Source: Reserve Bank of India
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Category: Asia
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MIL-OSI Economics: Money Market Operations as on April 07, 2025
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MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace Statement: Greenpeace corrects Federated Farmers’ impotent attack
Source: Greenpeace
In response to the “desperate bid” by Federated Farmers to curtail Greenpeace, the environmental heavyweight has issued a correction to the agri-industry lobby group’s “scurrilous complaint” made to the Charities Commission yesterday.Greenpeace Aotearoa spokesperson Niamh O’Flynn says, “It’s just another attempt to shut down dissent by Federated Farmers. The Feds are a lobby group for New Zealand’s biggest polluters, and this crack at peaceful protest is part of a global trend that we must not stand for.Greenpeace has faced polluters trying to shut us down for decades. Just like the French bombed the Rainbow Warrior 40 years ago to try to stop our opposition to nuclear testing in the Pacific, and the oil industry is currently trying to eliminate Greenpeace in the US, this is another, albeit impotent, attempt to curtail legitimate peaceful protest.”Greenpeace says that the Federated Farmers list of Greenpeace protests is far from comprehensive and omits dozens of examples of direct action that have played a key role in bringing about positive change in Aotearoa and beyond.O’Flynn says, “Greenpeace has a long history of taking direct action to highlight environmental injustices and stop polluting industries like Fonterra from harming the environment. Federated Farmers have curated a list of some of our most impactful actions – but they’ve left quite a few out and we want to set the record straight.”“Since the 1970s, Greenpeace has campaigned in Aotearoa and the Pacific to ensure that the environment is protected from harm by industries like nuclear weapons, fossil fuels, intensive dairy and commercial fishing that cause significant harm to our collective home. That means that sometimes we will put our bodies on the line to stop corporations from harming the planet.”“Importantly, many of our actions to highlight environmental injustice have led to changes that we pride ourselves on as a nation. The nuclear free campaigns of the 1970s and 80s led to New Zealand declaring itself nuclear free, and to the end of nuclear testing in the Pacific. The GE-free campaign led to New Zealand imposing a moratorium on GE crops. The campaign to end oil and gas exploration led to a ban on new offshore oil and gas exploration in Aotearoa. The campaign to stop the Ruataniwha Dam protected the rivers of the Hawke’s Bay from pollution from intensive dairy expansion, and prevented conservation land from being flooded to build a dam.“New Zealanders care deeply about nature and history shows that Greenpeace protests have protected that.. Our actions sit alongside long-fought legal battles, petitions, and mass protests and marches in the streets of New Zealand’s biggest cities.“We wanted to take this opportunity to reflect on our long history of actions that have succeeded in protecting nature from industries that seek to destroy it.”An expanded (but not comprehensive), list of key Greenpeace Aotearoa actions dating back to the 1970s is below.1970s:- In 1972, the Nuclear Campaign started with the first protest flotilla mobilisation to oppose and disrupt the French Government’s atmospheric nuclear weapons testing programme at Moruroa Atoll in Te Ao Maohi/French Polynesia. This was led by the boat (SV) Greenpeace III, previously named the Vega.
- In 1973, a second, larger flotilla sailed to the Moruroa Atoll including the Vega. Sailing into the nuclear testing zone prevented the French from being able to detonate bombs.
1980s:- In July 1985, the Greenpeace boat Rainbow Warrior was bombed in the Auckland Harbour following direct actions in the Pacific to oppose nuclear testing – including the evacuation of the people of Rongelap.
- In September 1985, Greenpeace sent MV Greenpeace to protest against the French Government’s nuclear testing programme at Moruroa Atoll alongside a flotilla of New Zealand protest boats including SV Vega, SV Alliance, SV Varangian, and SV Breeze.
1990s:- In 1995 Greenpeace once again sailed the Rainbow Warrior II into nuclear testing zones in Moruroa and Tahiti to protest the resumption of French nuclear testing.
- In 1995, Greenpeace protested against CHOGM in Auckland over the impending execution of Ogoni environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa by the military regime that ruled Nigeria.
- In 1997, Greenpeace activists blocked the Stratford gas-fired power station’s generators being unloaded in the Port of Taranaki
- In 1998, during the SV Rainbow Warrior II tour, Greenpeace ‘unplugged’ Fletcher Challenge Energy’s seismic testing cabling in Taranaki.
- During the 1990s, Greenpeace championed the creation of a 50 million square kilometre Southern Ocean Whale Sanctuary around the Antarctic continent and launched a series of anti-whaling expeditions into the Southern Ocean to expose and confront the Japanese Government’s bogus ‘scientific’ whaling fleet operating there.
2000s:- In December 2000, Greenpeace activists stopped the production of genetically engineered feed at a Tegel plant in Takanini.
- In 2002, activists in Auckland scaled a waste incineration facility chimney, capped it, and locked on to highlight dioxin pollution.
- In August 2003, Greenpeace activists boarded a coal ship in Tauranga in opposition to coal mining.
- In 2004, the SV Rainbow Warrior II‘s crew used inflatable boats to disrupt the NZ bottom trawler, Ocean Reward, to stop it destroying deep-sea life while fishing in international waters in the Tasman Sea. They delayed the fishing vessel from deploying its trawl net by attaching an inflatable life-raft to it, running the gauntlet of being shot at with compressed air guns and sprayed with high pressure fire hoses by the Ocean Reward’s crew.
- In May 2004, Greenpeace activists locked on to the Auckland McDonalds distribution centre gates over McDonalds’ use of GE feed.
- In February 2005, Greenpeace activists occupied the roof of the Marsden B power station.
- In July 2006, Greenpeace activists locked on to a Chinese bottom trawling ship in the Port of Nelson to prevent the destruction caused by the bottom trawling industry to the seafloor.
- In October 2008, Greenpeace activists in Tokoroa locked on to logging equipment to stop conversion to pasture for intensive agriculture.
- In October 2009, Greenpeace activists locked on to a palm kernel shipment in Taranaki to protest links to rainforest destruction and climate change.
- In November 2009, Greenpeace activists shut down a pit of a New Vale lignite coal mine, used by Fonterra to help fuel operations at its nearby Edendale dairy factory.
2010s- In May 2010, Greenpeace activists locked on to a Fonterra coal power plant in Clandeboye
- In February 2011, Greenpeace activists locked on to a ship carrying palm kernel in New Plymouth to protest the links to rainforest destruction and climate change.
- Also in 2011, a flotilla of boats from around the North Island, including the Te Whanau a Apanui fishing vessel San Pietro, began a landmark at-sea protest against offshore oil surveying by oil giant Petrobras that lasted 42 days.
- In 2012, Greenpeace activists occupied the oil drilling ship The Noble Discoverer in Port Taranaki and camped on its tower for 77 hours, to protest the environmental destruction caused by oil drilling.
- In 2013, as part of the Oil Free Seas Flotilla, Greenpeace activists broke the newly introduced Anadarko Amendment by sailing into the exclusion zone to confront oil giant Anadarko at sea.
- In September 2016, Greenpeace ‘returned to sender’ the site office at the Ruataniwha Dam construction site. The activists removed the site office from its location near the Makaroro River, and returned it to the regional council who were promoting the dam’s construction. After a long campaign to prevent this dam from being built, the Council pulled its funding for the dam and the land exchange required to construct it was declared unlawful by the Supreme Court.
- In 2016, Greenpeace and people from around the country blockaded Sky City which was hosting the annual oil industry conference.
- In 2016 Greenpeace activists locked on board the NIWA taxpayer-funded climate and ocean research boat which had been chartered by petroleum giant Chevron to survey for oil in New Zealand waters
- In August 2017, Greenpeace protestors spent 12 hours locked inside irrigation pipes in a bid to slow the construction of the Central Plains Water Scheme
- In September 2017, Greenpeace activists staged a ‘lightning’ occupation of a dam construction site in Canterbury after facing legal threats from a big irrigation company.
- The Amazon Warrior Sea Protest in 2017, where Greenpeace’s Executive Director Russel Norman and two others jumped into the ocean in front of the Amazon Warrior to prevent seismic drilling.
- In July 2018, Greenpeace protestors occupied the site of a proposed dairy expansion in Mackenzie Country and refused to leave.
- The occupation of oil drilling support vessel the Skandi Atlantic at the port of Timaru in 2019, to prevent it from supporting oil giant OMV to search for oil off the coast of Taranaki
- In 2019, Greenpeace activists alongside youth climate movement School Strike 4 Climate occupied the headquarters of OMV in Taranaki for several days over the role of the fossil fuel industry in fuelling the climate crisis.
2020s:- In 2020, Greenpeace activists climbed the Fertiliser Association building and unfurled a giant banner calling for an end to the use of synthetic nitrogen fertiliser. Subsequently, the government introduced a cap on the amount of synthetic nitrogen fertiliser used on farms.
- In 2021, Greenpeace activists took action against fishing company Talleys in Nelson, painting a message on the side of the ship to protest bottom trawling.
- In 2022, Greenpeace activists deployed a 1500 square metre banner at the Kapuni Fertiliser factory, labelling synthetic nitrogen fertiliser ‘cancer fertiliser’.
- In 2023, Greenpeace activists dropped banners inside the Parliament gallery to protest inaction on climate change.
- In 2024, Greenpeace activists scaled Fonterra’s Te Rapa dairy factory in Hamilton and dropped a giant banner reading ‘Fonterra’s methane cooks the climate’, to protest the superheating methane gas produced by Fonterra’s oversized dairy herd.
- Also in 2024, Greenpeace shut down the offices of Straterra – a mining lobbying firm who are working to advance seabed mining off the coast of Taranaki despite widespread community opposition. Two Greenpeace activists scaled the building while three others locked themselves inside the offices.
- In November 2024, Greenpeace activists interrupted the AGM of Manuka Resources – the parent company of seabed mining company Trans-Tasman Resources who are attempting to mine the seabed off the coast of Taranaki.
- In April 2025, Greenpeace activists shut down operations at a palm kernel storage facility in Port Taranaki for several hours, preventing a ship from offloading thirty thousand tonnes of palm kernel connected to the destruction of Indonesian rainforests.
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MIL-OSI New Zealand: Myanmar earthquake: Risk of waterborne disease outbreak amidst devastation compounded by weekend heavy rains – Oxfam
Source: Oxfam Aotearoa
Heavy rains that struck Mandalay and Sagaing – the epicenter of the recent earthquake in Myanmar – over the weekend have further complicated the humanitarian situation. The existing lack of sanitation and clean water is now increasing the risk of waterborne diseases, said Oxfam today.Rajan Khosla, Oxfam in Myanmar Country Director, said:“The recent heavy rains have added to the challenges faced by the survivors of this earthquake, further affecting those who are already struggling. Hundreds of thousands of people are seeking shelter in temporary accommodations or in open areas, with limited access to clean water and proper sanitation.”The destruction of roads and bridges, together with the disruption in telecommunications have already slowed rescue and relief operations over the past week. Millions of people in hardest-hit areas remain with limited access to electricity, clean water and sanitation, and essential services.The 7.7-magnitude quake – the worst to hit Myanmar in decades – has left a trail of devastation, particularly in the regions of Mandalay, Sagaing, parts of Shan, and Nay Pyi Taw.The UN has estimated that the earthquake has affected more than 17 million people across 57 of the country’s 330 townships. Over 3,400 people have been announced dead and thousands more injured, and the number is still rising.Oxfam’s team was among the first to reach the hardest-hit areas, providing lifesaving supplies to prevent the outbreak of disease, particularly acute watery diarrhea. Together with our partners, Oxfam is providing people in shelters with lifesaving water, sanitation and hygiene kits, blankets, mosquito nets and other essential supplies.Oxfam’s Water, Sanitation and Hygiene expert in Mandalay, said:“Heavy rains flooded drains, polluting the environment and increasing public health risks including diarrhoea due to flies and insects. Many camps lack proper latrines, forcing people to dispose of human waste without adequate sanitation.” He added, “there are significant hygiene challenges for the camp population, as food is cooked outdoors, making it difficult to prepare meals after rain. This increases the risk of contamination and the spread of diseases.”Myanmar was already reeling from a severe humanitarian crisis, with almost 20 million people – a third of the population -needing humanitarian assistance. The situation is now catastrophic. But despite the scale of need, the country remains one of the world’s most underfunded humanitarian crises. Less than 40 percent of the UN Humanitarian appeal for Myanmar was met last year.Rajan said: “This tragedy underscores the need for a coordinated international response and significant support to help Myanmar recover and rebuild. The road to recovery is long, and every contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of those impacted by this devastating earthquake,”Oxfam is scaling up its response to reach the most vulnerable groups in hardest hit areas, particularly women, children, and people with disabilities.Notes:- Oxfam in Myanmar has been working to support communities in Myanmar since 2008, following the devastating Cyclone Nargis in the Delta region. Since then, we have expanded our programmes with the aim of reducing poverty and suffering in Myanmar, working closely with communities and local partners.
- Immediately after the earthquake, Oxfam has mobilised to deliver urgent relief to the hardest hit areas. Together with our partners, our teams have reached thousands of people, particularly in Mandalay and Sagaing, with hygiene and dignity kits, as well as, cooked food, water, mosquito nets and blankets.
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MIL-OSI China: China to keep monitoring Japan’s Fukushima water release
Source: China State Council Information Office
China said on Monday that it found no abnormality in the activity concentration of hazardous elements such as tritium, cesium-134, cesium-137 and strontium-90 in seawater and marine life samples the country independently collected from waters nearby the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power station.
The samples were collected by domestic laboratories in late February under the framework of the International Atomic Energy Agency, according to a statement released by the China Atomic Energy Authority.
“As China has repeatedly pointed out, a single test result showing no abnormalities does not guarantee that future tests will also be problem-free,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said on Monday, noting that China’s stance against Japan’s discharge of nuclear-contaminated water has never changed.
“We will continue to work with the international community and relevant professional organizations, such as the IAEA, to urge Japan to earnestly fulfill its commitments and ensure that the ocean discharge is under international supervision,” Lin told reporters at a regular news briefing in Beijing.
According to Lin, during the sixth China-Japan High-Level Economic Dialogue held in Tokyo last month, the Japanese side reaffirmed that it will accept long-term international monitoring of its discharge of nuclear-contaminated water and Beijing’s independent sampling and monitoring.
It was based on Japan’s fulfillment of its commitment and the fact that no abnormality was found in the analysis that China’s General Administration of Customs held a technical exchange with the Japanese side in Beijing on March 12 regarding the safety of Japanese seafood, the spokesman said.
“The Chinese government always puts its people above all else and is firmly committed to safeguarding the food safety of its people,” Lin said.
China independently collected the samples in October last year and February, after the Japanese government unilaterally started discharging nuclear-contaminated water into the ocean on Aug 24, 2023.
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MIL-OSI China: At least 21 killed amid major flooding, tornadoes battering US Midwest, South
Source: China State Council Information Office
Photo taken on April 7, 2025 shows a waterlogged area in Frankfort, Kentucky, the United States. [Photo/Xinhua]
At least 21 people have been killed amid fierce storms battering parts of the U.S. Midwest and South with major flooding and powerful tornadoes since Wednesday, according to local media reports on Monday.
Overall, the death toll stood at 10 in Tennessee, three in Missouri, two each in Kentucky, Georgia and Indiana, and one each in Arkansas and Mississippi, said an NBC News report.
The victims included a 9-year-old boy swept away by floodwaters on his way to school in Kentucky, two people killed when a tree fell on them at a golf course in Georgia, a 5-year-old child found in a home in Little Rock, Arkansas, and a 16-year-old volunteer firefighter who died in a car crash when responding to a reported water rescue in Missouri.
AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter said on Monday that it is estimated the economic loss from the severe weather and flooding in recent days is between 80 billion and 90 billion U.S. dollars.
“Unless property owners have specific flood insurance, losses and repairs will most likely not be covered by standard policies,” he said.
As of Monday morning, 18 river gauge sites were at major flood stage, and 256 locations across the central United States were at or above flood stage, spanning multiple rivers and tributaries, according to an AccuWeather report.
Rains have ended over the Tennessee, Ohio and Mississippi river basins, but runoff from 8 to 16 inches of rain over just a few days will continue to surge into larger rivers and lead to moderate to major flooding that could persist for weeks, AccuWeather meteorologists advised.
The amount of rain that fell over a four-day stretch was rare, only occurring once every 100 to 1,000 years over a broad area, based on the historical average, they noted.
Forecasters attributed the recent violent weather to warm temperatures, an unstable atmosphere, strong wind shear and abundant moisture streaming from the Gulf, said a report from the weather.com.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Southeast Asia Poised to Become a Global Hub for Sustainable Aviation Fuel
Source: ASEAN
JAKARTA, 8 April 2025 — Southeast Asia’s abundant agricultural feedstocks offer potential for the region to become a global hub for SAF, according to a joint Canadian-ASEAN research project.
The “Promoting the Production of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) from Agricultural Waste in the ASEAN Region” project marks a significant step towards a more sustainable aviation future in Southeast Asia. It was carried out by the ASEAN Secretariat, GHD, Boeing, Canadian Trade and Investment Facility for Development (CTIF), funded by Global Affairs Canada (GAC), and implemented by Cowater International, the Institute of Public Administrators of Canada (IPAC).
SAF is a renewable or waste-derived aviation fuel that meets sustainability criteria, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and is compatible with existing aircraft and infrastructure, as a “drop-in” fuel. Aviation engines can currently run on a mix of 50% SAF and 50% conventional aviation fuel, but the industry is working towards a 100% SAF mix. SAF lowers carbon emissions over the fuel’s life cycle by up to 80%, depending on the feedstock, with the potential to reduce even more in the future. SAF can be made from a wide variety of sources: cover crops and other nonedible plants, agricultural and forestry waste, non-recyclable municipal waste, industrial plant off-gassing and other feedstocks.
As part of the project, a techno-economic assessment was conducted in Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam, focusing on feedstock availability, technology pathways, carbon intensity, logistics, environmental and social aspects, institutional frameworks, and financial assessment.
With improvements in economic feasibility, SAF production in ASEAN could surpass regional demand, enabling exports both within and beyond ASEAN.
The expansion of SAF feedstock supply is expected to stem from enhanced farming practices and large-scale biomass utilisation rather than land expansion. The report emphasised that mechanisation, improved irrigation, and R&D in crop optimisation could boost feedstock availability without increasing deforestation or land conversion.
Beyond environmental benefits, the project highlighted SAF’s role in fostering gender equality and economic development. The SAF sector offers opportunities for job creation, upskilling, and workforce diversification, with a strong emphasis on inclusive participation of women and marginalised communities.
Deputy Secretary-General for the ASEAN Economic Community, Satvinder Singh, commended the initiative, stating: “This initiative marks a significant step in advancing ASEAN’s commitment to sustainable aviation. By leveraging regional resources and innovation, we are not only addressing environmental challenges but also driving economic growth and enhancing energy security. The successful completion of this project underscores ASEAN’s capacity for effective collaboration in tackling climate challenges while creating new opportunities for our communities.”
CTIF Project Manager Hendry Predy also commented on the initiative stating “CTIF technical assistance supported Southeast Asia countries with a project to improve the ability of the energy sector to assess the reliability of the upstream feedstock supply and the potential for sustained use and production within the region. The recommendations from the proposed project informed on the future development and operation of the pilot areas in selected member countries (Cambodia, Lao PDR, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam) to convert agricultural waste and residues to SAF. The project and recommendations supported the ASEAN Secretariat in ascertaining the reliability of feedstock supply for renewable fuels.”
Sharmine Tan, Boeing’s regional sustainability lead for Southeast Asia said “SAF is the biggest opportunity to cut aviation emissions over the next 30 years. This research highlights Southeast Asia’s rich SAF feedstock potential, positioning the region as a key player in meeting global SAF demand. To unlock this potential, governments and industry must act decisively, harmonise sustainability policies, invest in infrastructure, and scale local production to build a robust regional SAF ecosystem. Southeast Asia has a unique opportunity to lead sustainable aviation while driving economic growth and environmental stewardship.”
Sachin Narang, GHD’s Executive Advisor – Energy and Infrastructure, said, “The successful completion of this project represents a major milestone in ASEAN’s journey toward sustainable aviation. The insights gained will serve as a foundation for future SAF initiatives, investments, and policy development across the region.”
The ASEAN Secretariat, together with its partners, invites continued collaboration with governments, industry leaders, research institutions, and investors to support the regional transition to SAF. Building on the findings of this project, the next phase will focus on areas such as enabling policy development, strengthening technical capacity, and mobilising investment to support SAF deployment, among other collaborative efforts. Together, ASEAN governments, businesses and communities can help shape a sustainable aviation future that contributes meaningfully to regional and global sustainability goals.
The full Techno-Economic Assessment Report for the project can be referred to here: https://asean.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/12634962-RPT-6-Techno-Economic-Assessment-Final-Report_April-2025.pdf
Media contacts:
ASEAN Secretariat
Mustika L. Hapsoro Media Officer, mustika.hapsoro@asean.org
Image Credit: ASEAN Secretariat
The post Southeast Asia Poised to Become a Global Hub for Sustainable Aviation Fuel appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal. -
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – ProCare and Heidi Health partner to ease GP workload and boost patient care
Source: ProCare
In a step toward making healthcare more sustainable and whānau centric, ProCare has partnered with Heidi Health to reduce the administrative burden on GPs, helping them spend more time where it counts – with their patients.
Heidi Health is an AI medical scribe that automates clinical documentation, enabling GPs to generate accurate notes in real-time during patient consultations. It also facilitates the seamless creation of essential documents, such as referral letters and patient summaries, directly from consultation notes.
Bindi Norwell, CEO of ProCare, says: “We want to help equip doctors and nurses with the best tools to support them in their job. AI can transform the way our healthcare staff support their patients by reducing the administrative burden so they can focus on giving their patients the care and support they need.
“At the heart of this partnership is a shared commitment to making healthcare more sustainable and accessible, with a clear focus on relieving the pressures on the primary care workforce, leaving more time for our clinicians to focus on shifting the dial for better health outcomes,” concludes Norwell.
With Heidi’s ambient medical scribe taking detailed notes during the appointment, healthcare staff in the ProCare Network will experience a reduction in administrative tasks, giving them back valuable time to focus on what truly matters – caring for their patients and their communities.
Dr Karl Cole, GP at Papatoetoe Family Doctors, has been using Heidi Health in his practice for more than 12 months, saying: “As a GP, time is one of my most precious resources. The Heidi AI scribe has helped me reclaim that time, making my job more sustainable and efficient.
“I’m spending less time on my screen and more time actually engaging with my patients — it’s been a real game-changer,” says Cole.
Dr. Thomas Kelly, CEO of Heidi Health, adds: “This partnership with ProCare is a pivotal step toward making our technology widely accessible to GPs across Aotearoa, ensuring they are supported in their work while enhancing the quality of care they provide. We are proud to be part of a partnership that values clinician wellbeing and aims to create better, more equitable health outcomes for everyone.”
This partnership arrives at a time when Aotearoa’s healthcare system is facing significant challenges. Clinicians are stretched thin, and burnout is a growing concern. By streamlining the documentation process with AI-powered technology, ProCare in collaboration with Heidi Health aim to help alleviate these pressures, allowing clinicians to engage more meaningfully with patients and improve their overall work-life balance. In doing so, creating a more sustainable and supportive environment for primary care across New Zealand.
About ProCare
ProCare is a leading healthcare provider that aims to deliver the most progressive, pro-active and equitable health and wellbeing services in Aotearoa. We do this through our clinical support services, mental health and wellness services, virtual/tele health, mobile health, smoking cessation and by taking a population health and equity approach to our mahi. As New Zealand’s largest Primary Health Organisation, we represent a network of general practice teams and healthcare professionals who provide care to nearly 700,000 patients across Auckland. These practices serve the largest Pacific and South Asian populations enrolled in general practice and the largest Māori population in Tāmaki Makaurau. For more information go to www.procare.co.nzAbout Heidi Health
Heidi Health’s AI-powered medical scribe streamlines time-intensive administrative tasks to reduce the cognitive load on clinicians. Supporting over one million patient consults per week and empowering clinicians to reclaim their time and deliver world-class patient care across 50 countries, Heidi Health’s technology transcribes and processes conversations between clinicians and patients to produce clinical notes and follow-up materials – from referral letters to assessments.Heidi Health adheres to international standards, including the NHS, HIPAA, GDPR, and Australian Privacy Principles, and has obtained enterprise-grade security certifications such as SOC2 and ISO27001. Founded in 2019 by a team of active and former medical professionals, Heidi is the most loved AI scribe by clinicians of all disciplines and specialties, from Emergency Departments to Neurology to Primary Care to Allied Health. Learn more at: https://www.heidihealth.com/en-nz
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MIL-OSI New Zealand: Global: Recorded executions highest since 2015 – Amnesty International
Source: Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand
Global: Recorded executions hit their highest figure since 2015– Iran, Iraq and Saudi Arabia responsible for 91% of executions– States weaponizing death penalty against protesters and ethnic groups– Rise in drug-related executions in violation of human rightsGlobal executions hit their highest figure since 2015, as over 1,500 people were executed across 15 countries in 2024, said Amnesty International today as it released its annual report on the global use of the death penalty.According to the report, Death Sentences and Executions 2024 , 1,518 executions were recorded in 2024 – the highest number since 2015 (at least 1,634) – with the majority in the Middle East. However, for the second year in a row, countries carrying out executions remained at the lowest point on record.The known totals do not include the thousands of people believed to have been executed in China, which remains the world’s lead executioner, as well as North Korea and Viet Nam which are also believed to resort to the death penalty extensively. Ongoing crises in Palestine (State of) and Syria meant that Amnesty International could not confirm a figure.Iran, Iraq and Saudi Arabia were responsible for the overall rise in known executions. In total, the trio accounted for a staggering 1,380 recorded executions. Iraq almost quadrupled its executions (from at least 16 to at least 63) and Saudi Arabia doubled its yearly total (from 172 to at least 345), while Iran executed 119 more individuals than last year (from at least 853 to at least 972) – accounting for 64% of all known executions.“The death penalty is an abhorrent practice with no place in today’s world. While secrecy continued to shroud scrutiny in some countries that we believe are responsible for thousands of executions, it’s evident that states that retain the death penalty are an isolated minority. With just 15 countries carrying out executions in 2024, the lowest number on record for the second consecutive year, this signals a move away from this cruel, inhuman and degrading punishment,” said Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General.“Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia were responsible for the sharp spike in deaths last year, carrying out over 91% of known executions, violating human rights and callously taking people’s lives for drug-related and terrorism charges.”The five countries with the highest number of recorded executions in 2024 were China, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Yemen.Authorities weaponizing death penaltyThroughout 2024, Amnesty International witnessed leaders weaponizing the death penalty under the false pretence that it would improve public safety or to instil fear among the population. In the USA, which has experienced a steady upward trend in executions since the end of the Covid-19 pandemic, 25 people were executed (against 24 in 2023). Newly elected President Trump repeatedly invoked the death penalty as a tool to protect people “ from violent rapists, murderers, and monsters“. His dehumanizing remarks promoted a false narrative that the death penalty has a unique deterrent effect on crime.In some countries in the Middle East region, death sentences were used to silence human rights defenders, dissidents, protesters, political opponents, and ethnic minorities.“Those who dare challenge authorities have faced the most cruel of punishments, particularly in Iran and Saudi Arabia, with the death penalty used to silence those brave enough to speak out,” said Agnès Callamard.“In 2024, Iran persisted in their use of the death penalty to punish individuals who had challenged the Islamic Republic establishment during the Woman Life Freedom uprising. Last year saw two of those people – including a youth with a mental disability – executed in connection with the uprising following unfair trials and torture-tainted ‘confessions’, proving how far the authorities are willing to go to tighten their grip on power.”Saudi authorities continued to weaponize the death penalty to silence political dissent and punish nationals from the country’s Shi’a minority who supported “anti-government” protests between 2011 and 2013. In August, the authorities executed Abdulmajeed al-Nimr for terrorism-related offences related to joining Al-Qaeda, despite initial court documents referring to his participation in protests.The Democratic Republic of Congo announced its intention to resume executions while Burkina Faso’s military authorities announced plans to reintroduce the death penalty for ordinary crimes.Rise in executions for drug-related offencesOver 40% of 2024’s executions were carried out unlawfully for drug-related offences. Under international human rights law and standards, the use of the death penalty must be restricted for the ‘most serious crimes’ – sentencing people to death for drug-related offences does not meet this threshold.“Drug-related executions were prevalent in China, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Singapore and, while no confirmation was possible, likely Viet Nam . In many contexts, sentencing people to death for drug-related offences has been found to disproportionately impact those from disadvantaged backgrounds, while it has no proven effect in reducing drug trafficking,” said Agnès Callamard.“Leaders who promote the death penalty for drug-related offences are proposing ineffective and unlawful solutions. States considering introducing capital punishment for drug-related offences, such as the Maldives, Nigeria and Tonga, must be called out and encouraged to put human rights at the centre of their drug policies.”The power of campaigningDespite a rise in executions, just 15 countries were known to have carried them out – the lowest number on record for the second consecutive year. As of today, 113 countries are fully abolitionist and 145 in total have abolished the death penalty in law or practice.In 2024, Zimbabwe signed into law a bill that abolished the death penalty for ordinary crimes. For the first time, more than two thirds of all UN member states voted in favour of the tenth General Assembly resolution on a moratorium on the use of the death penalty. Death penalty reforms in Malaysia also led to a reduction by more than 1,000 in the number of people at risk of execution.Furthermore, the world witnessed the power of campaigning. Hakamada Iwao – who spent nearly five decades on death row in Japan – was acquitted in September 2024. This has continued into 2025. In March, Rocky Myers – a Black man sentenced to death in Alabama despite serious flaws in the proceedings – was granted clemency following calls from his family and legal team, a former juror, local activists and the international community.“When people prioritize campaigning for an end to the death penalty, it really does work,” said Agnès Callamard. “Despite the minority of leaders determined to weaponize the death penalty, the tide is turning. It’s only a matter of time until the world is free from the shadows of the gallows.” -
MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Electronics Announces Earnings Guidance for First Quarter 2025
Source: Samsung
Samsung Electronics today announced its earnings guidance for the first quarter of 2025.
Consolidated Sales: Approximately 79 trillion Korean won
Consolidated Operating Profit: Approximately 6.6 trillion Korean won
The above estimates are based on K-IFRS. Please note that Korean disclosure regulations do not allow earnings estimates to be offered as a range. To comply with such regulations, the above figures represent the median of the estimate ranges provided below.
Sales: 78 trillion to 80 trillion Korean won
Operating Profit: 6.5 trillion to 6.7 trillion Korean won
※ 2024 4Q and 2024 1Q consolidated figures based on K-IFRS are as follows(in trillion won)
2024.4Q
2024.1Q
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75.79
71.92
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6.49
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MIL-Evening Report: Open letter to NZME board – don’t allow alt-right Canadian billionaire to take over NZ’s Fourth Estate
NZME directors ‘have concerns’ about businessman Jim Grenon taking editorial control
NZME’s directors have fired their own shots in the war for control of the media company, saying they have concerns about a takeover bid including the risk of businessman Jim Grenon taking editorial control.
In a statement to the NZX, the board said it was delaying its annual shareholders meeting until June and opening up nominations of other directors.
NZME . . . RNZ report on NZME’s directors “firing their own shots in the war for control of the media company”. Grenon, a New Zealand resident since 2012, bought a 9.3 percent stake in NZME for just over $9 million early in March.
NZME is publisher of a number of newspapers, including The New Zealand Herald, as well as operating radio stations and property platform OneRoof.
Within days of taking the stake, Grenon had written to the company’s board proposing that most of its current directors be replaced with new ones, including himself, and said the performance of the company had been disappointing and he was wanted to improve the editorial content.
NZME has now told the stockmarket it had concerns whether Grenon’s proposals were in the best interests of the company and shareholders. — RNZ News
Dear NZME Board,
I was once a columnist for The New Zealand Herald, but I’m too left wing for your stable of acceptable opinions and now just run award-winning political podcasts instead.
The Daily Blog editor and publisher Martyn “Bomber” Bradbury. Image: TDB screenshot APR Normally as board members of a financialised media company in late stage capitalism with collapsing revenue thanks to social media, you don’t generally have to consider the actual well being of our democracy.
Let me be as clear as I can to you all.
You hold in your hands the fate of Fourth Estate journalism and ultimately the democracy of New Zealand itself.
As the largest Fourth Estate platforms in the country, your obligations go well beyond just shareholder profit.
Alt-right billionaire Jim Grenon has in my view been extremely disingenuous.
The manner in which NZME has been sold as underperforming so that the promise of a quick buck from OneRoof seems the focus point is made more questionable because I suspect Grenon’s true desire here is editorial control of NZME.
His relationship with a far-right culture war hate blog that promotes anti-Māori, anti-trans, anti-vaccine, climate denial editorial copy alongside his support for culture war influencers suggest a radicalised view of the world which he intends to implement if he gains control.
Look.
NZME is right wing enough, your first editorial in The New Zealand Herald was calling for white people to start war with Māori, Mike Hosking is the epitome of right wing commentary and the less said about Heather Du Plessis Allan, the better, but all of you acknowledge that 2 + 2 = 4.
Alt-Right billionaires don’t admit that.
Alt-right billionaires tend to lean into divisive culture war rhetoric and are happy to promote 2 + 2 = whatever I say it is.
You cannot allow alt-right billionaires with radicalised culture war beliefs take over the largest media platforms in the country.
This moment demands more than dollars and cents, it requires a strong defence of independent editorial content, even when that editorial content is right wing.
The NZ Herald, Heather and Mike are without doubt right wingers, but they are right wingers who pitch their argument within the realms of the real and factual.
Alt-right billionaires do not do that.
If NZME is taken over and the editorial direction takes a hard right culture war turn, you will be dooming NZ democracy and planing us on a highway to hell.
You must, you must, you must stand against this attack on editorial independence.
Republished from The Daily Blog with permission.
Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz
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MIL-OSI China: Qingming holiday spending mirrors China’s robust economic vitality
Source: China State Council Information Office
Actors in traditional costumes perform for tourists at Zuidongfeng art village in Tancheng County, east China’s Shandong Province, April 6, 2025. China recorded 126 million domestic trips during the three-day Qingming Festival holiday that ended Sunday, a 6.3 percent increase from the previous year, according to data released by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism on Monday. [Photo/Xinhua]
In Liba Village, about 1.5 hours’ drive from downtown Chengdu in southwest China’s Sichuan Province, dozens of steaming hot pot tables dotted the fields, where tourists dined amid a golden sea of yellow blossoms, soaking in the vibrant colors and fragrant spring air.
“Eating hot pot in such a picturesque setting instantly lifted my mood and left me completely relaxed. Savoring spring with a hot pot feast surrounded by flowers was truly unforgettable,” posted a blogger with the username Doufugui on “RedNote” or Xiaohongshu, a Chinese social media platform.
The blogger is one of millions of Chinese who took advantage of the recent Qingming Festival holiday to revel in the joys of spring. With warmer weather and flowers in full bloom, the holiday sparked a wave of enthusiasm for domestic travel across the country.
During the three-day holiday, China recorded 126 million domestic trips, a 6.3 percent increase from the previous year, according to data released by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism on Monday. Tourism revenue also rose, reaching 57.55 billion yuan (about 8 billion U.S. dollars), marking a 6.7 percent year-on-year increase.
Data from online travel platforms showed that searches related to flower viewing during the holiday surged by 2.2 times compared to the same period last year, while searches for camping on the e-commerce platform Meituan skyrocketed by 132 percent.
Chinese train travel, meanwhile, shattered records as more people opted for outdoor getaways. On April 4 alone, China’s railway operator handled 20.09 million passenger trips, the highest single-day figure so far this year.
The holiday also saw a rise in outbound travel, with many Chinese extending their time off by combining the break with annual leave or weekends.
According to Tongcheng Travel, hotel bookings on the platform surged during the holiday period, with Japan seeing a 120 percent year-on-year increase in reservations. European destinations like Spain and Britain experienced an even greater spike, with bookings rising by over 300 percent.
Experts have noted that this year’s Qingming holiday underscores the immense potential in China’s service consumption sector, a key driver of the country’s economic growth.
“The Qingming holiday has traditionally not been a peak travel season, but the tourism market was notably more vibrant this year,” said Xiao Peng, a researcher at Qunar’s Big Data Research Institute.
Xiao noted that silver-haired travelers were among those taking trips this holiday, adding a new dimension to the tourism boom.
For those staying closer to home, the desire for springtime enjoyment was equally evident, with a growing willingness to spend on leisure and recreation.
“All tables for the festival were booked a week in advance,” said the manager of a hotpot restaurant in Changzhou, located in east China’s Jiangsu Province. In the Ronghui old commercial area of Jinan, eastern Shandong Province, even the outdoor dining areas of cafés and bars were bustling as people enjoyed leisurely experiences.
The surge in consumer activity, both in tourism and retail, is partly attributable to China’s focus on boosting domestic consumption. The government has placed significant emphasis on consumption as a primary engine for the country’s economy.
China will “place a stronger economic policy focus on improving living standards and boosting consumer spending,” according to the 2025 government work report. In mid-March, the country released a special action plan outlining key strategies to support consumption.
During the Qingming holiday, various regions implemented measures such as distributing consumption vouchers and launching promotional activities to further stimulate spending, reinforcing the government’s commitment to boosting domestic demand.
“China’s consumer market remains resilient, vast in potential, and full of vitality,” said Li Gang, an official with the Ministry of Commerce. “With sustained efforts to expand consumption policies, the domestic market will maintain stable growth.”
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MIL-OSI: RBB Bancorp to Report First Quarter 2025 Financial Results
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
LOS ANGELES, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RBB Bancorp (NASDAQ: RBB) and its subsidiaries, Royal Business Bank (the “Bank”) and RBB Asset Management Company (“RAM”), collectively referred to herein as the “Company”, today announced that it will release financial results for its first quarter ended March 31, 2025 after the markets close on Monday, April 28, 2025.
Management will hold a conference call at 11:00 a.m. Pacific Time/2:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, April 29, 2025 to discuss the Company’s financial results.
To listen to the conference call, please dial 1-888-506-0062 or 1-973-528-0011, passcode 534591, Conference ID RBBQ125. A replay of the call will be made available at 1-877-481-4010 or 1-919-882-2331, passcode 52277, approximately one hour after the conclusion of the call and will remain available through May 13, 2025.
Additionally, interested parties can listen to a live webcast of the call in the “Investor Relations” section of the Company’s website at www.royalbusinessbankusa.com. This webcast will be recorded and available for replay on the Company’s website approximately two hours after the conclusion of the conference call.
Corporate Overview
RBB Bancorp is a community-based financial holding company headquartered in Los Angeles, California. As of December 31, 2024, the Company had total assets of $4.0 billion. Its wholly-owned subsidiary, Royal Business Bank, is a full service commercial bank, which provides consumer and business banking services predominantly to the Asian-centric communities in Los Angeles County, Orange County, and Ventura County in California, in Las Vegas, Nevada, in Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan in New York, in Edison, New Jersey, in the Chicago neighborhoods of Chinatown and Bridgeport, Illinois, and on Oahu, Hawaii. Bank services include remote deposit, E-banking, mobile banking, commercial and investor real estate loans, business loans and lines of credit, commercial and industrial loans, SBA 7A and 504 loans, 1-4 single family residential loans, trade finance, a full range of depository account products and wealth management services. The Bank has nine branches in Los Angeles County, two branches in Ventura County, one branch in Orange County, California, one branch in Las Vegas, Nevada, three branches and one loan operation center in Brooklyn, three branches in Queens, one branch in Manhattan in New York, one branch in Edison, New Jersey, two branches in Chicago, Illinois, and one branch in Honolulu, Hawaii. The Company’s administrative and lending center is located at 1055 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, California 90017, and its finance and operations center is located at 7025 Orangethorpe Ave., Buena Park, California 90621. The Company’s website address is www.royalbusinessbankusa.com.
Contacts
Lynn Hopkins, EVP and Chief Financial Officer, (657) 255-3282
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MIL-OSI USA: The Chart That Saved Trump’s Life
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Ron Johnson
I’ve been tracking the crisis at our southern border for well over a decade. We are still in the first 100 days of President Trump’s presidency and just look at the tail end of this updated chart. Turns out we didn’t need a new law. All we needed was a new president. We needed President Trump!
April 2 was the one-year anniversary of the day I gave President Trump my border chart on Trump Force One. That was the same chart President Trump was showing the crowd in Butler, Pennsylvania on July 13 when he turned his head to look at the chart and narrowly escaped an assassin’s bullet that grazed his ear.
I’m glad the chart came in handy. God works in mysterious ways.I don’t think Trump voters expected Republicans to continue spending at Biden’s spending levels. If we want to defeat the deep state, we have to stop funding it!
I put together this video to remind my fellow Republicans that many of us agree. We don’t have a revenue problem, we have a spending problem. $7.3 trillion in spending cannot be justified. It’s time to focus on reducing spending and return to a reasonable pre-pandemic level. In 2019, we spent $4.4 trillion. That’s a 63% increase!
Now’s the time to insist on returning to a reasonable pre-pandemic level of spending and a process to achieve it.
READ: Sen. Johnson Op-Ed: Is this Any Way to Run a Budget?
Time for Big Pharma to Come CleanIt is time for Big Pharma to come clean on what and when they knew about mRNA injection adverse events.
As Chairman of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI), I sent letters to Moderna, Pfizer, BioNTech, and Johnson & Johnson seeking records and communications about the development and safety of the COVID-19 vaccines.
These companies received billions of taxpayer dollars to manufacture and deliver COVID-19 vaccines. These federally-funded vaccines have since been associated with reports of myocarditis, pericarditis, thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome, and Guillain-Barré syndrome.
READ: The Federalist: “Sen. Ron Johnson Probes ‘Development’ And ‘Safety’ Of Big Pharma’s Covid Shots”On Triggered with Donald Trump Jr., we talked about Wisconsin’s Supreme Court and why Congress needs to scrutinize spending line-by-line just like a business.
On The Charlie Kirk Show, I talked about the budget process, spending cuts, and the “one big beautiful bill.”
On The Sean Spicer Show, I outlined why we urgently need to return to pre-pandemic spending levels.On March 26, I met with UW-Madison Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin and other UW affiliated research leaders.
On April 1, I met with students from Saint Paul Lutheran School in Bonduel on the Capitol steps during their tour of Washington, D.C.
March 28 was peak bloom for the cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C. There are about 3,800 cherry trees in Washington. In 1912, 3,000 cherry trees were gifted to us by the People of Japan.
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MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Promoting Scottish business and expertise
Source: Scottish Government
Strengthening ties across Asia.
Business Minister Richard Lochhead has begun a visit to China and Japan aimed at deepening economic, social and cultural ties and emphasising that Scotland is open for business.
He will meet government representatives, potential investors and leading companies in both countries. The Minister will also explore opportunities for further collaboration between Scottish and Chinese academic institutions.
China and Japan are increasingly important export markets for Scottish goods, with whisky and seafood exports to China tripling since 2005 and whisky exports to Japan up 7% last year, making it the seventh largest global market in terms of value.
In Japan Mr Lochhead will support eight Scottish gaming companies aiming to capture a portion of Japan’s $50 billion market, backed by the Scottish Government’s business accelerator programme, Techscaler, as they meet potential customers and investors in Tokyo.
He is also launching the first of three days of Scottish activity at Expo 2025 Osaka. The event will showcase Scotland’s gaming sector as well as consumer-focused businesses including distilleries, skincare companies and seafood specialists.
Mr Lochhead said:
“Scotland is open for business and China and Japan are vitally important markets for Scottish companies.
“Over the next two weeks I will champion Scotland’s world class products, universities and technical expertise. I will also be promoting the many investment opportunities that our drive for Net Zero is delivering.
“In an increasingly volatile global economy, it is even more important that we help Scottish companies access new markets and deepen existing trading relationships.”
Background
The Minister is visiting China from 8-12 April and Japan from 12-18 April.
Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai takes place from 13 April to 13 October and is expected to attract about 28 million visitors and more than 150 participating countries.
The Scottish Government and Scottish Enterprise are supporting the three events at the Expo, beginning with a focus on gaming and consumer industries on 17 April at the UK Pavilion. A list of Scottish companies attending is available on Scottish Development International’s website. Further events focusing on the health and offshore wind industries take place in June and September
In China, Mr Lochhead will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Scottish Government Office which opened in 2005. It joined Scottish Enterprise’s international team, which established a presence in China in 2003.
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MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Stars of stage and screen will perform for VE Day 80 anniversary
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press releaseStars of stage and screen will perform for VE Day 80 anniversary
Julian Glover, Siân Phillips, and Joseph Mydell will appear in the National Theatre’s ‘The Next Morning’ to mark VE Day 80
- VE Day 80 concert will be broadcast to millions live on BBC One
- Commonwealth War Graves Commission will bring the Second World War to life through a national touring exhibition
Stars of the stage and screen taking part in plans to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War have been announced today, as we reach one month to go until an unforgettable national event.
The National Theatre’s new film ‘The Next Morning’, written by stage and screen writer James Graham for the occasion, will feature award-winning actors Julian Glover, Siân Phillips, and Joseph Mydell.
Released online on 8 May, the short film will take viewers through a series of intimate, interconnected stories, exploring intergenerational perspectives on the end of the Second World War.
It will connect young people today with the experiences of an older generation, all of whom carry different memories of the war, helping them to understand the resilience of those that came before them, and uncover deeply personal histories that challenge their perceptions of the past. The film will also be made available alongside resources for schools.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said:
It is absolutely right that we ensure that the stories of those who lived through and fought in the Second World War are remembered by generations to come.
Through the National Theatre, the VE Day 80 concert and our UK wide exhibition, we will bring to life the stories of those no longer with us so that the next generation are able to honour their sacrifice and recognise the legacy of peace that they fought to secure.
Elsewhere, stars of stage and screen will take part in a major VE Day 80 concert on Thursday 8 May. The concert will be broadcast live on BBC One at 8pm and will include performances, readings and poignant moments that will tell the story of VE Day and the nation’s reaction to the end of the Second World War 80 years ago.
More than 12,500 people are expected to be be in attendance, including a number of Second World War veterans.Tickets for the VE Day 80 concert are being allocated to people across the country from the networks of organisations connected to VE Day including the Royal British Legion, British Evacuees Association and Commonwealth War Graves Commission. More than 2,500 young people including all 12 Uniformed Youth groups, Duke of Edinburgh ambassadors, #iwill ambassadors and Commonwealth Scholars will also watch the concert live on Horse Guards Parade to ensure that the legacy of the stories of our veterans are saved for the next generation.
To bring the commemorations to communities across the country, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) will kick off the ‘For Evermore Tour’ that will see a UK interactive mobile exhibition bring to life Second World War histories and stories. The tour will begin in Coventry, the city that suffered the single most concentrated air attack on a British city during the Second World War and then travel to iconic locations and landmarks across the UK. Events will be held internationally at several commemorative sites in Hong Kong, Singapore and Thailand, highlighting the global stories of all those who fought for the UK and Commonwealth in the Second World War.
At the heart of the tour is the Commonwealth War Graves’ Torch for Peace, an enduring symbol, honouring the contributions made by individuals, which will act as a baton to pass and share stories to future generations.
The events and exhibitions will run alongside the government’s national programme to mark the 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day which includes a Military procession and flypast of current and historic military aircraft, the return of the poppies to the Tower of London and a nationwide call for families to delve into their lofts and discover their own Second World War stories.
Director General of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Claire Horton CBE said:
Stories of individual people whose lives were cut short by conflict must be told and shared, their contribution provides the human connection to an important aspect of our global history.
For us, the VE and VJ 80th commemorations are a pivotal moment to come together and remember the immense loss of life during the Second World War – a devastating and deadly conflict that impacted people of all ages and from all corners of the world.
At the heart of the tour – and joining many of the national ceremonial events – is the Commonwealth War Graves Torch for Peace. The lit torch is an enduring symbol, honouring the contributions made by individuals, yet it is also a baton to pass the responsibility of commemoration to future generations – helping us acknowledge our shared histories and complex pasts.
As the world wars fade from living memory, we urge everyone to take time to take part in these important commemorations.
Visit the dedicated interactive website ve-vjday80.gov.uk for latest information and ways to get involved.
Updates to this page
Published 8 April 2025 -
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More than 100,000 Baby Loss Certificates have now been issued
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press releaseMore than 100,000 Baby Loss Certificates have now been issued
More than 100,000 baby loss certificates have now been issued to parents who have lost a pregnancy, allowing them to formally recognise their loss.
- Thousands more parents have benefited from the scheme since it was extended in October 2024
- Over 100,000 certificates have now been issued, helping parents formally recognise the loss of baby during pregnancy
- The government remains committed to improving healthcare services and strengthening support for women and their families
More than 100,000 baby loss certificates have now been issued to parents who have lost a pregnancy, allowing them to formally recognise their loss.
Baby loss certificates offer a way of providing comfort and support to bereaved parents, who have gone through an unimaginable loss. They provide acknowledgement that their baby existed and mattered.
Support groups have long campaigned for these certificates and have welcomed this news.
The government is also committed to ensuring bereaved parents are better supported, and that the impact and importance of their loss is recognised.
Work to improve women’s health services and maternity outcomes in ongoing with thousands more midwives trained, and we are committed fulfilling our commitment to closing the Black and Asian maternal mortality gap.
We are making progress already – cutting gynaecology waiting lists through our Plan for Change, boosting menopause support in the workplace, and revolutionising AI cancer screening for breast cancer through our £11 million AI EDITH cancer trial. We are also utilising the independent sector to cut down waiting lists and provide more appointments – this includes for women’s health conditions such as endometriosis and breast cancer.
Health Minister Baroness Gillian Merron said:
Losing a pregnancy can be devastating, and it is important that bereaved parents have the option to formally recognise the existence of their babies.
I would like to pay tribute to the bravery of countless women who have spoken up about their experiences, and to campaigners for their perseverance and great work promoting this service. From meeting with them, I know there is much to do to improve services on the ground.
We will always listen to women and families as we reform our NHS and maternity services, to make sure everyone gets the care and compassion they deserve.
Baby loss certificates were first launched in February 2024 but were only available to those who had experienced a loss since September 2018.
The voluntary service was extended by this government in October 2024 to allow all parents to apply, no matter when they lost their baby.
Sands’ Chief Executive Clea Harmer said:
It’s wonderful that baby loss certificates have enabled so many bereaved parents in England whose lives have been touched by pregnancy loss to get official recognition that their babies existed and matter.
The certificates are an important part of many people’s bereavement journey, and while we recognise they are not something everyone wants, we would like all bereaved parents to have that choice. Sands is here to offer understanding and emotional support for every bereaved parent and family, for as long as they need this.
Baroness Floella Benjamin OM DBE said:
The success of ‘Certificates of Loss’ is heartwarming as this was the vision of Zoe Clark-Coates, founder of the Saying Goodbye charity, almost a decade ago. In parliament I was proud to work with her during those years as I personally knew what it was like to suffer several miscarriages. So applying for my certificates, like thousands of others, brought a great sense of comfort and formal recognition of our babies and I encourage others to so.
I hope this successful initiative will continue to provide solace to millions of parents long into the future.
Lead Bereavement Midwife, George Eliot Hospital, Nuneaton and Co-lead and co-author of the ‘Independent Pregnancy Loss Review’, Samantha Collinge said:
The announcement today that 100,000 baby loss certificates have been issued to parents is a significant milestone, not just for Zoe and myself, the co-chairs and co-authors of the ‘Independent Pregnancy Loss Review’ which recommended this scheme to the government but for the millions of people who have experienced pre-24 weeks baby loss.
The huge number of certificates issued serves to demonstrate the real need for bereaved parents to have official recognition that their babies did exist and that their lives, however brief really do matter.
Being able to signpost families in our care to the certification scheme is a huge step forward for myself and my colleagues in the care that we deliver along the pre -24 week loss pathway and it is truly heartwarming when parents tell me how receiving a certificate in recognition of their precious baby has really helped them in their grief journey.
Zoe Clark-Coates MBE, Co-Chair & Author of The Pregnancy Loss Review
I am deeply moved by the overwhelmingly positive response from bereaved families to the new certificates of loss.
After nearly a decade of leading the campaign for their introduction with Mariposa International (sayinggoodbye.org) and dedicating 5.5 years to co-chairing and authoring the pregnancy loss review where we were able to bring them to pass, I am profoundly relieved and honoured that this vital recognition is now in the hands of those who need it most.
It is heartening to see that our efforts have provided comfort and acknowledgment during the most challenging times, and knowing these certificates will offer solace for decades to come is incredibly moving. We remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting every family on their grief journey.
Vicki Robinson, Chief Executive of the Miscarriage Association, said:
This is an important milestone and one that shows the vital role that recognition, support and understanding play in helping bereaved parents cope with their loss.
However early a pregnancy is lost, it can be felt as a bereavement like any other as people try to come to terms with the end of a very special set of hopes, dreams, and plans for the future.
These certificates provide official recognition that their baby existed, mattered, and will never be forgotten. The positive difference that makes to so many at an extremely distressing time cannot be overstated.
In November, the government announced new regulations which will fortify bread with folic acid, reducing neural tube defects by 20% in the UK. Alongside this, an extra £57 million has been allocated for Start for Life services to help expectant and new mothers with a range of services, from breastfeeding and mental health support.
Background informationAny parent can apply for a certificate following a loss before 24 weeks, or 28 weeks for a loss that happened before October 1992. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age and live in England.
Updates to this page
Published 8 April 2025 -
MIL-OSI United Nations: Myanmar quake: ‘I constantly worry – what if another earthquake happens?’
Source: United Nations 2-b
By Vibhu Mishra
Ten days after the catastrophic quake which struck Myanmar, children remain the most vulnerable – losing their homes, their schools, and in many cases, their families.
The 7.7 magnitude earthquake which struck shortly before 1 PM local time on 28 March, was the strongest in recent memory.
As aftershocks continue, UN agencies are warning of a looming health emergency, with children sleeping in the open, exposed to extreme heat, unsanitary conditions and the constant fear of another disaster.
According to the latest figures, over 3,500 people have died, nearly 5,000 have been injured and more than 200 remain missing.
The UN relief chief, speaking from Myanmar where he is overseeing the aid effort, underscored the Organization’s commitment to help communities in need.
“The United Nations is here – we are going to stay here and we will deliver for them. But we need the world to get behind us, but more importantly, to back this community as they rebuild their lives,” said Tom Fletcher, UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, as he visited neighbourhoods levelled by the disaster in the capital Nay Pyi Taw on Saturday.
He highlighted the need for the international community to step up support, stressing that the most vulnerable have been the most affected.
“One thing that I have been struck by here is that you would think earthquakes hit everyone equally, but they hit the poorest hardest because they do not have the resources to respond, to move house, to live elsewhere, to start to rebuild.”
Education in ruins
The earthquake has dealt a severe blow to Myanmar’s already fragile education system.
According to government reports, at least 1,824 schools have been damaged or destroyed, leaving hundreds of thousands of children without access to education.
With schools reduced to rubble, there is growing concern that many children, especially those in poorer communities, will fall behind in their studies – or never return to school at all.
No quick and easy fixes
There are “no quick and easy fixes,” the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) warns.
“Many children have lost their parents, their friends and they need a place where they can get psychosocial support and begin to feel a sense of normalcy,” Eliana Drakopoulos, Chief of Communications at UNICEF Myanmar, told UN News.
“As hard as that is to imagine…we have to respond to the immediate emergency, but we also have to be here for the long haul to help people recover from this massive tragedy.”
Eliana Drakopoulos, Chief of Communications at UNICEF Myanmar, updates on the situation in the affected areas
Soundcloud
Health risks
The destruction of homes, hospitals and sanitation facilities, combined with heavy rains over the weekend have raised fears of disease outbreaks.
According to the UN World Health Organization (WHO)-led Health Cluster, more than 65 healthcare facilities have been damaged, further complicating the situation. The lack of medical supplies is putting the lives of injured and sick children at even greater risk.
Beyond the physical dangers, children are also dealing with the psychological trauma of the disaster. Many are afraid to sleep indoors, fearing that another earthquake will strike.
Heightened challenges for persons with disabilities
The earthquake’s devastation has disproportionately impacted persons with disabilities who face increased vulnerability due to physical injuries, displacement and disruption of essential services.
According to a UN initial rapid assessment conducted with 15 organizations of persons with disabilities and special schools in Mandalay and Sagaing, 11 of them reported direct impacts. The disaster has also led to a rise in newly acquired disabilities, further straining limited resources.
Preliminary reports indicate families of persons with disabilities have suffered severe hardships, including the collapse of homes, destruction of critical infrastructure such as sanitation facilities and loss of livelihoods.
“I am even afraid to use the toilet, fearing that another earthquake might strike while I am inside,” said one woman living with disability.
“I constantly worry – what if another earthquake happens while I’m inside a damaged house? The fear and anxiety never go away.”
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MIL-OSI New Zealand: MYANMAR: Heavy rains heighten risk of disease outbreaks following earthquake – Save the Children
Source: Save the Children
Children in earthquake affected areas in Myanmar are at heightened risk of contracting waterborne diseases, such as diarrhoea and cholera, after heavy rains in recent days as well as water shortages, Save the Children warned.Save the Children and its partners are seeing the needs of children firsthand in communities with limited access to clean water in the aftermath of the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake on 28 March.In some areas, access to safe water has been severely disrupted with some primary water sources now contaminated and people forced to rely on spring or surface water. In the hardest hit areas, damaged pipelines have also cut access to spring water and rivers are far away. The lack of electricity in some areas has made it impossible to pump water.Many families are living in makeshift shelters outside the ruins of their homes which give little protection from unseasonable storms of recent days. The rains are also exacerbating the risk of water and mosquito-borne diseases with pools of dirty, stagnant water. More rain is forecast for this week in areas where thousands of people are sleeping in the open [1].Families are telling Save the Children that food and drinking water are their urgent priorities, but that they also need repairs to toilets and washing facilities which are crucial to limiting the spread of water and mosquito borne disease such as cholera and dengue and skin infections.Myanmar has seen outbreaks of diseases such as acute watery diarrhoea and cholera before, and current emergency water supplies to affected areas are only a short-term solution. In the longer term, communities need sustainable and reliable sources of water.Thein Htike-, 20, was in a small boat on a lake when the quake struck, throwing him and his friends overboard. While he was swimming to shore, he saw wooden houses in his village collapsing. His family were safe, but many people died or were injured, and nearly every family in his village lost their belongings.Thein Htike- said:“Our drinking water storage tank had collapsed, and we were left without safe water to drink. Donations didn’t arrive for two days. Until then, we had to filter the muddy water [from the lake] which used to be clean. Either way, we had no choice but to drink what we had, safe or not.”After the quake, dead snails began floating on the surface [of the lake]. Some people said it was because of oxygen loss in the water, killing the aquatic life, but I’m not sure if that’s true.“After two days, we got some clean drinking water, but once those supplies run out, we will face a serious crisis. Without long-term support, the lack of clean water may lead to long-term health problems in the village.”Last year, Thein Htike-’s village was hit by devasting floods, and they were only beginning to recover when the earthquake hit. Conflict and climate fueled disasters have left 6.3 million children among the 19.9 million people – or more than one third of the population – already in need of humanitarian support in Myanmar before the earthquake [2].More than 17 million people across 57 townships of Myanmar’s 330 townships have been affected by the earthquake, according to the UN, with at least 3,500 people killed and nearly 5,000 injured [3].The Department of Disaster Management and AHA Centre said about 69,000 people have been displaced by the earthquake [4].Save the Children is responding in the earthquake affected areas alongside local partners to ensure children’s immediate needs are met, including food, water, shelter, personal hygiene kits and emergency health care services.Jeremy Stoner, Interim Asia Regional Director, Save the Children said:“The situation right now is desperate for children and their families. After being forced to flee from their ruined homes, they are now facing unseasonably early rains on top of the brutal heat. With clean water in short supply, it’s difficult for people to maintain proper hygiene – and that can lead to disease outbreaks. “We’re concerned that we could start seeing a growing number of children getting sick with illnesses like diarrhoea, as is often the case in the aftermath of crises like this where the scale of damage is so high.”Save the Children has been working in Myanmar since 1995, providing life-saving healthcare, food and nutrition, education and child protection programmes.Notes-denotes name changed to protect identity[2] https://reliefweb.int/report/myanmar/myanmar-humanitarian-needs-and-response-plan-2025-december-2024About Save the Children NZ:Save the Children works in 120 countries across the world. The organisation responds to emergencies and works with children and their communities to ensure they survive, learn and are protected.Save the Children NZ currently supports international programmes in Fiji, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Laos, Nepal, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. Areas of work include child protection, education and literacy, disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation, and alleviating child poverty. -
MIL-OSI Submissions: Global Economy – China braces for tariff shock with strategic policy measures, says GlobalData
Source: GlobalDataFollowing President Donald Trump’s announcement of sweeping unprecedented tariffs on Chinese imports;
Arnab Nath, Associate Project Manager, Business Fundamentals at GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, offers his view:
“In a move set to redefine global trade dynamics, the US President Donald Trump has announced a sweeping 34% hike in tariffs on Chinese imports—bringing the total tariff burden to 54%. These measures, scheduled to take effect from 09 April 2025, follow the rollout of a broader 10% universal tariff on all US imports, effective 05 April. GlobalData forecasts China’s GDP growth to slow to 4.2% in 2025 and 4.1% in 2026, down from 4.8% in 2024, amid these tariffs and ongoing domestic challenges such as a property market downturn and weak consumer demand.
“In response, China announced to impose a 34% retaliatory tariff on all US imports starting 10 April, alongside immediate restrictions on exports of seven rare earth minerals vital to global supply chains. The moves mark a significant escalation in US-China trade tensions, reviving fears of a full-blown trade war like the 2018-19 standoff. With Chinese goods exports to the US totalling $524.9 billion in 2024 (ITC Trade Map data), key sectors—electronics, machinery, and consumer goods—face significant headwinds in the coming 12 months.
“To offset the economic impact, Beijing is preparing macroeconomic support. Policymakers may reduce the reserve requirement ratio (RRR), cut interest rates, and boost fiscal spending through special treasury bonds and deficit financing. These efforts aim to stimulate domestic demand and safeguard market confidence.
“Despite the near-term strain, China is accelerating trade diversification, enhancing links with ASEAN, Latin America, and the Middle East. While exporters—especially SMEs—may face immediate pressure, China’s fiscal and monetary readiness positions it to weather this shock and recalibrate global trade relationships.”
About GlobalData
4,000 of the world’s largest companies, including over 70% of FTSE 100 and 60% of Fortune 100 companies, make more timely and better business decisions thanks to GlobalData’s unique data, expert analysis and innovative solutions, all in one platform. GlobalData’s mission is to help our clients decode the future to be more successful and innovative across a range of industries, including the healthcare, consumer, retail, financial, technology and professional services sectors.
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MIL-OSI USA: Senators Moran, Rosen and Reps. Wasserman Schultz, Max Miller Introduce Fallen Servicemembers Religious Heritage Restoration Act
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23)
“It is critical that Jewish Americans who served our nation in uniform and paid the ultimate price are able to be laid to rest honoring their religious heritage,” said Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz. “Unfortunately, due to the fog of war, there were hundreds of Jewish servicemembers who were improperly buried under Latin crosses in American Battle Monuments Commission cemeteries. This bill is an important step to allow more descendants of these brave Jewish servicemembers the resources needed to properly honor their loved one’s military service, life, and religious heritage.”
Washington DC – Today, U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS), Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) and Max Miller (OH-07) will file legislation to help ensure hundreds of fallen American-Jewish servicemembers are buried under military grave markers that represent their true religion and heritage.
“It is critical that Jewish Americans who served our nation in uniform and paid the ultimate price are able to be laid to rest honoring their religious heritage,” said Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz. “Unfortunately, due to the fog of war, there were hundreds of Jewish servicemembers who were improperly buried under Latin crosses in American Battle Monuments Commission cemeteries. This bill is an important step to allow more descendants of these brave Jewish servicemembers the resources needed to properly honor their loved one’s military service, life, and religious heritage.”
“Every American who puts on the uniform deserves to be remembered with dignity and respect. Many brave servicemembers made the ultimate sacrifice while defending freedom in World War I and World War II—but due to clerical errors or concerns for their safety during service, their religious identities were not properly recorded,” said Congressman Miller. “This bill is a meaningful step to correct those errors and ensure these heroes are laid to rest with the honor and dignity they deserve.”
“We owe a debt we can never repay to those who have given their last full measure of devotion on behalf of our nation and the freedoms we cherish, religious liberty being chief among them,” said Senator Moran. “This legislation makes certain that the religious heritage of those who have died for our country, particularly Jewish-American servicemembers, is rightfully represented at their final resting places, providing their survivors with assurance that their loved one’s faith is being acknowledged and memorialized with accuracy.”
“Our nation has a duty to fully honor the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedoms,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m proud to join Senator Moran in introducing this bipartisan legislation to correct the headstones of servicemembers by ensuring that the religious affiliation of our fallen is properly and accurately recognized.”
Due to the sheer scale of burials that occurred during World War I and II, hundreds of American-Jewish servicemembers killed in action were improperly buried under Latin Cross grave markers, rather than Stars of David. It is estimated that as many as 600 remain that way today.
Clerical errors are to blame for many of the improper burials, but some are due to the fact that American-Jewish soldiers did not want to publicly display their faith on dog tags as they fought against Nazi Germany.
To replace a grave marker at American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC) cemeteries, the next of kin must present the ABMC with evidence of the decedent’s religious heritage and submit a grave marker change request. However, without resources, this process can be difficult for families. This legislation would create the “Fallen Servicemembers Religious Heritage Restoration Program,” to award contracts to nonprofits to identify and research American-Jewish servicemembers buried in ABMC cemeteries under grave markers that do not represent the proper religion and heritage. It authorizes $500,000 per year for 10 years for the program.
This bill is supported by Jewish Federations of North America, the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Gold Star Spouses of America, Jewish War Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Aleph Institute, the Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA), Vietnam Veterans of America, the American Legion, and the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS).
“Congress found that approximately 900 American Jewish service members are inappropriately buried under Latin cross headstones in overseas U.S. military cemeteries,” said Nancy Springer, National Legislative Service Associate Director, of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. “To remedy this longstanding issue, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) supports the Fallen Servicemembers Religious Heritage Restoration Act to identify improperly marked graves, verify the religious heritage of the deceased, and enable descendants to request a replacement Star of David headstone. American Jewish service members who fought and died for our country deserve to have their heritage properly recognized and honored. The VFW applauds Chairman Moran and Senator Rosen for introducing this important legislation and calls for its swift passage.”
“The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) is proud to support the Fallen Servicemembers Religious Heritage Restoration Act,” said Bonnie Carroll, President and Founder of TAPS. “We appreciate Chairman Moran and Senator Rosen, and Representatives Wasserman Schultz and Miller for their steadfast commitment to recognizing and honoring the personal faith of those who gave all in service to our nation.”
“Gold Star Spouses of America strongly supports the establishment of the Fallen Servicemembers Religious Heritage Restoration Program. Ensuring that all servicemembers are honored according to their faith and heritage is a critical step in preserving their dignity and respecting the wishes of their families,” said Tamra Sipes, National President of Gold Star Spouses of America. “This bill would provide much-needed resources to correct historical oversights and honor the legacies of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.”
“A fallen service member has earned the right to have their personal faith properly preserved, this bill is critical to ensuring that is done,” said Robert Olivarez, National Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart.
“The Vietnam Veterans of America strongly supports this honorable effort to restore the appropriate faith to our fallen service members markers,” said Jack McManus, National President of Vietnam Veterans of America. “This is owed to our fallen patriots and absolutely must be done.”
“The Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) proudly stands in support of the Fallen Servicemembers Religious Heritage Restoration Act. This important legislation reaffirms the fundamental right of fallen service members to have their religious beliefs respectfully acknowledged in memorial displays and commemorative settings across the nation,” said Levi Sadr, Director of Government Affairs at the Non Commissioned Officers Association. “As an organization that represents the voice, service, and sacrifice of enlisted personnel past and present, we believe that honoring the faith traditions of those who have given their lives in service to our country is a matter of dignity, respect, and historical truth. The religious symbols and heritage reflected in many memorials are not only consistent with the personal beliefs of the fallen, but are also longstanding expressions of the values held by generations of service members. This legislation safeguards those expressions from unnecessary censorship and ensures that the legacy of the fallen is preserved in a way that is meaningful to their families, communities, and fellow service members. It also protects the freedom of religious expression in a manner that is inclusive, respectful, and consistent with our Constitution. The NCOA urges lawmakers to pass the Fallen Servicemembers Religious Heritage Restoration Act and to affirm the enduring principles of honor, remembrance, and religious liberty that this nation was built upon.”
“JWV fully endorses the Fallen Servicemembers Religious Heritage Restoration Program Act, legislation that creates a program within the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC) to recognize and identify Jewish servicemembers improperly buried in ABMC cemeteries,” said Jewish War Veterans National Commander Gary Ginsburg, USA (retired). “Congress must establish this meaningful $500,000 annual grant for ten years to ensure that Jewish servicemembers killed in action and currently buried under a Latin Cross will be properly buried under a Star of David grave marker. Now is the time for Congress to act and provide proper recognition of these heroes’ religious and heritage significance. JWV commends Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Max Miller, and SVAC Chairman Jerry Moran, and Sen. Jacky Rosen for their leadership in introducing the legislation in the House and Senate. We look forward to working with them on the swift enactment of this legislation and partnering with ABMC on awarding grants to nonprofit organizations.”
“Nearly 11,000 Jewish American soldiers gave their lives during World War II, but many still haven’t received proper burials, laying under a Latin Cross rather than a Star of David. Jewish Federations proudly support this bill to fund the painstaking research in identifying American-Jewish soldiers improperly buried overseas,” said Karen Paikin Barall, Vice President, Government Relations for Jewish Federations of North America. “Whether they died for their country during the Battle or Normandy or the Battle of Manila, each deserves to rest under the marker that not only represents their religion, but their heritage.”
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MIL-OSI: Helium Evolution Announces Expansion of ENEOS Xplora Financing
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES
CALGARY, Alberta, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Helium Evolution Incorporated (TSXV:HEVI) (“HEVI” or the “Company”), a Canadian-based helium exploration company focused on developing assets in southern Saskatchewan, is pleased to announce a $1.8 million expansion of the initial financing of $2.7 million with ENEOS Xplora Inc. (“ENEOS Xplora”) through its affiliated company, ENEOS Xplora USA Limited (“ENEOS USA”), as first announced on March 10, 2025. This expanded investment will bring ENEOS Xplora’s total investment in the Company to $4.5 million. ENEOS Xplora and ENEOS USA are both wholly owned subsidiaries of ENEOS Group, Japan’s largest energy, resources and materials conglomerate with current revenue of $91 billion USD.
This expanded financing continues to mark a significant milestone in HEVI’s strategic growth trajectory within the helium sector, further strengthening the Company’s financial foundation and unlocking new opportunities for both companies. The deal underscores the Company’s increasing momentum and its position as a leader in the Canadian helium exploration market.
Private Placement
HEVI and ENEOS USA have signed an investment agreement (the “Investment Agreement”) that includes a private placement of 9,422,000 units (“Units”) at a price of $0.19 per Unit (the “Offering Price”), for total gross proceeds of $1.8 million (the “Strategic Investor Private Placement”). Each Unit will be comprised of one common share of the Company (each, a “Unit Share”) and one half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a “Warrant”). Each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to acquire one common share of the Company (each, a “Warrant Share”) at a price of $0.305 for a period of one year from the Closing Date, as defined herein, with an acceleration feature if the closing price over a 30-day period remains at or above $0.57 per common share at any time following the six-month anniversary of the Closing Date.
Additionally, HEVI plans to conduct a concurrent private placement of 1,000,000 Units at the Offering Price raising approximately $0.2 million (the “Concurrent Private Placement” and together with the Strategic Investor Private Placement, the “Offering”), involving Units sold to insiders of HEVI. Together, these transactions represent a robust investment in the Company’s future growth.
Following the closing of the Offering, ENEOS USA will own approximately 28% of HEVI’s issued and outstanding shares on a diluted basis as a result of which ENEOS USA will become a Control Person of the Company (as such term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (the “TSXV”)). As required by the policies of the TSXV, HEVI intends to seek approval for ENEOS USA to become a Control Person at the Company’s upcoming annual general meeting scheduled for May 21, 2025 (the “Control Person Resolution”).
The net proceeds from the Offering will be used to fund HEVI’s 2025 exploration and development program and for general corporate purposes. If shareholders approve the Control Person Resolution, the Offering is expected to close on or about May 31, 2025 (the “Closing Date”), subject to requisite approvals by the TSXV. The Unit Shares, Warrants and Warrant Shares issued pursuant to the Strategic Investor Private Placement will be subject to a six month hold period from the Closing Date, in accordance with the terms of the Investment Agreement. Unit Shares, Warrants and Warrant Shares issued pursuant to the Concurrent Private Placement will be subject to a statutory holder period of four months plus one day.
HEVI’s Remarks
“We are thrilled to expand our strategic partnership with ENEOS Xplora, a globally recognized leader in energy resources,” said Greg Robb, CEO of HEVI. “This expanded investment further strengthens our position in the helium market, enabling us to accelerate our exploration and development initiatives. With the support of ENEOS, we are poised for significant growth as we work toward becoming a leading supplier of sustainably-produced helium to meet the rising global demand.”
About ENEOS Xplora
ENEOS Xplora is engaged in the development and production of oil and natural gas in Japan and around the world as one of the principal operating companies of the ENEOS Group, Japan’s largest energy, resources and materials conglomerate.
In response to the global movement towards carbon neutrality, ENEOS Xplora is promoting a “Two Pronged” approach, through which ENEOS Xplora aims to cultivate and enhance environment-friendly business as well as focus on their conventional oil and natural gas development and production.
While the safe and stable supply of energy has always been and will continue to be ENEOS Xplora’s mission, in order to create greater social value within the carbon neutral trend, guided by its corporate philosophy, “Explore the EARTH and Create Value” ENEOS Xplora will leverage its subsurface technology and innovative creativity to be a key player working towards a sustainable society.
1. Company name ENEOS Xplora Inc. 2. Address ENEOS Building, 1-1-2 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan 3. President Toshiya Nakahara 4. Capital JPY 37.6 billion 5. Description of business Exploration for and development of oil, natural gas, and other mineral resources; extraction, processing, storage, sale, and shipment of petroleum, natural gas, and other mineral resources and their secondary products; carbon dioxide capture, transport, storage, and utilization
About Helium Evolution IncorporatedHelium Evolution is a Canadian-based helium exploration company holding the largest helium land rights position in North America among publicly-traded companies, focused on developing assets in southern Saskatchewan. The Company has over five million acres of land under permit near proven discoveries of economic helium concentrations which will support scaling the exploration and development efforts across its land base. HEVI’s management and board are executing a differentiated strategy to become a leading supplier of sustainably-produced helium for the growing global helium market.
Stay Connected to Helium Evolution
Shareholders and other parties interested in learning more about the Helium Evolution opportunity are encouraged to visit the Company’s website, which includes an updated corporate presentation, and are invited to follow the Company on LinkedIn and X for ongoing corporate updates and helium industry information. Helium Evolution also provides an extensive, commissioned ‘deep-dive’ research report prepared by a third party whose background includes serving as a research analyst for several bank-owned and independent investment dealers.
For further information, please contact:
Statement Regarding Forward-Looking InformationThis news release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements.” Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates,” “projects,” “potential” and similar expressions, or that events or conditions “will,” “would,” “may,” “could” or “should” occur.
Forward-looking statements in this document include statements regarding the Company’s expectations regarding the closing of the transactions disclosed in the news release including the completion of the Offering (including the approval of the TSXV and the Control Person Resolution with respect thereto), the use of proceeds from the Offering, the benefits of the strategic partnership to the Company, the Company becoming a leading supplier of sustainably-produced helium, ENEOS USA’s ownership of the Company following the Closing Date, the Company’s beliefs regarding growth of the global helium market and other statements that are not historical facts. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors and risks include, among others: the TSXV may refuse to grant approval of the Offering; the shareholders may not approve the Control Person Resolution; the transactions described in this news release may not close; the Company may reallocate the proceeds of the Offering for reasons that management believes are in the Company’s best interests; the Company may not realize the benefits of the strategic partnership described in this news release; the Company may choose to defer, accelerate or abandon its exploration and development plans; new laws or regulations and/or unforeseen events could adversely affect the Company’s business and results of operations; stock markets have experienced volatility that often has been unrelated to the performance of companies and such volatility may adversely affect the price of the Company’s securities regardless of its operating performance; risks generally associated with the exploration for and production of resources; constraint in the availability of services; commodity price and exchange rate fluctuations; adverse weather or break-up conditions; and uncertainties resulting from potential delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures.
When relying on forward-looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and risks other uncertainties and potential events. The Company has assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraphs will not cause such forward-looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.
This news release is not for distribution to U.S. news services or for dissemination in the United States. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”) or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.
Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
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MIL-OSI United Nations: World News in Brief: Syria transition update, healthcare as a human right, more than 2,000 killed and injured in Haiti this year
Source: United Nations 4
Peace and SecurityUN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, issued a statement on Monday following his latest “extensive discussions” with leader of the caretaker administration in Damascus, Ahmed al-Sharaa.
The envoy expressed his appreciation noting they had talked through “all aspects” of the ongoing political process, following the overthrow of the Assad regime in December last year.
Mr. Pedersen stressed the need to ease sanctions on Syria, emphasising the importance of a stable economy.
They also discussed the importance of a “transparent framework for the process of selecting and electing an interim people’s assembly” and next steps towards a democratic and inclusive future.
The top UN envoy highlighted the need to prevent any renewed cycle of violence, in the light of the mass killings of Alawite community members last month in several coastal towns.
He also reiterated his “condemnation of Israel’s repeated attacks and interventions” inside Syria.
End ‘indefinite detention’ of detainees
In a joint statement on Monday a group of independent UN human rights experts said the transition period provides a “valuable opportunity” to end the arbitrary, inhumane and indefinite detention of around 52,000 detainees who have been held for years in the northeast, in relation to alleged ties with the ISIL terrorist group.
They noted the agreement of 10 March between the interim administration and the largely Kurdish Syrian Democratic Forces who guard the detainees, paving the way for the armed group to integrate with new national institutions.
Around 9,000 male ISIL suspects are detained without due process, including 5,400 Syrians, 1,600 Iraqis, and some 1,500 from 50 other countries. The vast majority of these detainees continue to be held incommunicado without information on their fate or whereabouts, the experts said.
In addition, some 42,500 individuals are arbitrarily held in camps, including family members and ISIL associates. Many have been held without legal process for at least six years.
“Tens of thousands of innocent children have suffered physical violence and psychological harm, when they should be assisted as victims of terrorism and serious human rights violations,” the experts added.
Special Rapporteurs and other UN Human Rights Council-appointed experts are not UN staff, receive no salary for their work and are independent of any organisation or government.
‘Let us be bold’: Global leaders reaffirm health as a human right
Progress towards the universal healthcare goal has been undeniable: barriers to health services, education and family planning have been almost completely removed, The UN says.
But on Monday, health ministers, ambassadors and civil society experts gathered at UN Headquarters in New York amid concerns that gains are being reversed, issuing a resounding call to place human health and dignity at the heart of sustainable development.
Convening the 58th session of the Commission on Population and Development (CPD58) they stressed the urgency of providing universal access to quality health care – reaffirming commitments to the Programme of Action established at the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD).
‘Health is not a privilege’
Katja Lasseur, Chair of the 58th session, welcomed over 120 Member States, observers and nearly 50 NGOs, highlighting the momentum behind the week’s discussions. “Health is not a privilege,” she declared. “It is a human right and a prerequisite for sustainable development.”
Real progress has been achieved since 2000. Life expectancy has increased by 10 years in Africa and nine years in South Asia. At the same time, child mortality has dropped by more than half and cases of HIV have dropped by 50 per cent.
“These gains demonstrate what is possible with sustained political will and investment,” emphasised Guy Ryder, Under-Secretary-General for Policy, Warning that progress has been “uneven.”
“Health related targets, including universal health coverage, remain within reach,” he said, but they require urgent and equitable investment, particularly in primary health care and health coverage.
Over 1,500 people killed in Haiti since start of 2025: UN mission
Between 1 January and 27 March in Haiti, at least 1,518 people were killed and 572 injured in attacks by armed gangs, security operations and other acts of violence perpetrated by self-defence groups.
That’s according to a new report from the UN Mission in Haiti (BINUH) which details the “grim” impact of violence since the beginning of the year, said UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric briefing journalists in New York.
The report reveals repeated attacks in the rural areas of Kenscoff and some neighbourhoods of Carrefour – two communes in the metropolitan area of the capital, Port-au-Prince – resulting in serious human rights abuses.
According to UN partners, gang members displayed extreme brutality, with the aim of instilling fear on the population. They executed men, women and children inside their homes and shot people on roads and paths as they tried to flee the violence, including an infant.
“At the same time, sexual violence was committed against at least seven women and young girls during the planning and execution of those attacks by gang members,” reported Mr. Dujarric.
The gangs ransacked several homes and set fire to more than 190 of them, which coupled with the violence has now forced more than 3,000 people to flee their localities.
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MIL-OSI: Nestpoint Group Fuels Univest Securities, LLC’s Ascent to Investment Banking Powerhouse in Trump’s Economic Golden Age
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
New York, New York, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Univest Securities, LLC (“Univest”), New York’s premier boutique investment bank, is proud to announce a strategic investment from Nestpoint Group (“Nestpoint”), a leading firm in government affairs, finance, and private equity based in Dallas and Washington, D.C. This powerhouse partnership positions Univest to rise as a global investment banking leader, harnessing unparalleled opportunities for economic expansion under the Trump administration’s bold vision for American prosperity.
Nestpoint, with its America First approach and deep roots in Washington, D.C., is a strategic ally at the intersection of international advocacy and financial innovation. Renowned for its ability to influence policy, navigate regulatory complexities, and drive transformative growth, Nestpoint pairs its expertise with Univest’s 31-year legacy of excellence in investment banking—spanning mergers and acquisitions, capital markets advisory, and private/public capital raises. Together, they form a dynamic force ready to tackle the challenges of global trade and regulatory uncertainty.
Henry Huang, Managing Director of Nestpoint, celebrated the alliance: “Univest Securities is a standout in the boutique investment banking world—a proven leader with exceptional talent and vision. We’re thrilled to supercharge their trajectory with our unique blend of government affairs mastery, global relationships and financial firepower. From D.C. to New York, this partnership will redefine what’s possible, positioning Univest as the next major investment bank and delivering on President Trump’s promise of rapid economic growth like never before.”
Stuart Jolly, Nestpoint’s Director of Government Affairs & Global Strategies and former National Field Director for President Trump’s campaign, emphasized the partnership’s alignment with national priorities: “Having worked closely with President Trump to secure his vision for America, I see this alliance as a game-changer. Nestpoint’s government expertise and Univest’s financial prowess create the perfect engine to drive President Trump’s economic agenda forward—unlocking opportunities for businesses to thrive in this golden age of American leadership.”
Edric Guo, Chief Executive Officer of Univest, echoed the excitement: “Partnering with Nestpoint is a transformative step for Univest. Their unparalleled government relations capabilities and strategic insight open doors for our clients like never before. Together, we’re not just expanding our reach—we’re building a platform to lead the charge in global trade and economic innovation, perfectly timed with the administration’s bold direction.”
This alliance delivers unmatched value: Nestpoint’s extensive network of clients will tap into Univest’s elite financial services, while Univest’s current and future clients gain access to Nestpoint’s D.C.-honed expertise in overcoming regulatory hurdles and trade complexities. With a significant presence in the nation’s capital, Nestpoint is uniquely equipped to influence policy and public perception, ensuring clients thrive in the U.S. market and beyond. In what many are calling the “golden age,” this partnership arrives at the perfect moment to accelerate economic expansion and fulfill the Trump administration’s ambitious goals.
Univest Securities, headquartered in New York with a robust reach across North America and Asia Pacific, joins forces with Nestpoint’s global operations to create a seamless bridge between financial strategy and government advocacy. This collaboration marks Univest’s ascent as a dominant player in New York’s financial landscape, with a shared mission to solve global trade challenges and drive lasting economic impact.
About Univest Securities, LLC
Founded in 1994, Univest Securities is a boutique full-service investment bank headquartered in New York. With a strong presence in North America and Asia Pacific, Univest provides comprehensive financial services, including investment banking, capital markets, and wealth management, to clients worldwide. For more information about Univest Securities, LLC, visit https://www.univest.us/.
About Nestpoint Group
Nestpoint Group, with a global footprint, and a formidable presence in Washington, D.C., is a leading government affairs, finance and private equity firm. As a strategic ally, Nestpoint transforms challenges into opportunities through its expertise in policy influence, global networks, and financial innovation, delivering customized solutions for sustained client success. Nestpoint advises multibillion-dollar companies in the manufacturing, energy, and technology sectors as well as foreign nations. For more information about Nestpoint, visit https://www.nestpointgroup.com/.
For more information, please contact:
Univest Securities, LLC
Edric Guo
Chief Executive Officer
75 Rockefeller Plaza, Suite 18C
New York, NY 10019
Phone: (212) 343-8888
Email: info@univest.us -
MIL-OSI United Nations: Aid data critical to crisis response threatened by funding cuts
Source: United Nations 2
Humanitarian AidThe gathering of data which is essential for an effective response during a humanitarian crisis – and can help save lives – is under increasing threat due to global funding cuts, according to the UN’s humanitarian coordination office, OCHA.
“Data is central to humanitarian action,” OCHA said, as aid organizations look to “focus their response to reach the communities with the most severe needs.”
In its latest report on the State of Open Humanitarian Data OCHA said that “as the humanitarian system severely contracts due to unprecedented funding cuts and threats to principled humanitarian action, the data ecosystem that supports it will experience the same pressure.”
Budget cuts threatening aid as a whole have had a devastating impact on data gathering, impeding an effective humanitarian response.
The data gathered by the United Nations and its partners covers a broad range of issues including, for example, climate hazards such as droughts, floods and storms.
Information on rainfall, temperatures, the extent of floods and the impact on agriculture during those extreme weather events can provide important indicators including the number of people expected to be affected or displaced and ultimately help to save lives.
Cameroon floods
In 2024, ahead of the rainy season in Cameroon, the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) partnered with the OCHA Cameroon Office to estimate flood exposure and track it in near-real time.
The Centre predicted that about 350,000 people would be exposed to the flooding, as the season progressed, over 356,000 people were affected.
The analysis supported a timely allocation of $4 million from CERF which provided help to 176,500 affected people in the most vulnerable areas.
Humanitarian Data Exchange
In 2024, some 216 organizations shared around 2,500 data sets covering crises ranging from Afghanistan to Gaza and Sudan, information which is collected in the Humanitarian Data Exchange or HDX.
Over the last year, the HDX was consulted more than 1.4 million times by researchers in over 200 countries in territories.
Its almost 20,000 datasets were downloaded 3.5 million times – a 30 per cent increase from 2023.
The information, OCHA said, provides a “foundational set of data that is critical to understand a humanitarian context.”
Countries such as Colombia, Afghanistan and South Sudan had the highest percentage of timely data on HDX. On the other hand, Myanmar and the State of Palestine were the locations with the lowest availability level.
In light of recent aid cuts, “the year ahead promises to be challenging for data availability,” OCHA adding that it was calling on “governments and partners to continue investing in the data that underpins crisis response in what is surely a defining moment for the sector.”
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MIL-OSI: Rumble & Rebel News sue MP Saks & others for conspiring to violate free speech rights
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
TORONTO, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rumble Canada, (NASDAQ: RUM), the high-growth video platform and cloud services provider, has joined Rebel News Network and its founder, Ezra Levant, in suing the government of Canada, Member of Canadian Parliament Ya’ara Saks, and other officials, for conspiring to deprive them of their constitutional right to free expression. The lawsuit, filed today in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, alleges that the defendants unsuccessfully tried to block two lawful and peaceful public gatherings celebrating free speech in the Toronto area last year simply because they disagreed with the political points of view of the organizers and participants. The suit alleges that the officials tried to thwart the events, which included Donald J. Trump Jr. as a featured speaker, by imposing unreasonably high charges for security measures that were not needed and designed only to prevent the events from taking place. The plaintiffs are seeking reimbursement in the amount of $37,177.80 for the excessive security costs, $250,000 in punitive damages, and legal expenses, and have requested a trial in Toronto.
Specifically, the suit alleges that the defendants tried to scuttle the events, promoted as “Rumble Live” and “Rebel News Live” on May 10 & 11, 2024, by enforcing unjustifiable fees for security measures they knew were unnecessary and exorbitant. The gatherings were planned and held by the two companies after they entered into a lawful contract to rent a venue in North York, Ontario that typically hosts wedding receptions and other private events.
Referencing internal communications, the complaint alleges that the defendants had been told by local police there was no indication of planned protests or threats of unrest or violence surrounding the gatherings, yet they still imposed outrageously high security charges—more than the cost of putting on the events themselves—in a failed attempt to derail the festivities. More emails make the case that officials worked on ways to shut down the celebrations based on the political beliefs of the people they expected to be involved.
“If it happens on or near our property, we might attract an undesirable crowd,” wrote one official in an email to colleagues.
“I am wondering if you think there is any language within the lease agreement that would permit us to stop this event from happening,” wrote another. “Based on my review, I don’t think there is, but I would appreciate your opinion.”
Both “Rumble Live” and “Rebel News Live” were wildly successful and transpired without incident.
“The Defendants knew that there was no way for them to lawfully prevent the Event from proceeding,” the lawsuit alleges. “Nonetheless, they sought to, and did, interfere with the contractual relationship between Rebel News and the [venue], successfully pressuring the venue to impose the Unwarranted Costs on the Plaintiffs, contrary to the Agreement. These actions constitute unlawful inducement of breach of contract, for which the Plaintiffs have suffered damages as a result of paying for expenses well-above the contracted rate set out in the Agreement.”
Further, the rental agreement contained language that expressly protected the plaintiffs’ rights to free speech.
“The [venue] Agrees to: uphold free speech principles and contractual obligations, irrespective of the event’s content or the public’s reaction to such content,” the rental agreement read. “The [venue] shall not cancel or postpone the event due to external pressures, including but not limited to public dissent, social media campaigns, safety concerns (other than those unrelated to the event), or politically motivated requests.”
Indeed, a public statement from MP Saks revealed that she had political motivations for attempting to interfere, specifically identifying her adversary in an upcoming election and his relationship with Rebel News.
“My conservative opponent, Roman Baber, has been platformed by and interacted with Rebel News at every opportunity,” she wrote on X on May 10, 2024. “Rebel News is clearly supporting Roman Baber.”
This is not the first time that government officials have been accused of interfering with the plaintiffs’ constitutional rights. In 2023, Levant and Rebel News alleged that they had been blocked from viewing official government accounts on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), depriving them of access to government information and the ability to engage in public discourse or represent their views as journalists and citizens. In January 2024 a federal judge issued a consent order that required the plaintiffs to be unblocked.
Listed as defendants in this new lawsuit are MP Saks and several officials with Canada Lands Company Limited, which operates Downsview Park where the venue is located, and a representative of security services at CN Tower.
ABOUT RUMBLE
Rumble is a high-growth video platform and cloud services provider that is creating an independent infrastructure. Rumble’s mission is to restore the internet to its roots by making it free and open once again. For more information, visit: corp.rumble.com.
Contact: press@rumble.com
ABOUT REBEL NEWS NETWORK
Rebel News is a federal company carrying on business as an independent online news and media company operating across Canada and around the world. Rebel News has been granted media accreditation by governments in Canada and around the world, including the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Sweden, the Netherlands, and India. Rebel News is a member of the Independent Press Gallery of Canada and can be found online at rebelnews.com.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Committee advances discussions on trade-related climate measures and technology transfer
Source: WTO
Headline: Committee advances discussions on trade-related climate measures and technology transfer
Trade-related climate measures
Members discussed two new proposals, namely the Republic of Korea’s communication titled “Key Considerations for Trade-related Climate Measures (TrCMs): Suggested approaches toward a sustainable future” and the submission of Djibouti, presented by Burkina Faso, on behalf of least developed countries (LDCs) on “Perspectives on LDC environment-friendly trade and trade-related climate challenges”.
Members welcomed the two submissions, noting the need to collectively address regulatory fragmentation and trade disruptions arising from the increasing use of TrCMs. Many supported the Republic of Korea’s call to ensure that TrCMs are consistent, interoperable, flexible and transparent, while striking a balance between climate objectives and WTO trade rules.
Recognizing the challenges that LDCs face in adapting to trade-related climate policies, members emphasized the importance of addressing their specific needs and ensuring fair, equitable trade. They called for stronger support in technology transfer, capacity building and other measures to enhance LDCs’ economic situation, trade and climate resilience.
As a follow-up to thematic sessions on TrCMs and guiding questions from the Committee Chair (Ambassador Erwin Bollinger of Switzerland), members also engaged in a substantive discussion on the way forward in addressing TrCMs in the Committee.
Technology transfer
On 1 April, the Committee held its 5th thematic session on technology transfer. The co-coordinators, Ms. Chanikarn Dispadung of Thailand and Mr. Richard Tarasofsky of Canada, briefed members on the key takeaways from the session.
They said the session addressed a wide spectrum of challenges and opportunities in environmental technology transfer, fostering experience-sharing among international organizations, member governments and the private sector. Speakers identified key barriers to technology transfer, including high costs and technical requirements; supply, demand and knowledge/IP gaps; and the need for adequate funding and innovative financing mechanisms.
Other identified barriers included stakeholder engagement and trust; infrastructure; and market size for technology absorption. Best practices and successful approaches were also highlighted. These included needs-based and locally tailored solutions; public-private partnerships; South-South collaboration; innovative financing mechanisms; and possibilities for integrating climate technology and governance frameworks.
Delegates emphasized the importance of tailored solutions that adapt to local contexts, with enabling conditions like skilled labour, investment and regulatory frameworks. Concrete recommendations were made for WTO action, including coordination and knowledge-sharing with relevant international organizations, as well as more targeted technical assistance through existing frameworks such as Aid for Trade.
The thematic session series, launched in November 2023 at the request of members, serves as a platform to deepen understanding of specific issues of interest through concrete case studies and practical experience sharing. Previous sessions have addressed topics such as the clean energy transition and trade-related climate measures.
All presentations and the co-moderators’ report from the 5th thematic session are available here.
Transparency and information sharing
As part of WTO “reform by doing”, the Committee followed up on a proposal from Barbados, Colombia, India, Grenada, Paraguay, Singapore, St. Kitts and Nevis, the United Kingdom and Uruguay to further improve “Administrative processes to enhance clarity and accessibility of information”.
Moreover, at the request of a group of members — Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Japan, India, Paraguay and the United States — the WTO Secretariat provided a briefing on its current and planned workstreams related to trade and environment, covering activities across various WTO divisions and with outside organizations. Members appreciated the detailed briefing provided. They reaffirmed the value of regular updates and suggested exploring ways to enhance two-way communication. Additionally, members continued discussions on improving other processes to ensure greater clarity and accessibility of information within the Committee and across committees.
Additionally, the WTO Secretariat presented the 2023 update to the WTO Environmental Database.
The Secretariat of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) presented outcomes from the 2024 Climate Change Conference (COP29) and outlined preliminary plans for COP30, scheduled for November 2025 in Brazil. The WTO Secretariat also provided an update on its initial preparations for COP30, noting that planning is still in the early stages. The Secretariat will continue to keep members informed of any developments.
More information about the WTO Secretariat at COP29 is available here.
Other
Members were further briefed on developments regarding the Dialogue on Plastics Pollution and Environmentally Sustainable Plastics Trade (DPP) and the Trade and Environmental Sustainability Structured Discussions (TESSD).
The European Union provided an update on its Green Deal, highlighting recent regulatory changes aimed at simplifying processes and reducing compliance burdens for businesses. Members welcomed the update and reiterated concerns about the trade impact of key measures, particularly the EU Deforestation Regulation and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism.
Parties to the Agreement on Climate Change, Trade, and Sustainability (ACCTS) — Costa Rica, Iceland, New Zealand and Switzerland — briefed the Committee on the key features (JOB/TE/93) of ACCTS as an innovative agreement on trade, climate change and environmental sustainability. Trade liberalization in environmental goods and services under the Agreement will be extended to all WTO members on a non-discriminatory basis.
The UN Food and Agriculture Organization and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development presented their latest work related to trade and the environment.
Next meeting
The next Committee meeting will take place during “WTO Trade and Environment Week,” scheduled for 30 June to 4 July 2025.Share
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MIL-Evening Report: Donald Trump has gatecrashed the federal election. It’s creating huge challenges for Australia’s next government
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rebecca Strating, Director, La Trobe Asia, and Professor of International Relations, La Trobe University
Much of the world is finding out it’s a very difficult time to be a friend and ally of the United States.
That includes the major parties vying for power at the May 3 federal election. While voters may be preoccupied with the cost of living, it’s impossible to ignore the global tumult caused by the second Trump administration.
Who would have thought six months ago that the US would vote alongside Russia and North Korea on UN resolutions on Ukraine, while China abstained? Or that it would propose transforming Gaza into a Mediterranean resort?
Given the uncertainty reverberating across the globe, do we need to rethink our major foreign relations? Will the ANZUS alliance survive the second Trump presidency unscathed?
Whoever forms Australia’s next government must diversify its approach to foreign policy to include more engagement with partners in Asia and the Pacific. It does not mean abandoning the US alliance, but it does mean avoiding over-reliance.
Friends like these
US President Donald Trump’s widespread imposition of tariffs is unravelling the global economic order.
Australia was not specifically singled out for punishment. Nevertheless, the 10% slug on Australian imports prompted Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to condemn the tariffs as illogical:
they go against the basis of our two nations’ partnership. This is not the act of a friend.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton was equally frank when he complained about Australia’s poor treatment:
We have a special relationship with the United States and it hasn’t been treated with respect by the administration or the president.
We have been let off relatively lightly compared with many other economies. But there may be an unforeseen strategic impact on Australia. For example, will other countries in our region decide that China is a more trustworthy partner than the US? What would that do for regional stability?
Dutton has questioned whether Albanese has the right character as leader to deal effectively with Trump.
It is unlikely any Australian prime minister could have done much to avoid the tariffs. We should consider the possibility that Trump doesn’t think much about Australia, which will shape the bilateral relationship for the foreseeable future.
US vs China
Trump himself remains the wild card. His administration has prioritised ending the war in Ukraine, alienating European allies along the way.
The question for partners in Asia, including Australia, is whether the US is clearing the decks in Europe so it can focus on its main competitor: China. There are plenty of Beijing hawks in the administration, and China has been slapped with the steepest tariffs, which total 54%.
In Australia, we often worry about being dragged into a great power conflict in the region. And we do appear to be entering a world of even more rapid militarisation, with all the security risks that would entail.
The signing of the AUKUS submarine agreement in 2021 was one of the clearest signals to date that Australia was siding unequivocally with Washington. In the same year, Dutton declared it “inconceivable” Australia would not join the US in defending Taiwan if it was attacked by China.
But now, there is an entirely different issue Australia needs to consider. The US rapprochement with Russia might be interpreted as a portent of future deal-making with other authoritarian leaders, including Xi Jinping.
We can’t rule out Trump and Xi cutting a highly transactional deal on Chinese annexation of Taiwan. While this is unlikely, the security calculus now needs to incorporate a diverse range of plausible futures that previously seemed off the table.
A Taiwan bargain would make regional partners, including Australia, extremely nervous. If the US is willing to abandon Taiwan, it might be willing to abandon other allies as well.
Higher defence spending
The recent transit through Australian waters by Chinese naval vessels focused attention on whether Australian defence capabilities are sufficient to protect our coastline – and whether the Albanese government’s response was too tepid.
Yet, it is the opposition that has tempered its rhetoric on China, notwithstanding its policy commitment to end the 99-year lease of the Port of Darwin to Chinese firm Landbridge.
Peter Dutton has declared himself to be “pro-China”:
the relationship with China will be much stronger than it is under the Albanese government
This reflects lessons learned from the last election when a stronger tone on China hurt the Coalition among Mandarin-speaking voters.
Rather than talking up the China threat, the narrative is instead around the need to increase defence spending.
The Trump administration wants Australia to share more of the burden by lifting defence spending above 3% of GDP. Such a ramp-up may not be feasible in financial terms.
While Australia does need to boost military capabilities, increased spending should be determined by independent, evidence-based assessments of Australia’s defence needs.
Alliance will endure
Neither major party is questioning the alliance, which will survive the second coming of Trump. Nor will there be any debate over the AUKUS submarines, for which there is bipartisan support.
Any difference between Labor and the Coalition is likely to be on the periphery. However, one important difference will be how the respective parties think about our region. As Dutton recently demonstrated, the Coalition is less focused than Labor on relations with Asia.
While Trump is sucking up much of the oxygen in Australia’s foreign relations, we simply cannot afford to forget about our partners throughout the Asia-Pacific.
This is the second article in our special series, Australia’s Policy Challenges. You can read the first piece in the series here.
Rebecca Strating receives funding from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
– ref. Donald Trump has gatecrashed the federal election. It’s creating huge challenges for Australia’s next government – https://theconversation.com/donald-trump-has-gatecrashed-the-federal-election-its-creating-huge-challenges-for-australias-next-government-251912
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MIL-OSI Australia: 60 new places to eat
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
In brief:
- This story includes more than 60 new places to eat across Canberra.
- Since this story was published, more eateries have opened. Find 35 (more) new places to eat.
Canberra’s food scene gets better each year. 2024 is no exception, with a huge array of eateries opening in the last 12 months.
Whether you’re on the lookout for a fresh new favourite in your neighbourhood, or prepared to venture across town, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Central Canberra
Mínima, Yarralumla
The latest venture from the team behind Morks showcases Southeast Asian and Chinese cuisine. Grab takeaway noodles for lunch or dine-in from lunch. There’s a tasting menu or a la carte menu to choose from.
Cafe Sosta, Yarralumla
This Italian cafe is about as close to the water as you can get. Enjoy views of Lake Burley Griffin while you indulge in dishes like breakfast risotto, pistachio cream filled croissants or fresh paninis.
Lil Mama’s, Kingston
Lil Mama’s is more than just a cafe, it’s a gathering spot for local creatives. That being said, you will find delicious sandwiches, bagels, coffee, matacha lattes, sweet treats and more to enjoy at this waterside spot.
Petite Saigon, Canberra City
Verity Lane Market has a new vendor offering fresh, authentic Vietnamese cuisine. You’ll find classics like Vietname bread rolls, rice noodle soup, rice/vermicelli diesh and rice paper rolls.
Taco Boi, Braddon
The latest addition to Canberra’s thriving Mexican food scene is serving up tacos, burgers and wings. Vegans will love their plant-based chicken burger or cauliflower tacos. There are also options for pescetarians and carnivores, plus sides like waffle or shoestring fries, jalapeno poppers and mozarella fingers.
Recess Coffee, Griffith
From the great minds behind Ter and Barrio comes this suburban all-day dining destination. Recess roast their own beans, so you know the coffee is excellent. With sandwiches, pancakes, pasta dishes and sweet treats on the menu, there’s almost certainly something to cure your cravings.
The Peacemaker Saloon, Braddon
Mort Street’s latest addition is a western saloon-style bar. Visit for American Southwestern food, craft cocktails, whiskey and more.
Good neighbours are invaluable. But a Good Neighbour serving up coffee, breakfast and lunch seven days a week? Worth its weight in gold. Try the strawberry matcha, shakshouka or chilli crab folded eggs.
After a hiatus that lasted a few years, Crack Bakery is making a comeback. The team behind Pâtissez and Cartel are serving up their beloved pies as well as cookies. Orders can be made exclusively online with pickup at their kitchen at Canberra Airport.
This freshly opened boutique wine bar on Lonsdale Street also serves food and cocktails. Think cheese platters, charcuterie boards, hearty mains and desserts. The menu also includes non-alcoholic options.
Catbird’s menu is inspired by the fresh cuisine of sunny Southern California. There are breakfast burritos, sandwiches, salads, sweet things and coffee. There’s also a kid’s menu.
Sweet tooths will love the range of flavours at this New York-inspired donut shop. There are filled options like Biscoff or lemon meringue, or traditional glazed donuts.
Rakkas is a modern Turkish restaurant on the edge of Lake Burley Griffin. The menu includes flavourful authentic Turkish dishes like dips and Turkish bread, fried halloumi with honeycomb, chargrilled spatchcock and more.
This Lebanese restaurant is perfect for casual family dining or group celebrations. The mains are perfect for sharing: choose from a grill platter, shawarma meta, a vegetarian mixed plate and more.
If you’re a meat eater with a big appetite, you’ll love this Korean barbeque spot. Choose your proteins and sides and then barbeque right at the table. There are also rice and noodle dishes, soups and stews.
Italian and Sons is a longstanding Canberra favourite. Their new focaccia bar is open from 11:30am to 2:30pm Wednesday to Friday and includes pillowy, fresh focaccia (with a gluten-free option, too!).
Compa is Matt Moran’s foray into the Canberra dining scene. Steaks are the focus of the menu, accompanied by a fine selection of entrees, sides and desserts.
&Sando is also a Matt Moran creation. It’s a sandwich bar that uses bread (and stocks pastry) from local bakery Under. Their sandwiches range includes elevated classics filled with fresh ingredients.
This new café is run by Illy Coffee and the team behind Pizza Artigiana. Their pastry case is filled with sfogliatelle (an Italian pastry with a ricotta citrus filling), cannoli and croissants.
Alia is the spot for family-style Greek dining. Bring a big appetite and choose from slow-cooked lamb gyros, lobster linguine, chicken souvlaki, and baklava cheesecake.
Donuts, cookies and pastries abound at this Dickson dessert spot. Flavours range from the traditional (hot cinnamon and jam) to the unique (bubblegum, iced vovo and earl grey rose).
No need to journey to Wamboin to visit Contentious Character Winery. Their new location in Fyshwick’s Dairy Road precinct offers wine tastings, coffee and dining options for breakfast, lunch and dinner (including tapas).
Gourmet sandwiches are the main offering of this New York-style deli. There are also breakfast options including pancakes and a sausage or bacon and egg roll. Sandwiches come fresh or hot, with options like a schnitty roll, beef and pickle and tuna melt.
Bada Bing has a retro charm that’s perfect for date nights or private dining. Dishes are designed to share and include antipasti, pizza, pasta and more.
Kingston Foreshore’s newest spot is open for breakfast, lunch and takeaway. The menu includes a mushroom croissant, Turkish eggs, chicken porridge and a crab omelette.
Pick up a coffee from Howie Espresso and don’t leave without one of their delicious grab-and-go options. Breakfast options include muesli and yoghurt, bircher muesli, chia breakfast bowls and muffins. Sandwiches, bagels, and wraps are on offer for lunch.
The beloved Mexican food truck now has a permanent shop on Lonsdale Street. The menu boasts authentic Mexican flavours with items like tacos, empanadas and gorditas.
Tangy, refreshing frozen yoghurt has arrived on Lonsdale Street. Moo Moo has a big range of frozen yoghurt flavours that can be customised with toppings and sauces.
A third generation Thai eatery serving lunch on weekdays. Dishes are simple but flavourful and include chicken green curry, spicy pumpkin curry and pad thai.
The Farrer location is a long-time favourite, and Fox and Bow has now arrived in the Inner South. Breakfast, brunch, lunch or just a coffee, everything on the menu is a winner.
A post shared by Rosa’s at The Lawns (@rosascbr)
Whether you’re after a pastry and a coffee or a pizza and a wine, this outdoor garden bar is sure to please. The food is delicious and the scenery is delightful.
Not strictly new, but recently reopened. Milky Lane is back with its loaded burgers, crispy fried chicken and decadent desserts.
Mediterranean food seems to be having a moment in Canberra, and Kivoto’s is another must-eat destination to add to your list. Pair flavourful Greek cuisine with a drop from their impressive wine list.
Sample the flavours of Europe without leaving Canberra. This bistro in the Realm hotel precinct has a stunning interior with an outdoor terrace to match. Visit for lunch or dinner or try their high tea offering.
Another new addition to the Realm precinct is Med, where Lebanese, Turkish and Greek cuisine collide. It’s a hit with carnivores and also offers vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Wonderburger brings the vintage American diner experience to Canberra. There are 10 different burgers to choose from, plus hot dogs, fried chicken, chips, sides and soft serve.
Fine dining aficionados will love this industrial-style restaurant. It has an ever-changing menu that showcases seasonal local produce.
Visit Pialligo’s newest dining destination for farmhouse-style share plates. Enjoy produce from the farm as well as regional growers.
Woden, Weston Creek and Molonglo
Three Mills has locations spread across Canberra, and now Woden Valley residents and workers can get their fix. Enjoy coffee, pastries, freshly baked bread and more.
Torrens shops is quickly becoming a foodie haven. Saint Elmo is a deli and coffee shop that sells freshly baked goods, a curated selection of meats and cheeses, fresh pasta and sauces.
Two Before Ten is another Canberra favourite, and it has now landed in the Molonglo Valley. Visit for coffee, breakfast, brunch or lunch.
Stop by the Spit Shack food truck at Weston Classic Car Wash for smokey barbeque fare. The menu includes rolls, buns, fries, hot dogs and more.
Gungahlin
Goodberry’s, Franklin
Gungahlin residents can now get their fix of frozen custard concretes. Choose from one of the delicious flavours or mix it up with different sauces, fudges, nuts, fruits, and toppings.
The Bakehouse, Mitchell
The Bakehouse has reopened under new management and their fresh menu is bursting with delicious options. Pick up a coffee or raspberry matcha latte and treat yourself to some comfort food.
GoTato, Gungahlin
Love potato? Whether you’re after a quick snack or a filling meal, GoTato offers crinkle cut chips, sweet potato fries, potato scallops, waffle fries, potato tots and hot dogs.
The newest CocoNine restaurant is open for lunch and dinner every day except Tuesday. Get all your Thai favourites including salads, curries, noodles, stir fries and more. There is also a vegan section of the menu.
If you can barely summon the energy to venture out for coffee in the morning, you’re in luck. Kickstart Espresso has opened a drive-thru coffee shop in Belconnen. In addition to your caffeine fix, you can also pick up smoothies, toasties, muffins and more.
This suburban gem offers pick-up and delivery. Choose from traditional options and modern Aussie favourites (chooks and bacon pizza, anyone?).
A new family-friendly pub from the team behind The Knox Made in Watson. They showcase local produce through their menu which includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks.
A modern takeaway shop with a menu that’s regularly updated. Past items have included crispy pork ribs, laksa, authentic mapo tofu, and Chinese sausage fried rice.
This ramen bar has a plant-based menu that features tofu, Japanese sweet potato and seasonal vegetables. They also have an extensive menu of non-alcoholic drinks.
This all-you-can-eat Korean buffet includes self-service bars for hotpot, cupbap, and fried rice, as well as other choices like ramen and noodles, and unlimited drinks.
Open seven days a week, Aby Coffee Couse have coffee, muffins, pastries and sandwiches.
Tuggeranong
L’épi opened its Kambah store towards the end of last year, and it’s become a firm favourite of residents. They make fresh bread, pretzels, pastries, cakes and more.
Brodburger is iconically Canberran, and it’s now easily available to southside residents. From traditional burgers to salmon, lamb, and veg, there’s something for everyone.
Dine in or takeaway from Fricken Chicken in Tuggeranong. In addition to their famous fried chicken, they also have a children’s playground and coeliac safe fried chicken.
Ureshii opened last year and has been satisfying Tuggeranong’s Japanese cravings. Tasty lunch bowls, sushi, udon noodle soup, gyoza and katsu chicken all feature on the menu.
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MIL-OSI NGOs: Thailand: Authorities must end malicious smear campaigns and cyberattacks on civil society
Source: Amnesty International –
Amnesty International has called on the Thai authorities to investigate and take any necessary measures to end cyberattacks against human rights activists after leaked internal government documents showed that Amnesty International was among several civil society groups targeted in a coordinated, state-sponsored campaign.
The documents, which were brought to light in a recent parliamentary debate, revealed Thai police and military units are jointly running a “Cyber Team” which deliberately sought to tarnish the reputations and undermine the legitimate work of civil society organizations and political opposition members.
It also engaged in phishing attacks and brute-force attempts to access social media accounts. The former Executive Director of Amnesty International’s Thailand office was among those targeted.
“These cyberattacks are an outrageous assault on Thailand’s civic space. Thai authorities must immediately end these malicious smear campaigns against human rights defenders and activists,” Amnesty International’s Thailand Researcher Chanatip Tatiyakaroonwong said.
“The Thai government must take any necessary measures to disclose full details regarding state actors’ involvement and hold accountable all those responsible—whether they are state officials, members of the security forces or private individuals.”
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MIL-OSI Video: #wintersportsclinic | Daehler’s Remarkable Return to Skiing
Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)
Vietnam era Army Veteran Robert Daehler returns to the slopes after an injury that left him paralyzed. This year, he’s not skiing alone—Daehler’s entire family is by his side, cheering him on as he embraces his passion for skiing. Below are the family members who have gathered in Snowmass to join beloved father and grandfather on this memorable journey.
Family Members:
Grandchildren: Juna, Orion and Jacob
Children: Maria, Kirsten, Denise and Erik
In-Laws: Jess and Richard#sports4vets #DAV
To learn how you can volunteer, or to learn more, visit www.wintersportsclinic.org
This video was created by the NDVWSC Media Team.