NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SCED at APEC MRT Meeting discussion session on AI Innovation for Trade Facilitation (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         â€‹Following is the speech by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, at the discussion session entitled “AI Innovation for Trade Facilitation” at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting in Jeju, Korea, today (May 15):
     
         Good afternoon, Chair and fellow Ministers.
     
         Let me begin by expressing my sincere gratitude to Korea for the warm hospitality extended to the Hong Kong, China (HKC) delegation and for hosting us in this beautiful island of Jeju.
     
         Digitalisation, coupled with artificial intelligence (AI), has been quickly transforming businesses, unlocking new opportunities, and redefining how goods and services move across borders these days. As part of HKC’s wider efforts in developing the AI industry, we have, as early as in 2022, set out clear strategic directions and a detailed action plan for promoting the development of AI in our Hong Kong Innovation and Technology Development Blueprint.
     
         HKC is also keen to embrace the transformative power of AI in trade. For instance, innovative technologies such as AI-powered tools have been adopted to ensure effective enforcement controls while streamlining customs clearance procedures. Our final phase of the Trade Single Window will establish a highly automated cargo risk assessment engine to expedite clearance using AI, and we expect this to be rolled out next year. Our Customs and Excise Department is also modernising its information technology infrastructure, thus enabling the use of a sophisticated data pipeline with the latest AI technologies.
      
         As with every new innovative development, whilst we grasp the opportunities and benefits, it is at the same time crucial to ensure such developments are ethical, responsible and inclusive. To this end, HKC has adopted a pro-innovation regulatory approach to construct a well-balanced governance framework that could cater to all stakeholders in the AI ecosystem. Just a few weeks ago, the Hong Kong Generative Artificial Intelligence Technical and Application Guideline was released to provide practical operational guidelines for technology developers, service providers and users in the application of generative AI technology. Furthermore, we plan to amend our legislation in order to further enhance HKC’s copyright regime regarding protection for AI technology development.
     
         We recognise that AI is utilised across different sectors, with trade being just one of them. We are also acutely aware that there are a number of ongoing discussions in international forums to discuss AI development, including rules setting and governance. This notwithstanding, we see much room for collaboration amongst member economies on AI in trade, particularly on its applications for trade facilitation measures and customs procedures in APEC.
     
         In the current era with rising protectionism and unilateralism, it has become even more important for APEC to showcase to the world that regional economic co-operation in the area of AI matters and can bring benefits to the people of the entire region. APEC should leverage its role to foster regional dialogue on ensuring safe and responsible use of AI for trade, exchange experiences and knowledge, promote public-private collaboration, enhance transparency of regulatory frameworks, and strengthen partnerships among member economies, taking into account the different development stages of member economies.
     
         HKC is ready to contribute and collaborate with fellow member economies to harness AI for trade and to drive high-quality growth across the region.
     
         Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SCED at APEC MRT Meeting discussion session on Connectivity through Multilateral Trading System (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, at the discussion session entitled “Connectivity through Multilateral Trading System” at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting in Jeju, Korea, today (May 15):

         Good afternoon, Chair, WTO Director-General (Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala), and colleagues.

         The recent upheaval caused by one economy’s unilateral tariff measures on all other economies poses a threat to the multilateral trading system, representing an imminent challenge to the global trade landscape today.

         We are pleased to note the substantive progress made at the high-level meetings between two economies, where both sides have agreed to significantly reduce their bilateral tariffs and continue discussions in a spirit of openness, continuous communication, co-operation and mutual respect. This development marks a pivotal step towards fostering stability in global trade and reinforces our shared commitment to advancing constructive economic relations within the APEC region and beyond. Continued collaboration under this framework will undoubtedly contribute to inclusive growth and a rules-based multilateral trading system.

         Hong Kong, China (HKC), as one of the freest economies in the world, reaffirms our unwavering commitment to free trade principles and the WTO-centred multilateral trading system. We firmly believe that sustainable solutions to trade disputes can only be achieved through constructive dialogue, adherence to internationally agreed rules, and a shared pursuit of equitable outcomes. We call upon all members to unite in defending the open, predictable and inclusive character of global trade.

         As the WTO commemorates its 30th anniversary this year, it is deeply disheartening to witness one of its founding members attempting to rip the organisation apart, after years of unilateral action in crippling its dispute settlement function. While reforms are indeed necessary to keep the decades-old organisation relevant amid evolving global challenges, aggressive and erratic trade actions that create economic chaos only serve to escalate tensions and instability.

         As a free port, HKC has long championed free trade in the past and remains firmly committed to the rules-based multilateral trading system now and in the future. We remain committed to engaging in constructive dialogues to enhance the WTO’s functionality, resilience and effectiveness. At this critical time, we call on APEC member economies who cherish the multilateral trading system to collaborate closely to uphold and strengthen the system, thereby safeguarding global economic stability.

         Looking ahead to the 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) which is less than a year away, with the rapidly evolving situation, telling what lies ahead until then may seem elusive. Nevertheless, HKC remains hopeful and determined to achieve tangible and positive outcomes at MC14 – many of which are in fact long overdue. Beyond the dispute settlement reform, our priorities include bringing into force the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies and concluding the second wave of the fisheries subsidies negotiations, both of which are still so near, yet so far. We must strive to finish the unfinished business at MC13 to incorporate the plurilateral Investment Facilitation for Development (IFD) Agreement into the WTO legal architecture. In this regard, we fully support the APEC Statement in support of the WTO Joint Statement Initiative on IFD, championed by Korea, which would send a strong political signal of APEC’s commitment to the swift and successful integration of this landmark agreement into the WTO framework.

         We also stand by finding a permanent solution to, or at least securing an extension of the WTO e-commerce moratorium, and support the early incorporation of the Agreement on Electronic Commerce into the WTO legal framework, which will provide the much needed clarity and stability for e-commerce business worldwide. We strongly encourage APEC member economies to intensify collaborative efforts to achieve these goals by MC14. Demonstrating concrete progress will assure the global community that the WTO remains vibrant, effective and capable of addressing contemporary trade challenges effectively.

         Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SCED urges APEC member economies to unite in defending rules-based multilateral trading system (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, stressed the importance of upholding the rules-based multilateral trading system at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministers Responsible for Trade (MRT) Meeting in Jeju, Korea, today (May 15).
     
         Speaking at the session entitled “Connectivity through Multilateral Trading System”, Mr Yau said that the recent upheaval caused by unilateral tariff measures poses a threat to the multilateral trading system, representing an imminent challenge to the global trade landscape. The substantive progress made at the high-level meetings between two economies, where both sides have agreed to significantly reduce their bilateral tariffs and continue discussions in a spirit of openness, continuous communication, co-operation and mutual respect, marked a pivotal step towards fostering stability in global trade and reinforces the shared commitment to advancing constructive economic relations within the APEC region and beyond.
     
         He pointed out that, as a free port, Hong Kong has long championed free trade in the past and remains firmly committed to the rules-based multilateral trading system now and in the future. Hong Kong also remains committed to engaging in constructive dialogues to enhance the World Trade Organization (WTO)’s functionality, resilience and effectiveness.
     
         Mr Yau called upon member economies to unite in defending the open, predictable and inclusive character of global trade and to collaborate closely to uphold and strengthen the system, thereby safeguarding global economic stability.
     
         Meanwhile, Mr Yau encouraged member economies to intensify collaborative efforts to finish the unfinished business at the 13th WTO Ministerial Conference, such as bringing into force the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, and incorporating the plurilateral Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement into the WTO legal architecture. Demonstrating concrete progress will assure the global community that the WTO remains vibrant, effective and capable of addressing contemporary trade challenges effectively.
     
         At another discussion session entitled “AI Innovation for Trade Facilitation”, Mr Yau said that digitalisation, coupled with AI, has been quickly transforming businesses, unlocking new opportunities, and redefining how goods and services move across borders these days.
     
         He noted that Hong Kong is keen to embrace the transformative power of AI in trade. For instance, innovative technologies such as AI-powered tools have been adopted to ensure effective enforcement controls while streamlining customs clearance procedures. The final phase of the Trade Single Window will establish a highly automated cargo risk assessment engine to expedite clearance using AI.
     
         Mr Yau said that while there are a number of ongoing discussions in international forums to discuss AI development, including rules setting and governance, there is much room for collaboration among member economies on AI in trade. He added that in the current era with rising protectionism and unilateralism, it has become even more important for APEC to showcase to the world that regional economic co-operation in the area of AI matters and can bring benefits to the people of the entire region. He added that Hong Kong is ready to contribute and collaborate with fellow member economies to harness AI for trade and to drive high-quality growth across the region.
     
         On the margins of the MRT Meeting today, Mr Yau met with the China International Trade Representative and Vice Minister of Commerce, Mr Li Chenggang; the Deputy Minister for Trade of Korea, Mr Park Jong-won; as well as the Minister for Trade and Investment of New Zealand, Mr Todd McClay, separately to exchange views on various issues of mutual concern.
     
         Mr Yau also paid a courtesy call on the Governor of Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, Mr Oh Young Hun, yesterday (May 14) to give him an update on the latest developments of Hong Kong and exchange views on promoting closer bilateral relations.
     
         Mr Yau will continue to join the MRT Meeting tomorrow (May 16).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Joint press release of PBoC, SFC and HKMA on further enriching product types of Swap Connect to facilitate high-level opening-up of Mainland’s financial markets

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Joint press release of PBoC, SFC and HKMA on further enriching product types of Swap Connect to facilitate high-level opening-up of Mainland’s financial markets 
    To further promote the collaborative development of financial derivatives markets on the Mainland and in Hong Kong, as well as the high-level opening-up of Mainland’s financial markets, after assessing the operational experience of Swap Connect and feedback from Mainland and offshore investors, the People’s Bank of China, the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission and the Hong Kong Monetary Authority plan to further enrich the product types under Swap Connect. First, the tenor of interest rate swap contracts would be extended to 30 years to meet the diverse risk management needs of market institutions. Second, the product scope of Swap Connect would be expanded by including interest rate swap contracts using the Loan Prime Rate (LPR) as the reference rate. Relevant financial infrastructure operators in both markets will roll out these enhancement measures progressively.
     
    Looking ahead, regulatory authorities on the Mainland and in Hong Kong will continue to provide guidance to the financial market infrastructure operators in both markets to continue to enhance relevant arrangements, taking into account the operation experience of Swap Connect, with a view to steadily advancing the further opening-up of Mainland’s financial markets, promoting RMB internationalisation in a steady, orderly and sound manner, and supporting the successful development of Hong Kong as an international financial centre.
    Issued at HKT 17:12

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Annual inflation in Mongolia in April 2025 was 8.6 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 15 (Xinhua) — Mongolia’s annual inflation rate stood at 8.6 percent in April 2025, local media reported on Thursday, citing data from the country’s National Statistical Committee.

    The rise in inflation in Mongolia is due to the increase in real estate prices and tariffs for housing and communal services, water, electricity, gas and other types of fuel /21.7 percent/, educational services /18.2 percent/, catering services, accommodation in hostels and hotels /16.7 percent/, food products, soft drinks and mineral water /10.5 percent/ and clothing, textiles and footwear /9.1 percent/, the official statement says.

    Currently, the Central Bank of Mongolia is working to maintain the inflation rate within 5 percent (plus or minus 2 percentage points) in order to ensure macroeconomic and financial stability in the medium term.

    According to the Central Bank, in March 2025, annual inflation in Mongolia was 9.1 percent. At the same time, in the capital Ulaanbaatar, where more than half of the country’s 3.5 million population lives, this figure rose to 10.1 percent.

    Mongolia’s economy is expected to grow by 6.6 percent in 2025. According to experts from the Asian Development Bank, the country’s economic growth will be mainly supported by an increase in mining, in particular an increase in copper concentrate production at the Oyu Tolgoi deposit, as well as by robust domestic demand, investment in infrastructure and a gradual recovery in agriculture. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Ministers Meet to Tackle Global Uncertainty and Rebuild Multilateral Trade System Jeju, Republic of Korea | 15 May 2025 Issued by the APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting Amid rising global trade and economic uncertainty, trade ministers are convening today for the 2025 APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting.

    Source: APEC – Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation

    Amid rising global trade and economic uncertainty, ministers responsible for trade from APEC’s 21 economies  convene today for the 2025 APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade (MRT) Meeting.

    Hosted by Korea on the UNESCO World Natural Heritage-listed Jeju Island, the meeting opened with a powerful call for cooperation and renewal of trust in the multilateral trading system.

    Chairing the meeting, Korea’s Minister for Trade Inkyo Cheong welcomed his counterparts and reflected on the island’s significance to APEC’s history and to the global trade community.

    “I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to everyone who has made the journey all the way to Jeju Island for this year’s APEC MRT meeting,” Minister Cheong said. “As one of the founding members of APEC in 1989, Korea began by hosting a multilateral meeting in 1991 in Seoul and hosted the MRT meeting in this very island in 2005.”

    “Two decades since then, I am honored to serve as the Chair of this gathering,” Minister Cheong added. “However, I also feel a sense of weight on my shoulders.”

    Minister Cheong acknowledged that APEC economies are facing overlapping challenges that are putting challenges on the global trade landscape.

    “As cross-border trade and interconnected supply chains continue to expand, growing uncertainties are placing a strain on the global economy and trade landscape,” he said. “Given this challenging global trade environment, the role of APEC is more crucial than ever. This is the reason why the world is paying keen attention to this year’s MRT meeting.”

    He emphasized that the discussions in Jeju would center on restoring multilateralism and positioning APEC economies for the future under the 2025 host economy’s theme of “Building a Sustainable Tomorrow – Connect, Innovate, Prosper”. Ministers will explore topics including artificial intelligence innovation for trade facilitation, the future of the World Trade Organization and the multilateral trading system, as well as ways to promote prosperity through sustainable trade.

    Highlighting the first session on artificial intelligence, he noted, “For the midst of the rapid transition toward the digital economy, AI is being adopted across a wide range of sectors.”

    He also introduced the second session on connectivity through the multilateral trading system. “Discussions on the multilateral trading system including the WTO have long been a focus of the MRT meeting,” he said. “WTO Director-General, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, will open this session by introducing the topic for discussion. Given the varying opinions on the role and the direction of the WTO, I look forward to hearing insight and diverse views.”

    Closing the agenda, ministers will address prosperity through sustainable trade. “Given the many challenges facing the multilateral trading system, the very existence and the role of APEC has become increasingly evident. Indeed, I believe the outcomes of our discussions will resonate over the world,” said Cheong.

    He ended on a hopeful note, invoking Jeju’s spirit of resilience and collaboration. “Jeju Island has long embodied the values of community in its way of life. Under this spirit, I hope today’s MRT meeting will raise a solid foundation for dialogue and collaboration to overcome the political and economic challenges as well as uncertainties that we encounter.”

    “Building on the progress of today’s meeting, I look forward to producing meaningful outcomes at the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week,” Minister Cheong concluded.

    For further information or media inquiries, please contact:
    [email protected]

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing to host Women’s Volleyball Nations League in June

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

    Beijing is gearing up to host one leg of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Nations League preliminary round from June 4 to 8 at the National Indoor Stadium, featuring six women’s teams: China, Belgium, Poland, Thailand, Türkiye and France.

    “This marks the first international event for China’s women’s volleyball team in the new Olympic cycle after Paris 2024,” said Yuan Lei, deputy director of the volleyball management center of the General Administration of Sport of China, at a Thursday press conference.

    Ali Frantti (R) of the United States spikes during the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) Volleyball Nations League Women’s Pool 2 match between Brazil and the United States in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, May 17, 2024. (Xinhua/Wang Tiancong)

    “As a dual Olympic venue in Beijing, the National Indoor Stadium has world-class facilities and operating teams, which will ensure excellent volleyball competitions for both the participants and the audience,” Yuan added.

    12 matches will be played across the five-day event, with China set to face Belgium, Poland, Türkiye and France on June 4, 5, 7 and 8, respectively.

    The Beijing stop is part of the international Volleyball Nations League tour, which spans several cities and continents as teams compete for points to reach the final round.

    Also unveiled at the press conference were the event mascot – featuring a volleyball-themed design – and more than 20 licensed products.

    “The organizers will strive to create a cheerful atmosphere of volleyball and accelerate the integrated development of sports and tourism,” said Wang Ling, director of the Beijing Sports Competitions Administration and International Exchange Center. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • J&K: Three terrorists killed in Awantipora under Operation Nader

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Three terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the Nader area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Awantipora, the Indian Army said on Thursday.

    “Three hardcore terrorists have been eliminated in the ongoing operation at Nader, Awantipora. The identity of the terrorists is being ascertained”, the Chinar Corps said in a post on X.

    https://x.com/ChinarcorpsIA/status/1922921351259513177

    Earlier on Thursday, security forces launched a joint anti-terror operation in the Nader area of Tral, Awantipora, based on special intelligence input. The Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and CRPF were involved in the operation

    The Indian Army’s Chinar Corps confirmed the operation in a post on the social media platform X. “On 15 May 2025, based on specific intelligence input from an agency, a Cordon & Search Operation was launched at Nader, Tral, Awantipora. Upon being challenged, terrorists opened heavy fire. A fierce gunfight ensued. The operation is in progress.”

    On Tuesday, three terrorists — including a local commander of Lashkar-e-Taiba and its proxy outfit The Resistance Front (LeT/TRF) — were killed in an encounter in Shopian. The operation, carried out by the Army along with J&K Police and the CRPF, led to the recovery of AK-series rifles, grenades, and a large cache of ammunition.

     

  • DRDO develops advanced polymeric membrane for desalination of sea water

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully developed a high-pressure nanoporous multi-layered polymeric membrane for seawater desalination. The advanced membrane, designed to withstand harsh saline conditions, has been developed by the Kanpur-based Defence Materials Stores and Research & Development Establishment (DMSRDE), a premier laboratory under DRDO.

    According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence on Thursday, the indigenous technology has been specifically tailored to meet the operational needs of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ships. The development, completed in a record time of just eight months, addresses the serious challenge of membrane degradation caused by exposure to chloride ions in saline water.

    DMSRDE, in collaboration with the Indian Coast Guard, has successfully conducted initial technical trials using the new membrane in an existing desalination unit onboard an Offshore Patrolling Vessel (OPV). The initial safety and performance results have been found to be fully satisfactory, the Ministry said.

    “The final operational clearance will be given by ICG after 500 hours of operational testing,” the statement added.

    Currently, the new membrane is undergoing further trials on an OPV. Once fully approved, it holds the potential to significantly benefit desalination efforts in coastal areas, with minor modifications for civilian use as well.

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tentative issuance schedule for Exchange Fund Bills and Notes

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

    The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) issued today (May 15) a tentative issuance schedule for Exchange Fund Bills and Notes (EFBNs) for the coming quarter of July to September 2025. The schedule contains information on the tentative tender dates, issue sizes and issue dates of individual issues, representing rollover of maturing issues and taking into account planned adjustments to the maturity spectrum of the EFBN portfolio.

    The quarterly schedule is issued in the second month of each quarter (i.e. February, May, August and November), covering the EFBN tenders in the following quarter.

    It should be noted that the tender dates, issue sizes and issue dates projected in the advance issuance schedule are tentative. The details of new issues of Exchange Fund Bills are to be confirmed and announced at least four business days prior to the respective tender dates. The details of new issues of Exchange Fund Notes are to be confirmed and announced seven business days prior to their respective tender dates. The HKMA may make changes in the light of prevailing market conditions.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Volume and price statistics of external merchandise trade in March 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Further to the external merchandise trade statistics in value terms for March 2025 released earlier on, the Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) released today (May 15) the volume and price statistics of external merchandise trade for that month.
     
         In March 2025, the volume of Hong Kong’s total exports of goods and imports of goods increased by 15.8% and 13.5% respectively over March 2024.
     
         For the first quarter of 2025 as a whole, the volume of Hong Kong’s total exports of goods and imports of goods increased by 8.7% and 7.3% respectively over the same period in 2024.
     
         Comparing the first quarter of 2025 with the fourth quarter of 2024 on a seasonally adjusted basis, the volume of total exports of goods and imports of goods increased by 9.5% and 7.5% respectively.
     
         Changes in volume of external merchandise trade are derived from changes in external merchandise trade value with the effect of price changes discounted.
     
         Comparing March 2025 with March 2024, the prices of total exports of goods and imports of goods both increased by 2.1%.
     
         As regards price changes in the first quarter of 2025 over the same period in 2024, the prices of total exports of goods and imports of goods increased by 1.9% and 2.0% respectively.
     
         Price changes in external merchandise trade are reflected by changes in unit value indices of external merchandise trade, which are compiled based on average unit values or, for certain commodities, specific price data.
     
         The terms of trade index is derived from the ratio of price index of total exports of goods to that of imports of goods. Compared with the same periods in 2024, the index remained virtually unchanged in March 2025, whereas it decreased by 0.1% in the first quarter of 2025.
     
         Changes in the unit value and volume of total exports of goods by main destination are shown in Table 1.
     
         Comparing March 2025 with March 2024, increases were recorded for the total export volume to Taiwan (52.4%), Vietnam (40.0%), the mainland of China (the Mainland) (22.3%) and the USA (9.6%). On the other hand, the total export volume to India decreased by 7.0%.
     
         Over the same period of comparison, the total export prices to Taiwan (5.7%), the Mainland (2.1%), Vietnam (1.4%) and the USA (1.2%) increased. On the other hand, the total export prices to India decreased by 0.7%.
     
         Changes in the unit value and volume of imports of goods by main supplier are shown in Table 2.
     
         Comparing March 2025 with March 2024, increases were recorded for the import volume from Vietnam (80.6%), Taiwan (66.4%) and the Mainland (7.2%). On the other hand, the import volume from Singapore (-4.6%) and Korea (-26.9%) decreased.
     
         Over the same period of comparison, the import prices from all main suppliers increased: Korea (6.7%), Taiwan (3.4%), Singapore (2.7%), Vietnam (2.6%) and the Mainland (0.5%).
     
    Further information
     
         Details of the above statistics are published in the March 2025 issue of “Hong Kong Merchandise Trade Index Numbers”.  Users can browse and download the report at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1020006&scode=230).
     
         Enquiries on merchandise trade indices may be directed to the Trade Analysis Section of the C&SD (Tel: 2582 4918).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Are nukes safe in the hands of a rogue nation?: Rajnath Singh targets Pakistan, praises Indian forces for Operation Sindoor

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited Srinagar on Thursday and lauded the armed forces for their successful execution of Operation Sindoor. During his visit, Singh raised concerns over Pakistan’s ability to manage nuclear weapons, questioning the safety of such weapons in the hands of a “rogue” nation.

    Addressing the armed forces, the defence minister said, “The world knows that our army’s aim is precise, and when they hit the target, they leave the counting to the enemy. How strong is India’s commitment against terrorism today? It can be seen from the fact that we did not even care about their nuclear blackmail. The whole world has witnessed how irresponsibly Pakistan has threatened India. Today, from the land of Srinagar, I want to raise this question: Are nuclear weapons safe in the hands of such an irresponsible and rogue nation? I believe that Pakistan’s nuclear weapons should be placed under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).”

    “The entire country is proud of what you did during Operation Sindoor under the able leadership and guidance of our Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I may be your Defence Minister, but before that, I am a citizen of India. The people of Jammu and Kashmir have expressed their anger towards Pakistan and terrorism with complete unity. I congratulate the people of Jammu and Kashmir. I have come to feel the energy that has destroyed the enemy. The way you destroyed the Pakistani posts and weavers across the border, the enemy can never forget that”, Singh added.

    The Union Minister began his address with the chant of “Bharat Mata ki Jai” and paid tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives while battling terrorism.

    “First of all, I would like to bow to the supreme sacrifice of the brave jawans who fought against terrorism. I pay my respects to their memory. I also pay respect to the innocent civilians who were killed in Pahalgam. I salute the valour of the injured soldiers and pray to God for their swift recovery,” Singh said.

    Earlier, Singh took stock of the prevailing security situation, evaluated the combat readiness of the IAF, and inspected Pakistani shells that had been dropped in the border areas.

    (ANI)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Taiwan FDI Statistics Summary Analysis (April 2025)

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    According to the statistics, 642 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects with a total amount of US$2,831,904,000 were approved from January to April 2024. This indicates a decrease of 7.36% in the number of cases, but an increase of 66.69% in FDI amount compared to the same period of 2024.

    With regard to inward investment from Mainland China, 6 cases were approved with an amount of US$96,469,000 from January to April 2025. This indicates a decrease of 45.45% in the number of cases, but an increase of 760.05% in the FDI amount compared to the same period of 2024.

    In terms of Taiwan’s outbound investment (excluding Mainland China), 248 projects were registered from January to April 2025 with a total amount of US$13,480,582,000, indicating an increase of 2.06% in the number of cases, and an increase of 12.34% in the amount, as compared to the same period of 2024.

    As for Taiwan’s outward investment to Mainland China, 58 applications have been approved from January to April 2025, indicating a decrease of 38.3% compared to the same period of 2024. The approved investment amount is US$432,607,000, 60.03% less than the same period in 2024.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Are nukes safe in the hands of a rogue nation?: Rajnath Singh targets Pakistan, praises Indian forces

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited Srinagar on Thursday and lauded the armed forces for their successful execution of Operation Sindoor. During his visit, Singh raised concerns over Pakistan’s ability to manage nuclear weapons, questioning the safety of such weapons in the hands of a “rogue” nation.

    Addressing the armed forces, the defence minister said, “The world knows that our army’s aim is precise, and when they hit the target, they leave the counting to the enemy. How strong is India’s commitment against terrorism today? It can be seen from the fact that we did not even care about their nuclear blackmail. The whole world has witnessed how irresponsibly Pakistan has threatened India. Today, from the land of Srinagar, I want to raise this question: Are nuclear weapons safe in the hands of such an irresponsible and rogue nation? I believe that Pakistan’s nuclear weapons should be placed under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).”

    “The entire country is proud of what you did during Operation Sindoor under the able leadership and guidance of our Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I may be your Defence Minister, but before that, I am a citizen of India. The people of Jammu and Kashmir have expressed their anger towards Pakistan and terrorism with complete unity. I congratulate the people of Jammu and Kashmir. I have come to feel the energy that has destroyed the enemy. The way you destroyed the Pakistani posts and weavers across the border, the enemy can never forget that”, Singh added.

    The Union Minister began his address with the chant of “Bharat Mata ki Jai” and paid tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives while battling terrorism.

    “First of all, I would like to bow to the supreme sacrifice of the brave jawans who fought against terrorism. I pay my respects to their memory. I also pay respect to the innocent civilians who were killed in Pahalgam. I salute the valour of the injured soldiers and pray to God for their swift recovery,” Singh said.

    Earlier, Singh took stock of the prevailing security situation, evaluated the combat readiness of the IAF, and inspected Pakistani shells that had been dropped in the border areas.

    (ANI)

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Women Entrepreneurs in Rural Mongolia Turn to Traditional Knowledge for Survival

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Women in rural Mongolia face constant challenges due to the country’s harsh environment. They must navigate extreme weather to protect their herds and sustain agriculture livelihood to support their families. As temperatures fluctuate and winters grow harsher, the challenge to adapt has become a fight to survive.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Futu to Report First Quarter 2025 Financial Results on May 29, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HONG KONG, May 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Futu Holdings Limited (“Futu” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: FUTU), a leading tech-driven online brokerage and wealth management platform, today announced that it will report its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025, before U.S. markets open on May 29, 2025.

    Futu’s management will hold an earnings conference call on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at 7:30 AM U.S. Eastern Time (7:30 PM on the same day, Beijing/Hong Kong Time).

    Please note that all participants will need to pre-register for the conference call, using the link

    https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIb0180ca92acc4f49b995ccdec654eeb4.

    It will automatically lead to the registration page of “Futu Holdings Ltd First Quarter 2025 Earnings Conference Call”, where details for RSVP are needed.

    Upon registering, all participants will be provided in confirmation emails with participant dial-in numbers and personal PINs to access the conference call. Please dial in 10 minutes prior to the call start time using the conference access information.

    Additionally, a live and archived webcast of this conference call will be available at https://ir.futuholdings.com/.

    About Futu Holdings Limited

    Futu Holdings Limited (Nasdaq: FUTU) is an advanced technology company transforming the investing experience by offering fully digitalized financial services. Through its proprietary digital platforms, Futubull and moomoo, the Company provides a full range of investment services, including trade execution and clearing, margin financing and securities lending, and wealth management. The Company has embedded social media tools to create a network centered around its users and provide connectivity to users, investors, companies, analysts, media and key opinion leaders. The Company also provides corporate services, including IPO distribution, investor relations and ESOP solution services.

    Investor Contact

    Investor Relations
    Futu Holdings Limited
    ir@futuholdings.com

    The MIL Network –

  • Gravity study shows why the moon’s two sides look so different

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An exhaustive examination of lunar gravity using data obtained by two NASA robotic spacecraft is offering new clues about why the two sides of the moon – the one perpetually facing Earth and the other always facing away – look so different. 

    The data from the U.S. space agency’s GRAIL, or Gravity Recovery and Interior Laboratory, mission indicates that the moon’s deep interior has an asymmetrical structure, apparently caused by intense volcanism on its nearside billions of years ago that helped shape its surface features. 

    The researchers discovered that the lunar nearside flexes slightly more than the farside during its elliptical orbit around Earth, thanks to our planet’s gravitational influence – a process called tidal deformation. This indicates differences in the two sides of the lunar interior, they said, specifically in the geological layer called the mantle. 

    “Our study shows that the moon’s interior is not uniform: the side facing Earth – the nearside – is warmer and more geologically active deep down than the farside,” said Ryan Park, supervisor of the Solar System Dynamics Group at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California and lead author of the study published on Wednesday in the journal Nature. 

    The moon’s nearside is covered by vast plains, called mare, formed from molten rock that cooled and solidified billions of years ago. Its farside has much more rugged terrain, with few plains. 

    Some scientists have hypothesized that intense volcanism within the nearside caused radioactive, heat-generating elements to accumulate on that side of the mantle, drove the surface differences observed today. The new findings offer the strongest evidence yet to support this notion. 

    The researchers estimated that the nearside mantle on average is about 180-360 degrees Fahrenheit (100-200 degrees Celsius) hotter than the farside, with the thermal difference perhaps sustained by radioactive decay of the elements thorium and titanium on the nearside. 

    “The moon’s nearside and farside look very different, as shown by differences in topography, crustal thickness, and the amount of heat-producing elements inside,” Park said. 

    The moon’s diameter of about 2,160 miles (3,475 km) is a bit more than a quarter of Earth’s diameter. The lunar mantle is the layer located beneath the crust and above the core, spanning a depth of about 22-870 miles (35-1,400 km) under the surface. The mantle makes up roughly 80% of the moon’s mass and volume and is composed mostly of the minerals olivine and pyroxene, similar to Earth’s mantle. 

    “The fact that the detected asymmetry in the mantle matches the pattern of the surface geology – for instance, differences in the abundance of the approximately 3-4 billion-year-old mare basalts (volcanic rock) between the nearside and the farside – suggests that processes which drove ancient lunar volcanism are active today,” said Caltech computational planetary scientist and study co-author Alex Berne, affiliated with the Jet Propulsion Laboratory working on the design of gravity sensors for missions to the outer solar system. 

    The researchers spent years analysing data from GRAIL’s Ebb and Flow spacecraft, which orbited the moon from December 2011 to December 2012. 

    “Our study delivers the most detailed and accurate gravitational map of the moon to date,” Park said. 

    “This enhanced gravity map is a critical foundation for developing lunar Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT) systems, which are essential for the success of future lunar exploration missions. By improving our understanding of the moon’s gravity field, it contributes to establishing a precise lunar reference frame and time system, enabling safer and more reliable navigation for spacecraft and surface operations,” Park added. 

    The same approach employed here, using gravity data to assess the lunar interior, the researchers said, could be applied to other bodies in the solar system, such as Saturn’s moon Enceladus and Jupiter’s moon Ganymede, two worlds of interest in the search for potential life beyond Earth. 

    In the meantime, the new findings add to the understanding of Earth’s eternal companion. 

    “The moon plays a vital role in stabilizing Earth’s rotation and generating ocean tides, which influence natural systems and daily rhythms,” Park said. “Our knowledge of the moon has expanded through human and robotic missions that have revealed details about its surface and interior, yet many questions about its deep structure and history remain. As our closest neighbour, the moon continues to be an important focus of scientific discovery.” 

    –Reuters

  • India among few countries to record rise in forest cover: SBI report

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India ranks among the top 10 countries globally that have recorded a rise in forest cover over the years, according to an SBI Research report released on Thursday.

    The report highlights that while India’s forest cover remained largely unchanged between 1991 and 2011, it has seen a steady increase since then.

    “The relationship between urbanisation and forest cover follows a U-shaped pattern,” the report notes. “In the early stages, urban growth tends to cause deforestation. However, as urbanisation progresses, policies such as urban greening, forest conservation programmes, and sustainable land-use planning are introduced, leading to the recovery and expansion of forest areas.”

    India is undergoing rapid urbanisation. As per Census 2011, 31.1% of the population lived in urban areas—a figure expected to rise to 35–37% by Census 2024. Once urbanisation crosses the 40% mark, its impact on forest cover is expected to turn positive. Initiatives like the Smart Cities Mission and Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) are therefore crucial to integrating green infrastructure and building urban ecological resilience.

    According to the latest assessment, India’s megacities have a combined forest cover of 511.81 sq km, constituting 10.26% of their total geographical area. Among these, Delhi has the largest forest cover, followed by Mumbai and Bengaluru.

    Between 2021 and 2023, Ahmedabad saw the highest gain in forest cover, followed by Bengaluru. Conversely, Chennai and Hyderabad recorded the largest losses.

    The forestry sector contributes approximately 1.3–1.6% to India’s Gross Value Added (GVA), supporting industries such as furniture, construction, and paper manufacturing. India is estimated to have 35 billion trees, which translates to an economic contribution of about Rs 100 in GVA per tree.

    The report also points to regional disparities in forest cover. States like Odisha, Mizoram, and Jharkhand are witnessing an increase, while North-Eastern and hilly states such as Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh already have a significant portion of their land under forest cover. In contrast, states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab have less than 10% of their area under forests.

    To further improve forest sustainability, the report recommends expanding biodiversity hotspots and incentivising private sector involvement through CSR initiatives and carbon offset markets. Enhanced monitoring using satellite data and digital databases can also help curb encroachment and protect critical forest areas.

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Since the beginning of 2025, the volume of cargo transportation through the Khorgos railway checkpoint has exceeded 5 million tons

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    URUMQI, May 15 (Xinhua) — The cargo turnover through the Horgos railway checkpoint on the China-Kazakhstan border in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has exceeded 5 million tons since the beginning of 2025, up 21.1 percent year on year as of May 14, according to data from the Horgos Customs Office.

    During the reporting period, the number of freight trains running on the China-Europe/China-Central Asia international railway freight transportation routes via the Khorgos railway checkpoint continued to increase. A wider range of Chinese-made goods, including daily necessities, electromechanical equipment, electronic products, agricultural products and by-products, are shipped from Xinjiang railway border crossings to Central Asian and European markets.

    At present, a total of over 45,000 China-Europe/China-Central Asia freight trains have passed through the Khorgos railway checkpoint, with the total number of such routes reaching 87, covering 46 cities and regions in 18 countries. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Neeraj Chopra conferred honorary rank of Lt Colonel

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s star athlete Neeraj Chopra has been conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army. The double Olympic medallist’s appointment, published in The Gazette of India, came into effect on April 16.

    Chopra, who made history by becoming India’s first Olympic gold medallist in track and field at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, cemented his legacy with a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Games. With two Olympic medals, he is now India’s most successful individual Olympian.

    He was earlier enrolled as a Junior Commissioned Officer in the rank of Naib Subedar in the Indian Army on 26 August 2016. He was promoted to Subedar in 2021 following his heroics in Tokyo.

    Chopra has joined a distinguished list of Indian Olympians who have been honoured with military titles. Abhinav Bindra, the nation’s first individual gold medallist from the 2008 Beijing Olympics, was conferred the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, while shooter Vijay Kumar was made an honorary Captain following his silver medal win in 2012.

    Former India cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni was awarded the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in 2011, following his leadership in India’s T20 World Cup (2007) and ODI World Cup (2011) victories.

    IANS

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Cortez Masto and Ernst, and Reps. Case and Aumua Amata Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Pacific Partnership Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Aumua Amata (Western Samoa)

     

    Bill to Strengthen Strategic Relationships with Pacific Islands, and Counter Chinese Aggression in the Region

    Washington, D.C. – On Tuesday, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Congressman Ed Case (D-Hawaii-01), and Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata (American Samoa) introduced a bipartisan, bicameral bill aimed at strengthening the United States’ strategic partnerships with Pacific Island nations, supporting sustainable development, and combating the increasing Chinese aggression in the region. The Pacific Partnership Act would help the U.S. establish a clear, comprehensive strategy to support diplomatic, security, and economic relationships in the Indo-Pacific region.

    “Thank you to Senator Cortez Masto, Senator Ernst, and Congressman Case for their focus on these important partnerships that are close to home for my congressional district in the South Pacific,” said Congresswoman Aumua Amata, who serves on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, including as Vice Chairman of its Subcommittee on East Asia and the Pacific. “We need sustained U.S. engagement for enduring partnerships in the Pacific Islands, keeping China’s influence in check, and strengthening mutual development opportunities.”

    “Our Pacific Partnership Act responds directly to the reality that our country’s and world’s future lies in the Indo-Pacific, and that the islands of the Pacific are our indispensable partners in charting that future,” said Congressman Case. “The Pacific Islands are under increasingly severe economic, environmental and geopolitical stress, and we must expand our generational engagement to assist them where they most need assistance. The Pacific Partnership Act, molded directly on the Pacific Islands’ own blueprint to their collective future, is our roadmap to expanded engagement as well.”

    “Supporting our allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific is essential to combating the Chinese Communist Party’s influence and to our long-term national security,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “This bipartisan bill is critical to strengthening our ties with our allies in the Pacific and ensuring they become enduring global relationships.”

    “Strengthening America’s partnerships in the Indo-Pacific is critical to deterring Chinese aggression,” said Senator Ernst. “This bipartisan legislation equips us to work with nations in the Pacific that serve as the first line of defense against the Chinese Communist Party and keep Americans safe at home.”

    The U.S. has a longstanding relationship with the Pacific Islands, and they play a crucial role in U.S. national security, facilitating military operations in support of American allies and partners. Nevada – through the National Guard – collaborates with the Republic of Fiji, the Kingdom of Tonga, and the Independent State of Samoa under the National Guard Bureau’s State Partnership Program, strengthening security cooperation globally. 

    The Pacific Partnership Act would strengthen these crucial ties by creating a “Strategy for Pacific Partnership.” This strategy, crafted by the President and presented to Congress every four years, would outline U.S. involvement in the Pacific Islands and highlight combined efforts to combat regional challenges including natural disasters, security threats, and economic development.

    The national news release from Sen. Cortez Masto is available here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Arts carnival tickets to go on sale

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The annual summer arts festival International Arts Carnival will be held from July to August and tickets will go on sale from tomorrow.

     

    This year, overseas artists will come from the Netherlands, Korea, Norway and the US. Together with their Mainland and local counterparts, they will present a wide variety of performing arts programmes covering martial arts, acrobatics, dance, music, theatre, multimedia and more.

     

    The opening programme will be the martial arts theatre performance Soul of Shaolin featuring elite performers of the Henan Provincial Shaolin Wushu Center from July 11 to 13.

     

    To celebrate the upcoming 15th National Games, the carnival will present Sounds of Sports on August 2 and 3, in which local musicians and athletes will combine karate, rugby, wushu and table tennis with jazz drums, shakuhachi, erhu, cello and piano.

     

    Films from around the world for families will also be screened under the Summer Family Cine Fest.

     

    Tickets will be available at URBTIX.

     

    The carnival also offers a wide range of parent-child workshops, an online programme, an outreach performance and an exhibition.

     

    For enquiries, call 2370 1044.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Underwriting Auction for sale of Government Securities for ₹25,000 crore on May 16, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Government of India has announced the sale (re-issue) of Government Securities, as detailed below, through auctions to be held on May 16, 2025 (Friday).

    As per the extant scheme of underwriting commitment notified on November 14, 2007, the amounts of Minimum Underwriting Commitment (MUC) and the minimum bidding commitment under Additional Competitive Underwriting (ACU) auction, applicable to each Primary Dealer (PD), are as under:

    (₹ crore)
    Security Notified Amount MUC amount per PD Minimum bidding commitment per PD under ACU auction
    6.79% GS 2031 11,000 262 262
    7.09% GS 2074 14,000 334 334

    The underwriting auction will be conducted through multiple price-based method on May 16, 2025 (Friday). PDs may submit their bids for ACU auction electronically through Core Banking Solution (E-Kuber) System between 09:00 A.M. and 09:30 A.M. on the day of underwriting auction.

    The underwriting commission will be credited to the current account of the respective PDs with RBI on the day of issue of securities.

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/327

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • NSO revamps PLFS from 2025; Monthly labour market estimates to aid real-time policy decisions

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a significant overhaul aimed at improving the frequency and granularity of labour market statistics, the National Statistical Office (NSO), under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), has revamped the design and dissemination strategy of the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), effective January this year. The restructuring will facilitate the release of monthly estimates of key employment indicators at the all-India level, as well as quarterly results for both rural and urban areas—a first for the flagship labour force survey.

    The decision marks a paradigm shift in India’s labour data reporting, which until now provided quarterly urban figures and annual rural-urban estimates. Starting in May, the NSO will publish monthly bulletins featuring Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR), Worker Population Ratio (WPR), and Unemployment Rate (UR) based on the Current Weekly Status (CWS) framework. These will offer real-time insights into labour market conditions and are expected to support more agile policy formulation and economic planning. The first monthly PLFS bulletin, reflecting April data, is scheduled for release in May, while the first quarterly bulletin covering both rural and urban areas (April–June 2025) will be released in August.

    In a further shift, annual PLFS results will now be aligned to the calendar year (January–December), replacing the previous July–June reporting cycle. This adjustment aims to harmonise India’s labour data with international statistical reporting standards, improving global comparability.

    Since its inception in 2017, PLFS has been central to India’s official labour market statistics, producing 25 quarterly bulletins and seven annual reports up to 2024, according to a statement from the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation. The survey was originally designed to deliver quarterly data for urban India and annual data for both rural and urban sectors. The revamped methodology seeks to significantly extend this scope.

    One of the major enhancements lies in the sample size. The revamped PLFS will cover 22,692 First Stage Units (FSUs) annually—up from 12,800 earlier—with 12 households surveyed in each unit, resulting in a total sample of 2,72,304 households per year. This marks a 2.65 times increase from the earlier annual coverage of 1,02,400 households. According to MoSPI, the expanded sample will enable greater statistical precision and improve the reliability of estimates, especially at the state and district levels.

    Further, the revamped sample design is based on a multistage stratified framework, which introduces districts as the basic geographical units (strata) in most regions. This ensures district-level representation and facilitates a nuanced understanding of region-specific labour dynamics. For rural areas, additional stratification based on proximity to urban centres has been incorporated. In urban zones, million-plus cities form distinct strata to account for varied urban labour structures.

    Another critical methodological change is the adoption of a monthly rotational panel. Each selected household will now be visited four times over four months—once for the initial survey and three times for follow-ups. This design supports the creation of continuous, high-frequency data streams. Moreover, MoSPI has revised the PLFS Schedule of Enquiry to reflect these changes, ensuring alignment between data collection and analysis requirements.

    While the revamped design brings considerable benefits, MoSPI has advised caution when comparing data from the revised PLFS (post-January 2025) with older estimates. Due to fundamental changes in sample selection, survey frequency, stratification criteria, and household coverage, direct comparisons with pre-2025 data may not be statistically valid. Details of the changes in sampling methodology and survey instruments are available in the report PLFS: Changes in 2025, accessible via the Ministry’s website.

  • Trump’s ‘palace in the sky’ plane gift concerns some Republicans

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Multiple congressional Republicans raised concerns about President Donald Trump’s desire to accept a $400 million airplane from Qatar, as rival Democrats slammed the plan as an illegal foreign donation and national security threat.

    Trump said on Monday that it would be “stupid” for him to refuse Qatar’s offer of the Boeing 747-8 airplane, which would be used as U.S. “Air Force One,” the jet American presidents travel on when they fly around the globe.

    Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani told CNN on Wednesday that the offer was “a very simple government-to-government deal,” not a personal gift to Trump, and that “of course” it would be withdrawn if the transaction were deemed illegal.

    The aircraft eventually would be donated to Trump’s presidential library foundation and used by him after leaving office.

    “There will be plenty of scrutiny,” Republican Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota told reporters. “There are lots and lots of issues around that, that I think will attract very serious questions.”

    Trump’s interest in the plane became public as he made a high-profile Middle East trip that included an announcement by state carrier Qatar Airways that it would purchase up to 210 widebody jets from Boeing.

    Experts have said it would take years and hundreds of millions of dollars to make the Qatari aircraft, known as a “palace in the sky,” suitable for use as transportation for the U.S. commander in chief, despite backers of the plan saying it would save money.

    Senator Roger Wicker of Mississippi, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said the aircraft would have to be checked for surveillance equipment and receive security upgrades.

    “It would be like the United States moving into the Qatari embassy,” Wicker told Politico. “I’m not sure how quickly the Qatari aircraft can be retooled.”

    The Defense Department is already procuring a replacement for the current, aging Air Force One, with delivery by Boeing BA.N expected within a couple of years.

    DEMOCRATS RESPOND

    Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer vowed to block all of Trump’s nominees to the Justice Department until the agency reports what it knows about the Qatari offer. Three nominees are currently before the Senate.

    “The attorney general must testify before both the House and Senate to explain why gifting Donald Trump a private jet does not violate the emoluments clause (of the U.S. Constitution), which requires congressional approval,” he said in a speech.

    The Democratic National Committee flew a plane dragging a “Qatar-a-Lago” banner near Trump’s Florida Mar-a-Lago home on Wednesday.

    The action angered nearby Trump supporters. “Whoever’s flying that plane can kiss my ass,” said Steven Drew, a visitor from North Carolina. “As far as I know, Trump’s been trying to do everything to make the country as great as he can, and I’m fully on board with that,” he said.

    Schumer, of New York, said he wants answers to whether the Qatari government would pay for modifications needed to protect the president and secure communications.

    If the U.S. government must bear those costs, Schumer said, “why are American taxpayers being asked to spend hundreds of millions of dollars or more on a plane that will only be used for a year or two?”

    A White House spokesperson on Monday said details of the gift were still being arranged. A new commercial 747-8 costs approximately $400 million.

    Ethics experts have listed a range of Trump activities that could point to the president using his office to enrich himself or his family. Schumer mentioned a $TRUMP meme coin, plans for a new Trump hotel in Dubai, and a new golf course in Qatar.

    Republican Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky said that Trump taking the plane would be a mistake.

    “I think it’s not worth the appearance of impropriety,” he told Fox News’ “Jesse Watters Primetime” program. “I wouldn’t take it.”

    –Reuters

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appeal for information on missing woman in Aberdeen (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Police today (May 15) appealed to the public for information on a woman who went missing in Aberdeen.

         Yiu Wai-lam, aged 74, went missing after she left her residence on Chengtu Road yesterday (May 14) morning. Her family then made a report to Police.

         She is about 1.5 metres tall, 70 kilograms in weight and of fat build. She has a round face with yellow complexion and short black hair. She was last seen wearing a white shirt with black stripe pattern, dark-coloured trousers, dark blue shoes and carrying a blue shopping bag and a long umbrella. Her right ear is fitted with a hearing aid.

         Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing woman or may have seen her is urged to contact the Regional Missing Persons Unit of Hong Kong Island on 2860 1040 or 9886 0034 or email to rmpu-hki@police.gov.hk, or contact any police station.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: WTW appoints Luke Ware as Head of Asia to accelerate regional growth

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, May 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Leading global advisory, broking and solutions company, WTW (NASDAQ: WTW) today announced the appointment of Luke Ware as Head of Asia, in addition to his current position as Head of Corporate Risk & Broking, Asia, effective immediately.

    In his new dual capacity, Luke will work closely with all WTW business leaders across Risk & Broking and Health, Wealth & Career to drive innovation, advance and deliver WTW solutions, and serve the people, risk and capital needs of the company’s clients in Asia. Luke brings over 20 years of broking and risk management experience and has worked extensively in the insurance sector across markets in Australia, London and Asia.

    Pamela Thomson-Hall, Head of International at WTW, said: “Luke has played a pivotal role in the growth and success of our Asia region. He has consistently demonstrated strategic vision, strong leadership and a client-first mindset. Luke’s ability to drive performance, while fostering collaboration across teams, makes him ideally suited to accelerate WTW’s growth and enhance the value we bring to our clients and colleagues in Asia.”

    Commenting on his appointment, Luke said, “I’m honoured to take on this expanded role and excited about the opportunity to work even more closely with our talented colleagues across all our businesses in Asia. We are focused on accelerating our presence in the region to achieve the best outcomes for our clients. In today’s complex and volatile environment, this requires a thorough understanding of our clients’ needs. With the breadth of our solutions, I believe we can help our clients transform their tomorrows into actionable opportunities and business success.”

    Based in Singapore, Luke will continue to report to Pamela Thomson-Hall.

    About WTW

    At WTW (NASDAQ: WTW), we provide data-driven, insight-led solutions in the areas of people, risk and capital. Leveraging the global view and local expertise of our colleagues serving 140 countries and markets, we help organizations sharpen their strategy, enhance organizational resilience, motivate their workforce and maximize performance.

    Working shoulder to shoulder with our clients, we uncover opportunities for sustainable success—and provide perspective that moves you. Learn more at wtwco.com.

    Media contact

    Clara Goh: +65 6958 2542
    clara.goh@wtwco.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Africa – 2025 Civil Society Forum: African Development Bank and Civil Society Reaffirm Alliance for Africa’s Transformation

    SOURCE: African Development Bank Group (AfDB)

    The forum provided an opportunity for the Bank to present its Civil Society Engagement Action Plan (2024–2028), reaffirming its commitment to an inclusive and participatory development process

    ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast, May 14, 2025/ — The African Development Bank www.AfDB.org has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to collaborating with African civil society to advance the continent’s development agenda. This was a key message of the 2025 Civil Society Organizations (CSO) Forum, which was successfully held on Thursday, May 8, 2025, in Abidjan.

    The forum, organized under the theme: “Celebrating the Contribution of Civil Society to Africa’s Development,” brought together over 150 participants at the Bank’s headquarters, with thousands more connected online across Africa and the diaspora.

    A Novel Action Plan to Deepen Engagement

    This edition of the CSO Forum marked a pivotal step in reinforcing a solid, transformative, and trust-based partnership between the African Development Bank and civil society organizations. This enduring alliance is essential for collectively serving African populations and achieving impactful development across the continent.

    The forum provided an opportunity for the Bank to present its Civil Society Engagement Action Plan (2024–2028), reaffirming its commitment to an inclusive and participatory development process.

    Zeneb Touré, Manager of the Civil Society and Community Engagement Division, presented the strategic framework to Beth Dunford, the African Development Bank Group’s Vice-President for Agriculture, Human, and Social Development, who accepted it on behalf of the institution’s President, Akinwumi Adesina.

    Demonstrating the Bank’s commitment to a diverse and inclusive partnership, Dunford shared the Action Plan with representatives of key civil society components: the Bank-Civil Society Committee, the Climate and Energy Coalition, and a continental network of women entrepreneurs’ associations.

    Augustine Njamnshi, a prominent voice in the civil society climate and energy movement, welcomed its adoption: “The approval of this Action Plan marks a historic turning point in our collaboration with the African Development Bank Group. Born from a shared vision, this document becomes our collective legacy. We express our sincere gratitude to the Bank for this profound act of trust.”

    Highlighting the essential role of civil society as an integral part of Africa’s progress, Kolyang Palebele, representative of the Platform of Farmers’ Organizations of Africa, expressed the spirit of collaboration, praising “the Bank’s unique power to unite the continent’s driving forces around a common vision of improving the lives of African people.” “Civil society is not on the margins of development dynamics; it is the very essence, its living memory and its engine for change,” Mr. Palebele stated.

    “Over the years, civil society engagement has become a cornerstone of the African Development Bank’s work. What was once an aspiration has become evolved into a structured, institutionalized, and results-oriented collaboration partnership.” Ms. Dunford emphasized.

    Empowering Communities Through Decentralized Engagement

    During the forum, an important session highlighted the progress made in decentralizing the Bank’s engagement with civil society. Successful experiences from the five regions of Africa were presented. This localized approach was strongly commended by the Vice-President for Regional Development, Integration and Service Delivery, Nnenna Nwabufo, who appreciated a transformative cross-border initiative between the Central African Republic and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The project has provided over 2.4 million people with access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene, while strengthening community resilience and fostering cooperation.

    Fostering Mutual Accountability Through Open Dialogue

    The forum culminated in an unprecedented and frank dialogue between senior representatives from seven strategic departments of the Bank and leaders of civil society organizations. Discussions focused on crucial areas such as access to information, environmental and social safeguards, climate action, agriculture, gender equality, youth empowerment, and grievance mechanisms. This essential interaction highlighted a shared commitment to transparency, responsiveness, and mutual accountability in the pursuit of sustainable development outcomes.

    About the African Development Bank Group:
    The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOEA Minister Kuo attends SelectUSA Investment Summit, visits Texas

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Minister of Economic Affairs Jyh-Huei Kuo departed for the United States on May 10 to attend the SelectUSA Investment Summit hosted by the U.S. Department of Commerce in Washington, D.C. Following his participation in related events in Washington, he will travel to Texas to promote bilateral trade and investment cooperation with the state.

    According to the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Minister Kuo will engage with key U.S. business associations and enterprises to explore ways to deepen Taiwan-U.S. supply chain partnerships. He will also participate in various activities at the SelectUSA Summit, leveraging his extensive experience in industry to explore opportunities for enhanced collaboration with U.S. counterparts, particularly in the “Five Trusted Industry Sectors.”

    Last July, Minister Kuo signed the Taiwan-Texas Economic Development Statement of Intent (EDSI) with Texas Governor Greg Abbott. In line with President Lai’s new economic and trade strategy — “Rooted in Taiwan, Expanding Globally, Strengthening Economic Ties with the U.S., Marketed to the World” — Minister Kuo will visit Texas to further promote investment and supply chain partnerships.

    While in Texas, Minister Kuo will attend the completion ceremony of GlobalWafers’ new fab on May 15. He will also assess the local investment environment, meet with key government officials and business leaders, and host business forums with Taiwanese businesses operating in the area. These engagements aim to better understand the challenges they face, relay timely feedback to the Texas government, as well as propose cooperation initiatives to strengthen Taiwan-Texas economic ties.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Indian forces launch Operation Nader against terrorists in Tral, heavy firing exchanged

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Security forces on Thursday launched a joint anti-terror operation in the Nader area of Tral, Awantipora, based on special intelligence input. The Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and CRPF were involved in the operation

    The Indian Army’s Chinar Corps confirmed the operation in a post on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter). “On 15 May 2025, based on specific intelligence input from an agency, a Cordon & Search Operation was launched at Nader, Tral, Awantipora. Upon being challenged, terrorists opened heavy fire. A fierce gunfight ensued. The operation is in progress.”

    On Tuesday, three terrorists — including a local commander of Lashkar-e-Taiba and its proxy outfit The Resistance Front (LeT/TRF) — were killed in an encounter in Shopian. The operation, carried out by the Army along with J&K Police and the CRPF, led to the recovery of AK-series rifles, grenades, and a large cache of ammunition.

    The Indian Army’s Additional Directorate General of Public Information also confirmed the Shopian encounter, saying that it was launched based on inputs about terrorist presence in Keller Forest.

    India’s ongoing operations build on the success of Operation Sindoor, which involved precise strikes that destroyed terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Over 100 terror operatives were neutralized at key locations, including Bahawalpur, the stronghold of Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Muridke, a prominent training site for Lashkar-e-Taiba.

    (ANI)