Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
President Donald Trump said early on Sunday that if Iran attacks the United States in any way, it would face the might of the U.S. military “at levels never seen before.”
Trump said in a post on his Truth Social platform that the U.S. had nothing to do with an attack on Iran overnight and that “we can easily get a deal done between Iran and Israel, and end this bloody conflict!!!”
More to follow.
(Reuters)
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
In a world increasingly obsessed with external forms of wellness, a profound initiative is set to remind us of yoga’s inner essence in the US, as cities globally prepare to celebrate the International Day of Yoga (IDY) on June 21.
‘The Spirit of Yoga’, a special International Day of Yoga celebration, is being co-hosted by the Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual Organization at the serene Global Harmony House in Great Neck on Long Island on June 22, the organisers said in a statement on Sunday.
While most Yoga Day celebrations revolve around physical postures and public demonstrations of flexibility, ‘The Spirit of Yoga’ programme seeks to reclaim yoga’s soul, rekindling its spiritual roots.
The event will witness a lineup of dignitaries, spiritual leaders and practitioners who bring wisdom, inspiration, and the live experience of yogic values to about 250 seekers in the hall, and many more attending virtually.
Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York, will be the Chief Guest who will speak on India’s gift of yoga to the world, in the presence of BK Mohini Didi, the revered Chief Administrative Head of the Brahma Kumaris international organization.
Set in the tranquil atmosphere of Global Harmony House, a spiritual sanctuary and the regional headquarters of the Brahma Kumaris for the Americas and the Caribbean, this gathering is designed to be an immersive, contemplative, and celebratory experience.
“In today’s commercialised wellness world, yoga is often reduced to fitness,” said Gayatri Naraine, the NGO representative of the Brahma Kumaris at the UN. “But the true spirit of yoga is about connecting to our highest self, to the Supreme, through spiritual awareness.”
“We are focusing on yoga as a way of being – anchored in awareness, self-realisation, and harmony,” said Parveen Chopra, Founding Editor of ALotusInTheMud.com and co-moderator of the event. “Yoga, as in Patanjali’s 8-limbed path, finds its fulfilment in dhyan, asanas are just a part and accessory.”
(IANS)
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
Police today officially launched the digitalisation of Fixed Penalty Notices, and will issue penalty tickets for illegal parking and moving traffic offences electronically from now on.
Additionally, a thematic portal and mobile application have also been launched to facilitate vehicle owners and drivers to verify and settle their fines using electronic payment methods.
The force will issue electronic penalty tickets (ePTs) according to the verified e-contact means (ECM) submitted by offenders to the Transport Department – SMS tickets for those who have provided a Hong Kong mobile phone number, and email tickets for those who have provided an email address.
It will continue to issue printed paper penalty tickets to those that have not submitted their verified ECMs.
At the initial stage of implementation, Police will adopt a “dual-track” transitional arrangement. Offenders will receive both ePTs and printed paper tickets, and they are only required to settle their fines using either one. Members of the public are encouraged to use ePTs.
The formats of penalty tickets have also been updated to include new payment information and methods.
The force reminds the public that all SMS tickets are issued under the SMS sender name “#HKPF-eTT”, and a purported SMS ticket that is not sent under this sender name must be fake.
Moreover, all SMS or email tickets do not contain any hyperlinks, and people should avoid clicking on any suspicious hyperlinks or providing any personal information.
Lastly, the platform’s thematic portal has a domain ending with “.gov.hk”. Websites that do not end with “.gov.hk” are not government official websites.
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
The sixth round of nuclear negotiations between the United States and Iran, scheduled for Sunday in Muscat, has been cancelled, Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi confirmed on Saturday. Oman, which has been acting as a mediator, announced the cancellation following Israel’s sweeping air offensive against Iran on Friday that targeted nuclear facilities and killed several senior commanders and scientists.
The talks, aimed at resolving longstanding concerns over Iran’s nuclear programme, were called off as regional tensions soared in the wake of the Israeli strikes and subsequent Iranian retaliation. In a statement posted on X, Albusaidi said, “The Iran-U.S. talks scheduled to be held in Muscat this Sunday will not now take place,” while reaffirming that “diplomacy and dialogue remain the only pathway to lasting peace.”
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar will be on a two-day official visit to Puducherry on June 16 and 17, during which he will attend key events at the Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER) and Pondicherry University.
On June 16, the Vice President will be the Chief Guest at a special programme titled ‘Environmental Sustainability in Building the Nation’ at JIPMER’s APJ Abdul Kalam Auditorium.
The event will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is aimed at fostering dialogue and awareness around sustainable development.
Vice President Dhankhar will also engage in an interactive session with students, faculty, and staff of JIPMER, reflecting his commitment to connecting with the academic community on matters of national importance.
A key highlight of the event will be the planting of a sapling by the Vice President under “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam (One Tree in the Name of Mother)” campaign. Initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on World Environment Day, the campaign promotes environmental awareness while paying tribute to motherhood.
The sapling will be planted in the name of the Vice President’s mother, Kesari Devi. The event will be graced by several dignitaries, including Puducherry Lieutenant Governor K. Kailashnathan, Chief Minister N. Rangasamy, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly R. Selvam, Rajya Sabha MP S. Selvaganabathy, Lok Sabha MP V. Vaithilingam, and MLA V. Aroumougame.
In his capacity as the Chancellor of Pondicherry University, Vice President Dhankhar will make the visit on June 17 at 10:00 a.m., during which he will interact with faculty, students, and administrative staff at the Jawaharlal Nehru Auditorium, located within the Dr B.R. Ambedkar Administrative Building.
The visit underscores the Vice President’s continued engagement with academic institutions and his emphasis on environmental sustainability, national development, and youth empowerment.
Both the institutions – JIPMER and Pondicherry University – are preparing to welcome the Vice President with high-level arrangements and enthusiastic participation from the student and faculty communities.
(With inputs from IANS)
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
The intensification of the southwest monsoon has brought continuous rainfall to the Western Ghats region, leading to a significant rise in the water levels of key reservoirs in Tamil Nadu’s Tirunelveli and Tenkasi districts.
According to Public Works Department (PWD) officials, sustained showers over the past several days have contributed to increased inflow into the region’s main water bodies, notably the Papanasam, Servalar, and Manimuthar reservoirs.
The Papanasam reservoir, one of the major sources of irrigation and drinking water in the region, recorded a water level of 126.55 feet as of Saturday. It received an inflow of 2,845.43 cubic feet per second (cusecs), while the outflow was maintained at 1,400 cusecs to meet agricultural and domestic water needs.
The Servalar reservoir also witnessed a steady rise in water level, reaching 135.17 feet.
Meanwhile, the Manimuthar reservoir stood at 93.43 feet, with water levels gradually climbing due to persistent monsoon showers. Authorities noted that the ongoing rainfall in the upper catchment areas of the Western Ghats is expected to further elevate water levels in the coming days.
Officials are closely monitoring inflows and managing reservoir releases to ensure sufficient water availability for irrigation while simultaneously taking precautionary measures to prevent flooding in downstream areas.
“We are releasing water in a controlled manner to support agricultural activities and drinking water supply, while also ensuring that there is no overflow or threat to low-lying areas,” said a senior PWD engineer overseeing water management in the region.
