NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese coast guard expels Japanese vessels for unlawfully entering waters of Diaoyu Dao

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Photo taken on Sept. 14, 2012 shows the Diaoyu Islands. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Between Friday and Monday, the China Coast Guard (CCG) expelled several Japanese fishing vessels that had unlawfully entered China’s territorial waters around Diaoyu Dao, according to a spokesperson for the CCG on Monday.
    In the process, the CCG vessels enforced necessary, lawful management and control measures against the Japanese vessels, and issued warnings to drive them out of the area, CCG spokesperson Liu Dejun said.
    Noting that Diaoyu Dao and its affiliated islands are China’s inherent territory, Liu urged the Japanese side to immediately cease all illegal activities in these waters.
    The CCG will continue to conduct regular law enforcement activities in the territorial waters of Diaoyu Dao, with the aim of safeguarding China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, Liu said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Trump says he may ‘give a lot of countries breaks’ on tariffs

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    U.S. President Donald Trump attends an event celebrating the Greek Independence Day at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on March 24, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday said that he may “give a lot of countries breaks” on tariffs, as his April 2 deadline to impose “reciprocal tariffs” on U.S. trading partners draws closer.

    “I may give a lot of countries breaks, but it’s reciprocal,” Trump told reporters at the White House Monday afternoon.

    He noted that the European Union (EU) has agreed to lower car tariffs to 2.5 percent as part of a deal with the Trump administration.

    “We’ll be announcing some additional tariffs over the next few days, having to do with automobiles, cars, and having also to do a little bit with lumber down the road, lumber and chips,” Trump continued.

    “But for the most part, April 2 will be a big day, that will be reciprocal day, and we’ll be bringing some of the money back that’s been taken from us,” Trump said.

    Earlier in the day, Trump announced on social media that he’ll impose 25-percent tariff on any nation that purchases oil and/or gas from Venezuela, accusing the Latin American country of sending “tens of thousands of” criminals to the United States.

    When asked by a reporter whether the 25-percent tariff is “on top of existing tariffs,” Trump said “yes.”

    With key U.S. economic indicators showing concerning trends, economists and investors warn that the risk of a “Trumpcession” has grown due to unpredictable trade and economic policies.

    Earlier this month, Bruce Kasman, JPMorgan’s chief global economist, expressed heightened concerns about the U.S. economy. He told reporters in Singapore that the investment bank now estimates a 40 percent chance of a U.S. recession this year. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Foreign brands benefit from China’s consumption stimulus

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

    SHANGHAI, March 25 — As millions of Chinese consumers trade in their devices for the latest models ranging from electric vehicles to home appliances, the rising consumer spending has benefited both Chinese and foreign brands.

    China kicked off large-scale equipment upgrade and consumer goods trade-in programs in March 2024, and revamped these programs earlier this year, amid efforts to boost domestic demand and spur economic growth.

    Prominent foreign brand, Tesla, has benefited from such programs in the sale of its revised Model Y.

    Earlier this month, on the first day of deliveries of the revised Model Y in east China’s Shanghai, more than 500 new vehicles were handed over to buyers, many of whom took advantage of China’s trade-in scheme.

    A resident in Shanghai surnamed Zhang, mentioned that by trading in his old gasoline car and taking advantage of consumption subsidies, he was able to purchase a revised Model Y for about 200,000 yuan (approximately 27,863 U.S. dollars). “The incentives from these subsidy programs are quite significant, which motivated me to place the order,” he said.

    Subsidies vary from place to place. In Guangdong Province in south China, for instance, consumers who buy new energy vehicles can receive subsidies of up to 20,000 yuan.

    Notably, apart from the government’s stimulus policy, Tesla has also taken steps to provide various car purchase incentives, including interest-free financing and insurance subsidy programs, to further lower costs for its customers.

    Foreign firms in the home appliance sector have also benefited from the government program. “The Chinese government’s consumption stimulus policies, including the trade-in program, have increased consumer spending. As a result, sales in Panasonic’s home appliance segment have grown,” Lin Yibin, managing officer of China & Northeast Asia Company of Panasonic Appliances (China) Co., Ltd, told Xinhua in an interview.

    Following the introduction of these policies, sales of Panasonic’s large home appliances from September to December last year, such as washing machines and refrigerators, especially in the offline market, have surpassed figures from the same period of 2023, Lin added.

    In early January this year, China announced a raft of measures to expand the scope of its consumer goods trade-in program. Under the expanded program, categories of home appliances eligible for government subsidies have been increased from eight in 2024 to 12 in 2025.

    “The revamped policy has sparked a surge in consumer spending on home appliances across the country. We are actively working with all parties to benefit from the new policy,” Lin noted.

    These subsidies have helped bring more coffee machines into Chinese homes. In places like Shanghai, Shenzhen and Hubei Province, coffee machines have been added to the list of items eligible for subsidies. De’Longhi, an Italian coffee machine supplier, has benefited from this initiative.

    “Last year, we saw double-digit growth, and since January of this year, we’ve maintained an even higher double-digit growth rate — largely thanks to the consumption stimulus policies,” said Zong Yanping, managing director of De’Longhi Greater China, in an interview with Xinhua.

    “Unlike large home appliances, which have long been essential in Chinese households, coffee machines are still relatively new to many families. Therefore, the purchasing subsidies have been very helpful for us in terms of marketing,” Zong explained.

    Zong is optimistic about China’s market potential, as the consumption stimulus coincided with a shift in coffee-drinking habits in the country, noting that “what began as an occasional social activity has become a morning routine for many young people today.”

    China’s large-scale equipment upgrade and consumer goods trade-in programs have so far yielded fruitful results. In 2024, it drove equipment purchases and investment up by 15.7 percent — contributing 67.6 percent to overall investment growth while boosting sales of bulk durable consumer goods by over 1.3 trillion yuan last year, according to data released by the National Development and Reform Commission in February.

    Vowing to make domestic demand “the main engine and anchor of economic growth,” China’s policymakers during this year’s “two sessions” sent fresh and firm signals regarding empowering the country’s vast number of consumers to spend more confidently.

    Following the 2025 “two sessions,” China vowed to implement solid support measures to connect consumer spending to people’s well-being in the latest consumption-promotion plan. The plan outlines the issuance of ultra-long special treasury bonds totaling 300 billion yuan to bolster consumer goods trade-in programs in 2025 — doubling the 2024 figure.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: BFA Annual Conference 2025 to open in Hainan

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

    BFA Annual Conference 2025 to open in Hainan

    Updated: March 25, 2025 09:13 Xinhua
    This photo taken on March 24, 2025 shows a view of the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) International Conference Center in Boao, south China’s Hainan Province. With the theme “Asia in the Changing World: Towards a Shared Future,” the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference 2025 will be held from March 25 to 28 in Hainan. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A staff member works at the main venue for the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference 2025 in Boao, south China’s Hainan Province, March 24, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Journalists work at the press center of the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference 2025 in Boao, south China’s Hainan Province, March 24, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 25 March 2025 Joint News Release Decades of progress in reducing child deaths and stillbirths under threat, warns the United Nations

    Source: World Health Organisation

    The number of children dying globally before their fifth birthday declined to 4.8 million in 2023, while stillbirths declined modestly, still remaining around 1.9 million, according to two new reports released today by the United Nations Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (UN IGME).

    Since 2000, child deaths have dropped by more than half and stillbirths by over a third, fuelled by sustained investments in child survival worldwide. In 2022, the world reached a historic milestone when child deaths dropped slightly below 5 million for the first time. However, progress has slowed and too many children are still being lost to preventable causes.

    “Millions of children are alive today because of the global commitment to proven interventions, such as vaccines, nutrition, and access to safe water and basic sanitation,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell. “Bringing preventable child deaths to a record low is a remarkable achievement. But without the right policy choices and adequate investment, we risk reversing these hard-earned gains, with millions more children dying from preventable causes. We cannot allow that to happen.”

    Decades of progress in child survival are now at risk as major donors have announced or indicated significant funding cuts to aid ahead. Reduced global funding for life-saving child survival programmes is causing health-care worker shortages, clinic closures, vaccination programme disruptions, and a lack of essential supplies, such as malaria treatments. These cuts are severely impacting regions in humanitarian crises, debt-stricken countries, and areas with already high child mortality rates. Global funding cuts could also undermine monitoring and tracking efforts, making it harder to reach the most vulnerable children, the Inter-agency Group warned.

    “From tackling malaria to preventing stillbirths and ensuring evidence-based care for the tiniest babies, we can make a difference for millions of families,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization. “In the face of global funding cuts, there is a need more than ever to step up collaboration to protect and improve children’s health.”

    Even before the current funding crisis, the pace of progress on child survival had already slowed. Since 2015, the annual rate of reduction of under-five mortality has slowed by 42%, and stillbirth reduction has slowed by 53%, compared to 2000–2015.

    Almost half of under-five deaths happen within the first month of life, mostly due to premature birth and complications during labour. Beyond the newborn period, infectious diseases, including acute respiratory infections such as pneumonia, malaria, and diarrhoea, are the leading causes of preventable child death. Meanwhile, 45% of late stillbirths occur during labour, often due to maternal infections, prolonged or obstructed labour, and lack of timely medical intervention.

    Better access to quality maternal, newborn, and child health care at all levels of the health system will save many more lives, according to the reports. This includes promotive and preventive care in communities, timely visits to health facilities and health professionals at birth, high-quality antenatal and postnatal care, well-child preventive care such as routine vaccinations and comprehensive nutrition programmes, diagnosis and treatment for common childhood illnesses, and specialized care for small and sick newborns.

    “Most preventable child deaths occur in low-income countries, where essential services, vaccines, and treatments are often inaccessible”, said Juan Pablo Uribe, World Bank Global Director for Health and Director of the Global Financing Facility. “Investing in children’s health ensures their survival, education, and future contributions to the workforce. With strategic investments and strong political will, we can continue to reduce child mortality, unlocking economic growth and employment opportunities that benefit the entire world.”

    The reports also show that where a child is born greatly influences their chances of survival. The risk of death before age five is 80 times higher in the highest-mortality country than the lowest-mortality country, for example, while a child born in sub-Saharan Africa is on average 18 times more likely to die before turning five than one born in Australia and New Zealand. Within countries, the poorest children, those living in rural areas, and those with less-educated mothers face the higher risks.

    Stillbirth disparities are just as severe, with nearly 80% occurring in sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Asia, where women are six to eight times more likely to experience a stillbirth than women in Europe or North America. Meanwhile, women in low-income countries are eight times more likely to experience a stillbirth than those in high-income countries.

    “Disparities in child mortality across and within nations remain one of the greatest challenges of our time,” said the UN DESA Under-Secretary-General, Li Junhua. “Reducing such differences is not just a moral imperative but also a fundamental step towards sustainable development and global equity. Every child deserves a fair chance at life, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that no child is left behind.”

    UN IGME members call on governments, donors, and partners across the private and public sectors to protect the hard-won gains in saving children’s lives and accelerate efforts. Increased investments, service integration, and innovations are urgently needed to scale up access to proven life-saving health, nutrition, and social protection services for children and pregnant mothers.    

    Notes to editors

    Download multimedia content here.

    The UN IGME child mortality report The UN IGME stillbirth report

    The two reports – Levels & Trends in Child Mortality and Counting Every Stillbirth – are the first of a series of important global data sets released in 2025. UN maternal mortality figures will be published in the coming weeks.

    About UN IGME

    The United Nations Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation or UN IGME was formed in 2004 to share data on child mortality, improve methods for child mortality estimation, report on progress towards child survival goals and enhance the capacity of countries to produce timely and properly evaluated estimates of child mortality. UN IGME is led by UNICEF and includes the World Health Organization, the World Bank Group and the Population Division of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs.

     For more information: 

    http://www.childmortality.org/

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Multinational CEOs flock to China for business opportunities

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

    This photo taken on March 23, 2025 shows the Symposium on Macro Policies and Economic Growth of the China Development Forum 2025 in Beijing, capital of China. The China Development Forum 2025 is scheduled from March 23 to 24. The theme of this year’s forum is “Unleashing Development Momentum for Stable Growth of Global Economy.” [Photo/Xinhua]

    BEIJING, March 24 — Heads of some 80 multinationals including Siemens, Apple, Samsung and Pfizer have flocked to China to seek new cooperation opportunities with the world’s second-largest economy.

    The transnational corporate chiefs were present at the China Development Forum 2025 in Beijing, scheduled from March 23 to 24. The annual event, hosted by the Development Research Center of China’s State Council, has become an important platform of dialogue for the Chinese government, global businesses, academia, and international organizations.

    China will continue to welcome enterprises from around the world with open arms, further expand market access, actively address the concerns of businesses, and facilitate the deeper integration of foreign-funded enterprises into the Chinese market, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said in a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the forum.

    Prior to the forum, British pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca signed a landmark 2.5-billion-U.S. dollar agreement on Friday to invest in Beijing over the next five years, the largest single investment in Beijing’s biopharmaceutical sector in recent years.

    Under the agreement, AstraZeneca will establish a global strategic R&D center in Beijing, its sixth worldwide and second in China after one in Shanghai. The new center, equipped with an advanced artificial intelligence and data science laboratory, will accelerate early-stage drug research and clinical development.

    “The investment highlights our confidence in Beijing’s world-class life sciences innovation ecosystem, extensive collaborative opportunities, and exceptional talent pool,” AstraZeneca CEO Pascal Soriot said in an interview with Xinhua.

    In 2024, BMW delivered over 100,000 battery electric vehicles to customers in China for the first time, making China its strongest single market for electric vehicles.

    The company is committed to expanding its investment in China and accelerating the localization of production as well as research and development, said Oliver Zipse, chairman of the board of management of BMW AG, in a meeting with Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao.

    Zipse also noted that there are only losers and no winners in a tariff war. The company firmly opposes the EU imposing additional tariffs on Chinese EVs and hopes that both the EU and China can properly resolve their differences, he said.

    At a symposium of the forum, Zipse said he was impressed by the AI Plus initiative in China’s government work report this year, and that BMW is working with Chinese sci-tech leaders to apply generative AI and large language model technologies into its vehicles.

    Miguel Lopez, CEO of Thyssenkrupp AG, an industrial conglomerate, said China is not only one of the largest markets, but also the country with the most comprehensive industrial chain and supply chain in the world, as well as a good logistics system.

    Thyssenkrupp will continue to strengthen supply chain management in China and establish good relationships with local suppliers, which will not only reduce its costs and improves its resilience, but also improves its performance on global markets, Lopez said.

    Lim Boon Heng, chairman of Singapore’s Temasek Holdings, said he truly feels during his visit the growing innovation and vitality of the Chinese market and the improved business environment.

    Noting China has become one of Temasek’s most important investment destinations, he said Temasek is full of confidence in the long-term prospects of the Chinese economy and will continue to deepen its presence in the Chinese market.

    For Otis, the elevator industry leader has benefited from China’s rapid urbanization over the past few decades.

    Judy Marks, CEO of Otis Worldwide Corporation, said the country still offers great opportunities in the future, and compared with decades ago, China is no longer just a production base and sales market, but also a research and development base for elevators.

    “I think most of the world will not only want to partner with China but also strengthen economic relations with China,” said Jeffrey Sachs, an economics professor at Columbia University.

    Official data has shown that China remains a top destination for transnational investment. Some 60,000 foreign-invested companies were established in China in 2024 alone, a 9.9 percent year-on-year increase. The return rate of FDI in China has remained at approximately 9 percent over the past five years, ranking among the highest around the world.

    This year’s government work report notes that China will encourage foreign investors to increase their reinvestment in the country, and it will ensure equal treatment for foreign-funded enterprises in fields such as production factor access, license applications, standards setting and government procurement.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Seeks Court Order to Block Mass Firings, Transfer of Core Functions from Department of Education

    Source: US State of California

    Cites immediate and potentially devastating harms to California schools and students 

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today led a multistate coalition in filing a motion for a preliminary injunction to prevent the Trump Administration’s mass firing of U.S. Department of Education employees and the transfer of core statutory functions to other departments. These actions will devastate the Department of Education’s ability to meet its statutory obligations across numerous programs — direct funding for K-12 education, student aid, services for students with disabilities, civil rights enforcement, vocational training, and more. California schools alone receive $7.9 billion annually from the Department of Education, and these schools have already reported impacts and disruptions to their ability to provide public education to California’s children as a result of these actions. As such, Attorney General Bonta and the coalition argue that the actions violate the Administrative Procedures Act, are unconstitutional, and should be enjoined while litigation continues.

    “California receives billions of dollars each year from the U.S. Department of Education. The programs and initiatives these funds support help ensure all our children have access to a high-quality public education and are able to learn in a safe, healthy environment,” said Attorney General Bonta. “All of this is at risk with the Trump Administration’s mass firing of Department employees and outsourcing of core statutory functions like the administration of federal student loans. President Trump has made no secret of his desire to shut down the Department of Education for good – and we know that these actions are just a step toward that end goal. But as his own administration has acknowledged, he lacks the authority to unilaterally do so. I respectfully ask the court to block the Trump Administration’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education from within while our litigation continues.”

    On March 11, the Department of Education initiated a mass termination impacting nearly 50% of the Department’s employees, as part of the Trump Administration’s “final mission” to dismantle the Department. The mass firings were not accompanied by any reasoning to explain why these employees — and indeed, some whole teams — were targeted. The rationale is nevertheless clear — the Trump Administration believes the Department should not exist and is using these firings as a tool in furtherance of that goal. President Trump’s directive last week for Education Secretary Linda McMahon to take all necessary steps to dismantle the Department is further evidence that the firings are part of a broader effort to undermine the Department’s ability to carry out its most vital, congressionally-mandated functions. These steps including transferring the administration of federal student loans to the Small Business Administration, which recently fired 40% of its workers, and of special needs and nutritional programs to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

    The U.S. Department of Education provides $7.9 billion annually in federal funding to more than 9,000 public schools across California – serving 5.8 million students. This includes funding for Title I to support low-income families, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) funds and support for students with disabilities, school lunch programs, services to families living on military bases and Indian reservations, and post-secondary financial aid. Already, the mass firings have led to the closure of seven regional offices of the Office for Civil Rights, including the one in San Francisco, leaving 1,500 pending cases, including open investigations, cases in mediation, resolved cases under monitoring, and complaints under research by staff, in limbo. 

    It is clear that the mass firing of nearly 50% of all Department of Education employees will make it impossible for the Department to meet its current obligations under federal law, violating the separation of powers and the Executive Branch’s obligation to take care that the law is faithfully executed, and exceeding the Department’s authority under the law in violation of the Administrative Procedures Act. Given the immediate and potentially devastating harm that these firings and subsequent transfer of core programs could cause to California’s schools and children, Attorney General Bonta, along with the coalition, respectfully asks the court to grant a preliminary injunction while the states’ litigation continues.  

    Attorney General Bonta is leading this lawsuit with Hawaii Attorney General Anne Lopez, Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell, and New York Attorney General Letitia James. They are joined by the attorneys general of Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, Oregon, Rhode Island, Washington, Wisconsin, Vermont, and the District of Columbia.

    A copy of the motion is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China willing to expand all-round cooperation with ADB: Chinese premier

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

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Masato Kanda at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 24, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    BEIJING, March 24 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Masato Kanda on Monday in Beijing, expressing willingness to further expand all-round cooperation between China and the ADB.

    Li said in recent years, affected by geopolitical turbulence and rising protectionism, the world economy has recovered slowly with increased instability and uncertainty.

    Li called on Asian countries to strengthen solidarity and coordination, adhere to multilateralism, advance regional economic integration, break down barriers to the flow of trade, investment and technology, and maintain the stability and smooth flow of industrial and supply chains.

    At the same time, all sides should strengthen macro policy coordination, deepen exchanges and cooperation in science and technology innovation, enhance the efficiency and resilience of the Asian economy, better withstand various risks, and join hands to achieve common development, Li added.

    Noting that the ADB is an important multilateral development institution in the Asia-Pacific region, Li said China is ready to further expand all-round cooperation with the ADB, push the partnership to a new level, better achieve mutual benefit and win-win results, and provide more public goods for the region.

    The premier said both sides should strengthen financial cooperation in such fields as environmental protection, green and low-carbon development, elderly care and medical care, and deepen knowledge cooperation in such fields as the development of emerging industries, fiscal and tax system reform, and aging response.

    China is ready to share its useful experience in poverty reduction and digital economy with other developing members in the Asia-Pacific to support them in better meeting challenges and achieving sustainable development, said Li.

    Kanda said at a time when international trade is increasingly fragmented, China is committed to further deepening reform and high-level opening-up, which not only achieves steady growth of its own economy, but also makes important contributions to economic growth in Asia and the world at large.

    ADB attaches great importance to cooperation with China, and is willing to take the 40th anniversary of cooperative ties as an opportunity to strengthen cooperation with China in knowledge innovation, green development and other fields, promote the development of the Asia-Pacific region, and push the cooperative partnership between both sides to a higher level.

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Masato Kanda at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 24, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: IMPOSING TARIFFS ON COUNTRIES IMPORTING VENEZUELAN OIL

    Source: The White House

    class=”has-text-align-left”>By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) (IEEPA), the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.), and section 301 of title 3, United States Code, and in view of the national emergency declared with respect to Venezuela in Executive Order 13692 of March 8, 2015 (Blocking Property and Suspending Entry of Certain Persons Contributing to the Situation in Venezuela), as continued most recently in the notice of February 27, 2025 (Continuation of the National Emergency with Respect to Venezuela), I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, find that the actions and policies of the regime of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela continue to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States.  The activities of the Tren de Aragua gang, a transnational criminal organization originating in Venezuela and designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist organization, have intensified this threat, as highlighted in Proclamation 10903 of March 14, 2025 (Invocation of the Alien Enemies Act Regarding the Invasion of the United States by Tren De Aragua).  Furthermore, Venezuela’s ongoing destabilizing actions, including its support for illicit activities, necessitate further economic measures to protect United States interests.

    In light of these circumstances, and to address the continued national emergency with respect to Venezuela that forms the basis for Executive Order 13692 and subsequent orders, I hereby order:

    Section 1.  Findings.  (a)  The Tren de Aragua gang, a transnational criminal organization with origins in Venezuela, has been designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the United States due to its extensive involvement in terrorist activities such as kidnapping and violent attacks, including the assassination of a Venezuelan opposition figure, that destabilize communities across the Western Hemisphere.  The prior administration’s open-borders policies facilitated the infiltration of the United States by members of Tren de Aragua, allowing these dangerous criminals to establish a foothold within United States cities and prey upon American citizens. The Maduro regime aided and facilitated the influx of Tren de Aragua members into the United States during the prior administration by failing to control its borders, permitting the gang’s operations to flourish within Venezuela, and refusing to take action against its members, thereby exacerbating the illegal immigration crisis.

    (b)  Existing sanctions on Venezuela, including those imposed in Executive Order 13692, Executive Order 13808 of August 24, 2017 (Imposing Additional Sanctions with Respect to the Situation in Venezuela), Executive Order 13850 of November 1, 2018 (Blocking Property of Additional Persons Contributing to the Situation in Venezuela), and Executive Order 13884 of August 5, 2019 (Blocking Property of the Government of Venezuela), remain in effect.  The actions and policies of the Maduro regime that were the basis for those orders continue to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States.  These actions include:

    (i)    The systematic undermining of democratic institutions through the suppression of free and fair elections and the illegitimate consolidation of power by the regime of Nicolás Maduro;

    (ii)   Endemic economic mismanagement and public corruption at the expense of the Venezuelan people and their prosperity;

    (iii)  The regime’s responsibility for the deepening humanitarian and public health crisis in Venezuela; and

    (iv)   The destabilization of the Western Hemisphere through the forced migration of millions of Venezuelans, imposing significant burdens on neighboring countries.

    Sec. 2.  Imposition of Tariffs.  (a)  On or after April 2, 2025, a tariff of 25 percent may be imposed on all goods imported into the United States from any country that imports Venezuelan oil, whether directly from Venezuela or indirectly through third parties.  Duties imposed by this order will be supplemental to duties on imports already imposed pursuant to IEEPA, section 232 of the Trade Expansion of 1962, section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, or any other authority.

    (b)  The Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the United States Trade Representative, is hereby authorized to determine in his discretion whether the tariff of 25 percent will be imposed on goods from any country that imports Venezuelan oil, directly or indirectly, on or after April 2, 2025.

    (c)  Once imposed on a country at the Secretary of State’s discretion, the tariff of 25 percent shall expire 1 year after the last date on which the country imported Venezuelan oil, or at an earlier date if the Secretary of Commerce, in consultation with the Secretary of State, the Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the United States Trade Representative, so determines at his discretion.  

    Sec. 3.  Administration and Enforcement.  (a)  The Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the United States Trade Representative, is hereby authorized to impose the tariffs established by this order.

    (b)  The Secretary of Commerce, in coordination with the Secretary of State and the Attorney General, is hereby authorized to:

    (i)    Determine whether a country has imported Venezuelan oil, directly or indirectly;

    (ii)   Issue regulations, guidance, and determinations as necessary to implement this order;

    (iii)  Coordinate with the heads of other executive departments and agencies to ensure compliance; and

    (iv)   Take any additional actions consistent with applicable law to carry out the purposes of this order.

    (c)  Any prior Presidential Proclamation, Executive Order, or other Presidential directive or guidance that is inconsistent with the direction in this order is hereby terminated, suspended, or modified to the extent necessary to give full effect to this order.

    (d)  Any other Presidential Proclamation, Executive Order, or other Presidential directive or guidance that applies to Venezuela or a country subject to a tariff under section 2 of this order remains in full effect, except to the extent specified in subsection (c) of this section.

    (e)  If the Secretary of State, at his discretion, decides to impose a tariff under section 2 of this order on China, that tariff shall also apply to both the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Macau Special Administrative Region, as a measure to reduce the risk of transshipment and evasion.

    Sec. 4.  Reporting and Review.  The Secretary of State and the Secretary of Commerce shall submit periodic reports to the President, within 180 days of the date of this order and no less than every 180 days thereafter, assessing the effectiveness of the tariffs described in this order and the ongoing conduct of the Maduro regime.

    Sec. 5.  Definitions.  For the purposes of this order:

    (a)  The term “Venezuelan oil” means crude oil or petroleum products extracted, refined, or exported from Venezuela, regardless of the nationality of the entity involved in the production or sale of such crude oil or petroleum products.

    (b)  The term “indirectly” includes purchases of Venezuelan oil through intermediaries or third countries where the origin of the oil can reasonably be traced to Venezuela, as determined by the Secretary of Commerce.

    Sec. 6.  Effective Date.  This order is effective at 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on April 2, 2025.

    Sec. 7.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

    (i)   The authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

    (ii)  The functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

                                  DONALD J. TRUMP

    THE WHITE HOUSE,

        March 24, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Universities sign UK-Borneo strategic forestry research partnership – University of Birmingham

    Source: University of Birmingham

    24 March 2025 – The University of Birmingham and the University College Sabah Foundation (UCSF) have forged ties to create new opportunities exploring how forest ecosystems will behave in in the future as atmospheric carbon dioxide levels rise.

    Professor Robin Mason, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International) at the University of Birmingham joined UCSF Vice-Chancellor Datuk Dr Rafiq Idris by video link to sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).  

    The MoU will see Birmingham climate change experts working with their counterparts in Borneo to explore the potential for major forest experiments and to investigate how the island’s forests respond to pressures cause by climate change – particularly in relation to biodiversity.

    The partners will explore opportunities to develop a global research and education centre around forestry management and biodiversity focussed on the needs of the people and nature of Sabah State and beyond.  

    Their partnership also aims to establish knowledge-exchange initiatives around energy infrastructure optimisation and decarbonisation – particularly related to sustainable energy derived from biomass sources.  

    Professor Robin Mason commented: “The University of Birmingham has an excellent track record in this space – particularly in relation to research at our own large-scale Free-Air CO2 Enrichment (FACE) facility and its counterpart in the Amazon.

    “As we prepare to contribute to the global discussion on climate change at COP 30 later this year, we look forward to developing our partnership with University College Sabah Foundation in Borneo – pushing forward the boundaries of global forestry research and adding to our understanding of the impact of elevated carbon levels on the world’s forests.”

    Development of the partnership has been supported by UK-Malaysia strategic business advisers WIPPD. Initial discussions between the partners will get to grips with Sabah State’s energy priorities, as well as exploring opportunities for educational and training initiatives.

    Datuk Dr Rafiq Bin Idris commented: “This collaboration marks a significant milestone for UCSF’s partnership with the University of Birmingham. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to advancing research and innovation. UCSF with other stakeholders will work together to participate and support in this global forestry and carbon research wherever possible. By working together, we aim to strengthen collaboration, enrich learning experiences and conduct research in strategic areas of mutual interest. We are happy to formalise this relationship through the signing of this MoU.”

    Mature forests are recognised as medium-term (decades long) carbon stores and natural climate solutions. The long-running FACE experiment at the University of Birmingham’s Institute of Forest Research (BIFoR), in central England, has contributed significantly to increasing global understanding of how forests may behave in response to changes in atmospheric carbon levels.

    FACE experiments mimic future atmospheric composition and provide valuable data on interaction between forests, atmosphere, and climate. In 2017, researchers at BIFoR established the long-term FACE experiment in a 180-year-old deciduous woodland dominated by 26-m tall English (or ‘pedunculate’) oak trees – six 30 metre diameter plots, three exposed to elevated CO2 with the other three plots acting as a control. The southeast Asian rainforests are one of the most important ecosystems for which a FACE experiment has yet to be attempted.

    Notes:  

    The University of Birmingham is ranked amongst the world’s top 100 institutions. Its work brings people from across the world to Birmingham, including researchers, teachers and more than 8,000 international students from over 150 countries.

    The most significant results to date from BIFoR FACE are published in Norby, R. J., … and A. R. MacKenzie (2024). Enhanced woody biomass production in a mature temperate forest under elevated CO2. Nature Climate Change. 14, 983–988. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-024-02090-3 .  

    The University of Birmingham is committed to achieving operational net zero carbon. It is seeking to change society and the environment positively, and use its research and education to make a major global contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Find out at www.birmingham.ac.uk/sustainability 

    The University of Birmingham is ranked 38th in the 2025 QS World Sustainability Rankings and rose 19 places in the 2024 People and Planet sustainability league table. Our global sustainability research is unlocking effective and equitable climate action and sustainability solutions.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Property Sector – Meet Cotality: CoreLogic Embraces a New Name and Bold Vision for the Future of the Property Industry

    Source: CoreLogic

    CoreLogic to rebrand to Cotality, reflecting the company’s mission to unify property professionals, strengthen industry relationships and drive innovation globally.

    CoreLogic today announced its global rebrand to Cotality, marking the company’s progression to a leader in property information, analytics and data-enabled solutions from its origins in financial services supporting the mortgage industry.

    This rebrand introduces a new name, logo and brand identity that reflect the company’s transformation into an information services provider that is creating a faster, smarter and more people-centric property industry.
    “The property ecosystem underpins the prosperity of individuals, businesses, governments and society as a whole. But at the core, it’s people, businesses and communities that drive it forward. Cotality’s insights build on this, by turning questions into futures you can see,” said Patrick Dodd, President and CEO of Cotality.
    “This rebrand reflects innovation, evolution and commitment to uniting property professionals – strengthening businesses, fostering relationships and powering outcomes that balance logic and data with humanity and emotion. Our name is changing to demonstrate the company’s unmatched dedication and service to clients around the world.”
    The new name, Cotality, reflects the company’s deep commitment to collaboration and connectivity, both internally and externally, while honoring its CoreLogic roots. It also signifies its approach of totality, delivering comprehensive data and insights across the entire property ecosystem and beyond. Tying it all together is the company’s spirit of vitality – placing the idea that helping people thrive is at the center of every insight and workflow.
    “While remaining true to our core DNA, the time is right to launch a refreshed brand that captures our evolution,” said Lisa Claes, CEO of Cotality International, pointing to its significantly expanded capability and customer solution set following a suite of acquisitions, sustained product investment and strengthened industry partnerships.
     Alongside the new Cotality name sits the tagline: Intelligence Beyond BoundsTM. 
    This tagline serves as both a first impression and a powerful expression of the company’s identity. It is an embodiment of the seamless integration of data, technology, artificial intelligence, insights and people that inspire Cotality to collaborate across the entire lifecycle of properties and homeowners.
    “For CoreLogic Australia, New Zealand and UK, Cotality captures our unique position and reinforces to the market that we are part of a global, technology-enabled information services leader, whose solutions truly unlock Intelligence beyond bounds.”
    “Our new name and tagline reflect the essence of who we are and where we’re headed. This transformation is a natural evolution, honoring our roots while embracing a future defined by collaboration, innovation and impact,” said Kristie Vainikos Stegen, Chief Brand and Communications Officer of Cotality. “This isn’t just about a new look; it’s about harnessing the power of data and technology and empowering people – internally and externally – to drive meaningful change globally.”
    Cotality empowers industry professionals across home lending, insurance, real estate and government worldwide. With operations in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, India and Germany, Cotality’s new global brand identity will build on CoreLogic’s trusted legacy to deliver innovation and drive smarter decisions while expanding its global reach.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Global Bodies – WHO in the Western Pacific urges decisive action to end TB

    Source: World Health Organization (WHO)

    Manila, 24 March 2025 – On World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, the World Health Organization (WHO) is calling for countries to invest in and deliver on commitments to end tuberculosis by 2030. This is especially urgent in the WHO Western Pacific Region, where nearly one in every five TB cases occur. With an estimated 1.9 million new cases and 95 000 deaths due to TB in 2023, the impact of this disease for families and communities in this Region is profound. Any delay in diagnosis or gap in care can have devastating consequences.

    TB is an infectious disease caused by bacteria that most often affect the lungs. It spreads through the air when people with TB cough, sneeze or spit. TB is preventable and curable with specific antibiotics, but it still kills more people than any other infection. Furthermore, if treatment is interrupted, TB bacteria can become drug resistant. Treatment of drug-resistant TB is more expensive and associated with more side-effects.

    Guidance from the Regional Framework on TB

    The regional TB response has been guided by the Western Pacific Regional Framework to End TB: 2021–2030.However, implementation of the Framework in countries in the Region is hindered by challenges such as limited health-care infrastructure, inadequate research and innovation capacity, unaddressed poverty and inequities, and lack of sustainable funding. Additionally, information on people with TB who are diagnosed by private health-care providers is often not reported to national TB programmes, making it difficult or impossible for them to receive the latest WHO-recommended diagnostics and treatment regimens.

    A recent article published in the International Journal of Tuberculosis and Lung Disease titled “The Western Pacific Regional Framework to End TB: Overview and critical reflection” examines the Regional Framework. Co-authored by WHO staff and partner agencies, the article underscores the urgency of transforming commitments into action, providing a road map for countries to implement the Framework and address persistent barriers to TB elimination.

    “Every missed TB case is a lost opportunity to save a life,” said Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific. “We must turn our commitments into decisive action, ensuring that every person at risk gets the timely, high-quality diagnosis and care that they deserve.”

    Strengthening TB services and resilient health systems

    While most countries have integrated TB screening into their routine health services, some still face challenges. Strengthening these efforts will enable early detection and continuity of care, particularly in underserved areas. Modern approaches and tools − such as telemedicine, portable diagnostic devices and rapid tests – can help health workers detect TB cases early and ensure that treatment and services continue even during crises.

    The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vulnerability of TB services to crises, and demonstrated the need for resilient and scalable approaches. Countries need to ensure that diagnostics, medications and patient support remain available free of charge even during public health emergencies.

    To address underreporting of TB cases, public−private collaboration should be considered and improved. This can be done by linking private providers to national TB programmes, offering incentives for private sector reporting, and enforcing mandatory TB case reporting. This will help patients in private care access WHO-recommended diagnostics and treatments, which may be free or low-cost in the public sector.

    Innovation in diagnostics and treatments is also essential to strengthen TB care in both the public and private sectors. “Every cent invested in TB care and research brings us closer to a TB-free future. To get there, we need public−private partnerships and sustainable funding mechanisms,” said Dr Piukala.

    Addressing social determinants and improving multisectoral collaboration

    Addressing the social determinants of TB – which include poverty and inequities − requires a holistic approach with strong multisectoral involvement and accountability. Financial protection mechanisms, such as compensation for people who are being treated for TB and are unable to work, are essential to reduce economic hardship. Expanding social support programmes − for example, food assistance in high-risk communities − can also decrease the risk of TB infection. Improving access to care in underserved areas will help ensure more equitable treatment coverage.

    Effective implementation of the Framework requires strong local political commitment and context-specific interventions. With declines in sources of external funding for TB control, countries must increase domestic investment in TB programmes, incorporating control of the disease into national health budgets. Long-term, sustainable financing models are essential for continuous service delivery without reliance on external donors.

    WHO is providing clear guidance and targeted support to help countries turn commitments into action. This is essential to protect hard-won gains and achieve ambitious targets to end TB by 2030.

    “Ending TB is about upholding the right of every individual to live a healthy and dignified life,” said Dr Piukala. “With political commitment, sustainable funding and united action across sectors, we can accelerate progress and move closer to a TB-free Western Pacific.”

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: New report on cultural heritage resilience in Venice now available

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Venice has taken a significant step in strengthening the resilience of its cultural heritage with the publication of the Disaster Resilience Assessment of the city of Venice. This report is the outcome of a workshop held in July 2024, organized by the Venice Sustainability Foundation (VSF) in collaboration with the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia and CORILA (Consorzio per il coordinamento delle ricerche inerenti al sistema lagunare di Venezia).

    The workshop brought together local institutions, experts, and stakeholders to assess Venice’s cultural heritage resilience using the MCR2030 Disaster Resilience Scorecard for Cities: Cultural Heritage Addendum. The assessment helped identify gaps in current protection strategies, evaluate vulnerabilities of tangible and intangible heritage, and strengthen risk-informed planning for disaster resilience.

    Key findings from the report provide valuable insights for cities worldwide looking to enhance disaster risk reduction and cultural heritage protection strategies. The Venice Municipality has endorsed the report, and a follow-up consultation will take place in the coming months to facilitate knowledge exchange with other cities.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: More Investment, More Jobs, and More Money in Americans’ Pockets

    Source: The White House

    More Investment, More Jobs, and More Money in Americans’ Pockets

    Today, Hyundai announced a $20 billion investment in the United States — including $5.8 billion for a new steel plant in Louisiana, which will create nearly 1,500 jobs. The investment, which builds on Hyundai’s pledge earlier this year to “further localize production in the U.S.,” is the latest success in President Donald J. Trump’s pursuit of a Made in America renaissance.

    It’s further proof that President Trump’s economic agenda is working.

    Hyundai is far from the only automaker planning major investments as President Trump leverages tariffs to remake the U.S. into a global manufacturing powerhouse:

    • Stellantis announced a $5 billion investment in its U.S. manufacturing network — including re-opening an Illinois manufacturing plant — as it pledges to increase domestic vehicle production.
    • Volkswagen is considering shifting production of the high-end Audi and Porsche brands to the U.S.
    • Honda is expected to produce its next-generation Civic hybrid model in Indiana.
    • Nissan is considering moving production from Mexico to the U.S.
    • Rolls-Royce is expected to “ramp up” production in the U.S. by hiring more American workers and expand its U.S.-based operations.
    • Volvo is considering expanding its U.S.-based output.

    It’s not just the auto sector; domestic and foreign companies have pledged trillions in new investments since President Trump took office:

    • Project Stargate, led by Japan-based Softbank and U.S.-based OpenAI and Oracle, announced a $500 billion private investment in U.S.-based artificial intelligence infrastructure.
    • Apple announced a $500 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing and training.
    • Nvidia announced it will invest hundreds of billions of dollars over the next four years in U.S.-based manufacturing.
    • Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) announced a $100 billion investment in U.S.-based chips manufacturing.
    • Eli Lilly and Company announced a $27 billion investment in domestic manufacturing.
    • United Arab Emirates-based DAMAC Properties announced a $20 billion investment in new U.S.-based data centers.
    • France-based CMA CGM, a global shipping giant, announced a $20 billion investment in U.S. shipping and logistics, creating 10,000 new jobs.
    • Merck announced it will invest $8 billion in the U.S. over the next several years after opening a new $1 billion North Carolina manufacturing facility.
    • Clarios announced a $6 billion plan to expand its domestic manufacturing operations.
    • GE Aerospace announced a $1 billion investment in manufacturing across 16 states — creating 5,000 new jobs.
    • GE Vernova announced it will invest nearly $600 million in U.S. manufacturing over the next two years, which will create more than 1,500 new jobs.
    • London-based Diageo announced a $415 million investment in a new Alabama manufacturing facility.
    • Dublin-based Eaton Corporation announced a $340 million investment in a new South Carolina-based manufacturing facility for its three-phase transformers.
    • Germany-based Siemens announced a $285 million investment in U.S. manufacturing and AI data centers, which will create more than 900 new skilled manufacturing jobs.
    • Paris Baguette announced a $160 million investment to construct a manufacturing plant in Texas.
    • Switzerland-based ABB announced a $120 million investment to expand production of its low-voltage electrification products in Tennessee and Mississippi.
    • Saica Group, a Spain-based corrugated packaging maker, announced plans to build a $110 million new manufacturing facility in Anderson, Indiana.
    • Paris-based Saint-Gobain announced a new $40 million NorPro manufacturing facility in Wheatfield, New York.
    • India-based Sygene International announced a $36.5 million acquisition of a Baltimore biologics manufacturing facility.
    • Asahi Group Holdings, one of the largest Japanese beverage makers, announced a $35 million investment to boost production at its Wisconsin plant.
    • Samsung is considering moving its dryer production from Mexico to South Carolina.
    • LG is considering moving its refrigerator manufacturing from Mexico to Tennessee.
    • Italian spirits group Campari is “assessing the opportunities to expand its production in the U.S.”
    • Essity, a Swedish hygiene product manufacturer, is considering shifting production to the U.S.
    • Taiwan-based Compal Electronics is considering a U.S.-based expansion.
    • Taiwan-based Inventec is expected to expand its manufacturing operations into Texas.
    • LVMH, a French luxury giant, is “seriously considering” an expansion to its U.S.-based production capabilities.
    • Cra-Z-Art, the biggest toymaker in the U.S., said it will move a “large percentage” of its China-based manufacturing back home.
    • Prepac, a Canadian furniture manufacturer, announced it will move production from Canada to the U.S.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: INVESTOR SUMMIT SPEECH

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Ka nui te mihi kia kotou, kia ora, and good morning everyone. 
    To those of you visiting us from overseas, can I extend a very special welcome to each and every one of you. 
    Welcome to New Zealand, welcome to the best country on planet Earth, and welcome to our stunning Auckland waterfront. 
    And to all those Kiwis I see in the room today, thank you for being here and showcasing some of the extraordinary businesses and talent that exists in our business community. 
    And it was a real pleasure to meet many of you informally last night, and my Ministers and I are really looking forward to spending much more time with you over the next two days. 
    I meant it before when I said this is the best country on planet Earth. 
    Because what makes New Zealand so very special and unique is our Kiwi Spirit which is exemplified in the qualities, character, and attitude of New Zealanders.  
    For us, it‘s about resilience and determination, ingenuity and innovation, adventure and exploration, creativity and practical problem-solving, humility and mateship, fairness, and a deep care for our land and community. 
    It’s no surprise that growing up in New Zealand, our heroes are Kiwi trailblazers and pioneers, people who have dared to push boundaries, challenge the status quo, and leave a lasting mark on the world.
    From our early Māori explorers navigating vast oceans guided by the stars, to modern-day adventurers like Sir Edmund Hillary conquering Everest.   
    To Ernest Rutherford, the father of nuclear physics, who split the atom and revolutionised our understanding of science. To Rocket Lab’s Peter Beck and his groundbreaking developments in rocket technology launching satellites into space. 
    And Kate Shepperd, who secured New Zealand women the right to vote – the very first country in the world to do so. 
    And our phenomenal athletes who show the world what determination and talent can achieve. Or the stunning world of The Lord of the Rings created by one of our most creative storytellers – Peter Jackson.
    We may be a small country, but time and again, we have proven that size is no barrier to greatness. From the peaks of Everest to the frontlines of social progress, from scientific breakthroughs to arts and sporting legends, Kiwis have led the way.
    And we’re living in an age when New Zealand has never been closer to the action – right in the middle of the booming Indo-Pacific with direct connections to Asia and North America. 
    With the weight of global economic activity shifting from the Atlantic to the Pacific and digital connections breaking down barriers, New Zealand has never been closer to the world.  
    But for all our spirit and hard work, we also know New Zealand can’t do it alone. 
    We’re a small country of around five million people like Ireland, Singapore, and Denmark. 
    Just as those countries have prospered by tapping into larger markets, building stronger international connections, and fostering trade and investment, New Zealand needs to do the same. 
    If we want our country to thrive, we need to work even harder to compete on the world stage – and, in particular, to unlock the commercial partnerships that will supercharge the next generation of growth in the New Zealand economy. 
    That means the Government will work more with Industry to deliver much of the infrastructure and projects that will be showcased over the next two days. 
    Many of your organisations will have extensive experience delivering outstanding world-class infrastructure to national and regional governments worldwide.
    I want New Zealand to seize every opportunity to partner with the private sector and deliver a fresh generation of infrastructure investment to unleash economic growth.  
    But it’s not just infrastructure. 
    I want to develop closer ties between outstanding New Zealanders and their companies based here, with investors and organisations based offshore.  
    I also want to unlock more partnerships between indigenous Iwi Māori organisations and commercial investors, whether they are based in Auckland or Abu Dhabi, Dunedin or Denver.  
    I want start-ups based in Christchurch and Hamilton fighting for seed capital in San Francisco and London – winning their share of global influence and success. 
    Breaking perceptions about the New Zealand economy is critical to that. 
    Yes, we have globally competitive dairy, film, and tourist industries, but our space industry is also operating at the cutting edge, ranking fourth in the world for launches behind the US, China, and Russia. 
    Over the next two days, you will hear more about our plan to unleash growth and ensure New Zealand reaches its full potential. 
    We want you to join us on that journey, and we will have several opportunities on display. 
    That will include the opportunity to deliver infrastructure in partnership with the Crown – both in the form of immediate opportunities and the pipeline of projects going forward. 
    It will include working with Iwi Māori organisations to grow their businesses as they make a multigenerational investment in their people. 
    It will include opportunities in a range of specific sectors where we believe New Zealand has a unique role to play and where we expect the Government to focus its efforts on growth. 
    In the very short term, we have made good economic progress in our first year in Government, although there’s still a long way to go. 
    New Zealand is now in the early stages of a cyclical economic recovery, with growth beginning to pick up and unemployment expected to peak around its current rate. 
    Inflation has fallen and now sits comfortably anchored within the Reserve Bank’s target band at 2.2%. 
    Annual tourism expenditure was up 23% last year, and services and manufacturing activity have returned to growth after extended periods of contraction. 
    Business confidence is at around its highest level in a decade. As confidence has risen, retail trade has picked up, and growth is expected to rise, hitting 3% in 2026. 
    So, there’s now cause for optimism in the New Zealand economy that the recovery is underway and better days lie ahead. 
    For policymakers here in New Zealand, that poses an opportunity – not just to watch the economic recovery, but to shape it. 
    Step-changing economic productivity, lifting incomes, creating jobs, and unleashing the investment New Zealand needs to become much more prosperous.  
    Which brings us to today. 
    I know the only way we will raise incomes, lift New Zealanders’ standard of living, and fund the quality public services we rely on is by unlocking more investment, more innovation, and more entrepreneurship.
    Having broken inflation last year, our collective focus has now turned to shaping the economic recovery – ensuring we take every possible step to lift New Zealand’s economic performance. 
    That renewed energy and effort forms the backdrop of this Summit. 
    My Government is working around the clock to make New Zealand an outstanding place to do business. 
    But before I highlight some of those reforms and my economic priorities as Prime Minister, I want to make a more fundamental point about New Zealand as an investment destination. 
    New Zealand has been and will continue to be a poster child for social and political stability in a more volatile and challenging world. 
    That reputation is long-standing, but in challenging times, it has come into sharper focus. 
    We stand up for our values and live by them, too. That means respecting civil liberties, private property and private life, and the democratic and social institutions that underpin them. 
    We consistently advocate for a rules-based international order that allows small countries like New Zealand to thrive. Free trade isn’t just an idea in New Zealand; it’s the bedrock of our prosperity. 
    For farmers and growers living in rural New Zealand, it has allowed a modern economic miracle: the opportunity to not just collectively operate one of the most efficient agricultural sectors in the world but to live in some of the most stunning parts of the world while they do it. 
    Finally, we might disagree sometimes – but we’re not disagreeable. Over the next two days, you will hear from various political leaders.
    You will hear from senior Ministers representing each of the three political parties in our Coalition Government, as well as Barbara Edmonds, the Labour Party’s Opposition Finance Spokesperson.  
    It’s pretty normal in New Zealand for political parties to disagree with each other – often loudly, and sometimes even with my own Coalition colleagues. 
    But I believe the broad political representation that is here demonstrates that most New Zealanders share the same motivations – higher incomes and more financial freedom, quality public services, and a long-standing belief that our best days lie ahead of us. 
    When you look at all the tension, volatility, and strife in the world today, I think that makes us pretty special, and a very attractive destination for anyone looking to take shelter from the global storm. 
    Political stability, however, is not an excuse for a lack of ambition. 
    You should be under no illusions about my commitment to the Government’s growth agenda and the reforms we are pushing through to unleash investment in the New Zealand economy. 
    Last month, Minister for Economic Growth Nicola Willis published our Government’s Going for Growth Agenda – we have copies for you here – which outlines a range of actions we are taking to get the New Zealand economy moving and realising its vast potential. 
    Each of those actions fits into one of five pillars we have identified as critical to lifting economic growth and improving New Zealanders’ standard of living:

    Developing talent,
    Encouraging innovation, science, and technology,
    Introducing competitive business settings,
    Promoting global trade and investment,
    And delivering infrastructure for growth. 

    Across each of those pillars, we have Ministers from across the Government working day and night to drive through reform – in transport,  tourism, aquaculture, construction, advanced aviation, mining, energy, agriculture, and horticulture. 
    Over the next two days, you will hear much more about our work programme in those areas that will play a critical role in the next phase of New Zealand’s growth story – with more information on a series of specific investable propositions available in the private sector. 
    Among that reform programme are some significant changes designed to achieve a profound step change in the New Zealand economy that I would like to touch on today. 
    For a start, we are clearing away decades of broken planning law – brick by brick. 
    We have introduced the Fast Track regime, which streamlines the consenting process for projects that are regionally and nationally significant. 
    In short, instead of seeking different permissions under different laws, under Fast Track, it’s all done in one place, with a faster process and fewer hurdles to getting underway. 
    That regime is now up and running, and I know a number of projects have already submitted applications since it became operational last month. 
    In short, if you want to build a wind farm, a highway, a quarry, hundreds of new homes, or any other regionally or nationally significant projects, we are busting down the doors to make it happen faster and cheaper. 
    149 projects have already been listed in legislation, but nothing prevents new projects from applying for referral into the scheme. 
    And it doesn’t stop with Fast Track. 
    Further planning reforms are also on the way, including a total replacement of the Resource Management Act. 
    We are also eliminating the barriers to more significant investment in energy and generation to unleash abundant, affordable energy. 
    The impact of unaffordable and unreliable energy on economic growth has been brought into the spotlight in recent years following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. 
    Industries in Europe that had historically relied on access to low-cost natural gas came under tremendous strain, putting pressure on growth and household incomes. 
    In New Zealand, we are lucky that 85% of electricity generation is already renewable, thanks to decades of investment in hydro, wind, solar, and geothermal.  
    But we can’t risk falling short in the years to come. So, as a Government, we are tearing down the barriers to fresh energy investment. That means introducing more permissive rules for renewables.
    But it also means ending restrictions on offshore oil and gas exploration – and providing certainty for market participants by confidently saying that gas has to be part of New Zealand’s energy mix going forward.  
    At the same time, we are making it easier to invest in New Zealand from offshore.  
    That started last year, with fresh directives to our Overseas Investment Office, which slashed processing times and made applications more predictable. 
    Today, an application for offshore investment is approved within 18 days on average, compared to 28 days prior to those changes.
    And two weeks ago, we announced upcoming changes to legislation designed to further improve the timeliness and reliability of our overseas investment regime. 
    We also announced just last month that, from April 1 this year, individuals who invest at least $5 million in New Zealand will be eligible for an Active Investor Visa, with a pathway to residency after three years. 
    I know that for many of you from offshore in this room, that will be positive news. But as a New Zealander, I have to say it’s an even bigger deal for the sharp, ambitious Kiwis here and all around the country, who are hungry for capital and hungry to grow. 
    We know the impact foreign investment has on local businesses. It’s not just the capital investment; it’s the skills, connections, and linkages into new markets. 
    That translates into higher wages, more jobs, more money in Kiwi wallets, and more resilient businesses that make an even greater contribution in the community. 
    We need more of it, especially for a small country hungry to grow like New Zealand, which is why I have invited many of you here today. 
    I believe New Zealand’s best days are ahead of us—and we can make them happen if we get serious about partnering with commercial expertise to solve some of our biggest economic challenges and seize on the huge economic opportunities ahead of us. 
    Helping to end New Zealand’s infrastructure deficit through private sector partnership.
    Fattening out our capital markets and opening up new sectors for growth.
    Strengthening our connections to the world, enhancing technology, lifting productivity, and opening new markets for our products and services. 
    Over the next two days, you will hear from a range of leaders—cabinet Ministers, business leaders, and Iwi Māori leaders—who I know are committed to responding to our challenges and opportunities. 
    There will also be plenty of time across both days for closer interactions and to discuss the opportunities and challenges that you are confronting in your own businesses. 
    While you’re here, please also enjoy our hospitality and culture. We’re not just here to do business—we’re here to build relationships and make the case for New Zealand as an outstanding country to invest in, to visit, and to establish roots in. 
    So once again, and on behalf of the New Zealand Government and the New Zealand people, welcome to this year’s Summit. 
    I’m excited to get stuck in – and I can’t wait to hear more from you over the next two days about your approach to business and the difference you could make for growth, investment, jobs, and opportunity for us here in New Zealand. 
    Thank you. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INDIAN NAVY’s MAIDEN INITIATIVES OF INDIAN OCEAN SHIP SAGAR (IOS SAGAR) AND AFRICA INDIA KEY MARITIME ENGAGEMENT (AIKEYME)

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 6:00PM by PIB Delhi

    Over the past ten years, Indian Navy has deepened its partnerships with maritime agencies of Indian Ocean Region (IOR), to enhance maritime security in consonance with the GoI’s vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR). Indian Navy has been collaborating with navies of IOR countries on several initiatives such as joint naval exercises, coordinated patrols, information sharing, HADR efforts, capacity building and other diplomatic engagements. With SAGAR entering its second decade, and the announcement of Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions (MAHASAGAR) by Hon’ble Prime Minister, during his visit to Mauritius in March 2025, Indian Navy is launching its maiden initiatives of IOS Sagar and AIKEYME, which are aimed at consolidating Indian Navy’s stature as the ‘Preferred Security Partner’ and ‘First Responder’ in Indian Ocean Region.

    IOS Sagar

    Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar, is an initiative towards continued cooperation with IOR nations. One Indian Naval ship (INS Sunayna) is being deployed to the Southwest IOR with a combined crew of India and nine Friendly Foreign Countries (Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka , South Africa). The ship is planned to be deployed for over a month in April 2025, and would be undertaking port calls at Dar-es-Salaam, Nacala, Port Louis, Port Victoria and Male and Joint surveillance of Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) of Tanzania, Mozambique, Mauritius and Seychelles.

    The personnel from FFCs would undergo a training capsule of two weeks at various naval professional schools at Kochi, including training at Sea. The FFC personnel would be engaged in wholeship activities, watch keeping and other events related to their respective branches/ trade. The participants of IOS Sagar are also planned to witness harbour phase activities of Exercise AIKEYME at Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania.

    AIKEYME

    India and Africa give immense importance to maritime security and have reiterated their commitment to increase cooperation in tackling maritime security threats such as piracy, illegal activities including trafficking, unregulated and unreported fishing through sharing of information and surveillance. A large scale multilateral maritime engagement exercise with African Countries, titled as ‘Africa India Key Maritime Engagement’ also known as ‘AIKEYME’, which means ‘Unity’ in Sanskrit is an initiative in this direction to enhance interoperability with the navies/ maritime agencies. The maiden edition of the exercise is being co-hosted by Indian Navy and Tanzania Peoples’ Defence Force (TPDF) and would be conducted at/ off Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania, and is planned to be inaugurated by Hon’ble RM Shri Rajnath Singh in mid-April 2025. The exercise is planned over six days and includes participation from Comoros, Djibouti, Eritrea, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles and South Africa in addition to the co-hosts. The Harbour Phase of the exercise would include TableTop and Command Post exercises on Piracy and Information sharing, along with training on Seamanship and Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS). The Sea Phase comprises Seamanship evolutions, Search and Rescue, VBSS, Small Arms firing and Helicopter Operations.

    _____________________________________________________________

    VM/SPS                                                                                                        64/25

    (Release ID: 2114491) Visitor Counter : 50

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Development and Promotion of Tourist Sites

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 4:05PM by PIB Delhi

    Development and promotion of tourist destinations and products, is undertaken by the respective State Government/UT Administration. The Ministry of Tourism complements the efforts of States/UTs by developing and promoting various tourism products of the country, including religious and cultural tourism through various schemes and initiatives.

    The Ministry of Tourism through its central sector schemes of ‘Swadesh Darshan (SD)’ and ‘Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD)’ complements the efforts of tourism infrastructure development in the country by extending financial assistance to the State Governments/UT Administrations.

    The Ministry of Tourism had undertaken a third party impact assessment of Swadesh Darshan (Integrated Development of Theme-Based Tourist Circuits) through National Productivity Council in 2019. The study states that ‘Swadesh Darshan Scheme’ has been able to give a fillip to livelihood opportunities and create employment for the local communities in construction phase.

    The Ministry of Tourism after a comprehensive review has now revamped this scheme as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 with the objective to develop sustainable and responsible tourism destinations.

    The Swadesh and PRASHAD Schemes aim to boost local economies and create jobs by developing infrastructure, marketing destinations, and supporting community-based tourism.

    Ministry of Tourism has also been providing financial assistance to State Governments/ UT Administrations for organizing fairs/festivals and tourism related events under its Domestic Promotion & Publicity including Hospitality (DPPH) Scheme.

    Ministry launched the ‘Chalo India’ campaign during its participation in World Tourism Market held in London in November 2025 to encourage the Indian diaspora to become Incredible India ambassadors and encourage their non-Indian friends to visit India. As an incentive under this initiative gratis e-tourist visa for foreign visitors traveling to India is granted, the program is valid till 31 March 2025.

    Ministry of Home Affairs has relaxed the Protected Area Permit (PAP)/Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for a further period of 5 Years i.e. till 31.12.2027 for the identified Islands in the Union Territory of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

    Ministry of Home Affairs has issued relaxation of PAP/RAP for a further period of 5 years beyond 31.12.2022 in the states of Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2114405) Visitor Counter : 67

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Wedding Tourism

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 4:05PM by PIB Delhi

    Development and promotion of tourist destinations and products, including wedding tourism is undertaken by the respective State Government/Union Territory Administration. The Ministry complements the efforts of States/UTs by promoting various tourism products of the country, including wedding tourism through various initiatives.

    The Ministry of Tourism launched a promotional campaign “India says I do” which aims at showcasing India as a premier wedding destination on the global stage. The campaign aims to leverage digital marketing, website, social media campaigns, influencers, offline and online activations.

    The Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) organized the ‘Wed in India’ expo alongside the Great India Travel Bazaar at Jaipur on 5thMay 2024. The event was attended by wedding planners from India and abroad, State Governments, media, international and domestic tour operators and event management companies.

    Registration of marriages is dealt by the local administrations in various States and Union Territories.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

     

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2114406) Visitor Counter : 76

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Promotion of Cruise and Adventure Tourism

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 4:02PM by PIB Delhi

    Development and promotion of tourist destinations and products, including adventure tourism is undertaken by the respective State Government/Union Territory (UT) Administration. The Ministry complements the efforts of States/UTs by developing and promoting various tourism products of the country, including cruise tourism through various schemes and initiatives.

    The Ministry of Tourism through its central sector schemes of ‘Swadesh Darshan (SD)’, ‘Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD)’ and ‘Assistance to Central Agencies for Tourism Infrastructure Development’ extends financial assistance to the State Governments/UT Administrations for tourism infrastructure development in the country.

    The list of projects sanctioned for Coastal Circuit and Cruise Project under Swadesh Darshan Scheme are given at Annexure-I. The list of projects sanctioned for infrastructure development at Ports and Waterways under the scheme of Assistance to Central Agencies are given at Annexure-II.

    In order to provide impetus to the development of adventure tourism in the country, National Strategy for adventure tourism has been prepared.

    The Strategy focuses on developing adventure destinations, promoting safety in adventure tourism, skill development, capacity building and marketing.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

     

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

     

     

    List of Projects sanctioned for Coastal Circuit and Cruise Project under Swadesh Darshan Scheme

    S.

    No.

    Name of State

    Year

    Project Name

    Amount Sanctioned

    1.

    Andhra Pradesh

    2014-15

    Developmentof Circuit at Kakinada – Hope Island – Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary – Passarlapudi – Aduru – S Yanam – Kotipally

    67.83

    2.

    Andhra Pradesh

    2015-16

    Developmentof         Nellore, Pulikat Lake, Ubblamadugu water falls, Nelapattu Bird          Sanctuary, Mypadu Beach, Ramatheertham

    49.55

    3.

    Puducherry

    2015-16

    Development of Dubrayapet, Arikamedu China Veerampattinam, Chunnabmar, Nallavadu, Manapet, Kalapet, French Quarter, Tamil Quarter and Yanam

    58.44

    4.

    West Bengal

    2015-16

    Development of Beach Circuit: Udaipur- Digha- Shankarpur- Tajpur- Mandarmani- Fraserganj- Bakkhlai-Henry Island

    67.99

    5.

    Maharashtra

    2015-16

    Development of Sindhudurg Coastal Circuit (Shiroda Beach, Sagareshwar, Tarkarli, Vijaydurg (Beach & Creek), Devgad (Fort & Beach), Mitbhav, Tondavali, Mocehmad and Nivati Fort).

    19.06

    6.

    Goa

    2016-17

    Development of Sinquerim-Baga, Anjuna- Vagator, Morjim-Keri, Aguada Fort and Aguada Jail.

    97.65

    7.

    Odisha

    2016-17

    Development of Gopalpur, Barkul, Satapada and Tampara.

    70.82

    8.

    Andaman & Nicobar Islands

    2016-17

    Development of Long Island-Ross Smith Island- Neil Island- Havelock Island- Baratang Island- Port Blair.

    27.57

    9.

    Tamil Nadu

    2016-17

    Developmentof         Chennai-Mamamallapuram–Rameshwaram–Kulasekaranpattinam            – Kanyakumari

    73.13

    10.

    Goa

    2017-18

    Developmentof         Rua      De Orum Creek-Don Paula-Colva – Benaulim

    99.35

    11.

    Kerala

    2018-19

    Development of Malanad Malabar Cruise Tourism Project

    57.35

     

    Total

    688.74

    *******

    ANNEXURE-II

     

     

    List of Projects sanctioned for infrastructure development at Ports and Waterways under the scheme of Assistance to Central Agencies

    S.

    No.

    States/ UTs

    Year

    Name of Projects

    Implementing Agency

    Amount sanctioned

    1.

    Tamil Nadu

    2012-13

    Cruise Passenger Facilities Centre in the existing Passenger Terminal at Chennai Port.

    Chennai Port Trust

    1724.66

    2.

    Goa

    2014-15

    Cruise Terminal Building at Mormugao Port Trust

    Mormugao Port trust

    879.04

    3.

    Kerala

    2016-17

    Development of a Walkway/ Promenade on Willingdon Island, Cochin, Kerala

    Cochin Trust Port

    901.00

    4.

    Kerala

    2016-17

    Central Financial Assistance forupgrading of Births & Backup area of Ernakulam Wharf

    Cochin Trust Port

    2141.00

    5.

    Maharashtra

    2016-17

    Central Financial Assistance to Mumbai Port Trust for Development of Kanoji Angre Lighthouse as a tourist Destination

    Mumbai Port trust

    1500.00

    6.

    Maharashtra

    2017-18

    Up-gradation /modernization to International Cruise terminal at Indira Dock, Mumbai.

    Mumbai Port Trust

    1250.00

    7.

    Goa

    2018-19

    Improvement of immigration facility and

    deepening of existing cruise berth at Mormougao

    Mormugao Port trust

    1316.40

    8.

    Kerala

    2018-19

    Developing infrastructure at Cochin Port Cruise Terminal.

    Cochin Trust Port

    120.79

    9.

    Kerala

    2018-19

    Creation of additional tourism facilities at the Cochin Port Trust Walkway

    Cochin Trust Port

    466.47

    10.

    Andhra Pradesh

    2018-19

    Construction of Cruise-cum-Coastal Cargo Terminal at  Channel berth area in Outer Harbour of Visakhapatnam Port

    Visakhapatnam Port Trust

    3850.00

    11.

    Kerala

    2019-20

    CFA for Development of Additional infrastructure in the new Cochin Port Trust Terminal

    Cochin Trust Port

    1029.70

    12.

    Goa

    2021-22

    Creation of facilities for International and Domestic Cruise Vessels at Mormugao Port, Goa by Mormugao Port Trust (MPT)

    Mormugao Port Trust

    5000.00

    13.

    Maharashtra

    2021-22

    Upgradation/ Moderni sation to International Cruise Terminal at Indira Dock, Mumbai Port Trust

    Mumbai Port Trust

    3750.00

    Total

    23929.06

     

    *******

    (Release ID: 2114401) Visitor Counter : 65

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Incredible India Content Hub

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 4:04PM by PIB Delhi

    Development and promotion of tourist destinations and products, including religious tourism is undertaken by the respective State Government/UT Administration. The Ministry of Tourism complements the efforts of States/UTs by developing and promoting various tourism products of the country through various schemes and initiatives.

    Ministry of Tourism works closely with Ministry of Road Transport and Ministry of Civil Aviation for improving road and air connectivity to tourist destinations. Under RCS UDAN, Ministry of Tourism collaborated with Ministry of Civil Aviation and shared the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) amount for 53 tourism routes identified.

    In order to attract foreign investment in the tourism sector, 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is allowed under the automatic route in the tourism and hospitality industry in India, subject to applicable regulations and laws. 100% FDI is allowed in tourism construction projects, including the development of hotels, resorts and recreational facilities.

    To give fillip to private investment in tourism, three-star or higher category classified hotels located outside cities with population of more than 1 million, ropeways & cable cars and Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre Projects with minimum built-up floor area of 100,000 square metres of exclusively exhibition space or convention space or both combined, have been included in the Harmonized Master List of infrastructure sub-sectors.

    Further in Union Budget 2025-26, an announcement for inclusion of hotels located in the top 50 tourist destination sites in the country, identified for development in challenge mode, in the Harmonized Master List of infrastructure sub-sectors.

    The Ministry has launched the revamped version of Incredible India Digital Platform (IIDP) on September 27, 2024 as a comprehensive resource for travellers and stakeholders interested in exploring the country’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and diverse attractions. One of the new feature of the IIDP is the Incredible India Content Hub – a comprehensive digital repository, featuring rich collection of high-quality images, films, brochures, and newsletters related to tourism in India. This repository is intended for the use of a diverse range of stakeholders, including tour operators, journalists, students, researchers, film makers, authors, influencers, content creators, government officials, and ambassadors. The IIDP uses an AI-powered tool that personalizes visitor experiences by offering real-time weather updates, city exploration, and essential travel services. The portal has also partnered with several OTAs (Online Travel Agents) and Stakeholders for seamless booking of flights, hotels, cabs, and buses and tickets for ASI monuments.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2114402) Visitor Counter : 59

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Measures to Curb Air Pollution in Tourism Industry

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 4:03PM by PIB Delhi

    As informed by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Air pollution in Delhi is a collective result of multiple factors including high level of anthropogenic activities in the high-density populated areas in NCR, arising from various sectors viz. Vehicular Pollution, Industrial Pollution, Dust from Construction & Demolition Project activities, Road and Open Areas Dust, Biomass Burning, Municipal Solid Waste burning, Fires in Landfills, air pollution from dispersed sources, etc.

    During post-monsoon and winter months, lower temperature, lower mixing heights, inversion conditions and stagnant winds lead to trapping of the pollutants resulting in high pollution in the region. This is further aggravated due to the emissions from episodic events like firecrackers and stubble burning in NCR States.

    Air Quality Index is a tool for effective communication of air quality status to people in terms, which are easy to understand. It transforms complex air quality data of various pollutants into a single number (index value), nomenclature and colour.

    The web-based system is designed to provide AQI on real time basis. It is an automated system that captures data from continuous monitoring stations without human intervention, and displays AQI based on running average values. For manual monitoring stations, an AQI calculator is developed wherein data can be fed manually to get AQI value.

    The AQI values ranges from 0 to 500. There are six AQI categories, namely Good, Satisfactory, Moderately polluted, Poor, Very Poor, and Severe which are mentioned below:

    AQI Categories

    AQI value

    Good

    0–50

    Satisfactory

    51-100

    Moderate

    101-200

    Poor

    201-300

    Very Poor

    301-400

    Severe

    >400

    Various initiatives have been taken for control of pollution from different sources (transport, C&D activities, industries etc.) in Delhi-NCR, which has resulted in overall improvement in air quality. However, effectiveness of each of these actions can’t be evaluated in absolute terms as meteorological parameters like wind speed and mixing height which are variable factors also play crucial role in governing overall air quality.  Various measures taken by the Government to reduce Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR from different sources, are enclosed as Annexure-I.

    Due to the concerted efforts made by all stakeholders, gradual improvement has been observed in Delhi air quality. The number of days of Good-Moderate Air Quality Index (AQI) categories has increased to more than 200 for consecutive two years i.e. 2023 and 2024 in comparison of 110 days in 2016. Further, 2024 has recorded maximum number of days (209) in Good-Moderate AQI categories since 2016, except for COVID year 2020. The details of AQI of Delhi from 2016-2024 are enclosed as Annexure-II.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

    ANNEXURE-I

    Steps taken by the Government for abatement of Air Pollution in Delhi NCR:

    1. National Clean Air Programme:
    • National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) has been launched by Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) in January 2019 with an aim to improve air quality in 130 cities (non-attainment cities and Million Plus Cities) in 24 States by engaging all stakeholders.
    • There are total 06 Non-attainment cites (NACs) in Delhi NCR, out of which 03 cities – Delhi, Alwar and Noida are funded under National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) and 03 cities- Ghaziabad, Meerut and Faridabad are funded under Fifteenth Finance Commission (XV-FC).
    • City Action Plans for improvement in air quality have been rolled out for implementation in all the 06 identified cities in Delhi NCR.
    1. Regulatory Actions in Delhi-NCR:
    • Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) was formulated for Delhi-NCR to tackle the issue of sudden rise in air pollution levels. The revised GRAP was published by CAQM in December 2024 and further directions were issued for its implementation. Actions listed for different AQI levels under GRAP are invoked from time to time by a sub-committee constituted by CAQM.
    • For air pollution abatement and control in Delhi / NCR, the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas has devised a comprehensive policy for air pollution abatement in NCR in July 2022, stipulating sector-specific action points quantifying targets along with timelines and implementation plan by various agencies in NCR States. The policy framework details sector-wise interventions, quantified targets and timelines for various sectors contributing to air pollution.
    • Directions prescribing measures for control of pollution from various sources such as implementation of RECD system/ dual fuel kits in DG sets, use of cleaner fuels in industries, shift to EV/ CNG/ BS VI diesel fuel in transport sector, implementation of dust control measures at C&D sites etc., have been issued by CAQM. Further, policy to curb air pollution in NCR has also been formulated.
    1. Measures for control of emissions from Stubble Burning in Delhi-NCR:
    • Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) in 2018 launched scheme for providing subsidy for purchase of crop residue management machinery and establishment of custom hiring centres (CHCs) in NCT of Delhi and the States of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh for in-situ management of paddy straw. During the period from 2018-19 to 2024-25 (as on 28.02.2025), Rs. 3698.45 crores have been released by MoA&FW (Punjab – Rs. 1756.45 crores, Haryana – Rs. 1081.71 crores, Uttar Pradesh – Rs. 763.67 crores, NCT of Delhi – Rs. 6.05 Crores, ICAR- Rs. 83.35 crores & others Rs. 7.22 Crores). The states have distributed more than 3.00 lakhs machines to the individual farmers and to more than 40000 CHCs in these 4 States, which also include more than 4500 Balers & Rakes which are used for collection of straw in the form of bales for further ex-situ utilization. MoA&FW in 2023 revised guidelines under the scheme to support establishment of crop residue/paddy straw supply chain, by providing financial assistance on the capital cost of machinery and equipment.
    • An Inter-Ministerial Committee has been constituted under the chairmanship of Special Secretary, MoA&FW for convergence of scheme of Schemes/Initiatives supporting Ex-situ management of paddy straw.
    • CAQM has provided a Framework to the states concerned for control / elimination of crop residue burning and directed these to draw up detailed state-specific action plans based on the major contours of the framework. Directions have also been issued by CAQM to State Governments of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to strictly and effectively implement revised action plan to eliminate and control stubble burning.
    • CAQM has issued directions permitting use of PNG or biomass as industrial fuel in NCR except Delhi where only PNG is permitted as industrial fuel. CAQM has also issued directions for co-firing of 5-10% biomass with coal in thermal power plants located within 300 kms of Delhi, and, in captive power plants of industrial units located in NCR.
    • Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has framed Guidelines for grant of one-time financial support under Environment Protection Charge funds for establishment of pelletization and Torrefaction plants to promote utilisation of paddy straw. So far, 15 plants have been sanctioned with utilization capacity of 2.7 lakh tonnes of paddy straw per annum.
    • During stubble burning season of 2023 (10.11.23 onwards), 33 scientists of CPCB were deployed as flying squads for assisting CAQM in NCR and adjoining areas for intensifying monitoring and enforcement actions towards prevention of paddy stubble burning incidents in 22 districts of Punjab and 11 districts of Haryana. The flying squads coordinated with state govt/nodal officers/officers from respective districts and sent their daily report to CAQM.
    • CPCB has deployed 26 teams (in 16 districts of Punjab and 10 districts of Haryana) for the period 01st October – 30th November, 2024 to intensify monitoring and enforcement actions regarding stubble burning. These teams are coordinating with concerned authorities/ officers deployed at the district level by the State Govt. and reporting to CAQM.
    • MoA&FW had deputed 31 Central Teams, which have conducted Quality Survey work w.e.f. 1-15th September, 2024 in the States of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh and the Teams had visited 275 manufacturers and conducted quality audit of 910 agricultural machines. Further, 10 Central Teams have conducted survey on utilization of machines in States of Punjab and Haryana during 15th October – 31st October 2024. A Team comprising members from DA&FW, CAQM and ICAR and other stakeholders had visited to the State of Punjab to witness the activities of paddy straw management on 14th November, 2024.
    1. Measures for control of vehicular emissions:
    • Directions issued by CAQM to Government of NCT of Delhi and State Governments of Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh for migration of public transport services, especially buses in NCR to cleaner modes. All state govt. bus services between Delhi and any city/town in the states of Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh to be operated only through EV /CNG/BS-VI diesel w.e.f. 01.11.2023.
    • Installation of VRS system at 3256 petrol pumps in Delhi-NCR in compliance with orders of Hon’ble Supreme Court and Hon’ble NGT.
    1. Measures for control of industrial emission:
    • Installation of Online Continuous Emission Monitoring System (OCEMS) in red category air polluting industries in Delhi-NCR
    • Industrial units in Delhi have shifted to PNG/cleaner fuels and, operational units in NCR have shifted to PNG/Biomass.
    • Directions issued for conversion of brick kilns to zig-zag technology in Delhi and NCR. Brick kilns not converted to zig-zag technology are not permitted to operate in Delhi-NCR.
    • In order to control DG set emissions, CPCB also provides funds for retrofitment/ upgradation of DG sets in Govt. hospitals in Delhi-NCR and guidelines have been issued in this regard.
    • Ban on use of pet coke and furnace oil as fuel in NCR States since October 24, 2017.
    • An approved fuel list is in force in Delhi-NCR w.e.f. 01.01.2023. Industries operating on only PNG or biomass are permitted in NCR, except for specific requirement of other fuels by specific industries owing to technical, technological and process requirements. The industries not operating on approved fuels are not allowed to operate in Delhi-NCR.
    • Stringent PM emission norms for biomass based boilers have been prescribed for compliance in NCR.
    1. Construction & Demolition (C&D) Waste:
    • Directions issued to DPCC and NCR SPCBs to enforce installation of anti-smog guns and other dust control measures at C&D sites.
    • Directions issued for setting up of a “Dust Control and Management Cell” by road owning/ maintaining/ construction agencies for monitoring and effective implementation of dust control measures in the NCR.  
    • Online monitoring mechanism (through web portal) introduced for monitoring compliance of dust mitigation measures for construction sites.
    1. Close Monitoring & Ground level implementation in Delhi-NCR:
    • 40 teams have been deputed by CPCB since December 2021, to assist CAQM, for conducting incognito inspections of air polluting industries, C&D sites, DG sets in Delhi-NCR to check implementation status of pollution control measures and compliance of other provisions of the Air (P&CP) Act,1981.

    Annexure-II

    Comparative Status of AQI- Delhi from 01 January to 31 December, 2016-2024

    Category

    Year

    2016

    2017

    2018

    2019

    2020

    2021

    2022

    2023

    2024

    2016

    2017

    2018

    2019

    2020

    2021

    2022

    2023

    2024

    No. of days

    354

    365

    365

    365

    366

    365

    365

    365

    366

    Good (0–50)

    0

    2

    0

    2

    5

    1

    3

    1

    0

    110

    152

    159

    182

    227

    197

    163

    206

     209

    Satisfactory (51–100)

    24

    45

    53

    59

    95

    72

    65

    60

    66

    Moderate (101–200)

    86

    105

    106

    121

    127

    124

    95

    145

    143

    Poor (201–300)

    120

    115

    114

    103

    75

    80

    130

    77

    70

    244

    213

    206

    183

    139

    168

    202

    159

    157

    Very Poor (301–400)

    99

    89

    72

    56

    49

    64

    66

    67

    70

    Severe (>401)

    25

    9

    20

    24

    15

    24

    6

    15

    17

    *******

    (Release ID: 2114403) Visitor Counter : 68

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AND REGULATORY FRAMEWOR UNDER ARHCs SCHEME

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 5:10PM by PIB Delhi

    Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) launched Affordable Rental Housing Complexes (ARHCs) as a sub-scheme of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U) to provide dignified living to urban migrants/poor near their workplace. This scheme is implemented through two models:

    1. Model-1: Utilizing existing Government funded vacant houses constructed under Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) and Rajiv Awas Yojana (RAY) to convert into ARHCs through Public Private Partnership (PPP) or by Public Agencies,
    2. Model-2: Construction, Operation & Maintenance of ARHCs by Public/Private Entities on their own available vacant land.

    Beneficiaries of ARHCs are urban migrants/poor from Economically Weaker Section (EWS)/Low Income Group (LIG). They include labour, urban poor (street vendors, rickshaw pullers, other service providers etc.), industrial workers, and migrants working with market/trade associations, educational/health institutions, hospitality sector, long term tourists/visitors, students or any other persons of such category.

    Under Model-1, so far, 5,648 existing Government funded vacant houses have been converted into ARHCs in different States/Union Territories (UTs). Under Model-2, MoHUA has approved proposals for 82,273 new ARHC units in 7 States, of which 35,425 have been completed and remaining are under different stages of initiation/construction. These ARHCs provide dignified living with all civic amenities to the eligible beneficiaries at an affordable rate.  A total of ₹173.89 crore of Technology Innovation Grant (TIG) has been sanctioned, of which ₹83.26 crore has been released under ARHCs.

    As per scheme guidelines, the initial affordable rent of ARHCs is fixed by the local authority based on a local survey. Subsequently, rent is enhanced biennially by 8%, subject to a maximum increase of 20% in aggregate, over a period of 5 years, effective from the date of signing the contract. The same mechanism is followed over the entire concession period i.e. 25 years.

    As per the operational guidelines of ARHCs, various benefits/incentives were proposed by the Government to encourage proactive participation of Public/Private Entities in the construction and management of ARHCs. The operation guidelines are available at https://arhc.mohua.gov.in/filesUpload/Operational-Guidelines-of-ARHCs.pdf.

    So far, the Ministry has not conducted any assessment of ARHCs. However, based on the learning from the experiences of 9 years implementation of PMAY-U, MoHUA has revamped the scheme and launched PMAY-U 2.0 ‘Housing for All’ Mission with effect from 01.09.2024 for implementation in urban areas across the country to construct, purchase and rent a house by 1 crore additional eligible beneficiaries at affordable cost through four verticals i.e., Beneficiary Led Construction (BLC), Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP), Affordable Rental Housing (ARH) and Interest Subsidy Scheme (ISS). ARH vertical of PMAY-U 2.0 aims to construct rental housing projects for EWS/LIG beneficiaries including migrant workers and other poor who do not want to own a house but require housing for short term basis. The scheme guidelines of PMAY-U 2.0 are available at https://pmay-urban.gov.in/uploads/guidelines/Operational-Guidelines-of-PMAY-U-2.pdf.

    The reply was given by THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOUSING AND URBAN AFFAIRS SHRI TOKHAN SAHU in Rajya Sabha Today.

    *****

    SK

    (Release ID: 2114459) Visitor Counter : 46

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Outbreak of Fire Across South Korea

    Source: NASA

    Dozens of wildland fires broke out as dry winds swept across South Korea in March 2025. Blazes began igniting on March 21, prompting evacuations as well as the deployment of thousands of personnel and more than 100 helicopters to combat the fires, according to news reports.
    Smoke from some of the larger fires is visible in this image, acquired by the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) on NASA’s Aqua satellite on March 22. One of the plumes billowed from an area burning near Andong in Uiseong County. More than 1,000 people evacuated the area, several sections of highway and a rail line were forced to close, and an ancient temple was destroyed by the flames.
    To the south, another large smoke plume originated from rural Sancheong County. A large, fast-moving fire had burned over 500 hectares (2 square miles) by the evening of March 22, the Associated Press reported, and caused multiple injuries and deaths. Mountainous terrain and strong winds made containment efforts challenging.
    Officials issued strong wind advisories for several counties on March 21 and 22 and discouraged people from burning trash and agricultural products. Dry weather also contributed to the fire risk. March through May is the driest time of year in the region.
    As of March 24, many of the fires had been extinguished, according to officials cited in news reports, and the large blazes in Uiseong and Sancheong counties were each about two-thirds contained. In total, the fires were reported to have burned at least 8,700 hectares (34 square miles). The government declared a state of disaster for several of the affected regions.
    NASA Earth Observatory image by Michala Garrison, using MODIS data from NASA EOSDIS LANCE and GIBS/Worldview. Story by Lindsey Doermann.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Members consider China’s request for panel to examine EU battery electric vehicle duties

    Source: World Trade Organization

    DS630: European Union — Definitive Countervailing Duties on New Battery Electric Vehicles from China

    China submitted its first request for the establishment of a dispute panel with respect to the definitive countervailing duties imposed by the European Union in October 2024 on new battery electric vehicles from China. The request also concerns the underlying investigation that led to the imposition of the duties. China and the European Union held consultations in December 2024 with the aim of reaching a mutually satisfactory solution but failed to resolve the dispute, China said, prompting its request for the panel.

    China outlined the various concerns it had about the process resulting in the duties. It said this process was not carried out in a manner consistent with the WTO’s Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures and the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994.  China said that while WTO members have the legitimate right to adopt trade remedy measures, such rights must be exercised within the confines of the WTO agreements.

    The European Union said it regretted China’s decision to request a panel. The EU said it had hoped the consultations with China had provided the necessary information and clarifications China needed. China undoubtedly has the right to bring this issue to WTO dispute settlement, the EU said, but it strongly maintains that the measures in question are entirely justified and is confident they are in compliance with WTO rules. The EU said it is not ready to accept the establishment of a panel.

    The DSB took note of the statements and agreed to revert to this matter should a requesting member wish to do so.

    DS593: European Union – Certain Measures Concerning Palm Oil and Oil Palm Crop Based Biofuels

    The European Union said it intended to implement the panel ruling in DS593 by bringing the concerned measures into conformity with the WTO agreements. The EU said it was impractical for it to comply immediately and that it needed a reasonable period of time to do so.  The EU added that it was keen to discuss and agree with Indonesia the length of this period of time at the earliest available opportunity, as it has done with Malaysia in a related dispute case.

    Indonesia underlined the necessity for the EU to adjust its policies in line with the WTO agreements as well as the importance of prompt and effective implementation of the panel’s ruling. Indonesia said it is committed to working constructively with the EU to ensure a smooth and efficient implementation process. It encouraged the EU to provide a clear and detailed timeline for this process.

    DS597: United States – Origin Marking Requirement (Hong Kong, China)

    The United States once again raised the matter of the panel ruling in DS597 at the DSB meeting. The US said it was raising the matter as a result of further alarming developments and effects of the National Security Law of Hong Kong, China on free speech and human rights.  The US referred back to its previous statements regarding its position on essential security and its reasons for placing this item on the DSB agenda.

    Hong Kong, China said it was regrettable that the United States continues to abuse DSB meetings as a platform for political posturing. The US approach reflects a troubling presumption that it alone has the authority to interpret national security matters, said Hong Kong, China, adding that it remains frustrated at being deprived of the legitimate right to allow the case to be settled through a proper channel.

    China reiterated its objections to the item being placed on the DSB agenda. It said the WTO dispute settlement mechanism is a forum to resolve trade disputes rather than a place to discuss political issues.

    Appellate Body appointments

    Colombia, speaking on behalf of 130 members, introduced for the 85th time the group’s proposal to start the selection processes for filling vacancies on the Appellate Body. The extensive number of members submitting the proposal reflects a common interest in the functioning of the Appellate Body and, more generally, in the functioning of the WTO’s dispute settlement system, Colombia said.

    The United States said it does not support the proposed decision and noted its longstanding concerns with WTO dispute settlement that have persisted across US administrations. The US said the panel reports in DS593 and DS597 provided examples of its concerns regarding WTO dispute settlement overreach. The US said fundamental reform of WTO dispute settlement is needed to address these and other US concerns. Despite extensive US engagement, WTO members continue to have vastly different perspectives on the role of WTO dispute settlement in today’s world and the reforms that are needed, it added.

    More than 20 members took the floor to comment, one speaking on behalf of a group of members. Most reiterated their support for the joint proposal and for the urgent need to restore a fully functioning dispute settlement system. Several welcomed the progress made in the dispute settlement reform discussions last year and said they looked forward to starting consultations on how to take the process forward. Ten members urged others to consider joining the Multi-party interim appeal arrangement (MPIA), a contingent measure to safeguard the right to appeal in the absence of a functioning Appellate Body. 

    Colombia, on behalf of the 130 members, said it regretted that for the 85th occasion members have not been able to launch the selection processes. Ongoing conversations about reform of the dispute settlement system should not prevent the Appellate Body from continuing to operate fully, and members shall comply with their obligation under the Dispute Settlement Understanding to fill the vacancies as they arise, Colombia said for the group.

    Surveillance of implementation

    The United States presented status reports with regard to DS184, “US — Anti-Dumping Measures on Certain Hot-Rolled Steel Products from Japan”,  DS160, “United States — Section 110(5) of US Copyright Act”, DS464, “United States — Anti-Dumping and Countervailing Measures on Large Residential Washers from Korea”, and DS471, “United States — Certain Methodologies and their Application to Anti-Dumping Proceedings Involving China.”

    The European Union presented a status report with regard to DS291, “EC — Measures Affecting the Approval and Marketing of Biotech Products.”

    Indonesia presented its status reports in DS477 and DS478, “Indonesia — Importation of Horticultural Products, Animals and Animal Products.” 

    Next meeting

    The next regular DSB meeting will take place on 25 April 2025.

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    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Members continue TRIPS implementation review discussion, address IP notification obligations

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Members continue TRIPS implementation review discussion, address IP notification obligations

    Under Article 71.1 of the TRIPS Agreement, the TRIPS Council is required to conduct a review of the implementation of the Agreement after two years and at periodic intervals thereafter. However, the initial review in 1999 was never completed and no other review has subsequently been initiated.
    The Chair recalled that over the past year members had spent significant time and energy on considering how to finally launch the review. They ultimately converged on a “Proposed Process for the First Review of the Implementation of the TRIPS Agreement under Article 71.1” that was circulated as document JOB/IP/79/Rev.3 on 22 November 2024.
    However, the Chair noted, despite intensive and constructive engagement by members, who have never been closer to consensus on this particular issue, that document could not be adopted. Reporting on the group consultations she held with members on 7 March to hear ideas on how to approach work on this issue in the future, she indicated that members’ concerns that had prevented the adoption of the draft document in December remained prevalent.
    A number of delegations expressed their willingness to continue discussions on this issue. Therefore, the Chair left the door open to hold another round of consultations in the coming weeks, provided that delegations remain willing to engage constructively and find an agreed solution.
    Notifications
    The WTO Secretariat provided an update on notifications under various provisions of the TRIPS Agreement received by the Council since its last meeting in November 2024. The Secretariat also submitted the “Annual report on notifications and other information flows”.
    The report indicates that although participation in WTO notifications has increased, many members are not fulfilling their ongoing notification obligations, which impacts the Council’s monitoring function. Despite considerable legislative changes in IP over the past 15 years, 21 per cent of developed and 37 per cent of developing members have not notified the Council of any new or amended laws since 2009. Furthermore, 63 per cent of IP enforcement contact points and 75 per cent of technical and financial cooperation contact points have not been updated in over a decade.
    In 2024, members submitted 125 notifications, including 116 new or updated domestic laws or regulations pertaining to the TRIPS Agreement, as required under Article 63.2. The rate of participation remained steady, with 26 members submitting at least one notification.
    Reports on technology transfer to LDCs and on technical and financial cooperation were similar to those in 2023, with 16 developed members submitting reports. However, no notifications were received in 2024 for the special compulsory licensing system or updates on biotechnology or geographical indications.
    The report also notes that the e-TRIPS information system, designed to improve transparency and provide simple online submission processes, has seen steady usage since its 2019 launch. By 2024, 93 per cent of members were using the platform and 96 per cent of total submissions were made through the platform.
    Delegations notifying new or revised legislation took the floor to inform the Council of the main elements presented in their documents. This practice has become an established tradition, with many delegations following it at recent sessions of the Council. It has proven to be very useful in improving understanding of the notifications, raising awareness and promoting transparency.
    Technology transfer
    The TRIPS Council meeting was attended by the participants of the annual WTO workshop on incentives for technology transfer to least-developed countries (LDCs) under the TRIPS Agreement. This was opened by Deputy Director-General Johanna Hill on 17 March. The workshop brought together 30 participants from LDCs, experts from eight developed members, specialists from the public and private sectors and intergovernmental organizations.
    Technology transfer is deeply embedded in the TRIPS Agreement and is explicitly mentioned in its objectives in Article 7. Since 2003, when WTO members agreed on the transparency mechanism for technology transfer under Article 66.2, developed country members have submitted over 400 reports detailing their actions and commitments. To date, the TRIPS Council has conducted 21 reviews of these reports, generating valuable insights into effective strategies and best practices.
    A follow-up to the annual review of reports from nine developed members on their technology transfer commitments and related programmes took place at the TRIPS Council. See here.
    Several LDC members thanked the Secretariat for organizing the workshop and developed countries for their detailed reports. They underscored the importance of informal dialogue between LDC members and developed country members. This is particularly important when it comes to tailoring technology transfer programmes to LDCs’ priority needs and learning from developed members’ experience, they added.
    On a separate ad hoc agenda item, members addressed a communication on “IP and innovation: Technology transfer case studies” introduced by Australia, Canada, the European Union, Israel, Japan, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand, Singapore, Switzerland, Chinese Taipei, the United Kingdom and the United States. The objective was to facilitate discussions at the TRIPS Council, using concrete case studies that show real-world technology transfer in action across industries such as agriculture, sustainability and manufacturing.
    Many projects were showcased to underline how technology transfer can support innovation and economic growth. These included a Japanese-Tanzanian partnership producing insecticide-treated nets and technical know-how provided to Sri Lankan companies in the manufacturing and textile industries. The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) presented WIPO GREEN, an online platform connecting providers and seekers of eco-friendly technologies to combat climate change.
    Non-violation and situation complaints (NVSCs)
    The Chair reported on the consultations she held in early March with the most active members and Group coordinators on this issue, where delegations largely repeated their known positions. One member suggested that the Secretariat organize a briefing session on this issue to provide an overview of the points and arguments raised in the past, she said.
    She underlined that none of the various suggestions made by her predecessors in meetings and informal consultations as to how members could resume a substantive debate have been taken up by members, indicating that there is little desire to restart substantive discussions on this issue. Taking into account that the 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) will take place in March 2026, she reminded members that the examination of the scope and modalities of these complaints is a ministerial mandate for this Council, which members should make a serious effort to fulfill.
    At the 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13), ministers adopted the Decision on TRIPS Non-Violation and Situation Complaints, tasking the TRIPS Council to continue its review of the scope and modalities for NVSCs and to make recommendations to MC14. It was also agreed that, in the meantime, members would not bring such complaints under the TRIPS Agreement.
    Non-violation and situation complaints (NVSCs) refer to whether and under what conditions members should be able to bring WTO dispute complaints where they consider that another member’s action, or a particular situation, has deprived them of an expected advantage under the TRIPS Agreement, even though no obligation under the Agreement has been violated.
    Members have historically differed on whether such non-violation cases are feasible in intellectual property. Some delegations consider NVSCs essential to maintaining the proper balance of rights and obligations within the TRIPS Agreement while helping to ensure that legitimate obligations are not circumvented or avoided. Others believe there is no place for the application of non-violation complaints in the area of intellectual property because of the legal insecurity and curtailment of flexibilities that could ensue and favour their complete ban in the TRIPS area.
    Pandemic response
    The Chair highlighted the WTO’s compilation document COVID-19: Measures Regarding Trade-Related Intellectual Property Rights, available on its website. This document, compiled by the Secretariat using official sources and verified by relevant members, provides a non-exhaustive overview of IP-related measures taken in response to the pandemic. She urged delegations to update the Secretariat with any new measures, modifications or expirations.
    Discussions continued on proposals under paragraph 24 of the Ministerial Declaration on the WTO Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic and Preparedness for Future Pandemics, reaffirmed in the Abu Dhabi Ministerial Declaration of March 2024. This provision mandates the Council to assess challenges and lessons from the pandemic, including through members’ proposals.
    Members also continued to review two submissions: one by the United Kingdom on Intellectual Property, Voluntary Licensing, and Technology Transfer, and another by Bangladesh, Colombia, Egypt and India on TRIPS for Development and Post-MC13 Work on TRIPS-Related Issues. The debate centered on pandemic preparedness and the WTO’s role in addressing IP concerns.
    Some delegations stressed the need for balancing IP rights with public health to secure access to medicines in future crises. Others highlighted the need for updated IP policies and voluntary licensing as key for effective technology transfer, calling for evidence-based discussions under this agenda item.
    Other issues
    Members discussed a second ad hoc agenda item under the heading of “IP and the public interest”, included at the request of Bangladesh, Brazil, Colombia, India and Pakistan. These delegations submitted a paper on this topic, entitled “Intellectual Property for Development Group – Side Activity: 30 Years of Developing Countries’ Expectations and Concerns about TRIPS”.
    Participating members presented a summary of a side event organized on 19 March by the informal group of countries known as “Intellectual Property (IP) for Development”. At this event, delegates and experts were invited to an initial discussion to reflect on the history of the TRIPS negotiations, 30 years after their conclusion. Proponents noted that a discussion on the evolution and impact of TRIPS will help to improve the available information, providing valuable insights and reflections for assessing the expectations of developing economies.
    The Chair said that there have been no new acceptances of the protocol amending the TRIPS Agreement since the last Council meeting. This means that, to date, the amended TRIPS Agreement applies to 141 members. Twenty-five members have yet to accept the Protocol.

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  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Security Council Examines Ways to Strengthen United Nations Peacekeeping against New Threats

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Delegates Debate ‘Christmas-Tree’ Add-on Mandates versus Focusing on Core Tasks

    The Security Council today debated ways to adapt United Nations peacekeeping to evolving threats with Member States emphasizing the need to partner with regional organizations and actively involve local communities, particularly women.  They also stressed the importance of aligning mandates with available resources, leveraging intelligence-led strategies and digital tools for data-driven decision-making, and avoiding overly broad “Christmas-tree mandates” that prolong operations and escalate costs.

    “Terror and extremist groups, organized crime, the weaponization of new technologies and the effects of climate change are all testing our capacities to respond,” United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said during the Council’s day-long open debate focusing on the ability of United Nations peace operations to adjust to new realities on the ground.  These challenges along with more complex and deadly wars, he cautioned, “throw fuel on the fires of conflict”.

    He also highlighted a “persistent mismatch between mandates and available resources”, as well as growing divisions within Council itself.  To address this, he called for a tailored and collective approach to peace operations. Announcing a forthcoming United Nations peace operation review — mandated by Member States in the Pact for the Future, he said that this process will incorporate insights from the New Agenda for Peace and from the first comprehensive study of special political missions in the 80-year history of the United Nations.

    Peace operations, he emphasized, must engage early with host nations and local partners, guided by clear, achievable mandates and viable exit strategies.  “Today’s open debate provides a vital opportunity for the Council to share perspectives and ideas to inform the review process,” Mr. Guterres concluded.

    Cultural Shifts Required

    “The fact that peace operations are effective is one of the most verified findings in international relations literature,” said Jenna Russo, Director of Research at the International Peace Institute and Head of the Brian Urquhart Center for Peace Operations.  “Yet, there is often a dissonance between these findings and the lived experiences of those in conflict settings,” she added.

    Offering four recommendations, she first called for a stronger planning culture within the Secretariat.  Bureaucratic and political barriers have kept this culture of planning from taking root, she said, adding that the Organization should build the capacity to discern emerging trends, anticipate potential shifts and respond proactively.

    Secondly, she said, the Organization must embrace a “risk-tolerant culture around peace operations”, noting that “personnel are structurally disincentivized from trying new things and reporting what doesn’t work for fear that their budgets and jobs may suffer the consequences”.  She highlighted the need for a culture that creates space for trying and even failing, with the aim of learning and improving — “this culture must come from the top”.

    “The Secretariat should tell the Council what it needs to hear, not what it wants to hear,” she underscored as her third recommendation, citing the 2000 Report of the Panel on United Nations Peace Operations.  Instead of the Secretariat pre-emptively lowering the bar on what is politically possible, she said, it should present a wide range of options and leave it to the Council to adjust the bar.

    Modular Approach — Building Blocks

    Her final recommendation was that the Council should consider the advantages and the risks of a modular approach to peace operations.  Mandated sets of activities like electoral support, human rights monitoring or security sector reform can be “treated like building blocks that can be scaled up or down over the lifespan of a mission”, she said.  This approach can promote more tailored responses and align mandates with available resources, but it comes with the risk that broader peacebuilding aspects “could fall by the wayside if the Council or host States view them as optional”, she added.

    In the ensuing open debate, speakers stressed the need to evolve with the times, underscored the importance of regional partnerships and called for a more people-centered approach that involves local communities, and specifically women, in peace efforts.

    Closer Cooperation with Regional Organizations

    “For millions, the blue flag and the blue helmets are symbols of hope,” said Lars Løkke Rasmussen, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Denmark and Council President for March, as he spoke in his national capacity.  However, just as conflicts and needs have evolved, so must the UN’s tools, he stressed, urging closer collaboration with regional and subregional organizations — “especially the African Union” — and the inclusion of women in peace processes.

    Zane Dangor, Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa, said that deployments by regional and subregional organizations, such as the African Union and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), if authorized and supported by the UN, could off-set the limitations of the Organization’s peacekeeping operations.  Calling for the accelerated implementation of Council resolution 2719 (2023), he said the Council can also gain insights from the experiences of African peace operations that are often conducted in difficult conditions and with limited resources.

    Jiří Kozák, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, emphasized that strong coordination with regional partners, such as the African Union and European Union, must be systematic, practical and based on the sharing of resources, information and best practices.  “Improved coordination will ensure stronger political and operational support,” he added.

    Similarly, Guyana’s representative highlighted the need for deeper collaboration with regional organizations and reiterated the calls of previous speakers who stressed that women must be present at all levels — from peacekeeping forces to peace negotiations.

    “Peace should be built from the ground up,” said Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez, Panama’s Minister for Foreign Affairs.  Conflict-resolution mechanisms “are more likely to last when women are leaders and involved in the peacebuilding process”, he added.  Insun Kang, Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, called for a people-centered approach that respects host country priorities and national ownership.  “This approach views local populations as not just beneficiaries of peacekeeping efforts, but active participants,” she said, noting her country’s rice cultivation and vocational training initiatives in South Sudan.

    Noting that the Council has not mandated a new peacekeeping operation in 10 years, Syed Tariq Fatemi, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, warned that the UN’s absence is being filled by “negative actors and soldiers of fortune”.  UN peacekeeping is cost effective, representing only 3 per cent of global military spending.  The Council must ensure it is properly funded and resourced.

    Accountability for Performance

    As the global leader of peacekeeping capacity-building, the United States aims to ensure that its programmes have measurable effects on the ground, said that country’s representative. “Robust accountability measures will enhance the effectiveness and efficiencies of UN peacekeeping missions,” she said, adding that accountability must incentivize positive performance and expedient consequences for performance failures.

    On that, Somalia’s delegate, pointing to Africa’s experience with peacekeeping operations, stressed that “success depends on two interlinked principles — clear strategic planning and operational adaptability”.

    Caution against ‘Christmas-Tree Mandates’

    Several speakers expressed concern about the overbroad mandates of UN peacekeeping missions, noting that these mandates often lead to prolonged missions in host countries, costing billions of dollars.  “The result is missions that are present in countries for decades and cost billions of dollars,” said the representative of the Russian Federation. Rather, she stressed that “the goal we need to be aiming for” is that, after a mandate is implemented, host States assume full responsibility for conflict prevention.

    “We must end the strange phenomenon where every mandate renewal leads to expansion,” said China’s representative, also rejecting the “unchecked growth of Christmas-tree mandates”.  He further underscored that the principles of consent, impartiality and non-use of force except in self-defence “should always be upheld as fundamental guidelines”.

    Similarly, Algeria’s delegate said: “We are witnessing, in some cases, what can be described as ‘Christmas-tree’ mandates, under which UN missions are tasked with an overwhelming number of responsibilities, thus hindering their ability to undertake focused and targeted engagements”.

    Slovenia’s delegate was among the speakers who stressed the need to enhance early warning and rapid response capabilities to address conflicts before they escalate.  “Missions must be proactive rather than reactive,” she said.  Greece’s delegate, echoing many other delegations, condemned attacks on peacekeepers and emphasized the need to ensure their absolute safety.

    Clear, Realistic Mandates, Use of Digital Tools 

    France’s delegate said that “peacekeeping is the heart” of the UN.  Peacekeeping missions “need to be part of a strategy, but in order for them to be successful, the mandate has to be based on clear, realistic and political objectives”, he added.  The representative of the United Kingdom said the UN needs to harness innovation, using data-driven decision-making, intelligence-led approaches and digital tools.  Peacekeepers must be trained on emerging threats, including cyberwarfare, disinformation campaigns and climate-related security risks.

    On the Secretary-General’s efforts to make the united Nations fit for purpose, Beate Meinl-Reisinger, Federal Minister for European and International Affairs of Austria, stated:  “Reform, yes; replace, no.”  Underlining the need for a “flexible toolbox of peace operations”, she stressed the importance of political solutions to the success of such operations.  “They can only keep peace where there is a peace to keep,” she observed.

    Over the past eight decades, the UN has deployed more than 120 peace operations in over 50 countries, and to a very large extent, these missions have helped prevent, manage and resolve conflicts, said the representative of Sierra Leone.  When his country was in the throes of a brutal civil war more than 20 years ago, the United Nations Mission in Sierra Leone (UNAMSIL) assisted in disarming more than 75,000 ex-combatants, restored State authority and oversaw the first post-conflict democratic elections.  “The Mission, at the time, was seen as a prototype for the UN’s new emphasis on peacebuilding and showed how a well-resourced and adaptable UN operation can support a country to rebuild, reconcile and reclaim its future,” he said.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Free-trade agreements: impact on the EU’s trade balance – E-000240/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU-Mexico Economic Partnership, Political Coordination and Cooperation Agreement[1] (also referred to as the ‘Global Agreement’) entered into force in 2000.

    Since its entry into force, bilateral trade between the EU and Mexico more than quadrupled and the EU trade balance with Mexico has been constantly positive reaching EUR 24.6 billion in 2023 (latest available statistics[2]) and increasing by 16% compared to 2022.

    The EU’s key imports from Mexico are industrial and mineral products. These include critical raw materials such as fluorspar, a substance used in the steel, iron and aluminium supply chain, as well as in the refrigeration sector.

    Mexico is a major supplier of fluorspar to the EU (33%[3]) and it has also several other raw materials endowments (antimony, copper, zinc, lead). Securing access and reduced costs for these materials is essential for the EU’s green and digital transitions.

    Most of trade with Malaysia is in the industrial area and Malaysia is an increasingly important player notably for semiconductors. For some Member States, Malaysia is the second biggest source of semi-conductor technology after Taiwan.

    Malaysia also has several natural resources and commodities of interest for the EU. It is also a major hub for processing rare earths. Creating new business opportunities and strengthening supply chains in these sectors will help to boost the EU’s competitiveness and economic security, thereby supporting the digital and green transitions.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/resource.html?uri=cellar:f95ad1a3-795e-4fb0-84e1-28351b99415c.0004.02/DOC_2&format=PDF
    • [2] https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/isdb_results/factsheets/country/overview_mexico_en.pdf
    • [3] https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/publications/study-critical-raw-materials-eu-2023-final-report_en
    Last updated: 24 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Latest IAEA Reports Confirm Japan’s ALPS Treated Water Release Continues to Meet International Safety Standards

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    The discharge of treated water from Japan’s Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station (FDNPS) is proceeding in line with international safety standards, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Task Force confirmed today in its third report since the water discharge began in August 2023.

    During its mission to Japan from December 9 to 12, 2024, the Task Force assessed the technical and regulatory aspects of the ALPS-treated water discharge. This included an on-site visit to the FDNPS facility to directly observe the equipment and infrastructure installed by Japan’s Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), the operator of the FDNPS for the water discharge. The report also summarised the Task Force’s discussions with the Nuclear Regulation Authority (NRA), Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI).

    The Task Force report reaffirmed the findings of the IAEA’s comprehensive safety review, stating that its overall conclusions remain consistent with those from its first and second missions conducted after the discharge began. It emphasized that Japan’s NRA has maintained a comprehensive inspection plan, including onsite monitoring to ensure the safety of the water that is discharged. Additionally, the Task Force confirmed that the equipment and facilities are operating in accordance with relevant international safety standards.

    In the IAEA Comprehensive Report on the Safety Review of the ALPS-Treated Water at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station that was released in July 2023 prior to the discharge, the IAEA found Japan’s approach to discharging the treated water to be consistent with international safety standards. It also said that the discharges as planned would have a negligible radiological impact to people and the environment. The IAEA Task Force has carried out eight missions as part of the safety review since the beginning of the IAEA’s multiyear review that began two years before the water discharge.

    Today’s report also reviewed the IAEA’s ongoing independent verification of Japan’s monitoring programs, as well as onsite sampling and analysis conducted by IAEA experts at FDNPS since July 2023, when Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi established an IAEA office at the site. The IAEA’s onsite laboratory has analyzed the first eleven water discharges, confirming that the tritium concentration in each batch of diluted ALPS-treated water remains well below Japan’s operational limit consistent with international safety standards.

    The Task Force noted the importance of the IAEA’s ongoing corroboration activities and the IAEA onsite independent sampling and analyses in providing a comprehensive, transparent and independent verification of the accuracy and reliability of the data reported by TEPCO and the Government of Japan.

    Interlaboratory Comparisons

    The IAEA has also released reports today on two interlaboratory comparisons (ILCs) for determining radionuclides in ALPS-treated water and in marine environmental samples collected from near to FDNPS, part of the Agency’s comprehensive monitoring and assessment efforts.

    ILCs involve multiple laboratories independently analyzing samples, then reporting their results to the IAEA for evaluation to assess their reliability and accuracy.

    One report presents the findings from an ILC based on samples collected during a mission in October 2023 when the IAEA, with experts from third-party laboratories, observed Japan’s collection and pretreatment of samples of seawater, sediment, fish and seaweed from coastal and offshore locations and a fish market close to FDNPS. Laboratories in Canada, China and the Republic of Korea, as well as the IAEA’s laboratories in Austria and Monaco, analysed the samples and reported the results to the IAEA for intercomparison.

    The IAEA report confirms that Japan’s methods for sampling follow the appropriate methodological standards and that Japanese laboratories have reported accurate results that demonstrate a high degree of proficiency. The IAEA notes that these findings provide confidence in Japan’s capability for conducting reliable and high-quality monitoring related to the discharge of ALPS treated water.

    The second ILC report, also released today, corroborates Japan’s source monitoring of ALPS treated water from the eighth batch prior to discharge  in August last year. Water sampled from the tanks was analysed in laboratories in China, the Republic of Korea, Switzerland and the United States, as well as in the IAEA laboratories. Following assessment of the results submitted, the IAEA said the findings provide confidence in TEPCO’s capability for conducting reliable and high-quality source monitoring.

    Corroboration of Internal Exposure Monitoring

    Additionally, the Agency released a report today confirming that TEPCO is accurately monitoring the internal radiation exposure of workers handling ALPS-treated water.

    The report presents the findings from ILCs organized by the IAEA last year, which corroborated results from IAEA, French and Japanese laboratories. The findings highlight that TEPCO has demonstrated both a high level of accuracy in their measurements and strong technical competence. A report focusing on external radiation exposure monitoring was published in November 2024.

    All reports, as well as additional information such as frequently asked questions and a timeline of activities, can be found on the IAEA’s Fukushima Daiichi ALPS Treated Water Discharge webpage.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Marex Group plc Provides Details for Upcoming Investor Day on April 2, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, March 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Marex Group plc (‘Marex’), the diversified global financial services platform, provides details for its upcoming Investor Day being held at the Nasdaq MarketSite in New York on April 2, 2025.

    The event will feature presentations from Marex’s business heads, providing a comprehensive review of Marex’s operations and growth initiatives, reiterating the strategy stated at IPO, as well as a question and answer session with senior leadership including Ian Lowitt, CEO, Rob Irvin, CFO and Paolo Tonucci, Chief Strategist and CEO Capital Markets.

    What:                   Marex Group plc Investor Day 2025

    When:                  Wednesday, April 2, 2025

                                  9:30am – 2:00pm EST

    Where:                 Nasdaq Marketsite, New York, New York

    Due to limited capacity, the event will be invitation only, but a live stream of the event will be available via webcast. Interested parties can access the webcast through the ‘News & Events’ section of the Marex investor website at ir.marex.com.

    About Marex Group:

    Marex Group plc (NASDAQ: MRX) is a diversified global financial services platform providing essential liquidity, market access and infrastructure services to clients across energy, commodities and financial markets. The Group provides comprehensive breadth and depth of coverage across four core services: Clearing, Agency and Execution, Market Making and Hedging and Investment Solutions. It has a leading franchise in many major metals, energy and agricultural products, with access to 60 exchanges. The Group provides access to the world’s major commodity markets, covering a broad range of clients that include some of the largest commodity producers, consumers and traders, banks, hedge funds and asset managers. Headquartered in London with more than 40 offices worldwide, the Group has over 2,300 employees across Europe, Asia and the Americas. For more information visit www.marex.com.

    Enquiries please contact:

    Marex

    Nicola Ratchford / Robert Coates

    +44 (0) 7786548889 / +44 7880 486329 | nratchford@marex.com / rcoates@marex.com

    FTI Consulting US / UK

    +1 (919) 609-9423 / +44 (0) 7776 111 222 | marex@fticonsulting.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAM! Mumbai 2025 Concludes with Overwhelming Participation

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 5:20PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 24th March 2025

    The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting in collaboration with the Media & Entertainment Association of India (MEAI), hosted WAM! (WAVES Anime & Manga Contest) at Whistling Woods International in Mumbai on 23rd March 2025.  WAM! is one of the WAVES (World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit  – Create in India Challenges. Around 300 participants competed across three key categories, Manga, Webtoon, and Anime, at the latest edition in Mumbai. The event also featured a Voice Acting showdown with 34 participants and an electrifying Cosplay contest with 45 participants.

    Winners of WAM! Mumbai 2025

    • Voice Acting Competition

    Winner: Chinchakar Ganesh Sanyog

    Runners-up: Aditi Joshi & Payal Vishal

    • Cosplay Contest

    Winner: Kaizad Sheshbaradaran as Okarun

    First Runner-up: Yash Mokal as Monkey D. Luffy

    Second Runner-up: Esha Joshi as Robin

    • Manga Category

    Student Winner: Jay Kumar Nagori

    Professional Winner: Hriday Biswas

    • Webtoon Category

    Professional Winner: Eesha Chavan

    • Anime Category

    Student Winner: Chinmay Narote

    Professional Winner: Reubun Saldhana

    Winners in the Manga, Webtoon, and Anime categories received prizes including pen tablets, art supplies, official merchandise, and cash prizes. Additionally, Anime category winners will receive English, Hindi, and Japanese dubs for their pilot episode. Toonsutra has confirmed the distribution of the Webtoon winners’ work on their platform.

    In a special segment, attendees got an exclusive first look at TRIO, India’s first anime currently in development. The event also featured notable industry leaders, including: Sushil Bhasin – President, Media & Entertainment Association of India;  Abhishek Dutta – Associate Vice President – Acquisition & Programming (Kids Cluster), Star India Pvt Ltd; Sumeet Pathak – Actor, Chief Operating Officer & Managing Director, Gulmohar Media; Ankur Javeri – Actor, Voice Artist, and Founder & Past President of the Association of Voice Artists; Jazyl Homavazir – 2D Animation Professional and Creator of India’s first Manga – Beast Legion; Dakshata Pawar – COSPLAY Artist and Founder of MAGE.

    The previous editions of WAM were conducted in Guwahati, Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, Varanasi, and Delhi.

    For More Details: Ankur Bhasin; Secretary, Media & Entertainment Association of India
    +91 98806 23122 ; secretary@meai.in

    About WAVES

    The Government of India is set to host the first-ever World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), a landmark event for the Media & Entertainment (M&E) sector, from May 1st to 4th, 2025, in Mumbai. Whether you’re an industry professional, investor, creator, or innovator, WAVES – as a global platform – offers the ultimate platform to connect, collaborate, innovate and contribute to the global M&E landscape.

    With a vision to position India as a global creative powerhouse, WAVES aims to set new benchmarks in creativity, innovation, and influence on the world stage. The summit will magnify India’s creative strength, amplifying its position as a hub for content creation, intellectual property, and technological innovation. Industries and sectors in focus include Broadcasting, Print Media, Television, Radio, Films, Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, Sound And Music, Advertising, Digital Media, Social Media Platforms, Generative AI, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and extended reality (XR).

    Have questions? Find answers here  

    Come, Sail with us! Register for WAVES now (Coming soon!)

    PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Dhanlakshmi/ Preeti Malandkar | 076

    Follow us on social media: @PIBMumbai     /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai   pibmumbai[at]gmail[dot]com   /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai

    (Release ID: 2114470) Visitor Counter : 53

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –