NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI: Indonesia Energy Provides Update on its Strategic Vision and Dedication to the Future of Energy Development in Indonesia

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Follow IEC’s vision through its multi-weekly updates on LinkedIn and its website

    JAKARTA, INDONESIA AND DANVILLE, CA, May 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Indonesia Energy Corporation (NYSE American: INDO) (“IEC”), an oil and gas exploration and production company focused on Indonesia, issued today a letter to shareholders from the company’s senior management outlining IEC’s strategic vision and dedication to playing a key role in energy development in Indonesia as well as the country’s future in general.

    You can follow IEC’s vision through its multi-weekly updates on LinkedIn or at our website at the following link: https://ir.indo-energy.com/linkedin-updates/

    “Dear Fellow Indonesia Energy Shareholders:

    We are pleased to share an important update in the evolution of Indonesia Energy Corporation’s corporate vision, one that reaffirms our commitment to the future of Indonesia and complements our company’s role in supporting energy, resources, and sustainable growth for this dynamic region.

    Since our inception, IEC has remained committed to delivering energy security through our oil and gas exploration and production activities. While these core operations will continue to be a fundamental part of our strategy, we recognize that the definition of energy must evolve to meet the demands of a changing world, particularly in Indonesia.

    The time has come for IEC to expand our vision beyond traditional hydrocarbons and embrace a broader, more sustainable portfolio. This strategic focus will position IEC to unlock new value, enhance resilience, and capitalize on emerging opportunities in sectors that are inherently interconnected with energy.

    INDONESIA ENERGY: The Energy Driving Indonesia’s Future

    Indonesia, the world’s fourth most populous nation, is undergoing a demographic, economic, and technological transformation. With over 280 million people, nearly 70% under the age of 45, and an economy that has grown around 5% annually, the nation is on a clear path to becoming a growing force on the world stage.

    The government of Indonesia’s “Golden Indonesia 2045” vision aspires to position Indonesia among the world’s top five economies. To achieve this, the country is focusing on three fundamental pillars: energy, technology, and food security—the very elements that define human civilization and economic success.

    For IEC to play an important role in this transformation, we must recognize that energy is more than just oil and gas—it is the foundation of all progress. Throughout history, economies have grown, industries have thrived, and societies have advanced by harnessing energy in its many forms. But at its core, all energy that drives life and industry can be traced back to a single source—the Sun. From oil and gas to wind, hydropower, and even the food we eat, nearly all forms of energy originate from the Sun’s immense power. Fossil fuels are simply solar energy stored in organic matter over millions of years, while bioenergy, agriculture, and even wind patterns exist because of the Sun’s influence. Hydropower is made possible by the water cycle, driven by solar radiation. In essence, the energy that sustains economies, fuels innovation, and supports communities is a continuous transformation of sunlight into different usable forms.

    There are few exceptions, including deep geothermal energy, nuclear power, and tidal forces, which arise from the Earth’s internal heat, atomic forces, and the gravitational pull of the Moon and Sun. Yet, for nearly everything else, it is the Sun that provides the energy that shapes our world.

    This perspective reinforces IEC’s evolving mission. We are not just an oil and gas company; we are part of the larger system that transforms energy into progress, innovation, and prosperity in Indonesia. Our role is to harness and direct this energy—where it is needed most—to power Indonesia’s future. By embracing a new definition of energy, IEC is positioning itself at the heart of Indonesia’s transformation into a global economic power. As the country continues to grow, innovate, and secure its future, IEC will be there—as the energy that enables this progress.

    This is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter for IEC. Our evolving corporate vision will seek to accomplish three main goals:

    • First, our particular focus on supporting the future of Indonesia, which positions us as the purest U.S. public company play on Indonesia.
    • Second, our continuing drive to efficiently, effectively and sustainably develop and capitalize on our current oil and gas assets in Indonesia, Kruh and Citarum, which efforts have the strong support of the Government of Indonesia.
    • Finally, our passion for the future of Indonesia is leading us to explore other ways we can invest in the country’s infrastructure, whether that be energy related or other initiatives that we have the ability support given our management’s deep ties to Indonesia. We believe the potential to diversify our energy or other revenue streams will not only help Indonesia but also create the potential to drive value for our shareholders. We plan on sharing more details as this year unfolds and as our strategies solidify.

    Meanwhile, even as we are contemplating our expansion, this week we will be providing important updates on our key oil and gas assets, including an approximate 60% increase in proved reserves in our Kruh Block and the exciting results from a just competed geochemical survey on our potential billion-barrel equivalent Citarum Block, where we have a path to potentially move directly to drilling operations.

    We remain excited about our business and the future of Indonesia, so stay tuned for more details. Thank you as always for your continued trust and support,

    Sincerely,

    Dr Wirawan Jusuf, Chairman & CEO
    Frank Ingriselli, President
    James Huang, Director and Chief Investment Officer”

    About Indonesia Energy Corporation Limited

    Indonesia Energy Corporation Limited (NYSE American: INDO) is a publicly traded energy company engaged in the acquisition and development of strategic, high growth energy projects in Indonesia. IEC’s principal assets are its Kruh Block (63,000 acres) located onshore on the Island of Sumatra in Indonesia and its Citarum Block (195,000 acres) located onshore on the Island of Java in Indonesia. IEC is headquartered in Jakarta, Indonesia and has a representative office in Danville, California. For more information on IEC, please visit www.indo-energy.com.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    All statements in this press release, and related statements of Indonesia Energy Corporation Limited (“IEC”) and its management that are not based on historical fact are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and the provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Acts”). In particular, the words “potential,” “could,” “estimates,” “believes,” “hopes,” “expects,” “intends,” “future”, “plans,” “anticipates,” or “may,” and similar conditional expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Acts and are subject to the safe harbor created by the Acts. Any statements made in this news release other than those of historical fact, about an action, event or development, are forward-looking statements. In this press release, forward-looking statements include, without imitation those related to IEC’s future strategic plans, including its plans for drilling at Kruh Block at Citarum Block, as well as any future evolution in IEC’s business vision and strategies. While management has based any forward-looking statements contained herein on its current expectations, the information on which such expectations were based may change. These forward-looking statements rely on a number of assumptions concerning future events and are subject to a number of significant risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are outside of the IEC’s control, that could cause actual results to materially and adversely differ from such statements. Such risks, uncertainties, and other factors include, but are not necessarily limited to, those set forth in the Risk Factors section of the Company’s annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, filed on April 29, 2025, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Copies are of such documents are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov and IEC’s website at https://ir.indo-energy.com/sec-filings/. IEC undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.

    Company Contact:

    Frank C. Ingriselli
    President, Indonesia Energy Corporation Limited
    Frank.Ingriselli@Indo-Energy.com

    The MIL Network –

  • Fintech driving growth for MSMEs and merchants, says FM Sitharaman

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday said that India’s fintech companies are playing a crucial role in expanding the country’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and empowering merchants as well as micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

    The Finance Minister visited the office of Pine Labs, a digital fintech company based in Noida, and interacted with its employees and staff members.

    She acknowledged “India’s fintech firms’ contribution to expanding the country’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and in enabling seamless, secure, and inclusive financial services for merchants and MSMEs,” the Finance Minister’s Office said in a post on X.

    B. Amrish Rau, CEO of Pine Labs, shared his excitement in a post on X, saying that it was “an exciting and unbelievable day… It was a full house and our FM was completely immersed in her interactions and tech discussions.”

    Pine Labs is a merchant commerce omnichannel platform operating across India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. The company focuses on simplifying digital payments and helping businesses scale their fintech solutions.

    Meanwhile, UPI QR codes have shown the fastest growth in India’s digital payments infrastructure in the financial year 2024–25, registering a 91.5 percent increase over the previous year, reaching 657.9 million.

    The number of banks going live on UPI continues to rise, reaching a total of 668 in April, which is expected to boost the value of transactions, according to data from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

    UPI has emerged as the dominant method for digital transactions in India. Nearly four out of every five digital payments in the country during FY24 were conducted via UPI, according to the RBI’s annual report.

    The RBI has also introduced greater flexibility in revising transaction limits for in-person UPI merchant payments. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) can now adjust limits based on user needs, with appropriate safeguards—making UPI even more convenient for users.

    India’s digital payments ecosystem witnessed a significant surge in the second half of 2024, driven by the increased use of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), mobile payments, and cards, according to Worldline India’s Digital Payments Report.

    IANS

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SJ attends legal forum in Xi’an

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Justice Paul Lam today led a delegation to attend the seventh Hong Kong Legal Services Forum in Xi’an to promote Hong Kong’s international legal and dispute resolution services to the legal sector and enterprises in Shaanxi and the neighbouring regions.

    Minister of Justice He Rong, CPC Shaanxi Provincial Committee Secretary Zhao Yide and over 800 local lawyers and legal sector representatives were also at the forum.

    With the theme of “Serving the Belt & Road Initiative: A New Chapter in Shaanxi-Hong Kong Co-operation”, the forum this year explored issues of interest to Shaanxi enterprises as they go global in handling trade, commerce and foreign investment under the Belt & Road Initiative.

    It also introduced the international legal and dispute resolution services which Hong Kong can offer as a “super connector” for cross-border transactions and as a centre for dispute resolution services.

    In his opening address, Mr Lam said Shaanxi and Hong Kong have maintained close exchanges and co-operation over the years. He mentioned that the governments of the two places signed the Strengthening Hong Kong/Shaanxi Co-operation Agreement last year, which covers legal and dispute resolution services.

    The Department of Justice of Shaanxi Province and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government’s Department of Justice (DoJ) also signed the Framework Arrangement on Co-operation in Legal Services to Support the Belt & Road Initiative to strengthen the exchanges and co-operation in legal services and talent-nurturing between the two places to better facilitate legal services bodies in both places.

    Mr Lam pointed out that the forum represented a significant concrete action in implementing the agreement. He added that he looked forward to strengthening exchanges and co-operation with Shaanxi to serve the country’s needs.

    Yesterday, Mr Lam attended the graduation ceremony of the Hong Kong Common Law & Dispute Resolution Practical Training Course, organised by the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy with the assistance of the Shaanxi Province Lawyers Association.

    The programme is the first foreign-related legal talent training programme held by the academy in a Mainland city.

    A total of about 140 foreign-related lawyers, mainly from Shaanxi Province and the surrounding provinces, cities, autonomous regions and municipalities, participated.

    Mr Lam and the delegation also visited the Belt & Road Demonstration Zone for International Commercial Legal Services in Xi’an, and toured the Xi’an Arbitration Commission, Xi’an China-Europe Railway Express Assembly Center and the three centres of the Ministry of Justice.

    They learnt about Shaanxi’s efforts in fostering an international first-class business environment and the local demand for foreign-related legal services in the Belt & Road context, and discussed how Hong Kong’s international legal and dispute resolution services can provide relevant professional support.

    The seventh Hong Kong Legal Services Forum was jointly organised by the DoJ, the Department of Justice of Shaanxi Province and the Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Office of Shaanxi Provincial People’s Government, together with the Hong Kong Trade Development Council and the X’ian Municipal People’s Government as co-organisers.

    Mr Lam’s delegation comprised more than 120 representatives from the Hong Kong Bar Association, the Law Society of Hong Kong and other related sectors.

    He will conclude his visit this afternoon and return to Hong Kong. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Development Asia: Revitalizing Cities Through Sustainable Urban Redevelopment

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Regulatory planning framework: A prerequisite for comprehensive urban redevelopment is a functioning and responsive urban planning regulatory framework, complemented by an integrated urban governance system that enables close collaboration across institutions and levels of government. Together, these elements facilitate optimal land use, (including the effective application of floor area ratio (FAR)), infrastructure upgrades, and time-bound, context-specific intervention planning. Development control regulations and by-laws should also promote climate resilience, urban health and safety, gender equity, and social inclusion.

    Area-based development: This fosters the holistic development of both existing and new areas while catalyzing further urban growth, contributing to a stronger overall city landscape. An area-based redevelopment planning framework offers a more comprehensive method that integrates amenities, infrastructure upgrades, street improvements, and economic growth. It can transform existing areas—including slums and urban poor neighborhoods—into well-planned, integrated spaces within the urban fabric, thereby enhancing the overall livability of the city.

    Robust land records and property valuation systems: Periodic updates to land and property-related information (e.g., land use, ownership, FAR, development control regulations) are essential for effective urban planning and intervention. These updates ensure transparent data, facilitating the most informed and effective decision-making processes.

    Cities empowered to access financing, absorb capital: Urban redevelopment projects require significant financing throughout various stages of implementation. States and larger cities should establish an apex urban redevelopment fund to lower finance costs, enable private sector access, and ensure sustained funding. Governments can leverage development partners for advisory services and financing facilitation through risk-sharing instruments.

    State governments should empower larger cities to mobilize affordable and sustainable financing solutions, while smaller cities can benefit from state-level funds and bond markets to support urban redevelopment. A financially self-sustaining model, independent of public funds, is key to effective redevelopment. Utilizing land value capture mechanisms can enable governments to generate and redistribute public revenues – augmenting investment in essential infrastructure and supporting more equitable urban transformation.

    Public-private-people partnerships: Private sector participation should be incorporated and incentivized through feasibility studies for urban redevelopment projects, easing the burden on the government while enhancing infrastructure development—not only for basic services but also for housing, office spaces, hotels, and other urban facilities (e.g., public open spaces, amenities). Such partnerships provide access to the technical expertise, experience, and efficiency of private entities. Moreover, engaging residents in the process fosters inclusive urban redevelopment strategies and helps mitigate resistance to redevelopment efforts.

    Institutional capacity for coordination and cooperation: Holistic urban redevelopment requires extensive coordination across multiple fronts—spatial, economic, social, and financial. Institutions must establish mechanisms to foster cooperation while strengthening their capacities to harness the economic potential of urban areas. Urban local bodies need skilled human resources to effectively negotiate, coordinate, and collaborate with various stakeholders. Ultimately, coherent institutional, governance, and regulatory frameworks are essential for sustaining long-term coordination and cooperation.

    Green infrastructure and preservation of cultural heritage: Cities can transition toward a more climate-responsive built environment by mandating green infrastructure provisions in plans and development control regulations, incentivizing their implementation, and fostering convergence across various government schemes. Where applicable, redevelopment plans can also integrate strategies for heritage and cultural preservation through adaptive reuse while maintaining existing built forms. Additionally, promoting pedestrianization and natural cooling mechanisms through sustainable building materials can further revitalize urban areas.

    Community engagement and inclusivity: Engaging citizens in a highly technocratic urban redevelopment planning process has traditionally been ineffective. To address this, these processes must be simplified, and dedicated citizen engagement models developed. Platforms that encourage citizen participation in planning and implementation can help mitigate adverse impacts. A strong civil society presence, and partnerships with civil society organizations can enhance citizen engagement, particularly among economically weaker and vulnerable communities.

    Databases on urban redevelopment projects: As redevelopment policies and regulatory frameworks evolve, institutional capacities strengthen, and redevelopment gains momentum, cities will need to gather, process, and access relevant information to guide the design, planning, and implementation of redevelopment initiatives across the region. Establishing a database of critical information on ongoing and completed urban redevelopment projects could provide valuable insights and benefits sooner rather than later.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • Maldives Foreign Minister to attend High Level Core Group meeting in Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Maldives Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Khaleel, who is on a three-day visit to India, will lead the Maldivian delegation at 2nd India-Maldives High Level Core Group (HLCG) meeting in New Delhi on Monday. The meeting will oversee progress in the implementation of India-Maldives Vision Document on Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership, adopted during Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu’s India visit in October 2024.

    Khaleel will also hold bilateral discussions with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.

    On Sunday, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal extended a warm welcome to Khaleel on his arrival in New Delhi.

    Jaiswal shared a post on X, “Implementing the India – Maldives Joint Vision of a ‘Comprehensive Economic & Maritime Security Partnership’. Warm welcome to FM @abkhaleel of Maldives to India. FM Dr. Khaleel will lead the Maldivian delegation at the 2nd High Level Core Group (HLCG) meeting which oversees implementation of the Joint Vision.”

    This will be Khaleel’s third visit to India in 2025, following his earlier visits in January and March, and is in continuation of intensified high level political exchanges between the two nations. Maldives is India’s key maritime neighbour and an important partner in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, i.e., Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.

    (With ANI inputs)

  • Sensex soars 640 points, Nifty crosses 25,000 mark on positive sentiment

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian stock market opened on a strong note Monday, buoyed by positive investor sentiment following India’s ascent to the fourth spot in the global economy rankings.

    By 9:32 a.m., the BSE Sensex had rallied 640.3 points, or 0.78%, to trade at 82,361.46. Meanwhile, the NSE Nifty was up 187.39 points, or 0.75%, at 25,040.45.

    The broader market also saw an upward trend. The Nifty Bank index gained 408.25 points, or 0.74%, reaching 55,806.50. The Nifty Midcap 100 rose 426.60 points to 57,114.35, while the Nifty Smallcap 100 advanced 145.90 points to 17,789.25, registering a 0.83% gain.

    Analysts attributed the early rally to the news of India becoming the world’s fourth-largest economy, calling it a morale booster for markets in the short term. Additionally, the Reserve Bank of India’s record dividend payout to the central government—exceeding budget estimates—is expected to aid in containing the fiscal deficit at 4.4% for FY26.

    “This, in turn, can help sustain the current low inflation trend and a declining interest rate environment, both of which are supportive of equity markets. While foreign institutional investors (FIIs) were strong buyers earlier in May, the trend has turned erratic recently, suggesting profit booking at higher levels,” said V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.

    In the Sensex basket, top gainers included M&M, PowerGrid, NTPC, Tata Motors, ICICI Bank, SBI, Tech Mahindra, L&T, Asian Paints, and Axis Bank. Eternal was the only notable loser in early trade.

    In Asia, markets traded mixed. Indices in Bangkok, Seoul, and Tokyo were in the green, while markets in China, Hong Kong, and Jakarta saw declines.

    Globally, the last trading session in the U.S. ended lower. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at 41,603.07, down 256.02 points or 0.61%. The S&P 500 dropped 39.19 points (0.67%) to 5,802.82, and the Nasdaq declined 188.53 points (1.00%) to settle at 18,737.21.

    On the institutional investment front, FIIs were net buyers, purchasing equities worth ₹1,794.59 crore on May 23. Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) also bought stocks worth ₹299.78 crore.