Local farmers have welcomed the timely rains, expressing hope for a productive cropping season ahead.
The increased reservoir levels are also likely to bring relief to communities that have faced water scarcity during the summer months.
With the southwest monsoon expected to remain active in the region for the next few weeks, the PWD and district administrations remain on alert to manage both water conservation and flood risk mitigation effectively.
(IANS)
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread heavy to very heavy rainfall across Kerala till June 18, prompting authorities to issue red, orange, and yellow alerts for multiple districts.
Squally weather conditions are also expected along the state’s coastline, leading to a ban on fishing activities.
A red alert, indicating extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 20 cm in 24 hours, has been issued for Malappuram and Kozhikode on June 17. The alert is extended to Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod on June 18, as monsoon activity intensifies in the northern districts. The red alert represents the most severe weather warnings, indicating extremely heavy rainfall within 24 hours.
An orange alert, which signals very heavy rain ranging from 11 to 20 cm, has been announced for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, and Palakkad on June 16,17.
The weather department has also issued an orange alert on June 18 in Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod.
Several other districts are under yellow alert, which is issued for expected heavy rainfall between 6 and 11 cm. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Alappuzha on June 17, while on June 18 yellow alert is issued for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, and Thrissur.
In addition to rainfall alerts, the IMD has warned of squally weather with wind speeds of 40 to 50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph along and off the Kerala coast.
These conditions are expected to prevail until June 18.
Fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the sea during this period due to the risk of rough sea conditions.
State disaster management officials have urged residents in vulnerable areas to exercise caution, particularly in hilly regions prone to landslides and flooding.
Local administrations have been instructed to stay on high alert and prepare for emergency response as needed. The government has also asked the public to stay updated through official weather bulletins and follow safety instructions issued by authorities.
(IANS)
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
Union Power Minister Manohar Lal on Saturday visited the Gorakhpur Haryana Anu Vidyut Pariyojana (GHAVP) to review the progress of the nuclear power project, being implemented by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) under the Department of Atomic Energy.
The project involves setting up 4×700 MWe Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs).
Once completed, 50 per cent of the electricity generated will be allocated to Haryana, significantly boosting the state’s energy capacity, according to a statement by Power Ministry.
Commercial operation at the plant are expected by March 2031.
The minister was also apprised of NPCIL’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. A total of Rs 75 crore has been spent on community development activities such as construction of roads, schools, provision of medical vans, and development of an Astro Turf Hockey Ground.
Skill development initiatives and public awareness programs have also been conducted in schools, NCC camps, and civil service training programmes. The “Atom on Wheels” mobile exhibition van was highlighted as a key outreach initiative to educate and engage the public on nuclear energy and safety.
Manohar Lal appreciated NPCIL’s efforts and reiterated the importance of nuclear power in achieving clean, safe, and reliable energy for the nation’s future.
Last month, Manohar Lal said the Centre has asked state governments to examine the feasibility of setting up nuclear power plants.
The Centre also asked Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to explore the possibility of establishing a nuclear power facility as a long-term measure for energy security and sustainability in the coastal state.
The Union Minister said that India was currently generating eight gigawatts of nuclear power while the aim is to generate 100 gigawatts by 2047.
Highlighting the importance of operational efficiency, the Minister encouraged Goa to further reduce utility losses and integrate more Renewable Energy into the grid. He mentioned that this would help lower the cost of power supply and enhance overall performance.
(IANS)
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
Union Power Minister Manohar Lal on Saturday visited the Gorakhpur Haryana Anu Vidyut Pariyojana (GHAVP) to review the progress of the nuclear power project, being implemented by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) under the Department of Atomic Energy.
The project involves setting up 4×700 MWe Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs).
Once completed, 50 per cent of the electricity generated will be allocated to Haryana, significantly boosting the state’s energy capacity, according to a statement by Power Ministry.
Commercial operation at the plant are expected by March 2031.
The minister was also apprised of NPCIL’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. A total of Rs 75 crore has been spent on community development activities such as construction of roads, schools, provision of medical vans, and development of an Astro Turf Hockey Ground.
Skill development initiatives and public awareness programs have also been conducted in schools, NCC camps, and civil service training programmes. The “Atom on Wheels” mobile exhibition van was highlighted as a key outreach initiative to educate and engage the public on nuclear energy and safety.
Manohar Lal appreciated NPCIL’s efforts and reiterated the importance of nuclear power in achieving clean, safe, and reliable energy for the nation’s future.
Last month, Manohar Lal said the Centre has asked state governments to examine the feasibility of setting up nuclear power plants.
The Centre also asked Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to explore the possibility of establishing a nuclear power facility as a long-term measure for energy security and sustainability in the coastal state.
The Union Minister said that India was currently generating eight gigawatts of nuclear power while the aim is to generate 100 gigawatts by 2047.
Highlighting the importance of operational efficiency, the Minister encouraged Goa to further reduce utility losses and integrate more Renewable Energy into the grid. He mentioned that this would help lower the cost of power supply and enhance overall performance.
(IANS)
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
In response to a media report about impurities found in drinking water samples from various districts, the Development Bureau pointed out that the tests mentioned in the report were not conducted in strict compliance with the international standards adopted by Hong Kong’s drinking water testing programme.
The bureau said, as understood, the media organisation had mainly collected samples of impurities from aerators of water taps, commonly known as strainers, and then placed the samples into water for laboratory testing.
It noted that aerators are a kind of filter accessory commonly installed at household water taps and shower heads to help block impurities, hence the presence of impurities in the samples is simply a result of the strainer functioning, and is not abnormal.
In the past, the Water Supplies Department (WSD) had received similar inquiries, and staff members were deployed immediately to conduct onsite inspection.
They also arranged for flushing of consumers’ water meter, reminded them to cleanse the strainers, and checked for any irregularities in water quality. If a water quality issue is suspected, the WSD would collect drinking water samples for testing and notify consumers about the results.
In fact, only a few of such cases required water sample testing in the past three years, and the testing results showed that the water samples complied with Hong Kong Drinking Water Standards (HKDWS).
The bureau stressed that water quality testing must be conducted in accordance with international standards, including taking reference to ISO5667 of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) for sampling, and referencing Chinese National Standard GB/T 5750 and the American Public Health Association’s in testing methods and procedures.
The samples tested must be drinking water samples, not those collected from strainers as arranged by the relevant media organisation. In other words, the type of samples, methods and procedures will affect the validity and representativeness of the tests.
As mentioned in the report, impurities collected from the strainers include resin, plastic and silicone. The bureau said it may relate to materials peeling off from pipes or fittings of the inside service of the building. These substances are not soluble in water. If they are found, the inside service should be cleansed as soon as possible.
The bureau explained that the drinking water supplied by the WSD undergoes strict treatment and meets HKDWS. However, materials may peel off from public or inside service pipes of buildings due to aging or water pressure, necessitating the installation of strainers at pipes.
Property owners, registered agents and management offices must carry out regular and proper maintenance of building’s inside service, including cleansing sump and rooftop tanks, to maintain good drinking water quality at the consumers’ taps.
To ensure the city’s drinking water quality, the WSD runs a routine drinking water testing programme, randomly collecting water samples from over 28,000 publicly accessible consumers’ taps in shopping centres, community facilities, sports venues and government offices, for testing every year.
The sampling rate is based on international standards and the water quality parameters are drawn up in accordance with World Health Organization guidelines.
Moreover, the WSD randomly selects about 670 residential and non-residential water accounts each year to collect drinking water samples at their water taps and test for six metals, namely, antimony, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead and nickel, to ensure HKDWS compliance. The test results are regularly published on the department’s website.
The bureau added that the WSD had requested more detailed information, including sampling locations, for follow-up with the consumer when enquiries were received from the media organisation. It is still awaiting such information.
Citizens may call the WSD’s 24-hour hotline 2824 5000 to enquire about drinking water quality.
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said on Saturday that India is firmly on track to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2029, crediting 11 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “decisive and corruption-free” governance for triggering an “unstoppable surge” in national development.
Addressing a press conference in Dibrugarh to mark the NDA government’s 11th anniversary, Sonowal said that India has moved past an era of ‘policy paralysis and dynastic misrule’ and is now being powered by welfare-led development, innovation by the youth, and record-breaking infrastructure expansion.
He said over 25 crore people have come out of poverty in the last 10 years, a number bigger than the population of many European countries.
“This is the Modi guarantee – delivery with speed, scale and honesty,” Sonowal said.
The Union minister added that India’s journey to becoming the fourth-largest global economy is just the beginning.
By 2029, he said, India will rise to the third spot. “We are building a strong foundation for a Viksit Bharat — a developed, self-reliant India,” he said.
Sonowal also highlighted India’s booming startup ecosystem, which has grown from 30,000 startups in 2014 to over 1 lakh today.
“Over 1.7 crore youth are now part of this vibrant startup movement. This is the new India — full of young dreamers and doers,” he said.
Talking about the development of the Northeast, Sonowal said it has been transformed under the Modi government.
“Prime Minister Modi has visited the Northeast more than 70 times — more than any other PM in history. He turned a neglected region into a growth engine,” he said.
According to Sonowal, the recent ‘Rising Northeast’ summit brought in investment promises worth over Rs 4.5 lakh crore.
He said major infrastructure projects are ongoing, including roads, railways, internet connectivity and modern river ports at Jogighopa, Dhubri, Pandu and Dibrugarh that will connect Assam with global trade routes.
(With inputs from IANS)
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan said on Saturday that National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 envisions India as a global study destination, offering premium education at an affordable cost.
He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of positioning India as a global knowledge hub the country is encouraging top international universities to establish campuses here, while empowering Indian higher education institutions to expand globally.
He was speaking at an event titled ‘Mumbai Rising: Creating an International Education City’ held in Mumbai to issue Letters of Intent (LoIs) to five globally reputed universities from the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States of America and Italy.
The Minister said the establishment of the branch campuses of University of York, University of Aberdeen, University of Western Australia, Illinois Institute of Technology and Instituto Europeo Di Design (IED), Italy, reflects a deep and growing trust in India’s education ecosystem and is a major milestone as we mark five transformative years of the NEP 2020.
The handing of the LOIs took place in the presence of Chief Minister of Maharashtra Devendra Fadnavis, Minister of Higher and Technical Education, Government of Maharashtra, Chandrakant Patil, Principal Secretary, Government of Maharashtra, Aseem Gupta and Secretary, Department of Higher Education and Chairman, UGC, Dr Vineet Joshi.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that the swift issuance of LoIs reflects the speed and commitment of the government.
He thanked the Prime Minister for NEP 2020 which has a provision for foreign universities to be a part of Indian education sector.
The five universities, he noted, have added immense value to the State and NEP 2020 has truly opened doors for top global institutions to establish campuses in India.
He stated that talented Indian students who faced accessibility and affordability issues in pursuing foreign education can now do so while remaining in the country at reduced costs.
(IANS)
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan said on Saturday that National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 envisions India as a global study destination, offering premium education at an affordable cost.
He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of positioning India as a global knowledge hub the country is encouraging top international universities to establish campuses here, while empowering Indian higher education institutions to expand globally.
He was speaking at an event titled ‘Mumbai Rising: Creating an International Education City’ held in Mumbai to issue Letters of Intent (LoIs) to five globally reputed universities from the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States of America and Italy.
The Minister said the establishment of the branch campuses of University of York, University of Aberdeen, University of Western Australia, Illinois Institute of Technology and Instituto Europeo Di Design (IED), Italy, reflects a deep and growing trust in India’s education ecosystem and is a major milestone as we mark five transformative years of the NEP 2020.
The handing of the LOIs took place in the presence of Chief Minister of Maharashtra Devendra Fadnavis, Minister of Higher and Technical Education, Government of Maharashtra, Chandrakant Patil, Principal Secretary, Government of Maharashtra, Aseem Gupta and Secretary, Department of Higher Education and Chairman, UGC, Dr Vineet Joshi.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that the swift issuance of LoIs reflects the speed and commitment of the government.
He thanked the Prime Minister for NEP 2020 which has a provision for foreign universities to be a part of Indian education sector.
The five universities, he noted, have added immense value to the State and NEP 2020 has truly opened doors for top global institutions to establish campuses in India.
He stated that talented Indian students who faced accessibility and affordability issues in pursuing foreign education can now do so while remaining in the country at reduced costs.
(IANS)
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday reaffirmed that national security remains a priority, making it clear that any attempt to threaten India’s sovereignty will be met with decisive action.
He underscored the government’s firm stance on protecting the nation’s interests. He also emphasised the importance of discipline, ideological commitment, and public service in shaping the future of the party and the nation.
He was addressing a gathering of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s MP-MLA Training Camp in the scenic hill station of Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh, on Saturday.
Addressing the gathering of over 200 party MPs, MLAs, ministers, and senior functionaries, HM Shah began his speech by paying tribute to former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijaybhai Rupani and others who lost their lives in the unfortunate plane crash in Ahmedabad.
He acknowledged the contributions of Rupani to the party and the nation, underscoring the BJP’s tradition of selfless service and unwavering commitment to its principles. Reflecting on the BJP’s legacy, Shah highlighted the contributions of leaders such as Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, LK Advani, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
He asserted that the BJP has consistently provided India with leaders of unwavering integrity and dedication. He outlined the vision of a secure, developed, and prosperous India, stating that the Modi government has been actively translating this vision into reality. Over the past 11 years, the government has lifted 26 crore people out of poverty, provided seven crore families with essential amenities, and extended financial assistance to farmers.
HM Shah also spoke about the BJP’s ideological consistency, stating that from its origins in the Jana Sangh to its present form, the party has remained steadfast in its principles. He expressed confidence that the BJP’s influence will continue to grow, ensuring its presence across the country. The Home Minister urged party workers to recognise that the respect they receive is not personal but a reflection of the party’s values. He encouraged them to remain committed to lifelong learning and to uphold the party’s mission of national service.
He traced the BJP’s journey from its foundation, recalling how Shyama Prasad Mukherjee resigned from the government in protest against policies that did not align with India’s cultural heritage. One of the key reasons for his resignation was the Nehru-Liaquat Pact, signed in 1950 between India and Pakistan to safeguard the rights of minorities in both countries.
Mukherjee strongly opposed the agreement, arguing that it failed to adequately protect Hindu minorities in Pakistan while placing undue obligations on India. His resignation marked a significant moment in the BJP’s ideological evolution, reinforcing its commitment to nationalism and cultural preservation.
HM Shah noted that the party, which began with just 11 members, has now grown to over 11 crore members. He reiterated that the BJP’s struggle has always been for principles rather than electoral victories, citing movements such as the fight against Article 370 and the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. He concluded by reaffirming the BJP’s commitment to Antyodaya, the philosophy of uplifting the poorest sections of society.
He highlighted the transformation of states once labelled as BIMARU—Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh—under BJP governance, demonstrating the effectiveness of decentralised development. The training camp continues with sessions designed to strengthen leadership skills and reinforce the party’s ideological foundation, preparing BJP representatives for future governance and electoral responsibilities.
(IANS)
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BISHKEK, June 15 (Xinhua) — The China-Central Asia Summit to be held in Astana, Kazakhstan, in June will be an important milestone in the development of strategic partnership between Central Asian countries and China, former rector of the Academy of Public Administration under the President of Kyrgyzstan Almazbek Akmataliev said in an interview with Xinhua.
According to him, the uniqueness of this mechanism is that Central Asia acts as a “single” political and economic actor in relations with China. “This allows us to jointly resolve common, major investment projects that are important for all Central Asian countries,” he said.
As Chairman of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Kyrgyzstan Ishak Masaliev told Xinhua, holding the China-Central Asia summit will be of great importance, since it is taking place in a special environment.
He noted that today the situation on the world stage is changing radically, the configuration and the decision-making center are changing. In his opinion, China and the Central Asian countries should develop a certain strategy that is beneficial for each country and for the region as a whole.
“In this regard, it seems to me that the attempts of the Chinese leadership are worthy of attention and respect. We must listen and, if possible, extract everything useful for our countries,” said I. Masaliev.
Speaking about China’s relations with the Central Asian countries, A. Akmataliev emphasized that China and the countries of the region have entered a new “golden thirty years” in their relations. “Over all these years, the relations of each Central Asian country with China are worthy of respect and imitation,” he said.
As I. Masaliev emphasized, “we can say with confidence that today China’s relations with all Central Asian countries have reached a completely new level.”
The expert also noted that now is the time to implement transcontinental and transnational projects. Such projects as the construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, the alternative North-South highway, etc., will improve the lives and well-being of citizens of both Kyrgyzstan and the countries of the region.
A. Akmataliev, in turn, pointed out that these projects are striking and impressive in their grandeur, scale, and great goals.
Touching upon Chinese-Kyrgyz relations, A. Akmataliev noted that the visit of Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov to China in February 2025 became a historic milestone in the relations between the Kyrgyz and Chinese peoples. “Our relations have risen to a real level of strategic partnership,” he said, adding that these relations have become an important example of true success, dynamics, sincerity and mutually beneficial cooperation.
“The relations between Kyrgyzstan and China, as well as the peoples of the two countries, are excellent, wonderful,” notes I. Masaliev, adding that the visit of the head of Kyrgyzstan to China and his meeting with the leader of the PRC in February of this year certainly brings enormous positive energy and a great contribution to the development of the economies of the two countries. –0–
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
NEW DELHI, June 15 (Xinhua) — A helicopter flying from Dehradun to Kedarnath crashed near Gaurikunda in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, local media reported on Saturday, citing police sources.
There were reportedly five or six people on board the helicopter when it crashed. The weather in the Kedarnath valley was extremely bad.
Rescue teams were rushed to the scene to search for survivors. –0–
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
URUMQI, June 15 (Xinhua) — Karasu Port, located in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, is the only land port on the border between China and Tajikistan. In recent years, it has become an important gateway for exchanges and cooperation between the two countries.
The dynamic development of bilateral trade through the Karasu checkpoint is the embodiment of the rapid growth of pragmatic cooperation within the framework of the joint construction of the “Belt and Road”.
The data show that there was a significant increase in the number of people and vehicles entering and leaving China through the Karasu Port in January-May 2025. In particular, the number of commercial vehicles exported through the Karasu Port during the reporting period jumped 102.4 percent to 9,096 units.
A wide range of Chinese goods, including new energy vehicles, large-scale equipment and construction machinery, are exported to Tajikistan and other countries through the Karasu checkpoint.
“Trade between China and Tajikistan has opened up new opportunities for me,” said Eliasjiang, a driver from the city of Kashgar, adding that his income has also increased due to the increased demand for cargo transportation.
Shavkat Gulaezov, a businessman from Tajikistan, frequently travels between Dushanbe and Xinjiang.
“Electronic products and NEV vehicles from China are particularly popular among Tajik consumers,” he said, adding that convenient customs clearance procedures at checkpoints have strengthened the confidence of Tajik businessmen in the prospects for economic and trade cooperation between the two countries.
Data shows that the trade volume between China and Tajikistan doubled between 2013 and 2023. Bilateral trade turnover reached $3.926 billion in 2023.
The Karasu checkpoint is not only a busy trade channel, but also a bridge of friendship connecting the peoples of China and Tajikistan and carrying the dream of joint development.
Sun Hui, a professor at Xinjiang University, said that with high-quality development and the continuous expansion of trade channels, the Karasu port will give strong impetus to deepening trade and economic cooperation between China and Central Asia. -0-
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
President Donald Trump’s long-sought military parade rolled though the streets of downtown Washington on Saturday, but the celebration of the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary was marred by a day of violence and discord.
In the hours before the parade began, hundreds of thousands of Americans marched and rallied in streets in cities from New York to Chicago to Los Angeles, protesting Trump’s actions while in office, in the largest such actions since his return to power in January.
Earlier in the day, a gunman assassinated a Democratic lawmaker and wounded another in Minnesota and remained at large.
Meanwhile, Israel and Iran exchanged further attacks early on Sunday, stoking fears of a mushrooming conflict between the two nations.
All of it followed a week of tension in Los Angeles, where protests over federal immigration raids resulted in Trump calling in National Guard troops and U.S. Marines to help keep the peace, over the objections of the state’s Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom.
The parade, which fell on Trump’s 79th birthday, kicked off earlier than expected with thunderstorms forecast in the Washington area.
Tanks, armored personnel carriers and artillery rumbled down the parade route along storied Constitution Avenue, an unusual sight in the U.S. where such displays of military might are rare.
“Every other country celebrates their victories, it’s about time America did too,” Trump told the crowd following the parade.
Thousands of spectators lined up along the route. Trump watched the proceedings from an elevated viewing stand behind bulletproof glass.
Some of the president’s opponents also managed to find a spot along the parade route, holding signs in protest. Other demonstrators were kept separate from the parade crowd by local police.
The U.S. Army has brought nearly 7,000 troops into Washington, along with 150 vehicles, including more than 25 M1 Abrams tanks, 28 Stryker armored vehicles, four Paladin self-propelled artillery vehicles, and artillery pieces including the M777 and M119.
ARMY’S HISTORY
The parade traced the history of the Army from its founding during the Revolutionary War through modern day. Trump frequently stood and saluted troops as they marched by.
Members of Trump’s cabinet including Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio looked on.
Trump had first expressed interest in a military parade in Washington early in his first 2017-2021 term in office.
In 1991, tanks and thousands of troops paraded through Washington to celebrate the ousting of Iraqi President Saddam Hussein’s forces from Kuwait in the Gulf War.
The celebrations were expected to cost the U.S. Army between $25 million and $45 million, U.S. officials have told Reuters. That includes the parade itself as well as the cost of moving equipment and housing and feeding the troops.
Critics have called the parade an authoritarian display of power that is wasteful, especially given Trump has said he wants to slash costs throughout the federal government.
Bryan Henrie, a Trump supporter, flew in from Texas to celebrate the Army’s anniversary and did not see any issues with tanks rolling down the streets of Washington.
“I don’t see a controversy. I will celebrate safety and stability any day over anarchy,” 61-year-old Henrie said.
‘SHAME! SHAME!’
Earlier in the day, thousands marched in Washington and other cities in protest of Trump’s policies. The demonstrations were largely peaceful, and marked the largest outpouring of opposition to Trump’s presidency since he returned to power in January.
In Los Angeles, however, the situation remained tense. About an hour before a downtown curfew, police officers mounted on horses were aggressively pushing back demonstrators, using gas, flash bangs and other less lethal munitions, causing large groups to panic and flee.
Protesters were firing what police called commercial-grade fireworks against officers, along with rocks and bottles. Some demonstrators wore gas masks and helmets and vowed to stay in the area for many more hours.
A crowd earlier had confronted soldiers guarding a federal building, yelling “Shame! Shame!” and “Marines, get out of LA!”
Anti-Trump groups planned nearly 2,000 demonstrations across the country to coincide with the parade. Many took place under the theme “No Kings,” asserting that no individual is above the law.
Thousands of people of all ages turned out in and around Bryant Park in Midtown Manhattan, many carrying homemade signs that played off the “No Kings” theme. “No crown for a clown,” said one. Actor Mark Ruffalo was among the demonstrators, wearing a hat that read “immigrant.”
“We’re seeing dehumanizing language towards LGBT people, towards people with autism, towards people with other disabilities, racial minorities, undocumented people,” said Cooper Smith, 20, from upstate New York. “Somebody’s got to show that most Americans are against this.”
Protesters in downtown Chicago stood off against police on Saturday, with some waving upside-down American flags and chanting: “Who do you protect? Who do you serve?” and “No justice, no peace.”
Members of the far-right Proud Boys, ardent Trump supporters, appeared at an Atlanta “No Kings” protest, wearing the group’s distinctive black and yellow colors.
About 400 protesters, organized by a group called RefuseFascism.org, marched through Washington and gathered for a rally in a park opposite the White House. Trump had warned people against protesting at the parade itself, saying that “they’re going to be met with very big force.”
Sunsara Taylor, a founder of RefuseFascism, told the crowd, “Today we refuse to accept Donald Trump unleashing the military against the people of this country and in the streets of this country. We say, ‘Hell no.’”
(Reuters)
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
Israel and Iran launched fresh attacks on each other overnight into Sunday, stoking fears of a wider conflict after Israel expanded its surprise campaign against its main rival with a strike on the world’s biggest gas field.
Tehran called off nuclear talks that Washington had said were the only way to halt Israel’s bombing, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the attacks were nothing compared with what Iran would see in the coming days.
The latest wave of Iranian attacks began shortly after 11:00 p.m. on Saturday (2000 GMT), when air raid sirens blared in Jerusalem and Haifa, sending around a million people into bomb shelters.
Around 2:30 a.m. local time (2330 GMT Saturday), the Israeli military warned of another incoming missile barrage and urged residents to seek shelter. Explosions echoed through Tel Aviv and Jerusalem as missiles streaked across the skies as interceptor rockets were launched in response. The military lifted its shelter-in-place advisory nearly an hour after issuing the warning.
The ambulance service said at least seven people were killed overnight, including a 10-year-old boy and a woman in her 20s, and more than 140 injured in multiple attacks.
Search and rescue worked combed through the rubble of residential buildings destroyed in multiple strikes, using flashlights and dogs to look for survivors.
Israeli media said at least 35 people were missing after a strike hit Bat Yam, a city south of Tel Aviv. A spokesperson for the emergency services said a missile hit an 8-storey building there and while many people were rescued, there were fatalities.
It was unclear how many buildings were hit overnight.
So far, at least nine people in Israel have been killed and over 300 others injured since Iran launched its retaliatory attacks on Friday.
Iran has said 78 people were killed there on the first day of Israel’s campaign, and scores more on the second, including 60 when a missile brought down a 14-storey apartment block in Tehran, where 29 of the dead were children.
The Shahran oil depot in Tehran was targeted in an Israeli attack, Iran said, but added the situation was under control. A fire had erupted after an Israeli attack on an oil refinery near the capital while Israeli strikes also targeted Iran’s defence ministry building, causing minor damage, the semi-official Tasnim news agency said on Sunday.
U.S. President Donald Trump had warned Iran of worse to come, but said it was not too late to halt the Israeli campaign if Tehran accepted a sharp downgrading of its nuclear programme.
A round of U.S.-Iran nuclear talks that was due to be held in Oman on Sunday was cancelled, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi saying the discussions could not take place while Iran was being subjected to Israel’s “barbarous” attacks.
GAS FIELD ATTACK
In the first apparent attack to hit Iran’s energy infrastructure, Tasnim news agency said Iran partially suspended production at South Pars, the world’s biggest gas field, after an Israeli strike caused a fire there on Saturday.
The South Pars field, offshore in Iran’s southern Bushehr province, is the source of most of the gas produced in Iran.
Fears about potential disruption to the region’s oil exports had already driven up oil prices 9% on Friday even though Israel spared Iran’s oil and gas on the first day of its attacks.
An Iranian general, Esmail Kosari, said on Saturday that Tehran was reviewing whether to close the Strait of Hormuz controlling access to the Gulf for tankers.
With Israel saying its operation could last weeks, and Netanyahu urging Iran’s people to rise up against their Islamic clerical rulers, fears have grown of a regional conflagration dragging in outside powers.
B’Tselem, a leading Israeli human rights organization, said on Saturday that instead of exhausting all possibilities for a diplomatic resolution, Israel’s government had chosen to start a war that puts the entire region in danger.
Tehran has warned Israel’s allies that their military bases in the region would come under fire too if they helped shoot down Iranian missiles.
However, 20 months of war in Gaza and a conflict in Lebanon last year have decimated Tehran’s strongest regional proxies, Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, reducing its options for retaliation.
Israel sees Iran’s nuclear programme as a threat to its existence, and said the bombardment was designed to avert the last steps to production of a nuclear weapon.
Tehran insists the programme is entirely civilian and that it does not seek an atomic bomb. The U.N. nuclear watchdog, however, reported Iran this week as violating obligations under the global non-proliferation treaty.
(Reuters)
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday released an official statement before embarking on the three-nation tour of Cyprus, Canada and Croatia. He said this is an opportunity to galvanise global understanding on tackling terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
PM Modi shared on X: “Today, I will embark on a three-nation tour to the Republic of Cyprus, Canada and Croatia. On June 15-16, I will visit the Republic of Cyprus at the invitation of President Nikos Christodoulides. Cyprus is a close friend and an important partner in the Mediterranean region and the EU. The visit provides an opportunity to build upon the historical bonds and expand our ties in the areas of trade, investment, security, technology and promote people-to-people exchanges.”
“From Cyprus, I will travel to Kananaskis, Canada, to attend the G7 Summit at the invitation of Prime Minister Mark Carney,” said the PM.
PM Modi said that the Summit will provide space for exchange of views on pressing global issues and the priorities of the Global South and he is also looking forward to engaging with leaders from partner countries.
“On June 18, I look forward to my visit to the Republic of Croatia and meetings with President Zoran Milanovic and Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic. Both our countries enjoy centuries-old close cultural links. As the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Croatia, it will open new avenues for bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest. This three-nation tour is also an opportunity to thank partner countries for their steadfast support to India in our fight against cross-border terrorism, and to galvanise global understanding on tackling terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” PM Modi said.
PM Modi’s visit to Cyprus will be the first by an Indian Prime Minister in more than two decades.
“I will be attending the G7 Summit in Canada, which will give a great platform to exchange perspectives on various global issues and elaborate on the priorities of the Global South,” PM Modi said earlier on X.
“My visit to Croatia, which will be the first ever by an Indian Prime Minister, presents a historical opportunity to boost linkages with a valued partner country,” added PM Modi.
Manish, High Commissioner of India to Cyprus, said, “The visit is going to be a historic visit for several reasons. It is after over two decades that a Prime Minister from our country is coming, and this would be the first visit of the Prime Minister (Modi) to this country… I think the most significant outcomes will be in trade, technology, tourism and investment. We will also discuss defence and security cooperation, business and people-to-people contact as well as global and regional discussions…”
In Nicosia, PM Modi will hold talks with Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides and address business leaders in Limassol.
Cyprus had condemned the Pahalgam terror attack and indicated that it would raise the issue of cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan at the EU-level discussions.
The visit will be timely as Cyprus is set to take over the Presidency of the Council of the EU in the first half of 2026.
The visit will reaffirm the shared commitment of the two countries to deepen bilateral ties and strengthen India’s engagement with the Mediterranean region and the European Union, as per the MEA.
The visit to Cyprus is significant also as it comes in the middle of India’s tensions with Turkey over the latter’s support to Pakistan.
Ankara’s recognition of the so-called Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in the northern region that was seized by Turkish forces in 1974 and differences over gas exploration rights in the Eastern Mediterranean remain a constant source of tensions between Turkey and Cyprus.
PM Modi will participate in the G7 Summit in Canada’s Kananaskis on June 16 to 17, and conclude the five-day visit with an official visit to Croatia on June 18.
At the G7 summit, PM Modi will come face-to-face with US President Donald Trump for the first time since their meeting in February 2025.
“At the summit, the PM will exchange views with leaders of G7 countries, other invited outreach countries and heads of international organisations on crucial global issues, including energy security, technology and innovation, particularly the AI-energy nexus and Quantum-related issues,” said the government in its announcement.
The Prime Minister’s Croatia visit on June 18 will be the first ever visit by an Indian PM, marking an important milestone in the bilateral relationship.
“The visit to Croatia will also underscore India’s commitment to further strengthening its engagement with partners in the European Union,” said the government.
(With inputs from IANS)
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
After a prolonged spell of scorching temperatures for several days, people in the national capital received a gradual respite from heatwave conditions on Sunday, as several parts of the city experienced light rainfall, thunderstorm and strong winds.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a severe thunderstorm and strong winds for the city, advising residents in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) to stay indoors.
According to the IMD, “Moderate to intense spell of rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning, and squally winds reaching speeds of 80-100 kmph” swept through the capital during the early Sunday hours.
Two thunder squalls along with hailstorm activity were recorded at Safdarjung between 0348 to 0350 hrs IST and 0358 to 0400 hrs IST.
The first squall saw gusty winds reaching 82 kmph, while the second saw a peak wind speed of 104 kmph, said the IMD.
The weather department urged residents to take precautions.
“Stay indoors and avoid travel unless necessary,” the IMD advisory said, as flying debris and low visibility posed risks on the roads.
The Safdarjung observatory, Delhi’s official weather station, recorded a maximum temperature of 41.2 degrees Celsius on Friday – a dip of 2.7 degrees from Thursday, but still 1.3 degrees Celsius above normal. The minimum temperature remained high at 31.0 degrees Celsius, marking a departure of 3 degrees Celsius from the seasonal average. Humidity levels oscillated between 51 per cent and 69 per cent, making conditions hot and uncomfortable throughout the day.
According to IMD officials, the national capital is set to witness generally cloudy skies with very light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, dust storms, and lightning till June 19. Gusty winds are also expected during thunderstorms.
This comes after a red alert – a severe warning – was issued for Delhi, as the capital experienced extreme heatwave conditions. Daytime temperatures climbed to between 41°C and 45°C, while the minimum temperature reached 31°C, marking a rise of four degrees above the seasonal average.
The weather department has predicted partly cloudy skies with a chance of a thunderstorm and rain early Sunday morning, potentially bringing some relief from the intense heat.
The IMD, in its extended range forecast, has said that the southwest monsoon is likely to advance over the remaining parts of central and eastern India, along with some areas in northwest India, between June 12 and 18. It is further expected to reach most parts of northwest India, including Delhi, between June 19 and 25.
The normal date for the monsoon to arrive in Delhi is around June 30.
This year, it arrived in Kerala on May 24 – well ahead of the usual onset date of 1 June – and reached Mumbai by May 26, which is 16 days earlier than normal.
According to IMD data, the monsoon reached Delhi on June 28 last year, and on June 26 in 2023.
In previous years, it arrived on June 30 (2022), July 13 (2021), and June 25 (2020).
After a nearly 10-day pause, the monsoon has picked up pace again, especially over southern India.
Since Wednesday, several parts of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Konkan, and Maharashtra have been receiving heavy to very heavy rainfall. This renewed activity marks a strong push northwards, indicating rapid progress of the monsoon across the country.
The IMD has also said the second phase of the monsoon is expected to spread across eastern India, bringing rainfall to West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh within the next week.
(With inputs from IANS)
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
After a prolonged spell of scorching temperatures for several days, people in the national capital received a gradual respite from heatwave conditions on Sunday, as several parts of the city experienced light rainfall, thunderstorm and strong winds.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a severe thunderstorm and strong winds for the city, advising residents in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) to stay indoors.
According to the IMD, “Moderate to intense spell of rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning, and squally winds reaching speeds of 80-100 kmph” swept through the capital during the early Sunday hours.
Two thunder squalls along with hailstorm activity were recorded at Safdarjung between 0348 to 0350 hrs IST and 0358 to 0400 hrs IST.
The first squall saw gusty winds reaching 82 kmph, while the second saw a peak wind speed of 104 kmph, said the IMD.
The weather department urged residents to take precautions.
“Stay indoors and avoid travel unless necessary,” the IMD advisory said, as flying debris and low visibility posed risks on the roads.
The Safdarjung observatory, Delhi’s official weather station, recorded a maximum temperature of 41.2 degrees Celsius on Friday – a dip of 2.7 degrees from Thursday, but still 1.3 degrees Celsius above normal. The minimum temperature remained high at 31.0 degrees Celsius, marking a departure of 3 degrees Celsius from the seasonal average. Humidity levels oscillated between 51 per cent and 69 per cent, making conditions hot and uncomfortable throughout the day.
According to IMD officials, the national capital is set to witness generally cloudy skies with very light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, dust storms, and lightning till June 19. Gusty winds are also expected during thunderstorms.
This comes after a red alert – a severe warning – was issued for Delhi, as the capital experienced extreme heatwave conditions. Daytime temperatures climbed to between 41°C and 45°C, while the minimum temperature reached 31°C, marking a rise of four degrees above the seasonal average.
The weather department has predicted partly cloudy skies with a chance of a thunderstorm and rain early Sunday morning, potentially bringing some relief from the intense heat.
The IMD, in its extended range forecast, has said that the southwest monsoon is likely to advance over the remaining parts of central and eastern India, along with some areas in northwest India, between June 12 and 18. It is further expected to reach most parts of northwest India, including Delhi, between June 19 and 25.
The normal date for the monsoon to arrive in Delhi is around June 30.
This year, it arrived in Kerala on May 24 – well ahead of the usual onset date of 1 June – and reached Mumbai by May 26, which is 16 days earlier than normal.
According to IMD data, the monsoon reached Delhi on June 28 last year, and on June 26 in 2023.
In previous years, it arrived on June 30 (2022), July 13 (2021), and June 25 (2020).
After a nearly 10-day pause, the monsoon has picked up pace again, especially over southern India.
Since Wednesday, several parts of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Konkan, and Maharashtra have been receiving heavy to very heavy rainfall. This renewed activity marks a strong push northwards, indicating rapid progress of the monsoon across the country.
The IMD has also said the second phase of the monsoon is expected to spread across eastern India, bringing rainfall to West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh within the next week.
(With inputs from IANS)
ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on June 15, 2025.
NZ’s Islamic Council calls on Luxon to condemn Israel over ‘unprovoked’ military strikes
Asia Pacific Report The Islamic Council of New Zealand (ICONZ) has protested over Israel’s “unprovoked military strikes” against Iran, killing at least 80 people — 20 of them children, and called on the NZ government to publicly condemn Israeli’s actions. An open letter to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, read out to a Palestine rally in
A video like no other – why the Israeli military revealed its own failure
By Ramzy Baroud and Romana Rubeo Unlike the Palestinian message, the Israeli message is not global, but very much a localised cry for help — get us out of Gaza. This is not your typical video. The event itself might be similar to numerous other events in Gaza — a fighter emerging from a tunnel,
Twyford condemns weak action by NZ over Israel’s ‘ruthless’ apartheid
Asia Pacific Report Labour MP for Te Atatu Phil Twyford criticised the New Zealand government today for failing to take stronger action against Israel over its genocide and starvation strategy in Gaza, saying that NZ should implement comprehensive sanctions and recognise Palestine. Speaking at a rally in Henderson organised by the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa
As war breaks out with Israel, Iran has run out of good options
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ali Mamouri, Research Fellow, Middle East Studies, Deakin University The scale of Israel’s strikes on multiple, sensitive Iranian military and nuclear sites on Friday was unprecedented. It was the biggest attack on Iran since the Iran–Iraq War in the 1980s. As expected, Iran responded swiftly, even as
ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for June 14, 2025
ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on June 14, 2025.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Employers and employees should make prior work arrangements in times of tropical cyclones and rainstorms
“In drawing up and implementing the work arrangements and contingency measures
To avoid misunderstandings, disputes and confusion, employers should consult and engage employees when drawing up the arrangements and make appropriate updates or amendments based on the experience of each occasion and the needs of both employers and employees, as well as the actual situations. The work arrangements should cover the following matters:
* arrangements in respect of reporting for duty;
* arrangements in respect of early release from work;
* arrangements in respect of resumption of work (e.g. the number of hours within which employees should resume duty after the warning concerned is cancelled or when the extreme conditions come to an end, and when safety and traffic conditions allow);
* arrangements in respect of remote work such as work from home (if applicable) (e.g. duty and work arrangements during and after tropical cyclone warnings, rainstorm warnings or extreme conditions);
* arrangements regarding working hours, wages and allowances (e.g. calculation of wages and allowances in respect of reporting for duty and absence); and
* special arrangements in respect of staff required to report for duty in times of adverse weather and extreme conditions.
“Employers should conduct a timely and realistic assessment of whether there is any need for requiring staff to report for duty at workplaces
When a Pre-No. 8 Special Announcement is issued during working hours, within two hours before the Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 is expected to take effect, employers should release employees from workplaces or from work in stages or arrange for them to work remotely according to the agreed work arrangements. To ensure the safety of employees and to enable them to arrive home before suspension of public transport services, employees who have mobility problems (for example, pregnant employees or those with a disability), employees who rely on transport services which are prone to being affected by adverse weather conditions (for example, ferry services) to get home, and those who work in or are living in remote areas (for example, outlying islands) should be given priority to leave. Other employees should be released from workplaces or from work in stages according to their travelling distance or the time required for returning home.
If an Amber, Red or Black Rainstorm Warning Signal is issued during working hours, employees working indoors should continue to work as usual unless it is dangerous to do so. Supervisors of employees working outdoors or in exposed areas should suspend outdoor duties as soon as practicable. They should arrange for their employees to take shelter temporarily and resume duty only when weather conditions permit. If the Black Rainstorm Warning Signal is still in force by the end of working hours, employees should stay in a safe place until the heavy rain has passed. A suitable area in the workplace should be made available by employers as temporary shelter for employees.
If it is necessary for employees to report for duty at workplaces under adverse weather or extreme conditions, employers should discuss and agree with them in advance on the duty arrangements and contingency measures. If public transport services are suspended or limited when Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 (T8) or higher, Black Rainstorm Warning Signal or extreme conditions are in force, employers should provide safe transport services for employees travelling to and from workplaces, or grant them an extra travelling allowance.
The spokesman also reminded employers to observe the statutory liabilities and requirements under the Employment Ordinance, Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance, Factories and Industrial Undertakings Ordinance, Employees’ Compensation Ordinance and Minimum Wage Ordinance.
“As natural calamities cannot be avoided, for employees who are not able to report for duty or resume work on time due to adverse weather or extreme conditions, employers should neither deduct their wages, good attendance bonuses or allowances, nor reduce employees’ entitlement to annual leave, statutory holidays or rest days under the Employment Ordinance, or ask for additional hours of work from employees to compensate for the loss of working hours when they are unable to report for duty,” he said.
Employers should note that they have an obligation to provide and maintain a safe working environment for their employees under the Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance. If employees are required to work in times of tropical cyclone warnings, rainstorm warnings or extreme conditions, employers should ensure that the risks at work are reduced as far as reasonably practicable. Moreover, under the Employees’ Compensation Ordinance, employers are liable to pay compensation for injuries or deaths incurred when employees are travelling by a direct route from their residence to their workplace, or from their workplace back to their residence after work, four hours before or after working hours on a day when there is a T8 signal or higher, a Red or Black Rainstorm Warning Signal or extreme conditions are in force.
The LD has published the “Code of Practice in Times of Adverse Weather and ‘Extreme Conditions’”, which provides the major principles, reference guidelines and information on relevant legislation on making work arrangements for the reference of employers and employees. The booklet can be obtained from branch offices of the Labour Relations Division or downloaded from the department’s webpage (www.labour.gov.hk/eng/public/wcp/Rainstorm.pdfIssued at HKT 12:20
NNNN
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
​As the Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 3 will be issued by the Hong Kong Observatory, the “ICH Infinity∞” Fun Day held at the Hong Kong Intangible Cultural Heritage Centre (at Sam Tung Uk Museum, Tsuen Wan) today (June 14) will be temporarily suspended in the afternoon. Members of the public are advised not to visit.
Depending on the weather condition, the “ICH Infinity∞” Fun Day may re-open where circumstances permit. Please pay attention to the relevant news announcement.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, attended Viva Technology 2025 (VivaTech) in Paris, France, yesterday (June 13, Paris time). In his keynote speech at a seminar and networking reception themed “From Hong Kong to the World: Embarking on the New Journey of Innovation” organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Professor Sun said Hong Kong is forging ahead with a clear vision to develop as an international innovation and technology (I&T) centre, and is committed to pushing boundaries, embracing change, and seizing global opportunities.
Professor Sun said the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has been introducing agile policies, building world-class infrastructure and facilitating global I&T collaboration. He noted the flagship research and development (R&D) initiative, InnoHK, fosters global R&D collaboration. Hong Kong is also carrying out meticulous planning for building artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem, including AI Supercomputing Centre opened last year and the Hong Kong AI Research and Development Institute to be established, together with $10 billion dollars-worth Innovation and Technology Industry-Oriented Fund channeling more market capital to turbocharge strategic industries, with AI at the core.
Highlighting that Hong Kong being an ideal gateway for global enterprises to enter the Mainland market, Professor Sun said the HKSAR Government has been actively attracting overseas and the Mainland I&T enterprises to set up or expand their businesses in Hong Kong. Companies choosing HK for the international headquarters exemplify Hong Kong’s important role as a “super connector” and a “super value-adder” between Mainland China and the rest of the world, serving as a two-way springboard for attracting overseas enterprises and helping Mainland enterprises to “go global”.
During the seminar and networking reception, Professor Sun also exchanged views with members of the local I&T sector, investors and start-ups’ founders on I&T development and collaboration.
Professor Sun also visited the Hong Kong Tech Pavilion. Twenty start-ups from the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation and Cyberport participated this year, showcasing cutting-edge solutions and innovations in areas of AI, robotics, HealthTech, sustainable and ClimateTech, and Fintech. At the same time, Professor Sun toured the Canada Pavilion set up by Canada which was selected as country of the year for VivaTech 2025, the China Pavilion and pavilions set up by other leading enterprises and start-ups where he had a brief exchange with representatives of the participating organisations to learn more on their innovative solutions.
In the evening, Professor Sun met with Mr Emmanuel Carcassonne, the Chairman of La French Tech Hong Kong-Shenzhen, a community dedicated to supporting the development of the French startup ecosystem both in France and internationally. Professor Sun said that Hong Kong is a reliable partner for French startups to settle and expand businesses in Hong Kong.
In the afternoon, Professor Sun paid a courtesy call on Minister Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in France Mr Chen Li, to brief him on the work of developing Hong Kong into an international I&T centre, enhancing the I&T ecosystem, fostering co-ordinated development among upstream, midstream and downstream, as well as the city’s continuous efforts in integrating into national I&T development.
Professor Sun will continue his visit to Paris today (June 14, Paris time) and depart for the Netherlands on June 15 (Amsterdam time).
Source: United States Small Business Administration
ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Florida who sustained economic losses caused by the drought beginning May 6.
The disaster declaration covers the counties of Charlotte, DeSoto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Indian River, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Martin, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota, St. Lucie and Sumter.
Under this declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.
“Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”
The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.62% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 2, 2026.
###
About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
The Government launched the first batch of low-altitude economy (LAE) Regulatory Sandbox pilot projects in March and these projects are being rolled out progressively.
Drone drill
Under the framework of the sandbox pilot projects, CLP Power’s drone team began a beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) pilot scheme to inspect overhead lines at a test site in Sai Wan in Sai Kung.
CLP Power Principal Manager – Logistics & Transport Edward Chan said under the LAE Regulatory Sandbox pilot projects, the Civil Aviation Department (CAD) has relaxed the existing restriction on BVLOS operations to allow a drone to fly beyond a pilot’s line of sight.
“We submitted four inspection routes to the Government, covering overhead line facilities in some sparsely populated areas and also urban districts.
“In April, we began the BVLOS operation in one of the pilot sites, which is in Sai Wan of Sai Kung. We carried out a test flight under different scenarios, including manual operation by remote pilots and also automated inspection of our outdoor power facilities. Although Sai Wan is relatively remote, but the signal reception during the trial was smooth.”
Safety first
The company has an extensive power transmission and high-voltage distribution network. Overhead lines are in particular more vulnerable to extreme weather and environmental conditions.
In view of increasing extreme weather events, the company has stepped up drone inspections of outdoor power facilities to ensure a stable power supply.
Mr Chan explained that most of the company’s outdoor transmission lines and towers are located in remote areas. Each team of engineering staff used to carry out inspections by patrols, covering an average of only around 5km a day, but with the use of drones, they expect a more than four-fold increase in the efficiency of inspections.
“For emergencies and severe weather conditions, BVLOS operations are particularly crucial because a fallen tree, landslides or road blockages might prevent our engineering staff from reaching the affected area.
“With the use of BVLOS operations, our engineering staff can operate drones from a safe location, quickly assess the equipment and components in remote areas and hazardous areas, so it can significantly improve the efficiency of maintenance work and also reduce the impact on customers.”
Law change
To promote the development of Hong Kong’s low-altitude economy, the Government has started work in various areas, including legislative amendments.
CAD Operations Officer Nicole Law noted that to tap into the potential of heavier small unmanned aircraft (SUA) the Government is now working to amend the current SUA Order to add a new Category C aircraft to cover unmanned aircraft weighing more than 25kg but not more than 150kg.
“At the same time, provisions will be introduced in the Air Navigation (Hong Kong) Order 1995 to facilitate the trials of various unconventional aircraft in Hong Kong, such as unmanned aircraft weighing over 150kg, so that the emerging technologies for LAE can be trialled under specified conditions, provided that aviation safety requirements are met.”
The amendments to the Small Unmanned Aircraft Order and the Air Navigation (Hong Kong) Order 1995 were published in the Gazette on May 23 and the legislative amendment proposals were tabled in the Legislative Council on May 28. It is expected that both amendments will come into effect in mid-July 2025, she added.