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Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why spring 2025 is so dry

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jack Marley, Environment + Energy Editor, UK edition

    April showers bring May flowers according to an old English saying.

    This phrase, which might have originated in a verse written by poet Thomas Tusser in 1557, harks back to a time when most people depended on rough rules that were borne of practical experience to know when to plant crops. “Such weather lore was the only forecast available”, says meteorologist Rob Thompson at the University of Reading.



    Read more:
    ‘April showers’ – a rainfall scientist explains what they are and why they are becoming more intense

    UK farmers waited in vain for showers this April. The unusually dry month gave lie to the centuries-old expression, which hints at a climate that was generally more obedient to familiar rhythms. The heating of Earth’s atmosphere and ocean, predominantly caused by the mass burning of fossil fuels, has changed that. What we can expect in each season is no longer so assured.

    So, how do we keep our bearings on a warming planet?

    This roundup of The Conversation’s climate coverage comes from our award-winning weekly climate action newsletter. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed.

    Forecasting chaos

    Forecasters have an enormous challenge in predicting how the weather in each season will change, and in communicating the role of climate change.

    “Overall, we can be confident that climate change is bringing warmer conditions in all seasons,” say atmospheric scientists Simon H. Lee and Matthew Patterson at the University of St Andrews. Europe in particular has been a hotspot for warming, with temperatures rising at roughly double the global average.

    Patterson suspects that this has already warped our perceptions of what a “normal” season feels like. When a month arrives with temperatures closer to the long-term average for instance, like June 2024, people tend to experience it as unusually cold.



    Read more:
    Average months now feel cold thanks to climate change

    “Scientists also have strong evidence to suggest that drought conditions will become more common,” Lee and Patterson continue.

    The UK has had roughly half the rainfall it would usually expect for March and April, and spring 2025 is on track to be the country’s driest on record. Some of the latest research on Earth’s water cycle predicts that these dry bouts will get drier, while wet ones will get wetter, and that the switch from drought to deluge will be more sudden (“weather whiplash”, as some have called it).



    Read more:
    Landmark new research shows how global warming is messing with our rainfall

    This doesn’t fully explain the UK’s record-warm and dry spring, however. There are also “weather blocks” to factor in.

    “A blocking event is a disruption to the usual weather patterns of Earth’s middle latitudes,” explains Tim Woollings, a professor in physical climate science at the University of Oxford. In this part of the world it’s the jet stream, a river of air high in the atmosphere, that typically sets the agenda by driving transient weather over the British Isles from the Atlantic.

    Since the beginning of March, a zone of high pressure has rested above the UK and blocked the jet stream like a boulder in a river, Lee and Patterson say. The weather has effectively remained “stuck”. This phenomenon is responsible for a lot of extreme weather in the middle latitudes, as blocks prevent relief from heatwaves or cold snaps, Woollings adds.



    Read more:
    How weather ‘blocks’ have triggered more extreme heatwaves and floods across Europe

    There isn’t conclusive evidence to suggest these blocks are becoming more common as the climate warms according to Lee and Patterson. But one thing is clear: the climate is incredibly complex – and our continuing intervention in it is reckless.

    High-temperature haiku

    Seasons are our living world’s accommodation of the variation in day length, temperature and weather during the year.

    What we perceive as seasonal features, like the shedding of leaves, the arrival and departure of migratory animals, are the adaptations species have made to the average set of conditions that have remained within a particular range for several thousands of years.

    Changes in Earth’s orbit and spin axis gradually influenced the climate and seasons over millennia. More recently, fossil fuel burning has been the dominant influence.

    “As such, humanity is currently on the path to compressing millions of years of temperature change into just a couple of centuries,” say ancient climate experts Dan Lunt (University of Bristol) and Darrell Kaufman (Northern Arizona University).

    The seasonal signals we once thought of as immutable are changing to match these changing conditions. It’s too much, too fast for most species to deal with – including our own.



    Read more:
    Humanity is compressing millions of years of natural change into just a few centuries

    To reorient around a rapidly changing climate, we could do as Tusser did six centuries ago, and write poetry.

    Haiku is perhaps our most useful cultural barometer of climate change. These poems, which originated in 17th-century Japan, comprise three short lines and usually include a reference to the season in which they were composed.

    “A successful haiku could be described as a half-finished poem,” say lecturer in publishing Jasmin Kirkbride (University of East Anglia) and creative writing PhD candidate Paul Chambers (University of Bristol). The listener must complete the scene in their head by linking it with an intense moment of perception from their own life, in which “the vast is perceived in one thing”.



    Read more:
    Haiku has captured the essence of seasons for centuries – new poems contain a trace of climate change

    As seasons have shifted, so have their markers in haiku. Snowdrops, once a feature of February haiku, now appear close to Christmas. The language used to describe certain species has altered too, the pair say, to become “soaked in grief”. Butterflies that once formed “clouds” in earlier haiku, for example, are now “lone survivors… pushing against time”.

    Kirkbride and Chambers urge a new generation of poets to continue recording these changes in haiku: “The vast climate crisis is upon us, and we should write about it.”

    – ref. Why spring 2025 is so dry – https://theconversation.com/why-spring-2025-is-so-dry-256709

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Merkley, Sanders, Dingell Team Up to Introduce Bill to Lower Prescription Drug Prices for All Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today joined Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) in introducing the End Price Gouging for Medications Act.
    The bicameral bill would lower prescription drug costs for all Americans and end pharmaceutical price gouging by requiring drug companies to offer medications in the United States at no more than the lowest price per drug in twelve other similarly developed countries—Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
    “No one should ever be forced to choose between paying for the prescriptions they need or putting food on the table. It’s unacceptable, and for too many Americans it’s a reality because of Big Pharma’s price gouging,” said Welch. “The End Price Gouging for Medications Act would put an end to this bad practice and help more Vermonters access the medications they need. I’m proud to join Sen. Merkley to introduce this bill and help Vermonters get the care they need.”
    “Americans pay the highest prices in the world for prescription drugs, even though we invest the most in cutting-edge research and development. That is unconscionable,” said Merkley. “In my town halls across every corner of Oregon, I’ve heard time and again from Oregonians about how sky-high prescription drug prices are pushing their budgets to the limit. The End Price Gouging for Medications Act will crack down on Big Pharma’s greed.”
    Merkley continued, “If President Trump is serious about lowering prescription drug costs for families and seniors across America, he should work with Congress to ensure we get the best prices, not the worst.”
    “In the wealthiest nation on earth, no one should have to choose between buying groceries and affording the medications they need to survive,” said Dingell. “There’s no reason we should be spending more on prescriptions than any other country. This legislation will help to bring down the cost of prescription drugs, hold drug companies accountable for their unchecked greed, and provide much-needed relief to American families.”
    On average, Americans spend over $1,400 on prescription drugs every year—the highest per capita drug spending in the world—largely because the pharmaceutical industry is hiking up the cost of drugs to make billions in profits each year. The American people want action, and lowering prescription drug prices to levels obtained in nations similar to the United States has strong bipartisan support. This includes medication such as:
    Ozempic, which costs Americans nearly $13,000 annually to treat type 2 diabetes compared to roughly $820 in Japan; and
    Humira, which costs Americans with Crohn’s disease more than $100,000 per year compared to roughly $3,320 per year in Austria.
    Unlike Trump’s recent executive order (EO) on international reference pricing, which only applies to Medicare and Medicaid, the End Price Gouging for Medications Act goes further by requiring drug companies to offer prescription drugs at the established reference price to all individuals in the U.S. market, regardless of insurance or health care status. That includes individuals utilizing all federal health programs, uninsured individuals, individuals covered under a group health plan, or individuals who have purchased their own health insurance coverage.
    In addition to Welch, Merkley, Sanders, and Dingell, the End Price Gouging for Medications Act is co-sponsored by U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL). The bicameral bill is endorsed by Public Citizen, Center for Health and Democracy, Just Care USA, Center for Medicare Advocacy, and Social Security Works.
    “American consumers pay far too much for drugs, not because it is costly to manufacture them, or even because of the expense of research and development. We pay too much because the U.S. government grants patents and other monopolies to brand-name drug corporations and then does far too little to rein in Big Pharma’s exploitation of those monopolies to price gouge consumers and the government itself. If President Trump were serious about bringing U.S. drug prices down to levels in other countries, he would embrace this legislation and use the bully pulpit to urge legislators to support it instead of retrograde proposals to take away health care from millions of people to give tax cuts to billionaires and corporations. We applaud Senators Merkley, Sanders and Welch for their leadership,” said Peter Maybarduk, Director of Public Citizen’s Access to Medicines Program.
    “There’s no good reason Americans should be forced to pay as much as four times more for our drugs than people in France, Japan and Canada. Senator Merkley, Senator Welch, Ranking Member Sanders, and Representative Dingell’s ‘End Price Gouging for Medications Act’ legislation recognizes that monopoly pricing by drug corporations is killing tens of thousands of Americans each year and driving countless more into medical debt. It rightly calls for fair drug pricing, which is essential to our health and well-being,” said Diane Archer, President of Just Care USA.
    “The reason Americans pay higher prescription drug prices than other countries is because big drug and insurance companies, and their armies of lobbyists, work overtime to ensure their monopolies are protected and their CEOs continue to get massive compensation packages. It is far past time that Congress acts to rein in the out-of-control cost of what Americans have to pay for life-saving medications. The End Price Gouging for Medications Act is an important step,” said Wendell Potter, President of the Center for Health and Democracy.
    Full text of the End Price Gouging for Medications Act can be found by clicking here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister of Finance to Co-Host G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting in Banff

    Source: Government of Canada News

    May 14, 2025

    As part of Canada’s G7 Presidency, the Minister of Finance and National Revenue, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, and Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem, will co-host the G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting in Banff, Alberta, from May 20 to 22. They will be joined by Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors from the G7 countries (France, Germany, Italy, Japan, United Kingdom, United States) and the European Union.

    G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors will be joined by the heads of the International Monetary Fund, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, the World Bank and the Financial Stability Board. The Ukraine Finance Minister and the President of the Financial Action Task Force will join for parts of the meeting. Ministers and Governors will discuss and share views on current global economic and financial challenges, with a focus on how the G7 can work together on issues.   

    The details of the media events and core programming are described below.

    Please note that media events are restricted to accredited media, and the accreditation portal is now closed. Additional logistical details for each media event will be provided directly to accredited media, closer to the events. Please contact mediag7@fin.gc.ca with any questions.   

    Core Program (All Times Local, MT)

    Tuesday, May 20

    4:00 p.m.

    The Minister and the Ukraine Minister of Finance, Sergii Marchenko, will answer questions from the media.

    Wednesday, May 21

    8:15 a.m. – 8:45 a.m.

    The Minister will join fellow G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors for a group photograph and hold a welcoming ceremony.

