NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia

  • Nuclear watchdog IAEA sounds alarm over ‘grave threat’ following Iran atomic site attacks

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Tensions in the Middle East escalated dramatically following a series of devastating air attacks exchanged between Israel and Iran, triggered by a direct U.S. military strike on three of Iran’s major nuclear facilities. Explosions shook Tehran as Israel launched coordinated assaults on government and military installations across Iran. In retaliation, Iran fired multiple waves of missiles and drones into Israeli territory, with strikes reported in several cities.

    As part of its sweeping offensive, the Israeli Defense Forces targeted the entrance of Tehran’s Evin Prison—a high-security facility known for housing political prisoners, dual nationals, and regime critics—signaling an expansion of Israeli objectives beyond strictly military targets.

    Amid the intensifying crisis, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf declared that the legislature is weighing legislation to suspend all cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Qalibaf insisted Iran remains committed to peaceful nuclear activity but criticized the agency’s alleged politicization and failure to uphold its professional commitments. He warned that continued non-compliance by the IAEA could force Iran to withdraw entirely from cooperation.

    The conflict’s ripple effects spread across the region, prompting major energy companies operating in Iraq—such as Eni, BP, and Total Energies—to begin emergency evacuations of foreign personnel, according to Iraq’s state-run Basra Oil Company. Meanwhile, the U.S. Embassy in Qatar issued an urgent advisory instructing American citizens to stay indoors until further notice, citing the ongoing hostilities and U.S. air operations against Iranian nuclear infrastructure.

    In Vienna, Rafael Grossi, Director General of the IAEA, convened an emergency session of the agency’s Board of Governors to address the unfolding situation. He urged Iran to restore full IAEA access to nuclear facilities, particularly to monitor enriched uranium stockpiles. Grossi confirmed that Iran’s key sites at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan were struck by cruise missiles and ground-penetrating munitions. While no abnormal radiation levels have been detected off-site, he emphasized the urgency of negotiations and a return to technical oversight. IAEA inspectors remain in Iran and are prepared to resume their duties, he said.

    Grossi’s call for restraint and transparency came as Tehran signaled its intent to limit cooperation with the agency unless provided with credible assurances regarding the IAEA’s impartial conduct.

    As diplomatic efforts intensified, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Moscow. Expressing firm support for Iran, Putin condemned the U.S. and Israeli strikes as an “unprovoked act of aggression” and reiterated Russia’s strategic alliance with Tehran. He noted ongoing consultations with U.S. President Donald Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, UAE President Mohammed Al Nahyan, and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

    During the meeting, Araghchi denounced the attacks on Iran’s facilities as violations of international law and expressed gratitude for Russia’s steadfast position. Both sides affirmed their commitment to maintaining close coordination as the regional crisis continues to unfold.

  • AI 171 plane crash: 259 victims identified, DNA result awaited for one passenger

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Authorities in Gujarat on Tuesday confirmed that 259 of the 260 bodies recovered from the site of the June 12 Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad have been identified. The ill-fated flight, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner en route to London’s Gatwick Airport, crashed moments after takeoff, resulting in the deaths of 241 of the 242 individuals on board.
     
    Rakesh Joshi, Superintendent of Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, said the identified victims include 240 passengers and 19 non-passengers. “DNA test result of one passenger is still awaited,” he added. The current death toll is slightly lower than the initial estimate of 270, but officials have maintained caution in declaring a final figure. “The crash site is still being cleared. Unless we are certain that no additional victims are going to be found, we cannot confirm the final death toll,” Joshi said.
     
    Of the 256 bodies handed over to families, 253 were identified through DNA matching while six were recognised through facial identification. All 52 British nationals on board have been identified, with 49 bodies repatriated to the United Kingdom and the remaining three prepared for transport.
     
    The Air India aircraft crashed into a hostel complex of the BJ Medical College in the Meghani Nagar area of Ahmedabad shortly after departure from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Only one passenger survived. Among those who perished was former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani.
     
    In a statement issued on Sunday, Air India CEO and Managing Director Campbell Wilson reaffirmed the safety of the airline’s Boeing 787 fleet. “We have completed additional precautionary checks on our operating Boeing 787 fleet as requested by the DGCA. The aircraft have been deemed safe and meet the required standards,” Wilson said.
     
    (ANI)

  • Sensex, Nifty end higher amid Iran-Israel truce tensions

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian stock markets ended Tuesday on a positive note, even though benchmark indices gave up most of their early gains due to fresh geopolitical concerns.

    After rising over 1 per cent in early trade, both the Sensex and Nifty settled with modest gains as news emerged of a possible breach in the newly announced ceasefire between Iran and Israel.

    The Sensex had touched an intra-day high of 83,018.16 but later pared its gains and closed at 82,055.11. It still ended the day with a gain of 158.32 points, or 0.19 per cent.

    The Nifty, too, saw volatility through the day. It moved between 25,317.70 and 24,999.70 before settling at 25,044.35, up by 72.45 points or 0.29 per cent.

    Market experts said that while the initial surge was driven by optimism around the ceasefire announcement, the mood turned cautious after reports hinted at renewed tensions in the Middle East.

    “The Nifty’s failure to surpass the 25,200-resistance level indicates that the bears are still active and not ready to give in,” Ajit Mishra of Religare Broking Limited said.

    He added that participants are advised to maintain a positive yet cautious stance, with a strong focus on stock selection driven by sectoral trends.

    Among the top performers in the Nifty index were Adani Ports, Shriram Finance, Grasim Industries and Tata Steel. These stocks rose by 2.89 per cent.

    On the other hand, ONGC, IndusInd Bank, Power Grid Corporation, Trent and HCL Technologies were among the biggest losers, falling up to 2.90 per cent.

    Broader markets also ended higher. The Nifty Midcap100 index closed up 0.71 per cent, while the Nifty Smallcap100 gained 0.72 per cent.

    “Initial gains in the domestic market, driven by the ceasefire announcement and sharp drop in crude prices, were short-lived as renewed geopolitical tensions in the Middle East unsettled investor sentiment,” Vinod Nair of Geojit Investments Limited stated.

    “Going forward, the sustainability of an uptrend will hinge on the strength of domestic earnings, with optimism surrounding the upcoming Q1 results supported by favourable domestic macroeconomics,” he added.

    Volatility in the market eased slightly, as the India VIX — the volatility index — dropped 2.88 per cent to close at 13.64.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Deputy SJ visits Guangzhou

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Deputy Secretary for Justice Cheung Kwok-kwan today led a delegation to Guangzhou for a luncheon to exchange views with senior executives of Guangdong enterprises.

    The delegation included representatives from the Law Society, the Bar Association, Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing, the banking sector and the Advisory Group of Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Lawyers.

    During the exchange session, members of the delegation gave thematic presentations on Hong Kong’s unique advantages as an international legal hub and financing platform.

    Other presentation topics covered common legal issues in foreign-related financing, and protection of intellectual property rights in going global.

    The delegation also had an in-depth discussion with representatives of Mainland enterprises.

    Mr Cheung pointed out that it was the first time for the Department of Justice (DoJ) to bring together representatives from various professions to introduce the city’s unique advantages in connecting the Mainland and the world to Mainland entrepreneurs.

    Such a cross-professional approach brought multiple professional perspectives, enhancing the enterprises’ understanding of Hong Kong’s position as the best gateway for global expansion, he added.

    Mr Cheung also emphasised that enterprises need quality foreign-related professional services to assist them in opening up a “safe route” for going global successfully, and Hong Kong’s international professional services are positioned as key partners to enterprises expanding into overseas markets.

    More than 40 enterprises attended the exchange session hosted by the DoJ, the Financial Services & the Treasury Bureau and Invest Hong Kong, and co-organised by the Guangdong Chamber of International Commerce.

    After the session, Mr Cheung brought legal profession members of the delegation to hold a discussion with the Guangdong Lawyers Association, on how lawyers from both places could effectively assist enterprises in addressing practical legal issues arising from going global.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Solaris Gains Momentum with Confirmed LBank Exchange Listing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TALLINN, Estonia, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitcoin Solaris (BTC-S) has officially confirmed its upcoming listing on LBank, a leading centralized exchange known for accelerating the visibility and accessibility of promising digital assets. This announcement marks a major milestone in the Bitcoin Solaris roadmap, offering new liquidity opportunities for token holders and opening the door to global trading participation ahead of its public launch.

    Why LBank Listing Is a Game-Changer for Bitcoin Solaris

    LBank isn’t just another exchange. It’s a global launchpad for emerging crypto projects. With its strong community, aggressive marketing, and track record of igniting early token momentum, getting listed on LBank can instantly elevate a project’s credibility, exposure, and trading volume.

    For Bitcoin Solaris, this isn’t just a listing. It’s a strategic move that opens the floodgates for new investor capital ahead of its price jump from $9 to a confirmed $20 launch. And with over 12,300 unique presale participants already locked in, the LBank listing comes at the perfect time to ride that wave of momentum into secondary markets.

    Bitcoin Solaris: Built to Outpace the Old Guard

    Bitcoin Solaris operates on real-world delivery. It’s not just a whitepaper promise. It’s a dual-layer blockchain already tested to support:

    • 10,000 transactions per second
    • 2-second finality
    • 99.95% energy savings compared to Bitcoin
    • Solana-level speed with Bitcoin-grade trust

    The base layer runs Proof-of-Work for unmatched decentralization, while the Solaris Layer uses Delegated Proof-of-Stake for blazing-fast execution. This hybrid design is what makes BTC-S both secure and scalable, a rare combination.

    From Zero to Wealth: How BTC-S Levels the Crypto Playing Field

    LBank Fuels What Crypto Vlog Calls “The Perfect Entry Point”

    Influencer channels are buzzing about Bitcoin Solaris. Crypto Vlog, a respected voice in crypto reviews, recently released a full segment covering BTC-S’s presale strength, mobile-first mining model, and now the major catalyst that is the LBank listing.

    The review emphasizes how the listing could dramatically improve market depth, provide exposure to new retail and institutional buyers, and potentially trigger a liquidity surge during its first trading hours. For a project already trending, this is the match to the fuel.

    Mobile Mining and the New Wealth Paradigm

    Bitcoin Solaris lets users earn BTC-S tokens directly from their phones through the upcoming Solaris Nova app. This one-click mining interface supports:

    • Smartphones (iOS/Android)
    • Desktops and laptops
    • ASIC and GPU setups

    Users can preview earnings through the mining calculator, giving a real-time view of what mining participation can generate. And with the upcoming LBank liquidity, those tokens can now flow directly into global trading markets, no complex bridge required.

    Tokenomics: Designed for Demand and Scarcity

    Bitcoin Solaris follows a hard-capped 21 million supply model, mimicking Bitcoin’s deflationary success while adding modern distribution logic:

    • 66.66% allocated for mining (over 90 years)
    • 20% allocated to presale
    • 13.34% for liquidity and ecosystem expansion

    This structure ensures BTC-S isn’t just a short-term pump. It’s built for longevity, rewarding both miners and long-term holders.

    The Countdown to LBank: What Comes Next?

    Now that the LBank listing has been confirmed, Bitcoin Solaris is entering its next evolutionary phase:

    • Global trading opens for BTC-S
    • Wider audience gain across Asia, Europe, and LATAM
    • Accelerated roadmap execution: from testnet to full mainnet deployment
    • More exchange listings are already in negotiation

    Presale Frenzy: Phase 9 Heats Up with Over 12,300 Users Onboard

    Bitcoin Solaris isn’t just getting listed. It’s doing so while riding the momentum of one of the most explosive presales in crypto history. Currently in phase 9, BTC-S is priced at $9, with the final phase at $10 and a confirmed launch price of $20. That’s a 150% projected return, and it’s not speculation. It’s simple math.

    This is a limited-time event:

    • Bonus: 7% on all current purchases
    • Launch Date: July 31, 2025
    • Over 12,300+ participants already locked in
    • More than $5 million raised and counting
    • Less than 6 weeks remain before doors close

    With the LBank listing around the corner, buyers are racing to grab BTC-S before it hits open markets and the price doubles. If you missed TRON under a penny or Solana under a dollar, this could be your moment to rewrite the playbook.

    Final Word

    With a strategic exchange partnership confirmed and a robust ecosystem in place, Bitcoin Solaris is rapidly shifting from early-stage token to fully operational blockchain platform. The upcoming LBank listing is not just a moment of market entry—it’s the start of a new phase of accessibility, growth, and real-world use.

    As the final presale phase concludes and launch day draws closer, early supporters are positioning themselves ahead of the transition into global trading.

    Explore Bitcoin Solaris:

    Website: bitcoinsolaris.com
     Telegram: t.me/Bitcoinsolaris
     X: x.com/BitcoinSolaris.

    Media Contact

    Xander Levine

    press@bitcoinsolaris.com

    Press Kit: Available upon request

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Bitcoin Solaris. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/20e8a5ff-539d-487e-ba58-44407ae8d95b

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fe62cbd5-8eec-4209-98f6-285899126e0c

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ecf38dc9-478c-4c6b-aeea-51c023695b01

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1e5a479f-aea8-4517-9114-9520318a9121

    The MIL Network –

  • Operation Sindhu: IAF brings back 268 Indian nationals from Israel

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Tuesday repatriated 286 Indian nationals from Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, who had been residing in Israel. With this, the total number of Indian citizens brought back from Israel has risen to 594.

    Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs L. Murugan welcomed the Indian nationals upon their arrival in New Delhi.

    This is the second IAF flight bringing back the Indians from Israel. Earlier in the day, an IAF flight carrying 165 Indians had arrived in the national capital from Amman.

    The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) shared on X, “268 Indian nationals who returned in the third flight from Israel were received by MoS L. Murugan. The IAF C-17 flight from Sharm-El-Sheikh, Egypt, landed in Delhi at 1100 hrs on June 24. 594 Indians have returned so far from Israel as part of Operation Sindhu.”

    The IAF joined Operation Sindhu with its C-17 aircraft to evacuate the Indian nationals and the citizens of friendly nations, including Nepal and Sri Lanka, from war-hit Israel and bring them back home to safety.

    Earlier today, the MEA said that the Israel leg of Operation Sindhu that started on June 23, via Jordan, marking its first successful repatriation flight, with 161 citizens landed in New Delhi from Amman on Tuesday morning.

    Meanwhile, a similar evacuation process continued in Iran, and so far 2,295 Indian nationals have been brought back home, according to the MEA.

    The Government of India has launched Operation Sindhu, a strategic evacuation initiative to repatriate Indian nationals stranded in both countries.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • India spinner Dilip Doshi dies aged 77

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Former India left-arm spinner Dilip Doshi has died at the age of 77 in London following heart-related complications, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said on Monday.

    Doshi played 33 Test matches for India between 1979 and 1983, taking 114 wickets at an average of 30.71, including six five-wicket hauls. He also featured in 15 One Day Internationals, picking up 22 wickets at an economy rate of 3.96.

    A late entrant to international cricket, Doshi made his Test debut at the age of 32, following the era of India’s renowned spin quartet. He represented Saurashtra and Bengal in domestic cricket and played county cricket in England for Warwickshire and Nottinghamshire, finishing his first-class career with 898 wickets in 238 matches.

    The BCCI, in a media advisory, described Doshi as “a true artist of spin bowling” and “a dedicated servant of Indian cricket.”

    “He inspired a generation of cricketers with his skill and dedication,” BCCI President Roger Binny said. “His contribution to Indian cricket will always be remembered.”

    BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia said Doshi had “a calm demeanour and a fiercely competitive spirit,” calling him “a remarkable cricketer and a great human being.”

    Doshi’s performance in the 1981 Melbourne Test, where he claimed a five-wicket haul, played a key role in one of India’s most notable overseas victories. He later authored an autobiography, Spin Punch, chronicling his cricketing journey. Garfield Sobers, the West Indies great, was among those who influenced Doshi during his time at Nottinghamshire.

    Doshi is survived by his family, including his son Nayan Doshi, a former first-class cricketer.

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Transitional registration to conclude

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau today welcomed the completion of the evaluation and approval procedures for all proprietary Chinese medicines (pCms) with transitional registration by the Chinese Medicine Council of Hong Kong (CMCHK).

     

    The CMCHK announced today that the evaluation and approval process for converting the transitional registrations of pCm to formal registrations has been completed.

     

    The Department of Health explained that the transitional registration system for pCm will conclude on June 30 and by then, all pCms sold in Hong Kong must have valid formal registrations.

     

    Prof Lo noted that this marks an important milestone for the regulation of Chinese medicine (CM) in Hong Kong, ensuring the public’s access to quality and safe pCms, while also supporting Hong Kong’s development as a bridgehead for the internationalisation of CM.

     

    He pointed out that Hong Kong-registered pCms will become a key component in CM development as well as health and medical innovation.

     

    “With Hong Kong’s robust regulatory system for pCms, its brand effect can attract more high-quality pCms from the Mainland and overseas to register in the city, thereby assisting the industry in further expanding into global markets and accelerating the internationalisation of CM.”

     

    To assist holders of transitionally registered pCms in obtaining formal registration as early as possible, the Health Bureau has previously provided funding to the industry through the Chinese Medicine Development Fund.

     

    Under the Proprietary Chinese Medicine Registration Support Scheme, subsidies were granted to holders of transitionally registered pCms to engage professional consultants for advice on formal registration matters and to conduct necessary laboratory tests.

     

    Moving forward, the Government said it will continue to collaborate with the CM industry to jointly promote the innovation and development of CM.

     

    In addition, the Health Bureau will release the Chinese Medicine Development Blueprint by the end of this year, which will include more strategies to comprehensively enhance the development of CM in Hong Kong.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Garden Stage Limited Regains Compliance with Nasdaq Minimum Bid Price Listing Requirements

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Hong Kong, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Garden Stage Limited (NASDAQ: GSIW) (“GSIW” or the “Company”), today announced that on June 23, 2025, the Company received written notice from the Listing Qualifications Department of The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) that the Company has regained compliance with the minimum closing bid price requirement under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(a)(2).

    As previously disclosed , the company received a delinquency notification letter (the “Notice”) from the Listing Qualifications Department of The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) on December 24, 2024 indicating that the Company is not currently in compliance with the minimum bid price requirement set forth in Nasdaq’s Listing Rules for continued listing on the Nasdaq Capital Market, as the closing bid price for the Company’s ordinary shares listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market was below $1.00 per share for 30 consecutive business days. Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(a)(2) requires listed securities to maintain a minimum bid price of $1.00 per share, and Nasdaq Listing Rule 5810(c)(3)(A) provides that a failure to meet the minimum bid price requirement exists if the deficiency continues for a period of 30 consecutive business days. The Notice provides that the Company has a period of 180 calendar days from the date of the Notice, or until June 23, 2025, to regain compliance with the minimum bid price requirement. This requirement was met on June 23, 2025.

    About Garden Stage Limited

    GSIW, through our Operating Subsidiaries, are a Hong Kong-based financial services provider principally engaged in the provision of (i) placing and underwriting services; (ii) securities dealing and brokerage services; (iii) asset management services; and (iv) investment advisory services. Our operation is carried out through our wholly-owned Operating Subsidiaries: a) I Win Securities Limited, which is licensed to conduct Type 1 (dealing in securities) regulated activities under the SFO in Hong Kong, and b) I Win Asset Management Limited, which is licensed to conduct Type 4 (advising on securities) and Type 9 (asset management) regulated activities under the SFO in Hong Kong. I Win Securities Limited is the Stock Exchange Participant and holds one Stock Exchange Trading Right. I Win Securities Limited is a participant of the HKSCC.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident” and similar statements. The Company may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in verbal statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about the Company’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of the press release, and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

    For more information, please contact:

    Garden Stage Limited
    Chan Sze Ho
    Chief Executive Officer
    Email: rickychan@iwinsec.com
    Tel: (852) 2688 6333

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Adesina spotlights African Development Bank’s role in delivering Mattei Plan and Global Gateway investments across Africa to drive industrial growth


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    African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina has reaffirmed the Bank’s central role in advancing Africa’s connectivity, industrialization, and regional integration through strategic investments aligned with Italy’s Mattei Plan and the European Union’s Global Gateway initiative. 

    Speaking at the joint Mattei Plan–Global Gateway Summit (https://apo-opa.co/3ZJy5Jx) held in Rome on Friday 20 June, Adesina emphasized the progress made by the African Development Bank in turning strategic priorities into action—from infrastructure and energy to digital connectivity and value chains. He called for greater alignment between partners and accelerated delivery on the ground, noting that the Bank’s investments are already helping reshape regional trade and economic resilience. 

    He underscored for instance the Bank’s catalytic role in the Lobito Corridor, with $1 billion committed over five years for value chain development and urban infrastructure. He also mentioned the development of the Tanzania–DRC–Burundi railway network, where the Bank is helping mobilize a $3.9 billion package alongside international partners. These efforts, he noted, reflect a coherent strategy to transform Africa’s economic geography through inclusive, green growth 

    Stretching from the Atlantic port of Lobito in Angola to the heart of the continent, the Lobito Corridor is a vital route for moving minerals, goods and people across Angola, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo—unlocking huge trade and industrial opportunities for landlocked countries. 

    These developments were highlighted as international partners gathered to align efforts around new cooperation frameworks—the European Union’s Global Gateway (https://apo-opa.co/3I9xwT6) and Italy’s recent Mattei Plan (https://apo-opa.co/4kV5xVV)—which aim to deepen investment with Africa in energy, agriculture, infrastructure, and digital innovation.  

    Adesina reaffirmed the Bank’s role as a key implementing partner for both initiatives. The Mattei Plan, launched by Italy in 2024, is designed to foster equal partnerships with African countries, with a focus on strategic sectors including energy, agriculture, and migration. The Global Gateway, the EU’s €300 billion investment strategy, similarly targets infrastructure development worldwide, with €150 billion earmarked for Africa. 

    A cornerstone of this implementation is the operationalization of the Rome Process/Mattei Plan Financing Facility, which is a dedicated mechanism hosted by the Bank to accelerate climate-resilient infrastructure projects. The Facility’s inaugural Governing Council has already met and approved an initial pipeline of operations across energy, water, and transport sectors. 

    “We have established a Special Fund, and its inaugural Governing Council has already met to begin evaluating projects, including the Lobito Corridor (https://apo-opa.co/4nkyn3K),” Adesina said. 

    Underscoring the Bank’s leadership, he noted that Africa’s premier development finance institution has invested more than $55 billion in infrastructure over the past decade, making it the largest financier of regional transport corridors in Africa. 

    European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU’s long-term commitment: “Global Gateway is an investment agenda that combines public and private capital… Africa is a continent of abundance—what’s missing is connectivity.” 

    Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni added: “These are not top-down initiatives, but concrete projects shaped through dialogue and a shared desire for lasting development. The approach Italy has implemented is clear: respect, responsibility, vision.”  

    A key pillar of this transformation, Adesina noted, is energy access. He highlighted Mission 300, the joint African Development Bank—World Bank initiative to connect 300 million Africans to electricity and announced ongoing negotiations for a €165 million package with the European Commission to scale up renewable energy under the program. 

    Adesina urged donors to support a robust 17th replenishment of the Bank Group’s soft loan arm for low-income countries — the African Development Fund – scheduled for this year, to sustain the momentum of the Mattei Plan and Global Gateway. He concluded: “Together, let us do more with Africa.” 

    In a related development, the African Development Bank has signed a Letter of Intent with the Government of Zambia to advance the development of the Lobito Corridor, a transformative regional transport initiative connecting Southern and Central Africa.  

    The project entails the construction of approximately 550 km of railway from Chingola in Zambia’s Copperbelt to the Angolan border, as well as the upgrading of 260 km of road between Chisese and Jimbe via Mwinilunga.  

    The initiative builds on a broader Memorandum of Understanding between the Bank, Zambia, Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and international partners including the United States, the European Commission, Italy, and the Africa Finance Corporation. It aims to strengthen regional trade, improve transport infrastructure, and drive economic integration across the region. 

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

    Contact: 
    Jonathan Clayton 
    Communication and External Relations Department
    media@afdb.org  

    About the African Development Bank Group: 
    The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 44 African countries with an external office in Japan, the AfDB contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to invite foreign leaders to events marking 80th anniversary of war against Japanese aggression, fascism 2025-06-24 16:49:15

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) — China will invite foreign leaders, former political dignitaries, high-level officials and heads of international organizations to events marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

      Foreign envoys, military attachés and representatives of international organizations in China, as well as foreign friends who contributed to China’s victory in the war or representatives of their family members will also be invited, according to a press briefing held Tuesday to announce the plans for the commemoration.

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s UN peacekeeping veterans to participate in Sept. 3 military parade 2025-06-24 16:49:15

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) — Chinese troops with UN peacekeeping experiences will participate in the Sept. 3 military parade marking the 80th anniversary of the victory against Japanese aggression and fascism, said a senior military officer at a press conference on Tuesday.

      This arrangement not only highlights China’s solemn commemoration of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, but also demonstrates the country’s commitment to fulfilling international obligations and safeguarding world peace, said Wu Zeke, a senior officer of the Joint Staff Department of the Central Military Commission.

      Wu noted that throughout the 35 years since China joined UN peacekeeping operations, the Chinese military has deployed more than 50,000 peacekeepers to over 20 countries and regions, undertaking 26 UN peacekeeping missions. A total of 17 Chinese servicemembers have made the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of world peace, Wu added.

      From mine clearance and ceasefire monitoring to security patrols and emergency rescue operations, Chinese peacekeepers have consistently demonstrated courage and professionalism in the face of armed conflicts, pandemic outbreaks and natural disasters, faithfully fulfilling their mandate to safeguard peace and stability, according to Wu.

      “The Chinese military has always been a steadfast force for world peace,” said Wu. 

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s Sept. 3 military parade to display improved weapons, equipment 2025-06-24 16:49:15

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) — The weapons and equipment to be displayed in China’s Sept. 3 military parade embody the Chinese military’s system-based combat capabilities, new-domain and new-quality combat strength and strategic deterrence power, said a senior military officer at a press conference on Tuesday.

      All the equipment and weapons to be displayed during the parade will be active-duty main battle equipment. They embody China’s independent innovation capacity in weapons and equipment development, said Wu Zeke, a senior officer of the Joint Staff Department of the Central Military Commission.

      These weapons and equipment are all domestically produced and offer higher strike precision, improved battlefield adaptability and greater combat effectiveness, according to Wu.

      China announced on Tuesday that it will hold a military parade in Tian’anmen Square in Beijing on Sept. 3 to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

      Wu added that all weapons and equipment in the parade will be selected from combat units of various services and arms — including elements of strategic strike forces, advanced operational and tactical equipment, as well as new types of forces suited to future warfare.

      The equipment on display will also cover a full spectrum of capabilities, such as command and control, reconnaissance and early warning, air and missile defense, fire strike and integrated support.

      In addition, the parade is organized according to combat groups, embodying the core principles of information dominance, system-of-systems support, elite force operations and joint-force victory, said Wu.

      Wu added that in recent years, China has overcome numerous cutting-edge technological challenges and developed a large array of advanced weapons and equipment, ushering in a new era in its armaments development.

      New-generation aircraft carriers, destroyers, stealth fighters, drones and strategic missiles have been rapidly commissioned, marking a great leap forward in the Chinese military’s armaments development — and providing strong support for a substantial boost in combat capabilities, said Wu.

      “This has given our military greater confidence in its ability to fight and win,” added Wu.

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Manchester prepares to commemorate Armed Forces Day

    Source: City of Manchester

    Mancunians across the city are expected to line the streets to honour the bravery and sacrifice of those who have served in the armed forces for Armed Forces Day (28 June).

    A parade made up of armed forces personnel, veterans and cadets will begin a procession that will proudly march together through the centre of Manchester.  

    The LA Band will officially signal the event opening at 11:00am swiftly followed by the vibrant parade starting in St Peter’s Square at 11:30am.  

    The Lord Mayor, Councillor Carmine Grimshaw, will then lead an inspection with dignitaries. Other esteemed guests in attendance will also be Councillor Tommy Judge and Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester.

    The Deputy Lieutenant will give a speech at 11:50am and the honorary celebrations will continue with an afternoon of live performances by the lively Lancashire Army Artillery Band and music hosted by BBC Radio DJ, Michelle Dignan, until 4:00pm. 

    Historic military displays, and stalls from organisations including the NHS, Royal British Legion, and the Council’s own Armed Forces Covenant will be in attendance to give visitors the opportunity to further support the Armed Forces community. 

    This year’s Armed Forces Day is particularly special because it marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE Day 8 May) and Victory over Japan (VJ Day 15 August). 

    As part of the ‘Thank You for Your Service’ campaign, a series of heartfelt video tributes will be broadcast throughout the day, offering a powerful expression of gratitude for the dedication, sacrifice, and service of the armed forces. These messages, shared across generations, reflect the deep personal impact of military service on individuals and families alike. 

    Visitors will also be invited to contribute their own messages of appreciation – whether for family members, friends, or colleagues who have served or are currently serving – creating a collective tribute of national thanks. 

    On the ground, history will come to life through a special pop-up Military Museum tent. Attendees can explore an engaging display of military vehicles, uniforms, artefacts, and personal stories that span the rich legacy of the British armed forces. 

    This immersive experience offers a rare opportunity to connect with the past, understand the evolution of military service, and honour those who have shaped the nation’s history through their courage and commitment. 

    Councillor Tommy Judge, Lead Member for Armed Forces, said: “Armed Forces Day is our opportunity to stand side by side with the incredible individuals who serve and have served in our armed forces. Their bravery, sacrifice and commitment do not go unnoticed, and this event is our heartfelt way of saying thank you.  

    “This year is very special as we are also honouring VE and VJ Day – two momentous moments in our armed forces history which we must not forget. I encourage everyone to join us for a day of pride, remembrance, and community.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China Creates New Healthcare Blueprint for the World

    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

    CHENGDU, June 24 (Xinhua) — How to ensure access to advanced medical services in remote and underdeveloped areas? Can customized medical solutions meet unique needs? With such questions in mind, China is accelerating technological development, creating a new healthcare scheme that benefits the world.

    Jotham Kimondo, a 35-year-old doctoral student from Tanzania, studies at the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China in Chengdu, capital of southwest China’s Sichuan Province.

    Under the guidance of Professor Wu Zhe of Chengdu Tianfu Jincheng Advanced Medical Equipment Research Institute, J. Kimondo is engaged in the development of ultrasonic medical devices.

    As a teacher in Tanzania, J. Kimondo is keen to bring ultrasound equipment design and manufacturing to China to help his country.

    “My research involves innovative design of ultrasound medical devices to monitor pathological changes in human tissues – an important indicator of disease. Women in Tanzania still rely on traditional methods, such as palpation, to examine their breasts. This approach is highly dependent on the individual experience of doctors and is not always accurate. Some women refuse examinations altogether,” explained J. Kimondo.

    He added that many diseases still affect Tanzanians: “I want to improve healthcare in Tanzania, to help people stay healthy. Joint development of innovative ultrasound equipment will be very useful for early screening of breast diseases and other diseases, especially when these devices become more accessible and cheaper for promotion in African countries.”

    There are more than 53 advanced medical companies registered in the Tianfu Jincheng Future Medicine Laboratory City, which are exploring cutting-edge innovation and integrative medicine.

    Recently, at the Remote Ultrasound Center of Tianfu Jincheng Institute, a doctor held an online consultation with a colleague from the Second People’s Hospital of Chengdu East New Area, giving instructions on how to use a portable ultrasound device on a patient’s carotid artery.

    Ultrasound data was displayed in real time on a shared screen, allowing doctors to directly discuss pathologies and make professional diagnoses.

    “Traditional expensive ultrasound machines cost millions. In western China, rural residents often have to travel to county hospitals for checkups,” Wu Zhe explained.

    “Our goal is to ensure widespread use of portable ultrasound devices in rural areas for early diagnosis and monitoring of chronic diseases. Our portable equipment is much cheaper and easier to use in grassroots health care facilities,” he added.

    The portable, smartphone-sized device has already been used in more than 10 medical institutions in eastern Chengdu, providing free carotid artery and thyroid examinations to more than 2,000 residents.

    With China’s growing capabilities in industrial design, manufacturing and medical research, innovation in medical equipment development is rapidly advancing. Growing recognition of Chinese medical devices in overseas markets is increasing international orders, spurring Chinese companies to enter the global market.

    At the Future Medicine Laboratory City, employees of Chengdu Seamaty Technology Co., Ltd. pack reagents for biochemical testing. This batch is being prepared for shipment from Chengdu to destinations around the world.

    This “small giant” company, which develops diagnostic equipment for rapid analysis, already supplies products to more than 150 countries and regions around the world.

    At its quality control center, hundreds of fully automated biochemistry analyzers undergo pre-shipment inspection.

    “This batch of equipment will be shipped to Europe. Last year, the company’s sales were 320 million yuan (about $44.6 million), and in the first five months of this year, our international business grew 59 percent year on year,” said Deputy General Manager Wang Bin, noting that the increase in overseas orders reflects the growing recognition of Chinese medical devices in global markets.

    Innovative technologies such as 3D printing, organs-on-a-chip, nanorobots and neural interfaces are advancing medical device research and application in China, shaping the medical landscape of the future.

    At Chengdu Tianqi Additive Intelligent Manufacturing, 3D printing is used to create personalized medical solutions. Using computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) and layer-by-layer printing, virtual designs are transformed into the intended physical products.

    In a modern workshop, dozens of industrial printers work in an orderly manner, and a laser engraver with an accuracy of 0.01 mm creates patterns in titanium powder.

    Customized titanium plates for maxillofacial surgery are printed in a matter of hours. This seemingly ordinary industrial scene reflects China’s significant progress in high-precision, intelligent manufacturing of medical devices.

    Compared to manual plate bending in the past, 3D printing provides more accurate, convenient and safer production of customized products.

    “We are currently working on a custom order for a patient in Singapore. Engineers upload the patient’s data into the system, and AI algorithms help designers create personalized models for facial reconstruction, which are then printed entirely on metal 3D printers,” said Gao Bancui, marketing director at Chengdu Tianqi Additive Intelligent Manufacturing.

    He added that in the future, the company will focus on serving countries in the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Asia to meet the individual medical needs of more countries along the Belt and Road Initiative. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Launching Ceremony for Energy Saving Charter 2025 and 4T Charter held today (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Launching Ceremony for Energy Saving Charter 2025 and 4T Charter held today  
    Speaking at the launching ceremony, the Under Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Miss Diane Wong, said that to align with the country’s “dual carbon” target, the Government will continue to implement the four major decarbonisation strategies, namely net-zero electricity generation, energy saving and green buildings, green transport and waste reduction, to reduce Hong Kong’s carbon emissions by half from the 2005 levels before 2035, and achieve carbon neutrality before 2050.
     
    Miss Wong said, “Promoting energy saving and green buildings can reduce power consumption and the demand for power generation, and help society transition to using more clean fuels for electricity generation. The Buildings Energy Efficiency (Amendment) Bill 2025, which was passed by the Legislative Council on June 11, not only improves the buildings energy efficiency management regime of Hong Kong, but also helps to achieve a win-win scenario of saving electricity costs for buildings, reducing carbon emissions, and boosting the development of the green economy, thereby assisting Hong Kong to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.”
     
    This year, over 3 400 premises have signed up to the Energy Saving Charter 2025. They pledged to maintain the average indoor temperature at their premises between 24 and 26 degrees Celsius during the summer months from June to September, switch off appliances when not in use, procure energy-efficient appliances, promote the use of renewable energy, and share with staff and students energy-saving measures and achievements. As for the 4T Charter, over 830 premises have joined by setting an energy-saving target with an action timeline, enhancing data transparency and encouraging stakeholders to work together to enhance energy saving. The EMSD will provide participating organisations with information on relevant innovative technologies and arrange seminars, to promote the development of green technology in Hong Kong while practicing energy saving and reducing carbon emission.
     
    The Energy Saving Competition for Students 2025 was also launched during the ceremony. It taps into the creativity and imagination of the younger generation for implementing energy-saving measures and adopting renewable and clean energy more extensively. Details of the Energy Saving Charter 2025, 4T Charter, and Energy Saving Competition for Students 2025 were uploaded to www.energysaving.gov.hkIssued at HKT 18:05

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Missing man in Wan Chai located

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    A man who went missing in Wan Chai has been located.

    Lam Leung-kin, Eric, aged 44, went missing after he was last seen on Lockhart Road on June 21 afternoon. His family made a report to Police on June 22.

    The man was located in a shopping mall on Siu Lek Yuen Road, Sha Tin this afternoon (June 24). He sustained no injuries and no suspicious circumstances were detected.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: C&D Inc. Shares Three Key Experiences to Help Chinese Enterprises Navigate Global Commodity Risks

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HANGZHOU, China, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the era of Globalization 3.0 approaches—marked by rising calls for “de-globalization” on one hand, and the vigorous global expansion of Chinese enterprises on the other—the “Born to Be Global” 2nd Global Summit of Chinese Enterprises Going Overseas and 2025 Mid-Year Industry Summit was held at the National University of Singapore from June 19 to 20, 2025.

    Jointly launched by Hangzhou Ba Jiu Ling Cultural Creative Co., Ltd., Jidang Business Studies, and the Sino-Commercial Overseas Industrial Alliance (SCOIA), and co-organized by C&D Inc., the summit brought together over 50 political and business leaders, along with representatives from international business associations and more than 1,000 corporate delegates from China and abroad, to explore the latest trends and opportunities in global expansion.

    As a leading player in the supply chain sector, C&D Inc. was invited to share its insights on using futures instruments to help global enterprises mitigate the risks of commodity price volatility in international markets.

    Li Zhi, General Manager of the Futures Management Department of the Risk Control Center, C&D Inc., delivering a keynote speech at the summit.

    In his speech titled “Proactive Risk Management: Tackling Supply Chain Black Swans,” Li Zhi highlighted the key challenges faced by Chinese enterprises going global. Drawing from historical lessons and innovative practices, he offered a systematic analysis of how futures instruments can play a critical role in stabilizing global supply chains.

    In his presentation, Li Zhi highlighted three core concepts in price risk management: Breakthrough, Exploration, and Transformation.

    Breakthrough: From the “Soybean Incident” to Financial Tool Innovation

    Li Zhi began his speech by revisiting the 2004 “Soybean Incident,” a crisis that shook China’s grain and oil industry. The international soybean market underwent extreme volatility over a six-month period—prices surged and plunged by more than 50%—driven by multiple factors, including the price discovery mechanisms of the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT). The shock was severe for China’s soybean processing sector, which was highly dependent on imports. “Nearly 1,000 Chinese companies went bankrupt,“ he said, “with 85% of the processing capacity shifting to foreign ownership, resulting in total economic losses exceeded 15 billion yuan (approximately USD 2.1 billion)”.

    The crisis became a catalyst for change. According to Li Zhi, the adoption of futures instruments helped compress the price volatility of soybeans from 1,300 cents to just 210 cents per bushel—an 85% reduction. This has been a key factor in preventing similar crises since the “Soybean Incident.”

    Leveraging futures instruments to effectively manage price volatility has become a critical strategy for enterprises seeking to navigate international markets.

    Exploration: C&D Inc.’s Three Core Practices

    Even today, many Chinese enterprises remain unfamiliar with the use of futures instruments in global markets. Citing data, Li Zhi noted that 98% of Fortune 500 companies utilize financial derivatives for hedging purposes, whereas only about 30% of non-financial listed firms on China’s A-share market do the same.

    With four decades of experience in international operations, C&D Inc. stands out as a leading Chinese enterprise in the strategic use of financial derivatives within the supply chain sector.

    During his speech, Li Zhi shared how C&D Inc. has built an effective framework for using futures instruments, structured around three core pillars: risk control, business operations, and research. He distilled this approach into a guiding principle: “Risk control comes first, business forms the foundation, and research supports the base.”

    Transformation: From Managing Its Own Risks to Empowering Others
    As C&D Inc. has matured in its application of futures instruments, it has progressively integrated its proprietary futures framework into its broader supply chain services. By leveraging these tools, the company has helped over 900 industrial clients build robust risk management shields—enabling stable upstream pricing, consistent midstream margins, and predictable downstream costs.

    As acclaimed Chinese financial commentator Wu Xiaobo observed, “C&D Inc. has transformed its externally driven resource integration capabilities into internally driven service delivery—offering end-to-end support across information, logistics, and finance.”

    As Chinese enterprises embark on this new wave of globalization, it is companies like C&D Inc.—with deep operational experience and robust overseas supply chain capabilities—that must step forward to share their know-how and open up their resources. Only then can Chinese firms expand globally in a more professional, secure, and efficient manner.
    In closing, Li Zhi emphasized, “In this new era of global navigation, only by jointly building a shared risk-bearing mechanism can Chinese enterprises chart a steady course through turbulent global waters and achieve sustainable success.”

    “One struggles alone, but thrives together.” This is not only a recognition of C&D Inc.’s forward-thinking practices, but also a broader call for Chinese enterprises to embrace collective resilience in navigating global risks.

    Organization: Hangzhou Ba Jiu Ling Cultural Creative Co., Ltd

    Contact Person: Daisy Xing

    Website: www.890xsx.com

    Email: xingqian@890media.com

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by Hangzhou Ba Jiu Ling Cultural Creative Co., Ltd. The statements, views, and opinions expressed are solely those of the provider and do not necessarily reflect those of this media platform or its publisher. Any names or brands mentioned are used for identification purposes only and remain the property of their respective owners. No endorsement or guarantee is made regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. This material is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. Readers are encouraged to conduct independent research and consult qualified professionals. The publisher is not liable for any losses, damages, or legal issues arising from the use or publication of this content.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0e91b3b9-e047-44c6-949c-f709ac13fc92

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: C&D Inc. Shares Three Key Experiences to Help Chinese Enterprises Navigate Global Commodity Risks

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HANGZHOU, China, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the era of Globalization 3.0 approaches—marked by rising calls for “de-globalization” on one hand, and the vigorous global expansion of Chinese enterprises on the other—the “Born to Be Global” 2nd Global Summit of Chinese Enterprises Going Overseas and 2025 Mid-Year Industry Summit was held at the National University of Singapore from June 19 to 20, 2025.

    Jointly launched by Hangzhou Ba Jiu Ling Cultural Creative Co., Ltd., Jidang Business Studies, and the Sino-Commercial Overseas Industrial Alliance (SCOIA), and co-organized by C&D Inc., the summit brought together over 50 political and business leaders, along with representatives from international business associations and more than 1,000 corporate delegates from China and abroad, to explore the latest trends and opportunities in global expansion.

    As a leading player in the supply chain sector, C&D Inc. was invited to share its insights on using futures instruments to help global enterprises mitigate the risks of commodity price volatility in international markets.

    Li Zhi, General Manager of the Futures Management Department of the Risk Control Center, C&D Inc., delivering a keynote speech at the summit.

    In his speech titled “Proactive Risk Management: Tackling Supply Chain Black Swans,” Li Zhi highlighted the key challenges faced by Chinese enterprises going global. Drawing from historical lessons and innovative practices, he offered a systematic analysis of how futures instruments can play a critical role in stabilizing global supply chains.

    In his presentation, Li Zhi highlighted three core concepts in price risk management: Breakthrough, Exploration, and Transformation.

    Breakthrough: From the “Soybean Incident” to Financial Tool Innovation

    Li Zhi began his speech by revisiting the 2004 “Soybean Incident,” a crisis that shook China’s grain and oil industry. The international soybean market underwent extreme volatility over a six-month period—prices surged and plunged by more than 50%—driven by multiple factors, including the price discovery mechanisms of the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT). The shock was severe for China’s soybean processing sector, which was highly dependent on imports. “Nearly 1,000 Chinese companies went bankrupt,“ he said, “with 85% of the processing capacity shifting to foreign ownership, resulting in total economic losses exceeded 15 billion yuan (approximately USD 2.1 billion)”.

    The crisis became a catalyst for change. According to Li Zhi, the adoption of futures instruments helped compress the price volatility of soybeans from 1,300 cents to just 210 cents per bushel—an 85% reduction. This has been a key factor in preventing similar crises since the “Soybean Incident.”

    Leveraging futures instruments to effectively manage price volatility has become a critical strategy for enterprises seeking to navigate international markets.

    Exploration: C&D Inc.’s Three Core Practices

    Even today, many Chinese enterprises remain unfamiliar with the use of futures instruments in global markets. Citing data, Li Zhi noted that 98% of Fortune 500 companies utilize financial derivatives for hedging purposes, whereas only about 30% of non-financial listed firms on China’s A-share market do the same.

    With four decades of experience in international operations, C&D Inc. stands out as a leading Chinese enterprise in the strategic use of financial derivatives within the supply chain sector.

    During his speech, Li Zhi shared how C&D Inc. has built an effective framework for using futures instruments, structured around three core pillars: risk control, business operations, and research. He distilled this approach into a guiding principle: “Risk control comes first, business forms the foundation, and research supports the base.”

    Transformation: From Managing Its Own Risks to Empowering Others
    As C&D Inc. has matured in its application of futures instruments, it has progressively integrated its proprietary futures framework into its broader supply chain services. By leveraging these tools, the company has helped over 900 industrial clients build robust risk management shields—enabling stable upstream pricing, consistent midstream margins, and predictable downstream costs.

    As acclaimed Chinese financial commentator Wu Xiaobo observed, “C&D Inc. has transformed its externally driven resource integration capabilities into internally driven service delivery—offering end-to-end support across information, logistics, and finance.”

    As Chinese enterprises embark on this new wave of globalization, it is companies like C&D Inc.—with deep operational experience and robust overseas supply chain capabilities—that must step forward to share their know-how and open up their resources. Only then can Chinese firms expand globally in a more professional, secure, and efficient manner.
    In closing, Li Zhi emphasized, “In this new era of global navigation, only by jointly building a shared risk-bearing mechanism can Chinese enterprises chart a steady course through turbulent global waters and achieve sustainable success.”

    “One struggles alone, but thrives together.” This is not only a recognition of C&D Inc.’s forward-thinking practices, but also a broader call for Chinese enterprises to embrace collective resilience in navigating global risks.

    Organization: Hangzhou Ba Jiu Ling Cultural Creative Co., Ltd

    Contact Person: Daisy Xing

    Website: www.890xsx.com

    Email: xingqian@890media.com

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by Hangzhou Ba Jiu Ling Cultural Creative Co., Ltd. The statements, views, and opinions expressed are solely those of the provider and do not necessarily reflect those of this media platform or its publisher. Any names or brands mentioned are used for identification purposes only and remain the property of their respective owners. No endorsement or guarantee is made regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. This material is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. Readers are encouraged to conduct independent research and consult qualified professionals. The publisher is not liable for any losses, damages, or legal issues arising from the use or publication of this content.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0e91b3b9-e047-44c6-949c-f709ac13fc92

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Pivoting Workforce

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    Pivoting Workforce

    With an active population of over 1 billion, the Asia-Pacific region is at the forefront of workforce transformation. As AI and emerging technologies reshape industries, the region has the opportunity to harness entrepreneurial talent, upskill its workers, boost productivity and advance regional mobility.

    How are leaders harnessing human capital and technological know-how to create a new working environment that balances innovation and worker well-being?

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BM0ALcJSz2o

    MIL OSI Video –

  • NASA targets June 25 for Axiom-4 launch after multiple delays

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    NASA has set June 25 as the new launch date for the long-delayed Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission to the International Space Station (ISS), the space agency announced on Tuesday.
     
    The launch is now scheduled for 2:31 a.m. EDT on Wednesday, June 25, and will take place from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. 
     
    The Ax-4 mission is a joint effort by NASA, Axiom Space, and SpaceX. Originally planned for May 29, the mission has faced several postponements due to technical issues, weather conditions, and ongoing safety evaluations. 
     
    It was successively deferred to June 8, 10, 11, 19, and 22. The latest delay was attributed to continuing assessments of repair work on the aft section of the Russian Zvezda service module aboard the ISS.
     
    The Ax-4 mission will be commanded by Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and now Director of Human Spaceflight at Axiom Space. 
     
    Joining Whitson on the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft are three other astronauts: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, an astronaut from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), who will serve as the mission’s pilot; Sławosz Uznanski-Wiśniewski, a Polish project astronaut from the European Space Agency (ESA); and Tibor Kapu from Hungary—both serving as mission specialists.
     
    Shukla will become the second Indian to travel to space after Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 mission.
     
    During their stay on the ISS, the crew will conduct a range of scientific experiments. Shukla will lead research focused on food and space nutrition, under a collaborative initiative involving ISRO, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), and NASA. The research aims to enhance understanding of sustainable life-support systems, a crucial aspect of future long-duration space travel.
     
    According to Axiom, this will be the first government-sponsored human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary since the 1980s.

  • NITI Aayog releases third edition of ‘Future Front’ series, emphasizes need for high-quality data in governance

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    NITI Aayog on Tuesday released the third edition of its quarterly insights series Future Front, titled “India’s Data Imperative: The Pivot Towards Quality.” The report focuses on the critical need to enhance data quality in order to strengthen digital governance, build public trust, and improve service delivery mechanisms across the country.

    The publication addresses the persistent challenges caused by poor data quality in public systems and introduces two key tools to help tackle the issue: a Data-Quality Scorecard designed to assess and track essential data attributes, and a Data-Quality Maturity Framework that enables self-assessment and the development of actionable roadmaps for data improvement.

    During the report’s launch, senior officials including B.V.R. Subrahmanyam, CEO of NITI Aayog; Dr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI); and Debjani Ghosh, Distinguished Fellow at NITI Aayog, emphasized the importance of establishing strong data foundations to support India’s evolving digital ecosystem.

    The event saw participation from senior officials, experts, and NITI Aayog staff, who agreed that quality data is vital for effective governance and a digitally empowered India. The report aims to guide policymakers and institutions in aligning data systems with global standards for better decision-making.

  • We are really confident: Josh Tongue insists draw not in England view ahead of thrilling final day

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Fast bowler Josh Tongue insisted England only have victory in their sights ahead of the final day of a thrilling first test against India, despite the imposing 371 target set by the touring side on Monday.

    Since coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes came together in 2022, England have been famed for their aggressive, win-at-all-costs approach, leading to plenty of dramatic highs, and some lows, during that time.

    England have only drawn one from 35 tests under the current regime, with one of their exhilarating run chases in that spell coming when they reached 378 against India in 2022 — the only time India have lost when defending test totals of more than 350.

    Resuming on 21-0 on day five at Headingley on Tuesday, England will be looking to achieve their second-highest successful test run chase against India.

    “Obviously we’re really confident,” Tongue, who took three wickets in four balls in the second innings to help rip through the India lower order and give England hope of victory, told reporters.

    “We have a very strong battling line-up, we play a positive brand of cricket, so a 371 target would be good to chase tomorrow.

    “No (draw has not been discussed). I think we just go for the win — that’s what the clear message in the changing rooms. I think it’s just been as positive as we can.”

    Victory would also mean England chase down the second highest fourth innings target at Headingley, more than the Ben Stokes-inspired heroics on the same ground against Australia in 2019.

    “Yeah, obviously I remember Stokes here against the Aussies. Like then, we have the batting line-up, I think we can chase down anything,” Tongue added.

    “It’s just soaking up pressure and then reapplying that the pressure to put back onto the bowlers as well. I don’t see why not we can’t chase it.”

    -Reuters

  • MIL-OSI China: Classic Chinese martial arts films to be remade with AI

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

    Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan and Jet Li are set to appear on the big screen in AI-generated form, after a new initiative to remake 100 classic Chinese martial arts films using artificial intelligence was announced on June 19 at the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF).

    Leaders, executives, partners and guests pose for a photo at the launch of an initiative to remake classic kung fu films using artificial intelligence during the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival, Shanghai, June 19, 2025. [Photo courtesy of SIFF Organizing Committee]

    For the first phase of the project, Shanghai Canxing Culture & Media Co. will license 10 classic Hong Kong kung fu films from its archive — including “A Better Tomorrow,” “Police Story,” “King of Beggars” and “Swordsman” — under the “All-time Kung Fu Legends — Grand AI Revival of 100 Selected Chinese Kung Fu Epics” banner.

    The company will collaborate with AI teams and animators to digitally reboot and adapt these martial arts classics.

    Zhang Pimin, chairman of the China Film Foundation, said Chinese kung fu films are Chinese cultural treasures that capture the “chivalric spirit” that emphasizes the protection of the weak.

    Zhang said the project will feature classics such as “Once Upon a Time in China” and “Fist of Fury” and marks an important step in blending traditional culture with modern innovation through AI.

    “From Bruce Lee breaking cultural barriers with martial arts to Jackie Chan conquering the world with kung fu comedies, Chinese kung fu films have always been a golden brand for sharing China’s stories and values,” he said, urging cross-sector collaboration to carry the legacy of these films into the digital era. “With this project, we can use technology to help these classics transcend time, keeping the heroic spirit alive in the digital age.”

    The project will not restore the original films, a China Film Foundation spokesman told China.org.cn. Instead, it will use AI and digital animation techniques to remake and reimagine classic titles.

    He Tao, deputy director of the Industry Research Institute at the Development Research Center of the National Radio and Television Administration, said the remakes are designed to deliver better visual effects and faster-paced storytelling to better align with contemporary audience preferences.

    “A Better Tomorrow: Cyber Frontier,” developed by Quantum Animation Studios, will be the first film produced under the initiative and is described as the world’s first fully AI-produced animated feature. The film reimagines John Woo’s classic using AI-driven character modeling, scene rendering and motion capture, blending traditional and cyberpunk elements for international audiences.

    AI has revolutionized animation production cycles and costs, said Zhang Qing, chief producer at Quantum Animation Studios.

    “Traditionally, an animated feature required thousands of staff and five to six years. For ‘A Better Tomorrow: Cyber Frontier,’ a 30-person team is producing a theatrical release,” he said.

    The AI films will also target Gen Z audiences worldwide through multilingual dubbing and partnerships with international streaming platforms, Zhang added. “A Better Tomorrow: Cyber Frontier,” set for theatrical release next year, is being shopped for global distribution, with its producers in talks with Netflix and Disney+.

    The project also aims to set technical standards for virtual production and develop new models for storytelling, organizers said.

    Shanghai Canxing Culture & Media Co. Chairman Tian Ming also announced that subsidiary Canxing Productions will invest 100 million yuan ($14 million) to co-fund selected projects, taking part in revenue sharing, joint copyright and derivative development rights.

    “Today we’re issuing an open invitation to AI production and animation companies worldwide,” Tian said. “With 100 Hong Kong film IPs available for licensing and extensive archival footage at your disposal.”

    However, as technology evolves, Tian stressed that human creativity must remain central. “AI is the brush, but creativity is the soul,” he said.

    “Algorithms can restore 4K resolution but cannot replicate an artist’s aesthetic insight,” said Tian. He added that while technology transcends borders, culture needs to connect with people on a deeper level and Eastern stories require contemporary interpretation with a global vision.

    “Remaking classics calls for creative renewal — honoring the originals while reinventing visual philosophy,” Tian said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Major general: Chinese people will never forget support of peace-loving nations during WWII

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

    The Chinese people will never forget the invaluable assistance and support extended by peace-loving and justice-upholding nations, peoples, and international organizations across the globe during the fight against fascism, Major General Wu Zeke said during a press conference unveiling the country’s plans for marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • Israel says Iran violates ceasefire announced by Trump, orders new strikes

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said on Tuesday he had ordered the military to strike Tehran in response to what he said were missiles fired by Iran in a violation of the ceasefire announced hours earlier by U.S. President Donald Trump.

    Iran denied violating the ceasefire. The armed forces general staff denied that there had been any launch of missiles towards Israel in recent hours, Iran’s Nour News reported.

    The developments raised early doubts about the ceasefire, intended to end 12 days of war.

    Katz said in a statement he had ordered the military to “continue high-intensity operations targeting regime assets and terror infrastructure in Tehran” in light of “Iran’s blatant violation of the ceasefire declared by the President of the United States.”

    Hours earlier, Trump had posted on Truth Social: “THE CEASEFIRE IS NOW IN EFFECT. PLEASE DO NOT VIOLATE IT!”

    Both Israel and Iran had confirmed the ceasefire after it was announced by Trump.

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel had achieved the goals it had set in launching its June 13 surprise attack on Iran, to destroy its nuclear programme and missile capabilities.

    “Israel thanks President Trump and the United States for their support in defence and their participation in eliminating the Iranian nuclear threat,” Netanyahu had said.

    Iran says its nuclear programme is solely for peaceful purposes and denies seeking to develop nuclear weapons.

    Iran’s top security body, the Supreme National Security Council, said its military had forced Israel to “unilaterally accept defeat and accept a ceasefire”.

    Iran’s forces would “keep their hands on the trigger” to respond to “any act of aggression by the enemy”, it said.

    Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi had earlier said that Iran would halt its retaliatory strikes provided that Israel stopped attacking as of 4:00 a.m. in Tehran.

    Global stock markets surged and oil prices tumbled on Tuesday after the announcement of the ceasefire, in the hope it heralded a resolution of the war just two days after the United States joined it by hitting Iranian nuclear sites with huge bunker-busting bombs.

    (Reuters)

  • Heavy rain likely in several parts of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Konkan region: IMD

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Rainfall activity is expected to intensify over large parts of India in the coming days, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting isolated heavy to very heavy showers over northwest India from June 25 onwards.

    Meanwhile, central, eastern, and northeastern India are likely to continue witnessing widespread rainfall through the week, with extremely heavy showers expected in parts of Konkan, central Maharashtra, and the Gujarat region on June 24.

    The southwest monsoon has further advanced into the remaining parts of the north Arabian Sea, more areas of West Uttar Pradesh, parts of Haryana, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu, and sections of Punjab.

    The IMD has said that conditions remain favourable for the monsoon to cover additional parts of Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and the rest of West Uttar Pradesh within the next 36 hours.

    Extremely heavy rainfall, exceeding 20 cm in 24 hours, is likely at isolated locations over Konkan, Madhya Maharashtra, and the Gujarat region on June 24. Very heavy rainfall is also expected across Konkan and Goa, Madhya Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Northeast India from June 24 to 30.

    Other regions forecast to receive significant rain include Uttarakhand (June 24–27), East and West Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Odisha, West Uttar Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim, Bihar, Jharkhand, and both interior and coastal Karnataka during various intervals of the week.

    In Delhi-NCR, residents can expect some relief from the heat as the weather is set to remain cloudy with intermittent rain between June 24 and 27.

    On June 24, the sky will be partly cloudy with very light to light rain or thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds up to 40 kmph. Maximum temperatures are expected to range between 35°C and 37°C, slightly below normal levels. Southeast winds will dominate, gradually picking up in the evening.

    From June 25 to 27, the capital is likely to experience generally cloudy skies with light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds. Maximum temperatures are expected to remain between 33°C and 35°C, and minimum temperatures between 26°C and 28°C, both slightly below the seasonal average. Winds will predominantly flow from the southeast and northeast directions, with speeds varying between 10 and 25 kmph.

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Pakistan: Recurrent drone strikes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa signal alarming disregard for civilian life

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to recurrent drone strikes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan that have killed at least 17 people, including five children, this year with the latest deadly strike on Friday, 20 June, Isabelle Lassée, Deputy Regional Director for South Asia at Amnesty International said:

    “Pakistani authorities have failed to take action to protect the lives and property of civilians in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa who continue to pay the price of an escalating number of drone strikes in the province. Last Friday’s drone strike, killing one child, is part of an alarming series of attacks which have escalated since March of this year.

    “Use of drones and quadcopters to conduct attacks resulting in unlawful killing of civilians violates international law. Reports that the strikes have hit homes and volleyball games indicate a reckless disregard for civilian life.

    “While Pakistani authorities have often denied responsibility for these attacks, they are obligated to conduct prompt, independent, transparent and effective investigations into these attacks and bring all those responsible to justice through fair trials. In cases where the Pakistani authorities are found to be directly responsible or where authorities failed to protect civilians from foreseeable threats, victims and families impacted in the strike must be provided with effective remedies, including compensation and other appropriate reparation.”

    Last Friday’s drone strike, killing one child, is part of an alarming series of attacks which have escalated since March of this year.

    Isabelle Lassée, Deputy Regional Director for South Asia at Amnesty International

    BACKGROUND:

    Multiple drone strikes have taken place in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in Pakistan, at least four of which have killed or injured civilians since March 2025.

    The latest drone strike on 20 June resulted in the death of one child and left five others injured in Dashka, Makeen Tehsil, South Waziristan district. Earlier this year, on 29 March, a strike in Katlang, Mardan district killed at least 11 people. The provincial government, in a press note, acknowledged civilian casualties. On 19 May a strike in Hurmuz, Mir Ali, North Waziristan district killed four children and injured five others. The Pakistani authorities denied responsibility, accusing the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) of carrying out the attack. On 28 May, a drone struck a volleyball match injuring 22 people, including seven children, in Wana, South Waziristan district. In September last year, a drone strike in Sararogha Tehsil, South Waziristan district killed one person and injured three others.

    Drone strikes have been long part of “counterterrorism” efforts in Pakistan.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Celebrating the 28th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and Voting together with the Ballot Box Family – Electoral Information Centre Open Day

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​To celebrate with members of the public the 28th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), the Registration and Electoral Office (REO) will hold the Electoral Information Centre (EIC) Open Day on July 1 (Tuesday).

    The Open Day will offer a wide range of programmes. Apart from talks on electoral information, a number of interactive games have been set up in the EIC, namely “Say ‘No’ to Corrupted Flies” on clean elections; “Electors’ Intersection” on voter registration; “Constructing an Election” on different stages of an election; and the game “One-day Counting Assistant” on a mock counting process, with a view to deepening public knowledge of the electoral system of the HKSAR through diverse activities. Visitors can also take photos with the Ballot Box Family mascots at the EIC and have a chance to win souvenirs.

         The EIC will be open for individual visits from 2pm to 6pm on the Open Day. The visits will be free of charge and on a first-come, first-served basis until the quota is full. Members of the public who are interested may call the REO’s hotline at 2891 1001 during office hours from 8.45am to 6pm to make an appointment from today (June 24) until June 30. For group visits, the REO has earlier issued invitations to non-governmental organisations and institutions, and the quota is full.

         The EIC is located at 7/F, Treasury Building, 3 Tonkin Street West, Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon. For details regarding the Open Day, please visit the EIC webpage (www.reo.gov.hk/en/service-desk/ecenter/2025openday.html) or call the hotline at 2891 1001.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Xiaobaihua Yue Opera Troupe of Shaoxing to present three classic Yue opera performances for Chinese Culture Festival in July (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Wu Fenghua, a two-time recipient of the China Theatre Plum Blossom Award, along with fellow Plum Blossom Award winners Wu Suying and Chen Fei, will lead outstanding performers from the Xiaobaihua Yue Opera Troupe of Shaoxing to Hong Kong in July. They will present three Yue opera classics “The Peacock Flies Southeast”, “The Aloeswood Fan” and “Mu Guiying Takes Command” for the Chinese Culture Festival (CCF) 2025, organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD). Blending literary grace and martial splendour, the performances are a must-see for opera enthusiasts. This programme is also part of the 13th Chinese Opera Festival (COF). 

         Yue opera, also known as Shaoxing opera, originated in Shengzhou in Shaoxing city of Zhejiang Province, where the ancient kingdom Yue was located. It is mainly characterised by the Banqiang style (accompanied by small drum and wood clappers) and various schools of vocal styles. Over the years, each school has nurtured many renowned Yue opera performing artists such as Fan Ruijuan (Fan school), Fu Quanxiang (Fu school) and Lu Ruiying (Lu school), whose artistic accomplishments are widely recognised. 

         Details of the performances are as follows:

    “The Peacock Flies Southeast”
    —————————————–
    Date and time: July 18 (Friday), 7.30pm

         “The Peacock Flies Southeast”, dubbed the “Chinese Romeo and Juliet”, recounts the poignant tragedy of Jiao Zhongqing and Liu Lanzhi, who are forced to be separated and ultimately choose to die for love. This masterpiece stands as one of the signature works of Yue opera legends Fan Ruijuan and Fu Quanxiang. This performance stars Wu Fenghua of the Fan school and Chen Fei of the Fu school, perfectly embodying the Fan school’s profound simplicity and the Fu school’s unique graceful vivacity. The classic aria “The Lonely Chamber after That Person is Gone” poetically blends ancient verse with operatic lyrics, accompanied by the interplay of gongs, drums and strings, expressing the lovers’ yearning and resignation. 

    “The Aloeswood Fan”
    —————————————–
    Date and time: July 19 (Saturday), 7.30pm 

         “The Aloeswood Fan” is a romantic and witty play, starring Wu Fenghua and Wu Suying of the Lu School. The story depicts a cross-class love affair between Xu Wenxiu, a talented scholar from a humble background, and Cai Lanying, a daughter of a minister’s family. One of the most beloved scenes, “At the Study”, features a delightfully comedic interaction between the quick-witted Cai and the simple, honest Xu. With its melodious and graceful vocal artistry, the play showcases the distinctive artistic appeal of Yue opera. 

    “Mu Guiying Takes Command”
    —————————————–
    Date and time: July 20 (Sunday), 7.30pm 

         “Mu Guiying Takes Command” stands as a signature work of the Xiaobaihua Yue Opera Troupe of Shaoxing that consists of both civil and martial elements. It has remained popular for over 30 years and is deeply beloved by opera fans. The production tells the household legend of Mu Guiying and Yang Zongbao’s martial contest for marriage and her heroic breaking of the Heavenly Gate Formation, fusing Yue opera’s lyrical elegance with martial grandeur. Chen Fei’s portrayal of Mu Guiying masterfully balances strength and grace, with passionate and soaring vocals that fully capture the heroine’s indomitable spirit. Wu Fenghua, playing the young general Yang Zongbao, demonstrates her solid martial arts skills through her performance in a changkao wusheng (military male in full armour) role. 

         The Xiaobaihua Yue Opera Troupe of Shaoxing was established in 1986. Its productions, including “Li Huiniang”, “How a Dead Cat was Substituted for a New-born Prince”, “Qu Yuan” and others, have received numerous awards such as the Repertory Award at the China Theatre Festival, the Gold Award at China Yue Opera Arts Festival and the China Xiqu Society Award. The troupe is active in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Shanghai and other regions, and has performed in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand and Singapore. 

         The three performances will be held at the Auditorium of Kwai Tsing Theatre. Lyrics and dialogue are with Chinese and English surtitles. Tickets priced at $220, $320, $420 and $520 are now available at URBTIX (www.urbtix.hk). For telephone bookings, please call 3166 1288. Group booking discounts and package booking discounts are available for purchasing selected CCF stage programmes, the “Chinese Opera Film Shows” of the COF 2025 and the “Legacy and Vision: Conversations with Chinese Cultural Masters” lecture. For programme enquiries and concessionary schemes, please call 2268 7325 or visit www.ccf.gov.hk/en/programme/the-peacock-flies-southeast-chinese-version-of-romeo-and-juliet.

         A meet-the-artists session entitled “Timeless Appeal: The Legacy and Evolution of Yue Opera” (in Putonghua and Cantonese) will be held at 7.30pm on July 17 (Thursday) at AC2, Level 4, Administration Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre. The speakers include Wu Fenghua, Wu Suying, Chen Fei and Yu Weiping, while Chinese opera researcher Chan Chun-miu will be the moderator. Admission is free and online registration is required (www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/CulturalService/Programme/en/chinese_opera/programs_1839.html#tab_13_0). If the quotas for online registration are full, those who are interested may wait at the venue’s entrance for a standby quota on the day of the session. Any unclaimed spots will be released 10 minutes after the session begins on a first-come, first-served basis.

         The CCF, presented by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and organised by the Chinese Culture Promotion Office under the LCSD, aims to promote Chinese culture and enhance the public’s national identity and cultural confidence. It also aims to attract top-notch artists and arts groups from the Mainland and other parts of the world for exchanges in Chinese arts and culture. The CCF 2025 is held from June to September. Through different performing arts programmes in various forms and related extension activities, including selected programmes of the COF, “Tan Dun WE-Festival”, film screenings, exhibitions, as well as community and school activities and more, the festival provides members of the public and visitors with more opportunities to enjoy distinctive programmes that showcase fine traditional Chinese culture, thereby facilitating patriotic education and contributing to the inheritance, transformation and development of traditional Chinese culture in Hong Kong. For more information about programmes and activities of the CCF 2025, please visit www.ccf.gov.hk.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –