NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – The EU and the Pacific Island countries: Between climate change and geopolitical rivalries – 20-05-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The Pacific Islands region occupies almost 15 % of the Earth’s surface. The European Union (EU) recognises 15 Pacific Island Countries (PICs), mostly small developing states formed by archipelagos consisting of a large number of inhabited islands. The region includes three French Pacific Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) associated with the EU. Population dispersion and economic dependency on a narrow range of industries – particularly tourism and fishing – are common characteristics of these countries. Climate change poses an existential threat to the survival of these countries, whose progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals has been quite slow. The region has been largely neglected by the major powers, but it has recently emerged as one of the areas where the geopolitical rivalry between the United States (US) and China is playing out. Beijing’s outreach and influence in the region has been increasing, not least to exert pressure on some countries to abandon their diplomatic recognition of Taiwan. In 2022, the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) – the main political and economic policy organisation of the region – launched the ‘2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent’. Traditional players in the Pacific – Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the United Kingdom (UK) and the US – welcomed the initiative and consequently launched the ‘Partners in the Blue Pacific’ initiative. The EU is the third largest donor of development assistance to the Pacific countries. EU relations with the PICs are based on the much wider framework of the Samoa Agreement, which covers relations with 79 African, Caribbean and Pacific countries. The EU has negotiated an EU-Pacific States Interim Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which entered into force with some PICs.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kotzebue Man Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison for Incessant Stalking

    Source: US FBI

    ANCHORAGE – A Kotzebue man was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Sharon L. Gleason to seven years in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release for cyberstalking two individuals who were carrying out their professional responsibilities to protect a child from abuse or neglect. 

    According to court documents, Louis Holger Eklund, 41, relentlessly stalked and threatened two victims and their family members for nearly three years causing them to fear being attacked in their homes and seriously harmed. The victims are an attorney with the Alaska Attorney General’s office and the then-President of the Native Village of Kotzebue. Following a report from the Alaska Office of Child Services that Eklund had abandoned his infant son, the victims followed their professional responsibilities initiating the Child in Need of Aid (CINA) proceedings. Since the CINA proceeding involved an Alaska Native child, the Native Village of Kotzebue became involved per the Indian Child Welfare Act.

    Eklund caused extreme emotional distress to both victims through dozens of phone calls, voicemails and emails in an effort to intimidate their conduct in the proceedings and retaliate against the work they had already done. Even after his indictment and arrest and while trial was pending, Eklund made it clear that he believed his crimes were justified by the victims’ actions and that the laws did not apply to him. Eklund also has a criminal history and a pattern of violence, violating court orders and actively resisting law enforcement.

    Eklund is the second person to recently be sentenced for terrorizing people working in child protection. In March, the U.S. District Court sentenced Peter Lee Norris, also known as Bjorn Erik Happaniemi, to nine years in prison for stalking and threatening an Office of Children’s Services case worker, her attorney and an FBI agent who investigated the case.

    “The defendant’s incessant harassment and threats to both victims and their family members was terrifying,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Bryan Wilson, District of Alaska. “There is perhaps no higher calling than protecting children who may be in harm’s way. Stalking and threatening these individuals for carrying out their professional responsibilities is detestable and a criminal act for which we will always seek justice.”    

    “Using online tools to scare and disrupt their daily lives, the defendant tormented and caused substantial distress to both victims, who were merely fulfilling their professional responsibilities,” said Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “In Alaska, no one should feel unsafe in their own home, workplace or community, and the FBI will continue to hold accountable those who engage in such conduct.”

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of the case.  

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonas Walker prosecuted the case.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Secures Guilty Verdict in Nigerian Romance Scheme

    Source: US FBI

    ALBUQUERQUE – Following a four-day trial and less than three hours of deliberation, a federal jury returned a guilty verdict against two Nigerian nationals who participated in an international romance scheme.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, the scheme, which began in January 2016, involved the creation of a fictitious persona named “Glenn Brown” on the dating website eHarmony.com. Olutayo Sunday Ogunlaja, 39, and Abel Adeyi Daramola, 37, both Nigerian nationals, worked with another individual who used this fake profile to initiate a romantic relationship with a victim in Albuquerque, New Mexico and subsequently request money from them. Throughout the course of the fraud, the victim was led to believe that their financial assistance was necessary for “Glenn Brown” to complete a purported construction project in Malaysia and return safely to the United States.

    The victim sent approximately $560,000 to various accounts in the United States, Canada, and Malaysia between January 2016 and April 2017. On September 27, 2016, the victim wired approximately $28,000 to a Woodforest Bank account in the name of Daramola Cars, as instructed by the fraudulent “Glenn Brown” persona. Daramola subsequently wired $18,000 to a seafood importer in Denmark and issued a check for $14,000.

    Daramola denied any knowledge of the romance scheme, however the FBI’s investigation uncovered extensive evidence, including text and WhatsApp correspondence on Daramola‘s phone, revealing his role as a provider of bank accounts for various fraud schemes including romance fraud schemes.

    Ogunlaja‘s involvement included using his Bank of America account for receiving fraudulent funds. Specifically, on March 9 and March 15, 2016, “Glenn Brown” instructed the victim to deposit $20,000 cash into Ogunlaja‘s account. Following these deposits, Ogunlaja made multiple cash withdrawals and transfers to Daramola’s account.

    Following the verdict, the Court ordered that Ogunlaja and Daramola remain on conditions of release pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled. At sentencing, Ogunlaja and Daramola each face up to 20 years in prison.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

    The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy Peña is prosecuting the case.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Drunk Driver Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Second-Degree Murder

    Source: US FBI

    PHOENIX, Ariz. – Derwin Davis Tsosie, Jr., 26, of Tuba City, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Judge Douglas L. Rayes on Monday to 12 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Tsosie pleaded guilty to Second Degree Murder. 

    On November 14, 2022, Tsosie was driving at approximately 135 miles per hour when he hit the victims’ car from behind, killing the driver and seriously injuring the passenger. Tsosie’s blood alcohol concentration was .323, more than four times the legal limit. At the time of the crash, Tsosie’s license was suspended for a previous DUI arrest. The crime occurred on the Navajo Nation Indian Reservation, where Tsosie is an enrolled member.

    The Navajo Nation Division of Public Safety, Arizona Department of Public Safety, and Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix handled the prosecution.
     

    CASE NUMBER:           CR 23-8019-PCT-DLR
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2023-124_Tsosie

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    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney, FBI Announce Federal Charges Against Zuni Man for Murder

    Source: US FBI

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man has been charged with second degree murder in Indian Country.

    The indictment alleges that on or about December 1, 2024, Glendon Laate, a member of the Zuni Pueblo, allegedly killed John Doe with malice aforethought by shooting him with a homemade firearm.

    Laate will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted, Laate faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison.

    U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

    The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Caitlin L. Dillon is prosecuting the case.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Charges Dulce Man with Domestic Violence

    Source: US FBI

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Dulce man is facing federal charges for assault by strangulation after the victim was hospitalized with serious injuries.

    According to court documents, on February 19, 2024, officers responded to a fight on Veneno Street in Dulce. There they encounter Chalmers Dedios, 32, and the victim. Officers determined that the victim was in distress, showing signs of fear and wearing heavy clothing despite warm weather. After Dedios was arrested on unrelated charges, the victim told officers they had been assaulted multiple times, including strangulation incidents on February 10 and 14.

    The victim was taken to San Juan Regional Medical Center for serious injuries, including an active brain bleed. During a subsequent interview, Dedios admitted to strangling the victim. Dedios and the victim are enrolled members of the Jicarilla Apache Nation Indian Tribe.

    Dedios is in custody pending trial, which has not been set. If convicted of the current charges, Dedios faces up to 10 years in prison.

    U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez made the announcement today.

    The Jicarilla Apache Police Department investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jesse Pecoraro is prosecuting the case.

    A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tucson Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Child Sexual Abuse

    Source: US FBI

    TUCSON, Ariz. – Eric David Marrufo, 43, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced yesterday by United States District Judge Cindy K. Jorgenson to life in prison. Marrufo was convicted of five counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child and one count of Abusive Sexual Contact With a Child.

    A jury convicted Marrufo on August 19, 2022, of sexually abusing the victims at his home on the Pascua Yaqui Indian Reservation between August 1, 2006, and August 1, 2008. Marrufo is a member of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pascua Yaqui Police Department conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew C. Cassell and Rui Wang, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.

    CASE NUMBER:           CR-17-0976-TUC-CKJ-EJM
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2023-113_Marrufo

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    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Parker Man Sentenced to 12 Years for Voluntary Manslaughter

    Source: US FBI

    PHOENIX, Ariz. – Anthony William Delgado, 28, of Parker, Arizona, was sentenced last week by United States District Judge Steven P. Logan to 144 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Delgado pleaded guilty to Voluntary Manslaughter.

    On October 24, 2021, Delgado struck the victim multiple times in the head and face with a sledgehammer, causing the victim to sustain fatal injuries. The victim died one week later. Delgado is an enrolled member of the Colorado River Indian Tribes (CRIT) and the offense occurred on the CRIT Reservation.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the CRIT Police Department conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christina J. Reid-Moore and LeighAnn M. Thomas, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.

    CASE NUMBER:           CR-22-00427-PHX-SPL
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2023-112_Delgado

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: York and North Yorkshire set to benefit from recent trade deals

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    York and North Yorkshire set to benefit from recent trade deals

    The three trade deals that we have struck in three weeks will benefit a range of manufacturing sectors that employ nearly 9% of all people in York and North Yorkshire.

    • Prime Minister to meet with the Mayor of York and North Yorkshire David Skaith to discuss the benefits of his recent trade deals.
    • Comes as we’ve nailed three trade deals in as many weeks to deliver growth that is a priority for the Plan for Change.
    • Delivers a welcome boost to a range of manufacturing sectors that employ nearly 9% of people in the region.

    The three trade deals that we have struck in three weeks will benefit a range of manufacturing sectors that employ nearly 9% of all people in York and North Yorkshire. 

    Reducing India’s tariffs on machinery, slashing tariffs on car exports in both deals and our agreement with the US to remove the 25% tariff on steel provides stability for more than 1,500 businesses in the region employing 43,000 people. 

    This means greater job security for workers and stronger economic growth to create more jobs across York and North Yorkshire – delivering on the priorities in our Plan for Change.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    The trade deals that we have closed delivers stability for nearly 9% of people in York and North Yorkshire who are employed in manufacturing. 

    It also will create opportunities for more seamless trade, attracting inward investment that will grow the local economy and make a difference to people’s lives. 

    These changes will be felt everywhere, whether it’s lower food prices at the checkout, more choice for consumers and higher living standards that will improve livelihoods across York and North Yorkshire.

    Over 31,000 people employed in agriculture across the region will also benefit from our agreement with the EU, which reduces red tape and burdens on business, meaning regional specialties like crab, Yorkshire Pudding and cheeses will face easy access to the UK’s biggest trading market.

    The agreement also protects British steel exports from new EU rules and restrictive, providing further security for 8,400 jobs in the steel industry across Yorkshire and the Humber.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    The three landmark deals secured this month with the US, India, and the EU have shown this government is serious about striking the deals that our businesses want and need.

    We are delivering billions for the UK economy and wages every year as part of our Plan for Change. For businesses in North Yorkshire, these deals will mean stability and jobs protected as they seize new opportunities to sell to some of our biggest trading partners.

    The Prime Minister will tell the English Mayors and the Leaders from the Devolved Governments at a meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions in London today (Friday 23 May) that his trade deals with India, the United States and the EU will deliver economic growth that will improve people’s lives at home.  

    He will challenge those in attendance to drive economic growth in their local areas to deliver for working people.  

    Tom Richardson, Chief Commercial Officer, Warrendale Group Limited, said:  

    While we are yet to see the full detail of the agreement, having less red tape when exporting will be welcome to us as a UK beef production business; this will hopefully allow us to reduce time and costs when exporting our products and therefore could open up more markets in the EU to ultimately benefit the farmers producing beef for us.

    Our increased trade with India will unlock opportunities for every region in the UK to access the world’s fastest growing economy, including in York and North Yorkshire’s manufacturing sector.

    Under the Free Trade Deal that was concluded, India has agreed to remove tariffs on a wide variety of UK agri-food products. This will deliver significant benefits for the region’s farming and horticultural sector that produces 20% of all the UK’s agri-food.

    In the same week, we negotiated a first of its kind agreement with the US that will reduce tariffs on UK car exports and remove tariffs on steel, protecting two key industries in the region that employ thousands of people. 

    The US deal also opens the way to a wider UK-US Economic Deal, opening up access for our world leading services industries – including those in York and North Yorkshire. 

    Just this week, the Prime Minister acted in the national interest by confirming a new agreement with the European Union that will deliver on his core mission to grow the economy, creating more jobs in York and North Yorkshire, raising living standards and putting more money in people’s pockets.  

    At today’s meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions the Prime Minister will also lead discussions about spreading AI to help working people access the services that they need in their local areas.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: West of England to benefit from recent trade deals

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    West of England to benefit from recent trade deals

    The three trade deals that we have struck in three weeks will benefit manufacturing that accounts for around 5% of all employment in the West of England.

    • Prime Minister to meet with the Mayor for the West of England Helen Godwin to discuss the benefits of his recent trade deals.
    • Comes as we’ve nailed three trade deals in as many weeks to deliver growth that is a priority for the Plan for Change.
    • Agreement with the EU a huge boost to 64,000 people employed in agriculture across the South West.

    The three trade deals that we have struck in three weeks will benefit manufacturing that accounts for around 5% of all employment in the West of England. 

    Reducing India’s tariffs on machinery, reducing the US tariff on cars and removing American tariffs on UK aerospace will support employers with a significant presence in the region like Airbus, Rolls-Royce and GKN Aerospace. 

    This means job security for workers, jobs creation supported in local communities and higher living standards across the West of England – priorities that we are delivering through Plan for Change.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    The trade deals that we have closed provides certainty for the 5% of all working people who are employed in manufacturing, delivers security for their families and puts more in people’s pockets.  

    It also will create opportunities for more seamless trade, attracting inward investment that will grow the local economy and make a difference to people’s lives.   

    These changes will be felt everywhere, whether it’s lower food prices at the checkout, more choice for consumers and higher living standards that will improve livelihoods across the West of England.

    68,000 people employed in agriculture (a fifth of all agriculture workers in England) across the South West will benefit significantly from our trade deal with the EU, that removes red tape and burdens on business, meaning regional specialties like Cheddar Cheese now have easy access to the UK’s biggest trading market.

    In another win for local producers, the deal means goods like Gloucestershire sausages that previously could not be exported can now be sold to customers in the EU.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    The three landmark deals secured this month with the US, India, and the EU have shown this government is serious about striking the deals that our businesses want and need.

    We are delivering billions for the UK economy and wages every year as part of our Plan for Change. For businesses in the West of England, these deals will mean stability and jobs protected as they seize new opportunities to sell to some of our biggest trading partners.

    The Prime Minister will tell the English Mayors and the Leaders from the Devolved Governments at a meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions in London today (Friday 23 May) that his trade deals with India, the United States and the EU will deliver economic growth that will improve people’s lives at home.  

    He will challenge those in attendance to drive economic growth in their local areas to deliver for working people.  

    John Harrison, Chair of Airbus UK, said:

    We welcome this new chapter in the UK-EU relationship. In an uncertain world, closer cooperation gives businesses greater certainty and unlocks new opportunities for investment, innovation and growth.

    For Airbus, with our unique industrial footprint across both the UK and EU, this reset provides a vital platform to strengthen partnerships in defence, space and civil aerospace, areas where collaboration is essential to Europe’s long-term security and competitiveness.

    Our increased trade with India will unlock opportunities for every region in the UK to access the world’s fastest growing major economy, including the West of England. 

    Under the Free Trade Deal that was concluded, the barriers to trading have been dropped, with India agreeing to reduce tariffs on products including advanced machinery, aerospace and medical devices that are made in the West of England. 

    Based on 2022 trade alone, this amounts to India cutting tariffs worth over £400 million when the deal comes into force, which will more than double to around £900 million after 10 years.    

    India reduced tariffs on medical devices and machinery exported from the UK, that will deliver significant benefits for firms across Bristol and the wider region. 

    The deals both support collaboration on green energy tech, aligning with the region’s initiatives in renewables and energy innovation. They also bring benefits to the financial, digital and services companies that are based in Bristol which employ local people and generate economic growth across the region. 

    Just this week, the Prime Minister acted in the national interest by confirming a new agreement with the European Union that will deliver on his core mission to grow the economy, creating more jobs in the West of England, raising standards and putting more money in people’s pockets.  

    At today’s meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions the Prime Minister will also lead discussions about spreading AI to help working people access the services that they need in their local areas.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Teesside to benefit from recent trade deals

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Teesside to benefit from recent trade deals

    The three trade deals that we have struck in three weeks will boost the Tees Valley’s manufacturing industries (9% of local jobs), with tariffs on car exports slashed alongside a range of other measures.

    • Prime Minister to meet with the Metro Mayor of the Tees Valley Ben Houchen to discuss the benefits of his recent trade deals.
    • Comes as we’ve nailed three trade deals in as many weeks to deliver growth that is a priority for the Plan for Change.
    • Delivers a welcome boost to a range of manufacturing sectors that employs 9% of local jobs.

    The three trade deals that we have struck in three weeks will boost the Tees Valley’s manufacturing industries (9% of local jobs), with tariffs on car exports slashed alongside a range of other measures.   

    Reducing India’s tariffs on machinery, slashing tariffs on car exports in both deals and our agreement with the US to remove the 25% tariff on steel provides stability for the biggest employers in the region like Nissan, the engine manufacturer Cummins and Caterpillar.   

    This means greater job security for workers, stronger economic growth to support more jobs and higher living standards across the Tees Valley – priorities that we are delivering through our Plan for Change.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 

    The trade deals that we have closed delivers stability for manufacturing in the Tees Valley that employs 9% of all people.   

    It also will create opportunities for more seamless trade, attracting inward investment that will grow the local economy and make a difference to people’s lives.   

    These changes will be felt everywhere, whether it’s lower food prices at the checkout, more choice for consumers and higher living standards that will improve livelihoods across the Teesside.

    10,123 people employed in agriculture across the North East are also set to benefit from our trade deal with the EU. It means less checks and red tape, meaning farmers and producers who grow food across the region now have easy access to the EU, the UK’s biggest trading partner.

    This deal also protects British steel exports from new rules and restrictive tariffs, helping to protect 3,050 people working in the steel industry across the North East.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    The three landmark deals secured this month with the US, India, and the EU have shown this government is serious about striking the deals that our businesses want and need.

    We are delivering billions for the UK economy and wages every year as part of our Plan for Change. For businesses in Teesside, these deals will mean stability and jobs protected as they seize new opportunities to sell to some of our biggest trading partners.

    The Prime Minister will tell the English Mayors and the Leaders from the Devolved Governments at a meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions in London today (Friday 23 May) that his trade deals with India, the United States and the EU will deliver economic growth that will improve people’s lives at home.    

    He will challenge those in attendance to drive economic growth in their local areas to deliver for working people.   

    Our increased trade with India will unlock opportunities for every region in the UK to access the world’s fastest growing major economy, including for businesses in the Tees Valley like independent production company Wander.

    Chloe Clover, Co Founder and CEO at Wander:

    Trade deals like these are game changing for ambitious businesses because they open doors, spark innovation and make international growth possible.

    The support Wander received from DBT on our recent trade missions to SXSW Austin and Amsterdam gave us the perfect platform to expand our services globally. We connected with major industry players, explored new markets and showcased our expertise at roundtables.

    We attended bootcamps ahead of the missions and were introduced to other agencies and potential clients & partners.

    Under the Free Trade Deal that was concluded, tariffs on cars sold to India will come down from over 100% to 10% under a quota, while other tariff reductions on aerospace parts will also benefit Teesside’s manufacturing sector. 

    Based on 2022 trade alone, this amounts to India cutting tariffs worth over £400 million when the deal comes into force, which will more than double to around £900 million after 10 years.     

    In the same week, we negotiated the first of its kind agreement with the US that will reduce tariffs on UK car exports and remove tariffs on steel, protecting two key industries in Teesside that employ thousands of people.  

    Just this week the Prime Minister acted in the national interest by confirming a new agreement with the European Union that will deliver on his core mission to grow the economy, creating more jobs in Teesside, raising living standards and putting more money in people’s pockets.    

    At today’s meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions the Prime Minister will also lead discussions about spreading AI to help working people access the services that they need in their local areas.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Wales to benefit from recent trade deals

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Wales to benefit from recent trade deals

    Trade deals with India, US and the EU that have seen tariffs on key industries slashed are set to help drive growth in Wales.

    • Prime Minister to meet with the First Minister of Wales Eluned Morgan to discuss the benefits of his recent trade deals
    • Comes as we’ve nailed three trade deals in as many weeks to deliver growth that is a priority for the Plan for Change
    • Delivers job security for workers in Wales and more opportunities for Welsh Industry

    Trade deals with India, US and the EU that have seen tariffs on key industries slashed are set to help drive growth in Wales. 

    These deals will deliver benefits that communities across Wales will feel – supporting job creation, reducing costs and expanding export opportunities.

    This means stronger economic growth across Wales – delivering our Plan for Change.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    These trade deals deliver long term security for people in Wales. They will create opportunities for more seamless trade and attract inward investment to grow the economy, making a difference to people’s lives.  

    These changes will be felt everywhere, whether it’s lower food prices at the checkout, more choice for consumers and higher living standards that will improve livelihoods across Wales.

    The Prime Minister will tell the English Mayors and the Leaders from the Devolved Governments at a meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions in London today (Friday 23 May) that his trade deals with India, the United States and the EU will deliver economic growth that will improve people’s lives at home.  

    He will challenge those in attendance to drive economic growth in their local areas to deliver for working people.  

    Russell Greenslade, Director, CBI Wales, said:

    As an export-led economy, the government’s commitment to free and fair trade will be welcomed by firms across Wales.

    Amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and economic headwinds, these agreements with the US, India and the EU will reduce existing barriers to trade and provide Welsh firms with a renewed sense of optimism as they look to seize new international opportunities.

    Deals like these will be critical to driving growth, creating jobs and raising living standards across our nation.

    Over 200 Welsh businesses exported goods worth £226 million to India last year and this could grow even further under the new trade deal.

    Welsh farmers will benefit from the India deal with tariffs on lamb reduced from 33% to 0%. Wales has a vibrant creative sector, and the deal provides enhanced copyright protections for producers so they can be confident that works will continue to be protected for at least 60 years.

    Welsh food and drink producers will also no longer face huge delays and red tape to export into the EU while some products like Welsh sausages and lamb mince will no longer be blocked. The deal has been welcomed by the Head of Wales at the Federation of Small Businesses and by the National Farmers Union Cymru who highlighted that Wales exports £813m of food and drink a year to the EU – 75% of all exports and more than the UK level of 57%. 

    Wales is also home to a thriving clean energy sector employing over 58,000 people and generating over £4.8 billion in revenue – this deal will support further development as we gain unprecedented access to India’s procurement market as they transition towards a net zero economy. The sector will also benefit from the new EU deal which agrees cooperate on clean energy and link our schemes for emissions trading – worth up to £3.8 billion a year to our economy in the long run.

    Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:

    The trade deals with India, the US and the EU are great news for Welsh consumers, Welsh business, and Welsh jobs.

    Taken together these deals mean a huge boost for our key industries, from farming to green energy and the creative sector. We want to grow our economy and create secure well-paid jobs and by unlocking new markets and opportunities we can deliver on that promise.

    Our increased trade with India will unlock opportunities for every region in the UK to access the world’s fastest growing economy, including for Wales.

    Wales’s steel industry has also been supported by the US trade deal which has eliminated the previous steel tariffs of 25% and our deal with the EU adds further protection for steel by safeguarding steel exports from new EU tariffs.

    Under the historic deal reached with the US last week, we have agreed reciprocal market access on beef that will benefit farmers in Wales, will a total UK quota of 13,000 metric tonnes. There will be no weakening of UK food standards on imports.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    The three landmark deals secured this month with the US, India, and the EU have shown this government is serious about striking the deals that our businesses want and need.

    We are delivering billions for the UK economy and wages every year as part of our Plan for Change. For Welsh businesses, these deals will mean stability and jobs protected as they seize new opportunities to sell to some of our biggest trading partners.

    Just this week, the Prime Minister continued to act in Britain’s national interest by confirming a new agreement with the European Union that will deliver on his core mission to grow the economy, create more jobs in Wales, raising living standards and put more money in people’s pockets.

    At today’s meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions the Prime Minister will also lead discussions about spreading AI to help working people access the services that they need in their local areas.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scotland to benefit from recent trade deals

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Scotland to benefit from recent trade deals

    Trade deals with India, US and the EU slashing tariffs on key industries and opening markets are set to help drive growth in Scotland and put money in Scots’ pockets.

    • Prime Minister to meet with the First Minister of Scotland to discuss recent trade deals and the boon for Scotland.
    • Comes as we’ve nailed three trade deals in as many weeks to deliver growth that is a priority for the Plan for Change.
    • Iconic Scottish produce such as Salmon, Whisky, Gin and Irn Bru boosted by easier access to international markets.

    Trade deals with India, US and the EU slashing tariffs on key industries and opening markets are set to help drive growth in Scotland and put money in Scots’ pockets.

    These deals represent tangible benefits for communities throughout Scotland, supporting jobs, reducing costs, expanding export opportunities for iconic Scottish products and making it easier to go on holiday.

    This means stronger economic growth for firms across Scotland – delivering on our Plan for Change.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    These trade deals deliver long term security for people in Scotland. They will create opportunities for more seamless trade and attract inward investment to grow the economy, making a difference to people’s lives.   

    These changes will be felt everywhere, whether it’s lower food prices at the checkout, more choice for consumers and higher living standards that will improve livelihoods across Scotland.

    The new agreement with the European Union, the UK’s largest trading market, will directly address challenges faced by Scottish exporters since 2019. The Scottish salmon industry has estimated that between 2019 and 2023, Scottish Salmon export values experienced a net loss of around £75 million. Our deal makes it significantly easier to sell Scottish goods to European markets. We’ve also unlocked a new salmon market through our deal with India, with tariffs dropping from 33% to 0%.

    Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, said: 

    We welcome the UK Government’s efforts in moving at pace to secure trade deals that will grow and strengthen market opportunities for our farmers.

    Ministers rightly recognise salmon as the jewel in the crown of our world-class produce and its vital role in the economy of coastal communities and across the UK.

    Securing frictionless access to key markets such as the EU, along with expanding opportunities in India, is crucial to protect our producers from unnecessary barriers like tariffs and red tape.

    Scottish salmon’s high standards of quality and sustainability set it apart globally, helping to drive investment and support 12,500 jobs across the Highlands and Islands and beyond.

    We look forward to continuing to work with government to build on this momentum, including further progress with the US, and to ensure Scotland’s salmon sector continues to thrive on the world stage.

    The landmark deal with India has slashed tariffs on Scotland’s most iconic products. Scottish distillers will immediately see these halved from 150% to 75% and eventually to just 40% over the next decade.

    Other industries boosted by the deal include soft drinks and food that will ramp up Scotland’s export economy, supporting jobs and increasing prosperity across the country.

    Secretary of State for Scotland Ian Murray said:

    Our trio of trade deals shows we are championing Scottish products and businesses on the global stage. From our world-renowned whisky distilleries to our cutting-edge green energy sector, Scotland has so much to offer international markets. But more importantly as part of our Plan for Change this means more money in people’s pockets.

    By securing better access to the European Union, United States and India, we’re creating real opportunities for Scottish businesses to grow, supporting jobs in communities from the Highlands to the Borders.

    The Prime Minister will tell the English Mayors and the Leaders from the Devolved Governments at a meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions in London today (Friday 23 May) that his trade deals with India, the United States and the EU will deliver economic growth that will improve people’s lives at home.   

    He will challenge those in attendance to drive economic growth in their local areas to deliver for working people.   

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    The three landmark deals secured this month with the US, India, and the EU have shown this government is serious about striking the deals that our businesses want and need.

    We are delivering billions for the UK economy and wages every year as part of our Plan for Change. For Scottish businesses, these deals will mean stability and jobs protected as they seize new opportunities to sell to some of our biggest trading partners.

    In the US Tariffs on British steel and aluminium will be removed. In addition to vital assurances for life science, there are reductions for the automotive industry with US tariffs cut from 27.5% to 10% for 100,000 vehicles every year and Indian tariffs dropping from 110% to 10% under a quota.

    New reciprocal market access has also been agreed on beef – with UK farmers given a tariff free quota for 13,000 metric tonnes without compromising the sector’s high standards.

    At today’s meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions the Prime Minister will also lead discussions about spreading AI to help working people access the services that they need in their local areas.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: North East of England to benefit from recent trade deals

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    North East of England to benefit from recent trade deals

    Top job creators in the North East of England’s automotive industry are set to benefit from new trade deals with India and the US that slashes tariffs and boosts access to the world’s fastest growing economy.

    • Prime Minister to meet with the Mayor of North East England Kim McGuiness to discuss the benefits of his recent trade deals.
    • Comes as we’ve nailed three trade deals in as many weeks to deliver growth that is a priority for the Plan for Change.
    • Boost for top job creators and delivers long term security for 14,000 workers employed in the automotive industry locally.

    Top job creators in the North East of England’s automotive industry are set to benefit from new trade deals with India and the US that slashes tariffs and boosts access to the world’s fastest growing economy.

    This means long-term stability for 14,000 people employed in the sector and security for their families. 

    It will also deliver opportunities for major job creators in the region like Nissan, Hitachi and Caterpillar to grow – the first priority of our Plan for Change.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

      These trade deals that we have closed delivers stability for the 14,000 workers employed in the automotive manufacturing in the North East.    It also will create opportunities for more seamless trade, attracting inward investment that will grow the local economy and make a difference to people’s lives.    These changes will be felt everywhere, whether it’s lower food prices at the checkout, more choice for consumers and higher living standards that will improve livelihoods across the North East Combined Authority.

    10,123 people employed in agriculture across the North East are also set to benefit from our trade deal with the EU. It means less checks and red tape, meaning farmers and producers who grow food across the region now have easy access to the EU, the UK’s biggest trading partner.

    This deal also protects British steel exports from new rules and restrictive tariffs, helping to protect 3,050 people working in the steel industry across the North East.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

      The three landmark deals secured this month with the US, India, and the EU have shown this government is serious about striking the deals that our businesses want and need.

    We are delivering billions for the UK economy and wages every year as part of our Plan for Change. For businesses in the North East, these deals will mean stability and jobs protected as they seize new opportunities to sell to some of our biggest trading partners.

    The Prime Minister will tell the English Mayors and the Leaders from the Devolved Governments at a meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions in London today (Friday 23 May) that his trade deals with India, the United States and the EU will deliver economic growth that will improve people’s lives at home.  

    He will challenge those in attendance to drive economic growth in their local areas to deliver for working people.  

    The benefits of the India deal for local businesses and workers have been praised by Professor Carl Stephen Patrick Hunter, Chairman of Coltraco Ultrasonics Limited & Director General of The Durham Institute of Research, Development & Innovation. 

    Professor Carl Stephen Patrick Hunter OBE said:  

      Coltraco Ultrasonics is strongly supportive of the India Free Trade Agrement and proud to have modestly contributed to and advising the British negotiating team on various chapters.   The UK private sector can now, because of the India FTA, the Windsor Framework CPTPP, and a variety of other UK FTAs, look out to the world, balancing our exporting and investment opportunities between the USA, the EU and Asia Pacific.    It is a tremendous success and we thank British and Indian Civil Servants for their public service in the UK-India FTA.

    Our increased trade with India will unlock opportunities for every region in the UK to access the world’s fastest growing economy, including the North East.

    Under the Free Trade Deal that was concluded, tariffs on cars sold to India will come down from over 100% to 10% under a quota.  

    In the same week, we negotiated a first of its kind agreement with the US that will reduce tariffs on car exports to 10% for the first 100,000 vehicles per year, almost the total number of UK vehicles exported to the country last year. 

    Just this week, the Prime Minister acted in the national interest by confirming a new agreement with the European Union that will deliver on his core mission to grow the economy, creating more jobs in the North East, raising living standards and putting more money in people’s pockets.  

    At today’s meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions the Prime Minister will also lead discussions about spreading AI to help working people access the services that they need in their local areas.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: EPD team visits PLA Hong Kong Garrison Exhibition Center (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Director of Environmental Protection, Dr Samuel Chui, today (May 23) led the directorate officers of the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) to visit the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Hong Kong Garrison Exhibition Center at Ngong Shuen Chau Barracks. Accompanied by representatives of the PLA Hong Kong Garrison, the team toured the exhibition themed “Dreams of the East”.
     
         The exhibition comprises three thematic exhibition halls, namely “the Chinese Dream”, “the Dream of a Strong Military” and “the PRC HK Garrison”, along with a weaponry and equipment area. After the visit, Dr Chui and the team members expressed that the exhibition enhanced their appreciation of the nation’s illustrious military legacy and modernisation efforts, while deepening their grasp of the strategic significance of the holistic approach to national security.
     
         Dr Chui said, “Ecological security is a pivotal element of the national security system. EPD has been upholding a spirit of professionalism and innovation, collaborating to build a green, resilient city. Through environmental initiatives, we reinforce the ‘one country, two systems’ principle and inject impetus into Hong Kong’s sustainable development.”
     
         In addition to internal training to enhance staff awareness of national security, the EPD has rolled out diverse educational activities in recent years to strengthen public understanding of the country, particularly among the youth.
     
         The Environment and Ecology Bureau and the EPD, in collaboration with the Center for Environmental Education and Communications of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, have produced the documentary series “Enchanting China”. With the first series launched last September, the documentary helped the public understand the country’s progress in ecological civilisation development in building a beautiful China, as well as the contributions and achievements made by the country and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government in environmental protection and nature conservation through showing the country’s achievements and contributions in environmental protection. The second series of “Enchanting China” is currently in production and slated for release later this year.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces appointments 5.22.25

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 22, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:

    Tala Khalaf, of San Carlos, has been appointed to the Physical Therapy Board of California. Khalaf has been a Senior Physical Therapist at the Stanford Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Physical Therapy Clinic since 2008, Faculty Member of the Physical Therapy Residency Program at Stanford Health Care since 2014, a Self-Employed Concierge Physical Therapist since 2017, and the Co-Founder of PhysioHand since 2020. She is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association. Khalaf earned a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Massachusetts General Hospital and a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Therapy from Ohio State University. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Khalaf is a Democrat. 

    Donna DeBerry, of San Diego, has been appointed to the 22nd District Agricultural Association San Diego County Fair Board. DeBerry has been Chief Executive Officer of Donna Deberry & Associates since 2025. DeBerry was the President and Chief Executive Officer for the County of San Diego Black Chamber of Commerce from 2020 to 2025. She was the Vice President of Global Inclusion at Seismic from 2021 to 2022. She was the Director of Global Inclusion and Diversity at Indeed from 2016 to 2018. She was the Global Manager Inclusion & Diversity at Starbucks from 2014 to 2016. She was a Global Diversity & Inclusion Executive Consultant at Brand Inclusion from 2007 to 2014. She was a consultant and Vice President of Global Diversity at Nike from 2004 to 2006. DeBerry was the Executive Vice President of Global Diversity at Wyndham Worldwide from 2000 to 2004. DeBerry earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Diversity and Organizational Development from Thomas Edison State College. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and there is no compensation. DeBerry is registered without party preference.

    Kartikeya “KK” Jha, of Fresno, has been reappointed to the State Board of Pharmacy, where he has served since 2022. Jha has been District Director of Operations at Omnicare, a CVS Health Company since 2019. He was Director of Operations at Nimble Rx from 2018 to 2019. Jha earned a Master of Science degree in Pharmacology and Toxicology from Long Island University. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Jha is a Democrat.

    Nicholas Hardeman, of Sacramento, has been appointed to the California Housing and Finance Agency Board of Directors. Hardeman has been Principal at Hardeman Strategies and Consulting since 2024. He was Chief of Staff to Senate President pro Tempore Emeritus Toni G. Atkins in the California State Senate from 2016 to 2024. Hardeman held several positions in the California State Assembly from 2006 to 2016, including Chief of Staff to Speaker pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins, Special Assistant to Speaker pro Tempore John Pérez, and Chief of Staff to Speaker pro Tempore Fiona Ma. He was a Policy Consultant in the California State Senate from 2003 to 2006. Hardeman is a Board Member on the California Exposition and State Fair Board of Directors, Brightline Defense Project, and The California Storm. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in American Government in Politics from Saint Mary’s College of California. This position requires Senate confirmation, and there is no compensation. Hardeman is a Democrat.

    Jason Newell, of Sacramento, has been reappointed to the State Board of Pharmacy, where he has served since 2024. Newell has been Principal and Co-Founder at System2Solutions since 2020. He was Co-Founder and Program Director of the Leveraging Equal Access Program from 2015 to 2024. Newell earned a Master of Social Work degree in Community Mental Health from California State University, East Bay, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Advertising Design from Academy of Art College. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Newell is a Democrat.

    Nicole Thibeau, of Los Angeles, has been reappointed to the State Board of Pharmacy, where she has served since 2021. Thibeau has been Director of Pharmacy Services at the Los Angeles LGBT Center since 2013. She was the Pharmacist in Charge at Target Pharmacy from 2012 to 2013. Thibeau was the Pharmacist in Charge at CVS Pharmacy from 2009 to 2012. She earned a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Thibeau is a Democrat.

    Daniel Lee, of South Sacramento, has been reappointed to the Podiatric Medical Board of California, where he has served since 2020. Lee has been a Foot and Ankle Surgeon for The Permanente Medical Group, Kaiser Permanente since 2011, Clinical Professor at the California Northstate University, College of Medicine since 2013, Clinical Professor at the California School of Podiatric Medicine since 2021 and Associate Clinical Professor at Western University College of Podiatric Medicine since 2021. He is a Member of the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons. Lee earned a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from the California College of Podiatric Medicine and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Biomedical Sciences from Chulalongkorn University. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Lee is registered without party preference.

    Maria Preciosa Solacito, of Palmdale, has been reappointed to the California Veterinary Medical Board, where she has served since 2020. Solacito has been a Practice Owner in Antelope Valley since 2023. She held multiple positions at the County of Los Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control from 2008 to 2023, including Deputy Director, Senior Veterinarian, and Shelter Veterinarian. Solacito is a member of the Southern California Veterinary Medical Association, Southern California Filipino Veterinary Medical Association, Association for Animal Welfare Advancement, California Animal Welfare Association, and the Philippine Veterinary Medical Association. She earned a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of the Philippines College of Veterinary Medicine. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Solacito is a Democrat.

    Cheryl Williams, of San Diego has been reappointed to the Respiratory Care Board, where she has served since 2021. Williams has been an Insurance Consultant for the American Family Life Assurance Company since 2015. She was a Community Relations Coordinator at the San Ysidro Health Center from 2010 to 2015. Williams was a Constituent Service Manager in the California State Assembly from 2006 to 2010. She was an Assistant Campaign Field Manager for Mary Salas for State Assembly from 2005 to 2006. Williams was a Community Development Consultant at the Jacobs Foundation in San Diego from 2001 to 2004. She was President and Chief Executive Officer at the San Diego Circuit Board Service from 1981 to 2000. Williams was a Hearing and Placement Assistant for the San Diego Unified School District from 1977 to 1981. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and San Diego Delta Foundation Inc. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Williams is a Democrat.

    Carel Mountain, of Fair Oaks, has been reappointed to the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians, where she has served since 2018. Mountain has been an Assistant Professor of Nursing at California State University, Sacramento since 2022. She was an Adjunct Faculty Member at Pacific Union College from 1997 to 2023. Mountain was Director of Nursing at Sacramento City College from 2016 to 2022. She was an On-Line Instructor for the University of Phoenix from 2006 to 2019. Mountain was a Professor at Shasta College from 1997 to 2016. She is a member of the National League of Nursing and California Organization of Associate Degree Nursing Educators. Mountain earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from California State University, Fresno, a Master of Science degree in Nursing Administration and Education from California State University, Sonoma, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Relations from Pacific Union College. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Mountain is a Democrat.

    Gloria Gregoria Guzman, of Bakersfield, has been reappointed to the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians, where she has been serving since 2023. Guzman has been a Licensed Vocational Nurse at Kaiser Permanente since 1989. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Guzman is a Democrat.

    Aleta Carpenter, of Redding, has been reappointed to the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians, where she has served since 2016. Carpenter has been a Consultant at ACE Communications since 2013. She was a Community Education Specialist II for the Public Health Department at the Shasta County Health and Human Services Agency from 2007 to 2012. Carpenter was a Lobbyist and Partner at Carpenter, Snodgrass and Associates from 1982 to 2003. She is the Chair of the Youth Violence Prevention Council/Youth Options Shasta and Shasta County Tobacco Education Coalition, School Board Member for the California Heritage YouthBuild Academy, and Member of the Shasta Environmental Alliance and the Redding Community Grant Advisory Committee. Carpenter earned a Master of Arts degree and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies from California State University, Sacramento. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Carpenter is a Democrat.

    Seyron Foo, of Los Angeles, has been reappointed to the Board of Psychology, where he has served since 2017. Foo has been Senior Program Officer at the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation since 2022, where he was previously Senior Advocacy Officer from 2020 to 2022. He held several positions at Southern California Grantmakers from 2016 to 2020, including Vice President of Public Policy and Government Relations, Director of Public Policy and Government Relations, and Senior Manager of Public Policy and Government Relations. Foo was a Senior Policy Analyst for the Director’s Office at the City of Long Beach Public Works Department from 2015 to 2016. He was a David M. Wodynski Memorial Fellow at the Long Beach City Manager’s Office from 2014 to 2015. Foo held multiple positions for Senate Majority Leader Ellen M. Corbett in the California State Senate from 2009 to 2012, including Legislative Aide and Senate Fellow. Foo earned a Master in Public Affairs degree from Princeton University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Rhetoric and Political Science from University of California, Berkeley. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Foo is a Democrat.

    Mary Harb Sheets, of San Diego, has been reappointed to the Board of Psychology, where she has served since 2018. Harb Sheets has been a Self-Employed Clinical Psychologist since 1994. She was a Senior Consultant and Staff Psychologist at Workplace Guardians, Inc. from 2000 to 2023. Harb Sheets was an Adjunct Faculty Member in Advanced Law and Ethics at Alliant University from 2012 to 2018. She was a Counseling Psychologist and Adjunct Faculty Member at California State University, San Diego from 1990 to 1998. Harb Sheets was a Registered Psychological Assistant for Gary De Voss, Ph.D. from 1992 to 1994. She earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree and a Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from California State University, San Diego. Harb Sheets is a member of the American Psychological Association, California Psychological Association, National Register of Health Services Psychologists, and San Diego Psychological Association. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Harb Sheets is a Democrat.

    Press releases, Recent news

    Recent news

    May 22, 2025

    News What you need to know: The state today began restoring shallow water habitats in the Salton Sea as part of California’s first major habitat restoration project in the region – a key step for improving local wildlife conditions and suppressing dust to improve air…

    May 22, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom announced California will fight the U.S. Senate’s illegal vote aiming to undo key parts of the state’s clean vehicles program in court. SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta announced today the…

    May 22, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Pacific Coast Highway, which was closed following the Palisades Fire, will reopen to public travel ahead of schedule this Friday in advance of Memorial Day Holiday.  LOS ANGELES – Following through on his commitment to reopen a critical…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Northeast emerging as strategic hub for energy and semiconductors: PM Modi

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the inaugural session of the Rising North East Summit at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, said the Northeast is fast emerging as a key destination for two strategic sectors—energy and semiconductors.
     
    He highlighted the government’s major thrust on infrastructure and green energy in the region, noting that significant investments have already been approved for hydropower and solar projects across all eight Northeastern states. “Several thousand crore worth of projects have been sanctioned, marking a new chapter in the region’s development journey,” he said.
     
    The Prime Minister further underlined the potential of the region beyond just power generation. He pointed to new avenues in the manufacturing of solar modules, cells, energy storage systems, and research and development. He emphasized that boosting self-sufficiency in these sectors would help India reduce its dependence on foreign imports.
     
    Speaking on the semiconductor sector, the Prime Minister said Assam is playing an increasingly vital role in strengthening India’s chip-making ecosystem. He announced that the first “Made in India” semiconductor chip from a Northeast-based plant will soon be launched. “This is a historic milestone that opens new opportunities for high-end technology and places the Northeast on the map of India’s high-tech industrial growth,” he added.
     
    He said, “The Rising Northeast is not just an investors’ summit—it is a movement. It is a call to action. India’s future will rise even higher through the prosperity of the Northeast.”
     
    Expressing confidence in the business leaders present at the summit, he urged them to join hands in driving the region’s development forward. He also reiterated his government’s commitment to transforming the Northeast, referred to as “Ashtalakshmi,” into a driving force behind the vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India).

  • Op Sindoor outreach: Russia stands in solidarity with India for elimination of terrorism

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Condemning the heinous April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Russia on Friday said that it stands in solidarity with India for elimination of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Moscow’s stand was conveyed as an all-party delegation from India, led by DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, met with senior members of the Russian Federation Council, including Andrey Denisov, First Deputy Chair of the Committee on International Affairs in the Russian capital to reaffirm the united stand against terrorism.

    “The All-Party Delegation led by Hon’ble MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi in the Federation Council of the Russian Federation met with First Deputy Chair of the Committee on International Affairs H.E. Mr. Andrey Denisov and other senators. The Russian side condemned the terrorist attack in Pahalgam and stated that Russia stands in solidarity with India for elimination of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations! Russia and India have shared position in the fight against terrorism,” the Embassy of India in Russia posted on X.

    “Together in the fight against terrorism!”, the post added.

    Earlier in the day, the delegation was briefed by Indian Ambassador to Russia Vinay Kumar on various aspects of bilateral relations ahead of their commencement of official engagements highlighting India’s strong resolve in fighting terrorism in all its forms under the global outreach campaign of Operation Sindoor.

    “Ambassador Vinay Kumar briefs MPs Kanimozhi, Rajeev Rai, Brijesh Chowta, Prem Chand Gupta, Ashok Kumar Mittal and Ambassador Manjeev Puri on various aspects of India-Russia relations, before they start the official engagements,” the Embassy of India in Russia posted on X.

    Earlier on Friday, the third high-level delegation led by Kanimozhi arrived in Moscow to convey India’s firm stance in combating terrorism and was received by Indian Ambassador Vinay Kumar.

    The delegation led by Kanimozhi Karunanidhi includes Samajwadi Party MP Rajeev Rai, BJP MP Captain Brijesh Chowta (Retd.); RJD MP Prem Chand Gupta, AAP MP Ashok Kumar Mittal, and former Ambassador of India to the EU, Belgium, Luxembourg and Nepal; Former Deputy Permanent Representative of India to the UN, Ambassador Manjeev Singh Puri.

    “On arrival at Moscow’s Domodedovo Airport the Members of Parliament Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, Rajeev Rai, Captain Brijesh Chowta, Prem Chand Gupta, Ashok Kumar Mittal, Ambassador Manjeev Singh Puri, welcomed by Ambassador of India to Russia Vinay Kumar A busy schedule of meetings and interactions awaits them in Moscow on 23-24 May 2025,” the Indian Embassy in Russia posted on X.

    “In the context of the Indian government’s continued efforts under Operation Sindoor and in furtherance of India’s principled and resolute stand against the menace of terrorism, an All-Party Delegation comprising Members of Parliament and a senior diplomat is undertaking a visit to Russia from May 22 to May 24, 2025. The delegation would carry forth the country’s strong message of zero-tolerance for terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” the Embassy of India in Russia said in a statement on Thursday.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former FBI Director Airs Warning About Elder Fraud

    Source: US FBI

    The Websters are among millions of older Americans targeted each year in elder fraud schemes like bogus lottery and romance scams. Fraudsters string along victims with promises of love or riches in exchange for cash advances or assistance moving illegal funds. Losses from these types of scams reach into the hundreds of millions each year and are increasing as the U.S. population ages.

    The Websters’ case was featured on fbi.gov in 2019 and garnered national attention. The couple hopes the new public service announcement (PSA) will remind older people, their families, and caregivers that they need to maintain their guard against sophisticated schemes.

    “Since we have become involved with this issue, we’ve heard sad stories of millions of dollars stolen, lives threatened, and even suicides,” Lynda Webster said. “My husband has been targeted for years. And when one scammer threatened our lives we knew we had to act.”

    The PSA includes archival images of Webster as a Navy officer in World War II and Korea and later as a federal judge and head of the country’s premier intelligence and law enforcement agencies. The scammer who targeted the Websters didn’t know this background, just that Judge Webster was older and might therefore be susceptible to cons that prey on traits like trustworthiness, loneliness, and a yearning for more financial security.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Indian Citizen Charged in Multimillion-Dollar Health Care Fraud Scheme

    Source: US FBI

    Owned lab in Everett, WA that billed Medicare $8.7 million for COVID tests that were never legitimately ordered or performed

    Seattle – An Indian national indicted for health care fraud will make his initial appearance today in U.S. District Court in Seattle, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Mohammed Asif, 34, was arrested on April 10, 2025, at Chicago O’Hare International Airport while attempting to board an international flight. Asif is charged with health care fraud and conspiracy to commit health care fraud in connection with the operation of American Labworks LLC, a diagnostic testing laboratory in Everett, Washington. The indictment alleges that Asif conspired with others to bill Medicare for COVID-19 tests and other respiratory illness tests that had not been ordered or performed.

    “Medicare provides critical funding for senior citizens’ health care needs, which makes this type of fraud all the more reprehensible,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Miller. “This case stands as an example of how federal law enforcement is working diligently to protect those critical tax dollars from fraud schemes.”

    According to the indictment and an earlier-filed criminal complaint, the Washington Secretary of State has American Labworks being formed in October 2021 and dissolved in March 2025. Washington Department of Health records indicate that its license as a Medical Test Site expired in December 2023. Asif is listed in filings with the state and with Medicare as the owner and director of American Labworks.

    Claims data from April 2024 to December 2024 show that American Labworks billed Medicare more than $8.7 million for laboratory testing services, including for COVID-19 testing. Medicare paid out over $1.1 million to the lab.

    Between June 2024 and March 2025, Medicare received more than 200 complaints from enrollees and others about American Labworks. Many of these complainants reported that Medicare was billed for testing that was never received. For example, one Medicare enrollee noted that Medicare paid American Labworks $545 for COVID-19 tests in August 2023 and March 2024. But the beneficiary had never had any COVID-19 tests on those dates. Multiple Medicare beneficiaries said they too had seen bills for tests that never occurred. Physicians who had allegedly ordered the tests said they had not sent patients to American Labworks, and many patients said they had never heard of the referring physician listed in the records.

    In some instances, the billing records indicated a beneficiary’s testing date of service occurred after other records indicated the beneficiary was dead. And in other instances, the physician who allegedly referred the patient for testing was dead at the time of the date of service.

    Financial records indicate Mohammed Asif received multiple checks and made withdrawals from the American Labworks bank account, which he controlled. In May 2024, he withdrew $260,000 from the American Labworks checking account. Soon after that Asif, who had been in the U.S. on a student visa, retuned to India. He came back to the U.S. in March 2025 as investigators were unraveling the fraud. Prosecutors and special agents with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) moved quickly to draft the criminal complaint and take Asif into custody. A grand jury then returned the indictment of Asif on April 23.

    Asif is alleged to have conspired with other people to accomplish the fraud. Those coconspirators are not named in the criminal complaint or indictment. The government’s investigation is ongoing.

    “By all appearances, there is nothing legitimate about Mr. Asif’s company.” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “Mr. Asif, along with his co-conspirators, used this apparently illegitimate company to fraudulently bill Medicare almost $9 million for tests that were never done. When we receive allegations such as these, the FBI and our partners will aggressively investigate potential fraud against the US taxpayer.”

    “Through this scheme to fraudulently bill Medicare for laboratory testing services never furnished, the defendant diverted taxpayer money that was meant to pay for legitimate medical services,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Robb Breeden of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who exploit federal health care programs for their own personal gain.”

    Health care fraud and conspiracy to commit health care fraud are punishable by up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

    The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    The case is being investigated by HHS-OIG and the FBI.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Philip Kopczynski.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Columbus Woman Pleads Guilty to Kidnapping Infant Twins

    Source: US FBI

    COLUMBUS, Ohio – A Columbus woman pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court today to two counts of kidnapping a minor.

    As part of the plea, parties involved in the case have recommended a sentence of 20 years in prison for Nalah T. Jackson, 25.

    “There is no greater responsibility than protecting our youth,” said U.S. Attorney Kenneth L. Parker. “This community watched in horror as Nalah Jackson preyed on two vulnerable babies. Today, she admitted her crime and agreed to spend 20 years in prison for her actions.” 

    According to court documents, between Dec. 19, 2022, and Dec. 22, 2022, Jackson kidnapped two minor children in Columbus and traveled interstate with one of them. 

    Specifically, close to 10pm on the night of Dec. 19, Jackson walked out of Donatos Pizza on North High Street in Columbus and drove away in a black Honda Accord that had been left running in the parking lot. Two twin five-month-old infants were buckled in the back seat. The infants’ mother was inside Donatos to pick up a delivery order at the time.

    Over the next several hours, Jackson drove from Columbus to Dayton and to various other locations in central and western Ohio.

    Jackson arrived at the Dayton International Airport close to 3am. She parked in an economy lot and left the infants in the car while she entered the airport. Jackson attempted to hire an Uber to find the stolen car in the economy lot, but could not pay, and ultimately found the stolen car on foot. After finding the vehicle, Jackson left one of the infants in the parking lot at approximately 4am. A passerby parking their vehicle saw the baby in his car seat wrapped in a quilt between two vehicles and alerted security.

    After Jackson left the Dayton International Airport parking lot at high speeds, she traveled to Indianapolis with the second baby still in the vehicle.

    She arrived at a Papa Johns Pizza on Indiana Avenue near the university district at approximately 8am on Dec. 20, and exited the stolen car on foot. She never returned to the vehicle, leaving the second baby strapped in his car seat in the back seat of the car.

    The baby remained strapped in the car seat for the next two-and-a-half-days while family members, concerned citizens and law enforcement officers continued to search for him.

    By happenstance, an Indianapolis woman encountered Jackson after she abandoned the stolen vehicle on Dec. 20. Jackson was selling stolen merchandise outside of a local gas station. The woman gave Jackson a ride to a nearby shopping plaza and gave Jackson her cell phone number in case Jackson came across any more holiday gifts for resale.

    That night, the woman noticed several social media posts regarding the kidnapping and recognized Jackson as the alleged kidnapper. The woman called her cousin, and together they formulated a plan to meet up with Jackson to confirm her identity, recover the infant if possible and lead Jackson to law enforcement.

    On Dec. 22, the women met up with Jackson, whom they traced to a local residence through a phone number Jackson had previously used to call one of them. The women confirmed that Jackson was the same person identified as the kidnapping suspect and drove her to several shopping centers in Indianapolis, all-the-while surreptitiously attempting to contact law enforcement in Columbus and Indianapolis.

    Eventually, one of the women was able to route local law enforcement to their vehicle over the phone by pretending that she was speaking with her boyfriend and providing updates on her location. The women tried to signal to Indianapolis police that Jackson was the kidnapping suspect, and eventually told officers when they were removed from Jackson’s immediate presence.  Jackson provided a false name and another individual’s identification card to the officers. After some time, the officers confirmed Jackson’s identity and arrested her for kidnapping. After the arrest, they let the two women go without interviewing them about their time spent with Jackson.

    The two women decided to continue searching for the missing infant. They discovered a bus schedule that Jackson left behind in the backseat of their vehicle and decided to focus their search on a bus route near the university district.

    While driving around searching that area to no avail, and with driving conditions worsening quickly due to an impending snowstorm, the women decided to get something to eat before heading home. As they were pulling into a Blaze Pizza, they noticed a black Honda Accord at the nearby Papa Johns and noticed snow had already accumulated on the car.

    They drove up to the stolen car and attempted to open the back door, which was locked. The driver’s door did open. Due to an overwhelming foul smell coming from the car, and the silence of the baby, one of the women screamed, assuming the baby was deceased. Upon hearing the scream, the baby alerted and began crying. One of the women removed the baby from his car seat and began comforting him.

    The women then noticed an empty Indianapolis police cruiser parked nearby and began looking for officers, who they found on their lunch break inside the Blaze Pizza. Indianapolis police then relocated to Papa Johns Pizza and took custody of the baby, taking him to a local hospital. The infant was treated for dehydration, heart abnormalities due to the dehydration, extreme diaper rash and skin deterioration due to him being buckled in a car seat for three days while sitting in his own excrement.

    U.S. Attorney Parker acknowledged the numerous law enforcement agencies who have assisted in this case, including FBI offices in Columbus, Dayton and Indianapolis; the Columbus, Dayton, Huber Heights, Riverside, Vandalia, Dayton International Airport and Indianapolis police departments; the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office; Ohio State Highway Patrol and U.S. Marshals Service’s Southern Ohio Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team (SOFAST).

    Assistant United States Attorneys Emily K. Czerniejewski and Noah R. Litton are representing the United States in this case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Ferocity, fitness and fast bowling: how Virat Kohli revolutionised Indian cricket

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Vaughan Cruickshank, Senior Lecturer in Health and Physical Education, University of Tasmania

    Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket on Monday.

    While his Instagram message just said this was the “right time”, his poor recent Test form, mental fatigue and desire to spend more time with his family, charity foundation and expanding business empire have been suggested as other influential factors.

    During his 14-year Test career “King Kohli” has been the backbone of the Indian batting line-up, and his absence is a huge blow as the Indians prepare to tour England next month.

    The megastar scored 9,230 runs in 123 Tests at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries.

    These numbers put him in the top five Indian test batsmen of all time, but his legacy extends far beyond his batting achievements.

    Kohli, 36, quit Twenty20 Internationals last year (after India won its second world title). He may continue to play one-day internationals.

    Rising to the top of Test cricket

    Kohli has been the greatest Indian batsman of his generation.

    He made his Test debut in 2011 against the West Indies and played his final match against Australia in January.

    He scored centuries against every country he played against, with more than half of these coming overseas.

    His seven Test centuries in Australia is the second most by an overseas batsman.

    He was at his peak between 2014 and 2019, when he averaged more than 60 in Test cricket and became one of the “fab four” (the world’s best Test batsmen) alongside Steve Smith, Kane Williamson and Joe Root.



    Read more:
    Is Steve Smith set to become the best? What data says about Test cricket’s elite 10,000+ run club

    This period also included six double-hundreds in 18 months, and 13 months as the number one ranked Test batsman in the world.

    Kohli the leader

    Kohli is India’s greatest ever Test captain.

    His tenure from 2014 to 2022 was a golden age for Indian Test cricket.

    India won 40 of 68 Tests (59%) in this period and did not lose a Test series at home. India was the number one ranked Test team in the world from 2016–20 and won its first Test series in Australia in 2018–19.

    These statistics make Kohli one of the most successful Test captains of all time.

    Beyond these numbers, he was a charismatic and aggressive captain who redefined India’s approach to Test cricket by bringing a more competitive edge to the team.

    He drove higher expectations around fitness, training intensity and fast bowling that continue to shape Indian cricket.

    Mandatory fitness testing and improved dieting and recovery practices, which redefined the team’s standards, are attributed to Kohli’s leadership.

    Similarly, Indian success was strongly contributed to by Kohli encouraging the development of a world-class pace bowling attack, which marked a significant shift from the spin-heavy approach of Indian cricket.

    Controversies

    While Kohli’s energy, passion and intensity contributed to his success as batsman and captain, they also led to numerous confrontations with opposition players, which some believed to be disrespectful and arrogant.

    His intense celebrations and assertive body language also drew criticism from conservative cricketing audiences.

    Kohli’s collision with Sam Konstas during the Boxing Day Test versus Australia.

    Many of these controversies have occurred in Australia, where Kohli enjoyed a love-hate relationship with Australian players and crowds.

    Examples include flipping the bird to the crowd, making sandpaper gestures (in reference to the 2018 Australian ball tampering scandal, also known as Sandpapergate) and shoulder-barging young Australian batsman Sam Konstas.

    What will his Test legacy be?

    For more than a decade, Kohli has been the heartbeat of the Indian Test team, and his retirement marks the end of an era.

    He reshaped the mindset of Indian cricket and cultivated a faster, fitter, fiercer, more successful team.

    Kohli was also one of the greatest ambassadors of Test cricket, and has played a significant role in ensuring the game remains relevant in an era increasingly dominated by T20 cricket.

    He made Test cricket aspirational again because he wanted it to thrive. He knew India needed to dominate the hardest format to be respected.

    His social media reach (272 million followers on Instagram and 67.8 million on X) is more than Tiger Woods, LeBron James and Tom Brady combined, and was even referred to by LA2028 Olympics organisers when they announced cricket’s entry into the games.

    In recent days, Kohli has been described as “a modern-day giant”, a “provocateur in chief”, and “his generation’s most profound figure”.

