying is as follows:

    (1) The ICAC actively supports the national development strategy and the Belt and Road Initiative and reinforces the tripartite partnership formed with the Hong Kong International Academy Against Corruption (HKIAAC) and the International Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities (IAACA), deepening international exchanges and co-operation in the global fight against corruption. At the same time, the ICAC has forged strategic partnerships through memoranda of understanding with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and anti-corruption agencies in various Belt and Road countries. These partnerships facilitate the exchanges of anti-corruption expertise and enhance professional capacity building worldwide, supporting the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC). The ICAC’s efforts have garnered widespread international recognition.

         Under the tripartite partnership, the ICAC synergises its over 50 years of anti-corruption experience with the HKIAAC’s training platform and the IAACA’s extensive global network. Through a diversity of collaborative approaches, including organising tailored training programmes, sharing practical experiences, and undertaking bilateral or multilateral collaborations, the ICAC provides tailored support to overseas anti-corruption agencies, promoting Hong Kong’s anti-corruption expertise worldwide.

         The ICAC organises large-scale international events to exchange experiences with global anti-corruption partners while showcasing Hong Kong’s robust legal system and anti-corruption achievements. For instance, the ICAC and the IAACA co-hosted the 8th ICAC Symposium in Hong Kong in May 2024, gathering over 500 delegates from more than 180 anti-corruption and related organisations across nearly 60 jurisdictions. The Symposium doubled as the IAACA’s 11th Annual Conference, where the IAACA adopted the “Hong Kong Declaration on Strengthening International Cooperation in Preventing and Fighting Corruption”, which is the first-ever anti-corruption declaration named after Hong Kong. The declaration called on anti-corruption agencies worldwide to uphold the principles of the UNCAC and unite in their mission against corruption. Following the Symposium, the HKIAAC and the IAACA jointly organised an anti-corruption training course, including a study tour to Mainland China for around 50 anti-corruption practitioners from around the world, fostering deeper practical exchanges.

         To nurture anti-corruption awareness and drive innovation among youth in Asia, advance digital corruption prevention, and promote transnational collaboration, the ICAC, in partnership with the IAACA and the UNODC, will host the “Coding4Integrity Asian Youth Anti-Corruption Hackathon” in Hong Kong this September. The event will engage young participants from 15 Asian countries/territories, including Hong Kong, Macao, and various Belt and Road countries. Arrangements will be made for participants to visit Mainland China to learn about our country’s cutting-edge technological advancements and anti-corruption efforts. The winning team will also have the opportunity to present the solution at an event held in the margins of the 11th Session of the Conference of the States Parties to the UNCAC in Doha, Qatar, this December.

         The ICAC will continue to amplify the synergy of the tripartite partnership and expand collaboration with international partners. Through multifaceted exchanges and interactions, the ICAC will deepen co-operation in the anti-corruption field, and further solidify Hong Kong’s position as an international anti-corruption hub.

    (2) Since July 2024, the Customs and Excise Department (C&ED) representing Hong Kong, China, has taken up the role of World Customs Organization (WCO) Vice-Chairperson for the Asia/Pacific Region (APVC) again for a term of two years until June 2026. In May this year, the C&ED, in its capacity as the WCO APVC, successfully hosted the 26th WCO Asia/Pacific Regional Heads of Customs Administrations (RHCA) Conference. The Conference was the highest-level meeting held annually in the Asia/Pacific region, which gathered around 120 heads of customs organisations and senior officials from the region, along with delegates from the WCO’s regional entities.

         Hosting the RHCA Conference bore strategic significance for Hong Kong. During the Conference, the C&ED led discussions on the development of an innovative blockchain-based cross-validation platform. This platform will help speed up the logistic, economic and trade development in Hong Kong and the Asia/Pacific region. It will also facilitate customs administrations, logistics stakeholders, finance and capital chains, trade agreement processes and other related industries within the Asia/Pacific region to further integrate and collaborate. Taking the opportunity of hosting the Conference, the C&ED introduced Hong Kong’s key attractions and local food delicacies during the event, and showcased Hong Kong’s image as an international tourist city to the delegates, including the arrangement of a visit to the Victoria Harbour. These activities not only allowed the heads of customs organisations and senior officials from the Asia/Pacific region to personally experience Hong Kong’s distinctive charm and dynamic vibrancy as an international metropolis, but also enhanced their understanding of the city.

         Hosting the RHCA Conference is one of the key responsibilities of the C&ED serving as the WCO APVC. The C&ED has organised a number of other international or regional conferences, workshops, joint enforcement operations and capacity building programmes. From 2024 to the first half of 2025, the C&ED hosted 12 international or regional activities, covering areas such as intelligence exchange, enforcement against illicit cigarettes, canine enforcement, Authorised Economic Operators, data strategies and anti-money laundering, which gathered representatives from around the world to communicate and exchange views on relevant issues. In the future, the C&ED will organise meetings and co-operation programmes on Smart Customs, drug enforcement, and the protection of the environment and wildlife, with a view to fostering connections among law enforcement agencies in the Asia/Pacific region, and promote trade facilitation measures and development in the region. The C&ED will continue to take this opportunity to extend invitations to various customs administrations to come to Hong Kong for the events.

         Apart from actively organising the abovementioned significant events, the C&ED has leveraged its involvement in the WCO affairs to invite representatives from various customs administrations to visit Hong Kong. These efforts aim to foster greater exchange and co-operation with other regions. Since assuming the role of the WCO APVC, the C&ED has received delegations from 21 customs administrations. Beyond discussions on specific customs matters and exchanges, these visits have also enhanced delegates’ understanding of Hong Kong, with a view to strengthening future connections and collaboration, and laying a strong foundation for combating crime and facilitating trade.

         Looking ahead, the C&ED will be more proactive and seek to make greater impact as a “promoter” and “facilitator” in the WCO through telling the good stories of Hong Kong, upholding multilateralism, advancing international co-operation, and enhancing regional enforcement effectiveness.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Warm welcome for first batch of Amarnath Yatra pilgrims in Kashmir

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Locals in Kashmir welcomed the first batch of Amarnath Yatra pilgrims with warmth and goodwill on Wednesday as they arrived in the Valley through the Navyug Tunnel.

    People from various sections of society, including members of civil society, traders, and residents of Anantnag and Kulgam districts, gathered with garlands and placards to greet the Yatris.

    The spontaneous gesture highlighted the enduring spirit of communal harmony in Kashmir and the region’s longstanding support for the annual pilgrimage.

    Earlier in the day, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the first batch of pilgrims from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu. Chanting slogans of ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’, ‘Bum Bum Bhole’ and ‘Har Har Mahadev’, enthusiastic devotees set out in two escorted convoys towards the Pahalgam and Baltal base camps.

    The Lt Governor, who also chairs the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), was accompanied by senior civil and police officials during the flag-off ceremony.

    According to officials, a total of 5,892 pilgrims left Jammu for the Valley on Wednesday. Of these, 3,403 are bound for the Nunwan base camp at Pahalgam, while 2,489 are heading to Baltal.

    This year’s Yatra is being held under tight security arrangements, with an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces deployed following the April Pahalgam terror attack.

    The 36-day pilgrimage will formally commence on Thursday and conclude on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    Pilgrims undertake the journey to the holy cave shrine located at an altitude of 3,888 metres either through the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route. The Pahalgam route involves a 46-kilometre trek over four days, while those opting for the Baltal route complete a 14-kilometre trek and return the same day.

    This year, no helicopter services are available for security reasons.

    The cave shrine houses the naturally formed ice Shivling, believed by devotees to symbolise the mystical powers of Lord Shiva.

    -IANS

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hospital Authority welcomes Government’s reappointment of Chairman and appointment of Chief Executive

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

         The Hospital Authority (HA) today (July 2) welcomes the Government’s reappointment of Mr Henry Fan as the Chairman of the HA and the appointment of Dr Libby Lee as the Chief Executive of the HA.

         Mr Fan said, “I am very honoured to be reappointed and to continue serving the public together with the 90 000 staff members of the HA. I am also very much looking forward to working with Dr Lee again at the HA to jointly lead the ongoing reforms of the HA. Our future work focus will be on fully implementing the HA’s various reform initiatives, particularly the public healthcare fees and charges reform to be launched in January next year. The HA will continue to enhance its services regarding the wellbeing of patients and uphold the patient-centric value, and will continue to promote the sustainable development of public healthcare services.”

         The appointment of Dr Lee as the Chief Executive of the HA has been endorsed by the HA Board and approved by the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, after a global search and thorough deliberation by the Selection Board appointed by the HA Board.

         “The HA Board has full confidence in Dr Lee’s wealth of experience in both clinical and management fields, and believes that her leadership capabilities and governance talents will continue to lead the HA to attain a higher level of achievement. Dr Lee demonstrates clear vision and aspirations for the HA’s future development, and will lead the HA to face future challenges, continue reforms, enhance public hospital services, and move towards sustainable development, with the staunch support of all HA staff members,” Mr Fan said.

         “With the support of the Health Bureau and the HA Board, all staff members of the HA, Dr Lee, and I will continue to work together to enhance public hospital services and provide quality and sustainable public healthcare services for Hong Kong citizens. We will continue to strengthen our manpower and enhance exchanges with healthcare professionals worldwide, particularly from the Mainland. At the same time, we will continue to upgrade the facilities and service capacity of public hospitals to address the challenges of an ageing society and surging service demand,” Mr Fan added.

         Dr Lee expressed that she is deeply honoured to be appointed as the Chief Executive of the HA. “I am very grateful for the trust of the Government and the HA Board in appointing me to lead the HA. With the staunch support of all HA staff members, the Health Bureau, and the HA Board, as well as close collaboration with healthcare sector and community partners, I firmly believe that the HA will certainly reach new heights and benefit patients.”

         The current Chief Executive of the HA, Dr Tony Ko, welcomed the reappointment of Mr Fan and congratulated Dr Lee on her appointment to the new position. He believes that with Dr Lee’s extensive management experience at the Health Bureau and the HA, as well as her visionary perspective on public health policy and public healthcare services, she will certainly continue to drive the HA reforms and benefit patients.

         Dr Ko will complete his contract and step down on July 31, with Dr Lee taking up her new role immediately on August 1. Mr Fan extends his appreciation to Dr Ko for his years of service to patients in public hospitals, particularly his contributions and outstanding performance to the HA and public healthcare services during his tenure as Chief Executive. He led the HA in navigating various challenges, especially in leading HA staff members in fighting the epidemic, and in fully promoting the HA’s sustainable development, talent exchange and reforms after the epidemic, marking important milestones for the HA at different stages. On behalf of all HA staff members, Mr Fan wishes Dr Ko every happiness after his departure.

         Mr Fan also congratulated Dr Cecilia Fan on her appointment as the Under Secretary for Health, believing that Dr Fan’s extensive experience in public health over the years will certainly elevate Hong Kong’s public health policies to new heights and promote more public health services that meet the needs of Hong Kong citizens.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: APEC Opens Scientist Exchange Program in Korea Sejong, Republic of Korea | 02 July 2025 APEC Policy Partnership on Science, Technology and Innovation APEC has kicked off a new exchange program to boost cross-border research, with Korea hosting the first cohort of scientists in Seoul this year.

    Source: APEC – Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation

    APEC has kicked off a new exchange program to boost cross-border research, with Korea hosting the first cohort of scientists in Seoul this year. The Scientist Invitation Program to Korea 2025 marks the first program under the APEC Scientist Exchange Initiative, a new regional effort to enhance scientific mobility and long-term collaboration.

    This is the first time APEC has launched a dedicated mobility track for scientists, signaling a significant step toward institutionalizing scientific exchange as part of the region’s broader agenda for inclusive innovation and sustainable growth.

    Funded and implemented this year by the Ministry of Science and ICT of the Republic of Korea, the program supports researchers from APEC member economies through structured training and joint research opportunities. It also offers streamlined visa application processes and fast-track entry and exit at Korean ports of entry.

    The launch comes at a time when economies are navigating post-pandemic recovery, an accelerating digital transformation and rising demand for interdisciplinary scientific talent. By investing in mobility and peer exchange, the program responds to calls for deeper regional cooperation in science and technology.

    “Capacity building and exchange programmes empower scientists to share knowledge, foster innovation and create solutions that transcend borders, driving global progress through shared mission collaborations via human-to-human exchanges,” said Hazami Habib, Vice Chair of the APEC Policy Partnership on Science, Technology and Innovation (PPSTI).

    “This could lead to not only enhanced connectivity but also significant impacts across the APEC region. The Scientist Invitation Program to Korea 2025 is a commendable initiative which stimulates further interest in collaborative research within the region,” Habib added.

    “Korea has emphasized the importance of innovation driven by cultivating science and technology talent,” said Sunghoon Hwang, Director General for International Cooperation at Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT. “We hope that the Scientist Invitation Program will enable scientists from Korea and participating APEC members to build research networks and create scientific collaboration opportunities across the region, particularly with Korea.”

    The program offers two distinct pathways for participation. The first is a 10-day capacity-building track that includes mentoring, expert lectures and policy discussions to support future collaboration. The second is a 90-day research placement, where participants conduct joint research at leading Korean institutions. Eligible applicants must hold a PhD or a master’s degree with at least three years of relevant professional experience.

    The first session, focused on physics, ran from 26 May to 6 June in Seoul. It brought together 21 researchers and professors from Malaysia, Peru and Thailand, who engaged in lab visits, including the Center for Quantum Nanoscience at Ewha Womans University, and took part in cultural experiences that strengthened professional and personal ties.

    “This program will help me to have an international collaboration. I feel good, and this is a good opportunity for me,” said Dr Nuttawadee Intachai, a lecturer at Chiang Mai University in Thailand who participated in the session.

    The second session, focused on chemistry and involving scientists from Indonesia and the Philippines, concluded on 27 June. Upcoming sessions in earth sciences and life sciences, along with the first round of 90-day research placements, are set to begin in July.

    With up to 100 scientists expected to participate this year, the Scientist Invitation Program is laying the groundwork for a more connected, collaborative, and innovation-driven APEC region.

    The broader initiative also includes plans for an APEC Scientist Travel Card, modeled after the APEC Business Travel Card. Once developed, the card would streamline mobility for scientists attending conferences, seminars, or joint projects by facilitating visa-free or expedited entry. More information is available on the official program website.

    For media inquiries, please contact: [email protected]

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Oxfam reaction to Spain, Brazil and South Africa launching a new coalition to tax the super-rich

    Source: Oxfam –

    In response to Spain, Brazil and South Africa’s new global coalition to tax the super-rich, launched today at the Fourth Financing for Development Conference in Seville, Oxfam Tax Justice Policy Lead Susana Ruiz said: 

    “We welcome the leadership of Brazil, Spain and South Africa in calling for taxes on the super-rich. People around the world are pushing for more countries to reject the corrupting political influence of oligarchies. Taxation of the super-rich is a vital tool to secure sustainable development and fight inequalities. The wealth of the richest 1% has surged $33.9 trillion since 2015, enough to end annual poverty 22 times, yet billionaires only pay around 0.3% in real taxes.  

    “This extreme inequality is being driven by a financial system that puts the interests of a wealthy few above everyone else. This concentration of wealth is blocking progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals and keeping over three billion people living in poverty: over half of poor countries are spending more on debt repayments than on healthcare or education. 

    “In a tense geopolitical environment, Spain, Brazil and South Africa have taken an important step in forging an alliance here at the UN conference in Seville to show political will for taxation of the super-rich. Now other countries must follow their lead and join forces. This year, the FFD in Seville, COP30 in Brazil and G20 in South Africa are key opportunities for international cooperation to tax the super-rich and invest in a sustainable future that puts human rights and equality at its core.”

    Download the Oxfam report “From Private Profit to Public Power: Financing Development, Not Oligarchy“ which was launched ahead of the Fourth Financing for Development Conference with new analysis on economic inequality.

    Greenpeace and Oxfam International commissioned a study this month on public opinion on taxing the super-rich. The research was conducted by first party data company Dynata in May-June 2025, in Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Kenya, Italy, India, Mexico, the Philippines, South Africa, Spain, the UK and the US. The survey had approximately 1200 respondents per country, with a margin of error of +-2.83%. Together, these countries represent close to half the world’s population. See the results here.

    Oxfam will be hosting a major high-level event together with Club de Madrid, at 7pm on July 1, 2025, in Seville, joined by high-level government representatives on the media briefing note. Journalists are invited to attend and will be prioritized for questions. Please register here.

    Moreover, an official side event on inequality and tax reform will take place at 2.30pm on July 1, 2025, at the FIBES Exhibition Centre room 20 joined by high-level government representatives from Brazil, Spain and South Africa, international organizations and global experts. See note here.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African Development Bank approves $47.5 million loan to spur Eswatini’s economic growth


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    The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) has approved a $47.5 million loan to the Kingdom of Eswatini. The loan will support the government’s efforts to transform the economy, achieve sustainable growth, create jobs, improve service delivery, and enhance the livelihoods of its people. 

    The Enhancing Economic Resilience and Competitiveness Program (EERCP) represents a strategic intervention to support Eswatini’s National Development Plan (2023-2028).

    This marks the first phase of a two-year program designed to strengthen the economic foundation of the southern African nation and foster sustainable growth, economic recovery, and sustainable livelihoods for Eswatini people, while addressing mounting fiscal pressures from declining Southern African Customs Union (SACU) revenues and economic headwinds.

    “This operation comes at a critical juncture for Eswatini as the country navigates challenging economic conditions while implementing ambitious reforms,” said Moono Mupotola, African Development Bank Deputy Director General for Southern Africa “Our support will help the Kingdom build fiscal resilience while creating an enabling environment for private sector-led growth that can generate jobs for young people and women.”

    Eswatini’s economy faces significant headwinds, with GDP growth declining from 5% in 2023 to an estimated 3.6% in 2024, primarily due to the impact of extreme droughts on agricultural output. The fiscal deficit has widened from 1.5% in 2023 to an estimated 1.7% in 2024, driven by underperformance in customs revenues and increased public spending pressures.

    With youth unemployment reaching 48.7% and overall unemployment at 35.4%, Eswatini urgently needs structural reforms to unleash the potential of its private sector and create opportunities for its predominantly young population.

    The program focuses on two complementary pillars: deepening fiscal and public financial management reforms, and enhancing competitiveness to promote private sector-led, inclusive, and green growth.

    The program builds on the African Development Bank’s successful track record in Eswatini, including the Support for Economic Recovery and Inclusive Growth operation and ongoing technical assistance in state-owned enterprise reforms, procurement, and the implementation of gender policy.

    The Enhancing Economic Resilience and Competitiveness Program places special emphasis on promoting inclusive growth and gender equality. Environmental sustainability is integrated throughout the program.

    The program is expected to deliver measurable improvements by reducing domestic arrears, increasing private sector growth in GDP, boosting renewable energy share, and improving Country Policy and Institutional Assessment (https://apo-opa.co/44KEUgw) scores on fiscal policy and social inclusion. The Country Policy and Institutional Assessment of the African Development Bank is a diagnostic tool that assesses, every two years, the quality of policies and the performance of institutional frameworks in the 54 African countries.

    The EERCP has been developed in close coordination with the World Bank, which provides complementary financing.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

    Media contact:
    Emeka Anuforo
    Communication and External Relations Department
    media@afdb.org

    About the African Development Bank Group:
    The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • Iranian President Pezeshkian Signs into Law Suspending Cooperation with UN Nuclear Monitor

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has signed into law a bill suspending cooperation with the United Nations’ nuclear monitor, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Iranian state media reported on Wednesday. This is one of the most drastic steps Iran has made in its standoff with international powers on its nuclear activities.

    State broadcaster of Iran reported that “Masoud Pezeshkian ratified the bill suspending cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency,” Press TV, Mehr news agency, and semi-official Tasnim news agency stated. The legislation, which occurred after the recent military clashes with Israel and the United States, came into effect officially.

    The suspension comes on the heels of Iran’s Parliament approving the legislation overwhelmingly, gaining 221 votes in support, one abstention, and no opposition from among those present in the 290-seat house. The parliamentary vote then got approval from Iran’s constitutional monitor before it could hit the president’s desk.

    The action follows a build-up of tensions that started on June 13 when Israel bombed Iranian military and nuclear facilities. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks against Israeli targets, and the US retaliated with attacks on key Iranian nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan on June 22. Iran condemned the US attacks as a ‘savage assault’ and vowed not to abandon its nuclear program. The 12-day war finally came to an end under a US-facilitated ceasefire that took effect on June 24.

    Iranian officials accused the IAEA of remaining silent throughout the military campaign, stoking Iran’s tensions with the UN nuclear agency over access and transparency. The implications for the IAEA’s ability to monitor Iran’s nuclear program are uncertain, but it is a stark escalation of Iran’s nuclear posture amid rising regional tensions.

  • Extremely heavy rainfall likely at several places in Rajasthan, Maharashtra: IMD

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday said that active monsoon conditions will continue over several parts of northwest, central, and east India for the next six to seven days, with widespread rainfall expected across multiple regions.

    Extremely heavy rainfall (20 cm or more) is very likely at isolated places over east Rajasthan and the ghat areas of central Maharashtra today.

    The IMD has also issued extremely heavy rainfall warnings for Meghalaya on July 5 and 6. Very heavy rainfall activity is also expected in several other parts of the country during this period.

    Kerala and Karnataka are likely to receive heavy rainfall today. Himachal Pradesh is expected to witness heavy showers between July 5 and 7, while Punjab and Haryana may see intense rainfall on July 6 and 7.

    East Rajasthan and Arunachal Pradesh are also expected to receive significant rainfall between July 2 and 4. Madhya Pradesh, Konkan & Goa, the ghat regions of central Maharashtra, Gujarat region, and northeastern states including Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura will likely see heavy rainfall between July 2 and 6.

    Assam and Meghalaya are expected to receive heavy rains from July 4 to 6, and Chhattisgarh and Odisha on July 2, 5, and 6.

    Weather forecast for Delhi-NCR

    In the Delhi-NCR region, partly cloudy skies and light rain accompanied by thunderstorm and lightning are expected through July 5.

    Maximum temperatures are forecast to remain in the range of 35 to 38°C, consistently staying 1 to 2 degrees below normal. Minimum temperatures are also expected to be slightly below normal, ranging from 24 to 28°C.

    Today, Delhi is likely to experience southeasterly winds with a speed of less than 15 kmph in the afternoon, gradually slowing to 8-10 kmph by evening and night.

    On July 3 and 4, light rain and thunderstorms are likely to continue, with wind directions varying between southeast, east, and southwest at speeds generally under 10 kmph.

    On July 5, both maximum and minimum temperatures in Delhi are expected to dip slightly further, with lows ranging between 24 and 26°C. Winds will predominantly come from the southwest, peaking at less than 20 kmph in the morning and gradually tapering off during the day.

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Country and regional analyses underscore urgency of WTO reform

    Source: International Chamber of Commerce

    Headline: Country and regional analyses underscore urgency of WTO reform

    Building on the 2024 regional study, a new 2025 follow-up report commissioned by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and conducted by Oxford Economics provides a country-level look at the consequences of WTO dissolution for ten developing economies: Brazil, Cameroon, China, Egypt, Guatemala, India, Indonesia, South Africa, Türkiye and Vietnam.

    The 2024 regional study (available in English and Spanish) showed that WTO dissolution would have devastating consequences for developing economies across the world, including:

    • A 33% drop in developing countries’ non-fuel goods trade relative to a baseline scenario with the multilateral system still in place;
    • A permanent GDP loss to developing countries of over 5% – driven in part by a 5% decline in foreign direct investment flows;
    • Acute export losses of 43% in low-income economies and 32% in middle-income countries;
    • At a regional level, trade flows in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia are most affected, reflective of the large number of LDCs within these groupings. 

    This new country-level analysis confirms those findings and shows the impact on ten examined developing economies:

    • Non-fuel goods exports would fall by up to 45%, with Brazil, India and China among the hardest hit. Even the least affected countries in the sample — Egypt and Guatemala — would face declines of around 20%;
    • Foreign direct investment is projected to fall between 3–6% in the ten countries studied, as rising uncertainty and trade costs undermine investor confidence;
    • Long-run GDP losses are estimated to range from 3% to 6%, with the sharpest contractions in economies highly dependent on export-led growth, such as Vietnam, China and India.

    These figures underscore what is at stake. For developing countries, the breakdown of the multilateral trading system would not just slow progress, it could reverse hard-won development gains.

    The message is clear: the multilateral trading system remains an essential foundation not only for economic growth and poverty reduction, but to also safeguard wider global interests, including supply chain resilience. Preserving and strengthening the WTO is not a theoretical exercise — it is an urgent priority for sustainable development and shared prosperity.

    Why are some countries more exposed than others?

    The research shows that countries with shallow integration into global value chains and limited trade agreements —such as Brazil and India — would face the sharpest export declines. Others, like China and Vietnam, are more integrated into global markets but remain highly dependent on a predictable, rules-based system. In all cases, a WTO dissolution would have far-reaching consequences for growth and development.

    Can FTAs replace the WTO’s rule-based system?

    While regional and bilateral trade agreements offer some protection, they do not offer the global legal certainty and broad-based commitments provided by WTO rules. Even with countries with more extensive FTA networks, such as Guatemala and Egypt, would still face major disruptions. In addition, many FTAs are built on WTO rules. If the global trading system broke down, parts of those agreements could stop working properly, and some deals might need to be rewritten.

    What needs to happen now?

    The findings reinforce the urgency of revitalising and strengthening the multilateral trading system. ICC urges governments to work together to ensure the multilateral trading system is modernised and made fit-for-purpose to meet the demands of today’s global economy.

    Without action, the cost of the erosion of the WTO will fall heaviest on those with the least ability to absorb it and the greatest need for a stable, rules-based global economy. The alternative, as this paper shows, is not just economic disruption for developing countries, but a devastating setback for global development and, ultimately, for the lives and livelihoods of billions.  

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: 1 July 2025 Sakhalin Region to appear at EEF Far East Street as Asia-Pacific energy and logistics hub Sakhalin Region will again participate in the Far East Street exhibition, scheduled to take place on 3–9 September as part of the 2025 Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok. The exhibition is being organized by the Roscongress Foundation with the support of the Office of the Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the Far Eastern Federal District. The country’s only island region will present major investment and social projects, share its unique history and culture, and touch on the development of unmanned aviation.

    Source: Eastern Economic Forum

    1 July 2025

    Sakhalin Region to appear at EEF Far East Street as Asia-Pacific energy and logistics hub

    Sakhalin Region will again participate in the Far East Street exhibition, scheduled to take place on 3–9 September as part of the 2025 Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok. The exhibition is being organized by the Roscongress Foundation with the support of the Office of the Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the Far Eastern Federal District. The country’s only island region will present major investment and social projects, share its unique history and culture, and touch on the development of unmanned aviation.

    “Sakhalin Region is one of the Far East’s investment leaders. It ranks fourth on the National Investment Climate Rating and first out of the constituent entities of the Far Eastern Federal District. The manufacturing, coal, and construction industries are all growing. Awaiting entrepreneurs are TAD and free port benefits and preferential treatment in the Kurils. Science and technology are booming in the region. The President has ordered that an international campus be created. An engineering school and electrical engineering laboratory are currently in operation, the first phase of the Oil and Gas Industrial Park has been launched, and a scientific and production centre for the development of unmanned systems established, all contributing to new production facilities, new talent, and train for a new generation of specialists. The local master plan is reinventing Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk. There’s no denying there is much to showcase and be proud of in the region,” Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation and Plenipotentiary Presidential Envoy to the Far Eastern Federal District Yury Trutnev said.

    The Sakhalin Region’s main pavilion on Far East Street, located next to the investor pavilion in the shape of a scallop shell, will take the form of waves and be decorated with installations related to logistics: a hydrogen train, a UAV, an aircraft, and the port of Korsakov.

    “The EEF has long played an important role in Sakhalin Region’s economic development. We have signed more than 60 agreements here in the past five years, good for some 5,700 jobs, and launched important projects in energy, transport, and education, modernizing the power grid, developing hydrogen energy, spreading gas throughout the region, modernizing port infrastructure, building medical clinics, and developing science as part of the construction of the SakhalinTech campus. It is important to us that Sakhalin and the Kuril Islands become more comfortable and that people want to visit and live here, a goal we will continue to pursue in the future,” Governor of the Sakhalin Region Valery Limarenko said.

    Inside the pavilion, there will be an installation dedicated to the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, with the exhibition ‘Roads to Victory’ telling the story of the Battle of Sakhalin and the Landing on Shumshu and a film about the expedition to the island and videos reconstructing battles in the Kholmsky and Smirnykhovsky.

    “The President of the Russian Federation has tasked us with creating a memorial complex on Shumshu, one the islands of the Kuril chain, dedicated to the Kuril landing operation, which essentially marked the end of World War II and the defeat of the Kwantung Army. Our soldiers defeated superior forces, demonstrated outstanding heroism, parachuted into the water fully equipped, and attacked tanks and firing points located on high ground. It is one of the most significant pages in our history,” Trutnev said.

    The Tourism zone will feature new historical tours like ‘The Battle of Shumshu’ and ‘The Liberation of Southern Sakhalin’, winter and summer holidays, culinary tours, and the ‘Far East – Land of Adventure’ project.

    The Sakhalin – Russian Showcase zone will feature important projects like the agglomeration master plan and regional development in medicine, science and education, logistics, culture, and the urban environment.

    Another zone has been dedicated to the results of the Sakhalin Region Development Corporation’s work over the last decade and will use multimedia technologies, among others, to report on initiatives by the Mersi Agro Sakhalin livestock complex, the Horizon residential complex, the Uyun territory development project, the agro-park, and the oil service park.

    The UAV and USV zone will showcase the island’s efforts to lead the development of unmanned systems in Russia, with a separate exhibition promoting Sakhalin’s achievements in the field.

    There are plans to host three international forums in Sakhalin Region in 2025: ‘Wings of Sakhalin’, ‘Energy of Sakhalin’, and ‘Islands of Sustainable Development: Climate’ at the new Pushisty Drone Port. The Sakhalin Expo exhibition will be dedicated to the development of congress and exhibition activities in the region.

    The main pavilion will be located next to the ‘Made in Sakhalin’ stand, which will showcase regional clothing, jewellery, souvenir, food, and health brands as well as achievements in the film industry and computer graphics. The pavilion will incorporate works by Sakhalin photographers and musicians into its design and feature a variety of murals, including an image of the Aniva lighthouse, the unofficial symbol of the region.

    The art installation ‘Happy Motherhood’ will symbolize family values in honour of 2025 as the Year of Happy Motherhood on the islands and the focus of the regional government’s social policy on demographic issues and the conditions necessary for women to be mothers without having to sacrifice their careers or their families.

    This year’s cultural programme from the Sakhalin Region will seek to promote local authors and musicians, with songs by Sakhalin composer and poet Georgy Zobov to be performed by artists from the Stage Academy and accompanied by the Aritmia dance studio and Dreambox band. Guests can look forward to performances by the duo Vishnya, who will present a combination of electronic music, songs, and ethnic music, the Larisa Dolina Academy of Pop Music ensemble, which will perform cover versions of well-known Russian hits, and stilt walkers from the 2233 theatre studio.

    A regional delegation will present a series of unique performances entitled ‘Sea Meditation’. Over the course of three days, Sakhalin artist Konstantin Kolupaev will employ his own unique technique to create paintings dedicated to the beauty and power of nature on a huge canvas as viewers observe the master at work.

    The Sakhalin Region sports programme will feature an interactive VR platform, where visitors can try their hand at downhill skiing, ski jumping, or parachuting, and the Beat the Champion chess platform.

    The Eastern Economic Forum will be held on the campus of the Far Eastern Federal University in Vladivostok from 3–6 September, during which time the Far East Street exhibition will be open to Forum participants, before opening to the general public on 7, 8, and 9 September. The Eastern Economic Forum is being organized by the Roscongress Foundation.

    Read more

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Showcases AI-Enhanced Appliances at First 2025 India Tech Seminar

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung hosted its first-ever India Tech Seminar in Gurugram. The landmark event was the first of its kind ever held by Samsung in the country, and it brought together around 30 journalists and tech influencers for an immersive, hands-on experience with Samsung’s latest AI-enhanced home appliances.
     
    The seminar included presentations from engineers specializing in refrigeration, laundry, and air conditioning, as well as a customer experience (CX) planner and software engineer. It showcased the enhanced capabilities of its latest products while reaffirming the company’s continued commitment to intelligent living through its “AI Home” vision.
     
    The event began with a welcome address by Ghufran Alam, Vice President, Digital Appliances Business, Samsung India, followed by a presentation from Saurabh Katyal, Head of the Digital Appliances (DA) Business at Samsung India. He introduced the India 2025 Bespoke AI lineup, which includes models already available in the Indian market — such as the Bespoke AI WindFree Air Conditioner, Bespoke AI Double Door Refrigerator, Bespoke AI Top Load Washer and the recently released Bespoke AI Laundry Combo — as well as the soon-to-launch Bespoke AI Refrigerator with AI Home.
     
    To meet the high level of interest that consumers in India have for the SmartThings ecosystem, a live demo led by Samsung’s multi-device experience (MDE) team highlighted how connected technologies support Samsung’s four core values, which are Easy to Use, Saving, Care and Secured. The demo was conducted using the 9” display on the Bespoke AI Refrigerator, serving as a central control hub that ideally showcases the SmartThings experience.
     
     

     
    Key features that were demonstrated included Map View for intuitive device control, Bixby voice commands for seamless interaction, the Knox Security Dashboard for home monitoring, and SmartThings Energy for power usage tracking and optimization. The MDE team also showcased the convenience of SmartThings Routines, which are preset automations that manage devices when users leave their homes, with the capability to automatically turn off appliances and activate security features.
     
    Additionally, Samsung engineers introduced other enhanced features and explained how AI Energy Mode, which is part of SmartThings Energy, functions across the appliance lineup.
     
    Refrigerators
     
    • The Bespoke AI Refrigerator with AI Home features the upgraded AI Vision Inside, which recognizes a wider range of food items to help users manage groceries more efficiently.
     
    • The Bespoke AI Double Door Refrigerator is equipped with Twin Cooling Plus for independent fridge and freezer cooling, and the Convertible 5-in-1 feature, which allows users to flexibly adjust compartments to meet their storage needs. AI Energy Mode helps reduce power consumption through optimized temperature control.
     

     
    Washing Machines
     
    • The Bespoke AI Laundry Combo is a heat pump washer-dryer newly launched in India, featuring AI Wash, which detects load weight, fabric type, and soil level to adjust washing performance, and a heat exchanger for faster, energy-efficient drying.
     
    • The Bespoke AI Top Load Washer is Samsung’s first top-load washer in India with AI features, offering AI Wash, AI VRT+ for noise and vibration reduction, and AI Energy Mode to optimize energy usage based on user habits.
     
     

    Air Conditioners
     
    • The Bespoke AI WindFree Air Conditioner offers draft-free cooling via 23,000 micro-holes, AI Fast & Comfort Cooling, and AI Energy Mode, which learns user behavior to reduce energy consumption by up to 30%.
     
    “The Tech Seminar was a great opportunity to deliver detailed insights into our innovative and trustworthy technologies directly from our engineers to the Indian media,” said Ghufran Alam, Vice President of the DA Business at Samsung India. “We’re proud to continue building meaningful connections with our customers through smarter, AI-enhanced experiences.”
     
    For more information on Samsung’s latest AI-powered home appliances and SmartThings innovations, please visit www.samsung.com.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • Iran enacts law suspending cooperation with UN nuclear watchdog

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian put into effect on Wednesday a law passed by parliament last week to suspend cooperation with the U.N. nuclear watchdog, the IAEA, Iranian state media reported.

    Iran has threatened to halt cooperation with the IAEA, accusing it of siding with Western countries and providing a justification for Israel’s air strikes, which began a day after the IAEA board voted to declare Iran in violation of obligations under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

    The law stipulates that any future inspection of Iran’s nuclear sites by the International Atomic Energy Agency needs approval by Tehran’s Supreme National Security Council.

    Separately, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said in an interview with CBS News that the U.S. bombing of Iran’s key Fordow nuclear site has “seriously and heavily damaged” the facility.

    (Reuters)

  • NIPCCD renamed as Savitribai Phule National Institute of Women and Child Development

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The National Institute of Public Cooperation and Child Development (NIPCCD) has been officially renamed as the Savitribai Phule National Institute of Women and Child Development. The move reflects a renewed focus on region-specific, mission-driven support for the development of women and children across the country.

    Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Annpurna Devi, announced the renaming, describing it as a reaffirmation of the Ministry’s commitment to women and child-centric development across the country.

    The Ministry will inaugurate a new Regional Centre in Ranchi, Jharkhand on 4 July as part of its efforts to strengthen outreach and regional capacity-building. The Centre will address specialized training and research needs for the Ministry’s flagship programmes—Mission Shakti, Mission Vatsalya, and Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0—with particular attention to the Eastern region, covering Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, and West Bengal.

    Earlier, training requirements for these states were partially met through Regional Centres in Guwahati and Lucknow, often causing logistical hurdles for field functionaries due to long travel distances. The Ranchi Centre is expected to ease these challenges by bringing training and capacity-building closer to over seven lakh frontline workers spread across 115 districts in the region.

    The Centre will also offer the Advance Diploma in Child Guidance and Counselling and support research, counselling, and extension activities focused on child development, mental health, and adolescent well-being.

    Speaking on the occasion, Annpurna Devi said the renaming of the Institute is a tribute to the legacy of Savitribai Phule, one of India’s pioneering social reformers. The Minister noted that setting up new regional centres will decentralise capacity-building efforts and strengthen the implementation of the Ministry’s flagship programmes at the grassroots level.

    “The inauguration of the new Regional Centre in Ranchi marks a major step towards ensuring that no woman or child is left behind in our journey towards Viksit Bharat @2047,” she added.

    Headquartered in New Delhi, the Savitribai Phule National Institute of Women and Child Development currently has regional centres in Bangalore, Guwahati, Lucknow, Indore, and Mohali. The Institute serves as the apex body for training, research, documentation, and capacity building in the field of women and child development.

  • The Amarnath Yatra: Journey to Shiva’s Himalayan Abode

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday flagged off the first batch of pilgrims for the annual Amarnath Yatra from Jammu to the Kashmir Valley, marking the start of the 36-day pilgrimage, which officially begins on Thursday.

    Every year thousands of devotees embark on the Amarnath Yatra amid tight security arrangements in the Kashmir Valley.

    According to the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), the Holy Amarnath Cave is situated at a high altitude of 3,888 metres in a narrow gorge at the end of the Lidder Valley. The Shrine is located approximately 46 kilometers from the Pahalgam base and 14 kilometers from the Baltal base.

    While ancient traditions prescribed Srinagar as the starting point for the pilgrimage, most modern-day pilgrims now start their Yatra from Chandanwari for a five-day trek. The traditional Pahalgam base camp itself is located about 96 kilometers from Srinagar.

    The cave shrine is considered one of the major Hindu Dhams and is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, according to the Shrine Board. Inside the cave, a naturally formed ice stalagmite, or lingam, symbolizes Lord Shiva. This sacred formation is said to wax and wane with the phases of the moon, enhancing its mystical allure for devotees.

    Although references to the Holy Cave appear in ancient texts such as the Puranas, its re-discovery is credited to a local shepherd, Buta Malik, says the Shrine Board. Since then, the site has become a major center of Hindu pilgrimage.

    The Amarnath Yatra can be undertaken via two routes: the traditional Pahalgam route, approximately 32 kilometers long, and the shorter, steeper Baltal route, about 14 kilometers in length. The Baltal base camp is located near Sonamarg in Ganderbal district, roughly 95 kilometers from Srinagar. The Pahalgam base camp is located at Nunwan in Anantnag district, around 90 kilometers from Srinagar.

    Access control gates for the Yatra are set up at Domail, 2.5 kilometers from Baltal, and at Chandanwari, 12 kilometers from Nunwan. Both Jammu and Srinagar offer year-round connectivity by road, rail, and air, making the pilgrimage accessible to devotees from across the country.

  • Japan PM says determined to protect national interests amid tariff stalemate

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said on Wednesday he was determined to protect his country’s national interests as trade negotiations with the U.S. struggled and President Donald Trump threatened even higher tariff rates on the Asian ally.

    “Japan is different from other countries as we are the largest investor in the United States, creating jobs,” Ishiba said in a public debate with opposition party leaders.

    “With our basic focus being on investment rather than tariffs, we’ll continue to protect our national interest,” he said.

    Trump on Tuesday cast doubt on a possible deal with Japan, indicating that he could impose a tariff of 30% or 35% on imports from Japan – well above the 24% rate he announced on April 2 and then paused until July 9.

    Japanese broadcaster TV Asahi reported on Wednesday that Japan’s tariff negotiator Ryosei Akazawa was organising his eighth visit to the United States for trade talks as early as this weekend.

    (Reuters)

  • Youth turning entrepreneurs with government-backed training & startup support

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    n a fast evolving economic landscape, youth entrepreneurship is fast gaining momentum, driven by government-backed initiatives focused on skill development and startup support. With various schemes in place and partnerships between local administrations and organizations like SkillingYou, young Indians are being equipped with practical training, business mentorship, and financial guidance.

    These efforts aim to foster self-reliance, reduce unemployment and encourage innovation at the grassroots level. By providing structured support- from aptitude testing to startup launch assistance, the government is enabling a new generation of entrepreneurs who can contribute meaningfully to country’s growth story.

    At district level also, such efforts are being made by the state administrations. To encourage entrepreneurship among the youth of the district, the District Industries Center (DIC) Ghaziabad and SkillingYou, an organization known for its quality technical and educational training, have signed an agreement.

    Through this partnership, young people will get practical business knowledge, structured training, mentorship, and continuous support to help them start and grow their own ventures. Under the Mukhyamantri Yuva Udhyami Loan Yojana, eligible youth will also be guided in securing financial assistance for their businesses.

    The agreement was formalized in the presence of Abhinav Gopal (IAS), Chief Development Officer (CDO), Ghaziabad, who played a key role in shaping this initiative. Also present were Nath Paswan, General Manager, DIC Ghaziabad, and Praveen Kumar Rajbhar, Founder and CEO, SkillingYou.

    CDO Abhinav Gopal said, “We want our youth to have the right training and mentorship so they can confidently set up their businesses. Real change happens when timely information and support reach the right people.”

    The program begins with the selection of youth who wish to start their own businesses, for which they will fill out an application form. After applying, they will take a free Yuva Udhyami Aptitude Test through the SkillingYou mobile app to assess their skills in areas such as market understanding, business knowledge, learning mindset, risk-taking ability and financial awareness. Based on the test results, selected participants will be provided with a one-month business training program covering everything from launching a startup to marketing, sales, finance, legal requirements, social media, and the use of AI in business.

    After completing the training, they will receive certificates. Further support will be provided to help them access government loan schemes and set up their businesses with step-by-step guidance and handholding. This initiative is expected to boost new enterprises, create employment opportunities, and strengthen economic growth across the district.

  • Youth turning entrepreneurs with government-backed training & startup support

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    n a fast evolving economic landscape, youth entrepreneurship is fast gaining momentum, driven by government-backed initiatives focused on skill development and startup support. With various schemes in place and partnerships between local administrations and organizations like SkillingYou, young Indians are being equipped with practical training, business mentorship, and financial guidance.

    These efforts aim to foster self-reliance, reduce unemployment and encourage innovation at the grassroots level. By providing structured support- from aptitude testing to startup launch assistance, the government is enabling a new generation of entrepreneurs who can contribute meaningfully to country’s growth story.

    At district level also, such efforts are being made by the state administrations. To encourage entrepreneurship among the youth of the district, the District Industries Center (DIC) Ghaziabad and SkillingYou, an organization known for its quality technical and educational training, have signed an agreement.

    Through this partnership, young people will get practical business knowledge, structured training, mentorship, and continuous support to help them start and grow their own ventures. Under the Mukhyamantri Yuva Udhyami Loan Yojana, eligible youth will also be guided in securing financial assistance for their businesses.

    The agreement was formalized in the presence of Abhinav Gopal (IAS), Chief Development Officer (CDO), Ghaziabad, who played a key role in shaping this initiative. Also present were Nath Paswan, General Manager, DIC Ghaziabad, and Praveen Kumar Rajbhar, Founder and CEO, SkillingYou.

    CDO Abhinav Gopal said, “We want our youth to have the right training and mentorship so they can confidently set up their businesses. Real change happens when timely information and support reach the right people.”

    The program begins with the selection of youth who wish to start their own businesses, for which they will fill out an application form. After applying, they will take a free Yuva Udhyami Aptitude Test through the SkillingYou mobile app to assess their skills in areas such as market understanding, business knowledge, learning mindset, risk-taking ability and financial awareness. Based on the test results, selected participants will be provided with a one-month business training program covering everything from launching a startup to marketing, sales, finance, legal requirements, social media, and the use of AI in business.

    After completing the training, they will receive certificates. Further support will be provided to help them access government loan schemes and set up their businesses with step-by-step guidance and handholding. This initiative is expected to boost new enterprises, create employment opportunities, and strengthen economic growth across the district.

  • Youth turning entrepreneurs with government-backed training & startup support

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    n a fast evolving economic landscape, youth entrepreneurship is fast gaining momentum, driven by government-backed initiatives focused on skill development and startup support. With various schemes in place and partnerships between local administrations and organizations like SkillingYou, young Indians are being equipped with practical training, business mentorship, and financial guidance.

    These efforts aim to foster self-reliance, reduce unemployment and encourage innovation at the grassroots level. By providing structured support- from aptitude testing to startup launch assistance, the government is enabling a new generation of entrepreneurs who can contribute meaningfully to country’s growth story.

    At district level also, such efforts are being made by the state administrations. To encourage entrepreneurship among the youth of the district, the District Industries Center (DIC) Ghaziabad and SkillingYou, an organization known for its quality technical and educational training, have signed an agreement.

    Through this partnership, young people will get practical business knowledge, structured training, mentorship, and continuous support to help them start and grow their own ventures. Under the Mukhyamantri Yuva Udhyami Loan Yojana, eligible youth will also be guided in securing financial assistance for their businesses.

    The agreement was formalized in the presence of Abhinav Gopal (IAS), Chief Development Officer (CDO), Ghaziabad, who played a key role in shaping this initiative. Also present were Nath Paswan, General Manager, DIC Ghaziabad, and Praveen Kumar Rajbhar, Founder and CEO, SkillingYou.

    CDO Abhinav Gopal said, “We want our youth to have the right training and mentorship so they can confidently set up their businesses. Real change happens when timely information and support reach the right people.”

    The program begins with the selection of youth who wish to start their own businesses, for which they will fill out an application form. After applying, they will take a free Yuva Udhyami Aptitude Test through the SkillingYou mobile app to assess their skills in areas such as market understanding, business knowledge, learning mindset, risk-taking ability and financial awareness. Based on the test results, selected participants will be provided with a one-month business training program covering everything from launching a startup to marketing, sales, finance, legal requirements, social media, and the use of AI in business.

    After completing the training, they will receive certificates. Further support will be provided to help them access government loan schemes and set up their businesses with step-by-step guidance and handholding. This initiative is expected to boost new enterprises, create employment opportunities, and strengthen economic growth across the district.

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: China: Authorities must end interference in Tibetan religious practices as Dalai Lama announces succession plan – Amnesty International

    Source: Amnesty International

    Responding to the Dalai Lama outlining the process for his spiritual succession ahead of his 90th birthday, amid longstanding efforts by Chinese authorities to control the reincarnation of Tibetan Buddhist leaders, Amnesty International’s China Director Sarah Brooks said:

    “The Chinese authorities’ ongoing efforts to control the selection of the next Dalai Lama are a direct assault on the right to freedom of religion or belief. Tibetan Buddhists, like all faith communities, must be able to choose their spiritual leaders without coercion or interference by the authorities.

    “The Chinese authorities have a long history of systematically suppressing religious freedom and tightening control over Tibetan Buddhism. For example, in 1995 the authorities forcibly disappeared Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, the boy recognized by the Dalai Lama as the Panchen Lama; Beijing has yet to properly explain his fate and whereabouts.

    “This climate of secrecy, coupled with the imposition of numerous state-appointed religious figures within Tibetan Buddhism, highlights a concerning pattern of state control over religion in China.

    “The Chinese authorities must immediately end political interference in Tibetan religious practices and cease using religious succession as a tool for control and coercion. Authorities must uphold the right of everyone to freedom of religion or belief. They must also immediately allow independent access to Gedhun Choekyi Nyima and take steps to end 30 years of impunity for his disappearance.”

    Background

    His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, the Tibetan spiritual leader, announced on Wednesday (2 July) in Dharamshala, India that he will have a successor after his death. He said only the Gaden Phodrang Trust, which he founded, had the authority to recognize his future reincarnation.

    Chinese government policy asserts that all reincarnations of Tibetan Buddhist “Living Buddhas” must be approved by state authorities. This position is detailed in legal instruments such as the 2007 Measures on the Management of Reincarnation of Living Buddhas, which require official vetting and approval by multiple levels of government depending on the religious figure’s influence.

    In its March 2025 white paper, “Human Rights in Xizang in the New Era,” the Chinese government reaffirmed this position, stating that the reincarnation system operates “under the guidance of Buddhist associations and the administration of the government.” The paper boasts that 93 reincarnated Living Buddhas had been confirmed following government approval by the end of 2024, highlighting state control as a key achievement.

    Gedhun Choekyi Nyima was six years old when he was recognized by the Dalai Lama as the 11th Panchen Lama in May 1995. Three days later, he and his family were forcibly disappeared by Chinese authorities. He has not been seen in public since. The Chinese government has since made vague claims that he is “living a normal life”.

    Under international human rights law, including Article 18 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), all individuals and communities have the right to adopt and manifest a religion or belief of their choice without coercion. Although China has signed but not ratified the ICCPR, it remains obliged not to defeat the treaty’s object and purpose. Enforced disappearance is a continuous violation under international law until the fate of the individual is clarified.

    The UN Committee on the Rights of the Child and the UN Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances have repeatedly requested information on the whereabouts of Gedhun Choekyi Nyima. The Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief has emphasized that religious communities must be free to determine their leadership without state interference.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: USEUCOM Welcomes New Commander in Stuttgart Ceremony

    Source: United States EUROPEAN COMMAND

    STUTTGART, Germany – July 1, 2025 —U.S. Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command from U.S. Army Gen. Christopher G. Cavoli during a formal Change of Command ceremony at Patch Barracks today.

    As one of the United States’ six geographic combatant commands, USEUCOM plays a critical role in deterring aggression, supporting NATO allies, and defending U.S. national interests across a vast area of responsibility that includes Europe, parts of Asia and the Middle East, and the Arctic.

    Cavoli, who led the command since June 27, 2022, oversaw a period marked by increased U.S. and NATO interoperability, rotational deployments, and defense posture adjustments in Eastern Europe.

    “Like many others, I have stood in awe of you,” Cavoli said speaking to members of USEUCOM. “The thing that drives you to great heights is that you perform for our country in front of others and with our allies. The one privilege I will always remember, I will always cherish, is the privilege to stand in the ranks with you, all of you at EUCOM.”

    Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, U.S. Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, presided over the ceremony. He spoke to the importance of integrated operations, and both Cavoli’s and Grynkewich’s leadership, saying, “The world can shift in a matter of hours, and that’s why we prepare, why we shift, and why we train and operate as an integrated force – to be ready. General Grynkewich is prepared for this job. He is the right leader who is humble, credible and approachable to follow the great leader before him.”

    Grynkewich previously served as the Director of Operations, J-3, Joint Staff. He assisted the Chairman in carrying out responsibilities as the principal military advisor to the President and Secretary of Defense. He has served as an instructor pilot, weapons officer and operational test pilot in the F-16 Fighting Falcon and F-22 Raptor. Grynkewich has commanded at the squadron, wing, and Air Expeditionary Task Force levels.

    “Today, a protracted war rages in Europe for the first time in decades, and our operations in the Mediterranean are helping to contain conflict in the Middle East. More broadly our adversaries are aligning, working together more than ever before as they seek to dominate their regions and even the globe, thus the good work done here across the command is more important than ever,” said Grynkewich. “These are consequential times, demanding bold and innovative leadership at all times. The men and women of EUCOM deliver this every single day, and my pledge to you is that I will do everything in my power to do the same for you.”

    USEUCOM is dedicated to proactively safeguarding the homeland while enhancing security across the Euro-Atlantic region. It is responsible for planning and executing military operations within its area of responsibility, which includes conducting joint and multinational training, providing military assistance to partner nations, and fostering military-to-military relationships with Allies and partners.

    For more information please contact USEUCOM public affairs at eucom.media@mail.mil

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: USEUCOM Welcomes New Commander in Stuttgart Ceremony

    Source: United States EUROPEAN COMMAND

    STUTTGART, Germany – July 1, 2025 —U.S. Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command from U.S. Army Gen. Christopher G. Cavoli during a formal Change of Command ceremony at Patch Barracks today.

    As one of the United States’ six geographic combatant commands, USEUCOM plays a critical role in deterring aggression, supporting NATO allies, and defending U.S. national interests across a vast area of responsibility that includes Europe, parts of Asia and the Middle East, and the Arctic.

    Cavoli, who led the command since June 27, 2022, oversaw a period marked by increased U.S. and NATO interoperability, rotational deployments, and defense posture adjustments in Eastern Europe.

    “Like many others, I have stood in awe of you,” Cavoli said speaking to members of USEUCOM. “The thing that drives you to great heights is that you perform for our country in front of others and with our allies. The one privilege I will always remember, I will always cherish, is the privilege to stand in the ranks with you, all of you at EUCOM.”

    Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, U.S. Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, presided over the ceremony. He spoke to the importance of integrated operations, and both Cavoli’s and Grynkewich’s leadership, saying, “The world can shift in a matter of hours, and that’s why we prepare, why we shift, and why we train and operate as an integrated force – to be ready. General Grynkewich is prepared for this job. He is the right leader who is humble, credible and approachable to follow the great leader before him.”

    Grynkewich previously served as the Director of Operations, J-3, Joint Staff. He assisted the Chairman in carrying out responsibilities as the principal military advisor to the President and Secretary of Defense. He has served as an instructor pilot, weapons officer and operational test pilot in the F-16 Fighting Falcon and F-22 Raptor. Grynkewich has commanded at the squadron, wing, and Air Expeditionary Task Force levels.

    “Today, a protracted war rages in Europe for the first time in decades, and our operations in the Mediterranean are helping to contain conflict in the Middle East. More broadly our adversaries are aligning, working together more than ever before as they seek to dominate their regions and even the globe, thus the good work done here across the command is more important than ever,” said Grynkewich. “These are consequential times, demanding bold and innovative leadership at all times. The men and women of EUCOM deliver this every single day, and my pledge to you is that I will do everything in my power to do the same for you.”

    USEUCOM is dedicated to proactively safeguarding the homeland while enhancing security across the Euro-Atlantic region. It is responsible for planning and executing military operations within its area of responsibility, which includes conducting joint and multinational training, providing military assistance to partner nations, and fostering military-to-military relationships with Allies and partners.

    For more information please contact USEUCOM public affairs at eucom.media@mail.mil

    MIL Security OSI –

  • India’s captive and commercial coal mines register strong growth in June 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Coal production from India’s captive and commercial mines reached 15.57 million tonnes (MT) in June 2025, while coal dispatches stood higher at 17.31 MT, according to data released by the Ministry of Coal.

    The first quarter of the financial year 2025–26 has shown robust year-on-year growth, with production rising by 16.39% and dispatches by 13.03% compared to the same period last year. The Ministry attributes this positive trend to enhanced operational efficiency and better utilization of mining capacity across the sector.

    The Ministry also highlighted consistent improvement in performance over the last three years, with steady growth in both coal production and dispatch levels at the end of each Q1 period. A comparative graph has been shared to illustrate these gains.

    Among key developments in June 2025, mine opening permission was granted for the Utkal A Mine, which has a maximum mining capacity  of 25 million tonnes. Additionally, vesting orders for three coal blocks were issued, bringing the total number of allocated coal blocks to over 200.

  • India’s captive and commercial coal mines register strong growth in June 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Coal production from India’s captive and commercial mines reached 15.57 million tonnes (MT) in June 2025, while coal dispatches stood higher at 17.31 MT, according to data released by the Ministry of Coal.

    The first quarter of the financial year 2025–26 has shown robust year-on-year growth, with production rising by 16.39% and dispatches by 13.03% compared to the same period last year. The Ministry attributes this positive trend to enhanced operational efficiency and better utilization of mining capacity across the sector.

    The Ministry also highlighted consistent improvement in performance over the last three years, with steady growth in both coal production and dispatch levels at the end of each Q1 period. A comparative graph has been shared to illustrate these gains.

    Among key developments in June 2025, mine opening permission was granted for the Utkal A Mine, which has a maximum mining capacity  of 25 million tonnes. Additionally, vesting orders for three coal blocks were issued, bringing the total number of allocated coal blocks to over 200.

  • MIL-OSI Russia: From Idea to Exhibition: Moscow to Host Educational Course for Artists

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Agency for Creative Industries capital Department of Culture opens a free practice-oriented course for artists and students of specialized universities “Art. Practicum”. Anyone can join nine classes, where industry experts will teach students how to design a creative portfolio, submit applications to Russian and foreign exhibitions and fairs, and also correctly present the idea of their project.

    The lectures will be held both online and in person from July 8 to August 15 at the Moscow Workshops creative center. It opened in May of this year in the Sofia Meeting Place district center.

    Participants will learn how to turn creative ideas into compelling proposals and presentations for potential exhibition curators, organizations, and foundations. The lectures will cover how to correctly describe the concept of a work, justify the budget, present visual materials, and adapt the project to the requirements of the venues. Listeners will also learn about key strategies for building a professional reputation in the digital space, how to design a portfolio and a website with artists’ works. You can apply for participation at website Moscow creative industries agencies.

    “We decided to make this stream of the Art. Workshop course accessible to a wide audience: it will be interesting and useful for both beginning artists and those who have been in the art industry for a long time. The course gives participants not only the opportunity to acquire relevant knowledge and tools for promoting their work, but also a chance to become part of the artistic community, establish valuable professional contacts and receive feedback on their project from industry professionals,” said Gulnara Agamova, head of the Agency for Creative Industries.

    The partner of the course “Art. Practicum” is the Moscow School of Contemporary Art, which trains specialists for the local and global art scene – artists, curators, gallery owners, PR specialists in the field of culture, art managers. The technological partner will be the Russian digital platform Nethouse, whose experts will conduct a master class on creating portfolio websites.

    Course program

    On July 8, at a lecture by Zhanna Bobrakova (Moscow School of Contemporary Art), listeners will learn how to correctly identify the key theme of a project, explain its artistic significance and correlate it with the requirements of curators of potential exhibitions.

    On July 15, together with Alexey Mandych (Moscow School of Contemporary Art), participants will master methods of searching for relevant materials and sources for inspiration, as well as their integration into the concept of their project.

    On July 16, Vladimir Opredelenov (Deputy Director of the A.S. Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts and Head of the Department of IT in Culture at the National Research University Higher School of Economics) will reveal key strategies for forming and maintaining a professional reputation in the digital space.

    On July 22, Anastasia Khaustova (Spectate digital magazine) will teach listeners how to formulate the essence of a project in a short but expressive text for an application for participation in exhibitions.

    On July 24, under the guidance of Andrey Ermak (Nethouse), artists will learn about existing website trends, requirements for a modern portfolio website, and get acquainted with the stages of its creation using the Nethouse constructor as an example.

    On July 29, Mikhail Levin (Moscow School of Contemporary Art) will tell you how to find a visual solution, adapt an idea to a specific site, take into account important technical parameters, and will also introduce you to the basic principles of budgeting.

    On July 31, again with Andrey Yermak (Nethouse), participants will analyze the main mistakes in creating portfolio sites and key elements necessary for artists. In addition, they will study the mechanisms of promoting authors in the digital environment.

    On August 1, Lada Pozdeeva will talk about how artists can enter international markets in Asia. The lecture will share key directions and visual trends presented at the Art Basel Hong Kong and Art SG exhibitions.

    On August 15, residents and guests of the Moscow Workshops creative center will demonstrate practical and theoretical skills acquired during the course, and will also receive recommendations on how to refine their projects from industry experts.

    Thanks to the Agency for Creative Industries, favorable conditions are created in the capital for the development of representatives of various fields, such as cinema, fashion, design, contemporary art, video games, music and publishing. In addition, the Agency for Creative Industries promotes products on international markets and forms a positive image of the capital as an international center of creative industries.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/156153073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ14: The Joint Office for Investigation of Water Seepage Complaints

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ14: The Joint Office for Investigation of Water Seepage Complaints 
    Question:
     
    It is mentioned in the website of the Joint Office for Investigation of Water Seepage Complaints (JO) that “under normal circumstances, seepage caused by the penetration of rainwater through roofs, flat roofs, balconies, external walls or windows of a building or from leaking water pipes will not have public health implications and is not nuisance actionable by the Regional Joint Office under the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap. 132)”. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the number of requests for assistance relating to water seepage received by JO in each year since 2022 and, among them, the number of those in which the seepage was caused by the penetration of rainwater through roofs, flat roofs, balconies, external walls or windows of a building or from leaking water pipes, and thus could not be handled by JO;
     
    (2) as there are views that JO currently carries out water seepage investigations by issuing nuisance notices or orders under Cap. 132, the scope of which is confined to the wilful damage to drains, cesspools, wells or nuisance to any sanitary convenience, but the existing mechanism fails to effectively address the predicament faced by members of the public who have long been suffering from water seepage caused by defective waterproofing layers on rooftops, whether the authorities will consider amending Cap. 132 to gradually include important water seepage problems (e.g. rooftop leakage) in the definition of “nuisance”, so as to expand the enforcement responsibilities of JO, such that the affected members of the public will be provided with assistance; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (3) given that under section 34H of the Building Management Ordinance (Cap. 344) concerning the “duty to maintain property”, “where a person who owns any part of a building, has the right to the exclusive possession of any part of a building or has the exclusive right to the use, occupation or enjoyment of that part, as the case may be, but the deed of mutual covenant in respect of the building does not impose an obligation on that person to maintain the part in good repair and condition, that person shall maintain that part in good repair and condition”, whether the authorities will consider amending the relevant provisions to stipulate that all the owners or owners’ corporations owe an obligation to undertake maintenance works to keep the property in “good repair and condition”, and at the same time expanding the powers of JO to issue warnings to and impose penalties on defaulters; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
    Proper management and maintenance of private property is the responsibility of property owners. If water seepage occurs in private buildings, the owners concerned may first co-operate among themselves to engage professionals or consultancy firms for carrying out water seepage investigation to identify the source of seepage and conducting necessary repair works to fulfill owners’ responsibility of proper management, maintenance and repair of buildings. Consultancy firms or professionals are also available in the market to provide services for investigating and handling water seepage problems. A list of consultancy firms and experts providing professional advice and services on water seepage problems has been uploaded onto the websites of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) and the Buildings Department (BD) for public reference. When the water seepage condition concerned has caused health nuisance, risk to structural safety of the building or water waste, the Government will take enforcement action in accordance with the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap. 132) (PHMSO), the Buildings Ordinance (Cap. 123) (BO) and the Waterworks Ordinance (Cap. 102) respectively.
     
    If owners are unable to resolve water seepage problems in consultation with their neighbours, they can seek assistance from the Joint Office (JO) jointly set up by the FEHD and the BD. Through inter-departmental co-ordination, the JO seeks to identify the source of water seepage using one-stop and systematic testing methods and requires the owners concerned to carry out repair works by exercising the powers conferred by the law, leveraging the expertise of relevant departments and with co-operation of the owners or occupants concerned.
       
    Having consulted the Environment and Ecology Bureau (EEB), the FEHD and the Home Affairs Department, the replies to the various parts of the question are as follows:

    (1) If the water seepage constitutes a health nuisance, the JO will follow up on the case in accordance with the PHMSO and take criminal prosecution action as appropriate. If rainwater seepage through rooftops, podiums, balconies, external walls or windows of buildings poses building safety risks (e.g. concrete spalling from ceilings, corrosion of reinforcement), or if the seepage is related to defective drainage pipes such as rainwater pipes or foul water pipes of the buildings, the JO will refer the case to the BD for action in accordance with the BO. If water supply pipes are found to be defective and resulting in wastage of water supply, the JO will refer the case to the Water Supplies Department (WSD) for action under the Waterworks Ordinance. 
    For rooftop water seepage, the JO will refer the case to the BD under the aforementioned mechanism. Based on the investigation results, the BD will issue an advisory letter to the owner concerned to carry out water seepage investigations and follow-up actions as soon as possible. If the seepage is found to constitute building structural safety risk, the BD may issue a building repair order, an investigation order or a drainage repair order in accordance with the BO as appropriate. With regard to defective buildings or drains, a person is liable to an offence for failing to comply with a statutory order served under the law to carry out remedial works.
     
    Since the aforesaid mechanism for handling rooftop water seepage has been serving its purpose, the EEB considers that currently it is not necessary to amend the PHMSO. 
    The Public Health and Municipal Services (Amendment) Ordinance 2025 (the Amendment Ordinance) was passed by the Legislative Council and will come into operation on August 17, 2025. To expedite the handling of public health nuisances such as water seepage in buildings, the Amendment Ordinance will extend the hours during which public officers are allowed to enter premises from the existing 7am to 7pm to 7am to 10pm, and non-compliance with the Notice of Intended Entry will be an offence punishable by a fine up to level 2 (i.e. $5,000). To enhance the deterrent effect, the penalty for non-compliance with Nuisance Notices and Orders will be increased from a fine at Level 3 to Level 4 (i.e. $10,000 to $25,000) and from a fine at Level 4 to a fine at Level 5 (i.e. $25,000 to $50,000).
    Issued at HKT 16:01

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appointments of Under Secretary for Health, as well as Chairman and Chief Executive of Hospital Authority (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Government announced today (July 2) the following appointments:
     
     (1) Dr Cecilia Fan Yuen-man has been appointed as the Under Secretary for Health and will assume office on July 14, 2025;
     (2) Dr Libby Lee Ha-yun has been appointed as the Chief Executive of the Hospital Authority (HA) with effect from August 1, 2025, for a term of three years; and
     (3) Mr Henry Fan Hung-ling, the incumbent Chairman of the HA, has been reappointed for a term of one year with effect from December 1, 2025.
     
         The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, has appointed Dr Cecilia Fan as the Under Secretary for Health to succeed Dr Libby Lee.  Dr Lee has tendered her resignation and will leave her post on July 14, and Dr Fan will assume the post of Under Secretary for Health on the same day.
     
         The HA Board commenced open recruitment of its Chief Executive this January to succeed Dr Tony Ko, who will not seek reappointment upon completion of his contract at the end of July this year. The Selection Board was led by the HA Chairman and, after a global recruitment process and prudent consideration, recommended the appointment of Dr Lee as the Chief Executive of the HA. The appointment has been endorsed by the HA Board and approved by the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).
     
         Dr Lee will join the HA to assume the post of Chief Executive on August 1. Advice from the Advisory Committee on Post-office Employment for Former Chief Executives and Politically Appointed Officials has been sought on the appointment.
     
         The Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, welcomed the newly appointed Under Secretary for Health, Dr Fan, to the Health Bureau, and looked forward to jointly promoting healthcare reform and innovation in the HKSAR as well as improving and protecting public health with her. “Dr Fan has extensive experience in public health management, and participated in the co-ordination of anti-epidemic and disaster relief efforts on multiple occasions, receiving commendations from the Chief Executive and the National Health Commission and demonstrating the leadership and adaptability skills necessary to promote reform,” he said.
     
         Professor Lo also thanked Dr Lee, who will soon leave the post of the Under Secretary for Health and take up the post of the Chief Executive of the HA, and said, “Dr Lee joined the HA after graduation from medical school and had long been serving in the public healthcare system until she took up the post of the Under Secretary in 2022. Dr Lee has served as the Under Secretary for almost three years and has showcased her excellent leadership, presentation and interpersonal skills. She also has a thorough understanding of the challenges faced by the healthcare system and the strategies on a macro level and will surely lead, in her new capacity, the HA to drive reform and innovation, enhancing public healthcare services.
     
         “As the cornerstone of the healthcare system, the governance of the HA is the most important part of the deepening of the healthcare system reform. I am thankful to Mr Fan for continuing to serve as the Chairman and supporting the reform pursued by the Government. I trust that the HA, under the leadership of Mr Fan and Dr Lee, will further take forward the relevant work in the future to ensure that the public healthcare system will provide the public with healthcare services of higher quality, safety and effectiveness.
     
         “I would also like to take this opportunity to express once again my appreciation for Dr Ko, who most earnestly made significant contributions to the development of the public healthcare system over the years. I wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”
     
         Following are the biographical notes on the appointed Under Secretary for Health and Chief Executive of the HA:
     
    Dr Cecilia Fan Yuen-man
    �����
         Aged 57, Dr Cecilia Fan is currently Consultant Family Medicine (Elderly Health Service) of the Department of Health (DH).
     
         Dr Fan joined the DH in 1992 and has served therein for over 30 years.  Apart from family medicine and elderly health services, she co-ordinated and participated in work in various areas, including the Professional Development and Quality Assurance Service. She also took part in co-ordination work at medical posts of quarantine centres during multiple epidemics, including outbreaks of the severe acute respiratory syndrome in 2003, human swine influenza in 2009, and COVID-19during 2020-2022. In February 2023, Dr Fan led the DH’s medical team to join the HKSAR search and rescue team in frontline search and rescue work at the quake-stricken areas in Türkiye. She was the only person from the SAR who received the National Outstanding Individuals in the Foreign Medical Aid commendation by the National Health Commission.
     
         Dr Fan holds a medical degree from the University of Hong Kong and a master’s degree in public health from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, as well as a number of professional qualifications. She is trained as a family physician.

    Dr Libby Lee Ha-yun
    �����
         Aged 53, Dr Libby Lee has been the Under Secretary for Health since July 2022.
     
         Dr Lee joined the executive team of the HA in 2008 and was promoted to Director of Strategy and Planning in 2016.  During her tenure as the Director of Strategy and Planning, she oversaw the formulation of strategies and operational plans, the co-ordination of community and primary care services, and the planning and implementation of capital works projects in relation to the HA’s provision of healthcare services. Her duties at that post also included conducting studies and analyses in relation to demographic changes and challenges faced by the HA and projecting corresponding resource requirements. Dr Lee has served on various professional bodies including as Council Member for the Hong Kong College of Anaesthesiologists and the Hong Kong College of Community Medicine.
     
         Dr Lee holds a medical degree and a master’s degree in public health from the University of Hong Kong as well as a number of professional qualifications. She is trained as an anaesthesiologist and a practitioner in administrative medicine.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Post-office employment for Dr Libby Lee Ha-yun

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Post-office employment for Dr Libby Lee Ha-yun 
    Mr Simon Ip Sik-on (Chairman)
    Mrs Margaret Leung Ko May-yee
    Mr Cheng Yan-kee
    Ms Lo Wing-sze
    Dr Miranda Lou Lai-wah
    Issued at HKT 16:08

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –