NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia

  • MIL-Evening Report: Something borrowed, something blue? Why the reign of the traditional wedding dress may be over

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jye Marshall, Lecturer, Fashion Design, School of Design and Architecture, Swinburne University of Technology

    Wedding Rebellion Workshop, London Ellie Cooper/unsplash

    The family and friends are all gathered, wedding bells are ringing, and the bride walks down the aisle in her beautiful bubblegum pink wedding dress.

    Twenty years ago, this would have raised some eyebrows. But not so much now, as a growing number of women opt to buck the traditional bridal gown for more unique and colourful finery.

    The origins of the white wedding dress

    The white wedding gown tradition wasn’t cemented in the West until the 19th century. Before then, brides across Europe wore all manner of hues on their wedding day, including reds, blues, yellows, and even black (often in cases where the bride was mourning a close family member).

    Diggers wedding in Melbourne, 1869.
    ST Gill 1852/State Library of Victoria, Melbourne, CC BY-NC

    During the Victorian era (1837–1901), fashion trends were heavily influenced by the wealthy, and especially by the royal families. So it was Queen Victoria’s 1840 wedding that truly kicked off the white wedding gown trend.

    In a bridal context, the colour white often came to be associated with “purity” – symbolism that can be traced back to ancient Rome, where white was worn by brides and by “vestal virgins” – the priestesses who served in the cult of Vesta, the goddess of the hearth.

    In the decades following Queen Victoria’s wedding, we continued to see British royal brides adorned in shades of white, and particularly ivory, cementing what a traditional wedding dress should look like.

    Breaking the mould

    That said, this tradition might now be on its way out, reflecting broader shifts in societal attitudes towards marriage.

    Figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics show a steady long-term decline in the percentage of people getting married – as well as an increase in the median marriage age for both men and women.

    Australia has also become increasingly multicultural. And with more multicultural marriages comes a unique blend of marriage traditions and colour palettes. For instance, in many Asian cultures, including Chinese and Vietnamese, it is customary to wear red due to its positive associations with luck, joy and happiness.

    Religious adherence also has a role to play in the overall aesthetic of modern weddings. A growing number of young Australians are identifying as non-religious, which means they’re less likely to partake in a church wedding with a puffy white tulle dress.

    Without religious protocols to follow, young couples are expressing their own youthful values at their weddings – and this often includes a more laid-back approach to dressing.

    The legalisation of same-sex marriage in 2017 has also prompted bridal stores to cater to a wider market by offering a greater variety of non-traditional colours and silhouettes.

    Meanwhile, social media and the rise of celebrity culture adds pressure to think outside the box.

    For decades, celebrities have been innovators delivering shock value on their special day. Back in 1954, Marilyn Monroe wore a dark brown suit to her second wedding with Joe DiMaggio. Some 15 years later, Audrey Hepburn got married in a pink Givenchy minidress.

    Today’s stars are following suit. In 2018, singer Mandy Moore donned a pink dress on her wedding day, while model Emily Ratijowsky chose a bright yellow Zara pantsuit.

    In Australia, designers have spent decades distancing themselves from the typical European influence to forge their own fashion identity. One such person, Akira Isogawa, helped develop the bridal landscape throughout the 1990s, by pushing the boundaries of the “traditional bride”.

    The Japanese-born designer brings his own flavour to bridal dresses by infusing them with Eastern elements such as different coloured silks, hand-embroidered motifs, unique beading and even woven fabric. He has also showcased his designs internationally, helping expand Australia’s fashion identity on a world stage.

    Impacts on the industry

    Despite the move away from traditional wedding gowns, bridal stores are expected to grow their revenue over the next few years. And the industry as a whole will likely continue to contribute to overconsumption by capitalising on the shift away from tradition.

    Many stores have changed their business model to cater for more women picking off-the-rack gowns due to financial pressures. According to one industry report, about 17% of brides in 2024 had a custom wedding dress made, compared to 75% purchasing a dress off-the rack, and 7% purchasing a second-hand dress.

    At the same time, a number of new fashion technologies are supporting the next generation of onshore manufacturing by allowing the creation of hyper-personalised dresses. In the future, it may be common for brides to co-design their off-the-rack wedding dress.

    Recycled and upcycled bridal dresses
    have been slow to gain popularity, despite growing pressure on the industry to be more sustainable.

    A broader cultural shift

    This may just be the tip of the iceberg of the non-traditional bridal movement. Australian weddings are starting to take their own shape, becoming less about formality and more about celebrating what couples value the most.

    While we won’t see every bride walking down the aisle in colours like fuchsia pink, we can expect to see more brides opt for softer pastels over shades of white.

    Ideally, the bridal industry would slow down in adopting new trends and instead focus on “localism” practices, wherein consumers are looped into the process of how their clothes are made. This would emphasise sustainability through local production and consumption, while also contributing to local fashion cultures.

    Jye Marshall is a member of The Australian Fashion Council and Ethical Clothing Australia Accreditation.

    – ref. Something borrowed, something blue? Why the reign of the traditional wedding dress may be over – https://theconversation.com/something-borrowed-something-blue-why-the-reign-of-the-traditional-wedding-dress-may-be-over-254806

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Why is southern Australia in drought – and when will it end?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Chiara Holgate, Senior Research Fellow, ARC Centre of Excellence for Weather of the 21st Century, Australian National University

    Artic_photo/Shutterstock

    Swathes of South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania and Western Australia are in the grip of drought as they experience some of the lowest rainfall totals on record.

    Farmers are spending eye-watering amounts of money buying feed, or selling stock to stay afloat.

    Some towns are already on water restrictions. Those not connected to the mains water system are in a perilous situation. In the Adelaide Hills, water is being trucked in to fill empty rainwater tanks and dams.

    The story playing out across southern Australia could be a glimpse of what’s to come. Our recent research suggests southern Australia may experience longer and more intense droughts in the future, as the climate changes.

    Parts of South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania and Western Australia are experiencing serious rainfall deficiencies.
    Australian Bureau of Meteorology

    How bad is this drought?

    Parts of southern Australia have been experiencing drier than normal conditions for well over a year.

    Conditions on the ground are worsening as the drought continues.

    In Adelaide, the desalination plant has ramped up to maintain water supply. Similarly, Victoria’s desal plant has fired up for the first time since 2022 as dam levels fall.

    Farmers are facing some of the driest conditions in decades, and financial pressures are mounting.

    Nature, too, is struggling. Waterways, wetlands and deep pools have dried up, leading to fears for endangered fish, insects and many other species.

    Where has the rain gone?

    In a drought-prone country such as Australia, there’s an age-old question: why do the rains sometimes disappear?

    Our recent research shows Australian scientists are getting closer to answering this question.

    We now know Australian droughts develop when weather systems that lift and carry moisture from the ocean – to fall as heavy rain on land – disappear. When these weather systems return, the droughts break.

    These kinds of weather systems have been notably absent from southern Australia in recent months. Instead, slow-moving high-pressure systems, which typically bring warm and dry conditions, have been the standout feature across southern Australia.

    For Australia, the driest inhabited continent, heavy rains are what keep drought at bay. Last spring and summer, drought conditions were building in parts of Queensland and northern New South Wales. But then Tropical Cyclone Alfred brought heavy rains, dumping up to four times as much rain as these areas usually get in February and March.

    Similarly, heavy rains at the end of last year helped parts of northern and central WA avoid drought conditions.

    Unfortunately, western Victoria and southern SA have had no such luck.

    Drought is more likely to break if weather systems and climate drivers are favorable, such as the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) in its negative phase, the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) in its wet phase, the El Niño–Southern Oscillation in its La Niña phase, the Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation (IPO) in its negative phase and the Southern Annular Mode (SAM) active. Background climate change can affect all of these drivers.
    Holgate et al 2025 Communications Earth & Environment, CC BY-NC-ND

    How long will the drought last?

    If farmers, water authorities and policymakers knew how much longer this drought would last, they could make clear plans. Keep or sell livestock? Impose water restrictions or wait?

    Unfortunately, drought timing is very hard to predict. As our research shows, the climate processes that bring weather systems laden with heavy rain are complex.

    But we do know heavy and persistent rain is needed to break the drought. And the current forecast shows there’s a decent chance of that as we head towards spring. Though forecasts can change, and those with skin in the game will have their eyes glued to next month’s update to the Bureau of Meteorology’s rainfall outlook.

    It also helps that we’re heading into what’s usually the rainier time of year. This means the odds of receiving decent rain are higher at this time of year than if we were heading into summer.

    Climate and water long-range forecast, issued 15 May 2025 (Bureau of Meteorology)

    Dry and drier

    Over the past few decades, southern Australia has become drier. Drying has been most pronounced during the cooler months, between April and October. Some parts of southern Australia have also become more drought-prone, with the number of months spent in drought increasing over this time.

    Maps of the current dry conditions across southern Australia closely follow the regions projected to experience longer and more frequent drought conditions in future.

    It’s too early to draw a clear line between climate change and this particular drought. But the weight of evidence shows southern droughts are likely to strike more often in the future. The Tinderbox Drought from 2017–19, for instance, was the first Australian drought to show a possible worsening from climate change.

    The good news? We now know more about how Australian droughts work. This means we can now be more confident in the direction of Australia’s water future than in past decades.

    We must urgently use this new knowledge to develop innovative solutions that will allow Australia to thrive in a climate of increasingly variable water availability. Solutions will involve setting sustainable limits on water use, introducing water recycling and improving efficiency, among other measures.

    Though solutions may look different in different parts of Australia, one thing rings true everywhere: we all need to make every drop count.

    Chiara Holgate receives funding from the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for the Weather of the 21st Century.

    Ailie Gallant receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.

    – ref. Why is southern Australia in drought – and when will it end? – https://theconversation.com/why-is-southern-australia-in-drought-and-when-will-it-end-256443

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: 1 in 5 Gazans face starvation. Can the law force Israel to act?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Donald Rothwell, Professor of International Law, Australian National University

    As Israel continues to pound Gaza with airstrikes, killing scores of people a day, the two-month ceasefire that brought a halt to the violence earlier this year feels like a distant memory.

    Israel’s overall military and political objective in Gaza hasn’t changed after 19 months of war: it is still seeking the absolute defeat of Hamas and return of the remaining Israeli hostages.

    But it is unclear how Hamas will ever be militarily defeated unless there is a complete and unconditional surrender and the laying down of all arms. This appears unlikely, despite the success of Israel’s so-called “decapitation strategy” targeting the Hamas leadership.

    And Hamas continues to hold an estimated that 57 Israeli hostages in Gaza, of which up to 24 are believed to still be alive. The group is insisting on guarantees that Israel will end the war before releasing any more hostages.

    An ongoing blockade for 18 years

    With negotiations at a stalemate, Israel has not only maintained its blockade of Gaza, but strengthened it.

    Israel first imposed a land, sea and air blockade of Gaza in 2007 after Hamas came to power. These restrictions have severely limited the movement of people and vehicles across the border, as well as the amount of food, medicine and other goods that have been permitted to go into and out of Gaza.

    These controls increased significantly after Hamas’ attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023. They’ve been maintained at heightened levels ever since.

    The January ceasefire temporarily increased the flow of food, medical aid and other support into Gaza. However, this came to an end in early March when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cut off aid again to pressure Hamas to extend the ceasefire and release more hostages. Hostilities resumed soon after.

    The United Nations’ humanitarian efforts in Gaza have now come to a “near-standstill”. On May 13, Tom Fletcher, the UN emergency relief coordinator, addressed the UN Security Council, stating:

    For more than 10 weeks, nothing has entered Gaza – no food, medicine, water or tents. […] Every single one of the 2.1 million Palestinians in the Gaza Strip face the risk of famine. One in five faces starvation.

    Israel denies there are food shortages in Gaza. It says it won’t permit any trucks to enter the strip until a new system is in place to prevent Hamas from siphoning supplies.

    International law is clear

    Both the 1949 Geneva Conventions and customary international law make clear:

    The use of starvation of the civilian population as a method of warfare is prohibited.

    In addition, the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) makes starvation of civilians a war crime.

    Under international humanitarian law, Fletcher noted, Israel has the responsibility to ensure aid reaches people in territory it occupies. However, Israel’s method of distributing aid, he said, “makes aid conditional on political and military aims” and “makes starvation a bargaining chip”.

    What have the courts found?

    International courts have not ignored Israel’s obligations on this front.

    In November 2024, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Hamas leader Mohammed Deif (one of the masterminds of the October 7 attack), in addition to Netanyahu and former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant.

    In relation Netanyahu and Gallant, the ICC’s pre-trial chamber found:

    there are reasonable grounds to believe that both individuals intentionally and knowingly deprived the civilian population in Gaza of objects indispensable to their survival, including food, water, and medicine and medical supplies.

    As Israel is not a party to the Rome Statute, there is no obligation on the government to act on the arrest warrants. Both men remain free to travel as long as they do not enter the territory of a Rome Statute party. (Even then, their arrest is not guaranteed.)

    The ICC warrants will remain in effect unless withdrawn by the court. The arrest in March of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte highlighted that while ICC investigations may take time, those accused of crimes can eventually be brought before the court to face justice.

    This is especially so if there is a change in political leadership in a country that allows an arrest to go ahead.

    Meanwhile, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is hearing another case in which South Africa alleges Israel has committed genocide against the Palestinian population in Gaza.

    The case began with high-profile hearings last year when the court issued provisional measures, or orders, requiring Israel to refrain from engaging in any genocidal acts.

    The most recent of those orders, issued last May, called on Israel to immediately halt its offensive in Rafah (in southern Gaza) and maintain the opening of the Rafah border crossing with Egypt to allow “unhindered provision at scale of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance”.

    These orders remain in effect. Yet, Rafah today is a “no-go zone” that Gazans have been ordered to evacuate. And Israel’s ongoing blockade of the strip and restrictions on aid and food entering the territory are clearly in defiance of the court.

    Late last month, the ICJ began hearings to form an opinion on Israel’s duties to allow aid to enter Gaza. Israel’s foreign minister, Gideon Saar, criticised the ICJ’s hearings as “another attempt to politicise and abuse the legal process in order to persecute Israel”.

    The court’s advisory opinion on this issue is not expected for several months. A final decision on South Africa’s broader case may take years.

    So, what can be done?

    Reflecting on the situation in Gaza, Fletcher observed at the UN:

    This degradation of international law is corrosive and infectious. It is undermining decades of progress on rules to protect civilians from inhumanity and the violent and lawless among us who act with impunity. Humanity, the law and reason must prevail.

    Yet, while the Security Council continues to have the situation in Gaza under review, it has proven incapable of acting decisively because of US support for Israel.

    The Biden Administration was prepared to use its veto power to block binding Security Council resolutions forcing Israel to respond to the humanitarian crisis. The Trump Administration would no doubt do the same.

    However, as Duterte’s arrest shows, international law sometimes does result in action. The finding by another UN body last week that Russia was responsible for the 2014 downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 over Ukraine in 2014 is another case in point.

    As the Dutch foreign minister pointed out in that case, the finding sends a message that “states cannot violate international law with impunity”.

    Donald Rothwell receives funding from Australian Research Council

    – ref. 1 in 5 Gazans face starvation. Can the law force Israel to act? – https://theconversation.com/1-in-5-gazans-face-starvation-can-the-law-force-israel-to-act-256695

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: ONFA Fintech USA Partners with Metti Capital Funding to Accelerate Blockchain Banking and DeFi Expansion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, May 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ONFA FINTECH USA, a subsidiary of METTITECH GROUP HOLDINGS, has signed a strategic agreement backed by Metti Capital Funding to expand its blockchain-based digital banking platform. This strategic move aims to strengthen ONFA’s technological capabilities and accelerate its growth in the global decentralized finance (DeFi) market.

    ONFA FINTECH USA: Next-Generation Banking Meets Blockchain and AI

    ONFA FINTECH USA operates at the intersection of blockchain innovation and artificial intelligence, offering a next-generation digital banking ecosystem that prioritizes security, efficiency and decentralization. Designed with multi-layered encryption and two-factor authentication, ONFA ensures that users’ digital assets are protected at the highest level against loss or unauthorized access.

    At the core of ONFA’s ecosystem is the ONFA Wallet – a secure, AI-powered, multi-currency wallet that facilitates seamless crypto transactions and intelligent asset management. Building on this foundation, ONFA has launched a full-featured ecosystem that connects blockchain assets to real-world utility:

    – Stable Staking: Allows users to stake stablecoins such as USDT and VNDT with annual returns of up to 121%. Featuring daily rewards, flexible terms and AI-enhanced strategies, Staking empowers users to maximize idle assets with minimal effort.