    Love him or hate him, he elevated the spectacle of Test cricket. His electric energy brought the best out of India and its opponents and made him impossible to ignore when batting or fielding.

    As respected cricket writer Peter Lalor noted recently:

    Nobody is irreplaceable, but nobody can replace Virat.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Ferocity, fitness and fast bowling: how Virat Kohli revolutionised Indian cricket – https://theconversation.com/ferocity-fitness-and-fast-bowling-how-virat-kohli-revolutionised-indian-cricket-256560

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: South Yorkshire to benefit from recent trade deals

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    South Yorkshire to benefit from recent trade deals

    Trade deals with India, US and the EU that have seen tariffs on key industries slashed are set to help drive growth in South Yorkshire.

    • Prime Minister to meet with the Mayor of South Yorkshire Oliver Coppard to discuss the benefits of his recent trade deals.  
    • Comes as we’ve nailed three trade deals in as many weeks to deliver growth that is a priority for the Plan for Change.   
    • Delivers job security for 5,000 workers in the region and will create more highly skilled jobs in communities.

    Trade deals with India, US and the EU that have seen tariffs on key industries slashed are set to help drive growth in South Yorkshire. 
      
    Reductions in tariffs on the steel and auto exports have provided security for nearly 5,000 workers, their families and the biggest two employers in the region.  

    It also will deliver opportunities for major job creators like Rolls Royce and Mclaren based in Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District to grow – a priority of our Plan for Change

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    These trade deals deliver long term security for nearly 5,000 workers, their families and for steel and auto manufacturing in South Yorkshire.  

    It also will create opportunities for more seamless trade, attracting inward investment that will grow the local economy and make a difference to people’s lives.   

    These changes will be felt everywhere, whether it’s lower food prices at the checkout, more choice for consumers and higher living standards that will improve livelihoods across South Yorkshire.

    Over 31,000 people employed in agriculture across the region will also benefit from our agreement with the EU, which reduces red tape and burdens on business, meaning regional specialties like crab, Yorkshire Pudding and cheeses will face easy access to the UK’s biggest trading market. 

    The agreement also protects British steel exports from new EU rules and restrictive, providing further security for 8,400 jobs in the steel industry across Yorkshire and the Humber. 

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    The three landmark deals secured this month with the US, India, and the EU have shown this government is serious about striking the deals that our businesses want and need. 

    We are delivering billions for the UK economy and wages every year as part of our Plan for Change. For businesses in South Yorkshire, these deals will mean stability and jobs protected as they seize new opportunities to sell to some of our biggest trading partners.

    The Prime Minister will tell the English Mayors and the Leaders from the Devolved Governments at a meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions in London today (Friday 23 May) that his trade deals with India, the United States and the EU will deliver economic growth that will improve people’s lives at home.   

    He will challenge those in attendance to drive economic growth in their local areas to deliver for working people.   

    Liam Bates, President of Long Products, Marcegaglia said:

    The intention to remove tariffs is a very positive step, which when implemented secures both our own production in USA as well as our customers. 

    Getting this deal across the line needs to be a priority, because supply chains are currently in a state of flux awaiting the details and the effective date.

    Our increased trade with India will unlock opportunities for every region in the UK to access the world’s fastest growing economy, including South Yorkshire.  

    Under the Free Trade Deal that was concluded, tariffs on cars sold to India will come down from over 100% to 10% under a quota.  

    In the same week, we negotiated a first of its kind agreement with the US that reduces tariffs on car exports to 10% for the first 100,000 vehicles per year, almost the total number of UK vehicles exported to the country last year.  

    Both of these deals secure greater certainty for the sector, the 5,000 workers in South Yorkshire and their families, while also enhancing opportunities for manufacturing in the region to grow. 

    Just this week, the Prime Minister continued to act in Britain’s national interest by confirming a new agreement that will deliver on his core mission to grow the economy, creating more jobs in South Yorkshire, raising living standards and putting more money in people’s pockets.   

    At today’s meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions the Prime Minister will also lead discussions about spreading AI to help working people access the services that they need in their local areas.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Ministry of Earth Sciences (India)

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Mission

    The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) is an executive ministry of the Government of India, established on 29 January, 2006.

    The Ministry of Earth Sciences is mandated to provide services for weather, climate, ocean and coastal state, hydrology, seismology, and natural hazards; to explore and harness marine living and non-living resources in a sustainable manner for the country and to explore the three poles of the Earth (Arctic, Antarctic and Himalayas).

    MoES was formerly the Department of Ocean Development (DOD), which was created in July 1981 as a part of the Cabinet Secretariat directly under the charge of the Prime Minister of India. It came into existence as a separate department in March 1982. The erstwhile DOD functioned as a nodal institution for organizing, coordinating and promoting ocean development activities in the country. The Government of India notified DOD as the Ministry of Ocean Development in February 2006.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Football match gets ‘M’ Mark status

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Major Sports Events Committee announced today that it has awarded “M” Mark status to the Defining Education Challenge Cup – Hong Kong, China vs Manchester United, scheduled to take place on May 30 at Hong Kong Stadium.

    Major Sports Events Committee Chairman Wilfred Ng said that Manchester United is returning to Hong Kong to showcase their skills in an exciting match against Team Hong Kong, China.

    “It not only promotes local football development, but also showcases Hong Kong’s vitality and strengthens its status as the centre for major international sports events,” he added.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Georgia: Women protesters targeted with escalating gender-based violence – new briefing

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Sexist insults, threats of sexual violence and unlawful and degrading strip searches against women protesters

    Opposition leader, Elene Khoshtaria, described being violently restrained by police, stripped and forced to lie naked on the floor during detention on 28 March 2025

    Full undressing during searches violates Georgian and international human rights law

    Amnesty witnessed police officers calling women protesters “whores” and threatening them and their family members

    ‘The Georgian authorities must immediately end all forms of gender-based reprisals and all unlawful use of force by law enforcement, investigate every allegation of abuse during the protests, and ensure accountability at all levels’ – Denis Krivosheev

    Police in Georgia are increasingly using gender-based violence including sexist insults, threats of sexual violence and unlawful and degrading strip searches against women involved in protests as part of their larger campaign to intimidate and punish peaceful protestors, Amnesty International said in a new briefing published today.

    Scenes of police brutality as well as violent physical attacks by unidentified individuals against peaceful protestors in Georgia have become disturbingly common since a powerful surge of pro-European, anti-government protests broke out in the country last year. Defying state repression, women protesters have become symbols of courage – but also the target of humiliation, abuse and psychological violence both by law enforcement officers and unidentified assistants.

    Denis Krivosheev, Amnesty International’s Eastern Europe and Central Asia Deputy Director, said:

    “The authorities may have hoped that by targeting women with threats of sexual violence, raids in their homes, unlawful strip searches, and arbitrary detention, they would crush the spirit of resistance, deter protesters from further gatherings, and silence them. Instead, women in Georgia have risen more boldly, denouncing the abuse, demanding justice and turning repressions into resistance and defiance.

    “Unlawful, invasive and degrading strip searches in Georgia appear to be being weaponised to humiliate and intimidate protestors, especially women. This is a clear violation of both domestic and international law. The Georgian authorities must immediately end all forms of gender-based reprisals and all unlawful use of force by law enforcement, investigate every allegation of abuse during the protests, and ensure accountability at all levels.”

    State violence and dehumanising strip searches

    In recent months, Amnesty has documented numerous accounts of protesters subjected to sexist insults and threats of sexual violence, as well as humiliating strip searches. Such treatment appears to be increasingly targeting women protesters and affecting them disproportionately. These abuses not only violate Georgian law, which prohibits full undressing during searches, but also international human rights law and standards aimed at safeguarding human dignity and protecting people from gender-based violence.

    Elene Khoshtaria, an opposition leader, described being violently restrained by police, stripped and forced to lie naked on the floor during detention on 28 March 2025. Despite her medical condition, officers denied her access to medication and restrooms even after she developed hypertension and suffered repeated vomiting.

    Kristina Botkoveli, a co-founder of a protest Facebook group, was forced to strip naked in front of her elderly mother, in addition to being subjected to threats during a raid by police on their home on 1 February 2025. Kristina suffered a panic attack requiring emergency medical care.

    Activist Nino Makharadze was detained during a peaceful protest on 13 January 2025 and subjected to an invasive strip search in a temporary detention centre. She was not allowed to inform her family and friends of her whereabouts and was only given access to her lawyer after the strip search. On 5 May, she reported being ambushed along with two women friends while returning home from a protest. An unknown assailant sprayed them with pepper spray and green paint while hurling insults. All three women reportedly sustained injuries, including chemical burns that required hospitalisation.

    Verbal abuse and gendered intimidation

    Sexist verbal abuse and threats of sexual violence against peaceful protesters are another common tactic used by law enforcement to intimidate and harass. During the 2 February 2025 demonstration near Tbilisi Mall, an Amnesty representative witnessed police officers calling women protesters “whores” and threatening them and their family members. Several women also reported being threatened with rape by masked officers.

    Natia Dzidziguri, after being detained during protests on 19 November 2024, was forced to kneel in a police van surrounded by men while officers hurled sexually charged insults and gestures at her.

    Mzia Amaghlobeli, a prominent journalist, was detained twice on 11 January 2025 during peaceful protests. On both occasions, she was subjected to sexist abuse by police, with the Batumi police chief allegedly spitting on her and threatening violence. The authorities have used the video in which Mzia Amaghlobeli smacks the police chief, following their verbal altercation, to prosecute her. They have ignored the video in which the police chief hurls sexist insults and verbal abuse at her. Mzia Amaghlobeli was remanded in custody following a swift hearing during which she faced further injustice in court when the judge refused to admit any of her defence evidence. The authorities to date have failed to investigate any police officers who allegedly ill-treated and otherwise abused her and other protesters. Not a single officer against whom serious allegations have been made, by Mzia Amaghlobeli or others, was suspended from their duties during the investigation.

    A pattern of abuse

    These reports are not isolated but appear to form a broader pattern of abuse by and impunity for Georgia’s law enforcement agencies. The humiliation, sexist rhetoric and physical violence directed at women protesters in Georgia align with broader efforts to intimidate those participating in ongoing protests. Local human rights defenders highlight that many victims of humiliating treatment by police, both women and men, remain silent out of fear or shame.

    Such actions may constitute torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment and violate not only Georgia’s Constitution and national legislation but also its obligations under international law, including the UN Convention Against Torture, and international standards.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Georgia: Women protesters are targeted with escalating violence and gender-based reprisals

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Police in Georgia are increasingly using gender-based violence including sexist insults, threats of sexual violence and unlawful and degrading strip searches against women involved in protests as part of their larger campaign to intimidate and punish peaceful protestors, Amnesty International said in a new briefing published today.

    Scenes of police brutality as well as violent physical attacks by unidentified individuals against peaceful protestors in Georgia have become disturbingly common since a powerful surge of pro-European, anti-government protests broke out in the country last year. Defying state repression, women protesters have become symbols of courage – but also the target of humiliation, abuse and psychological violence both by law enforcement officers and unidentified assistants.

    “The authorities may have hoped that by targeting women with threats of sexual violence, raids in their homes, unlawful strip searches, and arbitrary detention, they would crush the spirit of resistance, deter protesters from further gatherings, and silence them. Instead, women in Georgia have risen more boldly, denouncing the abuse, demanding justice and turning repressions into resistance and defiance,” said Denis Krivosheev, Amnesty International’s Eastern Europe and Central Asia Deputy Director.

    State violence and dehumanizing strip searches

    In recent months, Amnesty International has documented numerous accounts of protesters subjected to sexist insults and threats of sexual violence, as well as humiliating strip searches. Such treatment appears to be increasingly targeting women protesters and affecting them disproportionately. These abuses not only violate Georgian law, which prohibits full undressing during searches, but also international human rights law and standards aimed at safeguarding human dignity and protecting people from gender-based violence.

    Elene Khoshtaria, an opposition leader, described being violently restrained by police, stripped and forced to lie naked on the floor during detention on 28 March 2025. Despite her medical condition, officers denied her access to medication and restrooms even after she developed hypertension and suffered repeated vomiting.

    Kristina Botkoveli, a co-founder of a protest Facebook group, was forced to strip naked in front of her elderly mother, in addition to being subjected to threats during a raid by police on their home on 1 February 2025. Kristina suffered a panic attack requiring emergency medical care.

    Activist Nino Makharadze was detained during a peaceful protest on 13 January 2025 and subjected to an invasive strip search in a temporary detention centre. She was not allowed to inform her family and friends of her whereabouts and was only given access to her lawyer after the strip search. On 5 May, she reported being ambushed along with two women friends while returning home from a protest. An unknown assailant sprayed them with pepper spray and green paint while hurling insults. All three women reportedly sustained injuries, including chemical burns that required hospitalization.

    Verbal abuse and gendered intimidation

    Sexist verbal abuse and threats of sexual violence against peaceful protesters are another common tactic used by law enforcement to intimidate and harass. During the 2 February 2025 demonstration near Tbilisi Mall, an Amnesty International representative witnessed police officers calling women protesters “whores” and threatening them and their family members. Several women also reported being threatened with rape by masked officers.

    Natia Dzidziguri, after being detained during protests on 19 November 2024, was forced to kneel in a police van surrounded by men while officers hurled sexually charged insults and gestures at her.

    Mzia Amaghlobeli, a prominent journalist, was detained twice on 11 January 2025 during peaceful protests. On both occasions, she was subjected to sexist abuse by police, with the Batumi police chief allegedly spitting on her and threatening violence. The authorities have used the video in which Mzia Amaghlobeli smacks the police chief, following their verbal altercation, to prosecute her. They have ignored the video in which the police chief hurls sexist insults and verbal abuse at her.Mzia Amaghlobeli was remanded in custody following a swift hearing during which she faced further injustice in court when the judge refused to admit any of her defence evidence. The authorities to date, have failed to investigate any police officers who allegedly ill-treated and otherwise abused her and other protesters. Not a single officer against whom serious allegations have been made, by Mzia Amaghlobeli or others, was suspended in their duties during the investigation

    A pattern of abuse, not isolated incidents

    These reports are not isolated but appear to form a broader pattern of abuse by and impunity for Georgia’s law enforcement agencies. The humiliation, sexist rhetoric and physical violence directed at women protesters in Georgia align with broader efforts to intimidate those participating in ongoing protests. Local human rights defenders highlight that many victims of humiliating treatment by police, both women and men, remain silent out of fear or shame.

    Such actions may constitute torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment and violate not only Georgia’s Constitution and national legislation but also its obligations under international law, including the UN Convention Against Torture, and international standards.

    “Unlawful, invasive and degrading strip searches in Georgia appear to be being weaponized to humiliate and intimidate protestors, especially women This is a clear violation of both domestic and international law. The Georgian authorities must immediately end all forms of gender-based reprisals and all unlawful use of force by law enforcement, investigate every allegation of abuse during the protests, and ensure accountability at all levels,” said Denis Krivosheev.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office and FBI Charge Nageezi Man with Sexual Abuse

    Source: US FBI

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Nageezi man has been charged with sexual abuse and abusive sexual contact in Indian Country.

    Patrick Wayne Platero, 46, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, appeared before a federal judge and will remain in the third-party custody of La Pasada halfway house pending trial, which has not been scheduled.

    According to the indictment, between on or about January 1, 2024, and on or about April 30, 2024, Platero allegedly sexually abused and engaged in abusive sexual contact with Jane Doe.

    If convicted, Platero faces up to life in prison followed by not less than five years and up to life on supervised release.

    U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

    The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Department of Investigation and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Meg Tomlinson is prosecuting the case.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • Stock markets rally nearly 1% backed by strong domestic indicators

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian equity markets ended the week on a positive note, with key indices registering sharp gains on Friday amid firm global cues and robust domestic macroeconomic indicators.

    The BSE Sensex surged 769.09 points, or 0.95 per cent, to close at 81,721.08. The index touched an intraday high of 81,905.17 and a low of 80,897.00 during the session. The NSE Nifty also saw notable gains, climbing 243.45 points, or 0.99 per cent, to settle at 24,853.15.

    Market analysts attributed the uptrend to buying in IT, FMCG, banking and financial stocks, as well as renewed optimism over India’s fiscal outlook.

    “The index has moved higher after finding support at the 21-day exponential moving average (EMA). Broadly, the Nifty appears to be consolidating within the 24,700 to 25,000 range,” said Rupak De, Senior Technical Analyst at LKP Securities. He added that the short-term trend remains positive and momentum could pick up further if the index crosses the 25,000 mark.

    The broader markets also mirrored the upbeat sentiment. The Nifty Midcap100 rose by 0.64 per cent, while the Nifty Smallcap100 gained 0.80 per cent—indicating strength across the board.

    On the Sensex, 29 of the 30 constituents ended in the green. Sun Pharma was the sole laggard, falling 2.14 per cent after the company reported a dip in net profit for the fourth quarter.

    Among the top gainers were shares of Eternal, Power Grid, ITC, Bajaj Finserv, and Nestle India, which advanced between 1.83 per cent and 3.6 per cent.

    Sector-wise, Nifty FMCG and Nifty Private Bank led the gains, rising 1.63 per cent and 1.08 per cent, respectively. Other sectors including IT, financial services, metal, PSU bank, oil & gas, and realty also closed in positive territory with gains of up to 0.95 per cent.

    On the other hand, Nifty Pharma and Nifty Healthcare were the only two indices that ended in the red, with marginal declines of 0.41 per cent and 0.01 per cent, respectively.

    Experts said investor sentiment was supported by optimism over ongoing US-India trade negotiations and expectations of a record-high dividend payout by the Reserve Bank of India, which could aid fiscal consolidation efforts.

    “Investor attention is revolving around US-India trade talks and the strength of domestic economic indicators,” said Vinod Nair, Head of Research at Geojit Financial Services.

    (IANS)

  • Astronomers spot galaxy shaped like the Milky Way but is far more massive

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Astronomers have observed a galaxy dating to an earlier epoch in the universe’s history that surprisingly is shaped much like our Milky Way – a spiral structure with a straight bar of stars and gas running through its center – but far more massive, offering new insight into galactic formation.

    The distant galaxy, called J0107a, was observed as it appeared 11.1 billion years ago, when the universe was about a fifth of its current age. The researchers used data from the Chile-based Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) and NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope to study the galaxy.

    They determined that the galaxy’s mass, including its stars and gas, was more than 10 times greater than that of the Milky Way, and it was forming stars at an annual rate approximately 300 times greater. J0107a was more compact than the Milky Way, however.

    “The galaxy is a monster galaxy with a high star formation rate and plenty of gas, much more than present-day galaxies,” said astronomer Shuo Huang of the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan, lead author of the study published this week in the journal Nature.

    “This discovery,” said study co-author Toshiki Saito, an astronomer at Shizuoka University in Japan, “raises the important question: How did such a massive galaxy form in such an early universe?”

    While a few galaxies that are undergoing star formation at a similar rate to J0107a exist in today’s universe, almost all of them are ones that are in the process of a galactic merger or collision. There was no sign of such circumstances involving this galaxy.

    J0107a and the Milky Way have some commonalities.

    “They are similarly huge and possess a similar barred structure. However, the Milky Way had plenty of time to form its huge structures, while J0107a didn’t,” Saito said.

    In the first few billion years after the Big Bang event 13.8 billion years ago that initiated the universe, galaxies were turbulent entities and were much richer in gas than those existing currently – factors that fostered extreme bursts of star formation. While galaxies with highly organized structures like the barred spiral shape of the Milky Way are common now, that was not the case 11.1 billion years ago.

    “Compared to other monster galaxies in the distant universe (dating to an earlier cosmic epoch) whose shapes are usually disturbed or irregular, it is unexpected that J0107a looks very similar to present-day spiral galaxies,” Huang said.

    “Theories about the formation of present-day galactic structures may need to be revised,” Huang added.

    The Webb telescope, as it peers across vast distances back to the early universe, has found that galaxies with a spiral shape appeared much earlier than previously known. J0107a is now one of the earliest-known examples of a barred spiral galaxy.

    About two thirds of spiral galaxies observed in the universe today possess a bar structure. The bar is thought to serve as a form of stellar nursery, bringing gas inward from the galaxy’s spiral arms. Some of the gas forms what are called molecular clouds. Gravity causes the contraction of these clouds, with small centers taking shape that heat up and become new stars.

    The bar that is part of J0107a measures about 50,000 light years in length, Huang said. A light-year is the distance light travels in a year, 5.9 trillion miles (9.5 trillion km).

    The Webb telescope “has been studying the morphology of early massive galaxies intensely recently. However, their dynamics are still poorly understood,” Saito said.

    (Reuters)