    Open to media. Photo opportunity only.

    9:00 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.

    The Minister and Governor will officially open the G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting.

    Pooled B-roll media opportunity.

    9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

    The Minister and Governor will co-chair sessions on the global economy, economic resilience and security, and the situation in Ukraine, among others.

    Closed to media.

    Thursday, May 22

    8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

    The Minister and Governor will co-chair sessions on financial crime and artificial intelligence, among others.

    Closed to media.

    12:30 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

    The Minister and Governor will hold a joint press conference to close the G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting.

    Open to media. A media availability will follow. Watch live on X at https://x.com/G7 or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/G7.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Joins Push Urging the Trump Administration to Drop its Anti-Voter Policies that will Disenfranchise Tribal Communities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) joined Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and 10 of her Senate colleagues in sounding the alarm on the devastating impacts of President Trump’s anti-voter “election integrity” executive order and the SAVE Act on Native American voting rights.

    “Enactment of new voter registration policies under the Executive Order and the SAVE Act would lead to mass disenfranchisement of eligible Native voters and further depress the Native vote,” wrote the Senators. “Tribal IDs generally lack place of birth information required by the legislation, and the vast majority of these IDs lack the specific U.S. citizenship documentation required by the Executive Order. And the SAVE Act’s in-person requirement would exacerbate existing barriers, such as requiring IDs that list residential mailing addresses, by forcing many Native voters to travel great distances, including costly flights or multi-hour drives, to reach their local elections office or polling place.”

    “As Secretary of the Interior, you have a special moral and legal responsibility to uphold our nation’s trust and treaty obligations,” continued the Senators. “If implemented, the sweeping federal mandates included in the Executive Order and the SAVE Act would disenfranchise eligible Native voters who are following state laws. We encourage your active engagement with the White House and the Department of Justice to ensure that Native communities are able to exercise the franchise fully and have their voices heard at the ballot box.”

    Tribal IDs are currently an acceptable form of documentation to register to vote in nearly every state, but the SAVE Act and Trump executive order require that an ID must show place of birth and citizenship, which the majority of Tribal IDs lack, adding another barrier to the ballot box for many Native American communities. The Senators underscored that if enacted, these provisions would force Tribal voters who live in rural and remote locations to travel significant distances to prove their citizenship in order to register to vote.

    The Senators also emphasized the disproportionate impact the vote-by-mail restrictions would have on Native communities, which often rely more on mail-in voting because of a lack of infrastructure and transportation access. Trump’s executive order penalizes states that accept absentee or mail-in ballots received after Election Day, harming Native voters in states like Nevada, Alaska, North Dakota, Oregon, and California that process ballots as long as they are postmarked by Election Day.

    Only 66 percent of Native Americans eligible to participate in elections are currently registered to vote, leaving more than 1 million eligible voting-age Native Americans unregistered. Creating further obstacles to register to vote would likely reduce these numbers even further.

    Senator Cortez Masto has long been a champion for Tribal communities. Last year, the Senate passed both her legislation to make it easier for Indian Health Services to recruit and retain doctors and her legislation to strengthen Tribal public safety. She repeatedly called on the Biden administration to do more to address the epidemic of violence against Native women and girls, including securing federal funding to protect Native communities, urging the administration to draft a plan to address this issue, and requesting the Government Accountability Office (GAO) investigate the federal response to this crisis.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • India’s Operation Sindoor draws global support as new front against cross-border terrorism

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In the wake of the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians, India has mounted a decisive and strategic response aimed at dismantling cross-border terrorism. The attack, which drew widespread condemnation and grief across the country, prompted immediate and firm action by the Government of India, with the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approving a range of diplomatic and military measures targeting Pakistan’s continued support for terrorism.
     
    Among the key diplomatic actions taken, India placed the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 in abeyance until Pakistan verifiably ceases its support for cross-border terror activities. The Integrated Check Post at Attari was closed, and Pakistani nationals were barred from entering India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme. Defence, Naval, and Air Advisors posted at the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi were declared persona non grata, while the strength of both High Commissions was halved from 55 to 30 personnel.
     
    As part of a precise military strategy, India launched “Operation Sindoor,” a calibrated campaign designed to neutralize key terror camps across the border. Based on multi-agency intelligence, nine significant terror infrastructure sites, including those in Bahawalpur and Muridke, were identified and targeted through coordinated air and ground strikes. The operation was executed with high operational ethics, focusing exclusively on terrorist camps while taking all precautions to prevent civilian casualties.
     
    Indian strikes successfully eliminated more than 100 terrorists and destroyed 11 air bases within Pakistan. Among those neutralized were high-value individuals linked to the 1999 IC-814 hijacking and the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, including Yusuf Azhar, Abdul Malik Rauf, and Mudassir Ahmad.
     
    The strikes marked a shift in India’s strategy by targeting deep into Pakistani territory, including critical radar installations in Lahore and Gurjanwala. Additionally, coordinated missile attacks were carried out on terror hubs in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), including Muzaffarabad and Kotli. Military bases housing Pakistan’s F-16 and JF-17 fighter jets at Sargodha and Bholari were hit, leading to the destruction of nearly 20 percent of Pakistan’s air force infrastructure.
     
    India’s retaliatory operations were launched in response to not only the Pahalgam attack but also subsequent Pakistani provocations, including drone and missile attacks on Indian civilian and religious areas on the nights of May 7, 8, and 9. Indian forces successfully intercepted and neutralized these threats, reinforcing the country’s operational readiness and commitment to defending its sovereignty.
     
    In a televised address on May 12, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the resolve behind Operation Sindoor, calling it not just a military campaign but a reflection of the collective sentiment of the Indian people. He reiterated that terrorism would be met with decisive force, rejecting any possibility of dialogue or trade with Pakistan until terrorism is addressed. He stated unequivocally that water and blood cannot flow together and emphasized that the only issue India is willing to discuss is the return of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
     
    As Pakistani forces continued mortar shelling across the Line of Control (LoC), India responded forcefully, targeting terrorist bunkers and Pakistani army positions. Unable to withstand the Indian response, Pakistan sought a ceasefire, with its Director General of Military Operations contacting his Indian counterpart. A ceasefire was declared on May 10, but Pakistan violated it soon after, sending drones into Indian territory, which were swiftly countered by Indian forces.
     
    Despite the ceasefire at the borders, Operation Sindoor remains ongoing. The Indian Armed Forces remain on high alert to counter any future threats, with field commanders granted operational freedom to respond to provocations.
     
    India’s robust and restrained response has garnered wide support from the international community. World powers have condemned the Pahalgam attack and endorsed India’s right to self-defense. The United Kingdom, Russia, Israel, the United States, France, Japan, and key Gulf countries including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar expressed solidarity with India. European Union member states, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Panama, and even Palestine joined the chorus of condemnation.
     
    Each expressed their support for India’s fight against terrorism, with many recognizing Operation Sindoor as a legitimate and proportionate response. Iran’s President personally conveyed condolences to Prime Minister Modi, and global leaders have emphasized the need for stronger international cooperation to combat terrorism.

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, McClain, Delaney, Moylan Introduce Legislation to Expand Leave Benefits for Military Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    May 12, 2025
    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of both the U.S. Senate Armed Services (SASC) and Veterans’ Affairs Committees (SVAC)—and U.S. Representatives April McClain Delaney (D-MD-06) and James Moylan (R-GU-AL) introduced legislation to modernize the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) in order to help ensure that military caregiver benefits are available to more people who selflessly care for their servicemember or Veteran family member in medical need. The Making it Likely for Families of the Military to Live with Leave Access (MIL FMLA) Act would expand FMLA leave benefits for military family members who aren’t currently covered under the FMLA.
    “It’s long overdue that Congress expands leave benefits for the selfless Americans who care for their servicemember or Veteran loved ones—who often have complex and unique medical needs as a result of their service,” said Senator Duckworth. “No servicemember should ever have to worry whether they and their loved ones will have the benefits needed to care for them after their service—it hurts our military readiness and recruiting. Supporting caregivers isn’t just about doing something humanitarian. It’s about the safety and security of our nation.”
    “Over 14 million Americans care for injured servicemembers and veterans, yet current law leaves too many behind,” said Congresswoman McClain Delaney. “The bipartisan MIL FMLA Act, which I’m proud to lead with Congressman Moylan, ensures all military caregivers—including domestic partners and extended family—can access the leave they deserve, without arbitrary restrictions. This bill is a step toward truly honoring the service and sacrifice of those who care for our nation’s heroes.”
    “I am proud to co-lead the bipartisan MIL FMLA Act with Rep. McClain Delaney, which will address inequities that our veterans, servicemembers, and their families face every day,” said Congressman Moylan. “As the representative of the district with the highest level of enlistments per capita, and as a veteran myself, this bill addresses the countless underlying issues that affect our ability and willingness to serve. I look forward to working with Rep. McClain Delaney to deliver for those in our country who have served and currently serve our country.”
    The MIL FMLA Act would address the gaps in FMLA that have left many military caregivers without adequate leave access by:
    Adding reserve components and domestic deployments as covered active duty for family members;
    Eliminating the requirement that military caregiver protections only apply to Veterans who served within the last five years;
    Allowing military caregivers to utilize special military caregiver FMLA leave more than once;
    Expanding military caregiver provisions to cover domestic partners and other close family members like aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, grandparents, grandchildren and other loved ones; and
    Creating a new form of leave, specifically for Veterans who need extended time to address serious injuries or illnesses related to their service.
    Along with Duckworth, the legislation is cosponsored in the Senate by U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).
    Along with McClain Delaney and Moylan, the legislation is cosponsored in the House by U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (R-NE-02), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13), André Carson (D-IN-07), Troy Carter (D-LA-02), Gil Cisneros (D-CA-31), Cleo Fields (D-LA-06), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-05), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06), Steny Hoyer (D-MD-05), Greg Landsman (D-OH-01), Summer Lee (D-PA-12), Sam Liccardo (D-CA-16), Sarah McBride (D-DE-AL), Joe Neguse (D-CO-02), Johnny Olszewksi (D-MD-02), Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01), Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08), Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13) and Rasihda Tlaib (D-MI-12).
    The legislation is endorsed by the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, National Military Family Association, American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, Center for American Progress (CAP), Service Women’s Action Network (SWAN), Caregiver Action Network, National Partnership for Women & Families, VoteVets, Caring Across Generations, Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), MomsRising, Family Values @ Work, Common Defense, A Better Balance, Truman National Security Project, Secure Families Initiative and Agency for Community EmPOWERment (ACE) of NEPA.
    “The Making It Likely for Families of the Military to Live with Leave Access Act is a crucial step forward in helping those who make countless sacrifices for their country,” said Molly Weston Williamson, Senior Fellow at the Center for American Progress. “Service members, veterans, and their loved ones deserve the time they need to respond to the effects of service. No one should have to risk their job in order to ensure they or their family can get the care they need or to address the impacts of deployment.”
    Full text of the legislation is available on Senator Duckworth’s website.
    Duckworth has long been a leader in pushing for better benefits and support for members of the armed and uniformed services and their family members. In April, she introduced legislation that would help expand leave benefits for the millions of devoted health professionals serving in the U.S. Public Health Service (PHS) Commissioned Corps. Last year, she helped secure $2.9 billion to support family caregivers of disabled Veterans and $2.4 billion to expand benefits and services for military and Veteran caregivers to include health care and mental health services, among other things. Last month, she renewed her push to ensure IVF treatment costs are covered on servicemembers’ and military families’ health care plans. Last December, Duckworth helped pass the bipartisan Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that gave servicemembers a pay raise and included a Duckworth-led provision to improve access to high-quality medical care for servicemembers and their families in the Indo-Pacific region, among other wins for military families.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Akash Missile, IACCS and Drones drive India’s defence success in Operation SINDOOR

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Operation SINDOOR has emerged as a major milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in national security, demonstrating the country’s growing technological and operational capabilities in countering asymmetric warfare. In the wake of the terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam in April, the Indian Armed Forces responded with precision and strategic restraint, targeting terrorist infrastructure without crossing the Line of Control or international boundaries. 
     
