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Category: Asia

  • India never accepted mediation, does not accept it, will never accept it: PM Modi to Trump

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a strong message to Washington, told US President Donald Trump that India rejects any form of mediation on issues concerning Pakistan, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said in a statement on Wednesday.

    Reiterating India’s long-standing position, Misri said, “Prime Minister Modi stressed that India has never accepted mediation, does not accept it, and will never accept it. There is complete political unanimity in India on this issue.”

    According to the foreign secretary, the two leaders spoke over the phone for 35 minutes — their first conversation since the Pahalgam terror attack and India’s response through Operation Sindoo

    The call took place after a scheduled in-person meeting between the two leaders on the sidelines of the G7 Summit was cancelled due to Trump’s early return to the US.

    “The phone conversation was held at the request of President Trump,” said Misri, adding that PM Modi used the opportunity to detail India’s measured military response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 tourists.

    “Prime Minister Modi said that on the night of May 6-7, India had targeted only terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. India’s actions were very measured, precise, and non-escalatory,” Misri said.

    “India had made it clear that it would respond to Pakistan’s ‘goli’ with ‘gola’ — a strong, proportionate military response,” he added.

    The foreign secretary also said that on the night of May 9, US Vice President Vance conveyed to PM Modi that Pakistan could launch a major retaliatory strike.

    “Prime Minister Modi told him clearly that if this happened, India would respond with even greater force. India’s strong counterattack on the night of May 9-10 May caused heavy damage to Pakistan’s military. Several of their airbases were rendered inoperable,” Misri said. He noted that, following India’s retaliation, Pakistan approached India with a ceasefire request.

    “Prime Minister Modi stated that the ceasefire was agreed to only at Pakistan’s request and that India does not want mediation. He made it clear that at no point during this episode were India-US trade talks or third-party mediation discussed,” Misri said.

    “The halt to military action was discussed directly between the two countries through existing military channels,” he added.

    President Trump, according to Misri, fully understood India’s position and expressed support for its fight against terrorism. The prime minister also informed Trump that India would consider any terror act emanating from Pakistan as an act of war, and that Operation Sindoor remains ongoing.

    Apart from regional security, the two leaders also discussed broader international developments, including the Iran-Israel conflict and the Russia-Ukraine war. Both leaders agreed on the need for direct dialogue between Moscow and Kyiv.

    “They also discussed the Indo-Pacific and the vital role of the QUAD. The PM invited President Trump to India for the next QUAD summit, and President Trump accepted the invitation,” Misri said.

    President Trump also invited PM Modi to visit Washington, but due to a pre-existing schedule, PM Modi was unable to accept the invitation. Both leaders agreed to meet in the near future, Misri said.

  • Trump calls for Iran’s ‘unconditional surrender’ as Israel-Iran air war enters sixth day

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Iran and Israel launched new missile strikes at each other on Wednesday as the air war between the two longtime enemies entered a sixth day despite a call from U.S. President Donald Trump for Tehran’s unconditional surrender.

    The Israeli military said two barrages of Iranian missiles were launched toward Israel in the first two hours of Wednesday morning. Explosions were heard over Tel Aviv.

    Israel told residents in a southwestern area of Tehran to evacuate so its air force could strike Iranian military installations. Iranian news websites said Israel was attacking a university linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in the east of the capital.

    Iranian news websites said Israel was also attacking a university linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in the country’s east, and the Khojir ballistic missile facility near Tehran, which was also targeted by Israeli airstrikes last October.

    The U.S. Office of the Director of National Intelligence says Iran is armed with the largest number of ballistic missiles in the Middle East. Iran has said its ballistic missiles are an important deterrent and retaliatory force against the U.S., Israel and other potential regional targets.

    Trump warned on social media on Tuesday that U.S. patience was wearing thin. While he said there was no intention to kill Iran’s leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei “for now,” his comments suggested a more aggressive stance toward Iran as he weighs whether to deepen U.S. involvement.

    “We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding,” he wrote on Truth Social. “We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now … Our patience is wearing thin.”

    Three minutes later Trump posted, “UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER!”

    Trump’s sometimes contradictory and cryptic messaging about the conflict between close U.S. ally Israel and longtime foe Iran has deepened the uncertainty surrounding the crisis. His public comments have ranged from military threats to diplomatic overtures, not uncommon for a president known for an often erratic approach to foreign policy.

    A source familiar with internal discussions said Trump and his team are considering a number of options, including joining Israel on strikes against Iranian nuclear sites.

    A White House official said Trump spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by phone on Tuesday.

    Trump also met for 90 minutes with his National Security Council on Tuesday afternoon to discuss the conflict, a White House official said. Details were not immediately available.

    The U.S. is deploying more fighter aircraft to the Middle East and extending the deployment of other warplanes, three U.S. officials told Reuters. The U.S. has so far only taken indirect actions in the current conflict with Iran, including helping to shoot down missiles fired toward Israel.

    A source with access to U.S. intelligence reports said Iran has moved some ballistic missile launchers, but it is difficult to determine if they were targeting U.S. forces or Israel.

    However, Britain’s leader Keir Starmer, speaking at the Group of Seven nations summit in Canada that Trump left early, said there was no indication the U.S. was about to enter the conflict.

    REGIONAL INFLUENCE WEAKENS

    Khamenei’s main military and security advisers have been killed by Israeli strikes, hollowing out his inner circle and raising the risk of strategic errors, according to five people familiar with his decision-making process.

    With Iranian leaders suffering their most dangerous security breach since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, the country’s cybersecurity command banned officials from using communications devices and mobile phones, Fars news agency reported.

    Israel launched a “massive cyber war” against Iran’s digital infrastructure, Iranian media reported.

    Ever since Iran-backed Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, and triggered the Gaza war, Khamenei’s regional influence has waned as Israel has pounded Iran’s proxies – from Hamas in Gaza to Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen and militias in Iraq. Iran’s close ally, Syria’s autocratic president Bashar al-Assad, has been ousted.

    Israel launched its air war, its largest ever on Iran, on Friday after saying it had concluded the Islamic Republic was on the verge of developing a nuclear weapon.

    Iran denies seeking nuclear weapons and has pointed to its right to nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, including enrichment, as a party to the international Non-Proliferation Treaty.

    Israel, which is not a party to the NPT, is the only country in the Middle East believed to have nuclear weapons. Israel does not deny or confirm that.

    Netanyahu has stressed that he will not back down until Iran’s nuclear development is disabled, while Trump says the Israeli assault could end if Iran agrees to strict curbs on enrichment.

    Before Israel’s attack began, the 35-nation board of governors of the U.N. nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency, declared Iran in breach of its non-proliferation obligations for the first time in almost 20 years.

    The IAEA said on Tuesday an Israeli strike directly hit the underground enrichment halls at the Natanz facility.

    Israel says it now has control of Iranian airspace and intends to escalate the campaign in coming days.

    But Israel will struggle to deal a knock-out blow to deeply buried nuclear sites like Fordow, which is dug beneath a mountain, without the U.S. joining the attack.

    Iranian officials have reported 224 deaths, mostly civilians, while Israel said 24 civilians had been killed. Residents of both countries have been evacuated or fled.

    Global oil markets are on high alert following strikes on sites including the world’s biggest gas field, South Pars, shared by Iran and Qatar.

    (Reuters)

  • Monterrey hold Inter Milan 1-1 at Club World Cup

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    UEFA Champions League finalists Inter Milan were held 1-1 by Mexican side Monterrey in their opening Group E game at the Club World Cup in Pasadena on Tuesday.

    Inter dominated possession at the outset but underdogs Monterrey struck first, grabbing the lead when 39-year-old defender Sergio Ramos leaped above two defenders to power home a header from a corner in the 25th minute.

    The Italians drew level three minutes before halftime when Kristjan Asllani’s floated free-kick into the box was played across the face of goal by Carlos Augusto to give Lautaro Martinez the easy tap-in.

    Nelson Deossa had a golden opportunity to win it for Monterrey in stoppage time but his shot ended up in the side netting on a hot day at the Rose Bowl, where plenty of empty seats were visible.

    “I think we could have scored a second goal, which we didn’t unfortunately,” said Inter’s Henrikh Mkhitaryan.

    “But this is football, we have to work hard, we have to do our best to win the next games because it’s a new competition and the teams are very motivated to get out of the group stage.

    “I think we have to be more aggressive in front of goal, we need to score more goals. Even today we had chances which we didn’t score, unfortunately.”

    Tuesday’s match, the first competitive meeting between the sides, saw both teams debuting new managers.

    Cristian Chivu took over from Simone Inzaghi at Inter Milan shortly after their crushing 5-0 Champions League final defeat by Paris St Germain, while Spaniard Domenec Torrent was brought in at Monterrey after their disappointing start to the season.

    Both teams are back in action on Saturday.

    Monterrey return to the Rose Bowl to face River Plate, who beat Urawa Reds 3-1 earlier in the day, while Inter take on the Japanese side in Seattle.

    (Reuters)

  • Jual Oram highlights Modi government’s commitment to tribal welfare

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram on Tuesday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the holistic development of tribal communities, stating that transparency, inclusivity, and efficiency are the core principles driving tribal welfare programs under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.

    Speaking at an event in New Delhi, the minister emphasized that the vision of a developed India cannot be achieved without empowering and uplifting tribal communities. “A community once politically marginalized is now playing a central role in the nation’s development journey,” he said.

    Oram credited the Modi government for ensuring effective implementation of inclusive policies over the past 11 years, which have significantly transformed the lives of tribal families. He noted that while the Ministry of Tribal Affairs was founded in 1999 under former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, it has achieved real expansion and impact under PM Modi.

    Highlighting achievements in education, Oram said over 700 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) have been established with a budget of ₹25,000 crore, ensuring access to quality education for lakhs of tribal children. He also spoke about the financial empowerment of tribal artisans and entrepreneurs, who are now finding opportunities in national and global markets.

    Praising the dignity and resilience of tribal communities, the minister remarked, “They do not believe in begging. They live with dignity and survive through hard work — and that is their true strength.”

    Oram concluded by hailing Prime Minister Modi as a true champion of tribal welfare and a key force behind the transformation in tribal policy and empowerment.

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ6: Safeguarding employment priority for local workers

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Chan Hak-kan and a reply by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, in the Legislative Council today (June 18):
     
    Question:
     
         The number of imported workers approved under the Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme (ESLS) has exceeded 50 000 to date. On the other hand, the latest unemployment rate announced by the Government is 3.4 per cent, the highest in 27 months. Regarding the safeguarding of the employment priority for local workers, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) as it has been reported that some applicant enterprises have set unreasonable criteria to exclude local applicants when conducting local recruitment under ESLS, of the number of complaints or reports involving non-compliant local recruitment procedures in the past three years and, among them, the number of substantiated cases and the relevant penalties; of the mechanism in place for proactively reviewing the reasonableness of such recruitment criteria;
     
    (2) as it has been reported that since ESLS requires enterprises to maintain a manning ratio of imported labour to local labour of no less than 1:2, some enterprises have employed local workers on a part-time basis or arranged for imported workers to take up positions inconsistent with those they applied for, whether the Government has looked into such situations; and
     
    (3) of the number of illegal workers arrested in the past three years, together with a breakdown by the trade in which they were engaged; whether it has assessed if the existing penal measures against employers of illegal workers and the intermediaries concerned have sufficient deterrent effect?

    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         To cope with the challenges brought by manpower shortage and on the premise of ensuring employment priority for local workers, the Government has enhanced the mechanism for importation of labour. Apart from launching sector-specific labour importation schemes for the construction sector, transport sector, and residential care homes for the elderly and residential care homes for persons with disabilities, the Labour Department (LD) has implemented the Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme (ESLS) since September 4, 2023 to suspend the general exclusion of the 26 job categories as well as unskilled or low-skilled posts from labour importation under the previous Supplementary Labour Scheme for two years. 
    (1) The LD has all along been stringently processing each application under ESLS. Applicant employers must undertake a four-week local recruitment exercise and accord priority to employing suitable local workers to fill the job vacancies. The LD will review and ascertain the employment terms, including the entry and academic qualification requirements, monthly salary and hours of work of all job vacancies posted by employers during the local recruitment. Employers taking on local job seekers through any recruitment channels during the local recruitment shall offer them employment terms no less favourable than those agreed by the LD.
     
         Upon completion of the local recruitment procedures, employers shall report the results to the LD and submit recruitment advertisements for verification. The LD will contact each of the local job seekers who is not employed by the employers, and assess whether the employers have sincerity in recruiting local workers. If there is evidence showing that an employer has violated the requirements of local recruitment, or refused to employ qualified local job seekers without reasonable reasons, the LD will impose administrative sanction of terminating the processing of the application submitted by the concerned employer for importation of labour, and refusing to process other applications submitted by the employer in the following year. Since the implementation of ESLS, the LD has not detected any employer who has violated the requirements of local recruitment or received relevant complaint from job seekers.
     
    (2) To safeguard the employment opportunities of local workers, ESLS requires relevant employers to meet the manning ratio requirement of full-time local employees to imported workers of 2:1 on a continuous basis. Full-time employees refer to local employees who are directly employed by an employer and work not less than 35 hours per week for operating the relevant business, excluding part-time staff, staff of sub-contractor(s) or self-employed person(s) providing services to the employer. At the same time, the employer shall not displace local workers in employ with imported workers. In the event of redundancy, imported workers should be retrenched first. To ensure that employers will not displace local workers in employ with imported workers, the LD has set up a dedicated hotline of 2150 6363. I appeal to employees who suspect that they have been dismissed owing to the employment of imported workers to call the hotline. The LD will follow up the complaints seriously. If substantiated, the LD will impose administrative sanction on the concerned employers, including withdrawal of approvals for importation of labour previously granted and refusal to process other applications submitted by the employers in the following two years. 
    (3) Engaging in illegal employment is a serious offence. Employers, illegal workers as well as aiders and abettors of illegal employment will be liable to prosecution in accordance with the Immigration Ordinance (IO). The IO stipulates different provisions targeting relevant offences committed by different groups of people. Visitors, illegal immigrants, overstayers, etc, are prohibited from taking up any employment, whether paid or unpaid, or establishing or joining any business. Aiders and abettors are liable to the same penalties. In addition, the Government amended the IO in 2021 to increase the penalty on employers of illegal workers, with the maximum penalty significantly increased from a fine of $350,000 and three years’ imprisonment to a fine of $500,000 and 10 years’ imprisonment with a view to reflecting the gravity of such offences. Besides, any person who takes up any employment, whether paid or unpaid, in contravention of a condition of stay shall be guilty of an offence. Upon conviction, he/she is liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and up to two years’ imprisonment. In addition, if local employment agencies or their persons in relation are convicted of breaches of the IO, the LD may consider revoking or refusing the renewal of license for the concerned employment agencies. If the concerned persons apply for operating other employment agencies in future, the LD may also consider rejecting the issue of license. 
     
         The Government is committed to combatting illegal employment, with a view to protecting the job opportunities for the local workforce. Relevant law enforcement agencies will, depending on operational needs, risk assessment and other considerations, flexibly arrange sufficient manpower to continuously conduct intelligence-led operations. When necessary, they will conduct joint operations to rigorously combat crimes related to illegal employment.
     
         According to the records of the Immigration Department, there were respectively 886, 1 304 and 1 268 illegal workers arrested each year during 2022 to 2024. 506 illegal workers were arrested during January to May 2025. The illegal workers arrested were mainly engaged in work related to the catering, construction, cleaning, or retail and wholesale industries.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Logistics ESG roadmap announced

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Transport & Logistics Bureau today unveiled its “Roadmap for ESG (environmental, social and governance) Development for Logistics Industry”, aimed at helping local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the sector achieve compliance with international ESG requirements.

    In its Action Plan on Modern Logistics Development, promulgated in October 2023, the Government committed to formulating a clear ESG roadmap for the logistics industry and to promoting the development of green and sustainable logistics.

    After commissioning a consultancy study, the bureau has worked with the Hong Kong Logistics Development Council and various stakeholders in the industry to devise a roadmap that takes account of international ESG standards and current market developments.

    The roadmap covers a three-year period, from 2025 to 2027, and adopts a three-stage approach for logistics SMEs to build up their ESG data collection and reporting capabilities and meet the most stringent prevailing international ESG disclosure requirements by the time the roadmap expires.

    The first stage involves raising logistics SMEs’ awareness of ESG principles and international ESG requirements. The second stage will involve equipping logistics SMEs with ESG data collection capabilities, and the third will aim to prepare them to carry out ESG reporting.

    The bureau highlighted that ESG has become an international trend, with the European Union having already made ESG disclosures along whole supply chains compulsory for enterprises from this year onwards, and the Mainland also formulating its own ESG disclosure standards, which are to be applicable to all companies, including SMEs, by 2030.

    For Hong Kong logistics SMEs, the bureau added, ESG adoption is no longer an option but an essential step for their survival and the maintenance of their global competitiveness.

    It said it hopes the roadmap will provide logistics SMEs with an easy-to-follow guide to embark on their ESG journey and help to enhance the competitiveness of Hong Kong’s logistics industry, thereby consolidating its position as an international logistics hub.

    The bureau outlined that it will co-operate with industry stakeholder to promote adoption of the roadmap, and will review and update the roadmap in a timely manner ahead of its expiry with reference to prevailing international ESG requirements.

    Meanwhile, the bureau also launched today a dedicated online ESG resource centre on the Hong Kong Logistics Development Council’s website. The resource centre is intended to serve as a one-stop portal for information related to ESG.

    Additionally, to assist logistics SMEs in beginning their ESG journey, the bureau will this year launch a set of ESG data collection tools to facilitate effective collection and recording of logistics ESG data.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • India-Croatia ties set to deepen as PM Modi heads to Zagreb

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday departed for Croatia after concluding his visit to Canada, where he participated in the 51st Group of Seven (G7) Summit in Kananaskis.
     
    This marks the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Croatia, a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship between the two countries.
     
    India and Croatia share a cordial and steadily growing relationship underpinned by shared values, democratic institutions, and a common commitment to international cooperation. Since Croatia’s independence in the early 1990s, India has consistently supported the European nation’s sovereignty and development, with diplomatic relations evolving into a multi-dimensional partnership encompassing political dialogue, trade, culture, education, and people-to-people exchanges.
     
    Croatia, which joined the European Union in 2013, has in recent years emerged as an important partner for India in the Central European region. Its accession to the Schengen Area and adoption of the Euro in January 2023 have further aligned the country with key European institutions, creating fresh avenues for collaboration.
     
    Trade and investment trajectory
     
    Economic engagement between the two countries, while modest in scale, has shown incremental progress. In 2024, India’s exports to Croatia stood at USD 251.6 million, comprising a diverse basket of goods including ceramic and pharmaceutical products, engineering items, chemicals, and agricultural commodities such as oilseeds and tobacco. Croatia’s exports to India totalled USD 54.4 million, largely in the form of machinery, wood and paper products, rubber, and refined vegetable oils, including soybean oil.
     
    Between 2001 and 2023, Indian investments in Croatia reached €44.5 million, whereas Croatian investments in India stood at approximately €5.5 million over the same period. 
     
    People-to-people connect
     
    An important pillar of the bilateral relationship is the growing Indian diaspora in Croatia. As of March 2025, over 17,000 Indian nationals were residing in the country, including a small number of permanent residents and Overseas Citizens of India. Bilateral mobility has been aided by reciprocal arrangements such as visa-free travel for diplomatic and official passport holders for up to 30 days, facilitating greater high-level exchanges and official visits.
     
    Educational and cultural cooperation has also grown in recent years, with increased academic mobility, interest in Indian languages and traditions among Croatians, and rising Indian student enrolments in Croatian institutions.
     
    PM Modi’s visit is expected to lend new momentum to bilateral ties and provide an opportunity for both sides to chart a course for deeper engagement across political, economic, and cultural domains. 

  • Israeli tanks kill 59 people in Gaza crowd trying to get food aid, medics say

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Israeli tanks fired into a crowd trying to get aid from trucks in Gaza on Tuesday, killing at least 59 people, according to medics, in one of the bloodiest incidents yet in mounting violence as desperate residents struggle for food.

    Video shared on social media showed around a dozen mangled bodies lying in a street in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip. The Israeli military, at war with Hamas-led Palestinian militants in Gaza since October 2023, acknowledged firing in the area and said it was looking into the incident.

    Witnesses interviewed by Reuters said Israeli tanks had launched at least two shells at a crowd of thousands who had gathered on the main eastern road through Khan Younis in the hope of obtaining food from aid trucks that use the route.

    “All of a sudden, they let us move forward and made everyone gather, and then shells started falling, tank shells,” said Alaa, an eyewitness, interviewed by Reuters at Nasser Hospital, where wounded victims lay sprawled on the floor and in corridors due to the lack of space.

    “No one is looking at these people with mercy. The people are dying, they are being torn apart, to get food for their children. Look at these people, all these people are torn to get flour to feed their children.”

    Palestinian medics said at least 59 people were killed and 221 wounded in the incident, at least 20 of them in critical condition. Casualties were being rushed into the hospital in civilian cars, rickshaws and donkey carts. It was the worst death toll in a single day since aid resumed in Gaza in May.

    In a statement, the Israel Defense Forces said: “Earlier today, a gathering was identified adjacent to an aid distribution truck that got stuck in the area of Khan Younis, and in proximity to IDF troops operating in the area.

    “The IDF is aware of reports regarding a number of injured individuals from IDF fire following the crowd’s approach. The details of the incident are under review. The IDF regrets any harm to uninvolved individuals and operates to minimise harm as much as possible to them while maintaining the safety of our troops.”

    Medics said at least 14 other people were also killed by Israeli gunfire and airstrikes elsewhere in the densely populated enclave, taking Tuesday’s overall death toll to at least 73.

    The health ministry said 397 Palestinians, among those trying to get food aid, had been killed and more than 3,000 were wounded since late May.

    The incident was the latest in nearly daily large-scale killings of Palestinians seeking aid in the three weeks since Israel partially lifted a total blockade on the territory it had imposed for nearly three months.

    Israel has been channelling much of the aid it is now allowing into Gaza through a new U.S.- and Israeli-backed group, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, which operates a handful of distribution sites in areas guarded by Israeli forces.

    “The incident in question did not occur at a GHF site, but rather near a United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) location,” the foundation said of the incident on Tuesday.

    The United Nations rejects the GHF delivery system as inadequate, dangerous and a violation of humanitarian impartiality rules. Israel says it is needed to prevent Hamas fighters from diverting aid, which Hamas denies.

    Gaza authorities say hundreds of Palestinians have been killed trying to reach GHF sites.

    The GHF said in a press release late on Monday that it had distributed more than three million meals at its four distribution sites without incident.

    The Gaza war was triggered in October 2023, when Palestinian Hamas militants attacked Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages, according to Israeli allies. Israel’s subsequent military assault on Gaza has killed nearly 55,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s health ministry, while displacing nearly the entire population of 2.3 million and causing a hunger crisis.

    Since last week, Gaza Palestinians have kept an eye on the new air war between Israel and Iran, which has long been a major supporter of Hamas.

    Gaza residents have circulated images of buildings in Israel wrecked by Iranian missiles, some saying they are happy to see Israelis experiencing a measure of the fear of airstrikes that they have endured for 20 months.

    (Reuters)

  • Many flights to Indonesia’s Bali cancelled after volcano eruption

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Several flights to the Indonesian resort island of Bali were cancelled or delayed and the airport in Maumere in East Nusa Tenggara province was closed due to the eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, officials said on Wednesday.

    Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, which is in East Nusa Tenggara province, erupted on Tuesday, spewing ash 11 km (6.84 miles) high, forcing the country’s volcanology agency to raise the alert level to the highest.

    It erupted again on Wednesday morning, belching a 1 km (0.62 mile) high ash cloud, the agency said in a statement.

    Several international flights from India, Singapore and Australia to Bali were cancelled due to the eruption, the Bali international airport website showed.

    Singapore AirlinesSIAL.SI cancelled four flights between Bali’s Denpasar airport and Singapore, and its budget subsidiary Scoot cancelled flights to Bali and the neighbouring island Lombok, the airlines said.

    Qantas’ QAN.AX low-cost carrier JetStar cancelled several morning flights to Bali from Australia and expects afternoon flights to be delayed.

    “Forecasts show the ash cloud is expected to clear by later tonight,” JetStar said in a midday travel bulletin.

    The government closed the Fransiskus Xaverius Seda airport in Maumere from Wednesday until Thursday “to ensure the safety of the passengers,” said the airport operator AirNav in its Instagram post.

    The eruption also forced local authorities to evacuate dozens of residents living in two villages near the volcano, Avi Hallan, an official at the local disaster mitigation agency told Reuters.

    “Streets in the two villages were filled with thick ash, gravel, and sand,” she said, adding no casualties were reported.

    The volcano last erupted in May.

    Indonesia sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area of high seismic activity atop multiple tectonic plates.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Animal Welfare – WORLD’S BIGGEST INVESTIGATION INTO EGG FACTORY FARMING. NEW ZEALAND CAGES SCRUTINISED

    Source: Animals Aotearoa

    In the largest global investigation ever, The Open Wing Alliance reveals never-before-seen footage of systemic animal abuse and public health risks in cage egg factory farming. Alongside footage from 36 other countries, the exposé includes footage from a colony cage factory farm in New Zealand.

    New Zealand – June 17 2025 –  “The sound of thousands of trapped chickens, the industrial fans cranking and the stench of waste is beyond words”, says a volunteer investigator from Grassroots Campaigns NZ. “It’s hell inside.”

    This is the description animal welfare investigators gave about what they captured at an Auckland colony cage factory farm. Their footage was given to the Open Wing Alliance, a global coalition of nearly 100 organisations established by The Humane League, in collaboration with We Animals and Reporters for Animals International. Together with Animals Aotearoa, the united group has just released the largest ever investigation into industrialised egg farms in 37 countries. In never-before-seen footage, including from New Zealand, supported by an open letter backed by 100 celebrities.

    “The shocking footage exposes widespread abuse of egg-laying hens trapped in filthy, overcrowded cages, with evidence of injured birds, rotting carcasses, disease-ridden conditions, and more. This investigation comes as bird flu sweeps across every continent, jumping from farmed birds to wild animals and even humans”, says Jennifer Dutton, Corporate Relations Specialist at Animals Aotearoa.

    Footage from 37 countries, including:

    Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, United States, Vietnam and Zimbabwe.

    Key findings from the global exposé include:

    Hens confined in battery and enriched/colony cages, giving each chicken only the space of an iPad, or less, to live their entire life;

    Automated systems leave dead bird carcasses trapped in cages with living hens;

    Live hens abandoned in manure and waste pits, and eggs found in manure before sent to shelves;

    Birds unable to stand upright or spread their wings;

    Unsanitary conditions that promote disease spread, like avian influenza.

    This massive coordinated worldwide campaign is focused on spotlighting multinational brands dragging their heels on fulfilling corporate policy to transition away from cage eggs in their supply chains. The vast majority of food corporations around the world publicly committed, a decade ago, to remove cages from their egg supply chains, with global companies like The Hershey Company, Hormel Foods, Famous Brands, and Barilla already fully cage-free. However, food companies like Walmart, Zensho Holdings and Inspire Brands (parent company of Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins) continue to profit from sourcing eggs from hens raised in outdated, cruel cages. In New Zealand, hospitality giant Best Western Hotel chain was recently targeted by protestors highlighting the multinational’s lack of transparent reporting on its global cage-free progress, supported by a petition.

    Since 2023, when battery cages were outlawed in Aotearoa, there has been a disinformation campaign by the factory farm lobby to mislead caring New Zealanders about the continued domestic production of cage eggs. While battery cages are no longer in use, colony cages are. Eggs sold at retail level from these colony cage systems don’t contain the word ‘cage’ anywhere on the packaging. Following a number of complaints, the Commerce Commission is currently conducting a compliance project to assess whether colony eggs are a breach of the Fair Trading Act.

    In addition to cage eggs being sold under misleading labelling, the import of liquid eggs from battery cages is a significant problem. Over 80% of New Zealand’s liquid eggs, used largely in food manufacture, are imported from China and Australia where egg-laying hens are kept in battery cages. Produced using methods illegal here, they are added into Kiwi foods and quietly sold to the caring public who are unaware.

    Consumers around the world are increasingly demanding transparency and ethical treatment of animals in food production, and they won’t stand for further risks to our global public health. Over 100 celebrity figures signed an open letter urging food corporations to end the use of cages in their global supply chains. This investigation s

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: GAM Holding AG appoints Albert Saporta as Group Chief Executive Officer and Tim Rainsford as Group Chief Distribution Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Zurich: 18 June 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 Listing Rules:

    GAM Holding AG appoints Albert Saporta as Group Chief Executive Officer and Tim Rainsford as Group Chief Distribution Officer

    GAM Holding AG (SWX: GAM) today announces senior leadership changes as the Group moves into the next phase of sustainable growth. Albert Saporta has been appointed Group Chief Executive Officer (Group CEO) effective from 1 July 2025, succeeding Elmar Zumbuehl who will remain with GAM until 31 December 2025 to support the transition. Additionally, Tim Rainsford will return to GAM to lead its distribution efforts as Group Chief Distribution Officer on 1 October 2025.

    These leadership changes reflect that GAM has successfully transformed and is now well positioned for growth. Under Elmar Zumbuehl’s leadership, GAM has undergone a comprehensive repositioning over the last 21 months; divesting non-core businesses, and rebuilding a lean, scalable platform designed to attract and empower top investment talent and better connect them to clients worldwide through a strengthened global distribution and client servicing network.

    Albert Saporta has over 40 years of experience in the investment management industry and served as Global Head of Investments & Products at GAM since October 2023. He will take over as Group CEO with a clear focus on accelerating growth through building on our existing and new product offerings and external opportunities. His passion for innovative investment strategies, drive for positive client outcomes, and energy is key for GAM’s next phase of growth.  

    Drawing on GAM’s pioneering heritage, combining internal and external investment talent, Albert Saporta has been instrumental in strengthening GAM’s investment team line-up and entering into multiple new partnerships with best-in-class investment managers. GAM is strongly positioned to provide clients with access to differentiated investment strategies across asset classes.

    Tim Rainsford will return to GAM as Group Chief Distribution Officer and a Group Management Board member. He brings extensive experience in leading global distribution functions focused on growth and delivering for clients. Tim Rainsford was CEO of Generali Investments Partners, and latterly, Chief Product and Distribution Officer for Generali Asset Management. 

    Rossen Djounov, Global Head of Client Solutions, will remain a senior member of the distribution leadership team, reporting to Tim, with a focus on driving growth initiatives and deepening strategic client relationships.

    Chairman of the Board, Antoine Spillmann, said: “On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to express our deepest gratitude to Elmar for his dedicated service and the significant achievements he has accomplished during his many years at GAM. His leadership has been pivotal in steering the company through transformative changes and setting a solid foundation for future sustainable growth. The Board is looking forward to working with Albert and Tim as GAM enters its next phase as a highly agile and scalable platform with a renewed focus on growth, innovation, and client outcomes.

    Albert Saporta said: “I am honoured to take on the role of GAM’s Group CEO. We have transformed GAM, and it is now well positioned with unique investment talent to deliver differentiated strategies to our clients. I am excited to be leading GAM into this next phase of sustainable growth.”

    Elmar Zumbuehl commented: “I am proud of what we’ve accomplished over the last 21 months, and I want to thank the Board and our anchor shareholder NJJ Holding for their support during this transformational phase. I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to every member of the firm for their unwavering commitment and efforts in successfully transforming GAM.”

    Tim Rainsford commented: “I’m thrilled to be returning to GAM with the firm’s focus on innovative strategies and commitment to client outcomes. I look forward to working closely with Albert and the broader team to drive growth and strengthen our global presence.”

    Biographies

    Albert Saporta:

    Albert has 40 years’ experience in financial markets, with over 30 years in the hedge fund industry. Albert started his career at Paribas in Paris, where he managed the Japan/Asia mutual funds from 1984-85. He joined Merrill Lynch in London as Vice President of Japanese equity sales from 1985-88. In 1988, he joined UBS Securities in London where he headed quantitative research and hedge fund sales for Japanese equities. In 1991, he joined IFM, a hedge fund owned by Jacob Rothschild’s St James’s Place and AIG, where he managed relative value global equity arbitrage strategies. In 1995, he left to set up Geneva-based AIM&R, a hedge fund advisory and research firm, managing the SOG and SOGAsia funds. In March 2006, Albert sold AIM&R ‘s research and hedge fund businesses to ABN Amro Bank (London). As part of the transaction, he set-up the Special Opportunities Group (SOG) at ABN, managing a balance sheet of >USD1bn in global arbitrage strategies and special situations. AIM&R was relaunched in 2011 as a research and trading advisory firm, advising global hedge funds, pension funds, prop trading firms and family offices.

    Albert has a master’s in International Affairs from Columbia University (1984), an MBA (1983) and BSc in economics (1982) from New York University, and a Math/Physics degree from the University of Nice (1980). He is fluent in French, English, Spanish and Portuguese. Albert holds French, Israeli and Spanish citizenships.

    Tim Rainsford:

    Tim Rainsford joins GAM Investments from Generali Investments Partners, where since September 2020 he was the Global Head of Product and Distribution. In this capacity, he led the global team of sales professionals based in Europe, focusing on defining the commercial development plans and strategies aimed at strengthening Generali Investments’ positioning in key markets and expanding its international footprint. 

    He was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Generali Investments Partners S.p.A. Società di gestione del risparmio (GIP) in April 2021, a key entity within the Generali Group’s Asset & Wealth Management business unit. In this role, he was responsible for steering the regulated entity and focusing on the investment management, product development and global sales efforts of the business unit, maximising the Group’s multi-boutique approach.  

    Before his tenure at Generali, he held significant positions in other major financial institutions. He served as Group Head of Distribution and Marketing at GAM Investments, where he was responsible for the company’s marketing and sales strategic direction. Earlier in his career, he spent thirteen years at Man Investments Ltd, holding various senior roles including Senior Managing Director – Head of European Sales, and Global Co-Head of Sales and Marketing.  

    For further information please contact:

    Colin Bennett | GAM Media Relations
    T +44 (0) 20 73 938 544 
    colin.bennett@gam.com

    Visit us: www.gam.com
    Follow us: X and LinkedIn 

    About GAM

    GAM Investments is a highly scalable global investment platform with strong global distribution capabilities focusing on three core areas, Specialist Active Investing, Alternative Investing and Wealth Management, that is listed in Switzerland. It delivers distinctive and differentiated investment solutions across its Investment and Wealth Management businesses. Its purpose is to protect and enhance clients’ financial future. It attracts and empowers brightest minds to provide investment leadership, innovation and a positive impact on society and the environment. Total assets under management were CHF 16.3 billion as of 31 December 2024. GAM Investments has global distribution with offices in 14 countries and is geographically diverse with clients in almost every continent. Headquartered in Zurich, GAM Investments was founded in 1983, and its registered office is at Hardstrasse 201 Zurich, 8005 Switzerland. For more information about GAM Investments, please visit www.gam.com. 

    Other Important Information

    This release contains or may contain statements that constitute forward-looking statements. Words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “estimate”, “aim”, “project”, “forecast”, “risk”, “likely”, “intend”, “outlook”, “should”, “could”, “would”, “may”, “might”, “will”, “continue”, “plan”, “probability”, “indicative”, “seek”, “target”, “plan” and other similar expressions are intended to or may identify forward-looking statements.

    Any such statements in this release speak only as of the date hereof and are based on assumptions and contingencies subject to change without notice, as are statements about market and industry trends, projections, guidance, and estimates. Any forward-looking statements in this release are not indications, guarantees, assurances or predictions of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the person making such statements, its affiliates and its and their directors, officers, employees, agents and advisors and may involve significant elements of subjective judgement and assumptions as to future events which may or may not be correct and may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any such statements. You are strongly cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and no person accepts or assumes any liability in connection therewith.

    This release is not a financial product or investment advice, a recommendation to acquire, exchange or dispose of securities or accounting, legal or tax advice. It has been prepared without taking into account the objectives, legal, financial or tax situation and needs of individuals. Before making an investment decision, individuals should consider the appropriateness of the information having regard to their own objectives, legal, financial and tax situation and needs and seek legal, tax and other advice as appropriate for their individual needs and jurisdiction.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: GAM Holding AG appoints Albert Saporta as Group Chief Executive Officer and Tim Rainsford as Group Chief Distribution Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Zurich: 18 June 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 Listing Rules:

    GAM Holding AG appoints Albert Saporta as Group Chief Executive Officer and Tim Rainsford as Group Chief Distribution Officer

    GAM Holding AG (SWX: GAM) today announces senior leadership changes as the Group moves into the next phase of sustainable growth. Albert Saporta has been appointed Group Chief Executive Officer (Group CEO) effective from 1 July 2025, succeeding Elmar Zumbuehl who will remain with GAM until 31 December 2025 to support the transition. Additionally, Tim Rainsford will return to GAM to lead its distribution efforts as Group Chief Distribution Officer on 1 October 2025.

    These leadership changes reflect that GAM has successfully transformed and is now well positioned for growth. Under Elmar Zumbuehl’s leadership, GAM has undergone a comprehensive repositioning over the last 21 months; divesting non-core businesses, and rebuilding a lean, scalable platform designed to attract and empower top investment talent and better connect them to clients worldwide through a strengthened global distribution and client servicing network.

    Albert Saporta has over 40 years of experience in the investment management industry and served as Global Head of Investments & Products at GAM since October 2023. He will take over as Group CEO with a clear focus on accelerating growth through building on our existing and new product offerings and external opportunities. His passion for innovative investment strategies, drive for positive client outcomes, and energy is key for GAM’s next phase of growth.  

    Drawing on GAM’s pioneering heritage, combining internal and external investment talent, Albert Saporta has been instrumental in strengthening GAM’s investment team line-up and entering into multiple new partnerships with best-in-class investment managers. GAM is strongly positioned to provide clients with access to differentiated investment strategies across asset classes.

    Tim Rainsford will return to GAM as Group Chief Distribution Officer and a Group Management Board member. He brings extensive experience in leading global distribution functions focused on growth and delivering for clients. Tim Rainsford was CEO of Generali Investments Partners, and latterly, Chief Product and Distribution Officer for Generali Asset Management. 

    Rossen Djounov, Global Head of Client Solutions, will remain a senior member of the distribution leadership team, reporting to Tim, with a focus on driving growth initiatives and deepening strategic client relationships.

    Chairman of the Board, Antoine Spillmann, said: “On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to express our deepest gratitude to Elmar for his dedicated service and the significant achievements he has accomplished during his many years at GAM. His leadership has been pivotal in steering the company through transformative changes and setting a solid foundation for future sustainable growth. The Board is looking forward to working with Albert and Tim as GAM enters its next phase as a highly agile and scalable platform with a renewed focus on growth, innovation, and client outcomes.

    Albert Saporta said: “I am honoured to take on the role of GAM’s Group CEO. We have transformed GAM, and it is now well positioned with unique investment talent to deliver differentiated strategies to our clients. I am excited to be leading GAM into this next phase of sustainable growth.”

    Elmar Zumbuehl commented: “I am proud of what we’ve accomplished over the last 21 months, and I want to thank the Board and our anchor shareholder NJJ Holding for their support during this transformational phase. I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to every member of the firm for their unwavering commitment and efforts in successfully transforming GAM.”

    Tim Rainsford commented: “I’m thrilled to be returning to GAM with the firm’s focus on innovative strategies and commitment to client outcomes. I look forward to working closely with Albert and the broader team to drive growth and strengthen our global presence.”

    Biographies

    Albert Saporta:

    Albert has 40 years’ experience in financial markets, with over 30 years in the hedge fund industry. Albert started his career at Paribas in Paris, where he managed the Japan/Asia mutual funds from 1984-85. He joined Merrill Lynch in London as Vice President of Japanese equity sales from 1985-88. In 1988, he joined UBS Securities in London where he headed quantitative research and hedge fund sales for Japanese equities. In 1991, he joined IFM, a hedge fund owned by Jacob Rothschild’s St James’s Place and AIG, where he managed relative value global equity arbitrage strategies. In 1995, he left to set up Geneva-based AIM&R, a hedge fund advisory and research firm, managing the SOG and SOGAsia funds. In March 2006, Albert sold AIM&R ‘s research and hedge fund businesses to ABN Amro Bank (London). As part of the transaction, he set-up the Special Opportunities Group (SOG) at ABN, managing a balance sheet of >USD1bn in global arbitrage strategies and special situations. AIM&R was relaunched in 2011 as a research and trading advisory firm, advising global hedge funds, pension funds, prop trading firms and family offices.

    Albert has a master’s in International Affairs from Columbia University (1984), an MBA (1983) and BSc in economics (1982) from New York University, and a Math/Physics degree from the University of Nice (1980). He is fluent in French, English, Spanish and Portuguese. Albert holds French, Israeli and Spanish citizenships.

    Tim Rainsford:

    Tim Rainsford joins GAM Investments from Generali Investments Partners, where since September 2020 he was the Global Head of Product and Distribution. In this capacity, he led the global team of sales professionals based in Europe, focusing on defining the commercial development plans and strategies aimed at strengthening Generali Investments’ positioning in key markets and expanding its international footprint. 

    He was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Generali Investments Partners S.p.A. Società di gestione del risparmio (GIP) in April 2021, a key entity within the Generali Group’s Asset & Wealth Management business unit. In this role, he was responsible for steering the regulated entity and focusing on the investment management, product development and global sales efforts of the business unit, maximising the Group’s multi-boutique approach.  

    Before his tenure at Generali, he held significant positions in other major financial institutions. He served as Group Head of Distribution and Marketing at GAM Investments, where he was responsible for the company’s marketing and sales strategic direction. Earlier in his career, he spent thirteen years at Man Investments Ltd, holding various senior roles including Senior Managing Director – Head of European Sales, and Global Co-Head of Sales and Marketing.  

    For further information please contact:

    Colin Bennett | GAM Media Relations
    T +44 (0) 20 73 938 544 
    colin.bennett@gam.com

    Visit us: www.gam.com
    Follow us: X and LinkedIn 

    About GAM

    GAM Investments is a highly scalable global investment platform with strong global distribution capabilities focusing on three core areas, Specialist Active Investing, Alternative Investing and Wealth Management, that is listed in Switzerland. It delivers distinctive and differentiated investment solutions across its Investment and Wealth Management businesses. Its purpose is to protect and enhance clients’ financial future. It attracts and empowers brightest minds to provide investment leadership, innovation and a positive impact on society and the environment. Total assets under management were CHF 16.3 billion as of 31 December 2024. GAM Investments has global distribution with offices in 14 countries and is geographically diverse with clients in almost every continent. Headquartered in Zurich, GAM Investments was founded in 1983, and its registered office is at Hardstrasse 201 Zurich, 8005 Switzerland. For more information about GAM Investments, please visit www.gam.com. 

    Other Important Information

    This release contains or may contain statements that constitute forward-looking statements. Words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “estimate”, “aim”, “project”, “forecast”, “risk”, “likely”, “intend”, “outlook”, “should”, “could”, “would”, “may”, “might”, “will”, “continue”, “plan”, “probability”, “indicative”, “seek”, “target”, “plan” and other similar expressions are intended to or may identify forward-looking statements.

    Any such statements in this release speak only as of the date hereof and are based on assumptions and contingencies subject to change without notice, as are statements about market and industry trends, projections, guidance, and estimates. Any forward-looking statements in this release are not indications, guarantees, assurances or predictions of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the person making such statements, its affiliates and its and their directors, officers, employees, agents and advisors and may involve significant elements of subjective judgement and assumptions as to future events which may or may not be correct and may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any such statements. You are strongly cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and no person accepts or assumes any liability in connection therewith.

    This release is not a financial product or investment advice, a recommendation to acquire, exchange or dispose of securities or accounting, legal or tax advice. It has been prepared without taking into account the objectives, legal, financial or tax situation and needs of individuals. Before making an investment decision, individuals should consider the appropriateness of the information having regard to their own objectives, legal, financial and tax situation and needs and seek legal, tax and other advice as appropriate for their individual needs and jurisdiction.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN opens the 9th Forum of Entities Associated with ASEAN in Jakarta

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today delivered the opening statement at the 9th Forum of Entities Associated with ASEAN, held at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat, in Jakarta. In his statement, SG Dr. Kao underscored the critical role of ASEAN Centres and Entities in advancing the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, particularly amidst increasing global volatility and geopolitical challenges. In the spirit of partnership and shared responsibility, he advocated for deeper collaboration across all the three ASEAN pillars and connectivity to promote peace, stability, sustainability, and regional resilience. SG Dr. Kao also welcomed insights from prominent and high-level speakers and encouraged all participants to explore joint initiatives in support of the ASEAN Chairmanship theme, “Inclusivity and Sustainability.”
     
    Download the opening statement here.
     

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN opens the 9th Forum of Entities Associated with ASEAN in Jakarta appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN receives the Executive Director of the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today met with the Executive Director of ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC), Buth Rothna, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. They exchanged views on ARMAC’s ongoing initiatives in addressing the humanitarian consequences of explosive remnants of war (ERW) in the region, as well as ways forward for ARMAC to further contribute to ASEAN Community-building efforts.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN receives the Executive Director of the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • DGCA reviews operations of Air India and Air India Express

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Tuesday held a high-level review meeting with senior officials of Air India and Air India Express to assess the operational health and regulatory compliance of both airlines, which collectively operate over 1,000 flights daily.

    The review focused on maintenance-related delays, recent airspace restrictions, and passenger facilitation practices. DGCA flagged concerns over delays linked to engineering and ground handling issues at Air India, urging the airline to improve internal coordination and ensure the availability of spare parts.

    The impact of airspace closures, particularly over Iran, was also discussed. Airlines were advised to communicate proactively with passengers and adopt alternate routing strategies to minimize disruption.

    Officials emphasized adherence to Civil Aviation Requirements regarding timely passenger information in the event of delays or cancellations. DGCA underscored the importance of real-time communication and facilitation through all available channels.

    Regarding safety, the regulator reported that recent surveillance of Air India’s Boeing 787 fleet showed no major safety issues, with maintenance practices found to be compliant. Out of the airline’s 33 B787-8/9 aircraft, 24 have completed an “Enhanced Safety Inspection” as of June 17, while the remaining aircraft are either undergoing maintenance or scheduled for checks.

    DGCA also called for a more robust and real-time defect reporting system to enhance operational coordination and reduce disruptions.

    Reaffirming its commitment to safety and reliability, DGCA stated it will continue to closely monitor the performance of all scheduled airlines.

  • KVIC disburses ₹300 crore subsidy to 11,480 service sector beneficiaries under PMEGP

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) on Tuesday disbursed over ₹300 crore as margin money subsidy to 11,480 service sector beneficiaries across the country under the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP). The subsidy was released virtually from KVIC’s Rajghat office in New Delhi by Chairman Manoj Kumar.

    The disbursal corresponds to a total loan sanction of ₹906 crore and was conducted in the presence of KVIC CEO Roop Rashi and other senior officials. All six zones of the country actively participated in the virtual event.

    In his address, Manoj Kumar highlighted that PMEGP has become a vital pillar of the government’s vision for a self-reliant and developed India. He emphasized that the scheme has transformed into a social movement by empowering lakhs of youth, women, and artisans with self-employment opportunities.

    Zone-wise, the South Zone received the highest subsidy of ₹116 crore for 4,565 projects, followed by the Central Zone with ₹72 crore for 2,403 projects. The North Zone saw a subsidy of ₹61 crore for 2,713 projects, while the East Zone received ₹22 crore for 996 projects. The North East Region got ₹2 crore for 81 projects, and the West Zone was allocated ₹26 crore for 722 projects.

    Since its inception, PMEGP has helped establish over 10.18 lakh micro enterprises with loans amounting to ₹73,348 crore and margin money subsidies of ₹27,166 crore. The program has generated employment for over 90 lakh individuals, making it one of India’s most impactful self-employment initiatives.

  • Indian stock market trades in green amid rising geopolitical tensions

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The domestic benchmark indices opened lower on Wednesday amid rising geopolitical tensions but turned positive in early trade, led by buying in the auto, IT, and PSU bank sectors.

    At around 9:32 a.m., the Sensex was trading 160.49 points, or 0.20 per cent, higher at 81,743.79, while the Nifty added 57.40 points, or 0.23 per cent, to reach 24,910.80.

    The Nifty Bank index was up 33 points, or 0.06 per cent, at 55,747.15. The Nifty Midcap 100 index was trading at 58,358.95, down 20.35 points, or 0.03 per cent. The Nifty Smallcap 100 index was at 18,412.80, declining 7.55 points, or 0.04 per cent.

    According to analysts, hopes for de-escalation in the Middle East conflict have faded, as former U.S. President Donald Trump called for an “unconditional surrender” from Iran. Recent social media posts by Trump and U.S. defence movements in West Asia indicate a possible escalation, market experts noted.

    However, global equity markets have not shown signs of panic. “It appears that the market’s assessment is that this conflict will end soon without impacting the global economy,” said Dr. V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.

    In the Sensex pack, Power Grid, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Infosys, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, NTPC, and M&M were among the top losers. On the other hand, IndusInd Bank, HCL Tech, Sun Pharma, Eicher Motors, and TCS were the top gainers.

    “Nifty encountered resistance around the 61.8 per cent retracement level of the recent decline and has corrected from there. Yesterday’s high of 24,982 is the immediate resistance level on the way up. On the downside, 24,550–24,450 is a critical support zone,” said Vikram Kasat, Head of Advisory at Prabhudas Lilladher.

    On the institutional side, Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) were net buyers, purchasing equities worth ₹1,616.19 crore on June 17. Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) bought equities worth ₹7,796.57 crore on the same day.

    In the broader Asian markets, indices in Bangkok, Japan, and Seoul were trading in green, while Jakarta, Hong Kong, and China were in the red.

    In the last trading session, the Dow Jones Industrial Average in the U.S. closed at 42,215.80, down 299.29 points, or 0.70 per cent. The S&P 500 ended with a loss of 50.39 points, or 0.84 per cent, at 5,982.72, while the Nasdaq closed at 19,521.09, down 180.12 points, or 0.91 per cent.

    -IANS

  • Indian stock market trades in green amid rising geopolitical tensions

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The domestic benchmark indices opened lower on Wednesday amid rising geopolitical tensions but turned positive in early trade, led by buying in the auto, IT, and PSU bank sectors.

    At around 9:32 a.m., the Sensex was trading 160.49 points, or 0.20 per cent, higher at 81,743.79, while the Nifty added 57.40 points, or 0.23 per cent, to reach 24,910.80.

    The Nifty Bank index was up 33 points, or 0.06 per cent, at 55,747.15. The Nifty Midcap 100 index was trading at 58,358.95, down 20.35 points, or 0.03 per cent. The Nifty Smallcap 100 index was at 18,412.80, declining 7.55 points, or 0.04 per cent.

    According to analysts, hopes for de-escalation in the Middle East conflict have faded, as former U.S. President Donald Trump called for an “unconditional surrender” from Iran. Recent social media posts by Trump and U.S. defence movements in West Asia indicate a possible escalation, market experts noted.

    However, global equity markets have not shown signs of panic. “It appears that the market’s assessment is that this conflict will end soon without impacting the global economy,” said Dr. V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.

    In the Sensex pack, Power Grid, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Infosys, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, NTPC, and M&M were among the top losers. On the other hand, IndusInd Bank, HCL Tech, Sun Pharma, Eicher Motors, and TCS were the top gainers.

    “Nifty encountered resistance around the 61.8 per cent retracement level of the recent decline and has corrected from there. Yesterday’s high of 24,982 is the immediate resistance level on the way up. On the downside, 24,550–24,450 is a critical support zone,” said Vikram Kasat, Head of Advisory at Prabhudas Lilladher.

    On the institutional side, Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) were net buyers, purchasing equities worth ₹1,616.19 crore on June 17. Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) bought equities worth ₹7,796.57 crore on the same day.

    In the broader Asian markets, indices in Bangkok, Japan, and Seoul were trading in green, while Jakarta, Hong Kong, and China were in the red.

    In the last trading session, the Dow Jones Industrial Average in the U.S. closed at 42,215.80, down 299.29 points, or 0.70 per cent. The S&P 500 ended with a loss of 50.39 points, or 0.84 per cent, at 5,982.72, while the Nasdaq closed at 19,521.09, down 180.12 points, or 0.91 per cent.

    -IANS

  • PM Modi wraps up ‘productive’ Canada visit after G7 Summit, heads to Croatia

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday concluded what he described as a “productive visit” to Canada, where he participated in the G7 Summit at Kananaskis and held several high-level bilateral meetings with global leaders. He has now departed for Croatia, the final stop of his three-nation tour.

    “Concluding a productive Canada visit. Thankful to the Canadian people and Government for hosting a successful G7 Summit, which witnessed fruitful discussions on diverse global issues. We remain committed to furthering global peace, prosperity and sustainability,” PM Modi posted on X.

    In a separate post on X, Ministry of External affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said:

    “PM @narendramodi concludes a very productive visit to Canada! Held fruitful dialogue on key issues in the global context on energy security, technology, and innovation at the @G7 Summit. Met with several leaders and discussed bilateral ties. Next stop — Croatia.”

    During the G7 outreach session on energy security, PM Modi underscored the need for universal access to clean and sustainable energy. 

    He also highlighted India’s global initiatives, including the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and the Global Biofuels Alliance.

    PM Modi reiterated India’s zero-tolerance policy on terrorism, thanking leaders for their condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack. He called for unified global action against terrorism and emphasized the need to hold those who support or sponsor terrorism accountable.

    Highlighting India’s digital transformation, the Prime Minister emphasised India’s success in democratizing technology and adopting a human-centric approach. 

    “PM Modi also highlighted India’s experience in democratising use of technology and its human-centric approach in deploying it. He called for addressing global governance issues to tackle concerns of AI and to promote innovation in the field. He called for addressing global governance issues to tackle concerns of AI and to promote innovation in the field,” Jaiswal said in a post on X

    On the sidelines of the summit, PM Modi held bilateral meetings with several global leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission; Charles Michel, President of the European Council; Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney; South African President Cyril Ramaphosa; UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer; French President Emmanuel Macron; Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva; Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

    Before departing for the three-nation tour, PM Modi had said the visit aimed to thank key partner nations for their unwavering support in India’s fight against cross-border terrorism and to rally international consensus on combating terrorism in all its forms.

  • PM Modi wraps up ‘productive’ Canada visit after G7 Summit, heads to Croatia

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday concluded what he described as a “productive visit” to Canada, where he participated in the G7 Summit at Kananaskis and held several high-level bilateral meetings with global leaders. He has now departed for Croatia, the final stop of his three-nation tour.

    “Concluding a productive Canada visit. Thankful to the Canadian people and Government for hosting a successful G7 Summit, which witnessed fruitful discussions on diverse global issues. We remain committed to furthering global peace, prosperity and sustainability,” PM Modi posted on X.

    In a separate post on X, Ministry of External affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said:

    “PM @narendramodi concludes a very productive visit to Canada! Held fruitful dialogue on key issues in the global context on energy security, technology, and innovation at the @G7 Summit. Met with several leaders and discussed bilateral ties. Next stop — Croatia.”

    During the G7 outreach session on energy security, PM Modi underscored the need for universal access to clean and sustainable energy. 

    He also highlighted India’s global initiatives, including the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and the Global Biofuels Alliance.

    PM Modi reiterated India’s zero-tolerance policy on terrorism, thanking leaders for their condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack. He called for unified global action against terrorism and emphasized the need to hold those who support or sponsor terrorism accountable.

    Highlighting India’s digital transformation, the Prime Minister emphasised India’s success in democratizing technology and adopting a human-centric approach. 

    “PM Modi also highlighted India’s experience in democratising use of technology and its human-centric approach in deploying it. He called for addressing global governance issues to tackle concerns of AI and to promote innovation in the field. He called for addressing global governance issues to tackle concerns of AI and to promote innovation in the field,” Jaiswal said in a post on X

    On the sidelines of the summit, PM Modi held bilateral meetings with several global leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission; Charles Michel, President of the European Council; Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney; South African President Cyril Ramaphosa; UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer; French President Emmanuel Macron; Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva; Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

    Before departing for the three-nation tour, PM Modi had said the visit aimed to thank key partner nations for their unwavering support in India’s fight against cross-border terrorism and to rally international consensus on combating terrorism in all its forms.

  • PM Modi meets German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on the sidelines of G7 Summit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday met the Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, Friedrich Merz, on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada. This marked the first interaction between the two leaders since Chancellor Merz assumed office in May 2025.

    Prime Minister Modi congratulated Chancellor Merz on his recent electoral victory and his appointment as Chancellor. He also expressed heartfelt appreciation for the condolences extended by the German Government on the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad last week.

    Both leaders reviewed the progress in bilateral relations and welcomed the sustained momentum in India-Germany ties. They reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in key areas including trade and investment, defence and security, green and sustainable development, green energy, technology, innovation, education, and mobility.

    The leaders agreed to further deepen and diversify the India-Germany Strategic Partnership, especially as the two countries commemorate 25 years of this important bilateral framework.

    Condemning terrorism in all its forms, the two sides reiterated that it remains a serious threat to global peace and stability. Prime Minister Modi thanked Chancellor Merz for Germany’s strong support and solidarity with India’s counter-terrorism efforts.

    The leaders also exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest. Prime Minister Modi said that he looks forward to welcoming Chancellor Merz to India at a mutually convenient time.

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ3: Prevention of elderly suicide

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by Dr the Hon Tik Chi-yuen and a reply by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, in the Legislative Council today (June 18):
     
    Question:

         Regarding the prevention of elderly suicide, will the Government inform this Council:

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • PM Modi, Mark Carney agree on calibrated steps to restore India-Canada ties: Foreign Secretary Misri

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a key bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit on Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Canadian counterpart, Mark Carney, agreed to take “calibrated steps” to stabilise and rebuild the strained ties between India and Canada.

    Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri described the meeting as “very positive and constructive,” adding that both leaders underlined the importance of the relationship, grounded in “shared values, democracy, the rule of law, and people-to-people contact.”

    “The Prime Ministers agreed to take calibrated steps to restore stability to this very important relationship,” Misri told reporters in Kananaskis, Alberta, where the G7 Summit is underway. “The first of these steps will be the early restoration of High Commissioners to each other’s capitals.”

    Further, the foreign secretary said that the discussions explored a wide array of potential areas for collaboration, including clean energy, digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, food security, critical minerals, LNG, higher education, mobility, and supply chain resilience. The two leaders reaffirmed their shared interest in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

    Trade negotiations, which had stalled amid diplomatic tensions, were another major agenda item. The leaders agreed on the importance of restarting negotiations on the Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA), with a view to paving the way for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

    “The leaders have agreed to remain in touch and meet again at the earliest opportunity,” Misri said.

    Carney, attending his first G7 Summit as prime minister, described India’s participation as a reflection of its rising global stature. “India’s presence here underscores its importance on the world stage and Prime Minister Modi’s leadership,” he said, also acknowledging New Delhi’s contributions to global counter-terrorism efforts.

    PM Modi thanked Carney for the G7 invitation and recalled his last visit to Canada in 2015. He noted that India’s G20 presidency had laid a strong foundation for initiatives now gaining traction at the G7.

    “It is my honour to visit Canada once again. The strong foundation India laid during the G20 Summit has taken a new shape and given new direction at the G7,” the Prime Minister said.

    The meeting marked the first in-person interaction between the two leaders since Carney assumed office following Canada’s recent general elections. It came amid efforts to restore stability and momentum to bilateral ties, which had been strained in recent times.

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Announcement of sixth batch of recognised medical qualifications under Medical Registration Ordinance

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         In accordance with the Medical Registration Ordinance (MRO), the Registrar of Medical Practitioners (i.e. the Director of Health) announced today (June 18) the sixth batch of 22 medical qualifications (see Annex 1) recognised by the Special Registration Committee (SRC). The list will be gazetted on June 20 and take effect on the same day. It will be submitted to the Legislative Council for negative vetting on June 25. Together with the first five batches of recognised medical qualifications announced, the SRC has so far recognised a total of 150 medical qualifications (see Annex 2).

         The MRO provides that non-locally trained doctors who possess recognised medical qualifications, subject to their fulfilment of certain criteria, may apply for special registration to practise in the public healthcare institutions in Hong Kong (i.e. the Hospital Authority, the Department of Health, the University of Hong Kong and the Chinese University of Hong Kong). After serving for a certain period, obtaining recognised specialist qualifications and passing the assessment, they will be granted full registration to practise in Hong Kong. For non-locally trained medical graduates who possess recognised medical qualifications but have yet to undergo an internship outside Hong Kong, subject to their fulfilment of the relevant criteria, they may take the Licensing Examination of the Medical Council of Hong Kong (MCHK) in order to apply for special registration to practise in the public healthcare institutions in Hong Kong. They may also obtain full registration after meeting the requirements applicable to all special registration doctors.

         The SRC under the MCHK is responsible for determining the list of recognised medical qualifications upon reviewing the programmes offered by non-local medical schools with quality comparable to those provided by the two medical schools in Hong Kong and submitting the list to the Registrar of Medical Practitioners for promulgation. When determining the list of recognised medical qualifications, the SRC will consider and recommend a medical qualification that fulfils the following criteria:
    (a) that is at the level of degree or higher;
    (b) that is awarded by a body broadly comparable to any local university awarding medical qualifications in terms of international rankings; and
    (c) that is broadly comparable to the medical qualifications awarded by any local university in terms of:
    (i) the curriculum of the programmes leading to the medical qualifications;
    (ii) the medium of instruction of the programmes; and
    (iii) any other aspects the SRC considers appropriate.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ20: Carbon emission reduction

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is a question by the Hon Adrian Ho and a written reply by the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, in the Legislative Council today (June 18):
      
    Question:
     
    In October 2021, the Government announced Hong Kong’s Climate Action Plan 2050, which aims to reduce Hong Kong’s carbon emissions by half from the 2005 level before 2035 and outlines four major decarbonisation strategies, namely net-zero electricity generation, energy saving and green buildings, green transport and waste reduction. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) whether it will duly adjust its green policies in response to Hong Kong’s actual carbon emissions in recent years to accelerate the overall pace of decarbonisation in Hong Kong and thus achieve its carbon reduction targets as scheduled;
     
    (2) of the respective performances of various government departments over the past five years in key carbon reduction measures, such as energy saving, emission reduction, consumption and carbon emission reduction, as well as green procurement; whether government departments have set carbon reduction targets and timetables for the series of policy measures implemented in recent years, including the establishment of the Green Technology and Finance Development Committee and the implementation of the Uncertificated Securities Market initiative;
     
    (3) as there are views that the broad participation of businesses in decarbonisation efforts is vital for Hong Kong to achieve carbon neutrality, how many businesses and organisations have, as of May this year, joined the “Green Hong Kong．Carbon Audit” campaign by signing the Carbon Reduction Charter and agreeing to undertake and implement activities in support of reducing greenhouse gas emissions; whether it has assessed the effectiveness of the participating businesses and organisations in formulating and implementing carbon reduction measures;
     
    (4) as it is learnt that the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited established the Hong Kong International Carbon Market Council and subsequently launched an international carbon marketplace “Core Climate” in 2022, whether Government is aware of the current operational status of both the Council and Core Climate, as well as their respective effectiveness in promoting the implementation of decarbonisation measures among businesses in Hong Kong; and
     
    (5) given that green transport is one of the Government’s decarbonisation strategies, which includes achieving zero vehicular emissions and zero carbon emissions in the transport sector before 2050 through promoting the electrification of vehicles, and ceasing new registrations of fuel-propelled and hybrid private cars in or before 2035, whether the Government has assessed if the current progress of such efforts will enable the carbon reduction targets to be achieved on schedule?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
    In consultation with the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau, the reply to the question raised by the Hon Adrian Ho is as follows:
     
    (1) The Government has proposed four major decarbonisation strategies in the Hong Kong’s Climate Action Plan 2050, namely net-zero electricity generation, energy saving and green buildings, green transport and waste reduction, to lead Hong Kong to halve its carbon emissions from the 2005 level by 2035, with a view to achieving carbon neutrality before 2050. With our efforts in recent years in these four decarbonisation strategies, Hong Kong is making steady progress towards the carbon reduction target of 2035.
     
    Hong Kong’s total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have been on a downward trend after reaching its peak in 2014. With the gradual replacement of coal-fired power generation by natural gas and zero-carbon energy, the popularisation of electric vehicles, the reduction of municipal solid waste disposal, and the increased recovery and use of landfill gas for energy generation in Hong Kong, the total GHG emissions in 2023 were reduced by about 20 per cent from the 2005 level and about a quarter from the peak in 2014. The per capita GHG emissions in 2023 was 4.58 tonnes, which is a new low since 1990. It is nearly 30 per cent lower than those in 2005 and 2014, and is about a quarter of that of the United States and 60 per cent of that of the European Union.

    Combating climate change is a long-term task. In line with the spirit of the Paris Agreement, we will review the Hong Kong’s Climate Action Plan 2050 about every five years to update the strategies and targets for decarbonisation and other climate actions, and expect to release the review result in 2026.
     
    (2) To enhance the performance of government departments in energy conservation and carbon emissions, the Government has promulgated relevant internal circulars and guidelines to require departments to perform well in the area of environmental protection in their daily operations. Specific measures include energy conservation, adoption of renewable energy (RE), waste reduction and recycling, installation of electric vehicle charging facilities, water conservation and recycling, procurement of green products and services, etc. with a view to reducing carbon emissions. These government circulars and guidelines cover environmental targets for government buildings, carbon emission management, preparation of environmental reports by government departments, as well as green procurement, etc.
     
    The Government strives to improve the overall energy performance of government buildings and infrastructure by more than 6 per cent in 2024-25, compared to the 2018-19 baseline. To this end, the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) has requested all bureaux and departments (B/Ds) to provide information on the energy consumption and RE of government buildings and facilities annually, and organised briefing sessions to discuss energy performance, and provides technical advice on energy-saving measures and planning of RE projects. As at 2022-23, the Government’s overall energy performance has improved by about 5.3 per cent. While the data for 2023-24 is still being compiled, based on the recent trends in energy performance, the Government is confident that the target of over 6 per cent improvement can be achieved. The Environment and Ecology Bureau (EEB) will continue to encourage all B/Ds to take measures to enhance energy performance and explore means to leverage innovative technologies to promote cost-effective solutions for improving energy efficiency in government buildings. 
    (3) The Government launched the “Green Hong Kong．Carbon Audit” campaign with a view to encouraging organisations of various sectors to support greenhouse gas emission reduction activities. The participating organisations would, according to their respective situations, formulate and implement carbon reduction measures such as promoting carbon audits, establishing environmental management systems, and installing and replacing energy-efficient office equipment. Currently, over 140 organisations, including property management companies, universities, professional bodies, non-profit-making organisations and other business organisations, have joined the “Green Hong Kong．Carbon Audit” campaign. In addition to raising the awareness of participating organisations in carbon reduction and encouraging these organisations to conduct carbon audits and implement carbon reduction plans, the campaign also helps corporates prepare for addressing new climate-related disclosure requirements.
     
    The Government launched in December last year the Roadmap on Sustainability Disclosure in Hong Kong (Roadmap), injecting new impetus into the carbon management work of large publicly accountable entities (PAEs) (including large listed issuers and non-listed financial institutions carrying a significant weight). As the first step, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) has introduced new climate-related disclosures requirements (New Climate Requirements) which have been developed based on International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) S2 Climate-related Disclosures. The New Climate Requirements, covering, among others, mandating all listed issuers to disclose scope 1 and scope 2 GHG emissions, have been implemented in phases starting from January 2025. 
    (4) HKEX launched the Hong Kong International Carbon Market Council (the Council) in July 2022, with members comprising Mainland, Hong Kong, and international corporates and financial institutions, to facilitate the development of an efficient and effective Hong Kong-based international carbon market with best-in-class market infrastructure, products and services, promoting the transition to a low-carbon economy in the region.
     
    Subsequently, HKEX launched the Core Climate, an international carbon marketplace, in October in the same year, facilitating effective and transparent trading of carbon credits and instruments to support the global transition to Net Zero. It offers quality carbon credits from internationally-certified projects in Asia, South America and Africa, covering forestry, solar, wind and biomass initiatives. Core Climate is currently the only carbon marketplace that offers HKD and RMB settlement for the trading of international voluntary carbon credits. The platform’s participant number reached 100 by end of 2024. Core Climate has facilitated carbon credit trading by various corporates through the provision of trustworthy settlement services, enhancing efficiency and mitigating risks, including Cathay Pacific Airways Limited’s settlement of 50 000 tonnes of voluntary carbon credits in December last year, fully demonstrating the important role of Core Climate in supporting corporates on their climate transition journey. 
    (5) The Government is committed to promoting the use of electric vehicles (EV). The Hong Kong Roadmap on Popularisation of Electric Vehicles announced in March 2021 covers policy directions and targets in various areas in promoting the adoption of new energy transport technologies, so as to guide Hong Kong towards zero vehicular emissions before 2050. In recent years, Hong Kong has achieved remarkable results in the popularisation of EV. The number of EV was eightfold from about 14 000 five years ago to about 110 000 at the end of last year. Currently, about seven out of every ten newly registered private cars are electric private cars (e-PC), and the proportion is among the highest in the world, with a good growth momentum.
     
    Charging network is critical to the popularisation of EV. As of March 2025, Hong Kong had nearly 100 000 parking spaces equipped with charging infrastructure. There are 11 180 public charging facilities, of which about 2 000 are quick or fast charging facilities. We will continue to adopt a multi-pronged approach to increase charging facilities, including (i) tightening the exemption measure for calculating the gross floor area of buildings to encourage parking spaces in new private buildings to be equipped with charging infrastructure; and (ii) launching the $3.5 billion “EV-charging at Home Subsidy Scheme” to assist existing private residential buildings and housing estate car parks to install EV charging infrastructure. It is estimated that by mid-2027, more than 200 000 parking spaces in private buildings will be equipped with charging infrastructure.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Prime Minister meets Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, on Tuesday.

    This was the first in-person interaction between the two leaders since Prime Minister Carney assumed office following Canada’s recent general elections. The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to hold frank and forward-looking discussions on the state of India-Canada relations and the way ahead.

    The leaders reaffirmed the importance of India-Canada ties, based on shared democratic values, respect for the rule of law. and commitment to upholding the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. They underlined the need to pursue a constructive and balanced partnership grounded in mutual respect for concerns and sensitivities, strong people-to-people ties, and growing economic complementarities. In this regard, both sides agreed to take calibrated and constructive steps to restore stability in the relationship, beginning with the early return of High Commissioners to each other’s capitals.

    They also emphasized the importance of restarting senior ministerial and working-level engagements across various domains to rebuild trust and inject momentum into the bilateral relationship.

    During their talks, the leaders discussed potential areas of future collaboration, including clean energy, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, liquefied natural gas (LNG), food security, critical minerals, higher education, mobility, and supply chain resilience. They reiterated their shared interest in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific.

    The two leaders also stressed the importance of restarting negotiations on the stalled Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA), with a view to eventually concluding a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). To that end, they agreed to instruct their respective officials to intensify engagement.

    Both sides acknowledged the significant progress made at the G7 Summit and expressed their shared commitment to working together constructively on global priorities such as climate action, inclusive growth, and sustainable development.

    They further underlined the strength of the deep-rooted people-to-people ties between India and Canada, agreeing to leverage this living bridge for the benefit of both nations.

    The leaders concluded their meeting with a commitment to remain in touch and expressed hope to meet again at the earliest opportunity.

  • Prime Minister meets Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, on Tuesday.

    This was the first in-person interaction between the two leaders since Prime Minister Carney assumed office following Canada’s recent general elections. The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to hold frank and forward-looking discussions on the state of India-Canada relations and the way ahead.

    The leaders reaffirmed the importance of India-Canada ties, based on shared democratic values, respect for the rule of law. and commitment to upholding the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. They underlined the need to pursue a constructive and balanced partnership grounded in mutual respect for concerns and sensitivities, strong people-to-people ties, and growing economic complementarities. In this regard, both sides agreed to take calibrated and constructive steps to restore stability in the relationship, beginning with the early return of High Commissioners to each other’s capitals.

    They also emphasized the importance of restarting senior ministerial and working-level engagements across various domains to rebuild trust and inject momentum into the bilateral relationship.

    During their talks, the leaders discussed potential areas of future collaboration, including clean energy, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, liquefied natural gas (LNG), food security, critical minerals, higher education, mobility, and supply chain resilience. They reiterated their shared interest in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific.

    The two leaders also stressed the importance of restarting negotiations on the stalled Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA), with a view to eventually concluding a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). To that end, they agreed to instruct their respective officials to intensify engagement.

    Both sides acknowledged the significant progress made at the G7 Summit and expressed their shared commitment to working together constructively on global priorities such as climate action, inclusive growth, and sustainable development.

    They further underlined the strength of the deep-rooted people-to-people ties between India and Canada, agreeing to leverage this living bridge for the benefit of both nations.

    The leaders concluded their meeting with a commitment to remain in touch and expressed hope to meet again at the earliest opportunity.

  • MIL-OSI China: Regular Press Briefing of the Ministry of National Defense on June 9, 2025 2025-06-18 On the afternoon of June 9, 2025, Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, Deputy Director-General of the Information Office of China’s Ministry of National Defense and Spokesperson for the MND, responded to recent media queries concerning the military.

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

    On the afternoon of June 9, 2025, Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, Deputy Director-General of the Information Office of China’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) and Spokesperson for the MND, responded to recent media queries concerning the military.

    On the afternoon of June 9, 2025, Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, Deputy Director-General of the Information Office of China’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) and Spokesperson for the MND, answers recent media queries concerning the military. (Photo by Li Xiaowei)

    (The following English text is for reference. In case of any divergence of interpretation, the Chinese text shall prevail.)

    Jiang Bin: First, I would like to announce two pieces of information.

    First, at the invitation of the Ministry of Defense of Mongolia, PLA Army soldiers will go to Mongolia in mid-June to participate in the Khaan Quest-2025 multinational peacekeeping exercise.

    Secondly, the 20th meeting of the Experts’ Working Group on Peacekeeping Operations under the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) will be held in Nanjing from June 11 to 14. The member states and observer states of the ADMM-Plus, as well as the United Nations and the ASEAN Secretariat will send representatives to the event. Themed on “Technology and Innovation: Enhancing Military Cooperation in Peacekeeping Operations”, the meeting aims to deepen military mutual trust and security cooperation among regional countries and enhance their capacities for peacekeeping operations.

    Journalist: President Xi Jinping, Chairman of the Central Military Commission, recently signed an order to release the Regulation on Awarding Military Scientific Research. Please provide more information about this.

    Jiang Bin: As the first military-wide document on awarding military scientific research, the Regulation features three characteristics. First, it incorporates the standard of combat effectiveness throughout the entire awarding process, takes the contribution to the generation of combat capabilities as the primary criterion for evaluation, and assigns it the greatest weight. Second, it categorizes awards as theoretical research, scientific and technological advancement, and technological innovation, and establishes different levels of rewards including special, first-class, second-class, and third-class awards, constituting a well-structured military research award system with sound classification and evaluation methods. Third, it adjusts the awarding process, sets limits on the total number of awards, and emphasizes discipline and conduct. This will let researchers stay focused on their work and pursue innovation through solid efforts. The Regulation is expected to enhance innovation in military research, accelerate breakthroughs in military theory and defense technology, and support the building of a strong military in the new era with high-quality technology.

    Journalist: It is reported that the British government recently released its Strategic Defense Review, claiming that China is leveraging its economic, technological, and military capabilities to establish dominance in the Indo-Pacific, posing a “sophisticated and persistent challenge.” What’s your comment on this?

    Jiang Bin: China stays committed to the path of peaceful development and a defense policy that is defensive in nature. China has worked all along to uphold, promote and contribute to security in the Asia Pacific region. China’s development brings opportunities, not challenges, to other countries, and contributes stability and positive energy to world peace. We hope that the UK side adopts a right perception of China, respect facts, take a rational view of China and its military development, stop hyping up the so-called “China threat”, and do more to facilitate the development of bilateral ties and military relations between the two countries.

    On the afternoon of June 9, 2025, Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, Deputy Director-General of the Information Office of China’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) and Spokesperson for the MND, answers recent media queries concerning the military. (Photo by Li Xiaowei)

    Journalist：It is reported that the US is transporting a new batch of M1A2 tanks to Taiwan and plans to increase its arms sales to Taiwan over the next four years. New arms sales may surpass that of the first Trump administration. In addition, a former official of the US military said that about 500 US military personnel are operating in Taiwan, which is over ten times of the number previously disclosed by the US Congress. What’s your comment on this?

    Jiang Bin: This is another solid piece of evidence that the US side and the “Taiwan independence” separatist forces are taking efforts to violate China’s core interests, change the status quo across the Taiwan Strait and escalate regional tensions. Who is making provocations despite strong opposition from the Chinese side? Who is undermining cross-Strait stability and repeatedly stirring up troubles? We believe we all know the answers. The Chinese side is strongly dissatisfied and firmly opposed to this act.

    The Taiwan question is at the very core of China’s core interests, and is the first red line that must not be crossed in China-US relations. We urge the US side to stop its military collusion with Taiwan in any form; otherwise it will get burnt for playing with fire and gain more harm than good. We warn the DPP authorities that US weapons cannot save them, and soliciting external support for “Taiwan independence” will only fail. The PLA will continue to strengthen military training and combat readiness and enhance its capability to fight and win. We will take resolute measures to thwart “Taiwan independence” separatist activities and external interference.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • PM Modi takes part in G7 Summit’s outreach session on energy security

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday participated in the outreach session on energy security at the 51st G7 Summit, where he underscored the need for a sustainable and inclusive approach to global energy access.

    Addressing the gathering, PM Modi emphasised the importance of ensuring energy security for all people through green and sustainable pathways. He highlighted India’s key international initiatives in this area, including the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and the Global Biofuels Alliance, according to Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

    “Artificial Intelligence itself is an energy-intensive technology. The only sustainable way to meet the energy demands of a technology-driven world is through renewable energy,” the Prime Minister said. “Ensuring affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy remains India’s top priority.”

    He also reiterated India’s belief that technology holds real value only when its benefits reach every person, particularly in the Global South. “No country in the Global South should be left behind,” he said.

    Referring to India’s experience with digital governance, he noted that the country has democratised access to technology through its Digital Public Infrastructure, empowering both the economy and citizens. He also stressed that meaningful and high-quality data is essential for developing inclusive, capable, and responsible AI systems.

    Highlighting the growing relevance of artificial intelligence, PM Modi called for global governance mechanisms to address its associated risks and to promote innovation. He underlined the strategic link between critical minerals and emerging technologies, and called for resilient and secure supply chains. “In the era of AI, close collaboration between critical minerals and technology is essential,” he said.

    He raised concerns over the misuse of AI, particularly the rise of deepfake technology. “Deepfakes are a serious concern. There must be clear watermarks or disclosures on AI-generated content,” he said.

    Reflecting on historical trends, PM Modi noted that while the last century was marked by competition for energy, the current century demands cooperation in the realm of technology. “India is moving ahead on the principles of availability, accessibility, affordability, and acceptability, and has chosen the path of inclusive development,” he said.

    Despite being the world’s fastest-growing major economy, India has already fulfilled its Paris Agreement commitments ahead of schedule, he noted. “We are moving rapidly toward our target of Net Zero by 2070. Currently, renewable energy constitutes about 50 per cent of our total installed capacity,” he added.

    Turning to geopolitical challenges, PM Modi drew attention to the disproportionate impact of crises—such as those related to food, fuel, fertilisers, and finance—on Global South nations. “These countries suffer the most from global uncertainties and conflicts. India considers it its responsibility to bring their concerns to the global stage,” he said.

    On the issue of terrorism, the Prime Minister made a strong statement against double standards. Referring to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, he said, “This was not just an attack on a place; it was an assault on the soul, identity, and dignity of every Indian — and indeed, on humanity itself.”

    “Terrorism is the enemy of humanity and threatens all nations that uphold democratic values. There must be no ambiguity: if a country supports terrorism, it must be held accountable,” he said. “While we are quick to impose sanctions on various issues, the same urgency must be applied to terrorism.”

    The Prime Minister thanked world leaders at the G7 Summit for condemning the Pahalgam attack and urged the international community to take strong action against those who support or sponsor terrorism.

    He concluded by reiterating India’s commitment to promoting a human-centric and inclusive approach to technology, and called for strengthened global cooperation to ensure peace, sustainability, and equitable development.

    (IANS)

  • PM Modi takes part in G7 Summit’s outreach session on energy security

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday participated in the outreach session on energy security at the 51st G7 Summit, where he underscored the need for a sustainable and inclusive approach to global energy access.

    Addressing the gathering, PM Modi emphasised the importance of ensuring energy security for all people through green and sustainable pathways. He highlighted India’s key international initiatives in this area, including the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and the Global Biofuels Alliance, according to Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

    “Artificial Intelligence itself is an energy-intensive technology. The only sustainable way to meet the energy demands of a technology-driven world is through renewable energy,” the Prime Minister said. “Ensuring affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy remains India’s top priority.”

    He also reiterated India’s belief that technology holds real value only when its benefits reach every person, particularly in the Global South. “No country in the Global South should be left behind,” he said.

    Referring to India’s experience with digital governance, he noted that the country has democratised access to technology through its Digital Public Infrastructure, empowering both the economy and citizens. He also stressed that meaningful and high-quality data is essential for developing inclusive, capable, and responsible AI systems.

    Highlighting the growing relevance of artificial intelligence, PM Modi called for global governance mechanisms to address its associated risks and to promote innovation. He underlined the strategic link between critical minerals and emerging technologies, and called for resilient and secure supply chains. “In the era of AI, close collaboration between critical minerals and technology is essential,” he said.

    He raised concerns over the misuse of AI, particularly the rise of deepfake technology. “Deepfakes are a serious concern. There must be clear watermarks or disclosures on AI-generated content,” he said.

    Reflecting on historical trends, PM Modi noted that while the last century was marked by competition for energy, the current century demands cooperation in the realm of technology. “India is moving ahead on the principles of availability, accessibility, affordability, and acceptability, and has chosen the path of inclusive development,” he said.

    Despite being the world’s fastest-growing major economy, India has already fulfilled its Paris Agreement commitments ahead of schedule, he noted. “We are moving rapidly toward our target of Net Zero by 2070. Currently, renewable energy constitutes about 50 per cent of our total installed capacity,” he added.

    Turning to geopolitical challenges, PM Modi drew attention to the disproportionate impact of crises—such as those related to food, fuel, fertilisers, and finance—on Global South nations. “These countries suffer the most from global uncertainties and conflicts. India considers it its responsibility to bring their concerns to the global stage,” he said.

    On the issue of terrorism, the Prime Minister made a strong statement against double standards. Referring to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, he said, “This was not just an attack on a place; it was an assault on the soul, identity, and dignity of every Indian — and indeed, on humanity itself.”

    “Terrorism is the enemy of humanity and threatens all nations that uphold democratic values. There must be no ambiguity: if a country supports terrorism, it must be held accountable,” he said. “While we are quick to impose sanctions on various issues, the same urgency must be applied to terrorism.”

    The Prime Minister thanked world leaders at the G7 Summit for condemning the Pahalgam attack and urged the international community to take strong action against those who support or sponsor terrorism.

    He concluded by reiterating India’s commitment to promoting a human-centric and inclusive approach to technology, and called for strengthened global cooperation to ensure peace, sustainability, and equitable development.

    (IANS)