    Looking ahead, key economic data such as India’s GDP figures, the U.S. Federal Reserve’s meeting minutes, and U.S. inflation numbers are expected to influence market sentiment this week.

    “Geopolitical uncertainties, the ongoing corporate earnings season, institutional capital flows, and the upcoming derivatives expiry are currently driving volatility in Indian equity markets,” said Devarsh Vakil, Head of Prime Research at HDFC Securities.

     
    -IANS

  • MIL-OSI USA: Miller, Davis Reintroduce the Second Chance Reauthorization Act of 2025

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV)

    Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV) and Congressman Danny K. Davis (D-IL) introduced legislation to reauthorize critical reentry grant programs from the Second Chance Act of 2008 to support reentry efforts including housing, career training and job placement, and substance use disorder and mental health treatment. The Second Chance Reauthorization Act of 2025 would reauthorize critical programs to reduce recidivism, invest in communities, and promote public safety.
     
    Over 95% of the prison population will eventually be released, with more than 600,000 individuals returning to their communities from prison each year and an even higher number entering and exiting local jails. To address this need and to improve reentry services and lower recidivism rates, the Second Chance Act was passed by Congress with bipartisan support and signed into law by President Bush in April 2008. The Act was last reauthorized by President Trump in 2018.
     
    Senators Capito (R-WV) and Booker (D-NJ) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.
     
    “Since the Second Chance Act passed in 2008, formerly incarcerated West Virginians reentering our communities have received the vital services and support they needed to return home successfully,” said Rep. Miller. “We have seen the benefits of the Second Chance Act in West Virginia and across the country. When we put in place strong reentry programming, we are creating safer communities where individuals feel supported and empowered to break the cycle of recidivism.”
     
    “Second Chance reentry programs and services have reached hundreds of thousands of individuals and families across the country, creating healthier families and safer communities,” said Rep. Davis. “Continuing to invest in these evidenced-based interventions is a commonsense approach to strengthen individuals, re-build families, and grow our economy.”
     
    Joining Representatives Miller and Davis are Representatives Darin LaHood (R-IL), Lucy McBath (D-GA), Bruce Westerman (R-AR), Hank Johnson (D-GA), Laurel Lee (R-FL), Bobby Scott (D-VA), Don Bacon (R-NE), Nydia Velásquez (D-NY), Lloyd Smucker (R-PA), Shontel Brown (D-OH), Mike Turner (R-OH), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Barry Moore (R-AL), and Andre Carson (D-IN).
     
    “As a former federal prosecutor, I understand the importance of accountability to the law, but I also believe that individuals deserve the opportunity to rebuild their lives and contribute to society,” said Rep. LaHood. “I am proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing the Second Chance Act to invest in rehabilitation programs to strengthen services provided in Illinois’ 16th Congressional District to reduce recidivism rates and provide substance abuse treatment for those who need it most.”
     
    “Last month, I was honored to work with colleagues across the aisle to declare April as Second Chance Month, and today’s introduction of the Second Chance Act builds on our bipartisan efforts to break down barriers for formerly incarcerated Americans,” said Rep. McBath. “The goal of our justice system is to reduce and prevent recidivism, which is why we must make smart federal investments to support programs and organizations that assist individuals with reentry. We in Congress can and must be leaders in breaking the stigma and empowering formerly incarcerated individuals to once again make vital contributions to their communities. I am proud to be an original cosponsor of this legislation.”
     
    “It is incredibly important to create pathways for incarcerated Arkansans and Americans who have paid their debt to society and are now experiencing the arduous barriers to re-enter their communities. Congress must work towards reducing recidivism rates and breaking the cycle of crime,” said Rep. Westerman. “There is no doubt that each of these Americans have an intrinsic value and are worthy of the dignity that comes with establishing hard-earned jobs and gaining sought-after respect among their peers. I am proud to support the Second Chance Reauthorization Act which will promote second chances and in turn, create safer communities and brighter futures.
     
    “Thousands of citizens return from incarceration to our communities every year,” said Rep. Johnson. “I know how difficult it is for people to get back up on their feet after getting out of the system. We need to fund programs that can remove barriers for returning citizens. That’s what Second Chance Act is all about, and I’m proud to support this critical, bipartisan legislation.”
     
    “Stabilizing services and employment opportunities are critical for recently incarcerated individuals. We know these programs get people back on the right track and facilitate successful reentry,” said Rep. Scott. “The Second Chance Act reduces recidivism and provides critical support for those returning to society and I thank my colleagues for joining this bipartisan effort with me.”
     
    “I am pleased to support the reauthorization of the Second Chance Act, which demonstrates our commitment to the power of forgiveness and rehabilitation,” said Rep. Bacon. “Second Chance programs have helped reintegrate people back into society, heal families, and give much-needed mental health services. With the help of these support systems, individuals can become productive members of society, restoring dignity and respect to those who have served their time and want to contribute back to their communities and families.”
     
    “Everyone deserves the chance to rebuild their life after incarceration, and that means real support, not roadblocks. The Second Chance Reauthorization Act invests in the housing, job training, and mental health services that make successful reentry possible,” said Rep. Velázquez. “I’m proud to support this bipartisan effort to break cycles of incarceration and uplift communities across the country, and I thank Representatives Danny Davis and Carol Miller for their leadership on this important legislation.”
     
    “America is the land of opportunity and second chances. Previously incarcerated individuals who take accountability for their actions and improve their lives should be able to count on our support,” said Rep. Smucker. “By passing the Second Chance Act Reauthorization Act of 2025, we can help more Americans successfully reenter and become productive members of their communities.” 
     
    “I am honored to be an original cosponsor of the Second Chance Act Reauthorization of 2025. In Northeast Ohio we know first-hand how the cycles of incarceration can negatively impact families and communities,” said Rep. Brown. “By investing in reentry programs and supporting formerly incarcerated individuals, the Second Chance Act has reduced recidivism, strengthened families, and invested in communities that are far too often left behind. We need to build on that progress and ensure more people have a real path to opportunity and stability.”
     
    “The Second Chance Reauthorization Act of 2025 represents a principled and measured approach to criminal justice reform, one that reaffirms our commitment to accountability while acknowledging the vital role of rehabilitation and successful reintegration,” said Rep. Turner. “When we invest in programs that prepare individuals to return to society with purpose and responsibility, we not only restore lives, but strengthen the foundations of our communities.”
     
    “For many incarcerated Alabamians and Americans, paying their debt to society after committing a crime is just the start of a long, burdensome process toward re-entering society,” said Rep. Moore. “The Lord shows each of us grace daily, and that same grace should be shown to those who are committed to breaking the cycle of crime and reintegrating into communities. We must do all we can to help reduce recidivism rates and provide pathways to opportunities that will help incarcerated individuals see a brighter future. I am proud to support the Second Chance Reauthorization Act and look forward to seeing the positive impacts it makes on incarcerated individuals and their communities.” 
     
    “I’m honored to join my colleagues as an original cosponsor of the Second Chance Act Reauthorization. These programs have a proven track record of reducing recidivism and helping returning citizens come back home to become productive members of our communities,” said Rep. Carson. “Over half of all Second Chance participants enrolled in re-entry programs for employment, housing and education services. My home state of Indiana has seen a 21% drop in re-incarceration rates since the bill was first enacted, and if we continue to boldly invest in Second Chances, our families and communities will grow stronger with opportunities for everyone.

    “For too long, our country’s criminal justice system has focused on punitive measures that do nothing to reduce recidivism or actually make our communities safer. We need to invest in initiatives that center rehabilitation and reentry – which is why I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Second Chance Reauthorization Act,” said Rep. Jayapal. “This legislation will continue giving formerly incarcerated individuals the tools and support they need to come back to their homes and communities and successfully rebuild their lives.” 
     
    To read the full text of the bill, click here.
     
    Background:
    The Second Chance Reauthorization Act of 2025 would:

    1. Reauthorize key grant programs that provide vital services, supports, and resources for people reentering their communities after incarceration;
    2. Expand allowable uses for supportive and transitional housing services for individuals reentering the community from prison and jail; and
    3. Enhance addiction treatment services for individuals with substance use disorders, including peer recovery services, case management, and overdose prevention.

     
    Since its passage 16 years ago, Second Chance has supported states, local governments, tribal governments, and nonprofit organizations in their efforts to reduce recidivism. To date, Second Chance grants have reached more than 442,000 justice-involved individuals who participated in reentry services or parole and probation programs. From 2009 to 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice awarded over 1,300 Second Chance Act grants to states, local, and tribal governments, as well as reentry-focused community organizations. Second Chance grants have been administered to 871 agencies across 49 U.S. states, territories, and the District of Columbia.
     
    The legislation is supported by the Council of State Governments Justice Center, Correctional Leaders Association, Major County Sheriffs of America, Conservative Political Action Conference, American Correctional Association, American Jail Association, Prison Fellowship, National District Attorneys Association, American Parole and Probation Association, National Alliance on Mental Illness, National Association of Counties, National Association of State Alcohol and Drug Abuse Directors, National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors, National League of Cities, Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities, Unify.US, and U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • I don’t know what’s wrong with him: Trump says he is not happy with Putin for bombing Ukraine

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday expressed deep unhappiness at Russia’s weekend bombing of Ukraine, saying of Russian President Vladimir Putin, “I’m not happy with Putin.”
     
    “I don’t know what’s wrong with him. What the hell happened to him? Right? He’s killing a lot of people. I’m not happy about that,” Trump told reporters at the airport in Morristown, New Jersey, as he prepared to return to Washington.
     
    Trump spoke in reaction to a Russian barrage of 367 drones and missiles at Ukrainian cities overnight on Sunday, including the capital Kyiv, in the largest aerial attack of the war so far, killing at least 12 people and injuring dozens more.
     
    Trump has been trying to get both sides to agree to a ceasefire in the three-year-old war in Ukraine and he spoke for more than two hours with Putin last week.
     
    He raised the possibility of imposing more sanctions on Russia in response to the ongoing attacks.
     
    “Always gotten along with him, but he’s sending rockets into cities and killing people, and I don’t like it at all,” Trump said.
     
    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Labour Department to hold briefing on abolition of MPF offsetting arrangement

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​The Labour Department will hold a briefing on the abolition of Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) offsetting arrangement on June 26 (Thursday) at 3.30pm at the Hall, North Point Community Hall, 123 Java Road, North Point. Participants may also join the briefing online in real time via Zoom. Employers, employees and human resources practitioners are welcome to attend.
     
    The abolition of MPF offsetting arrangement took effect on May 1 to improve the retirement protection of employees. To tie in with the abolition, the Government on the same day launched the 25-year Subsidy Scheme for Abolition of MPF Offsetting Arrangement (SSA) to share out the severance payment/long service payment expenses of employers after the abolition. The key features of the abolition of MPF offsetting arrangement, the calculation of severance payment/long service payment after the abolition, and the main points of the SSA will be introduced in the briefing.
     
    The briefing will be conducted in Cantonese, and admission is free. Quotas will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and the enrolment deadline is June 18 (Wednesday). The enrolment form can be downloaded from the thematic website of the abolition of MPF offsetting arrangement (www.op.labour.gov.hk/en/pdf/Enrolment Form_June_(e).pdf). For enquiries, please call 2852 3921.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Firing practice for June 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Firing practice will take place at two military sites, namely the San Wai/Tai Ling Firing Range and the Tsing Shan Firing Range, next month (June).

    Red flags or red lamps will be hoisted at the firing areas before and during firing practice. For their safety, people are advised not to enter the firing area.

    Following are the dates and times for the firing practice sessions in June 2025:

    San Wai/Tai Ling Firing Range
    ————————————–
     

    Date Time
    June 2 (Monday)
    June 3 (Tuesday)
    June 4 (Wednesday)
    June 5 (Thursday)
    June 6 (Friday)
    June 9 (Monday)
    June 10 (Tuesday)
    June 11 (Wednesday)
    June 12 (Thursday)
    June 13 (Friday)
    June 16 (Monday)
    June 17 (Tuesday)
    June 18 (Wednesday)
    June 19 (Thursday)
    June 20 (Friday)
    June 23 (Monday)
    June 24 (Tuesday)
    June 25 (Wednesday)
    June 26 (Thursday)
    June 27 (Friday)
    June 30 (Monday)    		 8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm

    Tsing Shan Firing Range
    ——————————-
     

    Date Time
    June 2 (Monday)
    June 3 (Tuesday)
    June 4 (Wednesday)
    June 5 (Thursday)
    June 6 (Friday)
    June 9 (Monday)
    June 10 (Tuesday)
    June 11 (Wednesday)
    June 12 (Thursday)
    June 13 (Friday)
    June 16 (Monday)
    June 17 (Tuesday)
    June 18 (Wednesday)
    June 19 (Thursday)
    June 20 (Friday)
    June 23 (Monday)
    June 24 (Tuesday)
    June 25 (Wednesday)
    June 26 (Thursday)
    June 27 (Friday)
    June 30 (Monday)    		 8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm
    8am-9pm

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by CE at Asia Summit on Global Health (English only) (with photos/video)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the Asia Summit on Global Health today (May 26):
     
    Honourable Vice-minister Cao Xuetao (Vice-minister of the National Health Commission), Deputy Director Yin Zonghua (Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR)), Deputy Commissioner Li Yongsheng (Deputy Commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the HKSAR), Dr Peter Lam (Chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
         Good morning. I am delighted to join you all for this year’s Asia Summit on Global Health. Delighted to welcome our friends from around the world to Hong Kong.
     
         Global health starts with unity.  This spirit of collaboration is as important today as it was in 2021, when this Summit was first launched. It was launched under the cloud of the global pandemic. We don’t need any reminding of the dark days of the COVID-19 outbreak. But it is worth recalling that those difficult times also sparked a remarkable period of healthcare innovation and co-operation. These positive trends continue, here today, at this Summit.
     
         I thank all who are attending the Summit – over 2 800 experts from some 40 countries and regions. You are medical professionals, policymakers, academics, heads of pharmaceutical and health tech enterprises, and experts in many other fields.
     
         You are here to explore innovative solutions to chronic diseases, healthcare inequities and the challenges of an ageing population. To share knowledge and explore the promising opportunities in medicine, and medical technology, across Asia and beyond.
     
         These topics, and more, will be under the microscope, during the next two days of high-level panel discussions, networking and deal-making sessions. From a global perspective, the Director-General of the World Health Organization will share with us his views by video in a few minutes.
     
         Under the theme of “Fostering Global Collaboration for a Shared Future”, this Summit reaffirms Hong Kong’s pivotal role as a leading health innovation hub in the region.
     
         Under the “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong enjoys unique connectivity with both Mainland China and the world. As the world’s freest economy and one of the top three international financial centres, we offer an efficient, open and fair business environment with robust intellectual property protection. We maintain free flows of information, capital, goods and talent. We are also emerging as a leading hub for scientific innovation, technological advancement and world-class education.
     
         Hong Kong is the only city in Asia with as many as five universities ranked in the top 100 globally. We are home to two of the world’s top 40 medical schools, and eight State Key Laboratories in life and health disciplines. This, and more, provides fertile ground for world-class scientific research and medical technology innovation.
     
         Under “one country, two systems”, we also enjoy strong support of national strategies, coupled with ever-closer connectivity with our country, China.
     
         The connectivity is fully evident at the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone. Straddling our boundary with the neighbouring city of Shenzhen, the Co-operation Zone comprises the Hong Kong Park and the Shenzhen Park. It pools together the technological strengths of our two cities.
     
         Our respective, and collective, strengths are recognised internationally, I’m pleased to add. In its annual Global Innovation Index, the World Intellectual Property Organization has ranked the Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou science and technology cluster second, globally, for five consecutive years.
     
         It helps that we are core cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, or the GBA, a cluster city development that brings together 11 cities in southern China. It has a population of some 87 million, and a GDP that closely rivals the world’s 10th-largest economy.
     
         Riding on this synergy with other GBA cities, the Hong Kong Park of the Co-operation Zone is in good shape for its operational phase later this year. We will provide over US$250 million to support the InnoHK research clusters to set up there, and another US$25 million to assist start-ups engaging in life and health technology.
     
         The InnoHK clusters, let me add, now count 29 research centres and laboratories focusing on health tech, artificial intelligence and robotics, each formed by partnering a Hong Kong institution with a Mainland or international institution.
     
         In other news from the Co-operation Zone, the Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trial Institute is now up and running in the Hong Kong Park.
     
         And, just last week, the Institute started a collaboration initiative on clinical trial with our two medical schools. In more than 70 clinical trial projects expected to be launched in the coming year, the Institute will help to co-ordinate in cross-boundary clinical trials, connection with GBA institutions, and more. Well, that’s what I call a healthy outcome!
     
         Another key healthcare collaboration is on the registration for drugs and medical devices. Under a special measure of the National Medical Products Administration, several healthcare institutions in Mainland cities of the GBA may now use drugs and medical devices used in Hong Kong, but not yet registered on the Mainland. This accelerated pathway allows for the access of innovative medicines and devices into the Mainland market.
     
         We are now working with Shenzhen to establish a Real-World Study and Application Centre, by year’s end, to promote co-operation on the sharing of health and medical data. It would speed up the approval and registration of new drugs in both places.
     
         Hong Kong is committed to establishing its own internationally recognised authority for the registration of drugs and medical devices. We have implemented the “1+” mechanism for the registration of new drugs, vaccines and advanced therapy products. The mechanism allows for a drug to be registered in Hong Kong, once it has been registered with a reference drug regulatory authority, and supported by local clinical data.
     
         These and other efforts will drive the development of Hong Kong into an international health and medical innovation hub. More importantly, they will expedite patients’ access to advanced diagnostic and treatment services.
     
         To boost Hong Kong’s research prowess, we have launched a subsidy to support local universities in setting up health technology research institutes. With an allocation of some US$770 million, the programme will foster academic collaboration in life and health sciences research.
     
         Beyond funding research, let me add, we are also investing into developing our research talent. As a result, publicly funded PhD places increased by about one-third to 7 200 over the past two academic years. Places under the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme also saw a one-third rise.
     
         We endeavour to ensure the timely, and efficient, commercial returns from Hong Kong’s excellent research outcomes, including healthcare innovations. For this, we have set aside over US$1.2 billion for the Research, Academic and Industry Sectors One-plus Scheme, and another US$1.2 billion for the New Industrialisation Acceleration Scheme. These Schemes support enterprises to adopt new innovations, and set up smart productions facilities, respectively.
     
         Ladies and gentlemen, in fighting a virus, isolation is vital – quarantining the infected to protect the healthy. But in tackling healthcare, trade, and other societal issues, isolation is not the answer. While walls may stem the spread of a disease, they stifle free and open exchange, which is the lifeblood of prosperity.

         With unilateralism and protectionism sweeping the world like a contagion, we should remember a fundamental truth: Trade thrives on openness. Much as how a human body can only stay healthy when its interconnected systems work in harmony, our global economy can only prosper with an ecosystem of trust, collaboration and multilateralism. For in trade, as in health, resilience lies not in isolation, but in collaboration. And Hong Kong is here to build meaningful partnerships and innovative co-operations, with all of you.
     
         My thanks to the Hong Kong Trade Development Council for jointly organising this Summit with the HKSAR Government. I encourage all of you to visit the Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair, another key event of this International Healthcare Week, over the next three days.
     
         As the saying goes, “Laughter is the best medicine”. Therefore, while this Summit focuses on the serious topic of global health, I would like to see all of you rejoice here and participate in a happy mood. Find time, also, to relax and enjoy the colourful cultural experiences here in our world city.
     
         I wish you all a very successful Summit, a delightful stay in Hong Kong and, of course, the best of health!
     
         Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Recipients of social security payments or Working Family Allowance to receive one-off extra allowance

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​The Government today (May 26) announced that, as set out in the 2025-26 Budget, a one-off extra allowance equal to one half of the monthly payment or allowance will be provided to eligible recipients of social security payments, including recipients of the standard rate of Comprehensive Social Security Assistance, Old Age Allowance, Old Age Living Allowance and Disability Allowance. Similar arrangements will apply to households receiving the Working Family Allowance (WFA). The above recipients will receive the extra allowance starting from today (details in the Annex).

    A Government spokesman said that recipients who were eligible for social security payments on April 30, 2025 (i.e. the date on which the Legislative Council approved the Appropriation Bill 2025), and the households for which WFA applications were made within the period from October 1, 2024, to April 30, 2025, and approved would be eligible for the one-off extra allowance. It is estimated that about 1.71 million social security recipients and about 56 000 WFA households would benefit, involving a total of about $3,084 million in extra expenditure. The payment will be credited to the designated Hong Kong bank accounts of the eligible recipients/households and no separate application is required.

    For enquiries, recipients of social security payments may call the hotline of the Social Welfare Department (2343 2255) or contact the respective Social Security Field Unit. As for enquiries from households in receipt of the WFA, please call the hotline of the Working Family Allowance Office of the Working Family and Student Financial Assistance Agency (2558 3000).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Christopher Hui departs for Canada

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui will depart for Canada today to visit Toronto, Ottawa, and Vancouver.

     

    During his visit, Mr Hui will attend the premier Web Summit Vancouver, a key event, where he will share the latest fintech developments and opportunities in Hong Kong with thousands of tech entrepreneurs, investors and leaders.

     

    He will also join several business networking events organised by the Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office (Toronto) and Invest Hong Kong (Canada) to introduce Hong Kong’s advantages in areas such as the financial market, wealth management and fintech, along with the policy support and concessions offered to boost relevant developments and applications.

     

    In addition to conferring with government financial officials of Canada, Mr Hui plans to meet representatives from trade associations and think tanks. He will also visit a number of banks and insurance companies.

     

    Mr Hui is scheduled to return to Hong Kong on May 31. During his absence, Under Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Joseph Chan will be Acting Secretary.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Result of the Daily Variable Rate Repo (VRR) auction held on May 26, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Tenor 1-day
    Notified Amount (in ₹ crore) 25,000
    Total amount of bids received (in ₹ crore) 4,073
    Amount allotted (in ₹ crore) 4,073
    Cut off Rate (%) 6.01
    Weighted Average Rate (%) 6.01
    Partial Allotment Percentage of bids received at cut off rate (%) NA

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/407

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • Heavy rain batters Mumbai; IMD issues alerts for more showers

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Heavy rainfall lashed Mumbai on Monday, marking the arrival of the monsoon season, with visuals from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) capturing the downpour. Several areas across the city recorded substantial rainfall, according to data released by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

    In the western suburbs, Supari Tank and Nariyalwadi Santacruz received the highest rainfall at 25 mm, followed by Khar Danda Pali Hill with 24 mm. Other notable readings included 18 mm at the HE Ward Office, 16 mm at the HW Ward Office, and 15 mm and 14 mm at the Vile Parle and Andheri Fire Stations, respectively. Chakal Municipal School and Malvani Fire Station reported 14 mm and 12 mm, while the Versova Pumping Station recorded 11 mm.

    In the eastern suburbs, Collector Colony in Chembur logged 13 mm of rainfall. The Chembur Fire Station and MW Ward Office followed with 9 mm each. In central Mumbai, Britania SWD and Sewri Koliwada received 12 mm, while the Gokhale Road Municipal School recorded 11 mm.

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD), via its official handle @Indiametdept, stated, “A moderate spell of rainfall is likely to continue over Kerala, coastal Maharashtra including Mumbai, south Jharkhand, north Uttar Pradesh, and Meghalaya during the next three hours.”

    Sunday night’s heavy showers led to waterlogging in several parts of Mumbai. In response, the IMD issued orange to red alerts for the city and its surrounding suburban areas, warning of potential weather-related risks.

    In a post on X, the IMD said, “Light to moderate rainfall is likely to continue over Mumbai and suburban areas during the next 3-4 hours.” The department further added, “Orange to red colour warnings for moderate to heavy spells of rainfall, with moderate thunderstorms accompanied by squally winds of 50–60 kmph, have been issued for Mumbai and suburban areas for the next three hours.”

    Earlier, on May 23, Mumbai witnessed light showers with the IMD forecasting generally cloudy skies and heavy rainfall. “The city is likely to experience generally cloudy skies with heavy rain today,” the IMD had said.

    Meanwhile, in Thane district, heavy rainfall late Wednesday night caused severe damage to the Bhiwandi-Wada road, resulting in massive traffic congestion on Thursday. Large potholes created by the downpour, combined with ongoing road construction, slowed traffic significantly. The jam extended for nearly 7 to 8 kilometres, leaving many commuters stranded for more than four hours.

    (ANI)

  • Sonowal hails PM Modi’s leadership as India rises to fourth-largest economy in the world

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal on Sunday celebrated India’s ascent to becoming the world’s fourth-largest economy, crediting the achievement to the decisive leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi since 2014.

    Speaking at a “Mann Ki Baat” listening event in Assam’s Dibrugarh, Sonowal praised the Prime Minister’s monthly radio address for inspiring millions with stories of courage, innovation, and national pride.

    “Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’ has consistently inspired the citizens of the nation through transformative ideas and stories of courage from across the country,” Sonowal said. “Listening to today’s address once again left me inspired. The Prime Minister has urged all citizens to dedicate themselves to building a developed and self-reliant India. Under his leadership, India has emerged as the world’s fourth-largest economy. We must commit ourselves to taking this journey of growth and prosperity to even greater heights and ultimately achieve Modi ji’s vision of a Viksit Bharat.”

    The Dibrugarh MP also led a Tiranga Yatra in the city, organized to celebrate the success of Operation Sindoor, India’s recent evacuation and rescue mission. He praised the bravery of the armed forces and reaffirmed the Modi government’s commitment to national security.

    During the Yatra, Sonowal also paused to engage with rickshaw pullers and labourers along the route, expressing gratitude for their contributions to society.

    “Shramiks are one of the key driving forces of our great nation. Meeting these hardworking individuals has always been a source of joy and inspiration for me. I thank them for their hard work towards the service of society. After interacting with them, I felt encouraged and grateful to this wonderful country where everyone is working towards building a better tomorrow under the dynamic and inspiring leadership of PM Narendra Modi ji. The unshaken smiles of Shramiks, even in the face of hardship, are what keep us going. They always inspire me. The Modi government remains committed to its holistic welfare and development.”

    Later in the day, Sonowal unveiled a full-sized statue of Matak monarch Swargadeo Sarbananda Singha Dev at Koilabari in Sadiya town. The unveiling ceremony drew widespread participation from community leaders, cultural figures, and local residents who came to pay homage to one of Assam’s most iconic rulers.

    Reflecting on the monarch’s legacy, Sonowal said: “The life and legacy of Swargadeo Sarbananda Singha Dev reflect a profound commitment to public service, justice, and the welfare of his people. His unwavering dedication to his motherland continues to inspire our national spirit. As we unveil this full-sized statue at Koilabari in Sadiya, I urge everyone – especially the younger generation – to draw strength from his ideals and dedicate themselves with sincerity and responsibility to the cause of nation-building. Let his example guide us in our collective journey toward a more just, united, and prosperous India.”

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: An event dedicated to “Anti-fascist war in works of art” was held in Shanghai

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, May 26 (Xinhua) — A themed event titled “Anti-Fascist War in Artworks” was held in Shanghai recently to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the Great Patriotic War and the World Anti-Fascist War, Zhongxinwang reported.

    The event, organized by the Shanghai Association of Chinese Studied in Europe and America, was attended by Chinese and foreign guests, including representatives of the Russian Consulate General in Shanghai and the Belarusian Consulate General in Shanghai, as well as students from Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states studying in Shanghai.

    In honor of the great victory in the anti-fascist war, the event included talks and artistic performances, and an exhibition dedicated to the theme of victory, peace and friendship was opened.

    The exhibition featured sculptures and oil paintings created by graduates of the Ilya Repin St. Petersburg Academy of Arts and the V. I. Surikov Moscow State Academic Art Institute at the Russian Academy of Arts.

    Xiong Jian, executive vice-chairman of the Shanghai Association of Chinese Studied in Europe and America, said that holding this event is of great significance. It promotes cultural exchange and mutual learning, and emphasizes the importance of remembering history and preserving peace.

    According to him, the victory in the world anti-fascist war is the result of international cooperation. This event is designed to help people realize that in the face of global challenges, only through joint efforts can countries overcome difficulties.

    As reported, in August this year, the Shanghai Association of Chinese Studied in Europe and America, together with the Shanghai Artists Association and other organizations, will also hold an art exhibition dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Breaking: Chinese Premier Arrives in Malaysia to Attend ASEAN-GCC-China Summit

    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

    KUALA LUMPUR, May 26 (Xinhua) — Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrived in Kuala Lumpur on Monday to attend the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations)-GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council)-China summit.

    The first trilateral summit was proposed by Malaysia, which holds the ASEAN presidency this year. Li Qiang visited Indonesia before arriving in Kuala Lumpur. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Taiwan’s MOEA Announces: DOIT to Showcase Three NT$100 Million Startups at InnoVEX 2025

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    The Department of Industrial Technology under Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) led 20 research-driven startup teams to InnoVEX, one of Asia’s leading innovation and startup exhibitions. At the event, they unveiled the Taiwan Research-Institute Entrepreneur Ecosystem (TREE) Pavilion, showcasing advanced innovations in AI, ICT, semiconductors, smart mobility, biotech, healthcare tech, green tech, and the circular economy.

    Three startups have achieved the NT$100 million revenue benchmark:

    -FREE Bionics: Has tripled its revenue in the past four years and secured over NT$600 million in funding.
    -KopherBit: On track to exceed NT$100 million in revenue by 2025.
    -GasolineAI: Secured an order worth NT$100 million in its first year.

    Additionally, the 2025 TREE Award Ceremony took place on May 22, celebrating five promising startup teams from research institutions. Experts selected them for their achievements in translating research innovations into market successes.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOEA Develops World-Leading B5G NTN Base Station System, Partners with MediaTek and Chunghwa Telecom to Enable Seamless Satellite Communication Upgrades for Network Equipment

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    At COMPUTEX 2025, the MOEA unveiled its Tech Hub to showcase 30 innovative technologies, highlighting the world-leading B5G/6G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) base station system and bringing together leading network communication companies and major R&D institutes including ITRI, MIRDC, TTRI, and ARTC. In partnership with MediaTek and Chunghwa Telecom, the MOEA successfully completed multi-orbit satellite communication trials. This breakthrough enables direct satellite connectivity via software upgrades, eliminating the need for hardware replacement-a game-changer for remote and offshore connectivity. The solution received global attention at this year’s MWC Barcelona.

    According to the MOEA, Taiwan plays a critical role in the global ICT and AI ecosystem. To stay ahead in next-generation communications and AI-driven manufacturing, the ministry has launched 50 AI pilot production lines, which are already being applied in sectors such as energy storage and smart manufacturing. One notable example is the POXA Energy Management System, which uses AI for intelligent scheduling to optimize green energy storage. The system is slated to spin off into a startup by 2025 to expand its reach.

    The Tech Hub showcases innovations across five key areas: AI services, immersive technologies, AI for manufacturing, sustainable green energy, and next-generation communication. Highlighted solutions include an AI-powered medical logistics robot at Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital; a smart knee brace with electrostimulation to accelerate rehabilitation for the elderly; photo-realistic AI 3D modeling technology that creates high-fidelity models using only a smartphone; and a transparent display open architecture system designed for smart libraries and hybrid digital-physical environments.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOEA Minister Kuo Visits Texas to Promote Supply Chain Cooperation

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    On May 15, Minister of Economic Affairs Jyh-Huei Kuo attended the grand opening ceremony of GlobalWafers’ new plant in Sherman, Texas. Then he traveled to Houston to visit Foxconn’s server plant and hosted business roundtables with Houston-based Taiwanese business leaders.

    Minister Kuo wanted to gain a better understanding of Taiwan’s outbound investment in Texas, explore areas where the Ministry’s support may be needed, and listen to the business leaders’ viewpoints on enhancing U.S.-Taiwan economic and trade relations.

    On the following day, Minister Kuo went to Austin, Texas where he met with Governor Greg Abbott and Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows. State Representative Angie Chen Button had also invited Mr. Kuo to attend a session of the Texas House of Representatives, where Speaker Burrows formally recognized his contributions to strengthening economic and trade ties between Taiwan and Texas.

    Last July, Minister Kuo signed the Taiwan-Texas Economic Development Statement of Intent (EDSI) with Texas Governor Greg Abbott. The agreement aims to enhance collaboration in fields such as semiconductors, electric vehicles, energy resilience, and innovative technologies. Minister Kuo paid a return visit to Governor Abbott focused on implementing this EDSI and further promoting investment and economic partnership between both sides.

    During the meeting, Governor Abbott highlighted Texas’s business-friendly environment, including low tax rates, reasonable investment regulations, a high-quality workforce, and comprehensive vocational training programs.

    On the other hand, the Taiwan Minister provided updates on Taiwan’s outbound investment in Texas and MOEA plans to set up an investment and trade center in Texas later this year. They also exchanged views on how to develop a more resilient Taiwan–Texas supply chain partnership through establishing a science and industry park and strengthening cooperation in semiconductors and AI areas.

    In 2024, Taiwan was Texas’s fourth-largest import source, with a total trade volume of $25.58 billion—a 19.91% year-over-year growth.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • EAM Jaishankar speaks to Canadian counterpart Anita Anand, discusses bilateral ties

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Sunday held a telephonic conversation with newly appointed Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand. The two leaders discussed avenues to strengthen India-Canada relations.

    In a post on X, Jaishankar said: “Appreciate the telecon with FM Anita Anand of Canada. Discussed the prospects of India-Canada ties. Wished her a very successful tenure.”

    Anand, who recently assumed office as Foreign Minister in Prime Minister Mark Carney’s new government, reciprocated the sentiment, calling the exchange “productive” and expressing her intention to deepen cooperation with India.

    “Thank you, Minister S. Jaishankar, for the productive discussion today on strengthening Canada-India ties, deepening our economic cooperation, and advancing shared priorities. I look forward to continuing our work together,” Anand posted on X.

    Relations between India and Canada have been strained after former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged Indian involvement in the killing of Khalistani extremist and NIA-designated terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil in 2023—an accusation New Delhi rejected as “absurd” and “politically motivated.”

    Earlier this month, on May 14, Jaishankar had extended formal congratulations to Anand on her appointment. The congratulatory message followed the announcement of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s new 38-member cabinet, which includes 28 ministers and 10 Secretaries of State.

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • PM Modi holds roadshow in Vadodara, kicks off two-day Gujarat visit to inaugurate key projects

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday led a vibrant roadshow in Gujarat’s Vadodara as part of his two-day visit to the state, where he is scheduled to inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for several developmental projects aimed at boosting infrastructure and economic growth.
     
    During the roadshow, PM Modi was seen warmly interacting with enthusiastic crowds, waving to citizens who responded with cheers, chants of patriotic slogans, and waving the Indian flag. 
     
    Family members of Indian Army officer Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, who was part of media briefings during Operation Sindoor, were also present at the roadshow and welcomed the Prime Minister with flower petals.
     
    Following the roadshow, PM Modi is scheduled to travel to Dahod to inaugurate a locomotive manufacturing plant of Indian Railways. The facility will produce 9,000 HP electric locomotives for domestic use and exports. Designed for energy efficiency and equipped with regenerative braking systems, these locomotives are expected to boost the freight capacity of Indian Railways and contribute to sustainable transport.
     
    The Prime Minister will also flag off two new train services — the Vande Bharat Express between Veraval and Ahmedabad, and an express train between Valsad and Dahod. In addition, he will lay the foundation stone and inaugurate multiple development projects in Dahod worth around ₹24,000 crore. A public function will also be held during his visit.
     
    Later, PM Modi will travel to Bhuj to launch and lay the foundation stone for various development projects valued at over ₹53,400 crore. These include major initiatives in the power sector, such as transmission projects to evacuate renewable energy from the Khavda Renewable Energy Park, expansion of the transmission network, and the setting up of an ultra-supercritical thermal power plant unit in Tapi. Other projects include port development at Kandla and infrastructure works in roads, solar power, and water supply across Gujarat.
     
    On May 27, the Prime Minister will be in Gandhinagar to participate in the celebration of 20 years of the Gujarat Urban Growth Story. He will also launch the Urban Development Year 2025 and address a public gathering on the occasion.
     
    -ANI

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by Secretary for Health at Plenary Session: Shaping a More Equitable and Sustainable Health System of Asia Summit on Global Health (English only) (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, at the Plenary Session: Shaping a More Equitable and Sustainable Health System of the Asia Summit on Global Health today (May 26):

    Distinguished guests, healthcare leaders, ladies and gentlemen,

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese premier lands in Malaysia for ASEAN-GCC-China Summit

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

    KUALA LUMPUR, May 26 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrived in Kuala Lumpur on Monday to attend the ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations)-GCC (the Gulf Cooperation Council)-China Summit at the invitation of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

    Li was welcomed by Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook and Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing, among others, at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

    Prior to his arrival in Malaysia, ASEAN’s rotating chair, Li paid an official visit to Indonesia.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Cannes roundtable explores new era for Chinese cinema

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

    A roundtable on “Exploring China’s Film Narratives in a New Era” brought together Chinese and international filmmakers at the Marché du Film during the 78th Cannes Film Festival, aiming to strengthen cross-cultural dialogue and boost the global appeal of Chinese cinema.

    (From left) Cedric Behrel, Chen Sicheng, Chen Yu and moderator Silvia Wong join the panel roundtable “Exploring China’s Film Narratives in a New Era” during the 78th Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, May 20, 2025. [Photo courtesy of China Film Association]

    Deng Guanghui, executive president of the China Film Association, noted in his opening remarks that 2025 marks the 120th anniversary of Chinese cinema and highlighted the industry’s evolution from technical innovation to greater cultural depth.

    “In recent years, supportive policies have driven both creative and industrial growth. Chinese filmmakers are advancing aesthetic traditions while developing unique styles in content, technology and global outreach. They continue to tell original, powerful stories to audiences worldwide,” Deng said.

    China is home to the world’s second-largest film market, Deng said, noting that the government is encouraging more crossover initiatives such as “film plus tourism” and “film plus consumer experiences” to grow the market and promote global development.

    “Chinese cinema will remain open and inclusive, working with international filmmakers to tell stories of our shared future,” he said.

    The panel featured renowned filmmaker Chen Sicheng, screenwriter and Peking University professor Chen Yu, and Cedric Behrel, managing director of Trinity CineAsia, as keynote speakers.

    Chen Sicheng, creator of the hit “Detective Chinatown” franchise, shared insights into the series’ success, saying it has become increasingly difficult to satisfy audiences with single-genre films as new formats such as gaming and social media gain influence.

    “Filmmakers must adapt,” he said. “The ‘Detective Chinatown’ IP blends thriller, comedy and action while reflecting contemporary society. Both form and content need to resonate equally with Chinese audiences.”

    “Chinatown is a unique window and symbol of Chinese culture, especially abroad,” Chen said. “I wanted to tell a story about distinctly Chinese detectives on adventures overseas. Through this film, I hope international audiences can see Chinese cinema evolve. Did I expect its success? I was confident – good films will always find their audience.”

    Chen also revealed plans to set the next “Detective Chinatown” installment in London, but after visiting France, he is now considering filming in Paris and expanding the story across Europe.

    Screenwriter Chen Yu, known for his work on Zhang Yimou’s acclaimed films such as “Full River Red” and “Under the Light,” discussed trends among Chinese audiences. “Chinese viewers are paying more attention to the narrative itself. But this isn’t unique to China – we’re also seeing a global return to storytelling as a central focus,” Chen said. “Audiences generally hope to draw emotional and sentimental strength from films.”

    Cedric Behrel, whose company has handled numerous Chinese releases abroad, including the recent animated juggernaut “Ne Zha 2,” said China’s vast domestic market and its capacity for producing large-scale, high-quality films give it a distinct advantage in delivering the big-screen experiences audiences desire. He noted that as people worldwide spend more time on personal screens, Chinese cinema has an opportunity to stand out.

    He also pointed to China’s rich cultural heritage as a deep source of stories, noting that films like “Ne Zha 2” must balance staying true to local mythology while appealing to global audiences. For Behrel, the appeal lies in demonstrating that Chinese films can compete with Hollywood blockbusters and leading animation studios like Disney, Pixar and Japan’s anime industry.

    (From left) Chen Yu, Deng Guanghui, Chen Sicheng and Cedric Behrel pose for a photo after the panel roundtable at the 78th Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, May 20, 2025. [Photo courtesy of China Film Association]

    Chen Sicheng spoke about his role in supporting young talent. He said film industrialization goes beyond visual effects–driven blockbusters, describing it as a systematic process that includes scriptwriting, production, post-production and marketing. Chen sees his company and his role as managing this pipeline to help young Chinese directors become more professional and to provide support where needed.

    Discussing his upcoming film “Malice,” which he produced and wrote and is set for release in July, Chen said the story addresses contemporary issues such as online public opinion and cyberbullying.

    Chen said problems on the internet are a global issue, not unique to China. Since the 1990s, the internet has driven significant progress but also brought challenges, as voices of authority have been drowned out and irrational opinions have come to dominate online discussions, distorting perspectives on politics, culture and the future of humanity.

    “While ‘Malice’ can’t fix these problems, films must reflect their time,” Chen said. “This movie will serve as a time capsule of the digital age and preserve our collective memory of these critical years.”

    Chen Yu also addressed another trending topic: artificial intelligence. He said AI will achieve significant progress and, as its internal systems become more complex, it may eventually develop a form of intelligence. While he views AI as a tool capable of creating many things, he emphasized that humans remain the true measure of all things. Artistic creation, he said, is driven by human flaws and hesitation – qualities that AI, as a rational tool, cannot replicate.

    “When art touches the softest parts of the human soul, AI cannot replace it,” he stressed.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Descendants of British POWs commemorate Lisbon Maru WWII tragedy

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

    Descendants of British prisoners of war and the Chinese fishermen who rescued them during the Lisbon Maru incident gathered on an eastern Chinese island on May 20 to unveil a monument to the historic rescue, before meeting filmmakers behind the upcoming war epic “Dong Ji Island.”

    A bronze monument is unveiled on Qingbang Island in Dongji town, Zhoushan, Zhejiang province, May 20, 2025, to commemorate the Lisbon Maru tragedy during World War II. [Photo/Xinhua]

    In October 1942, the Lisbon Maru, a cargo ship requisitioned by the Japanese army to transport more than 1,800 British POWs from Hong Kong to Japan, was torpedoed near the Zhoushan Islands by a U.S. submarine after failing to display required prisoner transport markings. As the ship sank, Dongji fishermen braved machine-gun fire to rescue drowning British prisoners, saving 384 lives.

    The gathering was held on Qingbang Island, one of the three populated islands in the Dongji Islands archipelago in Zhoushan, Zhejiang province, where a bronze monument now stands to commemorate the heroic rescue 83 years ago.

    The 4.5-meter-long memorial, designed by Qu Xiaoshi of the China Academy of Art, features the inscription “Love knows no boundary; Friendship transcends time” in both Chinese and English, along with a detailed account of the event. The design shows arms linked together, reaching up from rough waves, inspired by stories of rescuers pulling prisoners from the water by their wrists.

    The tragedy has been largely forgotten and is denied by the Japanese government. In recent years, descendants, historians, journalists, filmmakers and the Chinese government have worked to preserve accounts of the incident and uncover the truth. Film producer Fang Li released the acclaimed documentary “The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru” last year.

    “This memorial stands as a bridge between past and present, between China and the U.K., between sorrow and solidarity,” said Anthony Jones, grandson of survivor Thomas Theodore Jones and chairman of the Lisbon Maru Memorial Association. “We honor all, both the dead and the living, who kept their memory alive.”

    “Though the Lisbon Maru sank, the bond it forged never will,” Wu said, a descendant of a Dongji fisherman. “As descendants of Dongji fishermen, we will guard this truth just as our ancestors guarded lives – embracing peace and friendship as the ocean embraces all boats.”

    Descendants of British prisoners of war pose with filmmakers at a preview event for “Dong Ji Island” in Zhoushan, Zhejiang province, May 20, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Dark Horse Entertainment]

    A new feature film, “Dong Ji Island,” based on this historic rescue, is set for release this summer. The day after the monument unveiling, the filmmakers screened a preview for descendants of British prisoners of war, who said they were deeply moved.

    The descendants said the film vividly recreates the heroic rescue of British POWs by Chinese fishermen, highlighting the bonds formed between the two countries during the World Anti-Fascist War.

    Lindsey Sarah Archer, niece of the late Lisbon Maru prisoner John Weaver, called the film profoundly shocking yet compelling, saying its gripping narrative held the audience’s attention throughout.

    Denise Wynne, whose father Dennis Morley survived the Lisbon Maru, said the film’s preview offered striking visuals and realistic performances. She was particularly moved by scenes of Chinese fishermen rescuing British prisoners. Wynne said she hopes the film’s release will raise awareness of the Dongji Islands rescue and this chapter of history, as the world marks the 80th anniversary of the end of both the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    Fei Zhenxiang, co-director of the film, spoke at the event about his emotional return to Zhoushan, where the crew filmed on location out of respect for the story. He said their goal was to share this rarely told tale of bravery and kindness with the world.

    Producer Liang Jing, who recently returned from the Cannes Film Festival, where the film received strong positive feedback, said the creative team feels responsible for sharing this moving story with audiences around the world.

    She recounted a poignant moment at Cannes when a British producer, after seeing the “Dong Ji Island” poster, revealed his uncle was a victim of the incident and thanked the Chinese filmmakers for honoring his ancestor’s ordeal. The exchange, Liang said, reinforced the team’s sense of mission.

    “It made us realize this film’s profound value – we must ensure the world remembers this history,” she said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: ASEAN summit kicks off in Malaysia with eye on integration, resilience

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

    The 46th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit kicked off in Kuala Lumpur on Monday in the capital of Malaysia, with greater regional integration and resilience against trade and economic disruptions high on the agenda.

    Speaking at the opening ceremony of the plenary session, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim urged ASEAN members to work together to face the challenges brought about by a changing world order to ensure the agenda of sustainable and equitable development is not sidelined.

    “For ASEAN, our peace, stability and prosperity have often depended on an open, inclusive, rules-based international order, anchored in the free flow of trade, capital and people. These foundations are now being dismantled under the force of arbitrary action,” he said.

    “Indeed, a transition in the geopolitical order is underway and the global trading system is under further strain, with the recent imposition of U.S. unilateral tariffs. Protectionism is resurging as we bear witness to multilateralism breaking apart at the seams,” he added.

    Anwar also stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation with friendly partners of the grouping, noting the significance of the first ever ASEAN-China-GCC summit, which brings together the grouping along with China — the region’s biggest economic partner, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

    Malaysia is the chair of ASEAN for 2025, and is hosting the ASEAN Summit and related summits under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability.”

    Established in 1967, the grouping includes Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: DPRK detains official ‘greatly responsible’ for warship launch accident

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

    Law enforcement authorities of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) have detained a senior official who was largely responsible for a recent failed warship launch, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said Monday.

    Based on the results reported so far from the accident investigation group, the law-enforcement body summoned and detained Ri Hyong Son, vice director of the Munitions Industry Department of the Central Committee of the Workers’ Party of Korea, “who was greatly responsible for the occurrence of the serious accident,” according to the KCNA report.

    The investigation group informed the Central Military Commission of the Workers’ Party of Korea of its progress on Sunday, said the report.

    “At the scene of the destroyer launch accident, the work for completely restoring the balance of the warship is being actively conducted under the technical guidance of an expert group according to its schedule,” it said.

    Authorities have launched a full investigation after the newly built 5,000-ton-class destroyer suffered a “serious accident” during its launch at the Chongjin Shipyard on Wednesday. Three people had been previously detained by law enforcement authorities over the failed launch, according to KCNA reports. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Job Opening: Senior Regional Campaign Strategist (Legal and Political)

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    This is a full-time position based in either Manila, Bangkok, Jakarta, or Kuala Lumpur working on legal and political issues related to the environment. Candidates who have the legal right to work and live in the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia are encouraged to apply.

    Greenpeace and volunteers raise a ‘wind turbine’ on the beach at dawn in Durban, South Africa. To send a message of hope for international negotiations to agree on a fair, ambitious, and legally binding treaty to avert climate chaos.

    About the Role

    The Senior Regional Campaign Strategist (Legal and Political) leads the development of Greenpeace Southeast Asia’s (GPSEA) political and legal strategy and provides legal and political risk assessments in all stages of campaign/project development and implementation. The scope of work is regional, multi-issue, multi-project, and multi-discipline with global dimensions. It requires high ability to adapt and work in different and challenging internal and external work environments and political contexts.

    Duties and Responsibilities:

    • Lead the development and implementation of regional political and legal strategy of GPSEA bringing campaigns and projects across countries together for synergy, regional and global impact as aligned with GPSEA Theory of Change (TOC), objectives and priorities
    • Provide political and legal risk assessments and mitigation measures on key campaign strategies, and project activities; advise leadership team on political and legal responses in case of harassment, violence, and attacks on the staff (including activists, supporters and volunteers) institution, property and reputation of GPSEA
    • Anchor the development of South-South legal/political community and global south position on multilateral platforms in the Greenpeace  global network.
    • Lead global legal/political project or process relevant to GPSEA and global political and legal campaign objectives
    • Strategically position and make GPSEA’s presence in multilateral platforms highly impactful
    • Develop legal and political briefings, negotiating texts, reports, updates, position papers and talking points for regional and global submission in cooperation with relevant programme staff 
    • Analyse external political situations and identify relevant regional trends and opportunities to advance GPSEA’s political and legal work regionally and globally
    • Develop and maintain a GPSEA community of practice around legal and political work
    • Ensure GPSEA’s political and legal position and stance on issues are coherent and consistent across countries and in external communications
    • Proactively identify politically or legally contentious issues that will impact GPSEA and provide advice on actions to take
    • When required/requested, perform a review and give political, legal sign off of reports and other external communications of GPSEA.
    • Actively contribute to programme design, review of campaigns and projects and provide inputs for decision making processes.
    • Proactively contribute to the development and implementation of innovative strategies for non-violent direct actions to maximize political and legal impact, in cooperation with country teams and other international units, and in accordance with Greenpeace’s principles
    • Participate in non-violent direct action to support and advance campaign goals.
    • Organize and oversee the work of short-term contractors where appropriate.
    • Help manage and oversee the budget and ensure financial integrity of projects and unit
    • Coordinate and ensure coherence on GPSEA position internally, provide legal and political oversight on sign-ons
    • Represent GPSEA’s political, legal and related inputs at internal meetings and activities of Greenpeace’s global legal and political communities or global project teams. Inform GPSEA of agreements and developments in the global legal and political communities.
    • Periodically conduct capacity needs assessments of GPSEA staff to improve legal and political work
    • Coordinate capacity building skills shares and training to support the legal and political work of the program team. When requested, mentor or coach  program staff to enhance his/her skills in political and legal engagements.
    • Working with the Fundraising Team to explore and develop working relationships and cooperation with  donors and foundations
    • Lead and coordinate the development of funding proposals for GPSEA legal and political work with relevant GPSEA team leaders.
    • Represent, lead and strategically position GPSEA at key international, regional fora
    • Ensure that the objectives, analysis, recommendations and submissions  of GPSEA in relevant fora are timely, effective and strategic in advancing GPSEA program and organizational objectives, branding and identity
    • Act as expert spokesperson on regional legal and political issues for  GPSEA and a go to person for the global organisation when needed.
    • Proactively develop relationships with national and regional media to increase campaign outreach
    • Build networks and alliances to advance GPSEA objectives, brand and identity
    • Contribute to strengthening social and emergent regional and global movements by supporting development of campaign strategies
    • Develop common strategies and actions with external parties regionally and globally in support of broader political objectives and to realize global and GPSEA campaign objectives and TOCs
    • Assist the Campaign Director in designing GPSEA campaign program and implement strategies to mobilize various stakeholders  and key audiences in the region 
    • Manage project cycle and optimize responsiveness to current situation/context, evolve and devise new ways of working for efficient delivery of multi-layered projects
    • Respond to and engage in internal as well as pressing external regional challenges as determined by the campaign team through the Campaign Director beyond his/her normal area of work as circumstances do require.
    • Keep abreast of regional developments in political and legal fields and maintain a general knowledge of developments in political, legal developments in SEA in order to ensure that GPSEA is able to respond, adjust, campaign appropriately/effectively.
    • Coordinate policy and legal research or other outputs such as policy briefs, statements, submissions, pleadings, motions, legal comments and legal opinions to ensure consistency in form and substance.

    Skills and Experience Requirements:

    • Master’s degree minimum, Doctorate in philosophy or laws preferred in field of Political Science, Public Management, Public Policy, International Relations with minimum 10 years of equivalent experience

    Organizational Competencies:

    • Integrity, professionalism
    • Strategic thinking, goal-oriented
    • High standards of quality outputs
    • Teamwork in a multicultural environment
    • Courage and innovativeness in challenging enemies of the environment,   status quo
    • Values people, interpersonal relationships, conflict resolution and management
    • Information management and transfer, sharing of knowledge
    • Planning, budgeting, monitoring, evaluation

    Functional Skills:

    • Understanding of the political, legal and economic landscape, processes, dynamics in SEA
    • Extensive knowledge of environmental and human rights laws, jurisprudence, regulation, public policies, stakeholders in SEA
    • Political, legal communications skills in all forms
    • Political lobbying, negotiation, advocacy skills/experience in UN, multilateral, bilateral and other policy spaces/processes
    • Legal counseling, representation, litigation practice
    • Political, legal research
    • Campaigning experience, project management
    • Adherence to nonviolence as a means of enacting change
    • Understanding of environmental issues in general and campaign issues and agenda in particular
    • Wide network across the region for potential networking and partnership
    • Public, people management
    • Project management, programme administration
    • Stakeholders, power, constituency, audience analysis

    Preferred Skills:

    • A preference for good communication skills in one of more regional SEA languages other than English. 
      Preference for extensive experience in political economy and progressive political framing of environmental issues
    • Preferred skills include experience in key program areas: policy lobby, public speaking, activist training, strategic planning and organizing people around an issue.
    • Experience in negotiating in multilateral environmental agreements and similar regional platforms

    Greenpeace’s Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

    Greenpeace values diversity as essential to its mission and success. The organisation fosters an inclusive environment that respects varied cultural experiences and perspectives, promoting solutions rooted in social and environmental justice.

    Deadline for applications: May 30, 2025

    Jobs

    Do you have a passion for this planet and want to do more? Work with us!

    TAKE ACTION

    MIL OSI NGO –