    On the night of 7–8 May 2025, multiple attempts were made by Pakistan to target military installations across Northern and Western India—including Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bhatinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai, and Bhuj—using drones and missiles. These threats were effectively neutralised by India’s Integrated Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Grid and Air Defence mechanisms. The network of radars, control centres, low-level air defence guns, and both ground- and aircraft-launched missiles provided a coordinated and impenetrable shield, ensuring minimal damage.
     
    In retaliation, on the morning of May 8, Indian forces targeted and disabled several Pakistani air defence systems, including a radar site in Lahore. This marked a significant operational success, achieved without loss of Indian assets. Indigenous systems, particularly the Akash Surface-to-Air Missile system, played a crucial role in neutralising threats. Designed to protect strategic locations from aerial attacks, the Akash system operated effectively in both autonomous and group modes, with the ability to simultaneously engage multiple targets. The system, fully mounted on mobile platforms, includes advanced electronic counter-countermeasure capabilities.
     
    The Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) of the Indian Air Force provided the backbone for real-time coordination, enabling synchronized responses across multiple units of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Offensive operations also saw the effective deployment of loitering munitions, also known as “suicide drones,” to target high-value Pakistani assets, including airbases at Noor Khan and Rahimyar Khan. These precision strikes were completed within 23 minutes, highlighting the efficacy of India’s surveillance, planning, and jamming technologies, which successfully bypassed Chinese-origin Pakistani air defence systems.
     
    Following the operation, Indian forces recovered debris from neutralised threats, including Chinese-origin PL-15 missiles, Turkish-origin UAVs, long-range rockets, quadcopters, and commercial drones, showcasing India’s ability to counter advanced foreign-supplied weaponry with indigenous air defence and electronic warfare systems.
     
    In a press briefing on May 12, Director General of Military Operations, Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai, outlined the layered defence architecture deployed during the operation. He noted that while strikes were carried out within Indian territory, Pakistan’s retaliatory response was anticipated. A combination of counter-UAS systems, shoulder-fired weapons, legacy air defence systems, and modern platforms was used to protect strategic and logistic assets. This multi-tiered approach ensured civilian and military infrastructure remained secure during attempted air incursions by Pakistan on the night of May 9–10.
     
    India’s satellite capabilities also played a key role in the operation. On May 11, ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan stated that at least ten satellites were deployed round-the-clock to support strategic operations and national security. These systems provided constant monitoring of India’s 7,000-km coastline and its northern borders.
     
    The success of Operation SINDOOR also reflects the growing strength of India’s drone ecosystem. The Drone Federation of India (DFI), representing over 550 companies and 5,500 drone pilots, has played a key role in promoting indigenous development, manufacturing, and deployment of drone and counter-drone technologies. Indian companies such as Alpha Design Technologies, Tata Advanced Systems, Paras Defence & Space Technologies, and IG Drones are at the forefront of defence-focused drone innovation.
     
    The Indian drone market is expected to grow to $11 billion by 2030, representing over 12 percent of the global share. This growth has been supported by policy reforms, including the 2021 ban on imported drones and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for drone and component manufacturing. The PLI scheme, with an outlay of ₹120 crore across three financial years, has accelerated domestic R&D and industrial output.
     
    India’s broader defence manufacturing sector continues to expand under the Make in India initiative. In financial year 2023–24, indigenous defence production reached a record ₹1.27 lakh crore, while exports soared to ₹23,622 crore in 2024–25—a 34-fold increase since 2013–14. Strategic reforms and robust private-sector participation have led to the development of advanced platforms such as the Dhanush and ATAGS artillery systems, Arjun tanks, Light Specialist Vehicles, LCA Tejas, ALH, LUH, Akash missile systems, and various naval assets including indigenous aircraft carriers and submarines.
     
    The government has also implemented initiatives such as iDEX, SRIJAN, and established Defence Industrial Corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu to encourage innovation and facilitate production. Major acquisitions including the Prachand Light Combat Helicopters and the ATAGS artillery system reflect India’s commitment to indigenisation.
     
    With defence exports surpassing ₹24,000 crore in FY 2024–25, the government now aims to reach ₹50,000 crore by 2029. India continues to work towards becoming a global defence export leader by 2047, supported by record procurement contracts and ongoing investment in innovation.

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Smoking products ban justified

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Tobacco companies have been adding such flavours such as menthol, fruit and confectionaries into conventional smoking products to disguise the harshness of tobacco smoke, making it easier for non-smokers to initiate and maintain a bsmoking habit, the Health Bureau pointed out today.

    The statement was made in response to media enquiries regarding the rationale behind the bureau’s proposal to ban flavoured conventional smoking products under a new phase of tobacco control measures.

    Research also showed that banning flavoured conventional cigarettes can reduce the chances of young people using tobacco, the bureau added.

    The bureau had already stated in the Consultation Document on Tobacco Control Strategies in 2023 as well as subsequent Legislative Council documents that around 50 countries and regions worldwide, including 27 European Union member states, Canada and the UK have banned the sale of flavoured cigarettes. Additionally, China’s Taiwan region announced last year the prohibition of the use of specified flavour additives in tobacco products.

    Stressing that banning flavoured conventional smoking products is neither unique to Hong Kong nor “over the top”, the bureau said Hong Kong needs to align itself with international tobacco control policies through legislative work.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Young Kim Delivers Opening Statement at East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee Hearing

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-40), chairwoman of the House Foreign Affairs East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee, delivered an opening statement at today’s hearing titled, “National Economic Security: Advancing U.S. Interests Abroad.”  

    Watch her remarks HERE or read her opening statement below. 

    Good morning and welcome to the East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee’s hearing on “National Economic Security: Advancing U.S. Interests Abroad.”  

    In 2019, Ambassador William Burns, one of our most decorated diplomats and the former CIA Director, described the Department of State as “adrift.”  

    Over the years, the Department has had trouble finding its purpose as functions and authorities have been stripped away or absorbed by the National Security Council, Department of Defense, and even agencies traditionally focused on domestic issues.  

    For more than 170 years, economic statecraft was led by the Department of State. This changed in 1961 when President Kennedy sought to expand the administrative state, pulling functions and authorities out of the Department to create new agencies and organizations, including the United States Trade Representative which would be responsible for conducting all U.S. trade and investment diplomacy.   

    The justification for pulling these trade and investment functions out of the Department was to improve the Government’s capacity to prioritize and support U.S. businesses, strengthen the export performance of U.S. industry, and assure fair international trade practices.  

    However, it has effectively split our economic interests from our diplomatic priorities, which has resulted in several challenges:  

    First, it has not helped increase the ability of U.S. businesses to access foreign markets.   

    In practice, the Foreign Commercial Service (F-C-S) and Foreign Agricultural Service (F-A-S) officers are few in number and often positioned at U.S. embassies without alignment to our foreign policy priorities.    

    When I travel abroad, I routinely meet with FCS personnel who explain that they spend most of their time engaged in trade shows and organizing events with minimal direct work on increasing and securing market access for American businesses.   

    Because they are siloed off from our diplomatic efforts of the Department of State, they’re restricted in leveraging the other tools in our diplomatic toolkit to assist American companies.   

    Second, the American market has been left susceptible to predatory foreign competition.   

    Our ability to protect American businesses and workers has been severely hampered, leading to calls from across the country for the Executive to act and repatriate entire industries and sectors.  

      

    President Trump, like his predecessors, has repeatedly said that “economic policy IS foreign policy.”   Unfortunately, we have not implemented the structural reforms needed to mobilize that sentiment.    

    Even President Obama asked Congress for the authority to consolidate six agencies with trade and investment functions in 2012; this request was not supported by Congress.  

    Bipartisan administrations have independently come to the same conclusion: the current alignment of functions and agencies charged with leading our economic statecraft effort is in need of structural reform.  

    I agree that “economic security is national security”, and the key question we will be asking today is: what structural reforms are necessary to reflect this prioritization?   

    We intend to answer that question in the Committee’s first comprehensive State Authorization legislation in more than 20 years.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Amit Shah lauds security forces for eliminating 31 Maoists

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a major breakthrough in the country’s fight against Maoist insurgency, security forces have eliminated 31 Naxalites in what has been termed the biggest-ever anti-Naxal operation in India. The 21-day-long joint operation was carried out at Karreguttalu Hill (KGH), situated along the Chhattisgarh-Telangana border—a region long considered a formidable stronghold of Naxal activity.
     
    Union Home Minister Amit Shah lauded the security forces for the historic success. In a post on X, he said the area once ruled by red terror now proudly hoists the Indian tricolour. He informed that KGH was previously the unified headquarters of major Naxal outfits including the PLGA Battalion 1, Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee (DKSZC), Telangana State Committee (TSC), and the Central Regional Committee (CRC). It served as a critical center for Naxal training, strategy formulation, and arms production.
     
    The Home Minister highlighted that the operation, successfully concluded within 21 days, did not result in any casualties among the security personnel. He congratulated the CRPF, Special Task Force (STF), and District Reserve Guard (DRG) personnel for their courage in carrying out the mission under challenging weather and terrain conditions. He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to root out Naxalism under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and reiterated that India is on track to become Naxal-free by March 31, 2026.
     
    Senior officials, including CRPF Director General Gyanendra Pratap Singh, Chhattisgarh Director General of Police Arun Dev Gautam, and Additional Director General (Anti-Naxal Operations) also briefed the media in Bijapur on the operation’s details. According to officials, 31 uniformed Naxalites—including 16 women—were killed, and 35 weapons were recovered following 21 encounters during the course of the mission. So far, 28 of the deceased have been identified, and a total bounty of ₹1.72 crore had been announced for them.
     
    The operation, which took place between April 21 and May 11, was the result of detailed intelligence gathering and strategic planning. Inputs received from multiple agencies led to the formation of a multi-agency team tasked with collecting and analyzing technical and human intelligence. Based on this intelligence, security forces were able to detect Maoist hideouts, locate arms caches, and recover a large cache of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), BGL shells, and other materials. Officials stated that the use of real-time information helped prevent multiple IED-related casualties.
     
    Karreguttalu Hill, a vast and difficult terrain measuring around 60 kilometers in length and up to 20 kilometers in width, had become a refuge for 300–350 armed Maoist cadres, including members of the PLGA’s technical department and allied units. Over the past two and a half years, the Naxalites had entrenched themselves in the area, prompting a need for a large-scale and carefully executed security response.
     
    During the course of the operation, security forces destroyed 214 hideouts and bunkers and recovered 450 IEDs, 818 BGL shells, 899 bundles of codex wire, detonators, and nearly 12,000 kilograms of food supplies. Additionally, four Naxal technical units engaged in the production of weapons and explosives were dismantled. Authorities believe that several senior Naxal cadres may have been killed or seriously injured, though the difficult terrain has hindered full recovery of all bodies.
     
    Despite daytime temperatures exceeding 45 degrees Celsius and treacherous terrain, the morale of the troops remained high. Eighteen personnel from the CRPF’s elite CoBRA unit, STF, and DRG sustained injuries, mostly due to IED blasts, but all are currently in stable condition and receiving treatment.
     
    The operation also reflects the broader success of the government’s ‘whole-of-government’ approach to combating Maoism, which combines robust security action with focused development initiatives in affected regions. Under the Home Ministry’s Joint Action Plan, new security camps have been established in strategic areas, and several central schemes are being implemented to bring development and governance to previously neglected regions.
     
    According to official data, 197 hardcore Naxalites have been neutralized in the first four months of 2025 alone. The number of most-affected districts has dropped from 35 in 2014 to just 6 in 2025. Naxal-related incidents have significantly declined from 1,080 in 2014 to 374 in 2024. Meanwhile, the number of security personnel killed annually in Maoist violence has decreased from 88 in 2014 to 19 in 2024. In the same period, the number of Naxalites killed in encounters has risen sharply, and the number of surrenders remains high, with 928 surrendering in 2024 and 718 so far in 2025.
     
    Infrastructure in affected areas has also seen considerable enhancement. Since 2019, over 320 security camps have been set up, along with 68 night-landing helipads. The number of fortified police stations has increased from 66 in 2014 to 555 by 2025.

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Middle East visit successful: CE

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Executive John Lee hailed his visit to Kuwait and Qatar as a success having made achievements in six areas.

    At a media session in Kuwait City, Kuwait, today, Mr Lee concluded his four-day visit to the two Middle East countries with a business delegation comprising representatives from Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises.

    “We strengthened relations between the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and the governments of Qatar and Kuwait, establishing a collaborative consensus.

    “The visit resulted in a total of 59 Memoranda of Understanding and agreements, 35 in Qatar and 24 in Kuwait, spanning across diverse areas and laying a robust groundwork for multifaceted co-operation.”

    The Chief Executive also noted that the visit helped leverage Hong Kong’s strengths under the “one country, two systems” principle in connecting the Mainland and the world, deepening international exchanges and co-operation, and demonstrating the synergistic power of the complementary advantages between Hong Kong and the Mainland.

    He added that the trip also further built relations with the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) countries to explore greater business opportunities, deepened mutual understanding and strengthening commercial and trading networks, and further enhanced cultural exchanges with the GCC countries.

    In addition to Qatar’s new 30-day visa-free arrangement for Hong Kong Special Administrative Region passport holders, Mr Lee today announced that the United Arab Emirates will grant Hong Kong 30-day visa-free access starting May 15, while Oman will, on the same date, extend its visa-free period from 10 to 14 days.

    Mr Lee also highlighted that in meetings with leaders and officials in Kuwait and Qatar, he appreciated their forward-looking vision and their understanding of Hong Kong’s unparalleled advantages under “one country, two systems” as a bridge between the Mainland and the world.

    “Middle East countries are seeking diversification of risks and looking for opportunities in China and the Hong Kong SAR in order to join the tide of the global economic shift towards the East. In this, Hong Kong has boundless opportunities.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Los Angeles announces 239 illegal aliens were arrested during recent operation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    LOS ANGELES – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested 239 illegal aliens during a weeklong operation from May 4 to May 10 focused on bolstering public safety in the greater Los Angeles area.

    ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations and interagency partners, identified, detained and removed dangerous criminals throughout Los Angeles and surrounding cities. Criminal aliens in the U.S. illegally should utilize the CBP Home app to self-deport and avoid arrest by ICE.

    Among the criminal aliens arrested during the operation included:

    • Lan Pham, 49, of Vietnam, convicted involuntary manslaughter, assault with a deadly weapon, parole violations, drug violations and more.

    • Manuel Angel Rodriguez Martinez, 40, of El Salvador, accused of aggravated rape of a minor or incapacitated individual in the category of continuing crime in his home country.

    • Jorge Artero Meza-Rodriquez, 52, of Mexico, convicted of vehicle theft, assault with a deadly weapon and illegal reentry to the United States.

    • Sung Park, 52, of Korea, convicted of voluntary manslaughter.

    Several federal law enforcement agencies assisted ICE during the operation including the Drug Enforcement Administration, the FBI, the ATF, and the U.S. Marshals Service, along with state and local law enforcement partners.

    Members of the public can report crime and suspicious activity by calling 866-347-2423 or completing the online tip form. Follow us on X at @ICEgov to learn more about ERO’s missions and operations.

    Learn more about ICE Los Angeles’ mission to increase public safety in your community on X at @EROLosAngeles.

    Download b-roll of an arrest made during the operation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 14 May 2025 Medical product alert Medical Product Alert N°3/2025: Falsified IMFINZI (durvalumab) injection 500mg/10ml

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Alert Summary

    This WHO Medical Product Alert refers to three batches of falsified IMFINZI (durvalumab) injection 500mg/10ml. The falsified products have been detected in the Islamic Republic of Iran and Türkiye. These falsified products were reported to WHO in March 2025.

    WHO previously issued Medical Product Alert N°5/2024 regarding another falsified batch of IMFINZI that was detected in Armenia, Lebanon, and Türkiye.

    IMFINZI is a sterile concentrate for infusion. It contains the active pharmaceutical ingredient durvalumab, which is a monoclonal antibody. As monotherapy, it is indicated for the treatment of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) in adults.

    How to identify these falsified products

    These products are falsified as they deliberately misrepresent their identity, composition, and source. The genuine manufacturer, AstraZeneca, has identified multiple visual discrepancies in the falsified products. AstraZeneca has confirmed that the products mentioned in this alert are indeed falsified.  Check for the following and see the Annex below for more details:

    • Lot BAZR – This is a genuine lot number for distribution only in India. The falsified product shows discrepancies in the packaging artwork and text placement, with some text missing.
    • Lot BBEG – This is a genuine lot number for distribution only in Egypt. The falsified product shows discrepancies in the packaging artwork and text placement, with some text missing. The product price (in Egyptian Pounds) is also missing.
    • Lot AVZT – This lot number is not recognized by the genuine manufacturer. Any IMFINZI product with this lot number is considered falsified.

    Risks

    These falsified products should be considered unsafe, and their use may be life-threatening in some circumstances. The use of these falsified IMFINZI injections may lead to ineffective or delayed treatment. It is important to detect and remove any falsified IMFINZI (durvalumab) injections from circulation to prevent harm to patients.

    Advice to health-care professionals, regulatory authorities and the public

    Health-care professionals should report any incident of adverse effects, lack of expected effects or suspected falsification to the National Regulatory Authorities or National Pharmacovigilance Centre.

    WHO advises increased surveillance and diligence within the supply chains of countries and regions likely to be affected by these falsified products. Increased surveillance of the informal/unregulated market is also advised. National regulatory authorities/health authorities/law enforcement are advised to immediately notify WHO if the falsified product is detected in their country. If you are in possession of any of these products, WHO recommends that you do not use them. If you, or someone you know, has, or may have used these products, or suffered an adverse event or unexpected side-effect after use, seek immediate medical advice from a health-care professional or contact a poisons control centre.

    All medical products must be obtained from authorized/licensed suppliers. If you have any information about the manufacture or supply of these falsified products, please contact WHO via rapidalert@who.int.

    Annex: Products subject to WHO Medical Product Alert N°3 /2025

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: TMD Energy Limited Reports 2024 Full-Year Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TMD Energy Limited (NYSE: TMDE) (the “Company” or “TMDEL”), together with its subsidiaries (the “Group” or “TMDEL Group”) is a Malaysia and Singapore based service provider engaged in integrated bunkering services segment which involves ship-to-ship transfer of marine fuels, ship management services and vessel chartering services, today reported its financial results for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024.

    Fiscal Year 2024 Financial Results Highlights

    • Group Revenue increased by 8.8% to $688.6 million in FY2024 from $633.1 million in FY2023.  Notably, revenue from our Bunkering Services Segment rose by $55.5 million.
    • Despite revenue grew by 8.8%, gross profit surged 32.7% to $16.0 million, with gross margin improving to 2.3% in FY2024 from 1.9% in FY2023.
    • Income from operations increased substantially by more than 130% to $6.0 million in FY2024 from $2.6 million in FY2023.
    • Net income remained stable at $1.9 million in FY2024, compared to $2.0 million for FY2023.

    Dato’ Sri Kam Choy Ho, Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Company commented, “In FY2024, the Company experienced sustainable revenue growth, primarily driven by the success of our Bunkering Services Segment.  Revenue notably increased by 8.8% in FY2024 to over $688 million, while net income remained stable at about $1.9 million, compared to $2.0 million a year earlier.”

    “The Bunkering Services Segment accounted for most of our revenue and net income, which benefited from improved operational efficiency and an expanding customer base. The redeployment of a vessel from vessel chartering services to the bunkering segment further enhanced our bunkering capacities, allowing us to better meet our client growing needs.”

    “Looking ahead, we recognize the importance of maintaining this momentum. Our focus will remain on optimizing balance sheet by enhancing our operational efficiencies and exploring new customer opportunities in the bunkering sector.  With our existing internal team of ship managers who are qualified professional mariners, we aim to continue growing our ship management revenue by targeting our existing bunkering client and external clients.  We’ll also maintain competitive pricing via our supplier leverage and transparent practices as we stay committed to leveraging our strengths to drive sustainable growth and deliver value to our stakeholders.”

    Financial Performance Overview

    Our Group reported an overall revenue of $688.6 million for FY2024, an increase of 8.8%, or equivalent to $55.5 million from $633.1 million in FY2023 due to rise in contribution from the Bunkering Services Segment.  This segment which contributed more than 99% of the Group’s revenue had enjoyed a 6.0% increase in the volume of oil cargo bunkered as our Group expanded its customer base.  Meanwhile, the Ship Management Segment had contributed the remaining $0.4 million of the Group’s revenue.

    We recorded an overall increase of 32.7% in our gross profit, or equivalent to $3.9 million, to $16.0 million for FY2024 from $12.1 million in FY2023.  As we strategically focus on penetrating new markets and expanding our customer base, we had managed to improve our gross profit margin from 1.91% in FY2023 to 2.33% in FY2024.

    General and administrative expenses had increased by $0.1 million in FY2024 to $5.2 million from $5.1 million as we participated in environmental, social and governance activities as part of our commitment to a sustainable green environment and incurring additional travelling expenses for our business expansion.

    Depreciation had increased by $0.5 million from $4.3 million in FY2023 to $4.8 million in FY2024 as we continued to maintain and dry-dock our vessels periodically to ensure their sea worthiness and condition when carrying out a safe and efficient bunkering operation.

    Interest expense had increased by $2.4 million to $4.6 million in FY2024, up from $2.2 million in FY2023 as higher volume of trade financing facilities were utilized to meet the increase in volume of oil cargo bunkered.

    Overall, net income remained stable at $1.9 million in FY2024, compared to $2.0 million for FY2023.

    About TMD Energy Limited

    TMD Energy Limited and its subsidiaries are principally involved in marine fuel bunkering services specializing in the supply and marketing of marine gas oil and marine fuel oil of which include high sulfur fuel oil, low sulfur fuel oil and very low sulfur fuel oil, to ships and vessels at sea. TMDEL Group is also involved in the provision of ship management services for in-house and external vessels, as well as vessels chartering. As of today, TMDEL Group operates in 19 ports across Malaysia with a fleet of 15 bunkering vessels. 

    For more information about our Company and its business activities, please visit our website at: www.tmdel.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements, including but not limited to, the Company’s Offering.  These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, result of operations, business strategy and financial needs.  Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may”, “could”, “will”, “should”, “would”, “expect”, “plan”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “predict”, “potential”, “project” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology.  The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law.  Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s financial results filings with the SEC.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    TMD ENERGY LIMITED
    e-Mail : corporate@tmdel.com

    WFS INVESTOR RELATIONS
    e-Mail : services@wealthfsllc.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DH responds to media enquiries on air-conditioning interruption in private hospital

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    In response to media enquiries regarding the air-conditioning interruption that occurred at St. Teresa’s Hospital in July 2024 for about an hour, the Department of Health (DH) today (May 14) gave the following response:

    Regulatory regime
    —————————————– 
    Complaint handling
    ———————

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 24 pacts exchanged in Kuwait

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Executive John Lee continued his visit to Kuwait today by meeting representatives of the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority, exchanging views with local political and business leaders, and witnessing the reaching of multiple pacts between government departments, enterprises and organisations of Hong Kong, the Mainland and Kuwait.

    In the morning, Mr Lee met Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority Director General Meshaal Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah to learn about Kuwait’s strategies and achievements in attracting business and investment.

    Noting that Kuwait was Hong Kong’s sixth-largest trading partner in the Middle East last year, Mr Lee said there is significant room for development in trade and business between the two places. He also stressed that Hong Kong will continue to serve as a bridge to assist enterprises in going global and attracting external investment, welcoming Kuwaiti enterprises to leverage the city’s financing support and professional services to explore international markets.

    Afterwards, the Chief Executive attended a business luncheon where he delivered a speech to near 300 local business leaders to promote Hong Kong’s business advantages and development opportunities. Moreover, government departments, enterprises and organisations from Hong Kong, the Mainland and Kuwait exchanged and announced 24 memoranda of understanding and co-operation agreements, covering areas such as economy and trade, investment, financial services, technology, legal co-operation, cargo clearance and flow, aviation, and post-secondary education.

    Mr Lee highlighted that merchandise trade between Hong Kong and the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf reached nearly US$20 billion last year, an increase of over 53% in the past four years, while Hong Kong’s merchandise trade with Kuwait last year amounted to US$200 million, up more than 20% from the previous year.

    Hong Kong, an international financial centre as well as the world’s largest offshore renminbi business hub, will give full play to its role as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” to deepen international exchanges and co-operation, Mr Lee pointed out, adding that he believes the ties between Hong Kong and Kuwait will continue to flourish.

    In the afternoon, Mr Lee visited Zain Group a major mobile telecommunications company, to learn about its business in innovative technologies and digital communications, and exchanged views with company representatives on topics such as drones, artificial intelligence and smart city development. He remarked that Hong Kong is actively developing into an international innovation and technology centre, and he welcomes the company to invest and pursue co-operation opportunities in Hong Kong.

    The Chief Executive also hosted a dinner for members of the business delegation comprising representatives from Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises to thank them for their participation in the programme of the past four days, and for working together to explore co-operation opportunities for Hong Kong and the Mainland in the Middle East.

    He will return to Hong Kong tomorrow.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOFA strongly refutes Chinese leader Xi’s misrepresentation of historical facts and UNGA Resolution 2758 in signed article

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    May 8, 2025  
    No. 144  

    In a signed article titled “Learning from History to Build Together a Brighter Future,” published in the Russian Gazette on May 7, Chinese leader Xi Jinping misrepresented historical and legal facts regarding the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation, and United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution 2758. His preposterous narrative, which distorted reality and deviated from the truth, constitutes a malicious attempt to deceive and mislead the international community and to erase the sovereignty of the Republic of China (Taiwan). The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) expresses strong displeasure at and condemnation of these false claims. 
     
    MOFA reiterates that the 1943 Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation, and other instruments with legal effect under international law all confirmed the sovereignty of the Republic of China over Taiwan. At the time, the People’s Republic of China did not even exist. How then could these instruments have “all affirmed China’s sovereignty over Taiwan”? The PRC played no role in the fight against Japan during World War II, nor was it invited to the signing of the San Francisco Peace Treaty. Therefore, the PRC is in no position to make any claim concerning “part of the postwar international order.” 
     
    The status of Taiwan, Penghu, and other islands appertaining or belonging to Taiwan was addressed during and after World War II in a series of legal instruments, including the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation, the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, the San Francisco Peace Treaty, and the 1952 Treaty of Peace between the ROC and Japan. Furthermore, the Potsdam Proclamation, the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, the San Francisco Peace Treaty, and the Treaty of Peace between the ROC and Japan all drew on the Cairo Declaration, which explicitly laid out a legal obligation that Taiwan and the islands appertaining or belonging to it (including the Diaoyutai Islands) should be restored to the Republic of China.
     
    MOFA also reaffirms that UNGA Resolution 2758 made no mention of Taiwan anywhere in its text and, therefore, could not have stated that Taiwan is a part of the PRC. It did not grant legal authority to the PRC to represent Taiwan or the Taiwanese people in the UN and its specialized agencies. By mischaracterizing this resolution, the Chinese government not only ignores historical facts but also violates principles of international law. China and its leaders have relentlessly tried to mislead the international community into accepting its “one China principle.” They have falsely claimed that Taiwan is part of the PRC and that the resolution has authorized China to represent Taiwan in the UN system. These are all attempts to erase the objective reality that the Republic of China (Taiwan) is a sovereign country and to terminate Taiwan’s pursuit of its legitimate right to participate in the UN system.
     
    MOFA urges the international community to oppose China’s continuing effort to distort historical facts and misrepresent UNGA Resolution 2758 in order to change the status quo that neither side of the Taiwan Strait is subordinate to the other. It calls on nations worldwide to jointly condemn China for again resorting to blatant provocations and attempting to undermine the status quo. MOFA emphasizes that the Republic of China (Taiwan) is an independent, sovereign country and that Taiwan has never been a part of the PRC. It reiterates that neither democratic Taiwan nor authoritarian China being subordinate to the other is the status quo across the Taiwan Strait and that this is a long-standing, internationally recognized, and objective fact. Only the democratically elected government of Taiwan has the right to represent the 23.5 million people of Taiwan in the UN system and the international arena. China has no right to interfere. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOFA congratulates Holy See on election of new pope and looks forward to deepening bilateral relations

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    MOFA congratulates Holy See on election of new pope and looks forward to deepening bilateral relations

    Date：2025-05-09
    Data Source：Department of European Affairs

    May 9, 2025  
    No. 147  

    The Holy See on May 8 elected the 267th pontiff of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV. President Lai Ching-te promptly instructed the Embassy of the ROC (Taiwan) to the Holy See to forward a congratulatory message to the new pope. In his message, President Lai extended sincere congratulations on behalf of the people, government, and Catholic community of Taiwan. He expressed confidence that the profound wisdom of Pope Leo XIV would serve as a guiding light for the Catholic Church and its 1.4 billion followers worldwide. He also reaffirmed Taiwan’s commitment to working steadfastly with the Holy See to jointly pursue peace, justice, religious freedom, unity, love, and human dignity.
     
    This year marks the 83rd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our country and the Holy See. The two sides enjoy a solid alliance and close interactions and share the universal values of religious freedom, human rights, peace, and compassion. Taiwan will continue to engage with the Holy See in promoting exchanges and cooperation, further strengthening bilateral relations, and making even greater contributions to the world. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Foreign Minister Lin concludes successful visit to US

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Foreign Minister Lin concludes successful visit to US

    Date：2025-05-10
    Data Source：Department of North American Affairs

    May 10, 2025  
    No. 152  

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung on May 10 concluded a successful three-day visit to the US state of Texas and boarded a flight back to Taiwan.
     
    On the last day of the trip, Minister Lin attended the Texas-Taiwan AI and Innovation Summit, which was organized by the Texas Association of Business (TAB), Opportunity Austin, and the Taiwan Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers’ Association (TEEMA) at the Texas State Capitol. In remarks delivered at the event, Minister Lin thanked US partners for long trusting and supporting Taiwan’s technology sector. He said that the gathering highlighted the strong partnership between Taiwan and the United States in such industries as AI, semiconductors, robotics, and energy, expressing the hope that the two countries would continue to work together in technology, capital, human resources, and other domains.
     
    Minister Lin also stressed that Taiwan and the United States enjoyed a mutually beneficial partnership in the high-tech industry. He noted that, given its complete upstream and downstream supply chains and its solid intellectual property protections, Taiwan had always been a key US partner and that together they could build even more resilient democratic supply chains. Pete Sessions, a senior member of the US House of Representatives for Texas, also spoke during the event, reaffirming democratic Taiwan as the staunchest partner of the United States in AI-related cooperation. 
     
    Minister Lin and Representative Sessions also witnessed the signing of a Taiwan-Texas economic cooperation agreement between TEEMA, TAB, and Opportunity Austin designed to facilitate two-way investment between Taiwan and the United States.
     
    During his trip, Minister Lin met with prominent political and business leaders from Texas, announced the Taiwan government’s interest in a Taiwan Tower investment and construction project in downtown Houston, and delivered his address to the Texas-Taiwan AI and Innovation Summit. Furthermore, visiting the Texas House of Representatives at the invitation of its speaker and in the company of Managing Director of the American Institute in Taiwan Washington Office Ingrid Larson, Minister Lin publicly accepted a resolution that the House had adopted in support of Taiwan.
     
    Minister Lin’s visit concluded on a successful note. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to implement a roadmap introduced by President Lai Ching-te to deepen bilateral trade relations through integrated diplomacy, underlining the diverse and robust partnership between Taiwan and the United States at all levels and across all areas. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOFA firmly opposes terrorism, expresses deep concern over growing tensions between India and Pakistan

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    MOFA firmly opposes terrorism, expresses deep concern over growing tensions between India and Pakistan

    Date：2025-05-10
    Data Source：Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs

    May 10, 2025  
    No. 153  

    Following the terrorist attack in Kashmir on April 22, tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated, eliciting international concern. 
     
    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) works closely with democratic partners worldwide in staunch opposition to international terrorism. It expresses firm support for all legitimate and necessary actions taken by the government of India to safeguard national security and fight terrorist forces that cross borders to attack innocent civilians.
     
    MOFA will continue to pay close attention to developments between India and Pakistan and engage in joint efforts to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. MOFA advises Taiwan nationals to pay heed to their personal safety, leave the area of conflict as soon as possible, and seek assistance from the nearest overseas mission in the event of an emergency. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: MOFA strongly refutes Chinese leader Xi’s misrepresentation of historical facts and UNGA Resolution 2758 in signed article

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    May 8, 2025  

    No. 144  

    In a signed article titled “Learning from History to Build Together a Brighter Future,” published in the Russian Gazette on May 7, Chinese leader Xi Jinping misrepresented historical and legal facts regarding the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation, and United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution 2758. His preposterous narrative, which distorted reality and deviated from the truth, constitutes a malicious attempt to deceive and mislead the international community and to erase the sovereignty of the Republic of China (Taiwan). The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) expresses strong displeasure at and condemnation of these false claims. 

     

    MOFA reiterates that the 1943 Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation, and other instruments with legal effect under international law all confirmed the sovereignty of the Republic of China over Taiwan. At the time, the People’s Republic of China did not even exist. How then could these instruments have “all affirmed China’s sovereignty over Taiwan”? The PRC played no role in the fight against Japan during World War II, nor was it invited to the signing of the San Francisco Peace Treaty. Therefore, the PRC is in no position to make any claim concerning “part of the postwar international order.” 

     

    The status of Taiwan, Penghu, and other islands appertaining or belonging to Taiwan was addressed during and after World War II in a series of legal instruments, including the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation, the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, the San Francisco Peace Treaty, and the 1952 Treaty of Peace between the ROC and Japan. Furthermore, the Potsdam Proclamation, the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, the San Francisco Peace Treaty, and the Treaty of Peace between the ROC and Japan all drew on the Cairo Declaration, which explicitly laid out a legal obligation that Taiwan and the islands appertaining or belonging to it (including the Diaoyutai Islands) should be restored to the Republic of China.

     

    MOFA also reaffirms that UNGA Resolution 2758 made no mention of Taiwan anywhere in its text and, therefore, could not have stated that Taiwan is a part of the PRC. It did not grant legal authority to the PRC to represent Taiwan or the Taiwanese people in the UN and its specialized agencies. By mischaracterizing this resolution, the Chinese government not only ignores historical facts but also violates principles of international law. China and its leaders have relentlessly tried to mislead the international community into accepting its “one China principle.” They have falsely claimed that Taiwan is part of the PRC and that the resolution has authorized China to represent Taiwan in the UN system. These are all attempts to erase the objective reality that the Republic of China (Taiwan) is a sovereign country and to terminate Taiwan’s pursuit of its legitimate right to participate in the UN system.

     

    MOFA urges the international community to oppose China’s continuing effort to distort historical facts and misrepresent UNGA Resolution 2758 in order to change the status quo that neither side of the Taiwan Strait is subordinate to the other. It calls on nations worldwide to jointly condemn China for again resorting to blatant provocations and attempting to undermine the status quo. MOFA emphasizes that the Republic of China (Taiwan) is an independent, sovereign country and that Taiwan has never been a part of the PRC. It reiterates that neither democratic Taiwan nor authoritarian China being subordinate to the other is the status quo across the Taiwan Strait and that this is a long-standing, internationally recognized, and objective fact. Only the democratically elected government of Taiwan has the right to represent the 23.5 million people of Taiwan in the UN system and the international arena. China has no right to interfere. (E)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: MOFA firmly opposes terrorism, expresses deep concern over growing tensions between India and Pakistan

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    MOFA firmly opposes terrorism, expresses deep concern over growing tensions between India and Pakistan

    • Date：2025-05-10
    • Data Source：Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs

    May 10, 2025  

    No. 153  

    Following the terrorist attack in Kashmir on April 22, tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated, eliciting international concern. 

     

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) works closely with democratic partners worldwide in staunch opposition to international terrorism. It expresses firm support for all legitimate and necessary actions taken by the government of India to safeguard national security and fight terrorist forces that cross borders to attack innocent civilians.

     

    MOFA will continue to pay close attention to developments between India and Pakistan and engage in joint efforts to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. MOFA advises Taiwan nationals to pay heed to their personal safety, leave the area of conflict as soon as possible, and seek assistance from the nearest overseas mission in the event of an emergency. (E)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee Chairwoman Kim Delivers Opening Remarks at Hearing on National Economic Security

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-321-9747

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee Chairwoman Young Kim delivered opening remarks at a full committee hearing titled, “National Economic Security, Advancing US Interests Abroad.”

    Watch Here

    -Remarks-

    Good morning and welcome to the East Asia and the Pacific Subcommittees, national security, national economic security advancing U.S. interests abroad. In 2019, William Burns, one of our most decorated diplomats and former CIA director described the Department of State as adrift. Over the years, the department has had trouble finding its purpose as functions and authorities have been stripped away or absorbed by the National Security Council, Department of Defense, and even agencies traditionally focused on domestic issues.

    For more than 170 years, economic statecraft was led by the Department of State. This changed in 1961 when President Kennedy sought to expand the administrative state, pulling functions and authorities out of the department to create new agencies and organizations, including the United States Trade Representative, which would be responsible for conducting all US trade and investment diplomacy. The justification for pulling these trade and investment functions out of the department was to improve the government’s capacity to prioritize and support US businesses, strengthen the export performance of U.S. industry and assure fair international trade practices. However, it has effectively split our economic interests from our diplomatic priorities, which has resulted in several challenges.

    First challenge is that it has not helped to increase the ability of U.S. businesses to access foreign markets. In practice, the foreign commercial service and foreign agriculture service officers are few in number and often positioned at U.S. embassies without alignment to our foreign policy priorities. When I travel abroad, I routinely meet with FCS personnel who explain that they spend most of their time engaged in trade shows and organizing events with minimal direct work on increasing and securing market access for American businesses. Because they are siloed off from our diplomatic efforts of the Department of State, they are restricted in leveraging the other tools in our diplomatic toolkit to assist American companies.

    Second challenge is that the American market has been left susceptible to predatory foreign competition. Our ability to protect American businesses and workers has been severely hampered, leading to calls from across the country for the executive to act and repatriate entire industries and sectors. President Trump, like his predecessors, has repeatedly said that economic security, economic policy is foreign policy. Unfortunately, we have not implemented the structural reforms needed to mobilize that sentiment.

    Even President Obama asked Congress for the authority to consolidate six agencies with trade and investment functions in 2012. This request was not supported by Congress. Bipartisan administrations have independently come to the same conclusion. The current alignment of functions and agencies charged with leading our economic statecraft effort is in need of structural reform. I agree that economic security is national security, and the key question we’ll be asking today is what structural reforms are necessary to reflect this prioritization. So we intend to answer that question in our committee’s first comprehensive state authorization legislation that we will be doing in more than 20 years.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Channel Factory Strengthens North American Leadership to Accelerate Growth and Expansion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Channel Factory, the global brand suitability and contextual advertising company, today announced several strategic leadership appointments to bolster its North American operations and drive the company’s next phase of growth, appointing Kevin Gentzel as President, Americas. Gentzel brings over two decades of experience leading revenue and transformation strategies at some of the world’s most recognized media and technology companies.

    This follows Channel Factory’s recent investment from Truelink Capital, which was specifically designed to help Channel Factory advance its future growth, and this announcement further reinforces that plan.

    In previous roles, Gentzel served as Global Chief Commercial and Growth Officer at Newsweek, was the first Chief Revenue Officer at Gannett and held the position of Head of Advertising Sales for North America at Yahoo. He has also held the position of Chief Revenue Officer at The Washington Post. During his time at The Washington Post as CRO, Gentzel helped lead the company through the Jeff Bezos acquisition. Gentzel was also the first CRO at Forbes Media, and under his leadership, the company developed the Forbes CMO Summit and Practice and launched “AdVoice” (now BrandVoice), an industry-leading version of branded content.

    Gentzel is a sought after voice at top industry conferences and has spoken at events to include Business Insider’s IGNITION, Financial Times’ Digital Media Summit in London, Forbes CMO Summit, and Digiday’s Publishing Summit.

    “As Channel Factory continues to scale and evolve, bringing on exceptional leaders is critical to realizing our vision. Kevin’s ability to drive innovation and business growth at the highest levels of media and technology makes him an invaluable addition to our executive team,” said Tony Chen Founder and CEO of Channel Factory.

    “This leadership investment underscores Channel Factory’s commitment to evolving its executive team to meet the growing needs of the digital media industry and support its ambitious expansion plans,” continued Chen.

    About Channel Factory
    Channel Factory is a global technology and data company that optimizes business performance and enhances brand reputation through ethical and effective contextual targeting. Utilizing proprietary AI and brand suitability technologically , Channel Factory ensures ads are placed on brand-safe, contextually relevant content across YouTube, CTV platforms, and social media, including Meta and TikTok. Through its conscious media planning, Channel Factory is committed to promoting sustainability, diversity, and positive content, helping brands achieve their goals while fostering a healthier digital ecosystem.

    Channel Factory has a presence in 31 countries across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and ANZ, providing advertisers with IAB standard category lists and customized content options in 49+ languages. For more information about Channel Factory, please visit http://www.channelfactory.com.

    Media Contact:
    Andrew Krepow
    andrew@broadsheetcomms.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Two lizard-like creatures crossed tracks 355 million years ago. Today, their footprints yield a major discovery

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Long, Strategic Professor in Palaeontology, Flinders University

    Marcin Ambrozik

    The emergence of four-legged animals known as tetrapods was a key step in the evolution of many species today – including humans.

    Our new discovery, published today in Nature, details ancient fossil footprints found in Australia that upend the early evolution timeline of all tetrapods. It also suggests major parts of the story could have played out in the southern supercontinent of Gondwana.

    This fossil trackway whispers that we have been looking for the origin of modern tetrapods in the wrong time, and perhaps the wrong place.

    The first feet on land

    Tetrapods originated a long time ago in the Devonian period, when strange lobe-finned fishes began to haul themselves out of the water, probably around 390 million years ago.

    This ancestral stock later split into two main evolutionary lines. One led to modern amphibians, such as frogs and salamanders. The other led to amniotes, whose eggs contain amniotic membranes protecting the developing foetus.

    Today, amniotes include all reptiles, birds and mammals. They are by far the most successful tetrapod group, numbering more than 27,000 species of reptiles, birds and mammals.

    They have occupied every environment on land, have conquered the air, and many returned to the water in spectacularly successful fashion. But the fossil record shows the earliest members of this amniote group were small and looked rather like lizards. How did they emerge?

    The oldest known tetrapods have always been thought to be primitive fish-like forms like Acanthostega, barely capable of moving on land.

    Acanthostega, an early tetrapod that lived about 365 million years ago, was a member of the ancestral stock that gave rise to amphibians and amniotes.
    The authors

    Most scientists agree amphibians and amniotes separated at the start of the Carboniferous period, about 355 million years ago. Later in the period, the amniote lineage split further into the ancestors of mammals and reptiles-plus-birds.

    Now, this tidy picture falls apart.

    A curious trackway

    Key to our discovery is a 35 centimetre wide sandstone slab from Taungurung country, near Mansfield in eastern Victoria.

    The slab is covered with the footprints of clawed feet that can only belong to early amniotes, most probably reptiles. It pushes back the origin of the amniotes by at least 35 million years.

    Mansfield slab, dated between 359-350 million years old, showing positions of early reptile tracks.
    The authors

    Despite huge variations in size and shape, all amniotes have certain features in common. For one, if we have limbs with fingers and toes, these are almost always tipped with claws – or nails, in the case of humans.

    In other tetrapod groups, real claws don’t occur. Even claw-like, hardened toe tips seen in some amphibians are extremely rare.

    Claws usually leave obvious marks in footprints, providing a clue to whether a fossil footprint was made by an amniote.

    Close up showing the oldest known tracks with hooked claws from Mansfield, Victoria. Left, photo; right, optical scan.
    The authors

    The oldest clawed tracks

    The previous oldest fossil record of reptiles is based on footprints and bones from North America and Europe around 318 million years ago.

    The oldest record of reptile-like tracks in Europe is from Silesia in Poland, a new discovery also revealed in our paper. They are around 328 million years old.

    However, the Australian slab is much older than that, dated to between 359 and 350 million years old. It comes from the earliest part of the Carboniferous rock outcropping along the Broken River (Berrepit in the Taungurung language of the local First Nations people).

    This area has long been known for yielding many kinds of spectacular fossil fishes that lived in lakes and large rivers. Now, for the first time, we catch a glimpse of life on the riverbank.

    Fossil hunters search the Carboniferous red sandstone in the Mansfield area of Victoria. Such outcrops recently yielded the trackways of the world’s oldest reptile.
    John Long

    Two trackways of fossil footprints cross the slab’s upper surface, one of them overstepping an isolated footprint facing the opposite direction. The surface is covered with dimples made by raindrops, recording a brief shower just before the footprints were made. This proves the creatures were moving about on dry land.

    All the footprints show claw marks, some in the form of long scratches where the foot has been dragged along.

    The shape of the feet matches that of known early reptile tracks, so we are confident the footprints belong to an amniote. Our short animation below gives a reconstruction of the ancient environment around Mansfield 355 million years ago, and shows how the tracks were made.

    A short animation showing the creature making the tracks and its scientific significance. By Flinders University and Monkeystack Productions.

    Rewriting the timeline

    This find has a massive impact on the origin timeline of all tetrapods.

    If amniotes had already evolved by the earliest Carboniferous, as our fossil shows, the last common ancestor of amniotes and amphibians has to lie much further back in time, in the Devonian period.

    We can estimate the timing of the split by comparing the relative lengths of different branches in DNA-based family trees of living tetrapods. It suggests the split took place in the late Devonian, maybe as far back as 380 million years ago.

    This implies the late Devonian world was populated not just by primitive fish-like tetrapods, and intermediate “fishapods” like the famous Tiktaalik, but also by advanced forms including close relatives of the living lineages. So why haven’t we found their bones?

    The location of our slab provides a clue.

    Big evolutionary questions

    All other records of Carboniferous amniotes have come from the northern hemisphere ancient landmass called Euramerica that incorporated present-day North America and Europe. Euramerica also produced the great majority of Devonian tetrapod fossils.

    The new Australian fossils come from Gondwana, a gigantic southern continent that also contained Africa, South America, Antarctica and India.

    In all of this vast landmass, which stretched from the southern tropics down across the South Pole, our little slab is currently the only tetrapod fossil from the earliest part of the Carboniferous.

    The Devonian record is scarcely much better. The Gondwana fossil record of early tetrapods is shockingly incomplete, with enormous gaps that could conceal – well, just about anything.

    This find now raises a big evolutionary question. Did the first modern tetrapods, our own distant ancestors, emerge in the temperate Devonian landscapes of southern Gondwana, long before they spread to the sun-baked semi-deserts and steaming swamps of equatorial Euramerica?

    It’s quite possible. Only more fieldwork, bringing to light new discoveries of Devonian and Carboniferous fossils from the old Gondwana continents, might one day answer that question.

    We acknowledge the Taungurung people of Mansfield area where this scientific work has taken place.

    John Long receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    Grzegorz Niedzwiedzki receives funding from the Swedish Research Council and the European Research Council.

    Per Ahlberg receives funding from the European Research Council and the Knut & Alice Wallenberg Foundation.

    – ref. Two lizard-like creatures crossed tracks 355 million years ago. Today, their footprints yield a major discovery – https://theconversation.com/two-lizard-like-creatures-crossed-tracks-355-million-years-ago-today-their-footprints-yield-a-major-discovery-254301

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement at Hearing on Trade in Critical Supply Chains

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at a hearing entitled, “Critical Supply Chains.”
    As prepared for delivery:
    “Trade has the ability to increase productivity, incomes and the availability of goods.  While we talk often about how the increased supply and choice of goods that come from international trade benefit our consumers, we sometimes forget that this also benefits our producers. 
    “In fact, a majority of what we import each year is reinvested into more manufacturing, processing and farming activity.  Efficient and reliable supply chains help American businesses, farmers and workers expand their production and focus their resources on the high-value aspects of an industry.
    “The issue we must be wary about is when supply chains turn unreliable, in particular because they are controlled by countries that refuse to follow free-market rules, such as China.  As we are all aware, China continues its march toward expanding control over key resources and goods, and thus over the world’s supply chains.   
    “For example, advanced semiconductors increasingly rely on the rare earths mineral dysprosium.  Ninety-nine percent of dysprosium comes from China. 
    “This is not an isolated case where China has dominance over a strategic resource.  China controls over ninety percent of global processing for rare earths minerals and seventy percent for cobalt, which is used in batteries for electric cars, smartphones and other components.
    “The way China uses trade and investment to expand its control over resources outside its own borders is particularly concerning.  Indonesia has 40 percent of the world’s reserves for nickel, the largest of any single country.  Yet, Chinese firms control about 75 percent of Indonesia’s nickel refining capacity. 
    “We need to take a hard look at the reality of our situation and develop an aggressive strategy to counter China. 
    “Our domestic policies are at fault in some instances.  There are things we can produce efficiently here, but burdensome and unnecessary regulation stalls development of many important projects. 
    “We should not have to learn from another economic shock, like the oil embargo of the 1970s—to realize that where we have resources or potential for investment, it must be unleashed. 
    “Both sides of the aisle agree that we need a strong semiconductor industry.  In Asia, new semiconductor fabs are being built and deployed in under three years. 
    “In the United States, the semiconductor industry—one of the safest manufacturing sectors for workers—must contend with a myriad of permitting measures that provide only marginal, if any, benefit.  These permits, however, guarantee increased delays and costs, often adding years to projects. 
    “As part of its economic policy, the Trump Administration has prioritized deregulation as a means to drive economic growth, and I look forward to working with them to rationalize our regulatory system.  
    “In many other cases, geography and geology do not provide the United States with all the natural resources that we require.  Here, the fault rests mainly with the failure to develop an affirmative trade policy.  An affirmative trade policy ensures our consumers and manufacturers have access to the resources that our nation needs to be secure and independent. 
    “Here, for example, the Trump Administration was correct to exempt Canadian potash—a key nutrient for our corn and soy farmers, from recent tariffs.
    “Another key to the Administration’s economic approach is to renegotiate global trade deals, including deals that reclaim America’s lead over China.
    “Critically, these deals will be particularly useful in strengthening supply chains, if they improve market access opportunities.  Our trading partners must respect American investment and afford it the same treatment given to their own companies. 
    “Our partners must also realize that it bolsters their security when they do not inhibit access to cutting-edge American technology, like our state-of-the-art medical devices. 
    “Unfortunately, a number of trading partners use price controls, technology theft, weak intellectual property protections or unreasonable government procurement policies to keep these devices out of their markets.  Such actions only undermine the health of their own citizens, while leaving a strategic opening for China.
    “Today, we have an opportunity to consider these issues carefully.  Our four witnesses are experts on industries critical to America’s economic security.  We should encourage thoughtful debate on how to advance a trade policy that strengthens the security of our supply chains and creates opportunities for all Americans.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Qatar Airways signs deal for 160 Boeing jets during Trump visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    State carrier Qatar Airways signed a deal on Wednesday to purchase jets from U.S. manufacturer Boeing during President Donald Trump’s visit to the Gulf Arab country.
     
    Trump said the deal was worth $200 billion and included 160 jets. Trump and Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani witnessed the signing ceremony in Doha.
     
    The deal was signed during Trump’s second stop on a tour of Gulf states after he struck a string of deals with Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.
     
    Trump said Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg, who signed the deal with Qatar Airways CEO Badr Mohammed Al-Meer next to Trump and the Qatari emir, told him “it’s the largest order of jets in the history of Boeing, that’s good”.
     
    Trump added: “It’s over $200 billion but 160 in terms of the jets, that’s fantastic. So that’s a record, Kelly, and congratulations to Boeing. Get those planes out there, get them out there.”
     
    It’s not clear which Boeing aircraft models would be part of the deal and whether the orders from Qatar are firm, which require a deposit and several contractual obligations, or are options.
     
    Boeing no longer issues catalogue prices but based on the most recent published value for its most expensive jet, the 777X, a deal for 160 of the long-range aircraft would be worth some $70 billion. Aviation analysts say that airlines typically get large discounts for bulk deals.
     
    Boeing was not immediately available for comment. Qatar Airways did not immediately respond to a request for clarification or comment.
     
    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Banking: APEC Education Ministers Issue Joint Statement Jeju, Republic of Korea | 14 May 2025 Issued by the 7th APEC Education Ministerial Meeting APEC Education Ministers have issued a joint statement reaffirming the central role of education in promoting sustainable economic growth and regional prosperity amid accelerating digital transformation.

    Source: APEC – Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation

    APEC Education Ministers have issued a joint statement reaffirming the central role of education in promoting sustainable economic growth and regional prosperity amid accelerating digital transformation.

    Gathering in Jeju under the theme “Bridging Educational Gaps and Promoting Sustainable Growth in the Era of Digital Transformation: Innovate, Connect, Prosper,” ministers emphasized the importance of regional cooperation to strengthen digital learning infrastructure, enhance education quality and equip learners with the skills needed to navigate a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

    The joint statement highlights the potential of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies to improve learning outcomes through personalized education. Ministers acknowledged that AI-powered tools—such as adaptive learning platforms—can help students address knowledge gaps and build strong academic foundations. To support this shift, they stressed the need to build teachers’ digital competencies through professional development and peer learning.

    Ministers encouraged greater collaboration across APEC economies to expand access to digital resources, share best practices, and develop policies that promote educational innovation. They reaffirmed support for initiatives under the APEC Education Strategy (2016–2030), the Arequipa Goals and the La Serena Roadmap to advance educational opportunities for all.

    The joint statement also further recognized the role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and lifelong learning in helping learners build future-ready skills and adapt to the changing demands of the digital economy.

    Read the Joint Statement of the 7th APEC Education Ministerial Meeting “Bridging Educational Gaps and Promoting Sustainable Growth in the Era of Digital Transformation: Innovate, Connect, Prosper

    Read the Chair’s Statement on the 7th APEC Human Resources Development Ministerial Meeting APEC Korea 2025

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

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Remarks by CE at media session in Kuwait City (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, concluded the visit of the business delegation comprising representatives from Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises to Middle East together with the Chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Dr Peter Lam; the Chairman of the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce, Ms Agnes Chan; and the Chairman of the Dongchao Information Technology (Shanghai) Company Limited, Mr Wang Chaoyou, in Kuwait City, Kuwait, today (May 14, Kuwait City time). Following are the remarks by Mr Lee:

    Chief Executive: Today marks the final day of our visit to Kuwait. I would like to extend my gratitude to the Kuwaiti Government for its high-level hospitality and meticulous arrangements. I am particularly grateful to the Kuwaiti Government for arranging the government team to stay at Bayan Palace. We are particularly grateful to the Acting Prime Minister for hosting the whole delegation for lunch at the Palace, leaving an unforgettable memory amongst all members of the delegation.

    Yesterday, I met with His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, followed by the meeting with His Highness the Crown Prince. And then I also met the Acting Prime Minister, who hosted a roundtable discussion attended by senior Kuwaiti officials. We share a common commitment to deepening bilateral co-operation in trade, investment and cultural exchanges.

    During our visit to Kuwait, we signed and reached 24 Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) and co-operation agreements, spanning across trade, investment, financial services, technology, legal co-operation, customs facilitation, aviation, tertiary education, etc.

    Today is the last day of our Middle East visit. I would like to do a sum-up of my four-day visit to Kuwait and Qatar. The delegation comprised Hong Kong and Mainland business leaders. We achieved three key objectives:

    1. To strengthen government-to-government relations;
    2. To find new areas of collaboration;
    3. To make friends, and extend our network.

    The visit is successful, particularly in six areas.

    First, we strengthened relations between the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government and the governments of Qatar and Kuwait, establishing collaborative consensus.

    Second, the visit resulted in a total of 59 MOUs and agreements, 35 in Qatar and 24 in Kuwait, spanning across diverse areas and laying a robust groundwork for multifaceted co-operation.

    Third, we deepened mutual understanding and strengthened commercial and trading networks. Delegation members have expanded their network and connections, promoting the strengths and opportunities of Hong Kong and the Mainland to partners in Qatar and Kuwait.

    Fourth, we showcased Hong Kong’s unique role under “one country, two systems” as a “super connector” and “super value-adder”, bridging global opportunities. I invited, for the first time, over 20 Mainland enterprise representatives to join the delegation, reflecting the synergy between Hong Kong and the Mainland. We together aim to provide end-to-end supply chain solutions for the Middle East and beyond.

    Fifth, we bolstered ties with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states. We created broader opportunities. Plus the two countries I have visited during my last Middle East visit, we have now visited four of the six GCC member states, representing two-thirds of the bloc and 90 per cent of its population The HKSAR Government is now actively exploring a free trade agreement with the GCC to further access this vital market.

    Sixth, we advanced people-to-people exchanges. Two days ago, I announced Qatar’s new 30-day visa-free arrangement for HKSAR passport holders. I am pleased now to further announce that the UAE (United Arab Emirates) will grant Hong Kong 30-day visa-free access starting May 15, while Oman will on the same date extend its visa-free period from 10 days to 14 days.

    In meetings with leaders and officials, I appreciated their forward-looking vision and understanding of Hong Kong’s unparalleled advantages under “one country, two systems” as a bridge between the Mainland and the world. Middle East countries are seeking diversification of risks and looking for opportunities in China and the HKSAR in order to join the tide of the global economic shift towards the East. In this, Hong Kong has boundless opportunities.

    Reporter: I just have a couple of questions for you, please. Can you talk to us about the relationship between Kuwait and Hong Kong in particular, and Kuwait and China in general? The second question is about the Memoranda of Understanding that you have signed yesterday and today. How can you describe them? And how do they benefit the relations between Kuwait and Hong Kong?

    Chief Executive: We have a very strong foundation of understanding and co-operation with Kuwait. Kuwait is the first country to sign two agreements together with Hong Kong. One is the agreement on investment protection and promotion, and another agreement is about the avoidance of double taxation. That speaks for the strong link, which has been established long ago between Hong Kong and Kuwait. We have been inspired by the Kuwait Vision 2035, which covers many areas in full alignment with what Hong Kong is doing and focusing on. The Kuwait Vision 2035 covers areas to transform Kuwait into financial centre, trading centre, infrastructure-building, human capital development, healthcare, sustainability, and also building Kuwait into a country of influence in this region and globally.

    Hong Kong has a vision very similar to Kuwait in this regard. Hong Kong is a financial centre, and is a shipping and trading centre, and we are developing Hong Kong into an I&T (innovation and technology) hub. We are quite proud of our education, because despite Hong Kong being just a city of 1 100 square kilometres, we have five universities that are within the top 100 globally, and we are quite strong in R&D (research and development), particularly a lot of our universities’ research has been graded outstanding. What we are working hard is raising Hong Kong’s profile in all this regard. Sustainability is also one of our focuses, both in what we do environmentally and also financially. We are doing a lot of green finance, and we emphasise strongly (ESG) compliance. That is where we are going, and we think there are a lot of things, because our visions just align so much together – a lot to do – and that is between Hong Kong and Kuwait. I am very thankful and grateful to His Highness, Amir of Kuwait, to meet me, and I am grateful to the Prime Minister also, to host a lunch in the palace for the whole team. Throughout all the meetings and discussions, we have very common understanding that we should co-operate more in different areas.

    Coming to the relation between China and Kuwait, China is Kuwait’s, I think, largest trade partner, and the diplomatic relations between China and Kuwait started long, long time ago, and the partnership is close and ever-rising. When I honourably saw His Highness, Amir of Kuwait, I felt his friendship, genuineness, and sincerity of building good relations between Kuwait and China. I am honoured to be able to be part of that success story. My whole team feels proud to be in that part of success story.

    Coming to the MOUs we have signed with Kuwait, both the governments and different parties, 24 agreements and MOUs, they cover a wide range of areas. Despite the very good foundation we already have, we are now formally telling people of the two places where are the main directions of co-operation both governments agree on. That helps in aligning direction, energy, focuses and also our time, because time is precious. So all of them now, these are the areas we can co-operate on and work hard on as well. That will bring returns in much shorter time, in much bigger scale. Already, I have heard some delegations forming to come to Hong Kong, so as to further continue the link. I am very positive with the overall results, and I will be seeing a lot of activities, not just between government-and-government exchange, but also business-to-business, individuals-to-individuals. And that is why I am also very thrilled to announce a lot of convenience that we have created for visa, for going through the boundary, both goods and people.

    (Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the remarks.)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Preston’s Mayor, Councillor Phil Crowe, bids farewell

    Source: City of Preston

    14 May 2025

    Today, Councillor Philip Crowe, the 696th Mayor of Preston, steps down from his role, making way for Councillor Sue Whittam, who will proudly take on the title of Madam Mayor. 

    “It’s been an honour and a privilege to serve as Mayor of Preston.” 

    To mark the occasion, Councillor Crowe will address fellow councillors and guests at the Mayor Making ceremony in the Council Chamber at Preston Town Hall. 

    Reflecting on his time as Mayor, Councillor Crowe has shared many memorable highlights, from unveiling the Feathers McGraw statue and opening the new Animate Leisure Complex, to meeting famous faces like Nick Park and Paddy McGuinness, and attending the unforgettable Radio 2 in the Park event, where he made a guest appearance on stage in front of thousands with Radio 2 DJ Sara Cox.

    Speaking fondly about that weekend, Councillor Crowe said: 

    “That was brilliant — I was dying to see the Pet Shop Boys. We were taken to this huge tent, filled with screens, surrounded by police, fire and rescue, the ambulance service, and Preston City Council.  

    “Then the head of security announced, ‘Ladies and gentlemen, the Mayor and Mayoress of Preston,’ and everyone stood up. It was incredible.” 

    Throughout his mayoral year, Councillor Crowe has championed several charities, including Furniture for Education Worldwide (FEW), Let’s Grow Preston, and Disability Equality North West.

    He is especially proud of his ongoing work with FEW in The Gambia. 

    Reflecting on his time as Mayor, Councillor Crowe said: 

    “Every day has brought a new highlight. The number of people who volunteer in Preston is phenomenal. In addition to my mayoral duties, I’m also honoured to serve as Honorary President of St Catherine’s Hospice, which alone has more than 600 volunteers.” 

    Though his mayoral chapter is ending, Councillor Crowe will continue to serve as a councillor and remain committed to supporting his community. 

    Councillor Crowe added: 

    “I never imagined becoming a councillor, let alone the Mayor. It’s been an honour and a privilege to represent the city I love.”

     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –