Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI China: Zheng hungry to break her routine against familiar foe

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

    The same restaurant, same risotto and same aggressive game — China’s superstar tennis ace Zheng Qinwen has regained her winning form in Rome by sticking to her routine in the Italian capital.

    And she sure hopes the momentum helps her pull off a different result at her seventh attempt at scaling a brick wall that, to date, has consistently proved a course too high.

    Zheng Qinwen returns a shot during the women’s singles round of 16 match between Zheng Qinwen of China and Bianca Andreescu of Canada at the WTA Italian Open in Rome, Italy, May 12, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Jing)

    Three-time major winner and world No 1 Aryna Sabalenka awaits Zheng in an intriguing quarterfinal clash at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia. The reigning Olympic champion is chasing a first win in her seventh encounter with the mighty Belarusian, while trying to reach the final four for the first time at the WTA 1000 tournament, following two straight quarterfinal exits.

    Although having lost to Sabalenka six times in a row, all on hard courts, Zheng is motivated to buck that trend in their first battle on clay, counting on her newfound confidence on the tricky surface.

    “She’s an overwhelmingly attacking player. You need to hang in there, absorbing her first flurry of hits, until she makes some mistakes and allows you a chance,” Zheng explained her tactics for facing Sabalenka after beating Canada’s Bianca Andreescu in straight sets in the round of 16 on Monday.

    “Nobody hits every shot in with force. It’s quite hard, especially on clay. I need to play solid and defend well consistently, and attack when the opportunity comes.

    “She’s in a great form, and is the most consistent player, so far, on the tour this year. I am looking forward to playing her on clay, though.

    “Each surface requires a different style, and I’d really like to gauge my game on clay against her. Maybe I need to push harder in my first serve, trying wider, and, perhaps riskier, angles to dictate the play.”

    Known as an aggressive attacker in her own right, Zheng’s firepower has, multiple times, proved not powerful enough when facing Sabalenka hitting on all cylinders, a pattern underlined by the fact that the top-seed has broken Zheng 26 times, while conceding just six of her own service games, in their six previous encounters.

    Zheng’s last deep run at the WTA 1000 level was stopped by Sabalenka in quarterfinals at the Miami Open, where she dispatched the Chinese world No 8 in straight sets and went on to win the second of her three titles so far this year.

    A tough battle is guaranteed, for sure, and Zheng knows the only way to survive is to stay mentally strong, tactically sharp and physically poised.

    The balance between hitting hard and staying patient will be the key, she added.

    “I have to manage myself (mentally), not get too excited or be too aggressive,” said Zheng, who hasn’t advanced further than the quarterfinal stage at any event so far this year, with three last-eight appearances in Charleston, Miami and Indian Wells.

    “I need to find the right balance on clay, because from my experience in Madrid, I played a little bit too rushed. So, I told myself, whatever happens I have to stay solid, always be ready, and when I have the chance, go for it.”

    Hampered by a nagging right elbow injury that has affected her game since the Australian Open, Zheng has experienced an up and down season so far, with her second-round defeat to Russia’s unseeded Anastasia Potapova in Madrid last month casting a shadow on her prospects for Roland Garros, where she became a household name in China by winning Asia’s first Olympic tennis singles gold medal at Paris 2024.

    The sense of familiarity and warm reception she received in Rome seem like a timely respite, as Zheng regrouped, delivering three convincing wins, highlighted by the 7-5, 6-1 submission of Andreescu, the resurgent 2019 US Open champion.

    Zheng saved two set points in the 10th game of the opening set, having trailed 5-4 with Andreescu serving after letting a 3-1 lead slip away. But, Zheng quickly pulled herself together to finish the match by winning nine of the last 10 games.

    It also marked Zheng’s 20th career victory over major winners on the WTA Tour.

    “I still kind of lost my focus and made unnecessary mistakes midway through the first set, but, what I did best today was not panic. I stayed composed there, and fought back one point at a time,” said the 22-year-old Hubei province native.

    “Gradually, I felt much better, and the cheers from the crowd helped me close it out.”

    Apart from chants of “bravo Zheng” shouted her way, she also attributed, at least part of her feel-good campaign in Rome, to the delights of a local restaurant she visits every night.

    “I keep a strict diet, but at the same time I enjoy Rome,” Zheng told Channel Tennis after her second-round win against Serbia’s Olga Danilovic on Friday.

    “I go to the same restaurant every night. They have very good seafood, like the lemon fish and risotto. I think I can maintain my diet, but enjoy at the same time.”

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Money Market Operations as on May 13, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India


    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)

      Volume
    (One Leg)
    Weighted
    Average Rate
    Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 5,88,426.72 5.69 0.01-6.85
         I. Call Money 16,043.27 5.83 4.90-5.90
         II. Triparty Repo 3,72,607.10 5.72 5.00-5.82
         III. Market Repo 1,98,108.35 5.61 0.01-6.00
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 1,668.00 5.94 5.90-6.85
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 253.25 5.73 5.50-5.85
         II. Term Money@@ 1,158.50 5.75-6.10
         III. Triparty Repo 5,820.15 5.87 5.75-5.95
         IV. Market Repo 0.00
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo Tue, 13/05/2025 1 Wed, 14/05/2025 5,401.00 6.01
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (III) Long Term Operations^          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Tue, 13/05/2025 1 Wed, 14/05/2025 154.00 6.25
    4. SDFΔ# Tue, 13/05/2025 1 Wed, 14/05/2025 1,94,470.00 5.75
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -1,88,915.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo Fri, 02/05/2025 14 Fri, 16/05/2025 149.00 6.01
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (III) Long Term Operations^          
         (a) Repo Thu, 17/04/2025 43 Fri, 30/05/2025 25,731.00 6.01
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF#          
    4. SDFΔ#          
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       8,709.21  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     34,589.21  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -1,54,325.79  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on May 13, 2025 9,56,950.79  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending May 16, 2025 9,41,653.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ May 13, 2025 5,401.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on April 18, 2025 2,02,749.00  
    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).
    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.
    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.
    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.
    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.
    & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020.
    Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022.
    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.
    ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015.
    # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023.
    ^ As per the Press Release No. 2025-2026/91 dated April 11, 2025.
    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    
    Press Release: 2025-2026/316

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: APEC Officials Propel AI and Demographic Agendas Jeju, Republic of Korea | 14 May 2025 Issued by the APEC Senior Officials’ Meeting Chairing the meeting, Ambassador Seongmee Yoon emphasized Korea’s vision for a forward-looking and action-oriented APEC agenda this year.

    Source: APEC – Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation

    As global uncertainties mount and long-term challenges reshape the economic landscape, APEC economies gathered in Jeju this week to accelerate collaboration on connectivity, innovation and prosperity.

    At their two-day meeting, senior officials advanced region-wide efforts on emerging priorities such as artificial intelligence, demographic transformation and economic integration, building on recent ministerial meetings and stakeholder dialogues.

    Chairing the meeting, Ambassador Seongmee Yoon emphasized Korea’s vision for a forward-looking and action-oriented APEC agenda this year.

    “Korea’s priorities this year reflect the urgent need to future-proof our economies,” Ambassador Yoon said. “We are advancing innovation not just in technology, but in how we cooperate, how we trade and how we prepare our people for what’s next. We are strengthening connections across borders, across sectors and between generations. And we are pursuing prosperity that benefits all the people in the region.”

    “This meeting in Jeju is where we take those ideas and turn them into deliverables,” she added. “As we move toward the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week in Gyeongju, Korea is committed to driving meaningful, cooperative outcomes that benefit the whole APEC region.”

    The meeting opened with updates from key stakeholder groups, including the APEC Business Advisory Council, the Senior Finance Officials’ Meeting, the Pacific Economic Cooperation Council and the APEC Study Centers Consortium.

    Senior officials reviewed outcomes from recent ministerial meetings on ocean sustainability and human resources development, where ministers underscored the need for resilient labor systems and sustainable marine economies. Ministerial meetings on education and trade will follow on 14 and 15–16 May, respectively.

    They also considered the next steps for Korea’s flagship deliverables, including the proposed APEC AI Initiative, which outlines a region-wide approach to harnessing artificial intelligence for inclusive and sustainable growth. The initiative promotes a shared outlook, capacity building and investment in sustainable AI infrastructure.

    Additionally, Korea’s proposed Collaborative Framework on Demographic Changes was discussed, aiming to help economies address the implications of declining fertility rate and aging populations.

    “APEC’s strength lies in its ability to bring economies together to tackle profound challenges without losing sight of practical outcomes,” said Eduardo Pedrosa, Executive Director of the APEC Secretariat.

    “In Jeju, we’re seeing that in action; real collaboration on the future of artificial intelligence, on adapting to demographic transitions and on strengthening economic integration. These are not abstract goals. They’re essential to building a region that is more competitive, more connected and more resilient.”

    The Committee on Trade and Investment reported progress on economic integration in the region, trade facilitation and the inclusive growth agenda. Discussions also covered the evolution of APEC’s structural reform priorities, services competitiveness and the transition from informal to formal economies.

    Ambassador Yoon encouraged officials to continue building consensus and delivering tangible results ahead of upcoming sectoral ministerial meetings and APEC Economic Leaders’ Week.

    “Our work here lays the groundwork for impactful deliverables in Gyeongju,” she concluded. “Let us move forward with clarity, urgency and a commitment to deliver on our vision.” 


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

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 14, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 14, 2025.

    Young detainees often have poor mental health. The earlier they’re incarcerated, the worse it gets
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Emaediong I. Akpanekpo, PhD Candidate, School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney Populist rhetoric targeting young offenders often leads to kneejerk punitive responses, such as stricter bail laws and lowering the age of criminal responsibility. This, in turn, has led to more young people being held in detention.

    PNG police authorised to use lethal force with ‘domestic terrorist’ kidnappers as one hostage escapes
    RNZ Pacific An escape of a 13-year-old girl from a hostage crisis on the border of Papua New Guinea’s Western and Hela provinces has boosted hopes for the rescue of her fellow captives. The group of 10 people was taken captive early on Monday morning at Adujmari. PNG Police Commissioner David Manning has called the

    Political parties can recover after a devastating election loss. But the Liberals will need to think differently
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Frank Bongiorno, Professor of History, ANU College of Arts and Social Sciences, Australian National University Australia has just had its second landslide election in a row. In 2022, there was a landslide against the Liberals, but not to Labor, which fell over the line (as a majority

    NZ celebrates Rotuman as part of Pacific Language Week series
    By Grace Tinetali-Fiavaai, RNZ Pacific journalist Aotearoa celebrates Rotuman language as part of the Ministry for Pacific Peoples’ Pacific Language Week series this week. Rotuman is one of five UNESCO-listed endangered languages among the 12 officially celebrated in New Zealand. The others are Tokelaun, Niuean, Cook Islands Māori and Tuvaluan. This year’s theme is, ‘Åf’ạkia

    In Indonesia, Albanese has a chance to reset a relationship held back by anxiety and misperceptions
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hangga Fathana, Assistant Professor of International Relations, Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII) Yogyakarta Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has wasted little time taking his first overseas trip since Labor won a historic victory in Australia’s federal election. He’ll head to Indonesia today to meet the country’s new president, Prabowo

    From GPS to weather forecasts: the hidden ways Australia relies on foreign satellites
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cassandra Steer, Chair, Australian Centre for Space Governance, Australian National University Japan Meteorological Agency via Wikimedia You have probably used space at least 20 times today. Satellites let you buy a coffee with your phone, book a rideshare, navigate your way to meet someone, and check the

    Using a blue inhaler alone is not enough to manage your asthma
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stephen Hughes, Lecturer in Pharmacy Practice, University of Sydney New Africa/Shutterstock Inhalers have been key to asthma management since the 1950s. The most common, salbutamol, comes in a familiar blue-coloured inhaler (or “puffer”). This kind of “rescue inhaler” brings quick relief from asthma symptoms. You may know

    The pay equity puzzle: can we compare effort, skill and risk between different industries?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gemma Piercy, Lecturer, Sociology, Social Policy and Criminology, University of Waikato Getty Images Last week’s move by the government to amend pay equity laws, using parliamentary urgency to rush the reforms through, caught opposition parties and New Zealanders off guard. Protests against the Equal Pay Amendment Bill

    Sussan Ley makes history, but faces unprecedented levels of difficulty
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mark Kenny, Professor, Australian Studies Institute, Australian National University As if by visual metaphor, Sussan Ley’s task seemed both obvious and impossible in her first press conference as the new Liberal leader. Three years ago this month, Ley had done something uncannily similar to what Ted O’Brien

    View from The Hill: Ley says Liberals must ‘meet the people where they are’, but how can a divided party do that?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Cynics point out that when a party turns to a woman leader, it is often handing her a hot mess. That’s certainly so with the federal Liberals, now choosing their first female leader in eight decades. For the Liberals, and

    It’s a hard job being environment minister. Here’s an insider’s view of the key challenges facing Murray Watt
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Burnett, Honorary Associate Professor, ANU College of Law, Australian National University Australia’s new environment minister, Murray Watt, is reported to be a fixer. That’s good, because there’s a lot to fix. Being environment minister is a hard gig. It often requires difficult choices between environmental and

    AWPA calls on Albanese to raise West Papuan human rights with Prabowo
    Asia Pacific Report An Australian solidarity group for West Papuan self-determination has called on Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to raise the human rights crisis in the Melanesian region with the Indonesian president this week. Albanese is visiting Indonesia for two days from tomorrow. AWPA has written a letter to Albanese making the appeal for

    The US and China have reached a temporary truce in the trade wars, but more turbulence lies ahead
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Draper, Professor, and Executive Director: Institute for International Trade, and Jean Monnet Chair of Trade and Environment, University of Adelaide Defying expectations, the United States and China have announced an important agreement to de-escalate bilateral trade tensions after talks in Geneva, Switzerland. The good, the bad

    Physicists at the Large Hadron Collider turned lead into gold – by accident
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ulrik Egede, Professor of Physics, Monash University Sunny Young / Unsplash Medieval alchemists dreamed of transmuting lead into gold. Today, we know that lead and gold are different elements, and no amount of chemistry can turn one into the other. But our modern knowledge tells us the

    New Caledonia riots one year on: ‘Like the country was at war’
    SPECIAL REPORT: By Lydia Lewis, RNZ Pacific presenter/bulletin editor Stuck in a state of disbelief for months, journalist Coralie Cochin was one of many media personnel who inadvertently put their lives on the line as New Caledonia burned. “It was very shocking. I don’t know the word in English, you can’t believe what you’re seeing,”

    New Caledonia riots one year on: ‘Like the country was at war’
    SPECIAL REPORT: By Lydia Lewis, RNZ Pacific presenter/bulletin editor Stuck in a state of disbelief for months, journalist Coralie Cochin was one of many media personnel who inadvertently put their lives on the line as New Caledonia burned. “It was very shocking. I don’t know the word in English, you can’t believe what you’re seeing,”

    From nuclear to nature laws, here’s where new Liberal leader Sussan Ley stands on 4 energy and environment flashpoints
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Justine Bell-James, Professor, TC Beirne School of Law, The University of Queensland Sussan Ley has been elected Liberal leader after defeating rival Angus Taylor in a party room vote on Tuesday. Now the leadership question is settled, the hard work of rebuilding the party can begin. In

    The ‘extroverted’ north and ‘introverted’ south: how climate and culture influence Iranian architecture
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mahsa Khanpoor Siahdarka, PhD Candidate in Built Environment, RMIT University Shutterstock The architecture of northern Iran exhibits an extroverted quality. Buildings are designed to let in the sounds of rain, birds and rustling trees, as well as scents of nature. Architecture in this region is characterised by

    ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 13, 2025
    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 13, 2025.

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ricketts Introduces PORCUPINE Act to Support Taiwan’s Self-Defense

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced the Providing Our Regional Companions Upgraded Protection in Nefarious Environments (PORCUPINE) Act. Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) is the lead Democrat sponsor. The PORCUPINE Act will help streamline the process for arms sales to Taiwan regulated by the Arms Export Control Act. Currently, sales to NATO member states and other close allies and partners of the United States have shorter congressional notification timelines and higher threshold values. However, Taiwan is not currently included on that list. The bill will also make it easier for our allies and partners to send U.S.-origin weapons to Taiwan. 

    On my recent CODEL to Taiwan, I saw a partner ready and willing to provide for its own self-defense in the face of increasing aggression by Communist China,” said Ricketts. “However, our antiquated arms sales process and struggling defense industrial base have prevented Taiwan from getting the weapons it needs in a timely manner. The PORCUPINE Act will make it easier for us to send arms to Taiwan, quicker, while also creating a process for our closest allies and partners to do the same.”

    “Taiwan is on the front lines of a free and open Indo-Pacific, and defending the island and our values requires that we swiftly provide the weapons systems it needs—but in the face of Chinese greyzone pressure and the constant threat of invasion, it takes far too long to deliver these weapons,” said Coons. “China isn’t going to bide its time and wait for arms sales to be completed before launching an attack. Passing the PORCUPINE Act today is the first of many steps we need to take to update our arms sales process and ensure our Taiwanese partners have what they need to defend themselves.”

    The PORCUPINE Act would:

    • Put Taiwan in the NATO-plus category for shorter formal Congressional notification times and higher weapons value thresholds.
    • Require the Secretary of State to establish an expedited decision-making process for blanket third party transfers of defense articles and services from NATO member countries, Japan, Australia, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand or Israel to Taiwan, including transfers and re-transfers of U.S. origin grant, FMS, and DCS end-items not covered by an exemption under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).

    BACKGROUND:

    Under the Arms Export Control Act (AECA), the Department of State (State) submits to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and House Foreign Affairs Committee a notification of a prospective major arms sale before the executive branch takes further formal action. This allows committees to ask questions or raise concerns prior to State initiating a formal notification. State will generally not proceed as long as one of the four corners has a hold on a sale during the informal process. 

    After the informal notification process is complete, the AECA requires the President to formally notify Congress 30 days before issuing a Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) for an Foreign Military Sales(FMS)-administered sale, enhancement, or upgrading of major defense equipment valued at $14 million or more; the sale, enhancement, or upgrading of defense articles or services valued at $50 million or more; or the sale, enhancement, or upgrading of design and construction services valued at $200 million or more. In the case of such sales to NATO member states, NATO, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Israel, or New Zealand, the President must formally notify Congress 15 calendar days before proceeding with the sale. The prior notice threshold values for transfers to these recipients are $25 million for the sale, enhancement, or upgrading of major defense equipment; $100 million for the sale, enhancement, or upgrading of defense articles and defense services; and $300 million for the sale, enhancement, or upgrading of design and construction services.

    A similar process for formal notification times and thresholds exists between NATO-Plus countries and other countries for Direct Commercial Sales (DCS), as well. FMS involves the U.S. government acting as an intermediary, facilitating a government-to-government transaction, while DCS allows direct contracts between US companies and foreign entities. DCS offers more flexibility in contract terms and conditions. FMS often include a “total package” approach, encompassing training, spare parts, and other support, potentially leading to higher initial costs. FMS contracts typically adhere to U.S. military standards, ensuring interoperability with US forces. DCS contracts may offer non-standard configurations.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The 8th meeting of heads of territorial bodies for emergency situations of border regions of SCO member states was held in Shanghai

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, May 14 (Xinhua) — The 8th meeting of heads of border emergency management departments of member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and an exchange event on emergency management and cross-border cooperation between China and Central Asia were held in Shanghai, east China, from May 11 to 13.

    The meeting discussed approaches to establishing the SCO Emergency Information Exchange System and the China-SCO Emergency Medical Assistance Cooperation Center. In addition, communication mechanisms and information exchange channels were also defined.

    China is willing to work with other SCO countries to continuously promote the establishment of cooperation mechanisms in emergency management in border areas and accelerate the development of cooperation in border areas in such areas as joint forest and grassland fire prevention and control, information exchange, cross-border rescue operations, joint exercises and training, according to Liu Shunzhang, an official with China’s Ministry of Emergency Management.

    The meeting was attended by heads of territorial emergency response agencies of border regions from Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Mongolia and other countries in online and offline formats. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI China: Airfreight boom drives new opening-up momentum in inland China

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

    Xi’an, an ancient capital of China and the starting point of the historic Silk Road, is writing a new chapter in global trade as it strives to develop an airfreight-driven economy, with its international air cargo and mail volume doubling in the first four months of 2024.

    From January to April, the inland metropolis handled 17,200 tonnes of cross-border shipments — primarily e-commerce goods — marking a 102.4 percent year-on-year increase.

    The growth was driven by Xi’an’s expanded Eurasian cargo network this year, with more cargo flights to Budapest and the launch of four new freight routes linking Tbilisi, Milan, Debrecen, and Madrid, thereby strengthening the city’s connections with Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, according to Xi’an Xianyang International Airport.

    In February, the airport’s Terminal 5, a 705,500-square-meter “super terminal” larger than the combined area of the previous three terminals, officially opened, adding 115 aircraft parking stands while boosting the city’s air logistics capacity.

    Amid global economic uncertainties, China has continued to advance high-level openness. The country’s total goods imports and exports in yuan-denominated terms expanded 1.3 percent year on year in the first quarter of 2025, demonstrating stable growth and strong resilience, according to the General Administration of Customs.

    Xi’an’s booming airfreight economy is part of China’s broader opening-up drive, contributing to the country’s overall trade expansion.

    In the Airport New City (ANC) of Xixian New Area, where the airport is located, bonded warehouses are stocked with imported daily necessities and cosmetics as workers at a cross-border logistics company busily load orders for delivery.

    “Compared with coastal cities like Hangzhou, Xi’an offers a cost advantage for air cargo to Europe, Central Asia and the Middle East, with flight times shortened by around two hours,” said Lan Yibo, the general manager of the company, adding that they have begun exporting Chinese-made light industrial products to Europe starting this year.

    The airport’s high customs clearance efficiency and convenience have attracted a growing number of businesses.

    “By making prior reservations, companies can cut customs clearance times from three or four days to just seven hours,” said Dang Liming, an official of the ANC.

    Benefiting from the airport-oriented economy, the ANC now hosts 13 logistics parks and over 200 leading logistics firms.

    The thriving air logistics has boosted the express delivery and cross-border e-commerce businesses.

    Last year, the Xi’an airport handled over 7.3 million international express shipments, ranking second in China.

    Located within the ANC, the northwest China regional hub of delivery giant YTO Express handled 1 billion parcels last year, up 33.3 percent year on year.

    Shao Xing, a manager at the company, said the Xi’an regional hub has ranked among the top five nationwide in terms of scale.

    “The company will launch a new Silk Road international port project by the end of next year, aiming to expand multimodal transport capabilities and enhance connectivity in Central Asia through integrated logistics networks,” Shao said. 

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN Engages with New Zealand Media

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, was interviewed by the Asia Media Centre, on the margins of his Working Visit to New Zealand. The interview covered key topics, including the 50th anniversary of ASEAN-New Zealand dialogue relations, among others.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN Engages with New Zealand Media appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN participates in a roundtable organised by the Asia New Zealand Foundation

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today participated in in the roundtable discussion organised by the Asia New Zealand Foundation in Wellington. Participated by New Zealand’s government officials and academia, the Roundtable focused on geopolitical issues and challenges impacting the region, as well as opportunities to strengthen cooperation on this matter. SG Dr. Kao shared his observations on ASEAN and how it has managed to navigate the evolving geopolitical changes. He further emphasised the need to work together and explore ways to effectively address challenges in this rapidly changing world.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN participates in a roundtable organised by the Asia New Zealand Foundation appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN pays a Courtesy Call on Prime Minister of New Zealand

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today paid a courtesy call on the Prime Minister of New Zealand, The Right Honourable Christopher Luxon, during his Working Visit to New Zealand. The meeting served as a reaffirmation for the strong and enduring ASEAN-New Zealand partnership, which has steadfastly grown and broadened over the past five decades.
     
    SG Dr. Kao and Prime Minister Luxon exchanged views on regional and international developments and pathways to further advance ASEAN-New Zealand ties, including the proposal for the establishment of an ASEAN-New Zealand Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, in conjunction with the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of ASEAN- New Zealand Dialogue Relations this year.

     
    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN pays a Courtesy Call on Prime Minister of New Zealand appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Foreign engineer delves into China’s EV industry

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Sitting at his desk, turning on his computer and entering his password, Indian Joseph begins his working day.

    Joseph is an electric drive assembly and testing engineer. This is his third year with Chinese electric vehicle company NIO and his 13th year in China.

    For Joseph, the rapid technological changes in the EV industry are an opportunity to constantly learn new things. “Unlike the traditional automotive industry, there are so many new, constantly improving technologies in EVs. As someone who works at the forefront of R&D, I am constantly exposed to new things, and my technical knowledge and skills are constantly being enriched,” says Joseph.

    Hu Bo, Joseph’s colleague and also an electric drive assembly and testing engineer, praises him: “Joseph has more than ten years of experience in the electric vehicle industry. He is an excellent engineer and has unique methods for solving complex technical problems.”

    “As a global company, overseas engineers are an important part of NIO’s technology ecosystem, helping us better interact with the global market. In order for China’s EV industry to maintain its leading position, it is necessary to attract global innovation resources,” Hu Bo said.

    Thirteen years ago, Joseph, a graduate in automotive engineering from Coventry University in the UK, came to China with hope and excitement.

    Joseph’s initial work was not as an automotive engineer, but at a consulting firm specializing in the automotive industry. “At the time, the Chinese EV industry was in its infancy, and we were mostly doing market analysis,” Joseph says.

    In 2022, Joseph moved to Hefei, Anhui Province, and became an electric vehicle engineer. He believes that, like many Chinese electric vehicle companies, NIO has strong innovation capabilities, and he enjoys challenging and creative work. “Here, I don’t have to follow a template, and I can always implement my ideas.”

    Having worked in China for over a decade, Joseph has witnessed the rapid development of China’s electric vehicle industry: “When I first came here, I never imagined that electric vehicles would develop so quickly in China and would be in every home within a few years.”

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-Evening Report: Political parties can recover after a devastating election loss. But the Liberals will need to think differently

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Frank Bongiorno, Professor of History, ANU College of Arts and Social Sciences, Australian National University

    Australia has just had its second landslide election in a row.

    In 2022, there was a landslide against the Liberals, but not to Labor, which fell over the line (as a majority government) by three seats and with just over 32% of the primary vote. But the Coalition – actually Liberal – loss of seats, at 19, was the kind of result usually associated with the term “landslide”.

    In 2025, we have a genuine landside to Labor. At the time of writing, the ABC has declared a Labor gain of 15 seats (78 to 93), but with the strong likelihood of one more, and an outside chance of another.

    Labor’s share of the two-party preferred vote sits at 54.8%. To add a bit of historical perspective: Labor’s two-party preferred vote is lower than the Coalition’s in the so-called Vietnam election of 1966 (56.9%) and the Dismissal election of 1975 (55.7%), but better than John Howard’s in 1996 (53.6%) and Tony Abbott’s in 2013 (53.5%). The Coalition managed 94 seats in a slightly smaller House of Representatives of 148 (compared to 150 at the 2025 election) in 1996. Labor might also land on 94 this time, once the counting is done.

    For Labor, it is a victory on a scale only rivalled – and indeed slightly overshadowed statistically – by John Curtin’s wartime election in 1943, when Labor gained 49 seats in a House of 74. That was two-thirds of the available seats and perhaps 58% of the two-party preferred vote. (The full distribution of preferences only came in later elections). In 2025, Labor is likely to land on just under 63% of the House.

    Big majorities carry their own headaches, as Labor’s factional wrestling of recent days reminds us. But a big loss is a much worse ordeal for the loser.

    First, there is the problem of finding a leader. He, or she, will be selected from depleted ranks. They will often inherit a demoralised party that will lack belief in its ability to return to office in a single term – allowing that there has been no one-termer in Australian federal politics since the Scullin government (1929-32).

    Sussan Ley, the new Liberal leader, will realise – or should realise – that as a leader elected following such a defeat, her chances of ever making it to the prime ministership are slim.

    Since the second world war, a new leader chosen after a loss of office has never become prime minister. Peter Dutton, who became opposition leader in 2022, joined Billy Snedden (after 1972), Kim Beazley (1996), Brendan Nelson (2007) and Bill Shorten (2013) as those who never went on to lead the country.

    But any leader who slips into the role – either re-elected or for the first time – after a big loss is a long shot to make it. The best example we have from the postwar era is Gough Whitlam, elected leader in February 1967 after one of the biggest landslides in Australian political history, won by Harold Holt at the 1966 election. It is therefore worth revisiting what he did to get there.

    Whitlam biographers such as Graham Freudenberg and Jenny Hocking have offered us a detailed picture of Whitlam’s systematic work on reforming the party and policy as part of his pitch to the people. The Liberals could do worse than think in those terms as they contemplate their rebuild. They have vast work to do on all of those fronts.

    As a party, Labor was a basketcase in 1967. In Victoria, it was dominated by a group of left-wing unionists and members who seemed more concerned with maintaining ideological purity than winning elections. Whitlam taunted them at the state conference in 1967 that “certainly, the impotent are pure”.

    But between 1967 and 1972, Whitlam and his allies – some of them on the left outside Victoria – modernised the party’s structures and rules, and moderated left-wing domination of the Victorian branch. Alongside these reforms came a comprehensive policy overhaul – the formulation of what Whitlam reverentially called “The Program” – drawing on a vast network of experts across the country and the most compelling models from other countries.

    This was paired with a redesign of the party’s image that helped it win back a vast number of voters at the 1969 election, culminating in the remarkable, election winning “It’s Time” campaign in 1972.

    It was a six-year effort, and it was far from easy. But it is perhaps the best modern example we have of what a shattered party needs to do to win back office.

    Labor faced similar challenges after 1975 and, although the process was messier, Bob Hawke’s eventual election in March 1983 owed much to a process of reform of Labor party, policy and image led by Bill Hayden between 1977 and 1983. This time, it was the Queensland branch of the party – Hayden’s own – that needed an overhaul, which it received through federal intervention of the kind applied to Victoria a decade before.

    Labor also worked out a Prices and Incomes Accord with the union movement, designed to avoid many of the economic and political problems experienced by Whitlam in government, such as runaway inflation. Hayden, like Whitlam before him, crafted an electable opposition. Hawke, however, reaped the benefit after he replaced Hayden on the eve of the 1983 campaign.

    There are lessons here for the Liberals. First, they can no longer avoid party reform. Their post-election reviews of recent times often read like Gothic tales: indeed, I could recommend the Western Australian one after the 2021 state election only to those with stomachs capable of standing up to slasher movies.

    Second, the 2025 election revealed a Coalition policy wasteland. Some, such as the idea of a nuclear power plants across the country, were daft. Others, like cuts to the fuel excise for a year – coinciding with a decline in petrol prices – were dross. Others again simply made it appear the Coalition was making it up as it went along. It would be hard to conceive of anything further removed from the best examples we have of policy rebuilding by shattered parties.

    Finally, there are the people. Who, exactly, are the Liberals trying to win over? From May 2022, Dutton seemed to have his eye on Labor voters in the outer suburbs, but he did very little that was likely to win them over. He did even less to win over groups who have turned decisively away from the Liberals in recent years, such as women and the young.

    Whatever efforts they made to win over the so-called multicultural communities, such as Chinese-Australian voters, were undone by clumsy messaging from the ministerial ranks about “spies”. In the end, it often seemed that Dutton – and possibly also most of the survivors of 2022 – didn’t have their hearts in appealing to the kinds of voters who had turned to the teals, Labor and Greens in 2022. They preferred to commune with their own.

    The impotent are still pure: the Liberals emerge from the 2025 campaign unsullied by a dalliance with strangers. They now have their reward. Whether a party organisation with branches dominated by the ideologue, the conservative, the elderly and the eccentric can act as an instrument for forging a new electoral alliance of the kind that set up the party in the 1940s for decades of success must be considered doubtful. There is no Robert Menzies on the horizon. And there is no Liberal movement speaking a language of progress rather than reaction.

    This is the greatest crisis faced by Australia’s centre right since 1943 – and we can be certain that, unlike Ben Chifley, Anthony Albanese won’t do his opponents the favour of trying to nationalise the banks.

    Frank Bongiorno does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    ref. Political parties can recover after a devastating election loss. But the Liberals will need to think differently – https://theconversation.com/political-parties-can-recover-after-a-devastating-election-loss-but-the-liberals-will-need-to-think-differently-232695

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI China: UN eyes reform to modernize itself ahead of 80th anniversary

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

    The United Nations General Assembly convened an informal plenary meeting on Monday to hear a briefing from Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on the UN80 Initiative, a wide-ranging reform effort launched as the UN approaches its 80th anniversary of founding.

    The UN80 Initiative, introduced in March, aims to modernize the operations of the 193-member body. The reform focuses on identifying efficiencies and improvements within existing frameworks, reviewing how member states’ requests are carried out, and exploring changes to the agency’s structure, said Guterres.

    The changes are expected to yield “meaningful reductions” in the overall budget, said Guterres. The departments for political and peacekeeping affairs could see a 20 percent reduction in staff by eliminating duplication, according to UN.

    The financial strain on the organization is already apparent. As of May, just 1.8 billion U.S. dollars of the 3.5 billion dollars in regular budget assessments for 2025 has been received, which represents a shortfall of roughly 50 percent, according to data from the Fifth Committee of the UNGA.

    Fu Cong, China’s permanent representative to the UN, said his expectation of this reform initiative is to advance institutional renewal and efficiency enhancement. “This is a task of great importance, and the Secretary-General must exercise strict oversight. China hopes the reform will deliver concrete results.”

    “As the world enters a new period of turbulent transformation marked by rising unilateralism and multiplying global challenges, the role of the United Nations must be reinforced, not diminished,” Fu said.

    It is essential to uphold the authority and status of the United Nations, he said. He added that reform must strengthen rather than weaken the organization.

    “The more complex and volatile the international situation becomes, the more important it is to support the UN in playing its central role and to safeguard the international system with the UN at its core. This must remain the fundamental direction and ultimate goal of the reform, and should be firmly upheld,” the Chinese envoy said.

    “A more streamlined, efficient, responsive, financially accountable, and influential United Nations is in the interest of all parties,” he said.

    As reform concerns the interests of all member states, “it is imperative to enhance transparency, strengthen consultation with member states, build the broadest possible consensus, conduct comprehensive and prudent evaluations, and make responsible decisions,” he added.

    “Reform must not be used as an excuse for the UN to do less or even nothing, nor should it become a justification for certain countries to shirk their financial obligations,” Fu emphasized.

    He stressed that the legitimate interests of developing countries must be fully safeguarded. Their representation and voice must be effectively enhanced. “This is key to the success of the reform,” he said.

    “It is unacceptable for the interests of a few countries to override those of other member states, or for the legitimate rights and interests of the vast number of developing countries to be sacrificed to meet the demands of a minority,” he said.

    Guterres and his predecessors have faced challenges in trying to reform the organization over the past decades. The UN has been criticized for heavy bureaucracy, slow decision-making, and fragmented coordination among agencies. The UN is also heavily dependent on voluntary contributions from member states, which leads to unpredictable funding.

    Abbas Kadhom Obaid, permanent representative of Iraq to the UN, speaking at Monday’s meeting on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, expressed “deep concern” over the dire liquidity situation of the UN.

    He noted that “one single member state, which is also the only beneficiary of the maximum ceiling on the scale of assessments, continues to be responsible for more than 90 percent of arrears to the regular budget.”

    Obaid pointed out that any proposal aimed at achieving efficiencies by reducing duplications and redundancies across the UN system “should not aim at dismantling UN agencies and funds, to the detriment of due support to member states.”

    “We emphasize that any reforms foreseen under this initiative must preserve, first and foremost, the multilateral and inclusive nature of the United Nations, while also avoiding strategy-driven models that may ultimately compromise the effectiveness of our organization, particularly with regard to the implementation of its multiple mandates approved by member states,” he said.

    He added that for small states, a strong and effective multilateral system, underpinned by respect for the UN Charter and international law, is not an option but an existential necessity.

    Burhan Gafoor, permanent representative of Singapore to the UN, speaking on behalf of the Small States Group (SSG), said the world is witnessing a period of geopolitical tension, economic fragmentation and rising nationalism. “We are deeply concerned by the erosion of respect for international law and by efforts to reverse economic integration and globalization,” he said.

    The UN is facing a significant budget shortfall as the United States and other donors scale back humanitarian aid and multilateral funding. U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2026 includes deep cuts to foreign aid, with signals that U.S. contributions to the UN system could be nearly eliminated.

    Richard Gowan, UN Director at the International Crisis Group, warned in April that the UN may face a 20 percent budget reduction in 2026 due to donor cuts and unpaid member contributions, The New York Times reported.

    In February, Trump signed an executive order calling for a review of U.S. engagement with the UN and withdrew from agencies focused on human rights, reproductive health, climate change, and global health. Other UN donors, including the United Kingdom, are also reducing humanitarian spending.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-Evening Report: In Indonesia, Albanese has a chance to reset a relationship held back by anxiety and misperceptions

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hangga Fathana, Assistant Professor of International Relations, Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII) Yogyakarta

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has wasted little time taking his first overseas trip since Labor won a historic victory in Australia’s federal election. He’ll head to Indonesia today to meet the country’s new president, Prabowo Subianto.

    With both nations entering new political chapters, the visit carries symbolic weight. But it will also have practical importance.

    Despite the two nations’ proximity and strengths, the relationship has often been held back by outdated perceptions and strategic hesitation. This is a timely opportunity to reset the relationship.

    Prabowo’s emerging foreign policy

    Prabowo succeeded outgoing President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo in October after a decade of his infrastructure-driven and globally engaged leadership.

    Prabowo, a former army general and defence minister, had projected a populist and nationalist image during his 2024 election campaign. He frequently emphasised Indonesia’s food self-sufficiency, military strength and national sovereignty.

    Since taking office, however, he has moderated his tone. While seen by some in the West as assertive, he has signalled a willingness to strengthen bilateral defence ties with Australia. He also has an interest in modernising Indonesia’s military and engaging more transparently with partners.

    Still, questions remain about how he will shape Indonesia’s foreign policy. This includes whether he will maintain Jokowi’s emphasis on multilateralism and economic diplomacy. Both are key to the tone and outcomes of Albanese’s visit.

    Prabowo’s leadership style is nuanced. Despite his polarising image, Indonesia’s foreign policy is still shaped by pragmatism and non-alignment. As such, Prabowo will likely focus on balancing relations with China, the United States and Russia, while protecting Indonesia’s sovereignty.

    Indonesia’s decision to join BRICS, the economic group that includes both China and Russia, for example, should be seen as a diplomatic hedge, not a new geopolitical alignment.

    Other recent decisions, such as providing aid to Fiji, suggest an increasingly outward-facing regional posture.

    Albanese should offer Prabowo credible alternatives to Russian and Chinese engagement through trade, technology and education exchanges, rather than reacting to Jakarta’s moves with suspicion.

    Opportunities for cooperation

    In his election campaign, Albanese reaffirmed his government’s commitment to working closely with Southeast Asia. He also promised a foreign policy grounded in diplomacy, climate cooperation and economic diversification.

    This provides a strong incentive for both leaders to deepen ties. For Australia, deepening ties with Indonesia supports its Indo-Pacific strategy. The goal: promoting a stable and inclusive regional order, particularly amid concerns over growing strategic competition between the US and China.

    For Indonesia, Australia offers investment, education partnerships, and critical expertise in clean energy and innovation.

    A free-trade agreement signed in 2019 provides a platform for deeper integration and less competition in certain industries.

    For example, there are huge opportunities to collaborate in clean energy, particularly after the neighbours signed a climate partnership last year. The agreement will secure supplies of lithium for Indonesia’s EV battery production, while Australia will gain more export markets for its critical minerals.

    People-to-people ties are also vital, while education remains a longstanding pillar of the bilateral relationship.

    Both countries face skills shortages in key sectors. Indonesia needs skilled workers in health care, clean technology and digital literacy. Australia has shortages in critical infrastructure, aged care and engineering.

    There are good opportunities here for student exchanges, joint employment training programs and other vocational collaborations.

    New Australian university campuses in Indonesia are a positive step, but they remain commercially focused and concentrated in elite, urban areas. With over 4,000 universities across the archipelago, these partnerships could go much further.

    Where tensions might arise

    The relationship is not without friction. Australia’s involvement in the AUKUS agreement, and its close alignment with the United States and United Kingdom, has raised concerns for Indonesia, which has long championed non-alignment.

    Jakarta has voiced unease over the perceived risks of nuclear submarine proliferation in the region.

    Albanese’s visit is a key opportunity to clarify that AUKUS involves nuclear-powered — not nuclear-armed — submarines. He should also reinforce Australia’s commitment to transparency over the deal. This is essential to avoiding misunderstandings and building trust.

    A more recent flashpoint is speculation around a possible Russian military presence in Indonesia — a claim the Indonesian government has firmly denied.

    Indonesia’s response exemplifies its longstanding commitment to strategic autonomy. However, the whole ordeal reveals the complexity of Jakarta’s foreign relations, which often involve balancing ties with competing powers.

    For Australia, acknowledging Indonesia’s independent foreign policy — rather than interpreting it through a great-power rivalry lens — is critical to sustaining mutual trust.

    A chance to re-anchor the relationship

    This moment offers both governments the chance to move beyond symbolic gestures toward a deeper, more inclusive and people-centred partnership.

    Amid global fragmentation, trust is not just desirable — it’s essential. And while differences remain, they are not insurmountable when guided by mutual respect, strategic patience and a commitment to genuine cooperation.

    For Australia, the challenge is to move past strategic anxiety and invest in a resilient, multidimensional relationship with Indonesia. This visit could be the first step in doing just that.

    Hangga Fathana does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    ref. In Indonesia, Albanese has a chance to reset a relationship held back by anxiety and misperceptions – https://theconversation.com/in-indonesia-albanese-has-a-chance-to-reset-a-relationship-held-back-by-anxiety-and-misperceptions-256321

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Peacekeeping Ministerial: Member States rally behind UN peacekeeping in a time of crisis

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    “Complex demands and diminishing resources are testing the limits of the current peacekeeping approaches,” warned Johan Wadephul, Germany’s Minister for Foreign Affairs at the 2025 Peacekeeping Ministerial in Berlin today. UN and Member State representatives met to discuss the future of peacekeeping, calling for reforms to strengthen its effectiveness and efficiency.

    The meeting comes as peacekeeping faces mounting challenges: Conflicts worldwide have reached their highest levels since World War II, becoming increasingly complex and dangerous. Member States responsible for setting peacekeeping mandates have become more divided.

    An investment in peace

    Despite the challenges, “every UN peacekeeping [mission] is a good investment,” said Minister Wadephul. “We want UN blue helmets to remain this instrument of peace protecting millions of civilians and monitoring ceasefires.

    Missions have proven effective in preventing violence before it starts, reducing it during conflicts, and preventing its recurrence once conflicts end. Their presence also directly reduces civilian casualties. Peacekeepers have helped many countries achieve durable peace, including Cambodia, Côte d’Ivoire, El Salvador, Liberia, Namibia, Mozambique, Sierra Leone and Timor-Leste.

    Bigger challenges, fewer resources

    Despite its track record, investment in peacekeeping is declining. Currently, just over 70,000 civilian, military and police peacekeepers are working to advance peace in 11 operations globally, serving countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Lebanon, and Cyprus. In comparison, the city of Berlin alone has a police force of 26,000.

    Peacekeeping’s current US$5.6 billion budget is roughly half what it was a decade ago. It represents just 0.5% of global military spending.

    This funding comes from all UN Member States, with wealthier countries contributing larger shares. Even for the United States – peacekeeping’s largest donor – their assessed contribution of $1.5 billion makes up just 0.2% of their 2024 defence budget.

    Yet many Member States are behind on their payments, owing a total of $2.7 billion and worsening the funding crisis.

    “It is absolutely essential that all Member States meet their financial obligations by paying their contributions in full and on time,” António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations.

    Adapting to a new reality

    UN officials and Member States called for comprehensive reforms to adapt to these realities.

    Tailoring missions to local contexts, creating more focused mandates, increasing local ownership were suggested as ways peacekeeping missions could strengthen operations. Allowing for a more flexible use of resources was raised as critical to helping missions find efficiencies. There were also impassioned calls for stronger political backing for peacekeeping missions, including from the Security Council.

    “We have political divisions impacting everything we are trying to achieve as a team,” said General Birame Diop, Senegal’s Minister of Armed Forces.

    Making peacekeeping fit for the future

    Today, the message from UN Member States was clear: for the people peacekeepers serve, it is essential to use limited resources as effectively and efficiently as possible, ensuring missions continue their vital work.

    “The value of peacekeeping is undeniable… but there is always more to do,” said Catherine Pollard, UN Under-Secretary-General for management Strategy, Policy and Compliance.

    Discussions will continue tomorrow, with specialized sessions that will look at how these calls for reform can be concretely met.

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealanders take 3 million overseas trips – Stats NZ media and information release: International travel: March 2025

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    New Zealanders take 3 million overseas trips 14 May 2025 – New Zealand residents arrived back from 3.01 million short-term overseas trips (of less than 12 months) in the March 2025 year, according to data released by Stats NZ today.

    March 2025 is the first annual period to exceed 3 million arrivals by New Zealand-resident travellers since March 2020 (3.05 million), and was up from 2.84 million in the March 2024 year.

    “The number of short-term overseas trips by New Zealand residents climbed 6 percent in the March 2025 year, compared to the year before,” international travel spokesperson Sarah Drake said.

    “The increase was mainly driven by more trips to Australia, as well as Indonesia, China, and Japan.”

    Files:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI China: Full Text: President Xi’s keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC Forum

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

    Full Text: President Xi’s keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC Forum

    BEIJING, May 13 — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday delivered a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC (the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) Forum.

    The following is the full text of the speech:

    Writing a New Chapter in Building

    A China-LAC Community with a Shared Future

    Keynote Address by H.E. Xi Jinping

    President of the People’s Republic of China

    At the Opening Ceremony

    Of the Fourth Ministerial Meeting of the China-CELAC Forum

    Beijing, May 13, 2025

    Your Excellency President Gustavo Petro,

    Your Excellency President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva,

    Your Excellency President Gabriel Boric,

    Your Excellency President Dilma Rousseff,

    Delegates of CELAC Member States,

    Ladies and Gentlemen,

    Friends,

    It gives me great pleasure to meet so many old and new friends from Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) countries in Beijing. On behalf of the Chinese government and people, I extend a warm welcome to you all.

    In 2015, LAC delegates and I attended the opening ceremony of the First Ministerial Meeting of the China-CELAC Forum in Beijing, which marked the launch of the China-CELAC Forum. Ten years on, with dedicated nurturing of both sides, the Forum has grown from a tender sapling into a towering tree. This fills me with deep pride and satisfaction.

    Although China and the LAC region are geographically distant, the bonds of our friendship stretch back through centuries. As early as in the 16th century, Nao de China, or “Ships of China,” laden with friendship, shuttled across the Pacific, marking the dawn of interactions and exchanges between China and the LAC region. From the 1960s onward, as New China established diplomatic ties with some LAC countries, exchanges and cooperation between the two sides became closer and closer. Since the turn of the century and in particular in recent years, China and LAC countries have ushered in a historic era of building a shared future.

    We stand shoulder to shoulder and support each other. China appreciates the long-standing commitment of LAC countries that have diplomatic ties with China to the one-China principle. China firmly supports LAC countries in pursuing development paths suited to their national conditions, safeguarding sovereignty and independence, and opposing external interference. In the 1960s, mass rallies and demonstrations took place across China in support of the Panamanian people’s rightful claim to sovereignty over the Panama Canal. In the 1970s, during the Latin American campaign for 200-nautical-mile maritime rights, China voiced its resolute and unequivocal support for the legitimate demands of developing countries. For 32 consecutive times since 1992, China has consistently voted for the United Nations (U.N.) General Assembly resolutions calling for an end to the U.S. embargo against Cuba.

    We ride the tide of progress together to pursue win-win cooperation. Embracing the trend of economic globalization, China and LAC countries have deepened cooperation in trade, investment, finance, science and technology, infrastructure, and many other fields. Under the framework of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, the two sides have implemented more than 200 infrastructure projects, creating over a million jobs. The China-LAC satellite cooperation program has set a model for high-tech South-South cooperation. The inauguration of Chancay Port in Peru has established a new land-and-sea connectivity link between Asia and Latin America. China has signed free trade agreements with Chile, Peru, Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Nicaragua. Last year, trade between China and LAC countries exceeded US$500 billion for the first time, an increase of over 40 times from the beginning of this century.

    We unite in tough times to conquer challenges through mutual support. China and LAC countries have collaborated on disaster prevention, mitigation and relief and on joint response to hurricanes, earthquakes and other natural disasters. Since 1993, China has dispatched 38 medical teams to the Caribbean. When the pandemic of the century struck, China was among the first to offer assistance to LAC countries, providing over 300 million doses of vaccines and nearly 40 million units of medical supplies and equipment, and sending multiple teams of medical experts. All this helped protect the lives of hundreds of millions across the region.

    We uphold solidarity and coordination and rise to global challenges with resolve. Together, China and LAC countries champion true multilateralism, uphold international fairness and justice, advance global governance reform, and promote multipolarization of the world and greater democracy in international relations. We have worked together to address global challenges like climate change, and advance progress in global biodiversity governance. China and Brazil jointly issued a six-point common understanding on the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis, which has been endorsed by more than 110 countries, contributing our wisdom and strength to resolving international hotspot issues.

    Facts have shown that China and LAC countries are advancing hand in hand as a community with a shared future. This community of ours is founded upon equality, powered by mutual benefit and win-win, invigorated by openness and inclusiveness, and dedicated to the people’s well-being. It exhibits enduring vitality and holds immense promise.

    Distinguished Delegates,

    Friends,

    The century-defining transformation is accelerating across the globe, with multiple risks compounding one another. Such developments make unity and cooperation among nations indispensable for safeguarding global peace and stability and for promoting global development and prosperity. There are no winners in tariff wars or trade wars. Bullying or hegemonism only leads to self-isolation. China and LAC countries are important members of the Global South. Independence and autonomy are our glorious tradition. Development and revitalization are our inherent right. And fairness and justice are our common pursuit. In the face of seething undercurrents of geopolitical and bloc confrontation and the surging tide of unilateralism and protectionism, China stands ready to join hands with our LAC partners to launch five programs that advance our shared development and revitalization, and contribute to a China-LAC community with a shared future.

    The first is Solidarity Program. China will work with LAC countries to support each other on issues bearing on our respective core interests and major concerns. We must enhance exchanges in all fields, and strengthen communication and coordination on major international and regional issues. In the next three years, to facilitate our exchanges on national governance best practices, China will invite 300 members from political parties of CELAC member states every year to visit China. China supports the efforts by LAC countries in increasing their influence on the multilateral stage. We will work with LAC countries to firmly safeguard the international system with the U.N. at its core and the international order underpinned by international law, and to speak with one voice in international and regional affairs.

    The second is Development Program. China will work with LAC countries to implement the Global Development Initiative. We will resolutely uphold the multilateral trading system, ensure stable, unimpeded global industrial and supply chains, and promote an international environment of openness and cooperation. We should foster greater synergy between our development strategies, expand high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and bolster cooperation in traditional areas such as infrastructure, agriculture and food, and energy and minerals. We should expand cooperation in emerging areas such as clean energy, 5G telecommunications, the digital economy and artificial intelligence, and carry out the China-LAC Science and Technology Partnership. China will increase imports of quality products from LAC countries, and encourage its enterprises to expand investment in the LAC region. We will provide a RMB66 billion yuan credit line to support LAC countries’ development.

    The third is Civilization Program. China will work with LAC countries to implement the Global Civilization Initiative. We should uphold the vision of equality, mutual learning, dialogue, and inclusiveness between civilizations, and champion humanity’s common values of peace, development, fairness, justice, democracy, and freedom. We should enhance China-LAC civilizational exchanges and mutual learning, including through a conference on China-LAC inter-civilizational dialogue. We should deepen cultural and artistic exchanges and cooperation, and hold the Latin American and Caribbean Arts Season. We should strengthen exchanges and cooperation in cultural heritage fields such as joint archaeological projects, conservation and restoration of ancient and historic sites, and museum exhibitions. We should also carry out collaborative studies of ancient civilizations and enhance cooperation to combat illicit trafficking of cultural property.

    The fourth is Peace Program. China will work with LAC countries to implement the Global Security Initiative. China supports the Proclamation of Latin America and the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace and the Declaration of Member States of the Agency for the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in Latin America and the Caribbean. The two sides should cooperate more closely in disaster governance, cybersecurity, counterterrorism, anti-corruption, narcotics control and combating transnational organized crime so as to safeguard security and stability in the region. China will organize law enforcement training programs tailored to the needs of CELAC member states, and do our best to provide equipment assistance.

    The fifth is People-to-People Connectivity Program. In the next three years, China will provide CELAC member states with 3,500 government scholarships, 10,000 training opportunities in China, 500 International Chinese Language Teachers Scholarships, 300 training opportunities for poverty reduction professionals, and 1,000 funded placements through the Chinese Bridge program. We will initiate 300 “small and beautiful” livelihood projects, actively promote vocational education cooperation programs such as Luban Workshop, and support CELAC member states in developing Chinese language education. We will also launch an exhibition of Chinese films and TV programs under The Bond, and work with LAC countries to translate and introduce 10 premium TV dramas and audiovisual programs annually to each other. China will host the China-LAC tourism dialogue with LAC countries. To facilitate friendly exchanges, China has decided to implement a visa exemption for five LAC countries as the first step, and will expand this policy coverage at proper times.

    Distinguished Delegates,

    Friends,

    As an 11th-century Chinese poet wrote, “Life’s greatest joy comes from finding kindred spirits.” Latin America has a similar proverb which goes, “The one who has a friend has a treasure.” No matter how the world changes, China will always stand by LAC countries as a good friend and a good partner. Let us march forward together on our paths toward modernization, working together to write a new chapter in building a China-LAC community with a shared future.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: New Zealanders take 3 million overseas trips – Stats NZ media and information release: International travel: March 2025

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    New Zealanders take 3 million overseas trips14 May 2025 – New Zealand residents arrived back from 3.01 million short-term overseas trips (of less than 12 months) in the March 2025 year, according to data released by Stats NZ today.

    March 2025 is the first annual period to exceed 3 million arrivals by New Zealand-resident travellers since March 2020 (3.05 million), and was up from 2.84 million in the March 2024 year.

    “The number of short-term overseas trips by New Zealand residents climbed 6 percent in the March 2025 year, compared to the year before,” international travel spokesperson Sarah Drake said.

    “The increase was mainly driven by more trips to Australia, as well as Indonesia, China, and Japan.”

    Files:

     

    MIL OSI

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Shortsighted ‘America First’ Policy Will Accelerate US Decline: Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Moscow, May 13 /Xinhua/ — The U.S. administration’s short-sighted “America First” policy will not only fail to achieve its stated goal of “making America great again,” but will also lead the country into stagflation and accelerate its decline, Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui said in an opinion piece published in the Russian newspaper Argumenty i Fakty on Tuesday.

    “The US economy has been exposed to stagflation risks for a long time, which has caused serious concern both domestically and in the international community,” the publication says.

    As Zhang Hanhui noted, stagflation in the United States is accompanied by high inflation, a deteriorating labor market, a decline in consumer activity, and a reduction in investment. The article emphasizes that the tariff war will further worsen the country’s economic downturn.

    A Chinese diplomat likens trade protectionism to a boomerang: the more aggressively it is used, the more negative consequences are felt. “Ultimately, the U.S. tariff policy will cause the greatest damage to the American economy itself,” he points out, adding that abrupt and ill-considered changes in government policy have seriously undermined economic expectations in the country.

    All this, according to the author of the article, causes concern and disorientation regarding the prospects of the American economy.

    Zhang Hanhui is confident that the “America First” policy will lead the United States to isolation. “Basically, tariffs are used as a tool to test the loyalty of other countries, acting through a system of threats and punishments. However, as practice shows, in the modern world, pressure and coercion do not bring the desired results. Instead, such actions only push other countries to unite in opposition to American hegemony,” the ambassador explains.

    At the same time, he assured that China is determined to withstand the tariff war with the United States to the bitter end. According to him, despite the eight-year-long Sino-American trade war, the scale of China’s foreign trade continues to grow, having increased from 30 trillion to 43 trillion yuan. In addition, the number of China’s foreign trade partners is also increasing. Zhang Hanhui cites data according to which in 2024, China’s trade volume with countries participating in the Belt and Road initiative increased by 6.4 percent, and the share of new markets, including ASEAN countries, in China’s foreign trade amounted to almost 60 percent. Meanwhile, the share of China’s exports to the United States decreased from about 19.2 percent in 2018 to 14.7 percent in 2024.

    As Zhang Hanhui emphasizes, no matter how unpredictable and reckless the US acts, China will continue to confidently follow its own path, consistently promoting the policy of opening up and supporting the construction of an open world economy.

    “History has repeatedly proven that trade protectionism does not contribute to the improvement of one’s own economy, but on the contrary, seriously undermines the world trading system, provokes global economic crises and ultimately harms both others and oneself. Ignoring the lessons of history inevitably leads to negative consequences,” the article says.

    The Ambassador confirmed China’s readiness to strengthen solidarity and mutually beneficial cooperation with Russia and with all countries that adhere to the principles of honesty and fairness.

    “We will jointly implement multilateralism, promote the improvement of the global governance system, and build a community with a shared future for mankind, so as to make greater contributions to improving the well-being of the peoples of China and Russia, as well as safeguarding world peace and development,” Zhang Hanhui concluded. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • Markets decline over 1% on profit booking after record rally

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian stock markets declined on Tuesday as investors opted to book profits following a sharp rally in the previous session. Concerns over the progress of US-China trade talks also contributed to the cautious sentiment, pulling down the benchmark indices after their best performance in over four years.

    The BSE Sensex closed 1,281.68 points, or 1.5 per cent, lower at 81,148.22. The NSE Nifty also slipped, ending the day at 24,578.35, down 346.35 points or 1.39 per cent. The correction came a day after markets soared nearly 4 per cent on easing geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan. Analysts noted that much of Monday’s gains were driven by short covering, leading to profit booking on Tuesday.

    Despite the weakness in headline indices, broader market indices managed to hold firm. The BSE Midcap index edged up 0.17 per cent, while the BSE Smallcap index rose 0.99 per cent, suggesting some resilience in mid- and small-cap stocks.

    Sectoral performance, however, was mixed. Major indices such as Nifty Auto, Financial Services, FMCG, and IT ended with losses of over 1 per cent. Other segments including Nifty Bank, Metal, Oil and Gas, Realty, and Consumer Durables also ended lower. In contrast, indices tracking PSU banks, media, pharma, and healthcare sectors posted gains, with the Nifty PSU Bank index rising as much as 1.66 per cent.

    Among the Sensex constituents, Infosys was the top laggard, falling 3.57 per cent. Eternal, Power Grid, HCL Technologies and TCS also registered losses ranging between 2.88 per cent and 3.4 per cent. On the other hand, Sun Pharmaceutical, Adani Ports, Bajaj Finance, State Bank of India and Tech Mahindra closed with modest gains of up to 1 per cent.

    Market volatility eased slightly, with the India VIX dipping 1.05 per cent to 18.20. Analysts noted that geopolitical uncertainties remained on investors’ radar, with the fragile ceasefire between India and Pakistan keeping participants cautious.

    “Geopolitical tensions remained in focus as market participants monitored the fragile ceasefire between India and Pakistan, adding to the cautious sentiment,” said Sundar Kewat of Ashika Institutional Equity.

    Ajit Mishra, SVP at Religare Broking Ltd, said the decline reflected a sense of caution despite stable global cues and easing regional tensions. “However, we expect the overall tone to remain positive, given the noticeable support in the 24,400–24,600 zone. The focus should remain on identifying key sectors and themes showing relative strength and using intermediate pauses to accumulate quality stocks,” he added.

    — IANS

  • IWAI opens office in Srinagar, launches river navigation projects in Jammu and Kashmir

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), functioning under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, has established a new office in Srinagar as part of efforts to boost inland water transport infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir. The office, located at Transport Bhawan in Srinagar, has been provided by the Jammu and Kashmir government and became operational on Tuesday.
     
    The Srinagar office will serve as the central hub for IWAI’s activities in the Union Territory, overseeing the development of river navigation infrastructure across the region. To this end, the Authority has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Jammu and Kashmir administration to undertake projects across three declared national waterways—NW-26 (River Chenab), NW-49 (River Jhelum), and NW-84 (River Ravi).
     
    Development works planned under the agreement include the installation of floating jetties at ten locations across the Union Territory, dredging of riverbeds to create navigable fairways, provision of night navigation aids, and the conduct of regular hydrographic surveys to ensure safe vessel movement.
     
    The initiative is part of a broader national strategy to tap into the potential of inland waterways as a sustainable mode of transport and economic driver. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, IWAI has been implementing various projects to enhance inland navigation across India.
     
    Officials said that the collaboration between IWAI and the Jammu and Kashmir administration is expected to open up new avenues for eco-tourism and economic development in the region by improving connectivity and reducing logistical costs.
  • Pakistani official declared persona non grata, told to leave India within 24 hours

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India on Tuesday declared a Pakistani official posted at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi as persona non grata and directed him to leave the country within 24 hours. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the official was found to be involved in activities “not in keeping with his official status.”
     
    In a brief statement, the MEA confirmed that a demarche had been issued to the Charge d’Affaires of the Pakistan High Commission. “The Government of India has declared a Pakistani official, working at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, persona non grata for indulging in activities not in keeping with his official status in India. The official has been asked to leave India within 24 hours,” the statement read.
     
    The expulsion of the Pakistani official comes close on the heels of diplomatic and military tensions following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam last month that claimed the lives of 26 civilians. In the aftermath of the attack, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) announced a series of measures, including declaring Defence, Naval, and Air Advisors at the Pakistani High Commission persona non grata.
  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Statement on the Passing of Kit Bond

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement today regarding the passing of former U.S. Senator for Missouri, Christopher “Kit” Bond:
    “Elaine and I were saddened to learn of the passing of our good friend, Kit Bond. Over four terms together in the Senate, I had a front row seat as one of the Senate’s most relentless and effective legislators built coalitions and made a difference – from agricultural innovation to intelligence oversight. Kit wore his devotion to his fellow Missourians on his sleeve, and made no secret of his belief in the importance of American leadership abroad.
    “I will miss Kit’s uncompromising advocacy for investment in America’s military strength and engagement with allies and partners in critical regions. Considering the challenges we face today, his longtime focus on southeast Asia was prescient.
    “But most of all, Elaine and I will miss Kit’s warm friendship. And today, our prayers and deepest sympathies are with Kit’s wife, Linda, his son, Sam, and his entire family as they say farewell to a great and good man.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Carbon Streaming Announces Financial Results for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Carbon Streaming Corporation (Cboe CA: NETZ) (OTCQB: OFSTF) (FSE: M2Q) (“Carbon Streaming” or the “Company”) today reported its financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2025. All figures are expressed in United States dollars, unless otherwise indicated.

    Carbon Streaming Chief Executive Officer Marin Katusa stated: “In the first quarter of 2025, Carbon Streaming made significant progress in reducing costs and improving financial sustainability, while continuing to evaluate strategic alternatives. Ongoing operating expenses have decreased substantially compared to prior years, and by May 2025, the number of individuals at the Company receiving a full-time salary was reduced to three. While we continue to pursue cost reductions, our priority in 2025 is to maximize value from our existing portfolio while exploring all strategic options to enhance shareholder value. More specifically, we will evaluate potential acquisitions, divestments, corporate transactions, and strategic partnerships. Although the voluntary carbon market continues to face challenging conditions and broader economic uncertainties persist, we remain committed to adapting to market realities and identifying the best path forward for our shareholders. In line with this commitment to shareholders, we have recently filed a statement of claim against certain former executives, board members, consultants, and associated entities in order to hold the defendants to account for actions that have caused financial harm to the Company, as outlined in the lawsuit. And with respect to the Rimba Raya, Magdalena Bay, and Sustainable Community Streams, the Company remains focused on protecting our investments and preserving our rights — as we will with all our investments.”

    Quarterly Highlights

    • Ended the year with $36.4 million in cash and no corporate debt. During the quarter, the Company converted $18.0 million in cash from US$ to C$ at an exchange rate of 1.42 C$ for every 1.00 US$. The Company continues to earn interest income on its cash.
    • Reduced the number of individuals receiving full-time salaries at the Company – including employees, consultants, and directors – from 24 at the start of 2024 to 3 full-time employees by May 2025, resulting in significant savings in ongoing operating expenses. The Chief Executive Officer is not collecting a salary, the Chief Financial Officer is receiving a part-time salary, and the Company has eliminated cash-settled director’s fees to its board of directors (“Board”).
    • Recognized a net gain on revaluation of carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements of $49 thousand (net loss on revaluation of $33.1 million for Q1 2024). The net gain on revaluation for the current period was primarily related to changes to the risk-adjusted discount rate and accretion due to the passage of time.
    • Building on the success of the previously-announced ongoing corporate restructuring plan, the Company has significantly reduced ongoing operating expenses and is continuing to review its existing streams and royalties.
    • Generated $2 thousand in settlements from carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements (settlements of $406 thousand during Q1 2024).
    • Operating loss of $1.4 million (operating loss of $36.6 million in Q1 2024).
    • Recognized net loss of $0.8 million (net loss of $35.8 million in Q1 2024).
    • Adjusted net loss was $0.5 million (adjusted net loss of $1.6 million in Q1 2024) (see the “Non-IFRS Accounting Standards Measures” section of this news release).
    • Paid $164 thousand in upfront deposits for carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements (paid $400 thousand in upfront deposits in Q1 2024).
    • In April 2025, the Company announced that it had filed a lawsuit in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice against several former executives, directors, consultants, and associated entities. Please refer to the Company’s news release titled “Carbon Streaming Announces Filing of Claim Against Former Executives and Consultants” for further information.

    Financial Highlights Summary

      Three months ended
    March 31, 2025
    Three months ended
    March 31, 2024
    Carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements    
    Revaluation of carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements $ 49   $ (33,136 )
    Settlements from carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements1   2     406  
    Other financial highlights    
    Other operating expenses   1,401     3,709  
    Operating loss   (1,351 )   (36,756 )
    Net loss   (822 )   (35,771 )
    Loss per share (Basis and Diluted) ($/share)   (0.02 )   (0.75 )
    Adjusted net loss2   (508 )   (1,596 )
    Adjusted net loss per share (Basic and Diluted) ($/share)2   (0.01 )   (0.03 )
    Statement of financial position    
    Cash3   36,444     49,008  
    Carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements3   9,292     26,980  
    Total assets3   47,098     81,596  
    Non-current liabilities3   47     1,059  
     
    1. Relates to the net cash proceeds generated from the Company’s carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements.
    2. “Adjusted net loss”, including per share amounts, is a non-IFRS® Accounting Standards (the “IFRS Accounting Standards”) financial performance measure that is used in this news release. This measure does not have any standardized meaning under the IFRS Accounting Standards and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. For more information about this measure, why it is used by the Company, and a reconciliation to the most directly comparable measure under the IFRS Accounting Standards, see the “Non-IFRS Accounting Standards Measures” section of this news release.
    3. Cash, carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements, total assets and non-current liabilities are presented as at the relevant tabular reporting date.
     

    Portfolio Updates

    Nalgonda Rice Farming Stream: The project was registered with Verra on February 10, 2025, using the UNFCCC Clean Development Mechanism Methodology AMS-III.AU: Methane emission reduction by adjusted water management practice in rice cultivation in the VCS program (“AMS-III.AU”). Registration and first validation of the project was delayed when Verra temporarily inactivated AMS-III.AU as part of a broader review of validation and verification quality and began developing a revised rice-specific methodology to replace AMS-III.AU. During this review, Verra determined that certain projects identified as having quality issues with validations and/or verifications would remain on hold, but Core CarbonX’s projects, including the Nalgonda Rice Farming project, were approved for registration under AMS-III.AU.

    Verra released the new VCS Methodology VM0051 (Improved Management in Rice Production Systems v1.0) on February 27, 2025, which the project plans to transition to for the second monitoring period. However, the project has already applied the guidelines required under the VCS Methodology VM0051. At this time, it is not known how the transition to the new methodology will impact the project, if at all.

    Sheep Creek Reforestation Stream: In January 2025, the Company received a Notice of Adverse Impact from Mast Reforestation SPV I, LLC (“Mast”) and the parent company of Mast, Droneseed Co. d/b/a Mast Reforestation under the Sheep Creek Reforestation Stream pursuant to which, among other things, Mast advised the Company that the Sheep Creek project has experienced significantly higher than expected mortality rates and that the surviving seedlings had exhibited slower than expected growth rates. As a result, Mast indicated to the Company that it no longer expects to deliver the Company the agreed-upon 286,229 carbon removal credits, referred to as forecast mitigation units (“FMUs”) under the Climate Action Reserve’s Climate Forward program under the Sheep Creek Reforestation Stream, as Mast no longer considers the existing Sheep Creek project plan and budget to be viable. The Company has formally responded to the Notice of Adverse Impact and requested that Mast respond to the Company’s significant concerns regarding, among other things, the timing of the delivery of the Notice of Adverse Impact, and the characterization of the cause of the adverse impact. The Company is continuing to evaluate all legal avenues available under the Sheep Creek Reforestation Stream. As a result, the Company no longer anticipates generating cash flow from the Sheep Creek Reforestation Stream, and its fair value is $nil as of March 31, 2025.

    Baccala Ranch Reforestation Stream: In March 2025, Mast delivered the Company a notice of termination of the Baccala Ranch Reforestation Stream and the Baccala Ranch project, thereby confirming it will forego any plantings. The Company had not advanced any funds for the Baccala project and the closing of the Baccala Ranch Reforestation Stream remained subject to customary closing conditions.

    Enfield Biochar Stream: In April 2025, Standard Biocarbon Corporation (“Standard Biocarbon”) successfully completed an equity financing resulting in a change of control. In connection with the financing, a new CEO has been appointed to lead Standard Biocarbon through project commissioning.

    Strategy

    Carbon Streaming is currently focused on maximizing value from the existing portfolio of investments and pursuing all options to achieve that goal. During 2024, the Company underwent changes to the Board and management, including the termination of certain consulting contracts, which reduced ongoing cash expenditure and streamlined decision-making. The Company continues to focus on its previously announced evaluation of strategic alternatives with a focus on maximizing value for all shareholders. These alternatives could include acquisitions, divestments, corporate transactions, financings, other strategic partnership opportunities or continuing to operate as a public company.

    The Company’s carbon credit streaming agreements are structured to retain a portion of the cash flows from carbon credit sales, with stream-specific retention varying. Project partners typically receive the balance through ongoing delivery payments under the terms of each agreement. Cash flows are subject to fluctuations based on realized carbon credit prices and agreement terms. As the Company continues to evaluate its strategic direction, it remains focused on optimizing portfolio economics and managing exposure to market volatility.

    Outlook

    Carbon Streaming continues to reposition itself for success and for maximizing shareholder value amid ongoing challenges. In May 2024, as part of its ongoing corporate restructuring first initiated in 2023, the Company announced changes to its senior management and Board after constructive discussions with certain shareholders. The Company continues to evaluate strategic alternatives for the business and remains focused on cash flow optimization through the reduction of operating expenses and a reassessment of its existing streams and royalties. Building on the previous measures implemented by the Company to reduce ongoing operating expenses, further steps have been taken in recent months, including significantly reducing employee headcount, renegotiating and amending vendor agreements to lower costs, eliminating cash-settled director’s fees to the Board and terminating certain consulting contracts. As the Company’s broader strategy continues to evolve, these recent steps are expected to result in significant reductions to annualized ongoing operating expenses when compared to 2024.

    While the Company aims to increase cash flow generation through the sale of carbon credits from several streaming agreements over the next year, there remains ongoing uncertainty regarding the evolving nature of carbon markets, including potential registry delays, project-specific issues, and methodology-related risks, in addition to impacts the industry may face as a result of general economic, political and regulatory conditions. In 2024, the Company recognized a decrease in the fair values of the Rimba Raya Stream, the Magdalena Bay Blue Carbon Stream, the Sustainable Community Stream, and the Sheep Creek Reforestation Stream to $nil as a result of the failure of the respective projects to meet their obligations under the stream agreements and ongoing legal disputes. The Company is actively pursuing all available legal remedies to protect its investments and enforce its contractual rights. Given the multiple ongoing litigation matters, the outcomes remain uncertain and could materially impact the Company’s financial position and strategic direction. Please refer to the “Legal Proceedings” section of the Company’s most recently filed MD&A for further information.

    Given the evolving nature of carbon markets and ongoing legal considerations, Carbon Streaming is focussed on maximizing value from the existing portfolio of investments and pursuing all options to achieve that goal.

    For a comprehensive discussion of the risks, assumptions and uncertainties that could impact the Company’s strategy and outlook, including without limitation, changes in demand for carbon credits and Indonesian developments described herein, investors are urged to review the section of the Company’s most recently filed AIF entitled “Risk Factors” a copy of which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    About Carbon Streaming

    Carbon Streaming’s focus is on projects that generate high-quality carbon credits and have a positive impact on the environment, local communities, and biodiversity, in addition to their carbon reduction or removal potential.

    ON BEHALF OF THE COMPANY:
    Marin Katusa, Chief Executive Officer
    Tel: 365.607.6095
    info@carbonstreaming.com
    www.carbonstreaming.com

    Investor Relations
    investors@carbonstreaming.com

    Media
    media@carbonstreaming.com

    Non-IFRS Accounting Standards Measures

    Adjusted Net Loss and Adjusted Loss Per Share

    The term “adjusted net loss” in this news release is not a standardized financial measure under the IFRS Accounting Standards and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies where similar terminology is used. These non-IFRS Accounting Standards measures should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance, cash flows and financial position as prepared in accordance with the IFRS Accounting Standards. Management believes that these non-IFRS Accounting Standards measures, together with performance measures and measures prepared in accordance with the IFRS Accounting Standards, provide useful information to investors and shareholders in assessing the Company’s liquidity and overall performance.

    Adjusted net loss is calculated as net and comprehensive loss and adjusted for the revaluation of carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements, the revaluation of warrant liabilities, the impairment loss on early deposit interest receivable, the revaluation of derivative liabilities, the revaluation of the convertible note, the impairment loss on investment in associate, the gain on dissolution of associate, and the corporate restructuring which the Company views as having a significant non-cash or non-continuing impact on the Company’s net and comprehensive loss calculation and per share amounts. Adjusted net loss is used by the Company to monitor its results from operations for the period.

    The following table reconciles net and comprehensive loss to adjusted net loss:

      Three months ended
    March 31, 2025
    Three months ended
    March 31, 2024
    Net loss and comprehensive loss $ (822 ) $ (35,771 )
    Adjustment for non-continuing or non-cash settled items:    
    Revaluation of carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements   (49 )   33,136  
    Revaluation of warrant liabilities   (114 )   (334 )
    Litigation and corporate restructuring   477     1,373  
    Adjusted net loss   (508 )   (1,596 )
    Loss per share (Basic and Diluted) ($/share)   (0.02 )   (0.75 )
    Adjusted net loss per share (Basic and Diluted) ($/share)   (0.01 )   (0.03 )
                 

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    This news release contains certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, “forward-looking information”) within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, are forward-looking information, including, without limitation, statements regarding the anticipated impact of changes to the Company’s Board and management; the impact of the Company’s restructuring strategies, including evaluation of strategic alternatives; the ability of the Company to execute on expense reductions and savings from operating cost reduction measures; statements with respect to cash flow optimization and generation; its sales strategy; supporting the Company’s carbon streaming and royalty partners; timing and the amount of future carbon credit generation and emission reductions and removals from the Company’s existing streaming and royalty agreements; statements with respect to the projects in which the Company has streaming and royalty agreements in place; statements with respect to the Company’s growth objectives and potential and its position in the voluntary carbon markets; statements with respect to execution of the Company’s portfolio and partnership strategy; statements regarding the Company holding certain former executives, directors, consultants, and associated entities to account. statements with respect to the ongoing legal process to protect the Company’s investment in the Rimba Raya project and to enforce its legal and contractual rights; and statements regarding the Company’s intention to strictly enforce its legal and contractual rights under the Sustainable Community Stream and the Magdalena Bay Blue Carbon Stream and the Sheep Creek Reforestation Stream.

    When used in this news release, words such as “estimates”, “expects”, “plans”, “anticipates”, “will”, “believes”, “intends” “should”, “could”, “may” and other similar terminology are intended to identify such forward-looking information. This forward-looking information is based on the current expectations or beliefs of the Company based on information currently available to the Company. Forward-looking information is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking information, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, the Company. They should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be an accurate indication of whether or not such results will be achieved. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things: general economic, market and business conditions and global financial conditions, including fluctuations in interest rates, foreign exchange rates and stock market volatility; volatility in prices of carbon credits and demand for carbon credits; change in social or political views towards climate change, carbon credits and environmental, social and governance initiatives and subsequent changes in corporate or government policies or regulations and associated changes in demand for carbon credits; the Company’s expectations and plans with respect to current litigation, arbitration and regulatory proceedings; limited operating history for the Company’s current strategy; concentration risk; inaccurate estimates of project value, which may impact the ability of the Company to execute on its growth and diversification strategy; dependence upon key management; impact of corporate restructurings; the inability of the Company to optimize cash flows or sufficiently reduce operating expenses; reputational risk; risks arising from competition and future acquisition activities failure or timing delays for projects to be registered, validated and ultimately developed and for emission reductions or removals to be verified and carbon credits issued (and other risks associated with carbon credits standards and registries); foreign operations and political risks including actions by governmental authorities, including changes in or to government regulation, taxation and carbon pricing initiatives; uncertainties and ongoing market developments surrounding the validation and verification requirements of the voluntary and/or compliance markets; due diligence risks, including failure of third parties’ reviews, reports and projections to be accurate; dependence on project partners, operators and owners, including failure by such counterparties to make payments or perform their operational or other obligations to the Company in compliance with the terms of contractual arrangements between the Company and such counterparties; failure of projects to generate carbon credits, or natural disasters such as flood or fire which could have a material adverse effect on the ability of any project to generate carbon credits; volatility in the market price of the Company’s common shares or warrants; the effect that the issuance of additional securities by the Company could have on the market price of the Company’s common shares or warrants; global health crises, such as pandemics and epidemics; and the other risks disclosed under the heading “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated as of March 31, 2025 filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Any forward-looking information speaks only as of the date of this news release. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking information are reasonable, forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein. Except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Condor Announces 2025 First Quarter Results and Purchase of Its First LNG Facility

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Condor Energies Inc. (“Condor” or the “Company”) (TSX:CDR), a Canadian based, internationally focused energy transition company focused on Central Asia is pleased to announce the release of its unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2025, together with the related management’s discussion and analysis. These documents will be made available under Condor’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Condor website at www.condorenergies.ca. Readers are invited to review the latest corporate presentation available on the Condor website. All financial amounts in this news release are presented in Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated

    HIGHLIGHTS

    • Production in Uzbekistan for the first quarter of 2025 averaged 11,179 boe/d comprised of 10,819 boe/d (64,917 Mcf/d) of natural gas and 360 bopd of condensate, which is a 6% increase from the average production rate of 10,511 boe/d for the fourth quarter of 2024.
    • Uzbekistan natural gas and condensate sales for the first quarter of 2025 was $22.26 million, which is a 6% increase from sales of $20.93 million for the fourth quarter of 2024.
    • On May 6, 2025, the Company purchased a modular LNG facility (the “First Facility”) capable of producing 48,000 gallons (80 MT) of LNG per day with LNG production planned to commence in the second quarter of 2026.
    • On April 15, 2025, the Company secured its third natural gas allocation in Kazakhstan for LNG feed gas, a portion of which will be allocated to the First Facility.
    • On February 24, 2025, Condor was awarded a second critical minerals mining license in Kazakhstan for a 100% working interest in the exploration rights for mining solid minerals for a six-year term.
    • The Company is finalizing a drilling rig and associated support services contracts to begin a multi-well drilling program in Uzbekistan during the third quarter of 2025 that will target multiple play types to further increase production rates.

    MESSAGE FROM CONDOR’S CEO

    Don Streu, President and CEO of Condor commented: ”We have continued to make significant progress in creating value from a diverse portfolio of first-mover energy initiatives which include our Uzbekistan producing gas fields, Kazakhstan modular LNG development and Kazakhstan critical minerals licenses.

    In Uzbekistan, production and revenue growth of six percent quarter-on-quarter reflects the highly capital efficient and repeatable successes of applying Canadian technologies and learnings to increase natural gas production despite historical natural production declines that exceeded twenty percent annually. Production will be further increased by a vertical, horizontal and multi-lateral well drilling campaign that is scheduled to commence in the third quarter of 2025.

    In Kazakhstan, the purchase of our first modular LNG facility will enable us to initiate Central Asia’s first LNG production by the second quarter of 2026. The three LNG feed gas allocations that Condor has secured thus far will allow us to fabricate and operate several additional LNG facilities to ensure sustainable cash flow growth. These facilities are critical to supporting the fuel needs of Kazakhstan’s rapidly expanding transportation networks.

    Also in Kazakhstan, Condor has now been awarded two critical minerals licenses which grant us subsurface exploration rights for solid minerals, including lithium and copper, and these concessions are located in very close proximity to some of the world’s largest mining companies that are actively exploring in the region.

    Condor has truly assembled a diverse portfolio with a strong foundation for cashflow growth that we are now actively developing to realize material value”.

    Production in Uzbekistan

    The Company operates under a production enhancement services contract with JSC Uzbekneftegaz in Uzbekistan to increase the production, ultimate recovery and overall system efficiency from an integrated cluster of eight conventional natural gas-condensate fields (the “PEC Project”). Production for the first quarter of 2025 averaged 11,179 boe/d comprised of 10,819 boe/d (64,917 Mcf/d) of natural gas and 360 bopd of condensate, which is a 6% increase from the average production rate of 10,511 boe/d for the fourth quarter of 2024. Since assuming operations in March 2024, the Company has flattened the natural production decline rates, which previously exceeded twenty percent annually.

    The Company’s multi-well workover campaign continued during the first quarter of 2025 within the eight gas fields. The highly capital efficient workover activities include perforating newly identified pay intervals, installing proven artificial lift equipment, performing downhole stimulation treatments, and installing new production tubing. Three recent workovers generated a combined production increase of 1,950 boe/d, based upon initial seven-day production rates.

    The Company is finalizing a drilling rig and associated support services contracts to begin a multi-well drilling program in the third quarter of 2025 that will target numerous play types within a diverse prospect inventory. A combination of vertical, horizontal and Uzbekistan’s first multi-lateral wells will penetrate under-developed reservoirs in the existing fields. Wells are planned to be completed with modern stimulation techniques to further increase production rates.

    In the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company commissioned Uzbekistan’s first in-field flowline water separation system which separates water from the gas streams at the field gathering network rather than at the production facility. This reduces pipeline flow pressure that can lead to higher reservoir flow rates. Three additional separation units have since been installed and are being commissioned. The existing pipeline and facilities infrastructure are also being evaluated to optimize water-handling, determine long term field compression requirements, and to enhance in-field gathering networks.

    LNG in Kazakhstan

    Condor is constructing Kazakhstan’s first LNG facilities to produce, distribute, and sell LNG to offset industrial diesel usage in the country. LNG applications include rail locomotives, long-haul truck fleets, marine vessels, mining equipment, municipal bus fleets, and other heavy equipment and machinery with high-horsepower engines. These applications have all successfully used LNG fuel in other countries.

    In May 2025, the Company purchased a modular LNG facility (the “First Facility”) for its Saryozek plant site, capable of producing 48,000 gallons (80 MT) of LNG per day. The purchase price of USD $6.5 million (CAD $9.3 million) is due as to USD $1.6 million (CAD $2.3 million) within ten business days and the remaining payments are due in a combination of time and milestone-based instalments until the First Facility is commissioned. Construction of the First Facility is ongoing, and fabrication works are expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2025. The First Facility and supporting equipment will then be shipped to Saryozek, Kazakhstan for assembly and commissioning with LNG production expected in the second quarter of 2026. The estimated additional cost to complete the First Facility construction and commissioning is USD $18.6 million (CAD $26.7 million). The Company is finalizing LNG off-taker agreements and advancing several financing solutions for the First Facility.

    In April 2025, the Company secured its third natural gas allocation that will provide LNG feed gas for the First Facility. Two additional 48,000 gallon modular LNG facilities are planned to be constructed at the First Facility site to fully utilize the third natural gas allocation.

    Concurrently, engineering design continues for additional modular LNG facilities that will utilize the two other existing natural gas allocations for the Alga and Kuryk sites. The final investment decision for the first Alga site LNG facility is planned for the fourth quarter of 2025 with Alga LNG production of 100,000 gallons (168 MT) of LNG per day planned to commence in the second quarter of 2027. Timing for the first Kuryk site LNG facility, which is targeting 125,000 gallons (210 MT) of LNG per day, is being evaluated. Based on the Company’s three feed gas allocations, the total LNG fuel produced will have an energy-equivalent volume of over 1.5 million litres of diesel daily, while also reducing CO2 emissions by 390,000 MT per year, which is equivalent to removing more than 85,000 cars from the road annually.

    Condor’s modular LNG facilities will be instrumental to supplying a stable, economic and more environmentally friendly fuel source for the Transcaspian International Transport Route (“TITR”) expansion, which is currently the shortest, fastest and most geopolitically secure transit corridor for moving freight between Asia and Europe. The Government of Kazakhstan and Kazakhstan’s national railroad are making significant investments in TITR infrastructure, including expanding the rail network, constructing a new dry port at the Kazakhstan – China border, and increasing the container-handling capacities at various Caspian Sea ports.

    Critical Minerals Licenses in Kazakhstan

    The Company holds a 100% working interest in two contiguous critical minerals mining licenses which provide subsurface exploration rights for solid minerals, including lithium and copper, for respective six-year terms. The 37,300- hectare Sayakbay license was awarded in July 2023 and the nearby 6,800-hectare Kolkuduk license was awarded in February 2025.

    A prior well drilled in the Kolkuduk license territory for hydrocarbon exploration encountered and tested brine deposits with lithium concentrations of up to 130 milligrams per litre as reported by the Ministry of Geology of the Republic of Kazakhstan. A 1,000-meter column of tested and untested brine reservoir has been identified from historical wireline log and core data. At Sayakbay, a prior legacy well drilled for hydrocarbon exploration encountered and tested brine deposits with lithium concentrations of 67 milligrams per litre in Carboniferous-aged intervals as reported by the Ministry of Geology of the Republic of Kazakhstan. A 670-meter column of tested and untested brine reservoir has been identified from historical wireline log and core data. Other critical minerals identified at the Kolkuduk and Sayakbay licenses include rubidium, strontium and cesium.

    The Company is not treating these historical estimates as current mineral resources or mineral reserves as additional drilling and testing is necessary, and a qualified person has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimates as current mineral resources or mineral reserves. It is uncertain if further drilling will result in either area being delineated as a mineral resource or reserve. The historical lithium concentration estimates should not be relied upon as indicative of the actual lithium concentration or the likelihood that the Company will be able to achieve similar production results.

    The initial development plan for Sayakbay includes drilling and testing two wells to verify deliverability rates, confirming the lateral extension and concentrations of lithium in the tested and untested intervals, conducting preliminary engineering for the production facilities, and preparing a mineral resource or mineral reserves report compliant with National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. The initial development plan for the Kolkuduk license acquired in February 2025 has yet to be determined.

    RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

    Production – Uzbekistan      
    Total Production Three months
    ended

    March 31, 2025
    One month
    ended

    March 31, 2024*
    Change
    Volume
     
    Natural gas (Mcf) 5,842,516 2,027,905 3,814,611  
    Natural gas (boe) 973,753 337,984 635,769  
    Condensate (barrels) 32,443 8,190 24,253  
    Total (boe) 1,006,196 346,174 660,022  
           
           
    Per Unit Production Three months
    ended

    March 31, 2025
    One month
    ended

    March 31, 2024*
    Change
    %
     
    Natural gas (Mcf/d) 64,917 65,416 (0.8 %)
    Natural gas (boe/d) 10,819 10,903 (0.8 %)
    Condensate (bopd) 360 264 36.4 %
    Total (boe/d) 11,179 11,167 0.1 %

    * Production commenced on March 1, 2024. Production volumes and per unit calculations stated in Mcf/d, boe/d and bopd for 2024 are for 31 days.


    Operating Netback for Uzbekistan

    Operating netback for Natural Gas 1,2 Natural Gas
    Q1 2025   Q1 2024  
    Sales ($000’s) 19,982   6,566  
    Royalties ($000’s) (3,661 ) (1,203 )
    Production costs ($000’s) (8,692 ) (2,288 )
    Transportation and selling ($000’s) (690 ) (228 )
    Operating netback ($000’s)1,2 6,939   2,847  
         
    Sales volume (Mcf) 5,462,313   1,888,789  
         
    Sales ($/Mcf) 3.66   3.48  
    Royalties ($/Mcf) (0.67 ) (0.64 )
    Production costs ($/Mcf) (1.59 ) (1.21 )
    Transportation and selling ($/Mcf) (0.13 ) (0.12 )
    Operating netback ($/Mcf)1,2 1.27   1.51  
    Operating netback for Condensate 1,2 Condensate
    Q1 2025   Q1 2024  
    Sales ($000’s) 2,280   646  
    Royalties ($000’s) (451 ) (128 )
    Production costs ($000’s) (215 ) (37 )
    Transportation and selling ($000’s) (12 ) (3 )
    Operating netback ($000’s)1,2 1,602   478  
         
    Sales volume (bbl) 32,317   8,187  
         
    Sales ($/bbl) 70.57   78.91  
    Royalties ($/bbl) (13.96 ) (15.63 )
    Production costs ($/bbl) (6.65 ) (4.52 )
    Transportation and selling ($/bbl) (0.39 ) (0.37 )
    Operating netback ($/bbl)1,2 49.57   58.39  

    1   Operating netback is a non-GAAP measure and is a term with no standardized meaning as prescribed by GAAP and may notbe comparable with similar measures presented by other issuers. See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” in thisnews release. Thecalculation of operating netback is aligned with the definition found in the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook.
    2   Amounts and per unit measures are only presented for the Uzbekistan segment.


    NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

    The Company refers to “operating netback” in this news release, a term with no standardized meaning as prescribed by GAAP and which may not be comparable with similar measures presented by other issuers. This additional information should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. Operating netback is calculated as sales less royalties, production costs and transportation and selling on a dollar basis and divided by the sales volume for the period on a per Mcf basis for natural gas and per boe basis for condensate. This non-GAAP measure is commonly used in the oil and gas industry to assist in measuring operating performance against prior periods on a comparable basis and has been presented to provide an additional measure to analyze the Company’s sales on a per unit basis and the Company’s ability to generate funds.

    BARRELS OF OIL EQUIVALENT ADVISORY

    References herein to barrels of oil equivalent (“boe”) are derived by converting gas to oil in the ratio of six thousand standard cubic feet (“Mcf”) of gas to one barrel of oil based on an energy conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. Given the value ratio based on the current price of crude oil as compared to natural gas is significantly different from the energy equivalency of 6 Mcf to 1 barrel, utilizing a conversion ratio at 6 Mcf to 1 barrel may be misleading as an indication of value, particularly if used in isolation.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

    Certain statements in this news release constitute forward-looking statements under applicable securities legislation. Such statements are generally identifiable by the terminology used, such as “expect”, “plan”, “estimate”, “may”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would”, “ongoing”, “project”, “expect”, “intend”, “seek”, “future”, “forecast”, “continue”, or other similar wording. Forward-looking information in this MD&A includes, but is not limited to, information concerning: the timing and ability to execute the Company’s growth and sustainability strategies including the financing for these growth and sustainability strategies; the timing and ability of the Company to finalize a drilling rig and associated support services contracts to begin a multi-well drilling program in Uzbekistan during the third quarter of 2025; the timing and ability of the Company to complete a multi-well drilling program in Uzbekistan with modern stimulation techniques and further increase production rates; the timing and ability to approve the final investment decision for the first Alga LNG facility during the fourth quarter of 2025; the Company’s expectation that Alga LNG production will commence in the second quarter of 2027; the Company’s expectation that the total LNG fuel produced will have an energy-equivalent volume of over 1.5 million litres of diesel daily, while also reducing CO2 emissions by 390,000 MT per year, which is equivalent to removing more than 85,000 cars from the road annually; the timing and ability of the Company to operate and increase production and overall recovery rates at eight gas fields in Uzbekistan; the timing and ability to deliver repeatable, capital efficient production gains from future workovers; the timing and ability of the Company to increase the number of in-field flowline water separation systems; the timing and ability to realize multiple revenue streams that remain robust across varying economic conditions and geo-political priorities; the timing and ability to increase production by implementing artificial lift, workover and drilling programs; the timing and ability to reprocess 3-D seismic data and conduct a 3-D seismic program; the timing and ability for the 3D seismic data to provide higher resolutions, more accurately characterize the reservoirs and identify new targets; the timing and ability of the Company to evaluate existing pipeline and facilities infrastructure for optimization of water handling, field compression and the in-field gathering network; the timing and ability to use the two natural gas allocations for the Alga and Kuryk sites as feed gas for the Company’s planned modular LNG production facilities; the timing and ability to liquefy natural gas to produce LNG; the timing and ability to conduct detailed engineering; the timing and ability to confirm LNG volume commitments with end-users; the Company’s expectations in respect of the future uses of LNG; the timing and ability to acquire, transport and construct modular LNG production facilities; the timing and ability to obtain funding and proceed with construction of modular LNG production facilities; the timing and ability of the Company to commission the First Facility during the second quarter of 2026; the timing and ability of the First Facility to produce 48,000 gallons (80 MT) of LNG per day; the timing and ability to finalize LNG off-taker agreements for the First Facility; the timing and ability of the Company to construct two additional modular LNG facilities capable of producing 48,000 gallons (80 MT) of LNG per day at the First Facility site; the potential for the Sayakbay and Kolkuduk licenses to contain commercial deposits; the timing and ability of the Company to fund, permit and complete planned activities at Sayakbay including drilling two additional wells and conducting preliminary engineering for the production facilities; the timing and ability to optimize the planned method for direct lithium extraction; the timing and ability of the Company to generate a report in compliance with National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects; the timing and ability to commence exploration mining activities to evaluate the potential for commercial lithium brine deposits; projections and timing with respect to natural gas and condensate production; expected markets, prices and costs for future natural gas and condensate sales; the timing and ability to obtain various approvals and conduct the Company’s planned exploration and development activities; the timing and ability to access natural gas pipelines; the timing and ability to access domestic and export sales markets; anticipated capital expenditures; forecasted capital and operating budgets and cashflows; anticipated working capital; sources and availability of financing for potential budgeting shortfalls; the timing and ability to obtain future funding on favourable terms, if at all; the potential for additional contractual work commitments to be significant; the ability to satisfy and fund the contractual work commitments; projections relating to the adequacy of the Company’s provision for taxes; the expected reporting impacts of adopting amendments to IFRS accounting policies; and treatment under governmental regulatory regimes and tax laws.

    This news release also includes forward-looking information regarding health risk management including, but not limited to: travel restrictions including shelter in place orders, curfews and lockdowns which may impact the timing and ability of Company personnel, suppliers and contractors to travel internationally, travel domestically and to access or deliver services, goods and equipment to the fields of operation; the risk of shutting in or reducing production due to travel restrictions, Government orders, crew illness, and the availability of goods, works and essential services for the fields of operations; decreases in the demand for oil and gas; decreases in the prices of natural gas, condensate and crude oil; potential for gas pipeline or sales market interruptions; the risk of changes to foreign currency controls, availability of foreign currencies, availability of hard currency, and currency controls or banking restrictions which restrict or prevent the repatriation of funds from or to foreign jurisdiction in which the Company operates; the Company’s financial condition, results of operations and cash flows; access to capital and borrowings to fund operations and new business projects on terms acceptable to the Company; the timing and ability to meet financial and other reporting deadlines; and the inherent increased risk of information technology failures and cyber-attacks.

    By its very nature, such forward-looking information requires Condor to make assumptions that may not materialize or that may not be accurate including, but not limited to, the assumptions that: the Company will be able to secure necessary drilling rigs, support services, and off-taker agreements in a timely manner; the engineering design and final investment decisions for additional LNG facilities will proceed as planned; the Government of Kazakhstan will continue to invest in infrastructure supporting the TITR expansion; additional drilling and testing will be successful in verifying deliverability rates and confirming mineral concentrations; the Company will be able to fund its initiatives through a combination of cash on hand, increased cashflows, debt or equity financing, asset sales, or other arrangements; the Company will be able to manage liquidity and capital expenditures through budgeting and authorizations for expenditures; the Company will be able to manage health, safety, and operational risks through existing precautions and guidelines; the Company will be able to adapt to changing trade policies, tariffs, and restrictions; and the Company will be able to manage the impact of geopolitical instability and sanctions. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results, levels of activity and achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such information. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: regulatory changes; the timing of regulatory approvals; the risk that actual minimum work programs will exceed the initially estimated amounts; the results of exploration and development drilling and related activities; the risk that prior lithium testing results may not be indicative of future testing results or actual results; imprecision of reserves estimates and ultimate recovery of reserves; the risk that historical production and testing rates may not be indicative of future production rates, capabilities or ultimate recovery; the risk that the historical composition and quality of oil and gas does not accurately predict its future composition and quality; general economic, market and business conditions; industry capacity; uncertainty related to marketing and transportation; competitive action by other companies; fluctuations in oil and natural gas prices; the effects of weather and climate conditions; fluctuation in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates; the ability of suppliers to meet commitments; actions by governmental authorities, including increases in taxes; decisions or approvals of administrative tribunals and the possibility that government policies or laws may change or the possibility that government approvals may be delayed or withheld; changes in environmental and other regulations; risks associated with oil and gas operations, both domestic and international; international political events; and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Condor.

    These risk factors are discussed in greater detail in filings made by Condor with Canadian securities regulatory authorities including the Company’s most recent Annual Information Form, which may be accessed through the SEDAR+ website (www.sedarplus.ca).

    Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of important factors affecting forward-looking information is not exhaustive. The forward-looking information contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and, except as required by applicable law, Condor does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

    ABBREVIATIONS

    The following is a summary of abbreviations used in this news release:

    3-D   Three dimensional
    Mcf   Thousands of standard cubic feet
    Mcf/d   Thousands of standard cubic feet per day
    MMcf   Millions of standard cubic feet
    bbl   Barrels of oil
    bopd   Barrels of oil per day
    boe   Barrels of oil equivalent
    boe/d   Barrels of oil equivalent per day
    MT   Metric tonnes
    LNG   Liquefied Natural Gas
    EV   Electric Vehicle
    Kazakhstan   Republic of Kazakhstan
    Uzbekistan   Republic of Uzbekistan


    The TSX does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

    For further information, please contact Don Streu, President and CEO or Sandy Quilty, Vice President of Finance and CFO at 403-201-9694.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa – Largest number ever of around 200 Japanese companies to participate in the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) Business Expo & Conference

    SOURCE: Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)

    Seeking opportunities in African markets with diverse business contents

    TOKYO, Japan, May 13, 2025 – Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO; Chairman and CEO: ISHIGURO Norihiko; Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo) (www.JETRO.go.jp) is pleased to announce that it will host the TICAD Business Expo & Conference from 20 to 22 August 2025, as one of the Thematic Events of the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9).

    This event will comprise four zones – Japan Fair, Africa Lounge, Event Stage, and Thematic Exhibitions – bringing together diverse content in one venue in a new style of event organisation. A total of 196 Japanese companies and organisations (including 107 small and medium enterprises (SMEs)) will be participating in Japan Fair, the largest number ever, making the TICAD business Expo & Conference the largest-ever Africa-related event to be organised by JETRO.

    Download Exhibitor List: https://apo-opa.co/3F6KiAM

    TICAD9 will be held in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture from 20 to 22 August 2025, led by the Government of Japan and co-hosted by United Nations, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), African Union Commission (AUC) and World Bank. In conjunction with TICAD9, JETRO has planned the TICAD Business Expo & Conference as a new style of business events that brings together diverse exhibits and opportunities for interaction. In order to support the proactive initiatives of Japanese companies to grasp expanding business opportunities in the African market, JETRO has updated its event model from a conventional exhibition to provide a more practical venue for business exchanges.

    Japan Fair aims to create new business opportunities in the African market by introducing excellent products, technologies, and the services of Japanese companies to government officials and business leaders visiting Japan from African countries. The exhibition is comprised of eight thematic zones, based on the African Union’s Agenda 2063, including “Infrastructure,” “Health and Sanitation Improvement,” and “Food Value Chain.” A totally new addition for TICAD9 will be a “Pop Culture” zone.

    Africa Lounge will feature the presentation of investment and business information from African governments for Japanese businesspeople interested in doing business in Africa.

    The Event Stage will feature seminars based on business themes and thematic panel discussions by Japanese companies. JETRO is also planning panel discussions that bring together key persons from the African business community, as well as other pop culture and innovation-themed events.

    At the Thematic Exhibitions JETRO will be showcasing the two themes of “Pop Culture” and “Innovation.” The Pop Culture exhibition will highlight the potential for business development utilising content originating from Japan, and the Innovation exhibition will introduce groundbreaking ideas and technology that promise to open up a new future for Africa and Japan.

    In addition to the record number of exhibiting companies and organisations at Japan Fair, the TICAD Business Expo & Conference will incorporate new approaches to exhibitions and planning, including pop culture and innovation, seeking to invigorate business exchanges with Africa in new and unprecedented ways. The event will bring together diverse stakeholders from Japan and Africa and is expected to create new partnerships and business matching opportunities.

    JETRO will use this event as an opportunity to continue to support Japanese companies in raising their visibility and expanding their businesses in the African market.

    Overview

    TICAD9

    Name: Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9)
    Date: Wednesday 20 – Friday 22 August 2025
    Organiser: Led by the Government of Japan, and co-hosted by the United Nations, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), African Union Commission, and the World Bank
    Location: Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture
    Official website: (English) https://apo-opa.co/4meBrh8
    (Japanese) https://apo-opa.co/4jSsIzF

    TICAD Business Expo & Conference

    Date: Wednesday 20 – Friday 22 August 2025
    Organiser/Co-Organiser: JETRO, Japan Business Council for Africa (JBCA)
    Supported by: Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
    Venue: Pacific Yokohama, Hall B & C (Minato-Mirai 1-1-1, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 220-0012)
    Total area: 10,000 m2  
    Zones: Japan Fair, Africa Lounge, Event Stage, Thematic Exhibitions

    About Japan Fair

    Expected exhibitors: 196 companies and organisations (as of May 13) (excluding duplicates) (including in-booth exhibits)

    *Of the above number, 107 participants are SMEs

    *Participants from 30 Japanese prefectures.
    Yamagata (1), Fukushima (1), Ibaraki (1), Gunma (1), Saitama (2), Chiba (2), Tokyo (111), Kanagawa (18), Niigata (1), Ishikawa (2), Yamanashi (1), Nagano (6), Gifu (1), Shizuoka (2), Aichi (6), Shiga (1), Kyoto (7), Osaka (15), Hyogo (13), Nara (1), Okayama (1), Hiroshima (2), Tokushima (1), Kagawa (2), Ehime (2), Fukuoka (1), Saga (1), Kumamoto (2), Miyazaki (1), Okinawa (2). (Figures in parenthesis indicate number of companies/organisations. Includes companies/organisations with more than one location.)

    *Number of participants by zone:
    Japanese Companies Driving Growth in Africa: 63
    Transforming Infrastructure: 55
    Advancing Healthcare and Sanitation Standards: 24
    Food Value Chain: 23
    Skills for the Future: 14
    Climate Solutions: 14
    Sustainable Urban Development Solutions: 3
    Pop Culture: 2

    Overview and outcomes of Japan-Africa Business Expo held at TICAD7 in 2019

    Date: 28-30 August 2019
    Total area: 6,700 m2
    No. of visitors: Approx. 21,000
    No. of Japan Fair exhibitors: 156 companies/organisations (including 81 SMEs)
    No. of exhibiting countries in Africa Lounge: 45

    Attachment

    List of expected participating companies/organisations  

    About JETRO:
    JETRO is a policy implementation organisation that aims to contribute to the further development of Japan’s economy and society through trade and investment promotion and research on developing countries. With an international and domestic network comprising over 70 overseas offices and approximately 50 domestic operating hubs, including Tokyo Headquarters, JETRO Osaka, the Institute of Developing Economies (IDE) and regional offices, JETRO contributes to Japan’s corporate activities and trade policy through surveys and studies, working agilely and efficiently to support the creation of innovation, exports of agricultural, forestry, and fishery products and foodstuffs, and the overseas expansion of Japanese enterprises.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorneys for Southwestern Border Districts Charge More than 1400 Illegal Aliens with Immigration-Related Crimes During the Second week in May as part of Operation Take Back America

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Since the inauguration of President Trump, the Department of Justice is playing a critical role in Operation Take back America, a nationwide initiative to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    Last week, the U.S. Attorneys for Arizona, Central California, Southern California, New Mexico, Southern Texas, and Western Texas charged more than 1400 defendants with Criminal violations of U.S. immigration laws.

    The Southern District of California filed 176 border-related cases this week, including charges of assault on a federal officer, bringing in aliens for financial gain, reentering the U.S. after deportation, and importation of controlled substances. These included Two complaints which charged five people with participating in a human smuggling event that led to the deaths of at least three migrants, including a 14-year-old boy from India. His 10-year-old sister is still missing at sea and presumed dead; their father is in a coma and mother is also hospitalized.

    The Central District of California filed criminal charges against 34 defendants this week who allegedly were found in the U.S. following removal. Many of the defendants charged were previously convicted of felonies before they were removed from the United States.

    The District of New Mexico charged approximately 300 defendants with border-related crimes, including 91 defendants charged with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326). In addition, 209 individuals charged with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325) were also charged with violation of a military security regulation (50 U.S.C. 797) because they unlawfully entered the National Defense Area in New Mexico.

    The Southern District of Texas filed a total of 300 cases, charging 302 people from May 2-8 in continuing efforts to secure the southern border. As part of the cases, 93 face allegations of illegally reentering the country. The majority have prior felony convictions for narcotics, prior immigration crimes and more. A total of 193 people face charges of illegally entering the country, while 11 cases allege various instances of human smuggling with the remainder involving other immigration-related crimes.

    The Western District of Texas filed 316 new immigration and immigration-related criminal cases from May 2 through May 8. Among the new cases, Cirilo Delgado-Alderete, Dilan Karim Valenzuela-Baca, and Antelmo Eligio Ramirez-Bernardo were arrested at an alleged stash house in Anthony, New Mexico. According to an affidavit, U.S. Border Patrol and Homeland Security Investigations agents observed three vehicles that had been identified as being used to smuggle illegal aliens to Albuquerque, New Mexico, parked at the residence. When agents questioned Ramirez-Bernardo, a Guatemalan national, they allegedly discovered he possessed a key to the residence on his keychain. Agents then located 25 individuals inside the residence who admitted to being citizens of Mexico, Peru, Honduras, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, and Pakistan without documentation to be in the U.S. Two of the individuals, Delgado-Alderete and Valenzuela-Baca, were identified as alleged stash house caretakes and drivers to harbor and transport the illegal aliens. Delgado-Alderete, Valenzuela-Baca, and Ramirez-Bernardo are charged with one count of conspiracy to transport illegal aliens and one count of conspiracy to harbor illegal aliens.  The drivers allegedly picked up aliens in El Paso before transporting them to New Mexico.

    The District of Arizona brought immigration-related criminal charges against 314 defendants. Specifically, the United States filed 117 cases in which aliens illegally re-entered the United States, and the United States also charged 166 aliens for illegally entering the United States.  In its ongoing effort to deter unlawful immigration, the United States filed 25 cases against 31 individuals responsible for smuggling illegal aliens into and within the District of Arizona.

    We are grateful for the hard work of our border prosecutors in bringing these cases and helping to make our border safe again.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Westport Fuel Systems Reports First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Westport Fuel Systems Inc. (“Westport“) (TSX:WPRT / Nasdaq:WPRT) reported financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025, and provided an update on operations. All figures are in U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated.

    “We continue to make significant strides in transforming Westport and sharpening our strategic focus. Our priorities remain clear: driving success through Cespira, our HPDI joint venture with Volvo Group; pursuing operational excellence through initiatives to streamline processes and reduce costs; and positioning Westport at the forefront of the alternative fuel shift.

    These priorities are guiding us as we work towards a brighter future. We’re seeing the impact of our efforts in our recent results – we significantly improved our net loss to $2.5 million in Q1 of 2025 from a net loss of $13.6 million in Q1 of 2024. This was supported by a $3.5 million increase in gross profit and an $8.1 million decrease in operating expenses. We also reported a substantial improvement in adjusted EBITDA as compared to the same period of the prior year.

    Looking to the future, with the announcement of the proposed sale of our light-duty business, Westport is realigning to focus on the hard-to-decarbonize applications primarily in long-haul and heavy-duty trucking where our unique HPDI and high-pressure technologies offer significant growth potential. Critically, this transaction is designed to provide immediate cash proceeds that bolster our balance sheet and fund growth opportunities in Cespira and the High-Pressure Controls & Systems business.

    Now, the conversation has changed. Our attendance at the Advanced Clean Transportation Expo or ACT Expo, the largest showcase of clean transportation technologies in North America, validated our view that the market recognizes that the internal combustion engine utilizing alternative fuels is an affordable solution that also decarbonizes long-haul, heavy-duty transport. Westport is the clean-tech innovation company to help drive this change. Through Cespira, the HPDI fuel system does the on-engine work to our High Pressure Controls and Systems business where our components do the off-engine work we are providing OEMs with simplified solutions to decarbonize.

    Volvo recently highlighted that demand for their gas-powered trucks that utilize HPDI technology has been increasing, with sales up more than 25% in 2024, a trend that we saw continue into Q1 with Cespira delivering improved revenue driven by increased volumes as compared to Q1 of 2024. While we remain focused on scaling our alternative fuel solutions, including LNG, CNG, RNG, and hydrogen systems, we are matching the cleanest gaseous fuels with the most efficient engine technologies. We are committed to delivering practical, commercially viable low-carbon solutions today and providing sustainable, high-performance solutions that help our customers achieve their goals now and for years to come.”

    Dan Sceli, Chief Executive Officer

    Q1 2025 Highlights

    • Revenues decreased 9% to $71.0 million compared to the same period in 2024, primarily driven by decreased sales volumes in our Heavy-Duty OEM and High-Pressure Controls & Systems segments. This was partially offset by increased sales in our Light-Duty segment in the quarter. In Q1 2024, our Heavy-Duty OEM segment included the financial results of the HPDI business which are now accounted for as part of the Cespira joint venture.
    • Net loss of $2.5 million for the quarter compared to net loss of $13.6 million for the same quarter last year. The decrease in net loss was driven by a $3.5 million increase in gross profit, decrease in operating expenditures by $8.1 million; change in foreign exchange gain or loss by $2.3 million and an increase in loss from investments accounted for by the equity method of $3.8 million.
    • Adjusted EBITDA[1] of nil  compared to negative $6.6 million for the same period in 2024.
    • Cash and cash equivalents were $32.6 million at the end of the first quarter. Cash used in operating activities during the quarter was $4.9 million with net cash used by working capital of $8.1 million, partially offset by operating income of $1.7 million. Investing activities included the collection of $10.5 million in a holdback receivable related to our previous sale of CWI to Cummins in 2022, capital contribution into Cespira of $4.7 million and purchase of capital assets of $3.1 million. Cash used in financing activities was attributed to net debt repayments of $3.9 million in the quarter.

    [1] Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes and depreciation is a non-GAAP measure. Please refer to NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES in Westport’s Management Discussion and Analysis for the reconciliation.

    Consolidated Results      Over /   
    ($ in millions, except per share amounts)     (Under)   
      1Q25 1Q24 %  
    Revenue $ 71.0   $ 77.6   (9 )%
    Gross Profit(2)   15.2     11.7   30 %
    Gross Margin(2)   21 %   15 %  
    Income (loss) from Investments Accounted for by the Equity Method(1)   (3.8 )     (100 )%
    Net Loss   (2.5 )   (13.6 ) 82 %
    Net Loss per Share – Basic   (0.14 )   (0.79 ) 82 %
    Net Loss per Share – Diluted   (0.14 )   (0.79 ) 82 %
    EBITDA (2)   (0.1 )   (9.2 ) 99 %
    Adjusted EBITDA (2)       (6.6 ) 100 %

    (1) This includes income or loss primarily from our investments in Cespira and Minda Westport Technologies Limited
    (2) Gross margins, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are non-GAAP measures. Please refer to GAAP and NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES for the reconciliation to equivalent GAAP measures and limitations on the use of such measures.

    Segment Information

    Light-Duty

    Revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2025 was $64.2 million compared with $63.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. Light-Duty revenue increased by $0.9 million compared to the prior year and was primarily driven by increase in sales in our light-duty OEM and DOEM businesses. The light-duty OEM business had an increase in sales from its Euro 6 program compared to the prior year. In the first quarter of 2024, DOEM had a significant decrease in sales to a customer. This was partially offset by lower sales in our IAM, electronics and fuel storage businesses compared to the prior year.

    Gross profit for the three months ended March 31, 2025 increased by $1.6 million to $14.0 million, or 22% of revenue, compared to $12.4 million, or 20% of revenue, for the same prior year period. This was primarily driven by a change in sales mix with an increase in sales to European customers and a reduction in sales to developing regions.

    High Pressure Controls & Systems

    Revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2025 was $1.4 million compared with $2.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. The decrease in revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2025 compared to the prior year was primarily driven by the hydrogen industry slowdown impacting demand for hydrogen components.

    Gross profit for the three months ended March 31, 2025 decreased by $0.2 million to $0.2 million, or 14% of revenue, compared to $0.4 million, or 17% of revenue, for the same prior year period. This was primarily driven by lower sales volumes increasing the per unit manufacturing costs in the quarter.

    Heavy-Duty Original Equipment Manufacturer (“OEM”)

    Revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2025 was $5.4 million, compared to $11.9 million for the prior year. The decrease in revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2025 is a result of the continuation of the business in Cespira. The revenue earned in the current quarter was from our services provided under the transitional service agreement with Cespira that is expected to end by Q2 2026.

    Gross profit for the three months ended March 31, 2025 increased by $2.1 million to $1.0 million, or 19% of revenue, compared to negative $1.1 million or negative 9% of revenue, for the same prior year period. The Heavy-Duty OEM segment received $0.9million in credits from component suppliers for inventory sold in the quarter.

    Selected Cespira Statements of Operations Data

    We account for Cespira using the equity method of accounting. However, due to its significance to our long-term strategy and operating results, we disclose certain Cespira’s financial information in notes 7 and 17 of our interim financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2025.

    The following table sets forth a summary of the financial results of Cespira for the three months ended March 31, 2025 .

    (in millions of U.S. dollars)   Three months ended March 31,   Change
          2025       2024     $   %
    Total revenue   $ 16.7     $     $ 16.7     %
    Gross profit   $ 0.5     $     $ 0.5     %
    Gross margin1     3 %     %        
    Operating loss   $ (7.1 )   $     $ (7.1 )   %
    Net loss attributable to the Company   $ (3.9 )   $     $ (3.9 )   %

    1Gross margin is non-GAAP financial measure. See the section ‘Non-GAAP Financial Measures’ for explanations and discussions of these non-GAAP financial measures or ratios.

    Revenue

    Cespira revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2025 were $16.7 million. In the prior year, the Heavy-Duty OEM segment, which included our HPDI business, had revenues of $11.9 million. This was primarily driven by an increase in HPDI fuel systems sold in the period.

    Gross Profit

    Gross profit was $0.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. In the prior year, the Heavy-Duty OEM segment had negative $1.1 million in gross profit primarily driven by the increase in sales volumes compared to the prior year and reductions in manufacturing cost.

    Operating loss

    Cespira incurred operating losses of $7.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. Cespira continues to incur operating losses as it scales its operations and expand into other markets.

    Q1 2025 Conference Call
    Westport has scheduled a conference call for May 14, 2025, at 7:00 am Pacific Time (10:00 pm Eastern Time) to discuss these results. To access the conference call please register at
    https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI73bcac200e5f4652873668cf803d72ed

    The live webcast of the conference call can be accessed through the Westport website at
    https://investors.wfsinc.com/.

    Participants may register up to 60 minutes before the event by clicking on the call link and completing the online registration form. Upon registration, the user will receive dial-in info and a unique PIN, along with an email confirming the details.

    The webcast will be archived on Westport’s website at https://investors.wfsinc.com.

    Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis

    To view Westport financials for the first quarter ended March 31st, 2025, please visit https://investors.wfsinc.com/financials/

    About Westport Fuel Systems

    At Westport Fuel Systems, we are driving innovation to power a cleaner tomorrow. We are a leading supplier of advanced fuel delivery components and systems for clean, low-carbon fuels such as natural gas, renewable natural gas, propane, and hydrogen to the global automotive industry. Our technology delivers the performance and fuel efficiency required by transportation applications and the environmental benefits that address climate change and urban air quality challenges. Headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, with operations in Europe, Asia, North America, and South America, we serve our customers in approximately 70 countries with leading global transportation brands. At Westport Fuel Systems, we think ahead. For more information, visit www.wfsinc.com.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements regarding future strategic initiatives and future growth, future of our development programs (including those relating to HPDI and Hydrogen), our expectations for 2024 and beyond, including the demand for our products, and the future success of our business and technology strategies. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on both the views of management and assumptions that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activities, performance or achievements expressed in or implied by these forward looking statements. These risks, uncertainties and assumptions include those related to our revenue growth, operating results, industry and products, the general economy, conditions of and access to the capital and debt markets, solvency, governmental policies and regulation, technology innovations, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, operating expenses, continued reduction in expenses, ability to successfully commercialize new products, the performance of our joint ventures, the availability and price of natural gas and hydrogen, new environmental regulations, the acceptance of and shift to natural gas and hydrogen vehicles,fuel emission standards, the development of competing technologies, our ability to adequately develop and deploy our technology, the actions and determinations of our joint venture and development partners, the effects and duration of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, supply chain disruptions as well as other risk factors and assumptions that may affect our actual results, performance or achievements or financial position discussed in our most recent Annual Information Form and other filings with securities regulators. Readers should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they were made. We disclaim any obligation to publicly update or revise such statements to reflect any change in our expectations or in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements may be based, or that may affect the likelihood that actual results will differ from those set forth in these forward-looking statements except as required by National Instrument 51-102.

    Contact Information
    Investor Relations
    Westport Fuel Systems
    T: +1 604-718-2046

    GAAP and Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Our financial statements are prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”). These U.S. GAAP financial statements include non-cash charges and other charges and benefits that may be unusual or infrequent in nature or that we believe may make comparisons to our prior or future performance difficult. In addition to conventional measures prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP, Westport and certain investors use EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA as an indicator of our ability to generate liquidity by producing operating cash flow to fund working capital needs, service debt obligations and fund capital expenditures. Management also uses these non-GAAP measures in its review and evaluation of the financial performance of Westport. EBITDA is also frequently used by investors and analysts for valuation purposes whereby EBITDA is multiplied by a factor or “EBITDA multiple” that is based on an observed or inferred relationship between EBITDA and market values to determine the approximate total enterprise value of a company. We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures also provide additional insight to investors and securities analysts as supplemental information to our U.S. GAAP results and as a basis to compare our financial performance period-over-period and to compare our financial performance with that of other companies. We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures facilitate comparisons of our core operating results from period to period and to other companies by, in the case of EBITDA, removing the effects of our capital structure (net interest income on cash deposits, interest expense on outstanding debt and debt facilities), asset base (depreciation and amortization) and tax consequences. Adjusted EBITDA provides this same indicator of Westports’ EBITDA from continuing operations and removing such effects of our capital structure, asset base and tax consequences, but additionally excludes any unrealized foreign exchange gains or losses, stock-based compensation charges and other one-time impairments and costs which are not expected to be repeated in order to provide greater insight into the cash flow being produced from our operating business, without the influence of extraneous events.

    Segment Information

    EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are intended to provide additional information to investors and analysts and do not have any standardized definition under U.S. GAAP, and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA exclude the impact of cash costs of financing activities and taxes, and the effects of changes in operating working capital balances, and therefore are not necessarily indicative of operating profit or cash flow from operations as determined under U.S. GAAP. Other companies may calculate EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA differently.

    Segment earnings or losses before income taxes, interest, depreciation, and amortization (“Segment EBITDA”) is the measure of segment profitability used by the Company. The accounting policies of our reportable segments are the same as those applied in our consolidated financial statements. Management prepared the financial results of the Company’s reportable segments on basis that is consistent with the manner in which Management internally disaggregates financial information to assist in making internal operating decisions. Certain common costs and expenses, primarily corporate functions, among segments differently than we would for stand-alone financial information prepared in accordance with GAAP. These include certain costs and expenses of shared services, such as IT, human resources, legal, finance and supply chain management. Segment EBITDA is not defined under US GAAP and may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies and should not be considered a substitute for net earnings or other results reported in accordance with GAAP. Reconciliations of reportable segment information to consolidated statement of operations can be found in section “NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES & RECONCILIATIONS” within this press release.

      Three months ended March 31, 2025
      Light-Duty   High-Pressure Controls & Systems   Heavy-Duty OEM   Cespira   Total Segment
    Revenue $ 64.2   $ 1.4     $ 5.4   $ 16.7     $ 87.7
    Cost of revenue   50.2     1.2       4.4     16.2       72.0
    Gross profit   14.0     0.2       1.0     0.5       15.7
    Operating expenses:
    Research & development   3.0     1.0       0.1     3.1       7.2
    General & administrative   4.1     0.3       0.1     2.7       7.2
    Sales & marketing   2.3     0.1           0.3       2.7
    Depreciation & amortization   0.7     0.1           0.7       1.5
        10.1     1.5       0.2     6.8       18.6
    Equity income (note 8)   0.1                     0.1
    Add back: Depreciation & amortization   1.9     0.1           1.6       3.6
    Segment EBITDA $ 5.9   $ (1.2 )   $ 0.8   $ (4.7 )   $ 0.8
      Three months ended March 31, 2024
      Light-Duty   High-Pressure Controls & Systems   Heavy-Duty OEM   Total Segment
    Revenue $ 63.3   $ 2.4     $ 11.9     $ 77.6  
    Cost of revenue   50.9     2.0       13.0       65.9  
    Gross profit   12.4     0.4       (1.1 )     11.7  
    Operating expenses:              
    Research & development   3.6     1.3       2.8       7.7  
    General & administrative   3.7     0.2       1.8       5.7  
    Sales & marketing   2.1     0.2       0.5       2.8  
    Depreciation & amortization   0.6     0.1       0.1       0.8  
        10.0     1.8       5.2       17.0  
    Equity income                    
    Add back: Depreciation & amortization   1.5     0.1       1.4       3.0  
    Segment EBITDA $ 3.9   $ (1.3 )   $ (4.9 )   $ (2.3 )
    Gross Profit    
    (expressed in millions of U.S. dollars) 1Q25   1Q24
    Three months ended  
    Revenue $ 71.0     $ 77.6  
    Less: Cost of revenue   55.8       65.9  
    Gross profit   15.2       11.7  
    Gross margin %   21.4 %     15.1 %
      Three months ended March 31, 2025
      Total Segment   Less: Cespira   Add: Corporate & unallocated   Total Consolidated
    Revenue $ 87.7   $ 16.7   $     $ 71.0  
    Cost of revenue   72.0     16.2           55.8  
    Gross profit   15.7     0.5           15.2  
    Operating expenses:
    Research & development   7.2     3.1           4.1  
    General & administrative   7.2     2.7     1.9       6.4  
    Sales & marketing   2.7     0.3     0.3       2.7  
    Depreciation & amortization   1.5     0.7           0.8  
        18.6     6.8     2.2       14.0  
    Equity income (loss)   0.1         (3.9 )     (3.8 )
      Three months ended March 31, 2024
      Total Segment   Add: Corporate & unallocated   Total Consolidated
    Revenue $ 77.6   $   $ 77.6
    Cost of revenue   65.9         65.9
    Gross profit   11.7         11.7
    Operating expenses:
    Research & development   7.7         7.7
    General & administrative   5.7     4.7     10.4
    Sales & marketing   2.8     0.4     3.2
    Depreciation & amortization   0.8     0.2     1.0
        17.0     5.3     22.3
    Equity income          
    Reconciliation of Segment EBITDA to Loss before income taxes   Three months ended March 31,
        2025       2024  
    Total Segment EBITDA   $ 0.8     $ (2.3 )
    Adjustments:
    Depreciation & amortization     2.0       3.0  
    Cespira’s Segment EBITDA     (4.7 )      
    Cespira’s equity loss     3.9        
    Corporate and unallocated operating expenses     2.2       5.3  
    Foreign exchange loss     (0.5 )     1.8  
    Interest on long-term debt and accretion of royalty payable     0.7       0.8  
    Interest and other income, net of bank charges     (0.9 )     (0.3 )
    Loss before income taxes   $ (1.9 )   $ (12.9 )
    EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA        
    (expressed in millions of U.S. dollars)   1Q25   1Q24
    Three months ended    
    Loss before income taxes   $ (1.9 )   $ (12.9 )
    Interest expense (income), net     (0.2 )     0.5  
    Depreciation and amortization     2.0       3.2  
    EBITDA     (0.1 )     (9.2 )
    Stock based compensation (recovery)     0.3       0.3  
    Unrealized foreign exchange (gain) loss     (0.5 )     1.8  
    Severance costs           0.5  
    Restructuring costs     0.3        
    Adjusted EBITDA   $     $ (6.6 )
    WESTPORT FUEL SYSTEMS INC.
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited)
    (Expressed in thousands of United States dollars, except share amounts)
    March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024
     
        March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024
    Assets        
    Current assets:        
    Cash and cash equivalents (including restricted cash)   $ 32,637     $ 37,646  
    Accounts receivable     66,634       73,054  
    Inventories     63,214       53,526  
    Prepaid expenses     6,551       5,660  
    Total current assets     169,036       169,886  
    Long-term investments     40,052       39,732  
    Property, plant and equipment     45,314       41,956  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets     19,249       19,019  
    Intangible assets     5,174       5,277  
    Deferred income tax assets     10,261       9,695  
    Goodwill     2,996       2,876  
    Other long-term assets     3,163       3,180  
    Total assets   $ 295,245     $ 291,621  
    Liabilities and shareholders’ equity        
    Current liabilities:        
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities   $ 93,127     $ 88,123  
    Current portion of operating lease liabilities     2,750       2,624  
    Current portion of long-term debt     13,225       14,660  
    Current portion of warranty liability     4,013       3,861  
    Total current liabilities     113,115       109,268  
    Long-term operating lease liabilities     16,560       16,433  
    Long-term debt     17,915       19,067  
    Warranty liability     1,603       1,456  
    Deferred income tax liabilities     4,063       4,029  
    Other long-term liabilities     4,391       4,343  
    Total liabilities     157,647       154,596  
    Shareholders’ equity:        
    Share capital:        
    Unlimited common and preferred shares, no par value        
    17,326,732 (2024 – 17,282,934) common shares issued and outstanding     1,246,408       1,245,805  
    Other equity instruments     9,081       9,472  
    Additional paid in capital     11,516       11,516  
    Accumulated deficit     (1,098,726 )     (1,096,275 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (30,681 )     (33,493 )
    Total shareholders’ equity     137,598       137,025  
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity   $ 295,245     $ 291,621  
    WESTPORT FUEL SYSTEMS INC.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) (unaudited)
    (Expressed in thousands of United States dollars, except share and per share amounts)
    Three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024
     
        Three months ended March 31,
          2025       2024  
    Revenue   $ 70,955     $ 77,574  
    Cost of revenue     55,730       65,851  
    Gross profit     15,225       11,723  
    Operating expenses:        
    Research and development     4,052       7,693  
    General and administrative     6,397       10,353  
    Sales and marketing     2,758       3,287  
    Foreign exchange (gain) loss     (456 )     1,820  
    Depreciation and amortization     740       1,043  
          13,491       24,196  
    Income (loss) from operations     1,734       (12,473 )
             
    Income (loss) from investments accounted for by the equity method     (3,799 )     31  
    Interest on long-term debt     (676 )     (812 )
    Interest and other income, net of bank charges     869       341  
    Loss before income taxes     (1,872 )     (12,913 )
    Income tax expense     579       735  
    Net loss for the period     (2,451 )     (13,648 )
    Other comprehensive income (loss):        
    Cumulative translation adjustment     3,641       (430 )
    Ownership share of equity method investments’ other comprehensive loss     (829 )      
          2,812       (430 )
    Comprehensive income (loss)   $ 361     $ (14,078 )
             
    Loss per share:        
    Net loss per share – basic and diluted   $ (0.14 )     (0.79 )
    Weighted average common shares outstanding:        
    Basic and diluted     17,322,681       17,220,540  
    WESTPORT FUEL SYSTEMS INC.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited)
    (Expressed in thousands of United States dollars)
    Three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024
     
        Three months ended March 31,
          2025       2024  
    Operating activities:        
    Net loss for the period   $ (2,451 )   $ (13,648 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:        
    Depreciation and amortization     1,930       3,247  
    Stock-based compensation expense     212       331  
    Unrealized foreign exchange (gain) loss     (456 )     1,820  
    Deferred income tax (recovery)     (33 )     (40 )
    Loss (income) from investments accounted for by the equity method     3,799       (31 )
    Interest on long-term debt     22       22  
    Change in inventory write-downs     223       413  
    Change in bad debt expense     (33 )     (121 )
    Other           (248 )
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:        
    Accounts receivable     (2,072 )     12,526  
    Inventories     (7,502 )     (7,434 )
    Prepaid expenses     (415 )     (400 )
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities     2,840       4,725  
    Warranty liability     (963 )     (1,020 )
    Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities     (4,899 )     142  
    Investing activities:        
    Purchase of property, plant and equipment     (3,142 )     (4,893 )
    Proceeds on sale of assets     82       135  
    Proceeds from holdback receivable     10,450        
    Capital contributions to investments accounted for by the equity method (note 7)     (4,686 )      
    Net cash used in investing activities     2,704       (4,758 )
    Financing activities:        
    Repayments of operating lines of credit and long-term facilities     (3,918 )     (17,689 )
    Drawings on operating lines of credit and long-term facilities           11,848  
    Net cash used in financing activities     (3,918 )     (5,841 )
    Effect of foreign exchange on cash and cash equivalents     1,104       (494 )
    Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents     (5,009 )     (10,951 )
    Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period (including restricted cash)     37,646       54,853  
    Cash and cash equivalents, end of period (including restricted cash)   $ 32,637     $ 43,902  

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strickland, Salazar Reintroduce Bipartisan Effort to Eliminate 90-Day State Residency Requirement for Military Spouses Applying for Citizenship

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, following Military Spouse Appreciation Day, U.S. Representatives Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) and Maria Salazar (FL-27) reintroduced the Ensuring Security for Military Spouses Act, a bipartisan effort to eliminate the 90-day state residency requirement for spouses of servicemembers on active duty who apply for naturalization.

    “Military spouses are the backbone of our nation’s military, serving the nation right alongside our servicemembers,” said Strickland. “To ensure national security, address recruitment and retention issues, and maintain readiness, we must support green card-holding military spouses who want to become citizens.”

    “Our active duty servicemembers and their families make an enormous sacrifice to keep us safe,” said Salazar. “This bill ensures fairness for the spouses of servicemen seeking U.S. citizenship by updating state residency requirements for green-card holders. In doing so, these aspiring Americans are not penalized due to the orders they receive while serving our nation.”

    The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) requires lawful permanent residents – i.e. green card holders – to reside for at least 90 days within the state in which they file their naturalization application. This can adversely impact military spouses, who are sometimes required to move on short notice when their servicemember spouse receives orders.

    Currently, lawful permanent resident spouses of servicemembers stationed abroad are not subject to a single state residency requirement. The Ensuring Security for Military Spouses Act would create parity for spouses of active-duty servicemembers stationed at home and abroad, and provide flexibility in meeting the demands of military service and the requirements of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration policy.

    The Ensuring Security for Military Spouses Act has the support of the National Immigration Forum.

    You can read the full bill text here.

    Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is Whip of the New Democrat Coalition, Secretary of the Congressional Black Caucus, and is one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Peters Urges Fiscal Responsibility and Against Healthcare Cuts in Republican Tax Plan Committee Consideration

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Scott Peters (52nd District of California)

     

    [embedded content]

    Washington D.C. – Today, at an Energy & Commerce Committee meeting on the Republican tax plan, Representative Scott Peters (CA-50) urged his colleagues to not go through with their extreme cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act to pay for tax cuts to wealthy individuals and corporations that do not need them. The Republican plan, which will not reduce the federal debt or deficit, would kick 13.7 million people off of their health insurance according to a new analysis by the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office.

    During his remarks, Rep. Peters also shared the story of his constituent, Jesus Acosta, who is an in-home care provider for his mother who was disabled after being hit by a car. Without Medicaid funding, Jesus would no longer be able to provide this care and pay the bills that keep their family together in their home.

    Rep. Peters began his remarks by stating, “This Committee has no jurisdiction over taxes, but let’s be honest with the American people. Taxes are the real reason we’re here. Over in the Ways & Means Committee, they are marking up what will be one of the most expensive tax bills in history. When Republicans originally passed the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, they designed many of the individual and some business tax provisions to expire this year. That’s because even back then, Republicans knew making the tax cuts permanent would cost the United States trillions in revenue we desperately need to pay our expenses. Making those tax cuts permanent now is no less costly.

    He continued, “The bill before us will decimate Medicaid, which provides health insurance to nearly 72 million people nationwide. In every congressional district across the country, Medicaid supports health care for children, Americans with disabilities, and working people who are already struggling to keep up. Cutting health coverage for our most vulnerable neighbors will not make America healthier, it will make us sicker.”

    And he concluded, “Don’t buy their fiscal responsibility act. Republicans are proposing these painful cuts to programs that help everyday Americans not to lower our debt but just so President Trump can follow through on his campaign promise to give his donors, who he himself said were already “rich as hell,” even more money in tax cuts. When the government borrows more, inflation goes up and working people suffer at the grocery store, gas pump, and when they pay for utilities. Higher federal borrowing drives up interest rates and makes it harder for people to buy a home, start a business, or pay down credit cards.  All this now in addition to depriving so many Americans of basic health care.”

    CA-50 Medicaid Facts:

    • 156,100 people in the district rely on Medicaid for health coverage—that’s 20 percent of all district residents.
      • 34,700 children in the district are covered by Medicaid.
      • 17,700 seniors in the district are covered by Medicaid.
      • 64,900 adults in the district have Medicaid coverage through Medicaid expansion—that includes pregnant women who are able to access prenatal care sooner because of Medicaid expansion, parents, caretakers, veterans, people with substance use disorder and mental health treatment needs, and people with chronic conditions and disabilities.
    • At least five hospitals in the district had negative operating margins in 2022. These hospitals would be especially hard-hit by cuts to Medicaid. For example:
      • Scripps Mercy Hospital had a negative 25.3 percent operating margin—and nearly 22 percent of its revenue came from Medicaid.
      • Sharp Coronado Hospital had a negative 3.5 percent operating margin—and over 36 percent of its revenue came from Medicaid.
      • University of California San Diego Medical Center had a negative 2.4 percent operating margin—and nearly 19 percent of its revenue came from Medicaid.
    • There are 54 health center delivery sites in the district that serve 529,944 patients.
    • Those health centers and patients rely on Medicaid—statewide, 69 percent of health center patients rely on Medicaid for coverage.
    • Health centers will not be able to stay open and provide the same care that they do today, with more uninsured and underinsured patients. They are already operating on thin margins—in 2023, nationally, nearly half of health centers had negative operating margins.
    • Medicaid cuts put health centers at risk, including:
      • Family Health Centers of San Diego
      • Neighborhood Healthcare
      • North County Health Project
      • San Diego American Indian Health Centers
      • St. Vincent De Paul Village

     Jesus’s Story:

    Jesus Acosta is a home care provider and member of United Domestic Workers, UDW/AFSCME, in San Diego. Jesus became a care provider after his mother was tragically hit by a car, leaving her disabled. She was a single mother who worked hard to provide for Jesus and his siblings. After her accident, Jesus felt it was his responsibility to care for the woman who always cared for him — and he’s proud to do it.

    Jesus became his mother’s full time care provider in 2016. The responsibilities that come with her care — medication management, feeding her, bathing her, taking her to doctor’s appointments, helping her with her physical therapy and to live a fulfilling life with her family — has made it difficult for Jesus to maintain full-time employment. But he is able to take care of himself and pay the bills for his family thanks to Medicaid. The program also pays for his mother’s wheelchair and doctors’ visits. Without Medicaid funding, Jesus and his family would likely have to move out of their home and they would be separated

    Rep. Peters’ Full Remarks as Prepared for Delivery:

    Jesus is one of my constituents from San Diego. His mother was tragically hit by a car, leaving her disabled.

    Jesus became his mother’s full time care provider in 2016. He manages her medications, feeds her, bathes her, takes her to doctor appointments, and helps with her physical therapy.

    If these Medicaid cuts take effect, this work – this very had work — will not meet the so-called work requirements Republicans want to impose. Jesus and his family would likely have to move out of their home and live separated, and they will lose their health care.

    Mr. Chairman, this Committee has no jurisdiction over taxes, but let’s be honest with the American people. Taxes are the real reason we’re here.

    Over in the Ways & Means Committee, they are marking up what will be one of the most expensive tax bills in history.

    When Republicans originally passed the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, they designed many of the individual and some business tax provisions to expire this year.

    That’s because even back then, Republicans knew making the tax cuts permanent would cost the United States trillions in revenue we desperately need to pay our expenses. Making those tax cuts permanent now is no less costly.

    Yet, that’s what we are being asked to do today.  The Budget Committee instructed the Ways and Means Committee to cut taxes by $4.5 trillion and has asked our committee to come up with $880 billion in cuts to make up the shortfall.  That’s it. That’s what this is about.

    To do that, the bill before us will decimate Medicaid, which provides health insurance to nearly 72 million people nationwide.

    In every congressional district across the country, Medicaid supports health care for children, Americans with disabilities, and working people who are already struggling to keep up.

    Cutting health coverage for our most vulnerable neighbors will not make America healthier, it will make us sicker.

    At home I hear from people concerned about national debt and deficits and they say to me, “hey Scott we have to make cuts to address the deficit.”  But that is not what is happening here.  Because Republicans will continue to run $2 trillion annual budget deficits and we will see the national debt grow from 36 to 38 to 40 to 42 trillion.  And they will vote for a $5 trillion increase in the debt limit to make this borrowing possible, even though many of them swore a blood oath that they’d never vote to increase the debt.  They will enact a budget that according to the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget will increase the federal debt by $37 trillion over 30 years. 

    Don’t buy their fiscal responsibility act. Republicans are proposing these painful cuts to programs that help everyday Americans not to lower our debt but just so President Trump can follow through on his campaign promise to give his donors, who he himself said were already “rich as hell,” even more money in tax cuts.

    When the government borrows more, inflation goes up and working people suffer at the grocery store, gas pump, and when they pay for utilities. Higher federal borrowing drives up interest rates and makes it harder for people to buy a home, start a business, or pay down credit cards.  All this now in addition to depriving so many Americans of basic health care.

    I urge my colleagues to vote no.

    Thank you, I yield back.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News