NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 1st digital education week launches

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Education Choi Yuk-lin today officiated at the first Digital Education Week 2025 kick-off ceremony held in the Central Government Offices.

    Also attending was Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Department of Educational, Scientific & Technological Affairs First-level Inspector Liu Maozhou.

    To dovetail with the national development of digital education and to nurture talent for the innovation and technology (I&T) sector, the Chief Executive announced the formation of the Steering Committee on Strategic Development of Digital Education in the 2024 Policy Address. The committee has identified four key focuses and strategic directions.

    Speaking at the kick-off ceremony, the education chief said that the first Digital Education Week features a wide range of enriching programmes, including the annual flagship event for the education sector, Learning & Teaching Expo 2025, as well as the International Summit on the Use of AI (artificial intelligence) in Learning & Teaching Languages & Other Subjects (AIinLT) and Post-Summit Workshop Series.

    “These functions enable teachers to stay abreast of the latest developments in I&T and digital education, fostering professional exchanges and enhancing the effectiveness of learning and teaching.”

    The Learning & Teaching Expo 2025 will bring together global educational technology resources, set up nearly 600 booths, and host more than 270 keynote speeches, seminars and public demonstration classes to fully showcase the latest teaching solutions and technology trends.

    Meanwhile, the International Summit on AIinLT will gather education experts from home and abroad to discuss the practical application of AI in various disciplines through 100 paper presentations, teaching demonstrations and 11 in-depth workshops, helping teachers and students enhance their AI literacy.

    The Education Bureau also announced that the first batch of deliverables including the three projects under the e-Learning Ancillary Facilities Programme funded by a provision of $500 million from the Quality Education Fund were released today. 

    The deliverables of the projects will be exhibited at the Learning & Teaching Expo, the bureau said.

    The bueau outlined that the programme provides 22 innovative e-learning solutions for primary and secondary, kindergarten and special education students in Hong Kong, 18 of which incorporate AI technology.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Rajasthan records 128% excess rainfall than normal in June

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Rajasthan has recorded 128 per cent more rainfall than normal during June in the ongoing monsoon season, the weather department officials said on Tuesday.

    According to the Meteorological Department, heavy showers have filled ponds and dams across the state much earlier than usual. The rainfall has been particularly abundant in eastern Rajasthan, which received 160 per cent more than average, while western Rajasthan saw a 79 per cent increase.

    As a result, rivers and seasonal drains are flowing strongly, and water levels in many dams have risen significantly. In the Kota division, several smaller dams are already filled to capacity, while major reservoirs like Bisalpur, Parvati, and Mahi Bajaj Sagar have also received a healthy inflow.

    The Water Resources Department reports that Rajasthan’s dams currently hold 50.45 per cent of their total storage capacity – a significant jump from 32.53 per cent on the same date last year.

    Notably, 90 previously dry dams have started receiving water. Dams in the Jaipur division are at 37.05 per cent capacity. Historical data shows that over the past decade, eastern Rajasthan has consistently received more rainfall during the monsoon season compared to the west.

    The average annual rainfall for the state stands at 421.96 mm. According to the data, the highest rainfall of 747.24 mm was recorded in the last ten years in 2019, while the lowest rainfall was 506.28 mm in the year 2015. In the year 2024, 662.87 mm of rain was recorded. Meanwhile, Jaipur Meteorological Centre has warned of a low-pressure area over the northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining West Bengal, which is expected to influence Rajasthan’s weather over the coming week.

    This system is likely to bring moderate to heavy rainfall to over 27 districts, offering much-needed respite from heat and humidity. Authorities have urged caution in areas likely to receive heavy rain, including Dausa, Dholpur, Karauli, and Sawai Madhopur. Rainfall is also expected to intensify in Ajmer, Alwar, Jaipur, Kota, Bharatpur, and Udaipur.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Popular Science Tourism: A New Vector of Development

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    A foresight session dedicated to the development of popular science tourism was held at the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade. The main goal of the event was to develop a strategy for attracting foreign tourists interested in scientific achievements and technologies. This corresponds to the new vector of development of the city’s tourism industry, which was discussed during the accelerator “International Tourism Products of Russia”. The project is being implemented by the Center of Competence in Tourism and Hospitality with the support of the Committee for Tourism Development of St. Petersburg and the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation.

    The development of popular science tourism at the international level is an important step towards strengthening cultural and scientific ties between Russia and other countries. We strive to create tourism products that will be interesting and useful to guests from different parts of the world, allowing them to learn more about Russian science, technology and innovation. Our task is to make St. Petersburg a center of attraction for everyone interested in science and striving for new knowledge, – noted Marina Morozova, General Director of the Center of Competence in Tourism and Hospitality.

    The foresight session was attended by representatives of tour operators, the museum community, research institutes, including the Almazov National Medical Research Center, and leading universities. The moderators were associate professors of the Higher School of Service and Trade of the IPMEiT Irina Kapustina and Ksenia Pasternak.

    The projects were assessed by the expert opinion of the General Director of the international hospitality school ACORN Hospitality and Tourism Business School Olga Weiss, the General Director of the travel agency Tolstoy House Sofia Sheynina, the head of the paid services department of the Almazov National Medical Research Center Elena Zolotukhina, the public representative of the Agency for Strategic Initiatives Svetlana Selishcheva, the President of the Association of Participants in the Sphere of Medical and Health Tourism Sofia Mozokina, and the author of the program Management of State Programs and Implementation of National Projects in the Russian Federation Denis Askinadze.

    Unlike a tourism product with a pronounced cultural component, our project is focused on the scientific, industrial and scientific and production potential of the city. In the future, we also hope to attract tourists as future students, which is especially interesting for educational organizations. But even if they do not choose our universities, popular science tourism will become a powerful tool for popularizing science and a kind of soft power demonstrating the scientific, technical and scientific and production potential of our country, explained the Chairman of the Committee for Tourism Development of St. Petersburg Evgeny Pankevich.

    Participants analyzed current trends and prospects for the development of popular science tourism, developed tourist routes and educational programs aimed, in particular, at attracting tourists from the Middle East, the CIS and Vietnam.

    Events like today’s foresight session play a key role in shaping the strategy for the development of popular science and industrial tourism. The Higher School of Service and Trade, as part of its activities project office “Industrial Tourism – Polytech” actively develops this important market segment, providing training for qualified personnel and promoting Russian scientific and technological heritage. We are convinced that such activities will significantly not only increase the tourist attractiveness of the region, but will also contribute to enhancing the brand of Russian industry, as well as strengthen Russia’s image as a leader in the field of science and technology, – noted the Director of the Higher School of Service and Trade Olga Voronova.

    The meeting culminated in the development of a passport for a unique tourism product in the field of popular science tourism for inquisitive travelers from all over the world.

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Pensana Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to Headline African Mining Week (AMW), Amidst Rollout of Angola’s Flagship Rare Earth Mine


    Download logo

    Tim George, CEO of UK mining firm Pensana will participate at the upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) 2025 conference – Africa’s premier gathering for mining stakeholders – as a speaker. George will contribute to a high-level panel discussion entitled Critical Minerals: Driving Renewable Development in Africa, highlighting the role of African energy transition metals such as lithium, cobalt, copper and rare earths in global decarbonization.

    African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    George’s participation at AMW follows several significant milestones for Pensana, including a June 2025 Memorandum of Understanding with Japanese conglomerate Toyota Tsusho Corporation for the offtake of 20,000 tons of ultra-clean Mixed Rare Earth Carbonate over five years. The company also has an existing offtake agreement with Japanese trading house Hanwa, further reinforcing Longonjo’s global appeal. The project is expected to supply 5% of the world’s magnet metal rare earths used in wind turbines and electric vehicles, producing 20,000 tons per annum during phase one and up to 40,000 tons annually during phase two. AMW presents an opportunity for George to meet potential buyers and strategic partners to advance Longonjo’s impact on the global rare earths market.

    AMW will enable George to update market stakeholders on Longonjo’s latest financing, engineering and construction developments. Pensana has successfully secured substantial financing for the Longonjo project: $2 million from M&G Investment Management in May 2025; a $25 million facility from Angola’s Sovereign Wealth Fund; and a $268 million raise for phase one development, with support from institutions such as ABSA Bank and the Africa Finance Corporation. In May 2025, the company also began construction of the mine, with first production anticipated in late 2026. In April 2025, Pensana released an updated ore reserve and mine-life estimate, indicating Longonjo’s potential to hold 22 million tons of rare earths in reserves. The mine’s life is estimated at 20 years.

    Under theme, From extraction to Beneficiation: Unlocking Africa’s Mineral Wealth, AMW will host George and key African mining stakeholders, policymakers and global partners to discuss and maximize prospects within Africa’s mining value chain.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: /China Spotlight/ Toys for the Elderly Boost China’s ‘Silver’ Economy

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    HANGZHOU, July 1 (Xinhua) — In a playroom at a nursing home in China, several sprightly seniors gathered to play table hockey, competing in wits and skill, savoring every moment.

    Once considered a child’s play, these educational games are quickly becoming the latest craze among seniors.

    As China’s population ages at an accelerated rate, the once-overlooked consumer niche of games and toys for the elderly is emerging as a new pillar of the booming silver economy.

    Guan Weijian, a toy merchant in the eastern Chinese city of Yiwu, known as the “supermarket of the world,” quickly saw the wind blowing when he noticed such changes.

    Over the past year, his online store has seen a boom in demand for fitness gear and cognitive-development games and toys among older shoppers. Consumers aged 50 and up now make up 30 percent of his user base.

    “Our two best-selling toys are in the fitness and puzzle categories. They are low-impact yet fun, perfect for seniors to exercise or while away the time,” says Guan Weijian.

    “In fact, there are similarities between toys for the elderly and children’s toys in terms of developing reflexes, grip strength and coordination. In fact, some children’s toys can be easily adapted for the elderly with just a few simple changes,” Guan Weijian added.

    Realizing the potential of the senior toys sector as a promising niche, he decided to take advantage of the opportunity. In just three months after launching more than 10 products designed specifically for senior users, sales at his store far exceeded expectations.

    Searches for “toys for the elderly” on Taobao, one of China’s leading e-commerce platforms, grew 124 percent year-on-year, and transaction volume increased by more than 70 percent. Consumers aged 55 and above now make up an increasing proportion of shoppers, and their purchase frequency is increasing.

    As the market expands, more and more toy manufacturers across China are shifting their focus to meet the needs of older consumers.

    According to Cheng Xin of Taobao’s toys and collectibles section, there are many new shops selling toys for the elderly popping up on the platform, some of which are newly established and many of which are converted from former children’s toy stores.

    “Toys are no longer exclusive to kids, nor are they pop culture icons. They are a lifelong hobby that can be enjoyed by a wide range of consumers of all ages,” Cheng Xin said, adding that Taobao plans to launch a special toy segment for seniors, providing them with customized operational support.

    The booming market of toys for the elderly has not only created new growth points for consumption, but also contributed to a profound transformation of the traditional production chain.

    A particularly striking example is Yunhe County in Zhejiang Province, East China, widely known as the “birthplace of China’s wooden toys.”

    Based on years of industrial experience, Yunhe County has now deeply integrated the wooden toy industry with the elderly care industry, forming an innovative industrial chain focusing on intellectual, health and entertainment products.

    The key to this transformation lies in the shift from “fun” to “functionality.” To date, local manufacturers have developed more than 200 wooden toys designed to improve hand-foot coordination and slow down memory loss in older adults.

    According to Yin Qian, president of Zhejiang Mimi Zhikang Technology Co., the company has developed more than 100 wooden puzzle toys that are both entertaining and mentally stimulating.

    To enhance the cognitive and rehabilitation properties of its products, the company collaborated with the Health Science Center of Xi’an Jiaotong University and the Alzheimer’s Disease Prevention Group located in Shaoxing, Zhejiang Province.

    To date, the company has received more than 30 patents and supplies products to more than 500 senior care facilities across the country.

    Meanwhile, Yunhe is also targeting international markets. In recent years, the county has expanded the export of its wooden toys to senior schools, nursing homes and community centers overseas.

    “In 2024, our products were successfully exported to Germany, Japan and other markets, where they were warmly received by elderly users,” Yin Qian said.

    In the first quarter of this year, sales of wooden toys aimed at the elderly rose 50 percent year-on-year.

    China’s elderly population is projected to grow by more than 10 million a year over the next decade, according to the Ministry of Civil Affairs. The silver economy’s share of China’s GDP is expected to rise to 9 percent by 2035, from 6 percent today.

    Data from iiMedia Research shows that China’s elderly care market will reach 12 trillion yuan (about $1.68 trillion) in 2023, up 16.5 percent year-on-year. The country’s silver economy is projected to reach about 30 trillion yuan by 2035, accounting for about 10 percent of GDP.

    Innovations in niche segments are opening up new opportunities in the silver economy, said Zhang Jinsong, secretary general of the Committee on Education for the Elderly of the Chinese Gerontological Society.

    The “silver” economy is poised to move beyond basic needs to consumption based on quality and pleasure, which will open up enormous potential,” he added. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Exclusive: China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project opens new prospects for development of transport and logistics in the region — Uzbek expert

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    Tashkent, July 1 (Xinhua) — The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project is not just a large-scale infrastructure initiative, but a key strategic corridor that will help strengthen regional connectivity and economic transformation in Central Asia, Narbuta Babakhalov, an adviser to the chairman of the board of Uzbekistan Railways and a doctor of economic sciences, said in an exclusive interview with Xinhua.

    “The project attracts increased attention from Uzbekistan, as it connects the East and the West, opening up new prospects for the development of transport and logistics in the region,” the expert noted. According to him, the joint implementation of this project by China, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan clearly demonstrates the high level of political trust and the spirit of pragmatic partnership.

    N. Babahalov emphasized the strategic importance of the route for Uzbekistan. The railway will significantly reduce the time of cargo delivery to South and Southeast Asia, reduce logistics costs and overcome the limitations of current transport routes. “This project strengthens our country’s position as an important transport hub in Central Asia and supports the implementation of the national strategy “Openness to the East,” he said.

    The expert also noted that the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway is becoming part of the conjugation of the Belt and Road Initiative with the sustainable development programs of the countries of the region. “We see how this project contributes to political coordination, expansion of cross-border cooperation and deepening of regional integration,” the expert emphasized.

    He paid special attention to China’s contribution to the development of the project. “The Chinese side provides advanced technologies and equipment, demonstrating respect for the interests of Uzbekistan and actively involving local resources and specialists. This contributes to the creation of jobs, the transfer of knowledge and the formation of production chains in the region,” he said.

    “Uzbekistan is ready to work with China and other partners to facilitate the successful implementation of the project, which has impressive potential that can bring real benefits to the peoples of the region,” N. Babakhalov concluded. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: IOM and Bolt Join Forces to Support Migrant Workers in the Mobility and Delivery Sectors

    Source: International Organization for Migration (IOM)

    Geneva/Valletta, 1 July 2025 – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and Bolt, a leading European platform for ride-hailing and food delivery services, have signed a global agreement aimed at providing integration support for migrants working in the mobility and delivery sectors. The partnership, Bridging the Gap – Integrating Migrants, will start with a pilot project in Malta that will serve as a scalable model for other countries.  

    “Migration is a reality that shapes our economies and our lives,” said Catalina Devandas, IOM Senior Director of Partnerships. “It is both a resource and an opportunity for people and economies alike. This partnership with Bolt shows what can happen when the private sector steps up to create fair, safe, and dignified migration pathways that meet real market needs and protect workers’ rights.”  

    With operations in over 600 cities across more than 50 countries, including in Europe, Africa, Southeast Asia and the Americas, Bolt’s broad geographic footprint strengthens the potential of the partnership to create lasting impact across diverse labour markets.  

    The project aims to empower migrant workers to better integrate into the local economy by working closely with private sector actors, developing tools and training for fleet employers, and providing targeted support. The partnership also seeks to foster social and labour market cohesion by ensuring migrant workers are fairly treated and supported by fleet partners.  

    “The success of several economic sectors increasingly relies on a diverse workforce,” said Eirini Zafeiratou, Vice President of Policy and Regulatory Affairs at Bolt. “Bolt’s platform enables earning opportunities for many individuals. With the support of IOM, we will make further efforts to foster better integration of migrant workers in the countries where we operate.”  

    In Malta, the pilot will offer concrete assistance to employers and workers alike, from developing tools and training that promote fair working conditions to providing practical support and integration pathways tailored to the ride-hailing and food delivery sector.  

    The project will also engage with a broad range of stakeholders, including public authorities, to ensure that it aligns with national labour market needs, policies, and priorities. In parallel, it will generate evidence to inform future policies on labour mobility at both the national and international levels.  

    By bringing together IOM’s global migration expertise and Bolt’s operational reach, the partnership aims to create a more responsible model for labour mobility – one that addresses market needs while protecting the rights, safety, and dignity of migrant workers.   

    Bolt is supporting the project through the Bolt Urban Fund, a social impact programme designed to enhance the social and economic impact of shared mobility and delivery services worldwide.  

    For more information, please visit IOM’s Media Centre

    Or contact Bolt Sugandha Bhandari, Regional PR Manager, at sugandha.bhandari@bolt.eu. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Small Business Champions Awards 2025

    Source: World Trade Organization – WTO (video statements)

    On 27 June, the Informal Working Group on Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) marked MSME Day, announcing two new Small Business Champions: SilaiWali (India) and NetZero Pallets (Viet Nam).

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqmZ59VjqfU

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) advances strategic plan with key performance indicator refinement

    Source: ASEAN

    HA NOI, 24 June 2025 – The Twelfth Meeting of the Ad Hoc Working Group to develop the ASCC Strategic Plan (AHWG) was convened on 23-24 June in Ha Noi, Viet Nam. The meeting was co-chaired by Dr. Christina Yeo Ken Yin, Undersecretary of the International Relations Division (Culture), Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture of Malaysia, and Mike Mohen A. Padilla, Section Chief of External Affairs Division, Policy Development and Planning Bureau of the Philippines. The two-day meeting was convened to consolidate and refine the key performance indicators for each strategic measure of the ASCC Strategic Plan, based on inputs from the ASCC Sectoral Bodies.
     
    In his welcoming remarks, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Viet Nam, Vu Chien Thang, underscored the significance of the adoption of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, commended the efforts of the Ad-hoc Working Group, and reaffirmed Viet Nam’s commitment to supporting the Strategic Plan’s implementation through coordinated development of the Results Framework and operationalisation of its communication plan.
     
    In her opening remarks, Dr Christina, Ad Hoc Working Group (AHWG) Co-Chair from Malaysia, congratulated members of AHWG on the successful adoption of the ASCC Strategic Plan by the ASEAN Leaders during the 46th ASEAN Summit held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in May 2025. As part of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, the ASCC Strategic Plan aims to foster a resilient, innovative, dynamic, and people-centered ASEAN.
     
    The meeting commenced with the drafting of the ASCC Results Framework, which will translate the ASCC Strategic Plan into concrete and measurable indicators with baseline data and targets to support its implementation, monitoring and reporting.
     
    Mike Mohen A. Padilla, Ad Hoc Working Group Co-Chair from the Philippines, highlighted that a clear and inclusive Results Framework is essential to turning the ASCC Strategic Plan into real, measurable progress. He emphasised that its values rest not only in technical complexity but also in guiding impactful, people-centred actions toward the ASEAN Community Vision 2045.
     
    The meeting also reviewed the timeline for finalising the ASCC Results Framework and reflected on lessons learned from the monitoring and evaluation of the ASCC Blueprint 2025. Discussion highlighted the importance of consultations with ASCC and cross-pillar sectoral bodies who are part of the Strategic Plan’s implementation. The Meeting also noted the planned capacity-building for ASCC Sectoral Bodies on results framework and theory of change, as well as the updates on communication and outreach initiatives for the ASCC Strategic Plan.
     
    Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for the ASCC, San Lwin, highlighted the importance of finalising the ASCC Results Framework prior to the start of the ASCC Strategic Plan’s implementation as it will serve as a critical tool and benchmark for its progress.
     
    The Meeting was supported by the Government of Australia through the Development of the ASCC Results Framework and Baselining of the ASCC Strategic Plan Project under the Australia for ASEAN Futures Initiative (Aus4ASEAN Futures).

    The post ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) advances strategic plan with key performance indicator refinement appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Foreign Minister Lin hosts welcome luncheon for former Japanese Economic Security Minister and current Representative Kobayashi

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Foreign Minister Lin hosts welcome luncheon for former Japanese Economic Security Minister and current Representative Kobayashi

    Date：2025-06-27
    Data Source：TAIWAN-JAPAN RELATIONS ASSOCIATION

    June 27, 2025 
    No. 223 

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung hosted a welcome luncheon on June 26 for Takayuki Kobayashi, former Japanese Minister in Charge of Economic Security and current member of the House of Representatives. They exchanged views on issues such as integrated diplomacy, response strategies for countering gray-zone tactics, and Taiwan-Japan cooperation in third countries.

    Minister Lin stated that since assuming office, he had been proactively implementing integrated diplomacy. He said that the policy combined the strengths of the public and private sectors to expand Taiwan’s international presence and promote the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project, which aimed to deepen substantive and mutually beneficial relations with diplomatic allies and like-minded countries. He added that Taiwan was pleased that the Japanese government had recently bolstered strategic partnerships with Palau, Paraguay, Guatemala, and other diplomatic allies of Taiwan, and thanked Japan for actively advancing cooperative relations with Taiwan’s allies. He emphasized that Taiwan and Japan faced similar regional security and economic challenges and that the two sides should enhance collaboration and joint strategic responses.

    Furthermore, he indicated that the industries of Taiwan and Japan were highly complementary and that, in the face of China’s aggressive pursuit of global high-tech industry dominance, Taiwan and Japan should work together to build non-red supply chains and boost economic resilience and industrial competitiveness to ensure that democracies steadily keep pace with technological developments worldwide.

    Representative Kobayashi stated that Taiwan and Japan had a close friendship in terms of history, the economy, and personnel exchanges. He expressed hope that the visit would increase his understanding of Taiwan. In addition, he affirmed his desire to help further Taiwan-Japan ties in the future, which would contribute to safeguarding regional peace and stability.

    Also in attendance at the luncheon were Taipei University of Marine Technology President Lu Yao-zhi, Institute for National Defense and Security Research Chief Secretariat Office Director Lin Yen-hung, and Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office Chief Representative Kazuyuki Katayama. The atmosphere was lively and cordial. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Thai court suspends PM from duty pending case seeking her dismissal

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Thailand’s Constitutional Court on Tuesday suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from duty pending a case seeking her dismissal, adding to mounting pressure on a government under fire on multiple fronts.

    The court in a statement said it had accepted a petition from 36 senators that accuses Paetongtarn of dishonesty and breaching ethnical standards in violation of the constitution over the leak of a politically sensitive telephone conversation with Cambodia’s influential former leader Hun Sen.

    The government is expected to be led by a deputy prime minister in a caretaker capacity while the court decides the case against Paetongtarn, who will remain in the cabinet as the new culture minister following a reshuffle. The government did not immediately respond to a request for comment on her suspension.

    The leaked call with the veteran Cambodian politician triggered domestic outrage and has left Paetongtarn’s coalition with a razer-thin majority, with a key party abandoning the alliance and expected to soon seek a no confidence vote in parliament, as protest groups demand the premier resigns.

    During a June 15 call intended to defuse escalating border tensions with Cambodia, Paetongtarn, 38, kowtowed before Hun Sen and criticised a Thai army commander, a red line in a country where the military has significant clout. She has apologised and said her remarks were a negotiating tactic.

    FAMILY CRISIS

    Paetongtarn’s battles after only 10 months in power underline the declining strength of the Pheu Thai Party, the populist juggernaut of the billionaire Shinawatra dynasty that has dominated Thai elections since 2001, enduring military coups and court rulings that have toppled multiple governments and prime ministers.

    It has been a baptism of fire for political novice Paetongtarn, who thrust into power as Thailand’s youngest premier and replacement for Srettha Thavisin, who was dismissed by the Constitutional Court for violating ethics by appointing a minister who was once jailed.

    Paetongtarn’s government has also been struggling to revive a stuttering economy and her popularity has declined sharply, with a June 19-25 opinion poll released at the weekend showing her approval rating sinking to 9.2% from 30.9% in March.

    Paetongtarn is not alone in her troubles, with influential father Thaksin Shinawatra, the driving force behind her government, facing legal hurdles of his own in two different courts this month.

    Divisive tycoon Thaksin, according to his lawyer, appeared at his first hearing at Bangkok’s Criminal Court on Tuesday on charges he insulted Thailand’s powerful monarchy, a serious offence punishable by up to 15 years in prison if found guilty. Thaksin denies the allegations and has repeatedly pledged allegiance to the crown.

    The case stems from a 2015 media interview Thaksin gave while in self-imposed exile, from which he returned in 2023 after 15 years abroad to serve a prison sentence for conflicts of interest and abuse of power.

    Thaksin, 75, dodged jail and spent six months in hospital detention on medical grounds before being released on parole in February last year. The Supreme Court will this month scrutinise that hospital stay and could potentially send him back to jail.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOFA response to IPAC statement condemning China for alleged plot targeting Vice President Hsiao

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    MOFA response to IPAC statement condemning China for alleged plot targeting Vice President Hsiao

    June 27, 2025  The Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) issued a statement on June 27 condemning China for an alleged plot to engineer a collision with a car carrying Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim during a visit to the Czech Republic in March 2024 when she was serving as vice president-elect. It denounced China for conspiring to engage in an act of state terrorism and said that the planning of such an overt act of politically motivated violence in a foreign country represented the crossing of a threshold and disregard for international diplomatic norms. Expressing solidarity with Vice President Hsiao and with Taiwanese citizens who may be subject to coercion by the Chinese state while traveling abroad, the statement also emphasized that Taiwan’s future should be determined by the Taiwanese people and called upon the governments of IPAC member countries to condemn the PRC’s unacceptable actions.
     
    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs sincerely appreciates IPAC taking a stand and urging nations to strongly condemn China for seeking to engage in unlawful activities in other countries that amount to state terrorism. The contempt for international diplomatic norms, violent disregard for personal safety, and deliberate and worsening attempts to suppress Taiwan displayed by China in its actions are a clear demonstration of its exceedingly disgraceful and unscrupulous behavior. This is unacceptable to the international community. MOFA once again strongly condemns China and solemnly demands that it issue an apology.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China-Laos Railway sees 8.8% cargo growth H1 2025

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

    An international cargo train of China-Laos Railway is pictured at Wangjiaying West Station in Kunming, southwest China’s Yunnan Province, on Jan. 2, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The China-Laos Railway transported 3 million tons of cargo in the first half of 2025, marking an 8.8 percent increase compared to the same period last year, the local Pasaxon newspaper in Vientiane reported on Monday.

    Since its opening, the railway has become a key export route for Laos and neighboring countries. To boost exports and improve freight efficiency, it prioritizes Lao goods, especially agricultural products, and provides full support to operators upon request, regardless of shipment size.

    Service improvements include increasing train routes and container availability, raising train load capacity from 2,500 to 2,800 tons, and streamlining customs procedures through enhanced coordination with border officials.

    In addition, the China-Laos Railway is also collaborating with railway authorities in China, Thailand, and Malaysia to launch a cross-border freight service. This initiative aims to connect ASEAN countries more effectively through Laos, further integrating regional trade routes.

    Key exports from Laos to China include fruits, cassava, rubber, and minerals. The variety of products transported has grown dramatically, expanding from just over 10 types to more than 3,000 types.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Thailand’s Constitutional Court suspends PM Paetongtarn from duty: Media

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

    Thailand’s Constitutional Court suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on Tuesday after accepting a petition accusing her of constitutional violation.

    A panel of judges voted to accept the petition and order Paetongtarn to stop performing her duties as prime minister starting Tuesday pending a final ruling, the court said in a statement.

    The decision comes after a group of senators last month filed the petition accusing Paetongtarn of breaching the constitution by a serious violation of ethical standards over a telephone conversation with Cambodian Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen on the border issue.

    Paetongtarn, the 38-year-old Pheu Thai Party leader and the daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, was appointed last August to become Thailand’s youngest and second female prime minister after winning a parliamentary vote.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • EAM Jaishankar gives firsthand account on Trump’s claims on ceasefire

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday clarified India’s stand and response on U.S. President Donald Trump’s claim that he used trade to force India and Pakistan to agree to a ceasefire during the escalation following India’s Operation Sindoor in May.

    Speaking at a fireside chat with Newsweek CEO Dev Pragad, Jaishankar recounted the sequence of events, asserting that there was no linkage between trade negotiations and ceasefire talks. “I can tell you that I was in the room when U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance spoke to Prime Minister Modi on the night of May 9, saying that the Pakistanis would launch a very massive assault on India,” he said.

    He emphasized that no trade-related leverage was discussed during that call. “We did not accept certain things, and the Prime Minister was impervious to what the Pakistanis were threatening to do,” Jaishankar noted. “On the contrary, he (PM Modi) indicated that there would be a response from us.”

    Jaishankar confirmed that Pakistan did indeed launch a massive attack that night, to which India responded swiftly. The following morning, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio contacted him to inform that Pakistan was ready to talk. Later that day, Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations, Major General Kashif Abdullah, directly contacted his Indian counterpart, Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai, to request a ceasefire.

    “I can only share what I personally experienced,” Jaishankar stated.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Special offers for July 1 supported

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Deputy Chief Secretary Cheuk Wing-hing, Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong, Deputy Secretary for Justice Cheung Kwok-kwan and Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Erick Tsang visited a Chinese restaurant in Wan Chai today after attending the flag-raising ceremony and reception to celebrate the 28th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

    They enjoyed tea and July 1 dining discounts to commemorate Hong Kong’s return to the motherland.

    The officials ordered a variety of dim sum and had morning tea, including shrimp dumplings at a 29% discount. The atmosphere there was lively and members of the public were enthusiastic about the dining discount activities.

    The catering sector special offers have received strong support, with the number of participating restaurants increasing each year, from more than 1,400 in 2023, to more than 2,200 last year, and reaching 4,100 this year.

    Mr Cheuk, Mr Wong and Mr Tsang then enjoyed the Free Tram Day offer and arrived at Lee Tung Avenue where they experienced the festive atmosphere featuring free distributions of ice cream, popcorn and panda-shaped balloons.

    The current-term Government pioneered the practice of turning the anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong SAR into a festival, which received positive responses from all sectors of society. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Advisor to Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Qatar in Contact with All Parties to Reach a Broader Nuclear Agreement with Iran

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Doha, June 30 (QNA) – Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari has affirmed that the State of Qatar is deeply involved in efforts to reach an agreement on the Iranian nuclear issue, especially after the ceasefire between Israel and Iran and the end of the escalation witnessed in the region.

    He said that there are currently no talks on a ceasefire in Gaza.

    During the weekly media briefing organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Al Ansari said Qatari interest, as well as that of various countries around the world, is now directed towards reaching a broader, more comprehensive nuclear agreement between Iran and the United States of America, noting that Qatari contacts are ongoing daily between various parties in this regard.

    He added there are no talks about a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, but the State of Qatar, along with its mediation partners, the Arab Republic of Egypt and the United States, continue to communicate with various parties to reach a formula that will enable us to return to negotiations.

    The Advisor to the Prime Minister and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza in light of the current Israeli escalation, saying, it has become very difficult for us, as an international community, to accept that this crisis continues for nearly two years, and that these human losses remain insignificant figures in the media.

    He said that more than 500 martyrs have fallen so far as a result of standing in lines waiting for aid, noting that there are very disturbing reports published in the Israeli press, speaking of orders issued to Israeli soldiers to open fire against unarmed individuals who were standing regularly waiting to receive humanitarian aid.

    He emphasized that this catastrophe has exceeded all possible limits from a humanitarian standpoint, emphasizing that it is unacceptable to continue linking the humanitarian aspect with the security aspect in this context.

    He noted that the state is continuing its contacts with various parties with the aim of reaching a new mechanism, which is difficult to comment on at this time.

    He stressed that this process is constructive and ongoing, and is subject to formulas that are being developed based on developments on the ground.

    In a related context, Al Ansari explained that the State of Qatar sees positive American positions to push for a return to negotiations on Gaza, saying in this regard the US administration has brought us to the longest ceasefire during this war.

    We also saw how the US administration led to a ceasefire between Iran and Israel and obligated both parties to abide by it.

    Today, we see renewed, positive language coming from the United States to reach an agreement, and therefore we are very optimistic about this language.

    We believe that there are very clear American intentions regarding a final resolution to this crisis.

    However, there are complications on the ground that are evident to everyone, he added.

    He emphasized that the State of Qatar will continue to pressure, through its partners and relations in the international community, to separate negotiations from the entry of humanitarian aid, saying there is nothing preventing the entry of aid into the Gaza Strip except Israeli intransigence, and therefore the Israeli position today cannot be accepted. 

    Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari pointed out that the entire world sends humanitarian aid, but it does not enter the Gaza Strip.

    Qatar’s humanitarian aid, like international aid, is only a few meters away from reaching those in need, as it is in the Egyptian city of El Arish.

    He called on the international community to compel Israel to open all crossings and allow aid into the Strip without any restrictions or conditions.

    Al Ansari said the system of international agencies and institutions is present on the borders of the Gaza Strip, and it was clearly functioning and did not lead to the humanitarian tragedy we see today in the delivery of aid.

    This system can achieve its goals and is ready to be implemented immediately once the Israeli side allows it, he said.

    He reiterated that there is no specific timeframe for announcing a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, especially since the ongoing discussions have not yet got to the level they reached previously, and the accumulated language does not indicate the possibility of reaching an agreement now.

    Al Ansari noted that the Iranian president offered an official apology to the State of Qatar, its leadership and people, during a phone call he held with HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, noting that the main guarantee against a return to such escalation lies in ensuring that there is no escalation in the region.

    He further said that the State of Qatar is working directly towards finding a way to reach a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and then reach a general agreement in the region that ensures the absence of any threat from any party there.

    He said that the irresponsible Israeli position of continuing the escalation in this manner will result in unforeseen challenges, and the region today is not far from escalation, even if a ceasefire is the main theme at this time.

    He called on all parties in the region to engage in positive action to ensure the continuation of the ceasefire and de-escalation.

    The Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed the State of Qatar’s appreciation for the 49th Extraordinary Meeting of the Ministerial Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), held in Doha one day after the Iranian attack on Al-Udeid Air Base, which clearly affirmed the condemnation of this attack, GCC solidarity in this regard, and the GCC position in support of diplomatic efforts.

    He noted that the statement issued at the meeting welcomed the ceasefire between Iran and Israel and the Qatari role in this regard, adding that there is a clear regional position on the need to de-escalate the situation in the region.

    Al Ansari also addressed the calls received by HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani from Their Excellencies the Prime Ministers and Foreign Ministers of several brotherly and friendly countries, during which they expressed their great solidarity with the State of Qatar and their condemnation of the Iranian attack on Al-Udeid Air Base.

    He expressed Qatar’s high appreciation for this great international solidarity with Qatar.

    Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari noted that HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs will be in the Republic of Ireland tomorrow, Tuesday, to receive the Tipperary Peace Award, a prestigious global honor in this field.

    The award is presented annually in recognition of humanitarian efforts and activities aimed at building peace globally.

    He explained that this award, presented by the Tipperary Peace Convention, aims to honor individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the fields of peace, justice, and human rights around the world.

    He highlighted that this recognition reflects the significant role played by HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs in various mediations, and also underscores the important position enjoyed by the State of Qatar in global peacemaking.

    Al Ansari noted that this award represents an opportunity to affirm Qatar’s commitment to its role not only as a peacemaker, but also as an engineer of global peace, saying that this is what Qatar is currently doing, whether through contacts regarding the Iranian nuclear issue, the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, or between the Congo and Rwanda, or various regional and international issues.

    He pointed out that Qatar participated in the World Humanitarian Forum, held in London on June 26, where HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad represented Qatar at the meeting.

    In her speech during the meeting, Her Excellency emphasized the importance of adhering to a principled and consistent approach to humanitarian work, especially in light of escalating global crises and challenges.

    Her Excellency also stressed that adherence to international humanitarian law and relevant agreements is not an option, but rather a legal and moral obligation to ensure the protection of civilians and the preservation of human dignity. She affirmed that the State of Qatar is committed to making every effective effort to promote dialogue and strive to achieve stability.

    Al Ansari noted that on the sidelines of the meeting, HE the Minister of State for International Cooperation met with a number of figures, including CEO of the World Humanitarian Forum, HE Lord of Wimbledon, former Minister of State for the Middle East, South Asia and United Nations at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office Lord Tariq Ahmad, and member of the Advisory Board of the World Humanitarian Forum Richard Hawkes.

    He noted that the State of Qatar participated in the signing ceremony of the peace agreement between the Republic of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which took place on June 27 and 28 in Washington, D.C., facilitated by the United States.

    HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi represented the State of Qatar at the signing ceremony.

    His Excellency expressed Qatar’s welcome of the conclusion of this agreement and commended the sincere will and genuine commitment shown by both parties to peaceful and diplomatic solutions.

    He added that His Excellency also expressed Qatar’s pride in contributing positively to facilitating the achievement of this agreement through hosting several negotiation sessions between the two parties, as a result of Doha’s hosting of the trilateral meeting between HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani; HE President of the Republic of Rwanda, Paul Kagame and HE President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Felix Tshisekedi in March 2025, which constituted a significant milestone for direct dialogue and confidence-building between the two sides.

    His Excellency also commended the constructive role played by the United States of America in completing these efforts and reaching the Agreement.

    Al Ansari added that HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs met in Washington, with HE Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs of the United States of America, Allison Hooker, and with HE Chairman of the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Senator Jim Risch, along with a number of Senators. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • ‘Digital India, a people’s movement’: PM Modi charts roadmap for next decade

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday lauded the completion of ten years of the Digital India initiative, describing it as a journey that has transformed governance, empowered citizens, and positioned India as a global leader in digital technology.

    In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, “Today is a historic day as we mark #10YearsOfDigitalIndia! Ten years ago, Digital India began as an initiative to transform our nation into a digitally empowered and technologically advanced society. A decade later, we stand witness to a journey that has touched countless lives and ushered in a new era of empowerment.”

    Launched in 2015, the Digital India mission sought to bridge the country’s vast digital divide and make technology accessible to every citizen. Reflecting on the initiative’s impact, PM Modi said that India’s progress is visible not only in “data and dashboards” but also in the daily lives of 140 crore Indians.

    “While decades were spent doubting the ability of Indians to use technology, we changed this approach and trusted the ability of Indians to use technology,” PM Modi said in an article shared on LinkedIn.

    Expanding Access and Inclusion

    In 2014, India had about 25 crore internet connections. That figure has now grown to over 97 crore, with high-speed internet reaching remote villages and forward military outposts alike. The Prime Minister pointed out that over 42 lakh kilometres of Optical Fibre Cable now connect the country, equivalent to eleven times the distance between Earth and the Moon.

    The success of India’s real-time digital payments system, UPI, has also been a highlight. UPI now handles over 100 billion transactions a year, accounting for nearly half of all real-time digital payments worldwide.

    Through Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT), the government has directly transferred over ₹44 lakh crore to citizens, saving nearly ₹3.48 lakh crore by eliminating middlemen. Schemes like SVAMITVA have issued more than 2.4 crore property cards and mapped over 6.4 lakh villages, providing land ownership security to millions.

    Driving Entrepreneurship and Innovation

    Highlighting the impact on small businesses and entrepreneurs, PM Modi noted that initiatives like ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce) and GeM (Government E-Marketplace) have expanded opportunities for millions. ONDC recently crossed 200 million transactions, while GeM has surpassed ₹1 lakh crore GMV in just 50 days.

    “From Banarasi weavers to bamboo artisans in Nagaland, sellers are now reaching customers nationwide, without middlemen or digital monopolies,” the Prime Minister added.

    PM Modi also underlined India’s emergence as a global leader in Digital Public Infrastructure, citing examples like Aadhaar, CoWIN, DigiLocker, and FASTag. He said these platforms are now studied and adopted in other countries, with India launching a Global DPI Repository during its G20 Presidency.

    Looking Ahead

    Calling for greater innovation in the coming decade, the Prime Minister said India is moving from “digital governance to global digital leadership, from India-first to India-for-the-world.”

    He urged the country’s innovators and entrepreneurs to build technology that “unites, includes, and uplifts,” adding, “Let us build what empowers. Let us solve what truly matters.”

    The Prime Minister’s remarks come as India continues to scale its presence in emerging fields like artificial intelligence and digital commerce, supported by initiatives such as the $1.2 billion India AI Mission and new Centres of Excellence across the country.

    “Digital India has not remained a mere government program, it has become a people’s movement,” PM Modi said, reaffirming the initiative’s central role in building an Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

     

  • Death toll in Telangana pharma unit blast rises to 35

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The death toll from the explosion at a chemical factory in Telangana’s Sangareddy district rose to 35 on Tuesday, with officials saying that the number may increase as search and rescue operations continue.

    The blast occurred on Monday at Sigachi Industries Limited’s pharmaceutical facility, located about 50 km from Hyderabad. The impact of the explosion caused a three-storey building to collapse, triggering a massive fire.

    At the time of the incident, 108 workers were present at the factory. Thirty-five workers were injured in the explosion, with 11 reported to be in critical condition. More than 15 fire engines were deployed to contain the blaze.

    Most of the victims were migrant workers from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for those injured, from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.

    Union Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed grief and said the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team was immediately deployed and is assisting in the ongoing rescue operations along with local authorities.

    “Saddened by the tragic accident in a chemical factory in Sangareddy, Telangana. The NDRF team rushed to the spot immediately and is continuing the rescue operation along with the local administration,” Shah said in a post on X.

    According to Y Nagi Reddy, Director General of Telangana State Disaster Response and Fire Services, the explosion took place during the air handling and drying of microcrystalline cellulose, citing inputs from industrial experts.

    The state government has set up a high-powered committee to investigate the incident. The panel includes the Chief Secretary, Special Chief Secretary (Disaster Management), Principal Secretary (Labour), Principal Secretary (Health), and Additional DGP (Fire Services).

    The Chief Minister’s Office said the committee will also provide recommendations to prevent such industrial disasters in the future.

    (With inputs from agencies)

  • Trump suggests DOGE look at Musk’s companies to save money

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump suggested on Tuesday that his efficiency department should take a look at the subsidies that Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s companies have received in order to save the federal government “BIG” money.

    Trump’s comments come after billionaire Elon Musk renewed his criticism on Monday of Trump’s sweeping tax-cut and spending bill, vowing to unseat lawmakers who backed it after campaigning on limiting government spending.

    “Elon may get more subsidy than any human being in history, by far, and without subsidies, Elon would probably have to close up shop and head back home to South Africa. No more Rocket launches, Satellites, or Electric Car Production, and our Country would save a FORTUNE. Perhaps we should have DOGE take a good, hard, look at this? BIG MONEY TO BE SAVED!!!,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social.

    In response to Trump’s post, Musk, in his own social media platform X, said “I am literally saying CUT IT ALL. Now.”

    After weeks of relative silence following a feud with Trump over the legislation, Musk rejoined the debate on Saturday as the Senate took up the package, calling it “utterly insane and destructive” in a post on social media platform X.

    On Monday, he ramped up his criticism, saying lawmakers who had campaigned on cutting spending but backed the bill “should hang their heads in shame!”

    “And they will lose their primary next year if it is the last thing I do on this Earth,” Musk said.

    The Tesla and SpaceX CEO called again for a new political party, saying the bill’s massive spending indicated “that we live in a one-party country – the PORKY PIG PARTY!!”

    “Time for a new political party that actually cares about the people,” he wrote.

    Musk’s criticism of the bill has caused a rift in his relationship with Trump, marking a dramatic shift after the tech billionaire spent nearly $300 million on Trump’s re-election campaign and led the administration’s controversial Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a federal cost-cutting initiative.

    Musk, the world’s richest man, has argued that the legislation would greatly increase the national debt and erase the savings he says he has achieved through DOGE.

    It remains unclear how much sway Musk has over Congress or what effect his opinions might have on the bill’s passage. But Republicans have expressed concern that his on-again, off-again feud with Trump could hurt their chances to protect their majority in the 2026 midterm congressional elections.

    The rift has also led to volatility for Tesla, with shares of the company seeing wild price swings that erased approximately $150 billion of its market value, though it has since recovered.

    – Reuters

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China imposes sanctions on former Philippine Senator Francis Tolentino

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, July 1 (Xinhua) — China has decided to impose sanctions on former Philippine Senator Francis Tolentino for his despicable behavior on China-related issues and ban him from entering the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and Macao Special Administrative Region, a Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Tuesday.

    For some time now, some anti-China politicians in the Philippines, guided by selfish motives, have made malicious remarks and actions on issues directly related to China, thereby causing harm to the interests of the PRC and China-Philippine relations, the official said.

    The Foreign Ministry stressed that the Chinese government is unwavering in its determination to protect national sovereignty, security and development interests. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: G7 calls for resumption of Iran nuclear talks

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    OTTAWA, July 1 (Xinhua) — The Group of Seven (G7) foreign ministers on Monday called for a resumption of talks to reach a comprehensive, verifiable and lasting deal on Iran’s nuclear program.

    In a joint statement on Iran and the Middle East issued by Global Affairs Canada, the G7 foreign ministers called on Iran to urgently resume full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in accordance with its safeguards obligations and to provide the IAEA with verifiable information on all nuclear materials in Iran, including by providing access to IAEA inspectors.

    “We underscore the central importance of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty as the cornerstone of the global nuclear non-proliferation regime. It is critical that Iran remain a party to and fully implement its obligations under the Treaty,” the statement said.

    The foreign ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as the European Union’s high representative, met in The Hague on June 25 to discuss recent developments in the Middle East. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Govt condemns smears against NSL

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government strongly condemned and opposed the malicious attacks on and the demonisation of the Hong Kong National Security Law (HKNSL) and other laws safeguarding national security, as well as the slanderous and fact-distorting remarks made on the city’s work in safeguarding national security by foreign politicians, anti-China organisations, and various media outlets on the important occasion of the fifth anniversary of the promulgation and implementation of the HKNSL.

    In a statement, the Hong Kong SAR Government pointed out that anti-China and destabilising forces, organisations or media have made sweepingly generalised and grandstanding comments, completely disregarding the profound historical significance of the HKNSL and its undeniable positive impact on the city.

    The statement made it clear that they distorted the facts and made slanderous remarks on the Hong Kong SAR and the HKNSL. They even attempted to interfere with criminal trials conducted in Hong Kong SAR courts, thereby obstructing the course of justice.

    It also indicated that they never utter a word about the strict enforcement of national security laws by their own countries and other governments against activities that endanger their national security.

    The statement described their actions as despicable political manipulation. It stressed that the Hong Kong SAR Government must sternly denounce their wrongdoing to set the record straight and expose their shameless ‘double standards’ to the world.

    The Hong Kong SAR Government also emphasised that safeguarding national security is a top priority of every country. In accordance with international law and international relations based on the Charter of the United Nations, it is each and every sovereign state’s inherent right to enact laws safeguarding national security, and it is also an international practice.

    Moreover, the statement mentioned that for a considerable period, external forces, through their agents, have conducted infiltration and sabotage activities in Hong Kong, and further instigated the “black-clad violence” and the Hong Kong version of “colour revolution” in 2019, which nearly brought the “one country, two systems” to ruin.

    With the promulgation and implementation of the HKNSL, its effect in stopping violence and curbing disorder as well as quickly restoring social stability in the Hong Kong community was immediate.

    The statement highlighted that the Hong Kong SAR fulfilled its constitutional duty by enacting the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance last year with broad societal consensus, thereby improving the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security. This has enabled Hong Kong’s transition “from chaos to order” and advancement “from stability to prosperity”.

    It said the attempts by external forces to “use Hong Kong to contain China” are doomed to fail, leaving them with no option but to smear the HKNSL.

    The Hong Kong SAR Government pointed out that, over five years of its implementation, the HKNSL has restored the rights and freedoms that Hong Kong citizens were unable to enjoy during the period of “black-clad violence”, and has enabled the livelihood and economic activities of the Hong Kong community at large to swiftly return to normal and the business environment to be restored and improved continuously.

    It also stressed that human rights in Hong Kong have always been robustly guaranteed constitutionally by both the Constitution and the Basic Law, adding that the rule of law in Hong Kong is strong and robust, and withstands the test of time.

    In addition, the statement noted that, as guaranteed by the Basic Law, the HKNSL and the Hong Kong Bill of Rights, all defendants charged with a criminal offence shall have the right to a fair trial by the Judiciary exercising independent judicial power. The courts of the Hong Kong SAR shall exercise judicial power independently, free from any interference.

    It also mentioned that foreign politicians, anti-China organisations, and various media have recently continued to make irresponsible and absurd remarks, distorting the truth regarding the national security case involving Lai Chee-ying, as well as his custodial arrangements, with the intention of perverting the course of justice.

    The Hong Kong SAR government has repeatedly pointed out that any attempt by any country, organisation, or individual to interfere with the judicial proceedings in the city by means of political power, to prevent any defendant from receiving a fair trial that they should have, is a blatant act undermining the rule of law of Hong Kong and should be condemned.

    The suggestion that persons or organisations with certain backgrounds should be immune from legal sanctions for their illegal acts and activities is tantamount to granting such persons or organisations privileges to break the law, perverting the course of justice, and is totally contrary to the spirit of the rule of law, the Hong Kong SAR Government stated.

    The HKSAR Government strongly urges any external forces to immediately stop interfering with the city’s internal affairs and the independent exercise of judicial power by the courts of the Hong Kong SAR.

    Regarding the custodial arrangements of Lai Chee-ying, the Hong Kong SAR Government reiterated that the Correctional Services Department (CSD) is committed to ensuring that the custodial environment is secure, safe, humane, appropriate and healthy, and has put in place an established mechanism to safeguard the rights of persons-in-custody (PICs), including regular independent visitors, namely Justices of the Peace, who inspect the prisons to ensure the rights of PICs are protected.

    The statement specified that the CSD consistently handles matters concerning Lai Chee-ying strictly in accordance with these mechanisms, no differently from other PICs.

    Furthermore, it clarified that the arrangement for Lai Chee-ying’s removal from association with other PICs has been made at his own request and approved by the CSD after considering all relevant factors in accordance with the law all along.

    The statement added that Lai Chee-ying’s legal representative has publicly clarified that he is receiving appropriate treatment and care in prison.

    The Hong Kong SAR Government emphasised that it will continue to uphold its constitutional duty and steadfastly safeguard national sovereignty, security, and development interests.

    The statement said that the Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to resolutely fulfil its duties and obligations to safeguard national security while simultaneously protecting the lawful rights and freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong residents and others in Hong Kong in accordance with the law.

    By ensuring high-quality development with high-level security, a new chapter in the practice of “one country, two systems” would be continuously composed, the statement added.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Over half of sports fans are turning to AI or gen AI for more personalized content

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press contact:
    Elsa Estager Bergerou
    Tel: +33 6 59 62 55 13
    Email: elsa.estager-bergerou@capgemini.com

    Over half of sports fans are turning to AI or gen AI for more personalized content

    • AI has overtaken traditional search engines as the main source for sports information, with 67% of fans wanting all sports data aggregated in one place.
    • Digital insights are filling gaps in the live sports experience, with nearly 70% of fans seeking stats related to team, players and playing conditions primarily pre-match and during breaks.
    • Spectators want balance between tech innovation and authenticity, with almost three out of five fans worrying that too much technology could impact the thrill of live sport.

    Paris, July 1, 2025 – The Capgemini Research Institute today released its latest report, “Beyond the game: The new era of AI-powered sports engagement”, revealing how AI and generative AI (gen AI) are reshaping the global fan experience. As AI-powered tools become the primary gateway for sports content and data, fans still seek the thrill of authentic, in-person moments, therefore highlighting the need to strike a balance between the digital and physical worlds of sport.

    AI and gen AI power the next era of fan engagement
    AI is redefining how fans interact with sports. Over half (54%) of them now use AI or gen AI tools as their main source of information with 59% trusting content generated by these technologies. From personalized match summaries to real-time highlights reels, fans increasingly expect AI and gen AI to aggregate all sports-related content – 67% want a single, streamlined platform where they can discover information aggregated from websites, search engines and social media.

    However, personalization and interactivity are key to ensuring a genuine and authentic fan experience. While the report finds fans are returning to stadiums since the pandemic, with 37% already having attended live matches this year, AI is transforming how fans engage with sports overall. The technology is delivering tailored updates that enhance their experience of the game, with stats and facts about their favorite teams, fixtures, and players.

    Indeed, 64% of fans want AI to provide updates customized to their preferences, a similar number want to compete against well-known players in a virtual space during live games, and 58% would like to replay matches using ‘what-if’ scenarios. Just over a quarter (27%) are even willing to pay a premium for these AI-driven, interactive experiences. For instance, Tour de France fans can now play and follow their Fantasy team in real time, vote and elect the most combative rider of the day or even experience the race from inside an official fans car.

    “The true power of AI in sports, and especially gen AI, lies in its ability to transform how fans connect with the game, with athletes, and with each other,” explained Pascal Brier, Chief Innovation Officer at Capgemini and Member of the Group Executive Committee. “As technology evolves, unlocking new ways for fans to curate their own unique experience, will be a blend of real-time data with immersive, interactive opportunities. The challenge is to ensure that these innovations deepen the emotional connections that make sport so powerful for passionate supporters, while preserving the authenticity and integrity that defines the spirit of the game.”

    Balancing innovation with responsibility and the thrill of live sports
    Sports fans today are hungry for data but the report shows their digital engagement peaks before matches and during breaks, rather than during the live play itself. Nearly 70% of fans want access to player metrics and live match data, using these insights to enrich their understanding when the action pauses. By meeting fans’ appetite for insights at these key moments, data enriches the overall viewing experience while keeping the thrill of live sports intact.

    While digital innovation is widely embraced, nearly 60% of sports fans are concerned that too much technology could dampen the excitement of attending events, and over half fear it could diminish their overall enjoyment of the game or match. This highlights the importance of finding the right balance – leveraging technology to elevate the fan experience while preserving what makes live sports so uniquely compelling.

    The report finds that there is a lack of awareness about data privacy aspects of AI-powered sports viewing tools.
    For example, whereas about half of Gen Y and Gen Z fans are aware of the various kinds of data collected and explicitly consent to its storage, this is true for only 38% and 36% of baby boomers, respectively.

    There are also concerns about misinformation, as two-thirds of fans admit being worried that the spread of unverified content on AI or gen AI platforms could increase the risk of athletes being targeted or harassed by disgruntled supporters. What’s more, 57% of fans are concerned about the generation of false content resulting in the spread of misinformation about players or sports teams.

    Stadiums invest in tech to meet rising fan expectations
    The report finds that stadium operators are investing in apps and smart technologies to create smoother, more immersive experiences for digital-native audiences. Over half of attendees say ticketing, scheduling, and real-time apps enhance their stadium experience, while facial recognition entry and digital navigation are also valued.

    Download the full report here.

    Report methodology
    The Capgemini Research Institute surveyed f 12,017 sports fans across 11 countries, in March and April 2025: Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain, Sweden, the UK, and the US. The research explored fan behaviors, attitudes, and expectations around AI, gen AI, and digital innovations in sports.

    About Capgemini
    Capgemini is a global business and technology transformation partner, helping organizations to accelerate their dual transition to a digital and sustainable world, while creating tangible impact for enterprises and society. It is a responsible and diverse group of 340,000 team members in more than 50 countries. With its strong over 55-year heritage, Capgemini is trusted by its clients to unlock the value of technology to address the entire breadth of their business needs. It delivers end-to-end services and solutions leveraging strengths from strategy and design to engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, generative AI, cloud and data, combined with its deep industry expertise and partner ecosystem. The Group reported 2024 global revenues of €22.1 billion.

    Get The Future You Want | www.capgemini.com

    About the Capgemini Research Institute
    The Capgemini Research Institute is Capgemini’s in-house think-tank on all things digital. The Institute publishes research on the impact of digital technologies on large traditional businesses. The team draws on the worldwide network of Capgemini experts and works closely with academic and technology partners. The Institute has dedicated research centers in India, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States. It was ranked #1 in the world for the quality of its research by independent analysts for six consecutive times – an industry first.

    Visit us at https://www.capgemini.com/researchinstitute/

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘I’m going to send letters’: the deadline for Trump’s ‘reciprocal’ trade tariffs is looming

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Draper, Professor, and Executive Director: Institute for International Trade, and Director of the Jean Monnet Centre of Trade and Environment, University of Adelaide

    Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images

    US President Donald Trump’s 90-day pause on implementing so-called “reciprocal” tariffs on some 180 trading partners ends on July 8.

    How are countries responding to the threat, and will the tariffs be re-applied from July 9?

    What the US thinks ‘reciprocal’ means

    The United States is demanding four things from all trading partners, while offering little in return. So these negotiations are anything but “reciprocal”.

    The main demand is to rebalance bilateral goods trade between the US and other countries. Nations with trade surpluses – meaning they export a greater value of goods than they import from the US – will be encouraged to import more from the US and/or export less to it.

    The US is also pushing countries to eliminate a range of “non-tariff barriers” that may affect US export competitiveness. These barriers are drawn from the United States Trade Representative’s (USTR) March 2025 report and include a variety of perceived “unfair” practices, from value-added taxes (such as the Goods and Services Tax) to biosecurity standards such as those Australia applies to agricultural imports.

    In a nod to the “tech bros”, (alleged) restrictions on digital trade services, such as Australia’s media bargaining code, and digital service taxes must be removed, along with taxes on the tech giants. On Monday, Canada dropped a new digital service tax on firms such as Google and Meta after Trump suspended trade talks.

    Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Google CEO Sundar Pichai and Tesla CEO Elon Musk at President Trump’s inauguration ceremony.
    Saul Loeb/Pool/AFP via Getty Image

    Countries must also agree to reduce reliance on inputs from China in any exports to the United States. That means companies that moved manufacturing from China to countries such as Vietnam during President Trump’s first term trade wars will face challenges in sourcing input components from China.

    Put together, this is a difficult package for any government to accept without securing something in return.

    Who holds the cards?

    Trump has been fond of saying the United States holds “all the cards” in trade negotiations.

    It’s not known precisely how many countries are negotiating bilateral deals with Washington. Between 10 and 18 countries are priority “targets”, or to use an early, colourful phrase, were targeted as the “Dirty 15”.

    Category 1 likely comprises many more countries than those in the US’s naughty corner. These countries were saddled with large reciprocal tariffs despite the tariff formula’s evident shortcomings. To paraphrase Trump, these countries don’t hold the cards and have limited negotiating power.

    They have no choice but to make concessions. The smarter ones will take the opportunity to make reforms and blame the bully in Washington. Mostly these are developing countries, some with high dependency on the US market, including the poorest such as Bangladesh, Cambodia, and Lesotho.

    To make matters worse, they must keep one eye on China for fear of retribution in case Beijing perceives any promises to reduce dependence on Chinese inputs would compromise Chinese interests.

    Category 2 consists of countries that “hold cards”, or have some degree of leverage. Some, such as Canada, Japan, India and the EU, will secure limited US concessions although they may resort to retaliation to force this outcome. From discussions with our government and academic sources, Japan and India likely won’t retaliate, but Canada has previously and the EU likely will.

    Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese initially said he would not negotiate and has repeated US reciprocal tariffs “are not the act of a friend”.

    However, the Australian government is wisely looking to bolster its negotiation cards, such as creating a critical minerals strategic reserve.



    Read more:
    Plans to stockpile critical minerals will help Australia weather global uncertainty – and encourage smaller miners

    No doubt policy makers are also reminding the US of their favourable access to Australia’s military infrastructure which could be essential to any US-China military confrontation.

    China is category 3.

    The Chinese government is determined not to kowtow to Washington as they did in Trump’s first term. The so-called “Phase 1 deal” was signed but instantly forgotten in Beijing.

    Beijing has several cards, notably dominance of processed critical minerals and their derivative products, particularly magnets, and the US’s lack of short-term alternative supply options.

    After China expanded export controls on rare earths and critical minerals, shortages hit the auto industry around the world and Ford was forced to idle plants.

    What happens next?

    Kevin Hassett, director of the National Economic Council, suggested on Friday more deals may be signed before July 8. But Trump is likely to undermine and/or negate them as his transactional whims change.

    The British, after announcing their US deal that included relatively favourable automotive and steel export market access, watched in horror as Trump doubled tariffs on steel imports to 50%, and reimposed the 25% tariff on the UK.

    The UK government was reminded this US administration cannot be trusted. That is why countries negotiate binding trade treaties governed by domestic and international laws.

    Many countries are waiting on the outcomes from various US court battles testing whether the president or Congress should have the power to impose unilateral tariffs. After all, if there is a chance the Supreme Court rules Trump cannot change tariffs by decree, then why negotiate with a serially untrustworthy partner?

    The Japanese government, for example, recently announced it is pausing negotiations after the US demanded increased defence spending.

    ‘I’m going to send letters’

    Trump on Sunday suggested he would simply send letters to foreign nations setting a tariff rate. “I’m going to send letters, that’s the end of the trade deal,” he said.

    That does not bode well for countries negotiating in good faith. It’s likely tariffs will be reimposed and bilateral negotiations will drag on to September or beyond as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has said.

    After all, even the US government has limited bandwidth to process so many simultaneous negotiations. Category 2 trading partners will increasingly test their own political limits. And the rest of the world is hoping for a favourable Supreme Court ruling that may, like the character Godot in the play Waiting for Godot, never come.

    Nathan Gray receives funding from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

    Kumuthini Sivathas and Peter Draper do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. ‘I’m going to send letters’: the deadline for Trump’s ‘reciprocal’ trade tariffs is looming – https://theconversation.com/im-going-to-send-letters-the-deadline-for-trumps-reciprocal-trade-tariffs-is-looming-259983

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘I’m going to send letters’: the deadline for Trump’s ‘reciprocal’ trade tariffs is looming

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Draper, Professor, and Executive Director: Institute for International Trade, and Director of the Jean Monnet Centre of Trade and Environment, University of Adelaide

    Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images

    US President Donald Trump’s 90-day pause on implementing so-called “reciprocal” tariffs on some 180 trading partners ends on July 8.

    How are countries responding to the threat, and will the tariffs be re-applied from July 9?

    What the US thinks ‘reciprocal’ means

    The United States is demanding four things from all trading partners, while offering little in return. So these negotiations are anything but “reciprocal”.

    The main demand is to rebalance bilateral goods trade between the US and other countries. Nations with trade surpluses – meaning they export a greater value of goods than they import from the US – will be encouraged to import more from the US and/or export less to it.

    The US is also pushing countries to eliminate a range of “non-tariff barriers” that may affect US export competitiveness. These barriers are drawn from the United States Trade Representative’s (USTR) March 2025 report and include a variety of perceived “unfair” practices, from value-added taxes (such as the Goods and Services Tax) to biosecurity standards such as those Australia applies to agricultural imports.

    In a nod to the “tech bros”, (alleged) restrictions on digital trade services, such as Australia’s media bargaining code, and digital service taxes must be removed, along with taxes on the tech giants. On Monday, Canada dropped a new digital service tax on firms such as Google and Meta after Trump suspended trade talks.

    Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Google CEO Sundar Pichai and Tesla CEO Elon Musk at President Trump’s inauguration ceremony.
    Saul Loeb/Pool/AFP via Getty Image

    Countries must also agree to reduce reliance on inputs from China in any exports to the United States. That means companies that moved manufacturing from China to countries such as Vietnam during President Trump’s first term trade wars will face challenges in sourcing input components from China.

    Put together, this is a difficult package for any government to accept without securing something in return.

    Who holds the cards?

    Trump has been fond of saying the United States holds “all the cards” in trade negotiations.

    It’s not known precisely how many countries are negotiating bilateral deals with Washington. Between 10 and 18 countries are priority “targets”, or to use an early, colourful phrase, were targeted as the “Dirty 15”.

    Category 1 likely comprises many more countries than those in the US’s naughty corner. These countries were saddled with large reciprocal tariffs despite the tariff formula’s evident shortcomings. To paraphrase Trump, these countries don’t hold the cards and have limited negotiating power.

    They have no choice but to make concessions. The smarter ones will take the opportunity to make reforms and blame the bully in Washington. Mostly these are developing countries, some with high dependency on the US market, including the poorest such as Bangladesh, Cambodia, and Lesotho.

    To make matters worse, they must keep one eye on China for fear of retribution in case Beijing perceives any promises to reduce dependence on Chinese inputs would compromise Chinese interests.

    Category 2 consists of countries that “hold cards”, or have some degree of leverage. Some, such as Canada, Japan, India and the EU, will secure limited US concessions although they may resort to retaliation to force this outcome. From discussions with our government and academic sources, Japan and India likely won’t retaliate, but Canada has previously and the EU likely will.

    Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese initially said he would not negotiate and has repeated US reciprocal tariffs “are not the act of a friend”.

    However, the Australian government is wisely looking to bolster its negotiation cards, such as creating a critical minerals strategic reserve.



    Read more:
    Plans to stockpile critical minerals will help Australia weather global uncertainty – and encourage smaller miners

    No doubt policy makers are also reminding the US of their favourable access to Australia’s military infrastructure which could be essential to any US-China military confrontation.

    China is category 3.

    The Chinese government is determined not to kowtow to Washington as they did in Trump’s first term. The so-called “Phase 1 deal” was signed but instantly forgotten in Beijing.

    Beijing has several cards, notably dominance of processed critical minerals and their derivative products, particularly magnets, and the US’s lack of short-term alternative supply options.

    After China expanded export controls on rare earths and critical minerals, shortages hit the auto industry around the world and Ford was forced to idle plants.

    What happens next?

    Kevin Hassett, director of the National Economic Council, suggested on Friday more deals may be signed before July 8. But Trump is likely to undermine and/or negate them as his transactional whims change.

    The British, after announcing their US deal that included relatively favourable automotive and steel export market access, watched in horror as Trump doubled tariffs on steel imports to 50%, and reimposed the 25% tariff on the UK.

    The UK government was reminded this US administration cannot be trusted. That is why countries negotiate binding trade treaties governed by domestic and international laws.

    Many countries are waiting on the outcomes from various US court battles testing whether the president or Congress should have the power to impose unilateral tariffs. After all, if there is a chance the Supreme Court rules Trump cannot change tariffs by decree, then why negotiate with a serially untrustworthy partner?

    The Japanese government, for example, recently announced it is pausing negotiations after the US demanded increased defence spending.

    ‘I’m going to send letters’

    Trump on Sunday suggested he would simply send letters to foreign nations setting a tariff rate. “I’m going to send letters, that’s the end of the trade deal,” he said.

    That does not bode well for countries negotiating in good faith. It’s likely tariffs will be reimposed and bilateral negotiations will drag on to September or beyond as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has said.

    After all, even the US government has limited bandwidth to process so many simultaneous negotiations. Category 2 trading partners will increasingly test their own political limits. And the rest of the world is hoping for a favourable Supreme Court ruling that may, like the character Godot in the play Waiting for Godot, never come.

    Nathan Gray receives funding from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

    Kumuthini Sivathas and Peter Draper do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. ‘I’m going to send letters’: the deadline for Trump’s ‘reciprocal’ trade tariffs is looming – https://theconversation.com/im-going-to-send-letters-the-deadline-for-trumps-reciprocal-trade-tariffs-is-looming-259983

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: BNP PARIBAS CARDIF COMPLETES THE ACQUISITION OF AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

            

    BNP PARIBAS CARDIF COMPLETES THE ACQUISITION OF
    AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS

    PRESS RELEASE

    Paris, 01 July 2025,

    BNP Paribas Cardif has finalised the acquisition of AXA Investment Managers (AXA IM) and signed a long-term partnership with the AXA Group to manage a large part of its assets.

    This operation, announced on 1st August 2024, will enable the BNP Paribas Group to create a leading European asset management platform with over EUR 1.5 trillion in assets under management entrusted by its clients. It allows the Group to become the European leader in long-term savings management for insurers and pension funds with around EUR 850 billion, with the ambition to become the European leader in fund collection for private asset investments and positioning itself among the main providers of ETFs in Europe. This operation is also part of the Group’s core mission to support the economy by mobilising savings to finance future-oriented projects in the best interests of its clients.

    By combining the expertise of AXA IM, BNP Paribas Asset Management, and BNP Paribas REIM, this new platform will have a wide range of traditional and alternative assets, an expanded global distribution network, enhanced innovation capabilities, and a more comprehensive offering in responsible investment. It will benefit from AXA IM Alts’ market position and expertise in private assets, which are key drivers of future growth for institutional and individual clients, as well as AXA IM’s know-how in long-term asset management for insurance and retirement. In this context, BNP Paribas Cardif will leverage the capabilities of this platform for the management of a large part of its assets, notably its general funds.

    The formation of this new platform marks a major milestone in the development and growth journey of the IPS division. It will fully benefit from BNP Paribas’ integrated model, in close collaboration with the CPBS and CIB businesses, particularly within the framework of the “originate to distribute” approach.

    “This acquisition is an important moment for the entire BNP Paribas Group. We are delighted to welcome the AXA IM teams, who will find within the BNP Paribas Group a strong culture of customer service as well as ambitious growth and innovation prospects. These are teams with recognised and complementary expertise that will build together a European industrial project to better serve our clients. I have every confidence in the ability of the management teams of our asset management activities to grow the business and create value for our clients and employees,” said Jean-Laurent Bonnafé, Director and Chief Executive Officer of BNP Paribas.

    Joint working groups with AXA IM teams are already in place to reflect on and develop a common roadmap, particularly with regard to offerings and services. This roadmap will be submitted to the appropriate employee representative bodies.

    The project to merge the legal entities of AXA IM, BNP Paribas AM and BNP Paribas REIM, which would create the new platform held by BNP Paribas Cardif, is currently the subject of consultation with employee representative bodies.

    Sandro Pierri, CEO of BNP Paribas AM, will lead the BNP Paribas Group’s asset management activities and Marco Morelli, the current Executive Chairman of AXA IM, will chair the BNP Paribas Group’s asset management activities.

    From a financial perspective:

    • The Group’s revenue growth by 2026, including the impact of the transaction, will be greater than +5% (CAGR 24-26), with an average annual jaws effect of +1.5 pts.
    • Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) will be more than 14% in year three (2028) and more than 20% in year four (2029).
    • From a prudential perspective, the impact of the operation on the Group’s CET1 ratio is estimated at approximately -35bp as of the 3rd quarter 2025 results, discussions with supervisory authorities are still on going.

    An update on the progress of the operation will be provided upon the release of the third-quarter 2025 results ahead of a Deep Dive, that will take place during the first quarter 2026, focused on the Group’s trajectory including this operation.

    About BNP Paribas
    Leader in banking and financial services in Europe, BNP Paribas operates in 64 countries and has nearly 178,000 employees, including more than 144,000 in Europe. The Group has key positions in its three main fields of activity: Commercial, Personal Banking & Services for the Group’s commercial & personal banking and several specialised businesses including BNP Paribas Personal Finance and Arval; Investment & Protection Services for savings, investment and protection solutions; and Corporate & Institutional Banking, focused on corporate and institutional clients. Based on its strong diversified and integrated model, the Group helps all its clients (individuals, community associations, entrepreneurs, SMEs, corporates and institutional clients) to realise their projects through solutions spanning financing, investment, savings and protection insurance. In Europe, BNP Paribas has four domestic markets: Belgium, France, Italy and Luxembourg. The Group is rolling out its integrated commercial & personal banking model across several Mediterranean countries, Türkiye, and Eastern Europe. As a key player in international banking, the Group has leading platforms and business lines in Europe, a strong presence in the Americas as well as a solid and fast-growing business in Asia-Pacific. BNP Paribas has implemented a Corporate Social Responsibility approach in all its activities, enabling it to contribute to the construction of a sustainable future, while ensuring the Group’s performance and stability.

    BNP Paribas Press Contacts
    Hacina Habchi: hacina.habchi@bnpparibas.com +33 7 61 97 65 20
    Sandrine Romano: sandrine.romano@bnpparibas.com +33 6 71 18 13 05

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BNP PARIBAS CARDIF COMPLETES THE ACQUISITION OF AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

            

    BNP PARIBAS CARDIF COMPLETES THE ACQUISITION OF
    AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS

    PRESS RELEASE

    Paris, 01 July 2025,

    BNP Paribas Cardif has finalised the acquisition of AXA Investment Managers (AXA IM) and signed a long-term partnership with the AXA Group to manage a large part of its assets.

    This operation, announced on 1st August 2024, will enable the BNP Paribas Group to create a leading European asset management platform with over EUR 1.5 trillion in assets under management entrusted by its clients. It allows the Group to become the European leader in long-term savings management for insurers and pension funds with around EUR 850 billion, with the ambition to become the European leader in fund collection for private asset investments and positioning itself among the main providers of ETFs in Europe. This operation is also part of the Group’s core mission to support the economy by mobilising savings to finance future-oriented projects in the best interests of its clients.

    By combining the expertise of AXA IM, BNP Paribas Asset Management, and BNP Paribas REIM, this new platform will have a wide range of traditional and alternative assets, an expanded global distribution network, enhanced innovation capabilities, and a more comprehensive offering in responsible investment. It will benefit from AXA IM Alts’ market position and expertise in private assets, which are key drivers of future growth for institutional and individual clients, as well as AXA IM’s know-how in long-term asset management for insurance and retirement. In this context, BNP Paribas Cardif will leverage the capabilities of this platform for the management of a large part of its assets, notably its general funds.

    The formation of this new platform marks a major milestone in the development and growth journey of the IPS division. It will fully benefit from BNP Paribas’ integrated model, in close collaboration with the CPBS and CIB businesses, particularly within the framework of the “originate to distribute” approach.

    “This acquisition is an important moment for the entire BNP Paribas Group. We are delighted to welcome the AXA IM teams, who will find within the BNP Paribas Group a strong culture of customer service as well as ambitious growth and innovation prospects. These are teams with recognised and complementary expertise that will build together a European industrial project to better serve our clients. I have every confidence in the ability of the management teams of our asset management activities to grow the business and create value for our clients and employees,” said Jean-Laurent Bonnafé, Director and Chief Executive Officer of BNP Paribas.

    Joint working groups with AXA IM teams are already in place to reflect on and develop a common roadmap, particularly with regard to offerings and services. This roadmap will be submitted to the appropriate employee representative bodies.

    The project to merge the legal entities of AXA IM, BNP Paribas AM and BNP Paribas REIM, which would create the new platform held by BNP Paribas Cardif, is currently the subject of consultation with employee representative bodies.

    Sandro Pierri, CEO of BNP Paribas AM, will lead the BNP Paribas Group’s asset management activities and Marco Morelli, the current Executive Chairman of AXA IM, will chair the BNP Paribas Group’s asset management activities.

    From a financial perspective:

    • The Group’s revenue growth by 2026, including the impact of the transaction, will be greater than +5% (CAGR 24-26), with an average annual jaws effect of +1.5 pts.
    • Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) will be more than 14% in year three (2028) and more than 20% in year four (2029).
    • From a prudential perspective, the impact of the operation on the Group’s CET1 ratio is estimated at approximately -35bp as of the 3rd quarter 2025 results, discussions with supervisory authorities are still on going.

    An update on the progress of the operation will be provided upon the release of the third-quarter 2025 results ahead of a Deep Dive, that will take place during the first quarter 2026, focused on the Group’s trajectory including this operation.

    About BNP Paribas
    Leader in banking and financial services in Europe, BNP Paribas operates in 64 countries and has nearly 178,000 employees, including more than 144,000 in Europe. The Group has key positions in its three main fields of activity: Commercial, Personal Banking & Services for the Group’s commercial & personal banking and several specialised businesses including BNP Paribas Personal Finance and Arval; Investment & Protection Services for savings, investment and protection solutions; and Corporate & Institutional Banking, focused on corporate and institutional clients. Based on its strong diversified and integrated model, the Group helps all its clients (individuals, community associations, entrepreneurs, SMEs, corporates and institutional clients) to realise their projects through solutions spanning financing, investment, savings and protection insurance. In Europe, BNP Paribas has four domestic markets: Belgium, France, Italy and Luxembourg. The Group is rolling out its integrated commercial & personal banking model across several Mediterranean countries, Türkiye, and Eastern Europe. As a key player in international banking, the Group has leading platforms and business lines in Europe, a strong presence in the Americas as well as a solid and fast-growing business in Asia-Pacific. BNP Paribas has implemented a Corporate Social Responsibility approach in all its activities, enabling it to contribute to the construction of a sustainable future, while ensuring the Group’s performance and stability.

    BNP Paribas Press Contacts
    Hacina Habchi: hacina.habchi@bnpparibas.com +33 7 61 97 65 20
    Sandrine Romano: sandrine.romano@bnpparibas.com +33 6 71 18 13 05

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: Peranakan culture exhibition in Beijing marks China-Singapore ties

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

    Editor’s Note: In celebration of the 35th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Singapore, the Capital Museum in Beijing is currently hosting “A Peranakan Culture Exhibition on the Maritime Silk Road,” showcasing the vibrant cultural legacy of the Peranakan Chinese — descendants of early Chinese settlers who integrated into Southeast Asian societies.

    This special exhibition, supported by the Asian Civilisations Museum and the Peranakan Museum, both operating under the National Heritage Board of Singapore, presents the dynamic history and multicultural identity of the Baba-Nyonya communities, whose distinctive way of life blends Chinese, Malay, Southeast Asian and Western influences.

    Through artifacts, culinary traditions, religious customs, fashion and contemporary design, the exhibition underscores the enduring relevance of cultural exchange and the spirit of mutual understanding across regions.

    The entrance to “A Peranakan Culture Exhibition on the Maritime Silk Road” at the Capital Museum, Beijing, June 24, 2025. The exhibition celebrates the vibrant legacy of the Peranakan Chinese, a community shaped by centuries of maritime exchange between China and Southeast Asia. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

    1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   >  

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China announces 26-man squad for EAFF E-1 Football Championship

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

    The Chinese Football Association (CFA) on Monday announced a 26-player roster for the upcoming East Asian Football Federation (EAFF) E-1 Football Championship, with four new players earning call-ups.

    The CFA has confirmed the dismissal of head coach Branko Ivankovic following China’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Serbian coach Dejan Djurdjevic will serve as caretaker.

    Several veterans have been phased out and replaced by younger players. In goal, Yan Junling remains on the squad alongside two newcomers, Xue Qinghao and Yu Jinyong. Midfielders Kuai Jiwen and Liao Jintao, both of whom have delivered consistent performances in the Chinese Super League, received their first national team call-ups. All forwards named to the squad are familiar faces, having featured in World Cup qualifiers under Ivankovic.

    The EAFF E-1 Football Championship is scheduled for July 7-15, with China facing host South Korea in the opening match. 

    MIL OSI China News –