    – ONFA Savings: A flexible and secure savings solution designed for the digital age. Offering attractive interest rates and seamless mobile integration, ONFA Savings allows users to manage their finances anytime, anywhere. With ONFA Savings, users can enjoy passive income with returns of up to 35% APY, making it an ideal option for long-term financial growth.

    – ONFA Share: A profit-sharing model in which users receive a share of profits generated across the entire ONFA ecosystem (from transaction fees, product revenues, etc.). This initiative fosters community involvement and financial alignment.

    – NFT Mining: A revolutionary method that allows users to earn OFT tokens daily without the need for expensive equipment or high electricity costs. Unlike traditional mining, ONFA NFT Mining only requires users to hold an officially issued NFT in their wallet. With a maximum holding period of 720 days, users receive daily OFT rewards, offering a stable and long-term income stream.

    – ONFA Stake: A strategic staking program designed to help users grow their digital assets securely and sustainably. With fixed USDT returns, a 100% principal refund guarantee and preferential exchange rates, ONFA Stake offers a simple and transparent way to participate in the evolving digital finance ecosystem.

    – ONFA Lottery: A blockchain-powered lottery system that ensures fairness and transparency. With just 10 OFT per ticket and more than 5,500 successful rounds, users can participate for a chance to win valuable digital rewards.

    – Sagaha Foundation: A pioneering blockchain-based charitable initiative, seamlessly integrated with ONFA Wallet. By accepting donations in USDT, OHO and other supported cryptocurrencies, Sagaha ensures full transparency and builds greater trust among global donors. With ONFA, the foundation supports critical humanitarian missions across Asia. Through the power of blockchain, Sagaha goes beyond traditional finance to create tangible, life-changing impact where it’s needed most.

    Strategic Funding to Power Global Growth

    In June 2024, ONFA FINTECH USA secured strategic backing from Metti Capital Funding, underscoring strong investor confidence in ONFA’s bold vision for the future of decentralized finance (DeFi), AI-powered finance and blockchain-based banking. According to Mr. Nathan Ho (CEO), the capital will be allocated toward:

    – Enhancing the scalability and cybersecurity of the ONFA Wallet.

    – Expanding AI-powered financial tools for smart asset management and automated trading.

    – Scaling global operations to make ONFA’s banking ecosystem more accessible in underserved and emerging markets.

    “This funding marks a pivotal moment in our journey to make decentralized finance universally accessible – from city centers to remote communities, from crypto veterans to first-time users,” said Mr. Nathan Ho, CEO. “Our goal is to build a future where secure, intelligent and borderless financial tools are available to all.”

    With this milestone, ONFA reaffirms its commitment to democratizing access to digital finance

    and reshaping the future of banking through decentralized, intelligent and inclusive technologies.

    Stay Connected

    Website: ONFA Official

    Blog: ONFA News

    Twitter: @onfaofficial

    Contact

    ONFA FINTECH USA CORPORATION

    Mr. Nathan Ho – CEO

    Email support@onfa.io

    Contact: 7777 Center Avenue, Suite 210 Huntington Beach, California 92647, USA

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the ONFA FINTECH USA CORPORATION. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6fd603f6-c21c-40f5-a5a1-db2abf90eb8e

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d5e9fa68-4f9b-4139-81d1-05b277e9937d

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2ca9f9bc-f3c3-4562-b46d-331825e0de9b

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China is an important strategic market for Georgian wine – Georgian National Wine Agency

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    Tbilisi, May 18 (Xinhua) — China is an important strategic market for Georgian wine, where a marketing campaign is being actively carried out to increase awareness and expand exports of Georgian wines, the Georgian National Wine Agency said on Sunday.

    According to the organization, 1.12 million liters of Georgian wine were exported from Georgia to China in January-April of this year, which is 78 percent more than in the same period last year. “Thus, China has firmly taken its place among the top five largest countries exporting Georgian wine,” the agency noted.

    With the financial and organizational support of the National Wine Agency, in 2025 Georgian wines will be actively represented in such strategic markets as China, the USA, Great Britain, Germany, Poland, the Republic of Korea and Japan.

    In 2024, Georgia exported 95 million liters of wine and spirits to 72 countries worldwide for a total of about $565 million. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China to impose anti-dumping duties on imports of polyformaldehyde copolymer from the US, EU, Japan, and from Taiwan

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, May 18 (Xinhua) — China has decided to impose anti-dumping duties on imports of polyformaldehyde copolymer produced in the United States, the European Union, Japan and Taiwan, the Ministry of Commerce said in a statement Sunday.

    As noted in the report, anti-dumping duties in the amount of 3.8% to 74.9% will come into effect on May 19 of this year and will be valid for 5 years.

    The decision was made based on the results of an anti-dumping investigation, which proved the existence of dumping and the real damage it caused to the relevant sector of mainland China, as well as the existence of a causal relationship between them, the report states.

    Polyformaldehyde copolymer is mainly used in industries such as auto parts, electronic devices, industrial equipment, sports equipment and medical instruments and apparatus, to partially replace copper, zinc, tin, lead and other metal materials. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Toyota Debuts New NEV in China

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    TIANJIN, May 18 (Xinhua) — The all-new Toyota bZ5 smart electric powertrain rolled off the assembly line at FAW Toyota Motor Co., Ltd.’s plant in the north Chinese port city of Tianjin on Friday, marking the model’s official debut in the Chinese market.

    The car also marks a major milestone as it became the 12 millionth unit produced by the company, a joint venture between Toyota Motor Corporation and leading Chinese automaker First Automotive Works (FAW) Group Co.

    The bZ5 features a panoramic sunroof and a 15.6-inch full-HD touchscreen. It comes with the new Toyota Pilot intelligent driving assistance system, which supports more than 30 functions, including navigation assistance for city and highway driving, and automatic parking.

    China is a leader in intelligent and electric vehicles. If Toyota products can win the favor of Chinese consumers, they will certainly be well received in global markets, said Koji Sato, president and CEO of Toyota.

    As of April 2025, Toyota’s Tianjin plant had produced 258,000 vehicles, with a total output value of 54 billion yuan (about $7.5 billion). From January to April this year, the plant produced 35,900 units, up 34 percent year-on-year.

    The debut of the new model highlights the growing importance of the Chinese market as a hub for global production, sales and innovation for the Japanese automaker.

    In late April, the Japanese company signed an agreement with the Shanghai municipal government to establish a wholly owned electric vehicle manufacturing plant in Shanghai.

    Under the strategic cooperation agreement, Toyota will invest a total of 14.6 billion yuan in the new energy vehicle project in Jinshan District, which will focus on the research and development, production and sales of Lexus EV vehicles and EV batteries. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Tencent to boost investment in AI, global operations

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    GUANGZHOU, May 18 (Xinhua) — Chinese internet giant Tencent has announced plans to boost investment in artificial intelligence (AI) and further expand its overseas operations, the company said in an announcement Friday at the Tencent Global Digital Ecosystem Summit in Guangzhou, south China’s Guangdong Province.

    Tencent’s R&D investment rose 21 percent year-on-year to 18.9 billion yuan (about $2.63 billion) in the first quarter of 2025 as the company works to upgrade its end-to-end AI ecosystem, which includes core large models, computing power, development tools and applications, said Tong Taosang, Tencent’s senior executive vice president.

    In terms of developing the computing power sector, Tencent has set up data centers in Guangzhou, Qingyuan, Shaoguan and other places in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, which can provide basic computing power support for manufacturing upgrades.

    Tencent Vice President Li Qiang said that Tencent Cloud, as a globally developing cloud computing provider, has achieved double-digit growth in its international business over the past three years, serving over 10,000 overseas customers in more than 80 countries and regions.

    Tencent plans to further increase its overseas investment this year, allocating US$150 million to build its first data center in Saudi Arabia and US$500 million to build a third such center in Indonesia.

    According to the company’s financial report released in March this year, Tencent’s revenue for the full year 2024 rose 8 percent year-on-year to 660.3 billion yuan. Meanwhile, its net profit and operating profit grew 19 percent and 24 percent, respectively. AI technology played a critical role in driving Tencent’s innovation and high-quality growth throughout last year. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Tianjin handled over 240 China-Europe/China-Central Asia freight trains in first four months of 2025

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, May 18 (Xinhua) — A freight train carrying 110 containers of auto parts departed from the Xingangbei railway station of the port city of Tianjin (north China) on Thursday. The train will cross the state border at the Khorgos checkpoint in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (northwest China) and arrive in Uzbekistan, the Tianjin Daily newspaper reported.

    According to statistics, in the first four months of 2025, the number of freight train departures on China-Europe/China-Central Asia international freight routes from Tianjin Port was 241. The trains carried 26,000 standard containers of cargo, up 1.9 percent year-on-year.

    Since the beginning of this year, under the supervision of the customs service, Tianjin Port has handled a total of 14 trains to Uzbekistan and other Central Asian countries in the mode of multimodal rail-sea transportation, which transported 1,546 TEU of cargo. In April alone, 10 such trains were dispatched, transporting 1,108 TEU of goods.

    According to Wang Huan, general manager of a local company engaged in transportation by China-Europe /China-Central Asia/ freight trains, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and other Central Asian countries have always been an important direction for the company to expand its business. This year, the number of freight trains heading to Central Asian countries will be increased, and the aspect of mixed freight transportation by sea and rail will be further developed. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 17 killed in fire in Hyderabad, India

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    NEW DELHI, May 18 (Xinhua) — At least 17 people were killed and many others injured in a massive fire at a building in the southern Indian city of Hyderabad on Sunday, officials said.

    The fire broke out in the morning in a residential building in Gulzar House, located near the famous Charminar area.

    “The fire broke out around 6am and by 6.16am the firefighters were on the spot. They tried to rescue people trapped inside but the fire engulfed the entire building,” local government minister Ponnam Prabhakar told the media.

    Officials said most of the victims died in their sleep and firefighting efforts were underway.

    A preliminary investigation by police revealed that a short circuit could have caused the fire.

    Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences over the deaths in the fire and announced monetary compensation to the victims. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Since the beginning of 2025, Mongolia’s import of passenger cars from abroad has increased by 6.7 percent

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    ULAN BATOR, May 18 (Xinhua) — Mongolia has imported 49,607 passenger cars from abroad since the beginning of 2025, up 6.7 percent year-on-year, local media reported Sunday, citing data from the country’s General Administration of Customs.

    During the specified period, imports of trucks decreased by 5.2 percent, amounting to 9,790 units, the official report says.

    Today, passenger cars are mainly imported from the Republic of Korea, Japan and the United States, and trucks from China.

    According to the Mongolian Traffic Police Department, more than 800,000 vehicles are currently participating in traffic in Ulaanbaatar. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Special Report: Why This Memory Should Be Preserved Carefully

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, May 18 (Xinhua) — “Your documentary ‘My Moscow Encounters’ faithfully portrayed modern Russia and our war heritage. I was so touched! Both my grandfathers were war veterans, and both my grandmothers survived the siege of Leningrad,” a message from Anna Belkina, head of the PR department of RT TV channel (Russia Today), transported correspondents from sunny and clear Beijing back in time to recent spring days on Moscow’s Red Square.

    On May 15 and 16, RT aired the Xinhua News Agency documentary “My Moscow Meetings” in prime time on two consecutive evenings, which received a wide response from Russian viewers.

    “This is a film showing China’s view of the Great Patriotic War and World War II. The sacrifices that people made to achieve Victory were enormous,” Ekaterina Yakovleva, head of the RT.Doc television channel, wrote in a message to correspondents. “We must preserve this memory and prevent distortion of the historical truth.”

    Ahead of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War, Xinhua correspondents in Moscow talked with old and new friends about the memory of World War II, the meaning of peace and hopes for the future. The conversations give a clear sense of the overlapping memories of the peoples of China and Russia and their common aspiration for common development.

    MEMORY OF THE PAST IS A TRIBUTE OF RESPECT TO ANCESTORS

    “Each link in these chains symbolizes ten lives. That is, 26 million Soviet people who died in World War II,” RT chief producer Dmitry Leontyev looks up at the chains hanging from the ceiling and explains their meaning in the “Faces of Victory” hall of the Victory Museum in Moscow.

    The museum was opened in 1995 — on the 50th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War and the World Anti-Fascist War. D. Leontyev says that in every family someone fought. And today, every Russian can bring a photograph to the museum or write a text about their relatives to preserve their memory forever. Among the more than a million photographs collected is a picture of the father of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

    “For Russians, May 9 is the most important secular holiday of the year. After all, if we had not won that war, Russia simply would not exist,” says D. Leontyev. “Preserving the history of that war is a tribute to the sacrifices that my ancestors made and thanks to which I can now sit here and talk to you.”

    “Of all the other countries, only China can understand this. Because for them, too, it was a war for survival… Our two countries suffered the most, lost the most people in World War II. And not only soldiers died, but also women, children, and old people. They suffered from terrible hunger, from the atrocities that the Japanese and German armies committed in China and in Russia, then the Soviet Union. And if you remember the Chinese soldiers who fought in the ranks of the Soviet army, and the Soviet soldiers who fought and risked their lives for China, then I think it would be impossible to imagine a stronger bond between the countries,” he adds.

    “THE DISASTER OF 80 YEARS AGO MUST NOT BE REPEATED”

    In March 2013, Chinese President Xi Jinping gave an important speech at the Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO) of the Russian Foreign Ministry, noting that in the present world, the interconnectedness and interdependence of all countries has reached an unprecedentedly high level. “All of us, people, live in one global village, in one time and space at the intersection of history and reality. More and more, we are becoming a community of a common destiny, in which I am in you, and you are in me,” he said.

    “It was a historic moment,” said Alexander Bobrov, associate professor of diplomacy at MGIMO. He led journalists to the MGIMO conference hall building where Chinese President Xi Jinping gave his speech 12 years ago.

    A. Bobrov said that he was a second-year university student that year, and his own mentality was strongly oriented toward the West.

    “After the speech of Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2013, I studied many books about China and Eurasia and radically changed my perception of the world,” he noted.

    A. Bobrov believes that the concept of building a community with a common destiny for humanity, proposed by Xi Jinping, “influenced the worldview of many national leaders.” “I think that Chairman Xi Jinping’s speech changed the perception of the world in which we live,” A. Bobrov adds.

    On the building of the university conference hall there is a huge red banner with the inscription in white letters. “Happy Great Victory Day. 1945-2025,” he translates the inscription.

    Speaking about the military parade in honor of Victory Day, which took place on May 9, A. Bobrov notes: “The point is not to boast about what kind of army we have or to demonstrate military valor, the point is that what happened 80 years ago should not happen again. It is about preserving the common past for the sake of a bright future for our peoples.”

    According to him, some Western countries, trying to present this event as Russia-oriented, “are making a big mistake, because this is not about Russia, but about our common Victory.”

    “THE SUPPORT OF PEACE, STABILITY AND DEVELOPMENT IN THE WHOLE WORLD”

    “This order belonged to my father-in-law. In 1941, he voluntarily went to the front and was seriously wounded in Leningrad (now St. Petersburg),” says Yuri Tavrovsky, a professor at the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia. In his home, a Xinhua correspondent saw not only the order of the Soviet veteran, but also books by Yuri Tavrovsky himself about China.

    As one of Russia’s leading sinologists, Yuri Tavrovsky is deeply familiar with Chinese culture, concepts and initiatives.

    Yury Tavrovsky believes that Russia and China’s joint celebration of the victory in World War II demonstrates “their own vision of history based on facts.” In his opinion, Russian-Chinese relations embody the principle of Chinese philosophy “he er bu tong” /unity while preserving diversity/.

    “A new period is now emerging, thanks to a different type of relationship between Russia and China,” he says, adding that Russia and China will become “the pillar of peace, stability and development throughout the world.”

    Any attempt “to divide us, to create discord between Russia and China are doomed to failure,” he says. “Russia and China not only marched together on /Red/ Square, they will help each other in difficult times.”

    Speaking about his expectations for the future, Yuri Tavrovsky notes that the most important thing is to eradicate wars. “Peace, trade and exchange between civilizations are the main tasks of the 21st century,” he says. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Italy’s Stano breaks 35-km race walk world record

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Stano, who won gold in men’s 20-km race walk at the Tokyo Olympics and finished fourth at the Paris Games, shaved 57 seconds off the previous record set by Canada’s Evan Dunfee less than two months ago.
    The 33-year-old also won gold in 35-km race walk at the 2022 World Athletics Championships and helped Italy win gold at the 2023 European Race Walking Team Championships.

  • Minister of State for Defence to lead Indian delegation at LIMA 2025 in Malaysia

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, will lead the Indian delegation to the 17th edition of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA 2025), scheduled to be held in Langkawi, Malaysia, from May 20 to 24.
     
    A dedicated Indian Pavilion has been set up at the exhibition and will be formally inaugurated by the Minister. The pavilion will showcase the growing strength and capabilities of India’s defence sector, reflecting the country’s focus on self-reliance and innovation in defence production.
     
    Several Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs)—including Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, Bharat Dynamics Limited, BEML, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, and Gliders India Limited—will participate, alongside private Indian defence firms. These entities will exhibit cutting-edge technologies and indigenous advancements in aerospace and maritime systems.
     
    India’s participation will also feature key defence assets, including a Dornier aircraft and an Indian Naval Ship, demonstrating the operational readiness and technological prowess of the Indian Armed Forces.
     
    On the sidelines of the exhibition, Minister Sanjay Seth is expected to hold bilateral discussions with the Malaysian Minister of Defence, Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled bin Nordin. The meeting aims to further enhance defence cooperation and reinforce the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and Malaysia.
     
    India and Malaysia share a strong and multifaceted relationship, with defence and security forming a key pillar of bilateral engagement. The two nations have continued to expand their collaboration under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which was formalised during the Malaysian Prime Minister’s visit to India in 2024.
     
    First held in 1991 and conducted biennially, LIMA is one of the largest maritime and aerospace exhibitions in the Asia-Pacific region. It serves as a vital platform for strategic dialogue, defence diplomacy, and technological innovation, making India’s participation at LIMA 2025 both timely and impactful.

  • MIL-OSI China: China imposes anti-dumping duties on imports of polyformaldehyde copolymer

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

    China will levy anti-dumping duties on imports of polyformaldehyde copolymer originating in the United States, the European Union, China’s Taiwan region, and Japan from May 19 for a period of five years, the commerce ministry said in a statement Sunday.

    An investigation has shown that imports of polyformaldehyde copolymer from the above regions have involved dumping, which caused substantial damage to the polyformaldehyde copolymer industry in the Chinese mainland, according to the ministry.

    Anti-dumping duty rates will range from 3.8 percent to 74.9 percent, it said.

    Polyformaldehyde copolymer is primarily used in sectors including auto parts, electronic appliances, industrial machinery, sports equipment and medical equipment to partially replace copper, zinc, tin, lead and other metal materials. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/VIETNAM – The hope of Vietnamese Catholics: “We look forward to welcoming Pope Leo XIV in Vietnam”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Saturday, 17 May 2025  

    Ho Chi Minh City (Fides) – “Pope Leo XIV should visit Vietnam, fulfilling Pope Francis’s wish,” headlines a Vietnamese Catholic online newspaper. It is an example of how the Vietnamese Catholic and secular press has also welcomed the news of the new pope’s election. The article recalls that “Pope Francis left behind a profound legacy of compassion, peace, and interreligious dialogue.” “One of Pope Francis’s unfulfilled wishes,” the newspaper continued, “was to visit Vietnam, a country with a vibrant Catholic community and a rich cultural history.” Therefore, they are hoping for “a visit by Pope Leo XIV,” which would “certainly have great significance not only for the Vietnamese Church, but also for other areas such as culture, society, and diplomacy” and “would be a great source of encouragement for Vietnamese Catholics, helping them strengthen their faith and experience unity with the universal Church.” “We wholeheartedly hope that Pope Leo XIV will visit Vietnam, which would be a historic event not only for the Catholic community but also for the entire Vietnamese people, bringing a message of peace, solidarity, and love. The Vietnamese Catholic community is already looking forward to the day of his arrival,” the newspaper concluded.As for the non-Catholic press, the favorable response of the Buddhist community is noteworthy. In an analysis entitled “Pope Leo XIV and the Buddhist Community: A New Era of Interreligious Dialogue,” the Buddhist newspaper Phat u Vietnam reports on the benevolence of non-Christian religious communities, including Buddhists in Vietnam and other Asian countries. Although Pope Leo XIV has not yet disclosed his views on Buddhism, it notes that “his background and past actions reveal an open attitude toward interreligious dialogue.” Specifically, the article mentions his time as a missionary in Peru, where there is a small but thriving Buddhist community: thus, it is assumed that Pope Leo is “familiar with cultural and religious diversity.” Furthermore, Pope Leo XIV is already considered “close” to Buddhist teachings on active compassion (karuna) and the connection between humanity and creation. At a conference in 2024, cited by Vietnamese Buddhists, Cardinal Prevost called for a “reciprocal relationship” between humanity and the environment. This vision, he argued, reflects the Buddhist principle of “non-harm” (ahimsa) and “respect for life,” opening the way for joint projects with Buddhist organizations. Furthermore, it is noted that “the invitation in his inaugural address to ‘build bridges’ indicates his willingness to engage in such collaborations.”Father Peter Nguyen Thanh Tung, professor of church history, expressed his deep appreciation for Pope Leo XIV on behalf of the Church in Vietnam in an interview with the media channel of the Archdiocese of Ho Chi Minh City. “The successor of Saint Peter,” he said, “reminded us that the Church will remain forever steadfast because, as he and Jesus promised, ‘the gates of hell shall not prevail against her.’” “The Pope,” he continued, “chose the name Leo XIV in memory of Leo XIII, who came at a time when the world was confronted with social problems. Pope Leo XIII defended workers in a social context where capitalism exploited them. Pope Leo XIV wishes to continue the path of an open Church, a Church that protects and defends the poor and the weak, the workers, and upholds human dignity.” (PA/AD) (Agenzia Fides, 17/5/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • Storms, rainfall, and heatwave: diverse weather patterns sweep across India

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India witnessed a mix of intense weather conditions over the past 24 hours, with regions across the country experiencing thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and heatwave conditions, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
     
    Thunderstorms accompanied by squally to gusty winds, reaching speeds between 60 to 90 kmph, were reported from isolated areas in Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, East Uttar Pradesh, Gangetic West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, and Tripura. In other regions, including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Interior Karnataka, Rayalaseema, Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, West Uttar Pradesh, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, Marathwada, and Madhya Maharashtra, wind speeds were slightly lower, ranging between 40 to 60 kmph.
     
    Alongside gusty winds, heavy to very heavy rainfall was recorded in isolated areas of Tamil Nadu, North Interior Karnataka, and the Sub-Himalayan region of West Bengal and Sikkim. Several other areas, such as Rayalaseema, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Marathwada, reported heavy rainfall activity.
     
    In contrast to the stormy conditions prevailing in parts of southern and eastern India, parts of the north and northwest remained gripped by severe heat. Heatwave to severe heatwave conditions were observed in isolated pockets of the Jammu Division. Meanwhile, areas of Rajasthan also experienced heatwave conditions, accompanied by unusually warm night temperatures in some localities.
     
    The IMD continues to monitor the evolving weather patterns and has advised residents in affected areas to stay alert and follow safety guidelines.

  • Mixed green manure: cultivating soil health the sustainable way

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Mixed green manure cropping is emerging as a powerful tool to enhance soil health and boost farm productivity. Unlike single-species green manure, this practice involves cultivating a combination of green manure crops that work in synergy to enrich the soil with a wider range of nutrients, improve its structure, suppress weeds, and foster biodiversity.

    Green manure crops are grown specifically to be incorporated into the soil, enriching it with organic matter and essential nutrients. Mixed green manure crops take this a step further by combining species with complementary characteristics. For instance, some crops in the mix may be efficient nitrogen fixers, while others may improve soil aeration or retain moisture.

    Experts highlight that crops such as Dhaincha and Sunhamp, which develop deep taproots, are especially useful for breaking up compacted soil layers. When grown alongside fibrous-rooted species like cowpea or sorghum, the mix enhances soil aggregation and water retention, creating a healthier and more fertile soil profile.

    Moreover, mixed cropping aids in weed control. Certain species release natural compounds that inhibit weed germination, while others grow densely enough to physically suppress weed growth. This natural method of weed management reduces the need for chemical herbicides, making farming more eco-friendly.

    Another key advantage of mixed green manure cropping is its contribution to biodiversity. A diverse crop mix supports a range of beneficial insects, pollinators, and soil organisms. This, in turn, strengthens the farm ecosystem and enhances its resilience to pests and diseases.

    To support farmers in adopting this practice, the National Seeds Corporation (NSC) is offering two variants of mixed green manure kits. Kit-1 includes eight crop varieties—Dhaincha, Sunhamp, maize, sorghum, guar, cowpea, okra, and marigold—amounting to a total of 5.050 kilograms. Kit-2 contains the same crops excluding marigold, with a total weight of 5.000 kilograms. Each kit is designed to cover half an acre of land.

    Agricultural experts advise farmers to till the mixed green manure crops back into the soil approximately 30 to 35 days after sowing, or at least two weeks before the sowing of the next or main crop. This ensures optimal nutrient release and soil enrichment.

  • From gardens to fields: the versatile role of Marigolds

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Marigolds, known for their bright colours and ease of cultivation, are among the most commonly grown annual plants in India. Popular in home gardens and widely used during festivals, these flowers are appreciated not just for their ornamental value but also for their multiple practical uses.
     
    Two main types of marigolds are commonly grown—African and French. African marigolds, such as the Pusa Narangi and Pusa Bahar varieties, are taller with larger flowers. French marigolds, on the other hand, are smaller and bushier. Both varieties are well-suited to Indian climates and require minimal maintenance, which makes them a favourite among gardeners.
     
    In many cultures, marigolds hold symbolic meaning, often associated with joy, remembrance, and the cycle of life and death. Their presence is particularly noticeable during religious and social functions, where they are used extensively in garlands and decorations.
     
    Marigolds also offer some health-related benefits. The flowers contain lutein, a compound known to support eye health, and they have antibacterial and antiviral properties, which add to their value beyond aesthetics.
     
    In agriculture, marigolds are proving to be useful as a natural pest control method. Farmers use them as trap crops, especially against tomato fruit borers (Helicoverpa armigera) and Western Flower Thrips (WFT). By attracting pests away from the main crop, marigolds help reduce damage. The plant also releases natural chemicals through its roots that can suppress harmful nematodes in the soil, making it an eco-friendly choice for integrated pest management.
     
    Marigolds contribute to improving soil health as well. They help increase organic matter and enhance the availability of nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen. When grown alongside other crops, marigolds can boost soil enzyme activity, which plays an important role in nutrient cycling.
     
    Additionally, marigold intercropping has been shown to support the growth of beneficial soil bacteria. These microbes play a role in promoting healthy plant development, making the soil more productive over time.
     
    Cultivation of marigolds is simple. They thrive in full sunlight and well-drained soil, and they can be grown either from seeds or transplants. In farming, marigolds are often planted on the field bunds as part of a pest management strategy. The flowers are ready for harvest about two and a half months after planting, once they reach their full bloom.

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fatal traffic accident in Sau Mau Ping

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Fatal traffic accident in Sau Mau Ping

    Police are investigating a fatal traffic accident in Sau Mau Ping today (May 18) in which a man died.Issued at HKT 16:13

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Prime Minister expresses grief over Hyderabad fire tragedy, announces ex-gratia compensation

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic loss of lives caused by a fire incident in Hyderabad, Telangana. Offering his heartfelt condolences, the Prime Minister also wished for the speedy recovery of those injured in the unfortunate accident.
     
    In a statement released on Sunday, the Prime Minister announced an ex-gratia payment from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF). Families of the deceased will receive Rs. 2 lakh each, while those injured will be granted Rs. 50,000 as financial assistance.
     
    The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) took to X to convey the Prime Minister’s sentiments, saying, “Deeply anguished by the loss of lives due to a fire tragedy in Hyderabad, Telangana. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon.”
     
    Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the fire, and efforts are underway to assist those affected by the tragedy.

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCSD’s Mobile Library 3 resumes service

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCSD’s Mobile Library 3 resumes service 
         The service points of Mobile Library 3 are Prime View Garden, Siu Hong Court, Shan King Estate, Sam Shing Estate, Leung King Estate and Fu Tai Estate in Tuen Mun; Kingswood Country Club and Tin Ching Estate in Tin Shui Wai; and Sheung Tsuen Park, Wang Chau, San Tin, Long Shin Estate and Fairview Park in Yuen Long. 

         For enquiries about Mobile Library 3 services, please call 2450 1857.
    Issued at HKT 11:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Civil service volunteers visit elderly activity centre (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Civil Service Bureau (CSB) Volunteer Team and the Digital Policy Office Volunteer Team today (May 17) visited an elderly activity centre in To Kwa Wan, and assisted the elderly to learn how to use smartphones and mobile applications. They also had fun from gerontechnology through interactive activities and integration of technology into daily lives.

         The Secretary for the Civil Service, Mrs Ingrid Yeung; the Permanent Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr Clement Leung; and the Commissioner for Digital Policy, Mr Tony Wong, joined the civil service volunteers to participate in volunteer service under the “Smart Silver” Digital Inclusion Programme for Elders at the Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Lok Man Alice Kwok Integrated Service Centre. With the help of the volunteers, the elderly learned how to use the “iAM Smart” mobile app to access useful information such as weather conditions, the use of Scameter, and the waiting time at accident and emergency departments, etc.

         Apart from answering their questions on the use of smartphones, the civil service volunteers also let the elderly experience the benefits of digital technology through various games, including doing physical exercises by making use of an AI application developed by the centre for people with knee problems in the community, which allows users to adjust the exercise intensity and movement according to their own physical conditions. In addition, the elderly also participated in games for sensory integration training and cognitive training to help enhance their responsive abilities.

         At present, more than 70 civil service volunteer teams have been set up across different government bureaux and departments, providing more diversified types and forms of services ranging from life planning and mentoring services for youth, interest classes, first aid seminars, residential care home visits and home visits to cleaning and maintenance services. In 2024, the volunteer teams organised or participated in around 2 040 volunteer activities, while the attendance of participating volunteers and hours of volunteer service were about 23 500 and over 111 700 respectively, representing an increase of more than 400 volunteer activities and 22 400 hours of service, or 25 per cent for both figures when compared to those of 2023.

    Mrs Yeung encouraged civil servants to make use of their knowledge and skills, as well as their rich life experience, to contribute to the community in their spare time, and to demonstrate the civil servants’ care for the society and dedication to serving the community. 

    A fresh round of the Civil Service Volunteer Commendation Scheme has commenced to commend departmental volunteer teams and individual volunteers with high accumulated service hours, as well as individual volunteers who demonstrated outstanding leadership in organising volunteer services. In addition, among the numerous volunteer services or activities organised by departmental volunteer teams, the CSB will select volunteer service projects that are the most distinctive and best showcase civil servants’ active collaboration with the community, as well as their effective use of innovative technologies and their own expertise for awarding the Meritorious Volunteer Service Award. The list of award winners is expected to be announced in the third quarter of this year.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by FS at Family Education and Legacy Forum 2025 (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at Family Education and Legacy Forum 2025 today (May 17):

    Yanice (Chair of the Family Education and Legacy Forum 2025, Ms Yanice Mak), Enoch (Vice President of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization Hong Kong Association, Professor Enoch Young), Joseph (the Under Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Joseph Chan), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
    Good afternoon. It is a great pleasure to join you all at the Family Education and Legacy Forum 2025.
     
    Today, we bring together family business leaders, academics and thought leaders to explore a topic that is both timely and timeless: sustainable family wealth succession. It is a subject that goes well beyond financial continuity. It encompasses values, responsibility and intergenerational purpose.
     
    Let me begin by extending a very warm welcome to Dr Josh Baron from Harvard Business School. Your presence here adds intellectual strength to the dialogue. And if I may take the opportunity of this occasion, held at a time when the world is facing protectionism and unilateralism unseen for decades, to highlight a few Chinese values that I believe are highly relevant when navigating the uncertainties of our time, that is our emphasis on harmony, consensus building, shared progress and common prosperity.
     
    Coming back to the Forum today. The lineup of speakers is indeed impressive. I am sure their insights will be enlightening and inspiring, providing useful advice for family businesses and their owners in a world that is undergoing rapid transformation.
     
    Allow me to share a few personal reflections as morsel to your ensuing discussions. As some of you may know, before entering public service in 2012, I worked in the private sector and had the privilege of attending Harvard Business School’s Owner/President Management Programme. These reflections come from my years of knowledge of and experience in both the public and private sectors.
     
    The first point is about financial sustainability.
     
    Family businesses often start with great success by their founders. Yet it is indeed not uncommon for second or third-generation owners to have vastly different ideas or aspirations than those of their parents. While pursuing one’s dreams and being open to new opportunities, one must manage their risk exposure, in particular liquidity and leverage level.
     
    The second point is about recognising the mega trends and the associated opportunities and risks. In my view, a few forces will define the coming decade. 
     
    First, geopolitics. We must recognise that strategic competition among major powers will likely persist. The days of seamless globalisation are giving way to geo-economic fragmentation, marked by tariffs, technology barriers and polarisation of international politics. 
     
    Going forward, three regional blocs may emerge: first, the Asia-Pacific; second, India, the Middle East and Europe; and third, the Americas. Within a region, there will be more collaboration and partnership; but between regions, competition will be more intense.  For family business owners, this means recalibrating strategies, managing risks across jurisdictions, and identifying new regional opportunities.
     
    Second, artificial intelligence (AI). AI is already transforming the way we work and do business. The “AI+ era” is unstoppable. AI is deeply integrated across sectors, from manufacturing, logistics and city management to hospitality, games and household appliances. 
     
    To embrace it is not only about resources and investments, but more importantly, a shift in mindset. 
     
    Third, green transformation. Around the world – with only a few exceptions – green is high on the agenda of consumers, investors and governments.
     
    Family businesses will need to respond to higher demands on sustainability. But more than that, I believe family capital can and should play a catalytic role in this transformation, by scaling up green solutions and supporting systemic change.
     
    The third point is about creating a legacy. Knowing many family business leaders in person, I understand you do care about the collective good of our community and the world. But my point is not exactly philanthropy, but the well-being of the people, which must be embedded as a core value of businesses.
     
    Consider the stories of the Six Little Dragons of Hangzhou like DeepSeek and Unitree Robotics. While people often focus on their technological prowess, I believe the success of these companies is also driven by the aspiration, deep in their hearts, that innovation should be affordable, accessible and inclusive. 
     
    There are similar examples here in Hong Kong. For instance, a surgical robot company born out of the Chinese University of Hong Kong is producing affordable surgical robots for broad applications in Hong Kong, the Mainland and beyond, benefiting thousands of patients with limited means. On the other hand, several fintech firms are exporting innovative financial solutions to Southeast Asia, making credit and financial services more accessible to underserved communities. The founders of these companies, whom I know personally, share the same vision of inclusiveness. 
     
    These examples remind us that legacy is not only about what we build, but also who we build it for.
     
    Ladies and gentlemen, I cannot better conclude by making one final point: the most valuable inheritance we can pass on is not wealth, but wisdom. Let us not forget the importance of providing the best education for our next generation, an education that nurtures compassion, resilience, cross-cultural understanding and a strong sense of global citizenship. One that equips our children not only with knowledge, but with the moral compass and courage to face uncertainty, uphold values and lead with purpose.
     
    My sincere thanks to the UNESCO Hong Kong Association and the Harvard Business School Association of Hong Kong for convening this meaningful exchange. I look with anticipation to the wisdom and impactful initiatives that will emerge from today’s dialogue. I wish you all the best of health and business in the time ahead. Thank you very much.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Labour Department highly concerned about fatal work accident that happened in Sheung Shui yesterday

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Labour Department (LD) is highly concerned about a fatal work accident that happened at a detached house in Sheung Shui yesterday’s afternoon (May 16), in which a male worker fell from a canopy while working thereon. He was certified dead later in hospital. The LD is saddened by the death of the worker and expresses its deepest sympathy to his family.

    The LD’s spokesman said, “We commenced an immediate on-site investigation as soon as we were notified of the accident and have issued suspension notices to the contractors concerned, suspending the work on the canopy of the detached house concerned. The contractors cannot resume the work process until the LD is satisfied that suitable measures to abate the relevant risks have been taken.”

    The spokesman added, “We will complete the investigation as soon as possible to identify the cause of the accident, ascertain the liability of the relevant duty holders and recommend improvement measures. We will take actions pursuant to the law if there is any violation of the work safety legislation.”

    To prevent workers from falling while working at height, the LD reminds contractors to take suitable safety measures, including installing guard-rails and toe-boards at the edges of workplaces, providing workers with suitable working platforms and, in exceptional circumstances, providing workers with fall arresting equipment, as well as ensuring the proper use of such equipment by the workers throughout the work.

    The general duty provisions of the Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance require employers to provide safe working environments, plant and systems of work for their employees. Those who contravene the relevant provisions are liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for two years.

    In regard to yesterday’s accident, the LD will issue a Work Safety Alert through its mobile application “OSH 2.0”, website and email, giving a brief account of the accident concerned to duty holders, workers’ unions, professional bodies of safety practitioners and others, and reminding the industry of the importance of following safety precautionary measures to prevent a recurrence of similar accidents.

    The LD will also remind the employer concerned of the liability for employees’ compensation under the Employees’ Compensation Ordinance, assist family members of the deceased to claim employees’ compensation and closely follow up on the case. For those with financial difficulties, the LD will assist them to apply for appropriate emergency funds. Subject to the needs and wishes of family members of the deceased, the LD will also liaise with the Social Welfare Department for financial or other assistance.

    For the sake of securing the safety and health of employees at work, the LD appeals to employers to provide plant and systems of work that are safe and without risks to health. Employees should co-operate with their employers, adopt all safety measures and use personal protective equipment provided properly to avoid endangering their own work safety and that of other workers.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Remarks by STL at media session

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Remarks by STL at media session 
    Reporter: What’s the outcome of yesterday’s meeting with ride hailing services operators? What’s the next step being planned to address the concerns raised by taxi drivers who may consider to step up their action? And finally, any progress on the future legislative proposal to regulate ride hailing services? Thank you.
     
    Secretary for Transport and Logistics: In enhancing the personalised point-to-point services, we have been taking three-pronged measures. First of all, we have been helping the taxi sector to improve their service quality by creating five taxi fleets. The feature of these fleets is basically to provide e-hailing services and they will also provide new electric cars to enhance their services. The second prong is that we are actively pursuing our internal review and survey on the passenger demand on the provision of e-hailing services and we are actively doing that. In this process, we have been arranging and lining up regular sessions with relevant stakeholders, including in particular the taxi trade representatives as well as existing e-hailing platform operators and those potential candidates who are interested to operate in Hong Kong. Yesterday’s meeting as well as the meeting by the Transport Department with the taxi trade were two of the series of meetings we have held in collecting their views and listening to their concerns. We will be meeting them on a regular basis in order to solicit and gather the updated views and suggestions so as to finalise our internal study and survey on the demand and requirements needed to regulate the e-hailing platform services in the future.
     
    (Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the remarks)
    Issued at HKT 12:02

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The First International Forum on Humanitarian Exchanges between China and the Republic of Belarus was held in Beijing

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, May 18 (Xinhua) — The First International Forum on Humanitarian Exchanges “China and the Republic of Belarus” and the Dialogue of Civilizations “China and Eurasian Countries” were recently held at Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU). The opening ceremony was presided over by Professor Dai Guiju, Director of the BFSU Russian Language Institute.

    At the opening ceremony, Vice-Rector of PULIN Zhao Gang noted that the establishment of the China-Belarus Humanitarian Exchange Center marks the construction of a bridge of friendship for the mutual enrichment of civilizations and the rapprochement of the peoples of the two countries. He expressed hope that this forum will become an occasion for expanding comprehensive cooperation between universities, think tanks and research institutions of China and Belarus in such areas as language teaching, student and teacher exchanges, and mutual visits of scientists.

    Ambassador of the Republic of Belarus to China Alexander Chervyakov noted that Belarus and China have a rich cultural heritage and educational resources, and the China-Belarus Humanitarian Exchange Center, combining the advantages of both sides, will open up broader prospects for joint research, innovative projects and educational cooperation.

    Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Republic of Belarus Zhang Wenchuan made a video address at the ceremony. Minister-Counselor of the Department of European and Central Asian Countries of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China Su Fangqiu made a speech at the ceremony, and a high-ranking official of the Department of International Exchanges and Cooperation of the Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China Xi Zhu made a video address.

    At the forum, heads of Chinese and Belarusian universities, representatives of scientific institutions and companies, scientists and experts made reports. Then there was a round table on the topic of “The mechanism for creating the China-Belarus Center for Humanitarian Exchanges between China and Belarus” and a seminar “Dialogue of Civilizations “China and Eurasian Countries”, where experts, scientists, teachers and students actively spoke out and discussed ways to expand cooperation in the cultural and humanitarian sphere, in particular, in the field of education. The participants called the opening of the China-Belarus Center for Humanitarian Exchanges, which took place several days ago, a big step forward in this direction.

    Earlier, PULIN, Belarusian State University /BSU/ and Minsk State Linguistic University /MSLU/, with the assistance of the ministries of education of the two countries, jointly established the China-Belarus Center for Humanitarian Exchanges. This forum, organized on the platform of the above-mentioned center, is aimed at demonstrating the achievements of Chinese academic circles in the study of humanitarian cooperation with Belarus and strengthening academic exchange in the field of dialogue of civilizations of China and Eurasian countries. The event was attended by more than a hundred experts and scholars from leading think tanks, research institutions and famous universities of China and Belarus. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Outlook for Nifty remains bullish, adopt buy-on-dips strategy: analysts

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian equity benchmarks took a breather from their recent rally last week, with the Nifty ending just above the psychological 25,000 mark. Despite this pause, momentum indicators suggest a bullish setup going into the coming week, according to market analysts.
     
    While the headline indices showed signs of mild pressure, broader markets outperformed. The BSE Midcap index rose by 0.8 per cent, while the Smallcap index gained 1 per cent, reflecting continued buying interest beyond the large-cap space.
     
    “This suggests that investors are becoming more confident in the market’s breadth, which is often a bullish sign for the overall trend,” said Kailash Rajwadkar of Choice Broking.
     
    Technically, the Nifty recently broke out of a Rounding Bottom pattern on the weekly chart, supported by strong volumes—considered a positive indicator.
     
    “The pattern projects an upside potential toward 28,000 in the short term. Immediate resistance is seen at the 26,000–27,000 levels, where partial profit booking may be advisable. On the downside, 24,300 and 24,000 are strong support zones. Any correction toward these levels should be viewed as a buying opportunity, keeping the broader uptrend intact,” Rajwadkar said.
     
    Momentum indicators also support the bullish outlook. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) stands at 61.9 and is trending upward, suggesting strengthening momentum. Furthermore, the Nifty is trading well above its key exponential moving averages — the 20, 50, 100, and 200-day — which confirms sustained positive sentiment. This technical alignment continues to support a buy-on-dips strategy.
     
    In the derivatives segment, market volatility eased slightly. The India VIX declined by 23.49 per cent to 16.55, reflecting reduced fear and a more stable trading environment.
     
    “However, heavy call writing at the 25,500 and 26,000 levels indicates resistance in higher zones, while strong put writing at 25,000 reaffirms it as a key support level. Traders should monitor the 25,000 mark closely — a sustained hold above it may trigger fresh buying interest, though a risk-managed approach is advised in the near term,” Rajwadkar added.
     
    The Bank Nifty ended the week on a firm note, consolidating just below the crucial 56,000 level. Despite limited movement in Friday’s session, the index remained above previous breakout levels, indicating underlying strength in the banking sector.
     
    The weekly chart shows a breakout from a recent consolidation range, with price action continuing to hold above that zone — a signal of potential for further upside.
     
    According to Nandish Shah, Senior Derivative and Technical Research Analyst at HDFC Securities, the Indian Rupee appreciated marginally by 5 paise against the US dollar, closing at 85.50 on Friday. This gain was supported by a weakening dollar index and easing crude oil prices.
     
    Among sectors, Nifty Realty, Media, and FMCG emerged as top gainers, while Nifty IT, Healthcare, and Metals ended in the red.
     
    “The short-term technical outlook for the Nifty remains bullish as it continues to trade above its key short-term moving averages. The next resistance level is seen at 25,207, derived from the 76.4 per cent Fibonacci retracement of the previous major decline. On the downside, the 24,800 level could act as immediate support,” Shah added.
     
    —IANS

  • President Murmu, PM Modi extend birthday greetings to Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday extended warm birthday wishes to Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on the occasion of his 74th birthday.
     
    In a post on X President Murmu said, “Hearty greetings and best wishes to @VPIndia Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar Ji on his birthday! I wish him good health and many more years in the service of the nation.”
     
    Prime Minister Modi, in his message, praised the Vice President’s deep understanding of the Constitution and acknowledged his role in enhancing the productivity of the Rajya Sabha.
     
    In his post on X, the Prime Minister said, “Greetings to our Vice President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar Ji, on his birthday. He is blessed with tremendous knowledge of our Constitution, which reflects his years of work as a leading lawyer. He has made commendable efforts to boost the productivity of the Rajya Sabha. His interest in serving society is also immense. May he lead a long and healthy life.”
     
    Jagdeep Dhankhar was born on May 18, 1951, in Kithana village, located in Rajasthan’s Jhunjhunu district. Before entering politics, he was a Senior Advocate at the High Court and later practiced primarily in the Supreme Court from 1990 onward. His legal expertise spans sectors such as steel, coal, mining, and international commercial arbitration. He has appeared in multiple High Courts across the country.
     
    Dhankhar was first elected to Parliament in 1989 from the Jhunjhunu constituency. He served as Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs in 1990. In 1993, he was elected to the Rajasthan Assembly from the Kishangarh constituency in Ajmer district. He later assumed the office of Governor of West Bengal on July 30, 2019.
     
    In 2022, Dhankhar was sworn in as the 14th Vice President of India and also assumed the role of Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
     
    Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also extended his wishes to the Vice President, saying, “Warm wishes to @VPIndia Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar Ji on his birthday. Known for his deep knowledge of the Indian Constitution, he is also admired for his wisdom and tenacity. Our nation is grateful for his tireless efforts and vision. May he be blessed with a long and healthy life.”
     
    Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath joined the leaders in extending his wishes, calling Dhankhar a symbol of simplicity. He said, “Heartiest congratulations to Honourable Vice President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar Ji, a symbol of simplicity, purity, and discipline, on his birthday! I pray to Lord Shri Ram for your good health and long life.”
     
    — IANS

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DH continues to clamp down on illegal waterpipe smoking in no smoking areas (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Tobacco and Alcohol Control Office (TACO) of the Department of Health (DH) continued to clamp down on illegal waterpipe smoking in no smoking areas by conducting another enforcement operation, codenamed “Pipepurge”, in Tsim Sha Tsui last night (May 17) and issued a total of two fixed penalty notices (FPNs).

         During the operation, officers from TACO (including plainclothes officers) carried out inspections and enforcement action at one bar in Tsim Sha Tsui, and issued a total of two FPNs to persons illegally smoking waterpipes. TACO’s investigation is ongoing, and prosecution may also be taken against operators of the bar who are suspected of aiding and abetting smoking offences. TACO will also refer the cases to the Liquor Licensing Board for appropriate follow-up action.

         Under the Ordinance, conducting a smoking act in a statutory no smoking area (such as indoor areas of bars or restaurants) is prohibited. Any person doing a smoking act in statutory no smoking areas is liable to a fixed penalty of $1,500. Moreover, where smoking products (including waterpipes) are sold, in bars or otherwise, the restrictions on the promotion and sale of smoking products stipulated in the Ordinance apply. Offenders are liable on summary conviction to a maximum fine of $50,000. Venue managers of statutory no smoking areas are empowered by the Ordinance to request a smoking offender cease the act; if the offender is not co-operative, the manager may contact the Police for assistance.

         In addition, under the Criminal Procedure Ordinance, any person who aids, abets, counsels or procures the commission by another person of any offence shall be guilty of the same offence.

         “The DH will continue to closely monitor and take stringent enforcement action against illegal waterpipe smoking. Last year (2024), TACO conducted 162 operations against illegal waterpipe smoking activities in no smoking areas. A total of 162 FPNs were issued against smoking offenders, while 89 summonses were issued to staff members and operators of the bars/restaurants for other related offences,” the Head of TACO, Dr Manny Lam said.

         Dr Lam reminded the public that waterpipe is a smoking product, and its combustion of fuel (e.g. charcoal) releases carbon monoxide. Exposure to a low concentration of carbon monoxide can lead to a range of symptoms such as dizziness, headache, tiredness and nausea; whereas exposure to a high concentration of carbon monoxide can lead to impaired vision, disturbed co-ordination, unconsciousness, brain damage or even death. People should seek medical attention immediately if they suspect they are developing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.

         A typical one-hour waterpipe smoking session exposes the user to 100 to 200 times the volume of smoke inhaled from a single conventional cigarette. Moreover, sharing a waterpipe apparatus increases the risk of transmitting infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis.  

         He cautioned against waterpipe smoking and the use of other smoking products. Smokers should quit smoking as early as possible for their own health and that of others. For more information on the hazards of waterpipe smoking, please visit www.livetobaccofree.hk/pdfs/waterpipe_leaflet_new.pdf.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –