NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia

  • NATO leaders set to back Trump defence spending goal at Hague summit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    NATO leaders gathered in The Hague on Wednesday for a summit tailor-made for U.S. President Donald Trump, with European allies hoping a pledge to hike defence spending will prompt him to dispel doubts about his commitment to the alliance.

    The summit is expected to endorse a higher defence spending goal of 5% of GDP – a response to a demand by Trump and to Europeans’ fears that Russia poses an increasingly direct threat to their security following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

    NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte acknowledged that it was not easy for countries to find the money for extra defence spending but said it was vital to do so.

    “There is absolute conviction with my colleagues at the table that given this threat from the Russians, given the international security situation, there is no alternative,” he told reporters on Wednesday morning.

    NATO officials are hoping the conflict between Israel and Iran, and the U.S. bombing of Iranian nuclear sites at the weekend, will not overshadow the gathering, hosted by Rutte in his home city.

    Trump has threatened not to protect NATO members if they fail to meet spending targets and he raised doubts about his commitment again on his way to the summit by avoiding directly endorsing the alliance’s Article 5 mutual defence clause.

    Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, he said there were “numerous definitions” of the clause. “I’m committed to saving lives. I’m committed to life and safety. And I’m going to give you an exact definition when I get there,” he said.

    The new target – to be achieved over the next 10 years – is a big increase on the current goal of 2% of GDP, although it will be measured differently. It would amount to hundreds of billions of dollars in extra annual spending.

    Countries would spend 3.5% of GDP on core defence – such as troops and weapons – and 1.5% on broader defence-related measures such as cyber security, protecting pipelines and adapting roads and bridges to handle military vehicles.

    All NATO members have backed a statement enshrining the target, although Spain declared it does not need to meet the goal. Madrid says it can meet its military commitments to NATO by spending much less – a view disputed by Rutte.

    But Rutte accepted a diplomatic fudge with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez as part of his intense efforts to give Trump a diplomatic victory and make the summit go smoothly.

    UNUSUAL INSIGHT INTO SUMMIT DIPLOMACY

    Trump gave an unusual insight into those efforts on Tuesday by posting a private message in which Rutte lavished praise on him and congratulated him on “decisive action in Iran”.

    “You will achieve something NO American president in decades could get done,” Rutte told Trump.

    “Europe is going to pay in a BIG way as they should, and it will be your win.”

    To satisfy Trump, Rutte has also kept the summit and its final statement short and focused on the spending pledge.

    The text is expected to cite Russia as a threat and reaffirm allies’ support for Ukraine but not dwell on those issues, given Trump has taken a more conciliatory stance towards Moscow and been less supportive of Kyiv than his predecessor, Joe Biden.

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy had to settle for a seat at the pre-summit dinner on Tuesday evening rather than a seat at the main meeting on Wednesday, although Trump said he would probably meet with Zelenskiy separately.

    Zelenskiy and his aides have said they want to talk to Trump about buying U.S. weapons including Patriot missile defence systems and increasing pressure on Moscow through tougher sanctions.

    The Kremlin accused NATO of being on a path of rampant militarisation and portraying Russia as a “fiend of hell” in order to justify its big increase in defence spending.

    (Reuters)

  • Flamengo happy to progress after 1-1 draw with LA FC

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Misfiring Flamengo were held to a 1-1 draw by Los Angeles FC in their final group match at the Club World Cup on Tuesday but the Brazilian side still go into the knockout stage with some momentum after another strong performance.

    Denis Bouanga put the MLS club ahead in the 84th minute but substitute Wallace Yan responded two minutes later to ensure Flamengo would progress unbeaten to their last-16 tie against Bayern Munich in Miami on Sunday.

    With top spot in Group D already assured, Flamengo coach Filipe Luis made seven changes to his starting side but there was no change to the style that already earned the Rio de Janeiro club wins over Chelsea and Esperance.

    With a little more accuracy in front of goal, they would have comfortably beaten an LA FC side who were already condemned to a group stage exit after losing their first two games without scoring a goal.

    “We had a great group stage,” Felipe Luis told reporters. “We achieved our objective early so we’ve been able to bench players with yellow cards and give minutes to players that hadn’t played yet.

    “We had rhythm and we had chances to score. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen. We are very happy, no injuries and a great group stage, and now we’re thinking about Bayern and nothing but Bayern.”

    Bouanga had ploughed a lonely furrow as the lone striker all evening but pounced when his chance came from Tom Tillman’s quickly taken free kick, slotting the ball between the legs of Agustin Rossi for his team’s first goal of the tournament.

    The Flamengo fans were silenced but Jorginho, who had come on as a substitute only minutes before Bouanga’s goal, found Yan with an incisive pass and the 20-year-old skipped into the box through four defenders and slid the ball past Hugo Lloris.

    The woodwork played more of a role than either goalkeeper in the first half with Flamengo’s Danilo, Giorgian de Arrascaeta and Pedro all hitting the frame of the goal along with LA FC’s Marky Delgado.

    Flamengo continued to dominate possession with their calm passing game in the second half and it looked only a matter of time before the breakthrough came.

    Lloris, however, pulled off a world-class save to deny Everton, Pedro sent the ball over the bar with an acrobatic bicycle kick, and de Arrascaeta hit the woodwork for the second time with a rasping shot that came down off the bar.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Economics: 22nd ARF Security Policy Conference convenes today in Kuala Lumpur

    Source: ASEAN

    The 22nd ARF Security Policy Conference took place today in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, attended by Senior ARF Defence and Security officials and the Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Political-Security Community. The Conference provided a platform for exchanging views on evolving regional and international security challenges, including the implications of rapid technological advancement and transnational threats. The Conference also discussed ways to foster synergy and enhance complementarity with other ASEAN-led mechanisms to further strengthen the ARF’s relevance and effectiveness in addressing regional security challenges.

    The post 22nd ARF Security Policy Conference convenes today in Kuala Lumpur appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • China, Taiwan clash over history, Beijing says can’t ‘invade’ what is already Chinese territory

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    China and Taiwan clashed over their competing interpretations of history in an escalating war of words over what Beijing views as provocations from Taiwan’s government, and said it is impossible to “invade” what is already Chinese land.

    China views democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory and has stepped up military and political pressure over the past five years. China has an especial dislike of Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, calling him a “separatist”.

    Lai has since Sunday given two speeches in what will be a series of 10 on “uniting the country”, saying that Taiwan is “of course a country” and China has no legal or historical right to claim it.

    Speaking on Wednesday at a regular news briefing in Beijing, Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Zhu Fenglian said any “independence provocations” from Lai and his administration will face “resolute countermeasures”.

    “Though the two sides of the Taiwan Strait have not yet been fully reunified, the historical and legal fact that compatriots on both sides belong to one China and that both sides’ compatriots are Chinese has never changed,” she said.

    Tensions between China and Taiwan, including several rounds of Chinese war games, have raised the possibility Beijing may one day make good on threats to take Taiwan by force which could ignite a regional war.

    China’s last war games were in April, and its air force and navy operate around Taiwan on a daily basis, sometimes using dozens of warplanes, according to the island’s defence ministry.

    Asked about U.S. comments on Chinese drills strengthening preparations for an attack, Zhu corrected the reporter.

    “Taiwan is a part of China; there is no invasion to speak of,” she said.

    Lai takes a different view on Taiwan’s status and future.

    In a speech late on Tuesday, he said Taiwan’s future can only be decided by its people, democratically, not by a decision by any party or president, and that “Taiwan independence” refers to the island not being a part of the People’s Republic of China.

    The defeated Republic of China, founded after the 1911 revolution that brought down the last emperor, fled to Taiwan in 1949 after losing a civil war to Mao Zedong’s communists, and that remains the island’s formal name.

    “How old is the Republic of China? It’s 113 years old, and will be 114 years old this year. The People’s Republic of China? It’s only some 70 years old, right? It’s simple and clear,” Lai said.

    This year’s 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two is another sensitive topic, and China has invited old soldiers who fought for the Republic of China to a military parade in Beijing in early September.

    Taiwan does not want them to attend, and on Wednesday its defence minister, Wellington Koo, said Beijing was trying to distort history.

    “The war of resistance was led and won by the Republic of China, not the People’s Republic of China – this is without a doubt,” he told reporters at parliament.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The 2nd International Junior Football Tournament “Kashi Cup” Kicks Off in Xinjiang

    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

    URUMQI, June 25 (Xinhua) — The 2nd Kashi Cup International Junior Away Football Tournament kicked off in Yupurga County, Kashi Prefecture, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, on Tuesday, bringing together young football players from seven countries, including China, Russia and Kazakhstan.

    Compared with last year’s competition, the level of internationalization and professionalism of this year’s tournament has increased. The competition involves 6 teams from Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, two teams from the host county of Kashi, as well as 4 teams from Beijing, Shanghai, Shandong and Guangdong provinces.

    To ensure the impartiality of the competition results, the organizing committee of the football tournament invited 28 professional referees from the China Football Association (CFA) and the Xinjiang Football Association, as well as two professional judges from Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

    As a key area of the Belt and Road, Xinjiang has made unremitting efforts to promote regional cooperation through sports exchanges, said Ye Hai, deputy director of the Xinjiang Regional Sports Department. Hosting the Kashi Cup not only demonstrates the rapid development of football among teenagers and young people, but also the deep friendship between China and Central Asian countries in sports. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai leads industrial listening tours to New Taipei Industrial Park, embodying the spirit of Taiwan to achieve a new economic miracle.

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    President Lai Ching-Te led a delegation, including Presidential Secretary-General Pan Men-An, Presidential Office Spokesperson Kuo Ya-Hui, Executive Yuan Secretary-General Kung Ming-Hsin, Minister of Economic Affairs Ku Jyh-Huei, and the administrative team, on an “Industrial Listening Tour” at New Taipei Industrial Park on May 2. The delegation engaged in in-depth exchanges with important representatives from the region’s electronics, textile, medical equipment, HVAC, and defense industries.
    On April 3, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that he would impose a 32% reciprocal tariff on Taiwan. President Lai immediately convened industry representatives to his official residence on April 5 to listen to their concerns and officially announced the government’s response measures to the public on the afternoon of April 6, which specifically demonstrated the government’s determination to overcome difficulties with the industry. In the face of US tariff policy, the government has launched the first round of negotiations and continues to negotiate based on the three principles of ensuring national interests, maintaining Taiwan’s industrial development space, and protecting Taiwan’s industrial ecosystem.
    To respond to industry concerns, President Lai and Premier Cho have conducted nearly 20 listening tours. The Executive Yuan has approved a special bill allocating NT$410 billion, including NT$93 billion to support impacted industries and NT$100 billion to subsidize Taiwan Power Company for stable electricity supply, easing operational burdens on business.
    At the forum, New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-Ih and Legislators Su Chiao-Hui, Wu Ping-Jui, Lin Shu-Fen, Lee Kuen-Cheng and Hung Mong-Kai attended to show their support for local industries. Industry representatives raised concerns such as ensuring a stable electricity supply, promoting the integration of SMEs into the semiconductor supply chain, shortening medical device review processes, and implementing ESCO energy-saving technologies for net-zero transformation. President Lai responded that deep energy-saving through ESCOs not only improves energy efficiency but also qualifies for tax credits of equipment investment. Minister Kuo noted that the ministry has budgeted for deep energy-saving projects that offer financial incentives based on actual savings, potentially reducing business power costs by 8-12%. Secretary-General Kung added that the government’s A+ Program encourages innovative R&D and allows companies to hire full-time professionals to support their projects.
    President Lai pointed out that according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) forecast, amid the turbulent international economic situation, the economic growth rate of most countries has declined, but Taiwan has increased its forecast from 2.7% to 2.9%, demonstrating the international community’s high recognition of Taiwan’s economic prospects and the high resilience of Taiwan’s industries. He highlighted that Taiwan has consistently grown stronger through adversity –this is the spirit of Taiwan and the hallmark of its industries.
    In conclusion, the President reaffirmed that the government will adhere to the principle of “Speed and order in balance” to advance negotiations in the face of Trump’s tariff policy. It should not only focus on speed but also ensure the overall interests of the country and promote the three major industrial strategies for the future development of Taiwan’s industries, including:
    1. Foresight and sustainability through smart innovation;
    2. Competing in space and exploring the oceans;
    3. Rooted in Taiwan, expanding globally, strengthening ties with the U.S., and promoting Taiwan to the world.
    The government is committed to driving industrial AI adoption, advancing marine industry development, transitioning to diverse green energy sources reinforcing power system resilience, and pursuing regional economic integration through bilateral investment agreements with democratic partners. With the enduring spirit of Taiwan, we are fully capable of building a resilient economy and achieving a new economic miracle together.

    Spokesman: Mr. Liu Chi-Chuan (Deputy Director General, BIP)
    Contact Number: 886-7-3613349, 0911363680
    Email: lcc12@bip.gov.tw

    Contact Person: Liang, You-Wen (Director of Taipei Branch, BIP)
    Contact Number: 886-2-2655-8527, 0963163008
    Email: yuwen818@bip.gov.tw

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: 91-day, 182-day and 364-day T-Bill Auction Result: Cut-off

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    I. T-Bill 91-day 182-day 364-day
    II. Total Face Value Notified ₹9,000 Crore ₹5,000 Crore ₹5,000 Crore
    III. Cut-off Price and Implicit Yield at Cut-Off Price 98.6693
    (YTM: 5.4094%)    		 97.3142
    (YTM: 5.5350%)    		 94.7387
    (YTM: 5.5687%)
    IV. Total Face Value Accepted ₹9,000 Crore ₹5,000 Crore ₹5,000 Crore

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/587

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • Boca Juniors draw with Auckland City, exit Club World Cup

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Boca Juniors were held to a surprise 1-1 draw by amateurs Auckland City and failed to reach the knockout stage of the Club World Cup on Tuesday in steamy Nashville, Tennessee, where the match was suspended for nearly 50 minutes due to stormy weather.

    Argentine side Boca came into the game needing both a convincing win against already-eliminated Auckland City to overturn a seven-goal difference with Benfica and for the Portuguese club to lose to German champions Bayern Munich in the other Group C fixture.

    Auckland City had just drawn level shortly after the break when lightning in the area forced players off the field. By the time play resumed, Benfica had secured a 1-0 win to qualify top of Group C and reach the last 16 along with Bayern.

    Boca went ahead in the 26th minute when Lautaro Di Lollo received a well-delivered corner and headed it against the post before the ball bounced off Auckland City goalkeeper Nathan Garrow’s arm and into the net for an own goal.

    Auckland scored their first goal of the tournament in the 52nd minute when Christian Gray sent a header inside the right post and past an outstretched Agustin Marchesin moments before play was suspended.

    “Scoring that goal was just surreal. It probably hasn’t sunk in yet. I think the club deserved it, and I’m happy for the boys,” Grey, who is a physical education teacher back in New Zealand, said.

    Boca thought they had pulled back in front shortly after the restart but a VAR decision overturned Miguel Merentiel’s goal due to a handball by teammate Kevin Zenon.

    Boca finished third in the group with two points, one more than Auckland City who also exited the Club World Cup.

    “It was difficult to find spaces because they defended well – that was their objective. They never gave up, and we couldn’t increase our lead. The climate conditions were tough – it was really hot – and then when they equalised, they gained new strength,” Boca forward Edinson Cavani said.

    FIFA President Gianni Infantino was among those at the game where temperatures at kickoff were around 96 degrees Fahrenheit (35.5 degrees Celsius).

    The steamy conditions did little to dampen the spirits of the passionate Boca supporters who spent the duration of the match singing to the beat of drums, including during the weather delay when many refused calls to head to the concourse.

    “Thanks to all the fans that came here and support us the way they do back home,” Boca coach Miguel Angel Russo said.

    “Until their goal, the game was all ours. Boca’s image after this last game is not good. This is the third set-piece goal we’ve conceded, there’s a lot to correct,” the manager added.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Get free help to lose weight through lifestyles service

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Lifestyles service Live Well Wolverhampton offers a free weight management programme for adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30+, or 27.5+ for those of Black African, African Caribbean and Asian origin. To check your BMI, visit NHS. 

    The service provides confidential information, advice, guidance, self-help tools and lifestyle interventions including face-to-face sessions with Slimming World or Gro Health over a period of 12 weeks to enable and maintain positive lifestyle choices. Gro Health also offers a 12-week support service via a digital app.

    Commissioned by the council’s Public Health team, Live Well Wolverhampton is open to adults who live in Wolverhampton or who are registered with a GP in the city.

    Councillor Obaida Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: “In England, it is estimated that around a quarter of adults live with obesity, and in Wolverhampton that number is even higher at 29.7%.

    “This matters because obesity increases the risk of a range of conditions, including cardiovascular disease and cancer, which are major causes of premature mortality in Wolverhampton.

    “It can also contribute to type 2 diabetes and stroke, affect quality of life and self-esteem and contribute to mental health challenges, such as depression. Maintaining a healthy weight therefore helps reduce these risks.

    “Providing services such as Live Well Wolverhampton underpins our ambition to support Wulfrunians to live longer, healthier, lives and, working in partnership with local GP practices, we are proactively inviting eligible residents to access these services.

    “If you live with obesity and would like structured support to manage your weight, we encourage you to think about taking advantage of the free support on offer through Live Well Wolverhampton.”

    Availability is limited and referrals can only be accepted from health care professionals, so interested individuals are urged to speak to their GP practice for more information.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Marine Department announcement

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Attention duty announcers, radio and TV stations:

    Please broadcast the following message as soon as possible and repeat it at suitable intervals:

    As the Standby Signal No.1 has been issued, the Marine Department reminds vessel owners, masters and persons-in-charge of vessels that they should take precautionary measures immediately and properly secure their vessels at safe locations.

    In case of an accident, a report should be made immediately to the Vessel Traffic Centre at 2233 7801.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Axiom 4: Astronauts from India, Poland, Hungary launched on first space station mission

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    NASA retiree turned private astronaut Peggy Whitson was launched on the fifth spaceflight of her career early on Wednesday, joined by crewmates from India, Poland and Hungary heading for their countries’ first visit to the International Space Station.

    The astronaut team lifted off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, at about 2:30 a.m. EDT (0630 GMT; 12 Noon IST)), beginning the latest mission organized by Texas-based startup Axiom Space in partnership with Elon Musk’s rocket venture SpaceX.

    The four-member crew was carried aloft on a towering SpaceX launch vehicle consisting of a Crew Dragon capsule perched atop a two-stage Falcon 9 rocket.

    Live video showed the towering spacecraft streaking into the night sky over Florida’s Atlantic coast trailed by a brilliant yellowish plume of fiery exhaust.

    It marked the first Crew Dragon flight since Musk briefly threatened to decommission the spacecraft after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to cancel Musk’s government contracts in a high-profile political feud between the two men earlier this month.

    Axiom 4’s autonomously operated Crew Dragon was expected to reach the ISS after a flight of about 28 hours, then dock with the outpost as the two vehicles soar together in orbit some 250 miles (400 km) above Earth.

    If all goes according to plan, the Axiom 4 crew will be welcomed aboard the orbiting space laboratory Thursday morning by its seven current resident occupants – three astronauts from the U.S., one from Japan and three cosmonauts from Russia.

    Whitson, 65, and her three Axiom 4 crewmates – Shubhanshu Shukla, 39, of India, Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, 41, of Poland, and Tibor Kapu, 33, of Hungary – are slated to spend 14 days aboard the space station conducting microgravity research.

    The mission stands as the fourth such flight since 2022 arranged by Axiom as the Houston-headquartered company builds on its business of putting astronauts sponsored by private companies and foreign governments into Earth orbit.

    For India, Poland and Hungary, the launch marked a return to human spaceflight after more than 40 years and the first mission to send astronauts from each of those three countries to the International Space Station.

    The Axiom 4 participation of Shukla, an Indian air force pilot, is seen by India’s own space program as a kind of precursor to the debut crewed mission of its Gaganyaan orbital spacecraft, planned for 2027.

    The Axiom 4 crew is led by Whitson, who retired from NASA in 2018 after a pioneering career that included her tenure as the first woman to serve as the U.S. space agency’s chief astronaut. She also was the first woman to command an ISS expedition and the first to do so twice.

    Now a consultant and director of human spaceflight for Axiom, she has logged a career total of 675 days in space, a U.S. record, during three NASA missions and a fourth flight to space as commander of the Axiom 2 mission in 2023.

    The Axiom 4 mission was previously scheduled for liftoff on Tuesday before a forecast of unsuitable weather forced a 24-hour postponement.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI China: Autonomous driving innovation fuels AI reach worldwide

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

    This photo shows a Pony.ai robotaxi at a pick-up point in Nansha District of Guangzhou, south China’s Guangdong Province, March 11, 2025. (Xinhua/Deng Hua)

    On the outskirts of Beijing, a self-driving bus navigated effortlessly through traffic, demonstrating China’s rapidly advancing autonomous driving technology.

    Developed by UISEE, a Beijing-based unicorn, this solution is now expanding beyond Chinese capital’s streets and beginning to make its mark on the global robotaxi industry.

    These “AI drivers” have spread to countries like Singapore, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia and Qatar, penetrating industries including energy, heavy industry, pharmaceuticals and chemicals, said Wu Gansha, CEO of UISEE.

    The unmanned buses operate at over 20 airports worldwide, forming a fleet of more than 1,000 autonomous vehicles that have collectively covered 5.8 million kilometers.

    These busy shuttles reflect the rising influence of Chinese companies like UISEE in the autonomous driving sector, as they secure increasing numbers of international contracts thanks to their reliable and innovative technology.

    In addition to buses, UISEE’s diverse fleet includes unmanned retail vehicles, patrol cars, cleaning vehicles, towing tractors and heavy-duty trucks, varying in size and function.

    Equipped with the latest solid-state LiDAR, the autonomous cars achieve 360-degree, blind-spot-free vision, according to Wu. While Tesla relies mainly on vision-based technology, Chinese tech firms are rolling out a multi-sensor data-driven approach globally.

    GOING GLOBAL

    UISEE is not alone in this global push. Last month, Pony.ai, a Guangzhou-based robotaxi service provider, announced a strategic partnership with Dubai’s transport authority.

    Under the partnership, Pony.ai’s robotaxi fleet is scheduled to commence test operations in 2025, with plans to start fully autonomous commercial services in 2026 in Dubai.

    “This partnership is integral to our goal of transforming 25 percent of all journeys in the city into autonomous trips by 2030, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global leader in autonomous mobility and innovation,” said Ahmed Bahrozyan, CEO of Public Transport Agency at Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

    To date, Pony.ai, a partner of ride-hailing platform Uber, has obtained Robotaxi licenses in countries such as the United States, the Republic of Korea and Luxembourg.

    Last July, during the signing ceremony of the memorandum of understanding between Pony.ai and Luxembourg authorities, the country’s Minister of the Economy, Lex Delles, described the agreement as “a significant opportunity to advance Luxembourg’s technical capabilities in the smart mobility sector.”

    “We are extending our proven-in-China integrated capabilities of autonomous driving, encompassing R&D, mass production, and commercial operations, globally,” said Pony.ai’s CFO Wang Junhao.

    The UAE is emerging as one of the showcasing grounds for China’s self-driving technology.

    In April this year, WeRide announced its collaboration with Uber and the RTA to launch robotaxi services in Dubai. It came after the Guangzhou-based tech firm secured the first autonomous driving license for the UAE in July 2023. In December last year, WeRide partnered with Uber to officially introduce robotaxi services in Abu Dhabi.

    Also, Baidu’s Apollo Go has inked a deal with the RTA this March to launch autonomous driving tests and services in Dubai, marking its entry into the Middle East. It plans to deploy 100 fully autonomous vehicles in Dubai by the end of 2025 and scale the fleet to at least 1,000 by 2028.

    The global Robotaxi market will grow at a compound annual growth rate of 64.1 percent from 2025 to 2032, according to a market forecast released by Coherent MI early this year.

    TECHNOLOGICAL STRENGTHS

    The global expansion of Chinese autonomous driving companies is partly driven by the country’s “data dividend” and strong government support for developing a self-driving ecosystem.

    With the country’s advantage of a vast population, extensive road networks, diverse and complex driving conditions, and rapidly advancing AI technology, robotaxi startups in China have quickly grown into leading companies in the world.

    Baidu and WeRide were named among the top 10 vendors in the Guidehouse Insights Leaderboard Report on automated driving systems (ADS), published last December, alongside NVIDIA and Waymo.

    They are developing at least Level-4 ADS that can operate without human intervention or supervision, according to research.

    Plus, Chinese authorities have designated at least 20 cities and city clusters as pilot zones for the application of “vehicle-road-cloud” integration for intelligent connected vehicles.

    This extensive road test data has boosted international recognition of China’s robotaxi services.

    “One day, autonomous driving will liberate human hands, and we will endeavor to see ‘AI drivers’ cruising in every corner of the world,” said UISEE’s CEO Wu when he talked about his ambitious plan. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • Tesla’s European sales slump for fifth month as EV rivals gain momentum

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Tesla’s new car sales in Europe fell 27.9% in May from a year earlier even as fully-electric vehicle sales in the region jumped 27.2%, with the U.S. EV maker’s revised Model Y yet to show signs of reviving the brand’s fortunes.

    Overall car sales in Europe rose 1.9%, with the strongest growth coming from plug-in hybrids and cars powered by alternative fuels, data from the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) showed.

    WHY IT’S IMPORTANT

    Tesla’s European sales have now fallen for five straight months as customers switch to cheaper Chinese EVs and, in some cases, protest against Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s politics.

    Tesla’s European market share dropped to just 1.2% in May from 1.8% a year ago.

    The revised Model Y is meant to revamp the company’s ageing model range as traditional automakers and Chinese rivals launch EVs at a rapid pace amid trade tensions.

    BY THE NUMBERS

    May new car sales in the European Union, Britain and the European Free Trade Association rose to 1.11 million vehicles, following a 0.3% dip in April, ACEA data showed.

    Registrations at Chinese state-owned SAIC Motor and Germany’s BMW rose 22.5% and 5.6% respectively, while they fell 23% at Japan’s Mazda.

    In the EU alone, total car sales have fallen 0.6% so far this year.

    That comes despite growing demand for EVs, with registrations of battery-electric (BEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and hybrid-electric (HEV) cars rising 26.1%, 15% and 19.8% respectively.

    EU sales of BEVs, HEVs and PHEVs combined accounted for 58.9% of passenger car registrations in May, up from 48.9% in May 2024.

    Among the largest EU markets, new car sales in Spain and Germany rose 18.6% and 1.2% respectively, while in France and Italy they dropped by 12.3% and 0.1%.

    In Britain, registrations were up 1.6%.

    (Reuters)

  • Tesla’s European sales slump for fifth month as EV rivals gain momentum

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Tesla’s new car sales in Europe fell 27.9% in May from a year earlier even as fully-electric vehicle sales in the region jumped 27.2%, with the U.S. EV maker’s revised Model Y yet to show signs of reviving the brand’s fortunes.

    Overall car sales in Europe rose 1.9%, with the strongest growth coming from plug-in hybrids and cars powered by alternative fuels, data from the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) showed.

    WHY IT’S IMPORTANT

    Tesla’s European sales have now fallen for five straight months as customers switch to cheaper Chinese EVs and, in some cases, protest against Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s politics.

    Tesla’s European market share dropped to just 1.2% in May from 1.8% a year ago.

    The revised Model Y is meant to revamp the company’s ageing model range as traditional automakers and Chinese rivals launch EVs at a rapid pace amid trade tensions.

    BY THE NUMBERS

    May new car sales in the European Union, Britain and the European Free Trade Association rose to 1.11 million vehicles, following a 0.3% dip in April, ACEA data showed.

    Registrations at Chinese state-owned SAIC Motor and Germany’s BMW rose 22.5% and 5.6% respectively, while they fell 23% at Japan’s Mazda.

    In the EU alone, total car sales have fallen 0.6% so far this year.

    That comes despite growing demand for EVs, with registrations of battery-electric (BEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and hybrid-electric (HEV) cars rising 26.1%, 15% and 19.8% respectively.

    EU sales of BEVs, HEVs and PHEVs combined accounted for 58.9% of passenger car registrations in May, up from 48.9% in May 2024.

    Among the largest EU markets, new car sales in Spain and Germany rose 18.6% and 1.2% respectively, while in France and Italy they dropped by 12.3% and 0.1%.

    In Britain, registrations were up 1.6%.

    (Reuters)

  • ‘The Emergency Diaries’ chronicles my journey during Emergency: PM Modi

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said he was glad that his experiences during the anti-Emergency movement have been compiled into a new book titled ‘The Emergency Diaries — Years that Forged a Leader’, which will be released by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on the 50th anniversary of the Emergency’s imposition.

    The book, published by Bluekraft Digital Foundation, explores Narendra Modi’s journey as a young Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) pracharak during one of India’s most turbulent political periods.

    It sheds light on how he evaded the police, worked underground, and took part in the covert resistance to what has been described as a draconian crackdown on civil liberties and democratic institutions under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s rule from 1975 to 1977.

    Taking to X on Wednesday, PM Modi wrote, “When the Emergency was imposed, I was a young RSS Pracharak. The anti-Emergency movement was a learning experience for me. It reaffirmed the vitality of preserving our democratic framework. At the same time, I got to learn so much from people across the political spectrum.”

    “I am glad that BlueKraft Digital Foundation has compiled some of those experiences in the form of a book, whose foreword has been penned by Shri H.D. Deve Gowda Ji, himself a stalwart of the anti-Emergency movement,” he added.

    “‘The Emergency Diaries’ chronicles my journey during the Emergency years. It brought back many memories from that time,” PM Modi said.

    “I call upon all those who remember those dark days of the Emergency or those whose families suffered during that time to share their experiences on social media. It will create awareness among the youth of the shameful time from 1975 to 1977,” he added.

    The publishers announced that the book offers a deep dive into the “compelling role that Narendra Modi, then a young RSS Pracharak, played in the fight against Emergency.”

    Drawing on first-person accounts from his close associates, archival material, and PM Modi’s own memoir ‘Sangharsh Ma Gujarat’, the narrative seeks to bring forth a rare window into how India’s future leader was shaped by those dark days of state repression.

    Bluekraft shared on X, “The book delves into the compelling role that Narendra Modi played in the fight against Emergency. Based on first-person anecdotes from associates who worked with young Modi, and using other archival material, the book is a first of its kind that creates new scholarship on the formative years of a young man who would give it his all in the fight against tyranny.”

    “The Emergency Diaries paints a vivid picture of Narendra Modi fighting for the ideals of democracy and how he has worked all his life to preserve and promote it. This book is a tribute to the grit and resolve of those who refused to be silenced, and it offers a rare glimpse into the early trials that forged one of the most transformative leaders of our time,” it added.

    The book’s introduction paints the backdrop of the Emergency years in stark terms. “In the mid-1970s, as India was caught in the iron shackles of the Emergency, democracy was in captivity,” it reads.

    It presents Narendra Modi as part of a covert network resisting the regime, working to distribute banned literature, organise underground meetings, and sustain public morale amidst widespread censorship and fear.

    According to the publishers, The Emergency Diaries highlights PM Modi’s “clandestine operations, his narrow escapes, and his unwavering commitment to restoring democracy as he navigates through a landscape of fear and repression”.

    The book is described as a “tale of resilience, ingenuity, and relentless dedication to preserving democratic ideals and institutions enshrined in our Constitution”.

    It underscores how, according to the narrative, “the resolve of the masses, led by diligent young karyakartas like Modi, shaped one of the most important movements that reshaped a nation’s destiny.”

    (IANS)

  • ‘The Emergency Diaries’ chronicles my journey during Emergency: PM Modi

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said he was glad that his experiences during the anti-Emergency movement have been compiled into a new book titled ‘The Emergency Diaries — Years that Forged a Leader’, which will be released by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on the 50th anniversary of the Emergency’s imposition.

    The book, published by Bluekraft Digital Foundation, explores Narendra Modi’s journey as a young Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) pracharak during one of India’s most turbulent political periods.

    It sheds light on how he evaded the police, worked underground, and took part in the covert resistance to what has been described as a draconian crackdown on civil liberties and democratic institutions under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s rule from 1975 to 1977.

    Taking to X on Wednesday, PM Modi wrote, “When the Emergency was imposed, I was a young RSS Pracharak. The anti-Emergency movement was a learning experience for me. It reaffirmed the vitality of preserving our democratic framework. At the same time, I got to learn so much from people across the political spectrum.”

    “I am glad that BlueKraft Digital Foundation has compiled some of those experiences in the form of a book, whose foreword has been penned by Shri H.D. Deve Gowda Ji, himself a stalwart of the anti-Emergency movement,” he added.

    “‘The Emergency Diaries’ chronicles my journey during the Emergency years. It brought back many memories from that time,” PM Modi said.

    “I call upon all those who remember those dark days of the Emergency or those whose families suffered during that time to share their experiences on social media. It will create awareness among the youth of the shameful time from 1975 to 1977,” he added.

    The publishers announced that the book offers a deep dive into the “compelling role that Narendra Modi, then a young RSS Pracharak, played in the fight against Emergency.”

    Drawing on first-person accounts from his close associates, archival material, and PM Modi’s own memoir ‘Sangharsh Ma Gujarat’, the narrative seeks to bring forth a rare window into how India’s future leader was shaped by those dark days of state repression.

    Bluekraft shared on X, “The book delves into the compelling role that Narendra Modi played in the fight against Emergency. Based on first-person anecdotes from associates who worked with young Modi, and using other archival material, the book is a first of its kind that creates new scholarship on the formative years of a young man who would give it his all in the fight against tyranny.”

    “The Emergency Diaries paints a vivid picture of Narendra Modi fighting for the ideals of democracy and how he has worked all his life to preserve and promote it. This book is a tribute to the grit and resolve of those who refused to be silenced, and it offers a rare glimpse into the early trials that forged one of the most transformative leaders of our time,” it added.

    The book’s introduction paints the backdrop of the Emergency years in stark terms. “In the mid-1970s, as India was caught in the iron shackles of the Emergency, democracy was in captivity,” it reads.

    It presents Narendra Modi as part of a covert network resisting the regime, working to distribute banned literature, organise underground meetings, and sustain public morale amidst widespread censorship and fear.

    According to the publishers, The Emergency Diaries highlights PM Modi’s “clandestine operations, his narrow escapes, and his unwavering commitment to restoring democracy as he navigates through a landscape of fear and repression”.

    The book is described as a “tale of resilience, ingenuity, and relentless dedication to preserving democratic ideals and institutions enshrined in our Constitution”.

    It underscores how, according to the narrative, “the resolve of the masses, led by diligent young karyakartas like Modi, shaped one of the most important movements that reshaped a nation’s destiny.”

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Recommendations of the Working Group on Comprehensive Review of Trading and Settlement Timings of Various Markets Regulated by the Reserve Bank

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank had set up the Working Group (Chairperson: Shri Radha Shyam Ratho) to undertake a comprehensive review of trading and settlement timings of financial markets regulated by the Reserve Bank. The Working Group provided recommendations aimed at facilitating further market development, price discovery, and optimization of liquidity requirements. Its report was published on the RBI’s website inviting comments from members of the public. The Reserve Bank has examined the recommendations of the Committee as well as the feedback received and it has been decided to implement the following recommendations:

    1. The market timings for call money shall be extended to 7:00 PM with effect from July 01, 2025. Accordingly, the revised market hours shall be from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

    2. The trading hours of market repo and Tri-Party Repo (TREP) shall be extended to 4:00 PM with effect from August 01, 2025. Accordingly, the revised trading hours shall be from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

    3. The trading hours for Government securities market, foreign exchange market and interest rate derivatives market remain unchanged.

    2. Other recommendations of the Working Group are under consideration and the decisions thereon will be taken in due course.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/586

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Professions urged to join eHealth

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Health Bureau’s Primary Healthcare Commission announced today that, starting from July 2, occupational therapists (OTs) and physiotherapists (PTs) participating in government-subsidised primary healthcare programmes must first be enlisted in the Primary Care Directory and join eHealth.

     

    It explained that to allow sufficient time for the professions to complete the enrolment process, a two-month grace period until September 1 will be provided.

     

    The commission encourages OTs and PTs to register as early as possible, so that they can continue to provide relevant government-subsidised services to members of the public.

     

    The Primary Healthcare Blueprint recommended expanding the directory to cover more healthcare professionals and developing sub-directories for allied health professionals, including OTs and PTs, with a view to ensuring their participation in continuing medical education or professional development programmes relevant to their disciplines.

     

    In addition, the blueprint recommended requiring all primary healthcare service providers to use eHealth to promote continuity of healthcare services and cross-sector collaboration.

     

    Those OTs and PTs currently participating in relevant government-subsidised programmes but who are yet to be enlisted in the directory and join eHealth by the end of the grace period will no longer be able to offer those government-subsidised primary healthcare services to their patients.

     

    The public may enquire with their OTs or PTs or visit the directory’s website to confirm whether they are enlisted, to ensure that they can continue receiving the relevant subsidised services from the same OT or PT after the grace period.

     

    The directory enables people to look for service providers’ information, such as their practice addresses, telephone numbers, consultation hours, service provisions as well as their participation in various government-subsidised programmes.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • India not altering plans to rest Bumrah despite loss to England in 1st Test

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India will continue to prioritise Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness and stick to their plan of playing the pace spearhead in only three out of the five tests against England despite losing the opener by five wickets on Tuesday, head coach Gautam Gambhir said.

    Bumrah, who declined the test captaincy in order to manage his workload after four months out with a back issue, was India’s top bowler with 5-83 in the first innings of the Headingley thriller but went wicketless in the second.

    The 31-year-old’s expected absence in two of the remaining four tests could see India field an inexperienced attack against the hosts’ aggressive batters but Gambhir remained focused on the longer-term picture.

    “For us to manage Bumrah’s workload is more important,” he told reporters. “There’s a lot of cricket going forward and we know what he brings to the table.

    “Before he came on this tour it was already decided that he’s going to play three tests, but let’s see how his body turns up. We haven’t decided which other tests he’s going to play.”

    Seamer Prasidh Krishna took five wickets in the match and leaked runs, while bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur bagged two wickets while contributing only five runs with the bat, but Gambhir backed the under-fire duo.

    “Prasidh bowled really well,” Gambhir said.

    “He got us crucial wickets. We picked him because we thought he’s got something different. He’s got bounce, and in the first innings, he used that really well, even in the second innings. He’ll keep getting better with experience.

    “Shardul was used a little less, but the reason was that Ravindra Jadeja bowled really well, so we thought he’ll give us control. Shardul got us two important wickets. I’m not going to say this guy didn’t bowl well or that guy bowled well.

    “We’ve just got to be more consistent … and these boys will learn.”

    The second test will begin in Birmingham on July 2.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Chai Wan Public Fill Barging Point to close

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Chai Wan Public Fill Barging Point to close 
    Please broadcast the following as soon as possible:
     
         The Civil Engineering and Development Department today (June 25) announced that as the Standby Signal No. 1 has been issued by the Hong Kong Observatory, the Chai Wan Public Fill Barging Point will be closed at 4.20pm until further notice.
    Issued at HKT 14:40

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Industrialisation scheme enhanced

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Innovation & Technology Commission stated today that it has introduced an enhancement to the New Industrialisation Funding Scheme (NIFS) that includes streamlined procedures to speed up the process of approving applications.

     

    In addition to noting that the enhancement applies to those seeking funding support of no more than $2.8 million, the commission emphasised that the relevant applications will be processed according to the newly established streamlined procedures.

     

    It also pointed out that the aim of the enhancement is to further support enterprises in adopting smart manufacturing and seize market opportunities.

     

    Secretary for Innovation, Technology & Industry Prof Sun Dong said that the Government actively promotes the development of new industrialisation through the New Industrialisation Acceleration Scheme (NIAS) and the NIFS, injecting new impetus into Hong Kong’s economy.

     

    While indicating that enterprises are making use of the funding support from these two schemes to set up new smart production facilities in Hong Kong, Prof Sun highlighted that funded enterprises will bring to Hong Kong the relevant technologies and expertise of product manufacturing, driving the development of Hong Kong’s new industrialisation and diversified economy.

     

    Moreover, the commission announced today that the New Industrialisation Vetting Committee has supported an application submitted by J Cube Semiconductor (Hong Kong) under the NIAS.

     

    The project plans to set up third-generation semiconductor silicon carbide wafer production facilities, which fall under the advanced manufacturing technology sector.

     

    The estimated total cost of the project is over $700 million, and the expected NIAS funding amount will be $200 million.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: e-Channel service extended

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Immigration Department announced today that the Automated Immigration Clearance e-Channel service will be extended to eligible People’s Republic of China (PRC) passport holders from tomorrow.

    Those aged 11 or above who hold a valid PRC electronic ordinary passport can use the e-Channel service, via face recognition technology, when transiting through Hong Kong to or from another country or territory without prior enrolment for the service. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Looking forward to present India’s vision for global peace, security at SCO meet: Rajnath Singh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday said that he is looking forward to present India’s vision for global peace and security and will also call for joint efforts to eliminate terrorism during the two-day Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) conclave in Qingdao, China.

    Singh is visiting the port city of Qingdao in eastern Shandong province to attend the SCO Defence Ministers’ meeting from June 25–26, where extensive deliberations are expected on the evolving regional security architecture.

    Rajnath Singh said on X: “Today, June 25, I shall be leaving for Qingdao, China, to take part in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ Meeting. I will have the opportunity to interact with various Defence Ministers on a wide range of issues. Looking forward to presenting India’s vision for global peace and security, and also, calling for joint and consistent efforts to eliminate terrorism.”

    Singh’s visit comes just over a month after Operation Sindoor, under which India conducted targeted airstrikes on nine high-value terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack.

    This marks the first visit to China by an Indian Union Minister since bilateral relations were severely strained by the military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh beginning in May 2020.

    Meanwhile, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is also in China for a meeting of SCO national security advisors.

    According to an official readout, Defence Minister Singh will reaffirm India’s commitment to the SCO’s core principles and objectives, while outlining New Delhi’s vision for enhanced regional cooperation to counter terrorism and extremism.

    In addition to addressing the plenary session, Singh is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with his counterparts from several participating nations, including China and Russia.

    The Ministry of Defence said: “India attaches special importance to SCO in promoting multilateralism, and fostering political, security, economic, and people-to-people interactions in the region. The SCO adheres to principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, non-interference in internal affairs, mutual respect, understanding, and equality among member states.”

    China is hosting the conclave as the current chair of the SCO.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • PM Modi pays tribute to defenders of democracy on ‘Samvidhan Hatya Diwas’

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Marking the 50th anniversary of the imposition of Emergency in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid heartfelt tribute to the countless Indians who stood in defence of democracy during what he described as one of the darkest chapters in the nation’s history.

    Observing June 25 as Samvidhan Hatya Diwas (Constitution Murder Day), the Prime Minister reflected on the grave assault on constitutional values that occurred during the Emergency period from 1975 to 1977. He highlighted how fundamental rights were suspended, press freedom was extinguished, and thousands of political leaders, social workers, students, and ordinary citizens were imprisoned.

    In a public statement, PM Modi reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to the Constitution and emphasized the importance of working collectively to realize the vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India). He noted that the anti-Emergency movement served as a critical learning experience and a reminder of the importance of preserving the democratic framework.

    Calling on all those who lived through or were affected by the Emergency, the Prime Minister encouraged citizens to share their stories and memories on social media. He said this would help create awareness among today’s youth about the events that took place during those turbulent years.

    In a series of posts on X, the Prime Minister remarked, “Today marks fifty years since one of the darkest chapters in India’s democratic history, the imposition of the Emergency. The people of India mark this day as Samvidhan Hatya Diwas. On this day, the values enshrined in the Indian Constitution were set aside, fundamental rights were suspended, press freedom was extinguished and several political leaders, social workers, students and ordinary citizens were jailed. It was as if the Congress Government in power at that time placed democracy under arrest.”

    He further stated, “No Indian will ever forget the manner in which the spirit of our Constitution was violated, the voice of Parliament muzzled and attempts were made to control the courts. The 42nd Amendment is a prime example of their shenanigans. The poor, marginalised and downtrodden were particularly targeted, including their dignity insulted.”

    Saluting the resilience of those who resisted the Emergency, Modi said, “We salute every person who stood firm in the fight against the Emergency. These were people from across India, from all walks of life and from diverse ideologies, united in their resolve to protect the democratic fabric of the nation. Their collective efforts ultimately led to the restoration of democracy and the defeat of the then Congress Government in the subsequent elections.”

    The Prime Minister also reiterated the present government’s resolve to uphold constitutional principles and pursue inclusive national development. “We also reiterate our commitment to strengthening the principles in our Constitution and working together to realise our vision of a Viksit Bharat. May we scale new heights of progress and fulfil the dreams of the poor and downtrodden,” he added.

    Sharing personal memories, PM Modi recalled, “When the Emergency was imposed, I was a young RSS Pracharak. The anti-Emergency movement was a learning experience for me. It reaffirmed the vitality of preserving our democratic framework. At the same time, I got to learn so much from people across the political spectrum.”

    The Prime Minister also mentioned the recently released book The Emergency Diaries, which documents his experiences during that time. He noted that the foreword to the book was written by former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, a veteran of the anti-Emergency movement.

    “I call upon all those who remember those dark days of the Emergency or those whose families suffered during that time to share their experiences on social media. It will create awareness among the youth of the shameful time from 1975 to 1977,” PM Modi said.

    The solemn occasion was a reminder of the resilience of India’s democratic institutions and the enduring spirit of its people in the face of authoritarianism.

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Harbin hosts international scientific conference dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the Victory in the World Anti-Fascist War

    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, June 25 (Xinhua) — An international academic conference dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War is being held at Heilongjiang University in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, from June 23 to 25, the Zhongxinshe News Agency reported.

    The event, with the main theme “Archives and the Memory of War Trauma,” brought together experts in archival science and history from China and Russia to discuss the key role of archival documents in recording, preserving and transmitting the memory of war trauma.

    “Archives are faithful witnesses of history, carrying the memory of the trauma caused by war,” said Cui Benqiang, vice-president of Heilongjiang University.

    Yuan Lili, secretary of the Party Committee of the Institute of Information Management of Heilongjiang University, said experts and scholars are discussing the role of archives in preserving and transmitting the memory of war trauma from various aspects, making their contribution to the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War.

    The event also featured speeches from scholars from Blagoveshchensk State Pedagogical University, Heilongjiang Provincial Academy of Social Sciences, Harbin Institute of Technology, the Museum of Crime Evidence of Unit 731, etc. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sport For All Day to be held on Aug 3

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Leisure & Cultural Services Department (LCSD) announced today that it will hold this year’s Sport For All Day on August 3.

    The event opens various recreation and sports activities to the public free of charge.

    With Hong Kong set to co-hosting the 15th National Games, the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the 9th National Special Olympic Games with Guangdong Province and Macau, the theme of this iteration of Sport For All Day will be “Coalescing together for the National Games”.

    Activities promoting various sports that will feature in the games – including golf, fencing, rugby sevens and triathlon – will be held from 2pm to 6pm on August 3 at designated sports centres in 18 districts.

    There will also be fitness activities, health talks, sports demonstrations, and a fun day for families, children, youngsters, the elderly and people with disabilities.

    LCSD facilities that will be open for free include indoor and outdoor leisure facilities, public swimming pools and water sports centres with craft for hire. Booking arrangements will be announced in mid-July.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: A Conversation with Lawrence Wong, Prime Minister of Singapore

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    A Conversation with Lawrence Wong, Prime Minister and Minister for Finance of Singapore

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2UoSPmSMxc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: 2nd Meeting of the East Asia Summit Group convenes at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat

    Source: ASEAN

    The Second Meeting of the Group of the East Asia Summit (EAS) Participating Countries’ Ambassadors to ASEAN in Jakarta (2/2025 EAS Group Meeting) convened today at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. The Meeting reviewed progress of the implementation of the EAS Plan of Action 2024–2028, discussed preparations for the upcoming 15th EAS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in July and outcome documents of 20th East Asia Summit in October 2025, and exchanged information on regional development cooperation initiatives. Ambassadors or representatives from EAS Participating Countries and the ASEAN Secretariat were in attendance. Timor-Leste attended as Observer.

    The post 2nd Meeting of the East Asia Summit Group convenes at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Algernon Yau attends forum in Paris

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau yesterday attended the China Forum, organised by Business France, in Paris, as he wrapped up a week-long visit to France.

    Speaking at the forum, Mr Yau remarked that Asia is currently contributing 60% to global economic growth. He added that Asia, and in particular the Mainland market, presents a unique opportunity for businesses looking to expand their horizons globally.

    He outlined that as a super connector between foreign investors and the Mainland, Hong Kong serves as a perfect springboard for French businesses to tap into the Mainland market.

    Mr Yau said that in 2024 Hong Kong’s total trade amounted to US$1,350 billion, making the city the world’s fifth-largest trading entity. Each year, he added, Hong Kong channels a massive volume of trade between the Mainland and the rest of the world.

    The commerce chief stated that under the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA), the most liberal free trade agreement ever offered by the Mainland, Hong Kong enterprises and professionals enjoy the most preferential access to the Mainland market. CEPA is “nationality neutral” and does not impose any restrictions on the source of investments.

    Mr Yau encouraged the French business sector to set up companies in Hong Kong as this would allow them to enjoy preferential treatment under CEPA in entering the Mainland market.

    He added that Hong Kong has a simple and low tax system and has no restrictions on the flow of capital.

    In addition to the Mainland market, Mr Yau explained that French businesses can access the Southeast Asian market by using Hong Kong as a base for their regional operations in Asia. He mentioned that Hong Kong is also deepening its trade ties with the Middle East and Association of Southeast Asian Nations countries, and is reaching out to Central Asia to explore new markets.

    Mr Yau stressed that Hong Kong already has strong links with France, adding that the French community is one of the largest and most successful in Hong Kong. He said he believes there is still significant trade potential between Hong Kong and France and that this can bring better synergy and mutual benefits.

    During his stay in Paris, Mr Yau also paid a courtesy call on Minister of the Chinese Embassy in France Chen Dong and briefed him on Hong Kong’s economic and trade situation, including new initiatives such as the reduction of liquor duty.

    Mr Yau also visited the headquarters of Elior Group SA to learn about the company’s operations and business development. He then hosted a dinner for representatives of the France Hong Kong Business Association to interact with local enterprises and exchange views on how to enhance co-operation between Hong Kong and France.

    Before proceeding to Paris, Mr Yau visited a wine cellar in Armagnac and met Armagnac trade representatives to promote Hong Kong’s advantages as a liquor trading hub.

    Mr Yau will depart for Hong Kong today.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi meets Singaporean PM, calling for boosting China-Singapore cooperation

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

    Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who is on an official visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, June 24, 2025. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)

    Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in Beijing on Tuesday.

    Xi congratulated Wong on his second term in office. Noting that this year marks the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Singapore, Xi highlighted that the two sides have consistently upheld mutual understanding and respect, which has provided a solid foundation for the stable and healthy development of bilateral relations.

    Cooperation between the two countries has aligned with China’s development priorities at various stages, yielding substantial outcomes such as the Suzhou Industrial Park, significantly contributing to each country’s modernization efforts, and also setting a benchmark for cooperation among regional nations, Xi noted.

    He called on both sides to draw experience and wisdom from the development process of bilateral relations, inherit and carry forward fine traditions, and enable the tree of China-Singapore friendship to thrive and bear abundant fruits.

    Xi emphasized that China and Singapore should firmly grasp the general direction of bilateral friendship, and continuously observe and develop China-Singapore relations from a strategic height and a long-term perspective.

    He called for consolidating the political foundation of China-Singapore friendship, supporting each other’s core interests and major concerns, and enhancing political mutual trust to facilitate the development of bilateral relations.

    China welcomes Singapore’s continued deep engagement in China’s development, Xi said, calling on both sides to promote Belt and Road cooperation, create landmark achievements in areas such as digital economy, green development and artificial intelligence, promote the improvement and upgrading of major projects, and continue to write a new chapter in high-quality cooperation.

    Both sides should encourage frequent people-to-people exchanges to deepen cultural exchanges and cooperation and strengthen the popular support for China-Singapore friendship, Xi said.

    China has always believed that peace, development, cooperation and mutual benefit are the unstoppable trend of the times, Xi said, adding that the world must not revert to hegemonism or be dragged back to the law of the jungle.

    China is willing to work with Singapore to stand on the right side of history and uphold fairness and justice, and jointly advocate for an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, Xi added.

    Wong said that Singapore and China share a deep-rooted and enduring friendship, and the two sides have always respected and trusted each other, ensuring the stable development of bilateral relations and close cooperation.

    Singapore will continue to adhere to the one-China policy and oppose “Taiwan independence,” Wong said.

    Singapore stands ready to fully leverage the opportunities brought about by China’s prosperity and development, expand bilateral trade and investment, enhance cooperation in digital economy, artificial intelligence, new energy and other fields, strengthen people-to-people exchanges, and advance Singapore-China relations to new heights, Wong said.

    In the face of a turbulent global landscape, Singapore is willing to strengthen coordination and cooperation with China on regional and multilateral platforms to jointly uphold multilateralism and the international order, Wong added.

    1   2   >  

    MIL OSI China News –