Category: Asia

MIL-OSI Global: Like dictators before him, Trump threatens international peace and security
Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Sabine Nolke, Research Associate in International Law, Western Academy for Advanced Research, Western University

At first, Canadians just shook their collective heads when United States President Donald Trump suggested Canada become the 51st American state.

They rolled their eyes when he posted a fake image of himself standing next to a Canadian flag amid snowy mountaintops — in actuality, the Swiss Alps.

Another Trump post showed a map purporting to merge Canada and the U.S. That prompted Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to respond on social media that there was not a “snowball’s chance in hell” that Canadians would soon become Americans.

Meme wars are one thing, but in the real world, threatening the sovereignty and territorial integrity of a foreign state is quite another. Canadian leaders have stopped laughing, and they now need to situate Trump’s dangerous rhetoric in the language of international law and state-to-state relations.

As a former Canadian ambassador to the Netherlands, and a permanent representative to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons and international courts and tribunals in The Hague, I know language matters.

Trump’s threats make it an opportune time to provide a brief snapshot of the historical context for Trump’s rhetoric, and the necessary 21st-century vocabulary with which to respond and shape the public discourse.

Manifest Destiny

In threatening hefty tariffs on Canada, Trump cited the flow of fentanyl over the Canada-U.S. border, but it was clear it had little to do with fentanyl, particularly since so little crosses the border into the U.S. Instead, it seems he is coming for Canada’s sovereignty as an independent state.

When asked on Feb. 3 how Canada could ward off tariffs, Trump reiterated: “What I’d like to see is Canada become our 51st state.”

Later that same day, Trump paused tariffs on Canada, ostensibly thanks to border measures that Canada, like Mexico, had already announced. But what is still being said by the president of one of the most powerful nations on Earth cannot be unsaid.

At a Jan. 7 news conference, Trump called the border between Canada and the U.S. an “artificially drawn line” — echoing rhetoric deployed by Vladimir Putin as justification for Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. His remarks, in fact, were gleefully retweeted by Russia’s propaganda channel RT.

Putin claims the Ukrainian border is the result of “administrative” action under the former Soviet Union, while Trump appears to be invoking the 19th century American concept of “Manifest Destiny.”

He used the phrase verbatim in his inaugural address in the context of planting a flag on Mars, but it is entirely consistent with his plans for, and rhetoric on, Canada.

As John O’Sullivan, the American diplomat who coined the phrase, wrote in a 1845 article entitled Annexation, it’s America’s destiny to “overspread the continent.” Trump appears to be taking that idea to heart.

‘The free white race’

Arguably the biggest fan of territorial expansion in the 20th century was Adolf Hitler, architect of the Third Reich. Trump reportedly has some of Hitler’s writings on his bedside table. Hitler had this to say in Chapter 4 of Mein Kampf:

“The extent of the national territory is a determining factor in the external security of the nation. The larger the territory which a people has at its disposal, the stronger are the national defences of that people.”

Sound familiar?

But why Canada and not Mexico, you may ask? Likely because he considers Canada less racialized, even though modern-day Canada has a large multicultural population.

Read more:
Trump has put down his racist dog whistle and picked up a bull horn

In 1848, however, in the midst of the American expansionist era, pro-slavery South Carolina Sen. John Calhoun said:

“We have never dreamt of incorporating into our Union any but the Caucasian race — the free white race. To incorporate Mexico, would be the very first instance of the kind, of incorporating an Indian race; for more than half of the Mexicans are Indians, and the other is composed chiefly of mixed tribes. I protest against such a union as that! Ours, sir, is the Government of a white race.”

In short, neither the context nor the history informing Trump’s designs on Canada are reassuring for Canadians.

Rules still matter

Trump’s dismissive approach to established borders ignores fundamental norms and principles on the sovereignty, equality and territorial integrity of states, codified following the Second World War in the Charter of the United Nations. Canada is a founding member of the UN; its status as a sovereign state is not subject to challenge under international law.

The charter clearly states that “all Members shall refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, or in any other manner inconsistent with the purposes of the United Nations.”

Similarly, the North Atlantic Treaty obliges NATO member states to “refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force in any manner inconsistent with the purposes of the United Nations.”

Read more:
Allies or enemies? Trump’s threats against Canada and Greenland put NATO in a tough spot

Trump has said he will use “economic force” to annex Canada. The suggestion that an economically devastated Canada could be sufficiently brought to heel has been embraced by the so-called MAGA-sphere, including an influential blogger with ties to Russia.

International law

Threatening economic rather than military force does not make Trump’s efforts at subjugating Canada any more acceptable in terms of international law.

In 1970, in the UN’s Declaration on Principles of International Law Concerning Friendly Relations and Co-Operations Among States, the UN General Assembly unanimously confirmed that “no state may use … economic, political or any other type of measures to coerce another state in order to obtain from it the subordination of its exercise of its sovereign rights.” While not legally binding, this declaration represents customary international law.

In 1986, the International Court of Justice ruled in Nicaragua v, United States that:

“A prohibited intervention must accordingly be one bearing on matters in which each State is permitted, by the principle of State sovereignty, to decide freely. One of these is the choice of a political, economic, social and cultural system, and the formulation of foreign policy. Intervention is wrongful when it uses methods of coercion in regard to such choices, which must remain free ones.”

Keeping score

It’s both right and righteous for our elected leaders to say that Canada will never be the 51st state.

But the time has come, especially in the context of Trump’s threats to buy Greenland, seize the Panama Canal and turn Gaza into a Middle Eastern Riviera, to call out his threats to Canada.

Amid Trump’s dizzying litany of outlandish pronouncements, Canada’s leaders must keep track of what Trump’s declarations represent:
- A threat to international peace and security;
- A threat to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Canada;
- Unlawful coercion and intervention in the affairs of a sovereign state;
- A breach of the UN Charter;
- A breach of the North Atlantic treaty.
Trump’s threats are no way to treat an ally, but unfortunately for him, international law is on Canada’s side.

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

– ref. Like dictators before him, Trump threatens international peace and security – https://theconversation.com/like-dictators-before-him-trump-threatens-international-peace-and-security-248735
MIL OSI – Global Reports –
February 14, 2025

MIL-OSI: Prestige Wealth Inc. Announces First Half of Fiscal Year 2024 Financial Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

HONG KONG, Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Prestige Wealth Inc. (Nasdaq: PWM) (the “Company” or “Prestige Wealth”), a wealth management and asset management services provider based in Hong Kong, today announced its unaudited financial results for the six months ended March 31, 2024.

Mr. Kazuho Komoda, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, commented, “Reflecting upon the first half of fiscal year 2024, we made many strategic layouts including exploring the path of using technology method to scale up wealth management business, preparing for expanding business areas and actively seeking talents for business upgrade. Meanwhile, we also maintain stable growth in our existing business and garnered an increase of our total revenues from compared to the same period of fiscal year 2023.”

Mr. Komoda continued, “Benefited from our efforts and status of listed company, we have access to better business resources, advanced technology, and financing capabilities to hedge against negative macroeconomic impacts. In fact, we have also made many significant strategic initiatives in fiscal year 2024, including acquisitions and post IPO financing. This presents us with immense opportunities, and we want to assure our clients and shareholders that we are in prime position to harness these prospects. We will continue to strive to create value for all shareholders.”

First Half of Fiscal Year 2024 Financial Results

	For the Six Months Ended March 31,
	2024		2023		Change		Change
	USD		USD		USD		%
	(Unaudited)		(Unaudited)
Selected Unaudited Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income Data:
Net revenues	497,629		312,964		184,665		59.01
Operation cost and expenses	(1,105,629	)	(311,871	)	793,758		254.51
(Loss) Income from operations	(608,000	)	1,093		(609,093	)	(55,726.72	)
Other income	118,580		3,335		115,245		(3,455.59	)
(Loss) Income before income taxes	(489,420	)	4,428		(493,848	)	(11,152.85	)
Income taxes (expenses) benefits	(14,009	)	21,132		(35,141	)	(166.29	)
Net (loss) income	(503,429	)	25,560		(528,989	)	(2,069.60	)
(Loss) Earnings per ordinary share – basic and diluted	(0.055	)	0.003		(0.058	)	(1,933.33	)

Net Revenues

Net revenues were $497,629 in the six months ended March 31, 2024, compared to $312,964 in the six months ended March 31, 2023. The increase was primarily due to increase in net revenue from asset management services, partially offset by the decrease in net revenue from wealth management services.

Net revenue from wealth management services was $11,685 in the six months ended March 31, 2024, compared to $74,875 in the six months ended March 31, 2023. The decrease was primarily due to the decrease number of cases of referrals.
Net revenue from asset management services was $485,944 in the six months ended March 31, 2024, increased from $238,089 in the six months ended March 31, 2023. The increase was primarily due to the Company provided asset management related advisory services to new client.

Operating Costs and Expenses

Operating costs and expenses are primarily comprised of selling, general and administrative expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses were $1,105,629 in the six months ended March 31, 2024, compared to $311,871 in the six months ended March 31, 2023. The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses was mainly due to the increases in wages & salaries from senior management, depreciation of right-of-use assets and audit fee.

(Loss) Income from operations

Loss from operations was $608,000 in the six months ended March 31, 2024, compared to an income from operations of $1,093 in the six months ended March 31, 2023.

Income Tax (Expenses) Benefits

Income tax expenses were $14,009 in the six months ended March 31, 2024, compared to an income tax benefit of $21,132 in the six months ended March 31, 2023, primarily because the Company had net taxable profits from one of its subsidiaries.

Net (Loss) Income

Net loss was $503,429 in the six months ended March 31, 2024, compared to a net income of $25,560 in the six months ended March 31, 2023.

Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share

Basic and diluted loss per share was $0.055 in the six months ended March 31, 2024, compared to basic and diluted earnings per share $0.003 in the six months ended March 31, 2023.

Balance Sheet

As of March 31, 2024, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of $294,548, compared to $431,307 as of September 30, 2023.

Cash Flow

Net cash used in operating activities was $2,995,580 in the six months ended March 31, 2024, compared to net cash provided by operating activities of $454,660 in the six months ended March 31, 2023, mainly due to increase in prepayment.

Net cash used in investing activities was $2,862,641 in the six months ended March 31, 2024, compared to net cash provided by investing activities of $1,414,297 in the six months ended March 31, 2023, due to decease in loan and interest repayment from a related party.

Net cash used in financing activities was $nil in the six months ended March 31, 2024, compared to net cash used by investing activities of $545,499 in the six months ended March 31, 2023, due to decease in deferred offering cost.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

On November 27, 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures. ASU 2023-07 is designed to improve the reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses that are regularly provided to the CODM. All public entities will be required to report segment information in accordance with the new guidance starting in annual periods beginning after December 15, 2023, with early adoption permitted. The Group is currently evaluating the impact of adopting the standard and does not expect that the adoption of this guidance will have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures. ASU 2023-09 expands existing income tax disclosures for rate reconciliations by requiring disclosure of certain specific categories and additional reconciling items that meet quantitative thresholds and expands disclosures for income taxes paid by requiring disaggregation by certain jurisdictions. ASU 2023-09 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is permitted. The Group is currently evaluating the impact of adopting the standard and does not expect that the adoption of this guidance will have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Recent Developments

On November 4, 2024, the Company completed its acquisition of all shares of SPW Global Inc., a company incorporated under the laws of the British Virgin Islands, which in turn wholly owns Wealth AI PTE LTD. or Wealth AI, a company incorporated under the laws of Republic of Singapore. Wealth AI is a company based in Singapore that offers personalized, cost-effective wealth management solutions using artificial intelligence. Founded by AI experts from top technology companies in 2022, Wealth AI is dedicated to the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in wealth management.

On December 16, 2024, the Company completed its acquisition of all shares of InnoSphere Tech Inc. (“InnoSphere Tech”), a company incorporated under the laws of the British Virgin Islands. InnoSphere Tech is a technology company that leverages its advantages in web scraping technology to collect data on finance, wealth management, and related industries according to international standards. Through the accumulation and processing of large amounts of data, its system can train a specialized large model tailored for the wealth management industry, providing robust foundational support to clients in the financial sector that surpasses traditional general-purpose large models.

On December 16, 2024, the Company also completed its acquisition of all shares of Tokyo Bay Management Inc. (“Tokyo Bay”), a company incorporated under the laws of the British Virgin Islands. Tokyo Bay is a company based in Tokyo, Japan. Founded by experienced professionals, the Tokyo Bay team has accumulated extensive premium client resources and local market knowledge over the past years, providing wealth management services, family affairs services, lifestyle management services and related value-added services to high-net-worth clients in Japan.

About Prestige Wealth Inc.

Prestige Wealth Inc. is a wealth management and asset management services provider based in Hong Kong, assisting its clients in identifying and purchasing well-matched wealth management products and global asset management products. With a focus on quality service, the Company has retained a loyal customer base consisting of high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth clients in Asia. Through the Company’s wealth management service, it introduces clients to customized wealth management products and provides them with tailored value-added services. The Company provides asset management services via investment funds that it manages and also provides discretionary account management services and asset management-related advisory services to clients. For more information, please visit the Company’s website: http://ir.prestigewm.hk/index.html.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can find many (but not all) of these statements by the use of words such as “approximates,” “believes,” “hopes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “projects,” “intends,” “plans,” “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “may” or other similar expressions in this prospectus. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC.

PRESTIGE WEALTH INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
	March 31, 2024			September 30, 2023
	(Unaudited)
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$	294,548		$	431,307
Restricted cash		200,000			200,000
Accounts receivable		350,826			273,257
Contract asset		3,002			91,565
Note Receivables		1,037,199			3,755,794
Amounts due from related parties		1,619,590			1,592,593
Right-of-use assets, current		213,978			213,814
Income tax receivable		45,783			29,279
Prepaid expenses and other assets		2,765,857			66,484
Total current assets		6,530,783			6,654,093

NON-CURRENT ASSETS
Right-of-use asset, non-current	$	42,247		$	140,898
Prepaid expenses and other assets		68,672			68,620
Total non-current assets	$	110,919		$	209,518
Total assets	$	6,641,702		$	6,863,611

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current Liabilities
Income tax payable	$	37,345		$	27,648
Lease liability, current		237,535			220,101
Amounts due to related parties		190,844			—
Deferred tax liabilities		11,858			14,415
Other payables and accrued liabilities		435,228			257,906
Total current liabilities	$	912,810		$	520,070

NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES
Lease liability, non-current	$	49,095		$	160,996
Total non-current liabilities	$	49,095		$	160,996
Total liabilities	$	961,905		$	681,066

Shareholders’ equity
Ordinary share ($0.000625 par value, 1,600,000,000 shares authorized, 9,150,000 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2024; $0.000625 par value, 160,000,000 shares authorized, 9,150,000 shares issued and outstanding as of September 30, 2023)*	$	5,719		$	5,719
Additional paid in capital		2,570,664			2,570,664
Retained earnings		3,139,565			3,642,994
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(36,151	)		(36,832	)
Total shareholders’ equity	$	5,679,797		$	6,182,545
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	6,641,702		$	6,863,611

* The shares are presented on a retroactive basis to reflect the Company’s share subdivision on July 15, 2022.

PRESTIGE WEALTH INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
	For the six months ended March 31,
	2024			2023
	(Unaudited)			(Unaudited)
Net revenue
Wealth management services
Referral fees	$	11,685		$	74,875

Asset management services
Advisory service fees		459,974			212,486
Management fees		25,970			25,603
Subtotal		485,944			238,089
Total net revenue		497,629			312,964

Gross Margin		497,629			312,964

Operation cost and expenses
Selling, general and administrative expenses		1,105,629			311,871
Total operation cost and expenses		1,105,629			311,871

(Loss) Income from operations		(608,000	)		1,093

Other income		118,580			3,335

(Loss) Income before income taxes		(489,420	)		4,428
Income taxes (expenses) benefits		(14,009	)		21,132

Net (loss) income	$	(503,429	)	$	25,560

Other comprehensive (loss) income
Foreign currency translation adjustment		681			6,016
Total comprehensive (loss) income	$	(502,748	)	$	31,576

(Loss) Earnings per ordinary share
Basic and diluted	$	(0.055	)	$	0.003

Weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding*
Basic and diluted		9,150,000			8,000,000

The MIL Network –

February 14, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Hits Trump’s Trade Policy on CNBC: “It Almost Seems Like A Tariff Tantrum”

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
02.13.25
Cantwell Hits Trump’s Trade Policy on CNBC: “It Almost Seems Like A Tariff Tantrum”
WA depends on steel & aluminum imports; last year, the state imported $1.2B worth of steel & aluminum for aerospace, shipbuilding, electronics & more; Last round of Trump trade wars nearly decimated WA’s apple export market to India; Cantwell helped negotiate end to retaliatory tariffs in 2023 & restore the market
WASHINGTON, D.C. – This morning, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and a senior member of the Senate Committee on Finance, appeared on CNBC’s Squawk Box to push back against President Trump’s aggressive use of tariffs, even against the United States’ closest allies, instead of focusing on opening up export markets and lowering costs for American consumers.
“This is the fourth week of the Trump Administration, and I would hope that we would have been hearing about how we’re lowering costs on housing, food prices, and drugs. And instead, we’re now in – it almost seems like a tariff tantrum, like we’re just going to tariff everything. And what I would like to see is an engagement by both Democrats and Republicans pushing back on this notion that a ‘tariff everything’ strategy is the way to get out of this situation,” Sen. Cantwell told Squawk Box’s Andrew Ross Sorkin.
“I’ve been critical of Obama’s tariffs. I’ve been critical of Biden’s tariffs. What I want people to understand is we live in a world, now, where alliances and dealing with these issues on a coalition basis will get us further, because 95% of consumers are outside the United States,” she continued.
“In the last Trump administration, he did the same thing [… he] cut hundreds of apple jobs in my state that never recovered. But it decimated a $120 million market, and then, basically, because of the retaliatory tariffs, we were without an apple market to India. I worked in the Biden administration to get that restored. So, what people don’t understand is, in this environment, you don’t just lose farmland — because actually, Bill Gates or somebody will buy it — you’re losing farmers. And right now, the world, we should be opening up markets. We should be opening up agriculture opportunities around the globe.”
Her full appearance on Squawk Box can be viewed HERE; a transcript of the interview is HERE.
In Washington state, two out of every five jobs are tied to trade and trade-related industries. Combined, the state imported $1.21 billion worth of steel and aluminum last year – and the major industries and employers in Washington that rely on steel and aluminum include aerospace, shipbuilding, utilities, and electronics.
When President Trump imposed steel tariffs in 2018, our trading partners immediately responded by imposing tariffs of their own on Washington products, especially agriculture, including cherries, apples, pears, and potatoes. Nationally, across all industries, the steel and aluminum tariffs resulted in a decrease in production worth about $3.4 billion per year, according to an ITC report.
Sen. Cantwell has remained a steadfast supporter of free trade to grow the economy in the State of Washington and nationwide. Sen. Cantwell was the leading voice in negotiations to end India’s 20% retaliatory tariff on American apples, which was imposed in response to tariffs on steel and aluminum and devastated Washington state’s apple exports. India had once been the second-largest export market for American apples, but after President Trump imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum in his first term, India imposed retaliatory tariffs in response and U.S. apple exports plummeted. The impact on Washington apple growers was severe: Apple exports from the state dropped from $120 million in 2017 to less than $1 million by 2023. In September 2023, following several years of Sen. Cantwell’s advocacy, India ended its retaliatory tariffs on apples and pulse crops which was welcome news to the state’s more than 1,400 apple growers and the 68,000-plus workers they support.
Last week, Sen. Cantwell also delivered a major speech on the Senate floor arguing that the president’s arbitrary tariffs would threaten domestic job creation and economic growth in an Information Age. She outlined a strategy focused on building coalitions, growing exports, and establishing principles to support innovation in the Information Age.
Sen. Cantwell also voted against advancing the nomination of Howard Lutnick, President Trump’s choice to be Secretary of the Department of Commerce, citing concerns with Lutnick’s support for Trump’s proposed tariffs. More information on how President Trump’s proposed tariffs on goods from Mexico, Canada, and China would affect consumers and businesses in the State of Washington can be found HERE.
In May 2023, Sen. Cantwell sent a letter urging the Biden Administration to help U.S. potato growers finally get approval to sell fresh potatoes in Japan. In June 2023, Sen. Cantwell hosted U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), then-chair of the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, in Washington state for a forum with 30 local agricultural leaders in Wenatchee to discuss the Farm Bill.
In 2022, Sen. Cantwell spearheaded passage of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act, a law to crack down on skyrocketing international ocean shipping costs and ease supply chain backlogs that raise prices for consumers and make it harder for U.S. farmers and exporters to get their goods to the global market.
In August 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sen. Cantwell sent a letter to then-Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue requesting aid funds be distributed to wheat growers. In December 2018, Sen. Cantwell celebrated the passage of the Farm Bill, which included $500 million of assistance for farmers, including those who grow wheat.
In 2019, Sen. Cantwell helped secure a provision in the $16 billion USDA relief package, ensuring sweet cherry growers could access emergency funding to offset the impacts of tariffs and other market disruptions.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Sullivan Legislation Strengthens U.S./Israel Alliance, Reinstates “Peace Through Strength” Policies in the Middle East

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan
02.13.25
WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), introduced a package of three bills focused on promoting stability and security in the Middle East: the Enhanced Iran Sanctions Act, the United States-Israel Defense Partnership Act of 2025, and the Stop the ICC. These bills work to strengthen the U.S.-Israel military alliance, bolster the U.S. sanctions regime against Iran—the architect of chaos in the Middle East—and prohibit U.S. funding of or cooperation with the antisemitic International Criminal Court (ICC). Much of Sullivan’s Enhanced Iran Sanctions Act dovetails with President Trump’s recent executive orders on Iran and Israel.
“Taken together, this suite of bills sends a clear message that the United States stands firmly with Israel,” said Senator Sullivan. “The Biden administration refused to enforce the comprehensive Iran sanctions that President Trump enacted during his first term. As a result, Iran was given more than $70 billion and used this windfall to spread terror across the Middle East and in Israel. Congress needs to send a clear message that this must stop. Further, to better protect our interests at home and strengthen our alliance with Israel, we must strengthen the U.S.-Israel security partnership and stand with Israel against antisemitic institutions that threaten the existence of our closest ally in the Middle East. It’s time to return to ‘peace through strength’ in the Middle East and stand stronger than ever against the Iranian regime and its terrorist proxies that are threatening Israel and American interests throughout the region.”
See below for summaries of Senator Sullivan’s legislation.
Enhanced Iran Sanctions Act
This legislation supports the return to a maximum pressure posture toward Iran by strengthening the U.S. sanctions regime against Iran by filling the gaps on existing sanctions legislation and mandating rigorous enforcement of sanctions. Specifically, the legislation expands the range of sanctions to encompass the full logistical chain of Iranian energy exports, it creates an interagency task force to constantly track Iranian illicit activities, and it sunsets the timeline to issue sanctions waivers. It also includes provisions to encourage a new multilateral contact group with like-minded nations to coordinate international sanctions enforcement efforts.
Specifically, the bill takes several important measures:
Imposes secondary sanctions on the entire logistical chain of foreign entities supporting Iran’s illicit oil sales, including Chinese banks, maritime insurance providers, and flagging registries, as well as the executive-level leadership in those corporations and their immediate family members. It also imposes sanctions on family members of individuals in Iran sanctioned for terrorism, ballistic missile production, or weapons of mass destruction (WMD) facilities.
Creates an interagency Iran sanctions working group tasked with constantly tracking illicit transfers of Iranian oil, gas, and related products, with a periodic reporting plan to outline efforts to keep abreast of the evolving sanctions-evasion efforts, and identify new sanctions designations packages.
Creates a multilateral contact group for harmonizing and enforcing international sanctions on Iran.
Directs the provision of a private sector reporting mechanism, which financially incentivizes private sector counterparts to share information about illicit Iranian transfer operations.
Initiates a periodic (180-day) review by the President to justify maintaining existing waivers on eligible nations’ purchase of Iranian oil, accompanied by a detailed, credible plan to phase out the need for waivers for each applicable country. This would include sunset waiver authority on Iran sanctions, following a periodic congressional review.
Sunsets the presidential sanctions waiver authority in February 1, 2029.
This legislation is cosponsored by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.).
The United States-Israel Defense Partnership Act of 2025
This bill strengthens the U.S.-Israel security partnership by extending and expanding existing bilateral security initiatives. It also establishes new cooperative programs, including a broader initiative on unmanned systems, establishing a Defense Innovation Unit in Israel, and advocating for consideration of Israel’s inclusion in the National Technology Industrial Base (NTIB). Finally, it calls for greater cooperation between Israel and regional countries in advancing work on Integrated Air and Missile Defense.
Specifically, this bill takes several important measures:
Establishes a program between the United States and Israel on Countering Unmanned Systems (C-UxS). This entails a program of cooperation to develop, test, and deploy advanced C-UxS technologies to address threats posed by UAS, funded at $150 million per year.
Extension and expansion of the U.S.-Israel Counter-UAS Cooperative Program. This would increase funding for the current initiative from $55 million to $75 million annually.
Extension and expansion of the United States-Israel Anti-Tunneling Cooperative Program. Extends the authorization of the U.S.-Israel Anti-Tunneling Cooperative Program to Dec 31, 2028 and increases the authorization to $80 million per year.
Authorizes cooperation between the United States and Israel on emerging defense technologies for 5 years (United States-Israel Future of Warfare Act). Provides $47.5 million a year to encourage further defense collaboration with Israel in areas of emerging technologies, including autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum, and biotechnology.
Reauthorizes the War Reserves Stockpile Authority – Israel (WRSA-I); extends the authorization of WRSA-I, which expires at the end of 2026, through January 1, 2029.
Establishes a Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) office in Israel. A DIU office in Israel will work with the Israeli Minister of Defense and private sector to counter Iran’s development of dual-use defense technologies.
Israel-National Technology Industrial Base (NTIB) Engagement. This requires the Secretary of Defense to engage with his or her Israeli counterpart to initiate a discussion on the process of Israeli ascension into NTIB.
Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD). This requires the Secretary of Defense to provide a report on strengthening IAMD in the Middle East.
This legislation is cosponsored by Senators Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.).
Stop the ICC Act
This bill prohibits funding for and cooperation with the International Criminal Court (ICC), based on its antisemitic efforts to prosecute top Israeli officials and create a false equivalence between Israel and Hamas, a terrorist organization. It also prohibits U.S. economic support for the Palestinian Authority (PA) based on its cooperation with the ICC’s investigations against Israeli officials. Specifically, it instructs the President to freeze property assets and deny visas to any foreigners who materially or financially contributed to the ICC’s efforts to “investigate, arrest, detain or prosecute a protected person.” Protected persons are defined as all current and former military and government officials of the U.S. and allies that have not consented to the court’s jurisdiction, such as Israel. The legislation covers the 32-member NATO and the 19 major non-NATO countries, which include Israel, Japan, Taiwan, Australia, South Korea, the Philippines, and Egypt. It would also rescind any funds the U.S. has designated for the ICC and prohibit any future money for the court.
Background: In May 2024, ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan announced that he was seeking warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and then-Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, as well as Hamas leadership. In November 2024, the court issued warrants for Mr. Netanyahu, Mr. Gallant and Hamas leaders for war crimes and crimes against humanity.
This legislation is cosponsored by Senator Tom Cotton (R-Ark.).

MIL OSI USA News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI: Diginex announces new AI functionality after winning Government recognition for AI-powered compliance innovation

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

HONG KONG, Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diginex Limited (“Diginex Limited” or the “Company”), a Cayman Islands-based impact technology company specializing in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues, today announced the development of new AI functionality which is expected to be built leveraging OpenAI’s platform. The Company anticipates that the deployment of this AI feature will contribute to revenue growth starting in 2025 by enhancing diginexESG‘s value proposition and driving increased customer adoption. The initial focus will be on helping companies comply with sustainability disclosure requirements set by the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), which are increasingly being mandated for companies involved in global ESG reporting. These features will provide rapid data extraction, improved compliance, and enhanced risk assessment for users of the Company’s ESG SaaS reporting product, diginexESG.

This AI functionality positions diginexESG to capture the growing demand for ESG reporting solutions – a market projected to reach between USD 1.5 billion and USD 4.35 billion by 2027, with an expected CAGR of 15.9% to 30% according to industry research from Verdantix – and is alongside the Company’s recent selection by the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (FSTB) of Hong Kong for the Green and Sustainable Fintech PoC program. The FSTB, which oversees financial and treasury policy for the Hong Kong SAR Government, launched this program to support innovative green fintech solutions with measurable environmental and financial impact. This builds on previous recognition where, in December 2023, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, named Diginex as winner of the “Sustainability or Climate-related Disclosure and Reporting” category.

The FSTB launched this program to accelerate the development and commercial adoption of green fintech solutions by technology firms and research institutions. “We are thrilled to receive this endorsement and support from FSTB, which underscores the importance of AI technology in addressing significant challenges within the ESG and sustainability industry,” said Mark Blick, Chief Executive Officer of Diginex Limited. “We will be accelerating our efforts to deliver innovative AI-powered functionality that will support companies with their ESG, Climate and Supply Chain data collection and reporting while improving efficiency and customer experience. We plan to collaborate closely with leading global financial institutions to introduce this new feature to their clients.”

About Diginex Limited

Diginex Limited is a Cayman Islands exempted company incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands in 2024, with subsidiaries located in Hong Kong, United Kingdom and United States of America. Diginex Limited conducts operations through its wholly owned subsidiary Diginex Solutions (HK) Limited, a Hong Kong corporation (“DSL”) and DSL is the sole owner of (i) Diginex Services Limited, a corporation formed in the United Kingdom and (ii) Diginex USA LLC, a limited liability company formed in the State of Delaware. DSL commenced operations in 2020, is headquartered in Hong Kong, and is a software company that empowers businesses and governments to streamline ESG, climate, and supply chain data collection and reporting. DSL is an impact technology business that helps organizations to address the some of the most pressing ESG, climate and sustainability issues, utilizing blockchain, machine learning and data analysis technology to lead change and increase transparency in corporate social responsibility and climate action.

Diginex’s products and services solutions enable companies to collect, evaluate and share sustainability data through easy-to-use software. For more information, please visit the Company’s website: https://www.diginex.com/.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements concerning the Company’s product offerings, business strategy, projections and future growth. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs, including the expectation that the Company’s business strategy will be successful. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “approximates,” “believes,” “hopes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “projects,” “intends,” “plans,” “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “may” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results.

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

Diginex
Investor Relations
Email:ir@diginex.com

Jackson Lin
Lambert by LLYC
Phone: +1 (646) 717-4593
Email: jian.lin@llyc.global

The MIL Network –

February 14, 2025

MIL-OSI: Applied Materials Announces First Quarter 2025 Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Revenue $7.17 billion, up 7 percent year over year
GAAP gross margin 48.8 percent and non-GAAP gross margin 48.9 percent
GAAP operating margin 30.4 percent and non-GAAP operating margin 30.6 percent
GAAP EPS $1.45 and non-GAAP EPS $2.38, down 40 percent and up 12 percent year over year, respectively
Generated $925 million in cash from operations and distributed $1.64 billion to shareholders including $1.32 billion in share repurchases and $326 million in dividends

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Applied Materials, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMAT) today reported results for its first quarter ended Jan. 26, 2025.

“The industry drive to accelerate the development of advanced compute and more sophisticated AI is gaining momentum,” said Gary Dickerson, President and CEO. “Applied Materials is enabling the major device architecture inflections critical for energy-efficient AI and our focus on high-velocity co-innovation creates unique collaboration opportunities with our customers and partners, positioning Applied for continued growth and outperformance in the years to come.”

“We delivered strong financial performance in the first fiscal quarter, with record revenue, gross margin expansion and robust shareholder distributions,” said Brice Hill, Senior Vice President and CFO. “ For the second fiscal quarter, we are encouraged by the trends supporting continued customer investments to enable leading-edge technology inflections, while also taking into account export control related headwinds.”

Results Summary

	Q1 FY2025			Q1 FY2024			Change
	(In millions, except per share amounts and percentages)
Net revenue	$	7,166		$	6,707		7%
Gross margin		48.8	%		47.8	%	1.0 point
Operating margin		30.4	%		29.3	%	1.1 points
Net income	$	1,185		$	2,019		(41)%
Diluted earnings per share	$	1.45		$	2.41		(40)%
Non-GAAP Results
Non-GAAP gross margin		48.9	%		47.9	%	1.0 point
Non-GAAP operating margin		30.6	%		29.5	%	1.1 points
Non-GAAP net income	$	1,946		$	1,782		9%
Non-GAAP diluted EPS	$	2.38		$	2.13		12%
Non-GAAP free cash flow	$	544		$	2,096		(74)%

A reconciliation of the GAAP and non-GAAP results is provided in the financial tables included in this release. See also “Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section.

Impact of Singapore Tax Incentives

As a result of new tax incentive agreements in Singapore in fiscal 2025, the company recorded a $644 million, or $0.79 per diluted share, income tax expense due to the remeasurement of deferred tax assets in Singapore.

Business Outlook

Applied’s total net revenue, non-GAAP gross margin and non-GAAP diluted EPS for the second quarter of fiscal 2025, including the estimated impact of recently announced U.S. export regulations, are expected to be approximately as follows:

	Q2 FY2025
(In millions, except percentage and per share amounts)
Total net revenue	$	7,100		+/-	$	400
Non-GAAP gross margin		48.4	%
Non-GAAP diluted EPS	$	2.30		+/-	$	0.18

This outlook for non-GAAP diluted EPS excludes known charges related to completed acquisitions of $0.01 per share and a gain on asset sale of $0.05 per share, and includes a net income tax benefit related to intra-entity intangible asset transfers of $0.04 per share, but does not reflect any items that are unknown at this time, such as any additional charges related to acquisitions or other non-operational or unusual items, as well as other tax-related items, which we are not able to predict without unreasonable efforts due to their inherent uncertainty.

First Quarter Reportable Segment Information

*Semiconductor Systems*	Q1 FY2025			Q1 FY2024
	(In millions, except percentages)
Net revenue	$	5,356		$	4,909
Foundry, logic and other		68	%		62	%
DRAM		28	%		34	%
Flash memory		4	%		4	%
Operating income	$	1,986		$	1,744
Operating margin		37.1	%		35.5	%
Non-GAAP Results
Non-GAAP operating income	$	1,998		$	1,754
Non-GAAP operating margin		37.3	%		35.7	%

*Applied Global Services*	Q1 FY2025			Q1 FY2024
	(In millions, except percentages)
Net revenue	$	1,594		$	1,476
Operating income	$	447		$	417
Operating margin		28.0	%		28.3	%
Non-GAAP Results
Non-GAAP operating income	$	447		$	417
Non-GAAP operating margin		28.0	%		28.3	%

*Display*	Q1 FY2025			Q1 FY2024
	(In millions, except percentages)
Net revenue	$	183		$	244
Operating income	$	14		$	25
Operating margin		7.7	%		10.2	%
Non-GAAP Results
Non-GAAP operating income	$	14		$	25
Non-GAAP operating margin		7.7	%		10.2	%

*Corporate and Other*	Q1 FY2025			Q1 FY2024
	(In millions)
Unallocated net revenue	$	33		$	78
Unallocated cost of products sold and expenses		(305	)		(297	)
Total	$	(272	)	$	(219	)

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

Applied provides investors with certain non-GAAP financial measures, which are adjusted for the impact of certain costs, expenses, gains and losses, including certain items related to mergers and acquisitions; restructuring and severance charges and any associated adjustments; impairments of assets; gain or loss, dividends and impairments on strategic investments; certain income tax items and other discrete adjustments. On a non-GAAP basis, the tax effect related to share-based compensation is recognized ratably over the fiscal year. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP are provided in the financial tables included in this release.

Management uses these non-GAAP financial measures to evaluate the company’s operating and financial performance and for planning purposes, and as performance measures in its executive compensation program. Applied believes these measures enhance an overall understanding of its performance and investors’ ability to review the company’s business from the same perspective as the company’s management, and facilitate comparisons of this period’s results with prior periods on a consistent basis by excluding items that management does not believe are indicative of Applied’s ongoing operating performance. There are limitations in using non-GAAP financial measures because the non-GAAP financial measures are not prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, may be different from non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies, and may exclude certain items that may have a material impact upon our reported financial results. The presentation of this additional information is not meant to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the directly comparable financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP.

Webcast Information

Applied Materials will discuss these results during an earnings call that begins at 1:30 p.m. Pacific Time today. A live webcast and related slide presentation will be available at https://ir.appliedmaterials.com. A replay will be available on the website beginning at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time today.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements, including those regarding anticipated growth and trends in our businesses and markets, industry outlooks and demand drivers, technology transitions, our business and financial performance and market share positions, our capital allocation and cash deployment strategies, our investment and growth strategies, our development of new products and technologies, our business outlook for the second quarter of fiscal 2025 and beyond, and other statements that are not historical facts. These statements and their underlying assumptions are subject to risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements include, without limitation: the level of demand for our products; global economic, political and industry conditions, including changes in interest rates and prices for goods and services; the implementation of additional export regulations and license requirements and their interpretation, and their impact on our ability to export products and provide services to customers and on our results of operations; global trade issues and changes in trade and export license policies and our ability to obtain licenses or authorizations on a timely basis, if at all; imposition of new or increases in tariffs and any retaliatory measures; the effects of geopolitical turmoil or conflicts; demand for semiconductor chips and electronic devices; customers’ technology and capacity requirements; the introduction of new and innovative technologies, and the timing of technology transitions; our ability to develop, deliver and support new products and technologies; our ability to meet customer demand, and our suppliers’ ability to meet our demand requirements; the concentrated nature of our customer base; our ability to expand our current markets, increase market share and develop new markets; market acceptance of existing and newly developed products; our ability to obtain and protect intellectual property rights in key technologies; cybersecurity incidents affecting our information systems or information contained in them, or affecting our operations, suppliers, customers or vendors; our ability to achieve the objectives of operational and strategic initiatives, align our resources and cost structure with business conditions, and attract, motivate and retain key employees; the effects of regional or global health epidemics; acquisitions, investments and divestitures; changes in income tax laws; the variability of operating expenses and results among products and segments, and our ability to accurately forecast future results, market conditions, customer requirements and business needs; our ability to ensure compliance with applicable law, rules and regulations and other risks and uncertainties described in our SEC filings, including our recent Forms 10-K and 8-K. All forward-looking statements are based on management’s current estimates, projections and assumptions, and we assume no obligation to update them.

About Applied Materials

Applied Materials, Inc. (Nasdaq: AMAT) is the leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. Our expertise in modifying materials at atomic levels and on an industrial scale enables customers to transform possibilities into reality. At Applied Materials, our innovations make possible a better future. Learn more at www.appliedmaterials.com.

Investor Relations Contact:
Liz Morali (408) 986-7977
liz_morali@amat.com

Media Contact:
Ricky Gradwohl (408) 235-4676
ricky_gradwohl@amat.com


APPLIED MATERIALS, INC. UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

	Three Months Ended
(In millions, except per share amounts)	January 26, 2025		January 28, 2024
Net revenue	$	7,166	$	6,707
Cost of products sold		3,670		3,503
Gross profit		3,496		3,204
Operating expenses:
Research, development and engineering		859		754
Marketing and selling		206		207
General and administrative		256		276
Total operating expenses		1,321		1,237
Income from operations		2,175		1,967
Interest expense		64		59
Interest and other income (expense), net		8		395
Income before income taxes		2,119		2,303
Provision for income taxes		934		284
Net income	$	1,185	$	2,019
Earnings per share:
Basic	$	1.46	$	2.43
Diluted	$	1.45	$	2.41
Weighted average number of shares:
Basic		814		831
Diluted		819		837


APPLIED MATERIALS, INC. UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS

(In millions)	January 26, 2025		October 27, 2024
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	6,264	$	8,022
Short-term investments		1,949		1,449
Accounts receivable, net		5,998		5,234
Inventories		5,501		5,421
Other current assets		982		1,094
Total current assets		20,694		21,220
Long-term investments		2,686		2,787
Property, plant and equipment, net		3,563		3,339
Goodwill		3,768		3,732
Purchased technology and other intangible assets, net		237		249
Deferred income taxes and other assets		2,390		3,082
Total assets	$	33,338	$	34,409
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Short-term debt	$	799	$	799
Accounts payable and accrued expenses		4,485		4,820
Contract liabilities		2,452		2,849
Total current liabilities		7,736		8,468
Long-term debt		5,461		5,460
Income taxes payable		684		670
Other liabilities		832		810
Total liabilities		14,713		15,408
Total stockholders’ equity		18,625		19,001
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	33,338	$	34,409


APPLIED MATERIALS, INC. UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

	Three Months Ended
(In millions)	January 26, 2025			January 28, 2024
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$	1,185		$	2,019
Adjustments required to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization		105			91
Share-based compensation		195			170
Deferred income taxes		668			(72	)
Other		95			(235	)
Net change in operating assets and liabilities		(1,323	)		352
Cash provided by operating activities		925			2,325
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures		(381	)		(229	)
Cash paid for acquisitions, net of cash acquired		(28	)		—
Proceeds from sales and maturities of investments		1,223			531
Purchases of investments		(1,711	)		(749	)
Cash used in investing activities		(897	)		(447	)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of commercial paper		200			100
Repayments of commercial paper		(200	)		(100	)
Common stock repurchases		(1,318	)		(700	)
Tax withholding payments for vested equity awards		(142	)		(192	)
Payments of dividends to stockholders		(326	)		(266	)
Repayments of principal on finance leases		—			1
Cash used in financing activities		(1,786	)		(1,157	)
Increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash equivalents		(1,758	)		721
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash equivalents—beginning of period		8,113			6,233
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash equivalents — end of period	$	6,355		$	6,954

Reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents	$	6,264		$	6,854
Restricted cash equivalents included in deferred income taxes and other assets		91			100
Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash equivalents	$	6,355		$	6,954

Supplemental cash flow information:
Cash payments for income taxes	$	70		$	139
Cash refunds from income taxes	$	70		$	2
Cash payments for interest	$	52		$	34

Additional Information

	Q1 FY2025			Q1 FY2024
Net Revenue by Geography (In millions)
United States	$	917		$	759
% of Total		13	%		11	%
Europe	$	330		$	410
% of Total		4	%		6	%
Japan	$	540		$	565
% of Total		8	%		9	%
Korea	$	1,667		$	1,231
% of Total		23	%		18	%
Taiwan	$	1,183		$	559
% of Total		17	%		8	%
Southeast Asia	$	286		$	186
% of Total		4	%		3	%
China	$	2,243		$	2,997
% of Total		31	%		45	%

Employees(In thousands)
Regular Full Time		36.0			34.5


APPLIED MATERIALS, INC. UNAUDITED RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP RESULTS

	Three Months Ended
(In millions, except percentages)	January 26, 2025			January 28, 2024
Non-GAAP Gross Profit
GAAP reported gross profit	$	3,496		$	3,204
Certain items associated with acquisitions¹		7			7
Non-GAAP gross profit	$	3,503		$	3,211
Non-GAAP gross margin		48.9	%		47.9	%
Non-GAAP Operating Income
GAAP reported operating income	$	2,175		$	1,967
Certain items associated with acquisitions¹		12			11
Acquisition integration and deal costs		3			3
Non-GAAP operating income	$	2,190		$	1,981
Non-GAAP operating margin		30.6	%		29.5	%
Non-GAAP Net Income
GAAP reported net income	$	1,185		$	2,019
Certain items associated with acquisitions¹		12			11
Acquisition integration and deal costs		3			3
Realized loss (gain), dividends and impairments on strategic investments, net		(9	)		(1	)
Unrealized loss (gain) on strategic investments, net		106			(280	)
Income tax effect of share-based compensation²		(10	)		(26	)
Income tax effects related to intra-entity intangible asset transfers³		674			22
Resolution of prior years’ income tax filings and other tax items		(16	)		33
Income tax effect of non-GAAP adjustments⁴		1			1
Non-GAAP net income	$	1,946		$	1,782

1	These items are incremental charges attributable to completed acquisitions, consisting of amortization of purchased intangible assets.

2	GAAP basis tax benefit related to share-based compensation is recognized ratably over the fiscal year on a non-GAAP basis.

3	Amount for the three months ended January 26, 2025, included changes to income tax provision of $30 million from amortization of intangibles and a $644 million remeasurement of deferred tax assets resulting from new tax incentive agreements in Singapore in fiscal 2025.

4	Adjustment to provision for income taxes related to non-GAAP adjustments reflected in income before income taxes.


APPLIED MATERIALS, INC. UNAUDITED RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP RESULTS

	Three Months Ended
(In millions, except per share amounts)	January 26, 2025			January 28, 2024
Non-GAAP Earnings Per Diluted Share
GAAP reported earnings per diluted share	$	1.45		$	2.41
Certain items associated with acquisitions		0.01			0.01
Realized loss (gain), dividends and impairments on strategic investments, net		(0.01	)		—
Unrealized loss (gain) on strategic investments, net		0.13			(0.33	)
Income tax effect of share-based compensation		(0.01	)		(0.03	)
Income tax effects related to intra-entity intangible asset transfers¹		0.83			0.03
Resolution of prior years’ income tax filings and other tax items		(0.02	)		0.04
Non-GAAP earnings per diluted share	$	2.38		$	2.13
Weighted average number of diluted shares		819			837

1	Amount for the three months ended January 26, 2025, included changes to income tax provision of $0.04 per diluted share from amortization of intangibles and $0.79 per diluted share from a remeasurement of deferred tax assets resulting from new tax incentive agreements in Singapore in fiscal 2025.


APPLIED MATERIALS, INC. UNAUDITED RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP RESULTS

	Three Months Ended
(In millions, except percentages)	January 26, 2025			January 28, 2024
Semiconductor Systems Non-GAAP Operating Income
GAAP reported operating income	$	1,986		$	1,744
Certain items associated with acquisitions¹		12			10
Non-GAAP operating income	$	1,998		$	1,754
Non-GAAP operating margin		37.3	%		35.7	%
Applied Global Services Non-GAAP Operating Income
GAAP reported operating income	$	447		$	417
Non-GAAP operating income	$	447		$	417
Non-GAAP operating margin		28.0	%		28.3	%
Display Non-GAAP Operating Income
GAAP reported operating income	$	14		$	25
Non-GAAP operating income	$	14		$	25
Non-GAAP operating margin		7.7	%		10.2	%

1	These items are incremental charges attributable to completed acquisitions, consisting of amortization of purchased intangible assets.

Note: The reconciliation of GAAP and non-GAAP segment results above does not include certain revenues, costs of products sold and operating expenses that are reported within corporate and other and included in consolidated operating income.


APPLIED MATERIALS, INC. UNAUDITED RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP EFFECTIVE INCOME TAX RATE

	Three Months Ended
(In millions, except percentages)	January 26, 2025

GAAP provision for income taxes (a)	$	934
Income tax effect of share-based compensation		10
Income tax effects related to intra-entity intangible asset transfers		(674	)
Resolutions of prior years’ income tax filings and other tax items		16
Income tax effect of non-GAAP adjustments		(1	)
Non-GAAP provision for income taxes (b)	$	285

GAAP income before income taxes (c)	$	2,119
Certain items associated with acquisitions		12
Acquisition integration and deal costs		3
Realized loss (gain), dividends and impairments on strategic investments, net		(9	)
Unrealized loss (gain) on strategic investments, net		106
Non-GAAP income before income taxes (d)	$	2,231

GAAP effective income tax rate (a/c)		44.1	%

Non-GAAP effective income tax rate (b/d)		12.8	%


UNAUDITED RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP FREE CASH FLOW

	Three Months Ended
(In millions)	January 26, 2025			January 28, 2024
Cash provided by operating activities	$	925		$	2,325
Capital expenditures		(381	)		(229	)
Non-GAAP free cash flow	$	544		$	2,096

The MIL Network –

February 14, 2025

MIL-OSI Submissions: Bangladesh: Critical UN report must spur accountability and justice – Amnesty International

Source: Amnesty International

Responding to the UN Fact-Finding report published yesterday which finds reasonable grounds to believe Bangladesh’s former Government and security apparatus systematically engaged in a range of serious human rights violations raising concerns as to crimes against humanity, Smriti Singh, regional director for South Asia at Amnesty International, said:

“This 105-page UN report lays bare the scale and severity of the human rights violations committed by the regime led by the ex-prime minister Sheikh Hasina to repress anti-government protests in Bangladesh. It echoes and expands on the findings by Amnesty International and other human rights organizations from last year. While the report is an important attempt to address serious violations in the country, the UN should not stop its efforts here. Continued efforts for investigation and fact-finding by UN human rights mechanisms are critical to support accountability and justice for victims in Bangladesh.

“The Interim Government must take seriously the UN recommendation to consider referring to the International Criminal Court all the incidents which took place between 1 July to 15 August in Bangladesh. The government must also implement other immediate and longer-term recommendations in the report including guarantees of fair trial and due process in ongoing investigations, security and justice sector reform and repeal of draconian laws that restrict civic space, among others. However, to ensure lasting truth, justice, accountability, reparations and guarantees of non-recurrence, the engagement with UN mechanisms and bodies must continue beyond this. Any failure to do so would be to turn our backs on the victims and survivors.”

(ref. https://www.ohchr.org/en/documents/country-reports/ohchr-fact-finding-report-human-rights-violations-and-abuses-related )

Background

On 12 February, the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) published their report based on an independent fact-finding inquiry into alleged human rights violations and abuses that occurred during widespread protests in Bangladesh between 1 July and 15 August 2024.

Last year, Amnesty International had documented the violence and repression in Bangladesh in response to the students-led quota-reform protests across the country. We published a video verification series documenting evidence of the unlawful use of both lethal and less-lethal force against student protesters.

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Establishes the Make America Healthy Again Commission
Source: The White House
MAKING AMERICA HEALTHY AGAIN: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order establishing the President’s Make America Healthy Again Commission.
- Chaired by U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Commission is tasked with investigating and addressing the root causes of America’s escalating health crisis, with an initial focus on childhood chronic diseases.
- Within 100 days, the Commission will produce an assessment that summarizes what is known and what questions remain regarding the childhood chronic disease crisis, and include international comparisons.
- Within 180 days, the Commission will produce a strategy, based on the findings of the assessment, to improve the health of America’s children.
- The Commission has four main policy directives to reverse chronic disease:
  
  Empower Americans through transparency and open-source data and avoid conflicts of interest in all federally funded health research.
  
  Prioritize gold-standard research on why Americans are getting sick in all health-related research funded by the federal government.
  
  Work with farmers to ensure that U.S. food is the healthy, abundant and affordable.
  
  Ensure expanded treatment options and health coverage flexibility for beneficial lifestyle changes and disease prevention.
- The Commission aims to restore trust in medical and scientific institutions and hold public hearings, meetings, roundtables, and similar events to receive expert input from leaders in public health.
ADDRESSING THE RISE OF CHRONIC ILLNESSES: President Trump understands that America’s healthcare system is largely focused on treating chronic illnesses rather than preventing them, leading to a growing health crisis with serious economic and national security consequences.
- Based on all health indicators and global comparisons, Americans are becoming sicker, beset by illnesses that our medical system isn’t addressing effectively.
  
  In the United States, six in 10 adults have at least one chronic condition, and four in 10 have two or more.
  
  Prior to COVID, American life expectancy averaged 78.8 years, while comparable countries averaged 82.6 years, creating a gap that equates to 1.25 billion fewer life years for Americans.
  
  The United States has the highest age-standardized cancer incidence rate across 204 countries, nearly double the next-highest rate.
  
  From 1990 to 2021, the United States saw an 88% increase in cancer.
  
  Asthma is far more common in the United States than in other parts of the world, including most of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
- The rise in chronic conditions is not limited to adults.
  
  Childhood is usually the healthiest period of life, yet as of 2022, 30 million (40.7%) United States children had at least one health condition like allergies, asthma, or autoimmune diseases.
  
  Autism now affects one in 36 children, a staggering increase from rates of one to four out of 10,000 children identified with the condition during the 1980s.
  
  18% of teens suffer from fatty liver disease, nearly 30% are prediabetic, and more than 40% are overweight or obese – these conditions were virtually unheard of in prior generations.
  
  The incidence of childhood cancer, while still rare, increased 0.8% per year since 1975—an over 40% increase over 45 years.
  
  Overmedication, particularly among children, is a growing concern. More than 3.4 million children are currently taking medication for ADD/ADHD and diagnoses continue to rise.
- Chronic disease has widespread effects, including on our military and our economy.
  
  77% of young adults do not qualify for military service without a waiver, primary due to being overweight, drug use, or mental and physical health issues.
  
  90% of America’s $4.5 trillion healthcare expenditure is directed at managing chronic and mental health conditions.
  
  The United States spends almost twice per capita what other wealthy countries spend on healthcare.
- Americans have lost trust in our health system, skeptical as to whether they are receiving honest answers about the causes of the country’s health crisis and how to improve it.
  
  Only a third of Americans trust the U.S. health system, a near-record low.
TAKING ON THE HEALTH CRISIS: President Trump is fulfilling his promise to tackle the health crisis facing America.
- President Trump pledged that upon returning to the White House he would establish a special Presidential Commission that’s “not bought and paid for by Big Pharma, and I will charge them with investigating what is causing the decades-long increase in chronic illnesses […] And then, I will ask them to publish recommendations for how every American child can have a safe and healthy childhood.”
- In his first term, President Trump lowered healthcare costs, provided more healthcare options, and ensured better care for the American people.
- President Trump has consistently championed initiatives aimed at improving the health and well-being of Americans. Select actions from the prior Trump Administration include:
  
  Passed Right To Try to give terminally ill patients access to lifesaving cures.
  
  Signed an executive order to fight kidney disease with more transplants and better treatment.
  
  Accelerated medical breakthroughs in genetic treatments for Sickle Cell disease.
  
  Declared the opioid crisis a nationwide public health emergency and signed the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act, the largest-ever legislative effort to address a drug crisis in our Nation’s history.
  
  Expanded access to telehealth, especially in rural and underserved communities.
MIL OSI USA News –
February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA News: Establishing the President’s Make America Healthy Again Commission

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, it is hereby ordered:

Section 1. Purpose. American life expectancy significantly lags behind other developed countries, with pre‑COVID-19 United States life expectancy averaging 78.8 years and comparable countries averaging 82.6 years. This equates to 1.25 billion fewer life years for the United States population. Six in 10 Americans have at least one chronic disease, and four in 10 have two or more chronic diseases. An estimated one in five United States adults lives with a mental illness.

These realities become even more painful when contrasted with nations around the globe. Across 204 countries and territories, the United States had the highest age-standardized incidence rate of cancer in 2021, nearly double the next-highest rate. Further, from 1990-2021, the United States experienced an 88 percent increase in cancer, the largest percentage increase of any country evaluated. In 2021, asthma was more than twice as common in the United States than most of Europe, Asia, or Africa. Autism spectrum disorders had the highest prevalence in high-income countries, including the United States, in 2021. Similarly, autoimmune diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis, and multiple sclerosis are more commonly diagnosed in high-income areas such as Europe and North America. Overall, the global comparison data demonstrates that the health of Americans is on an alarming trajectory that requires immediate action.

This concern applies urgently to America’s children. In 2022, an estimated 30 million children (40.7 percent) had at least one health condition, such as allergies, asthma, or an autoimmune disease. Autism spectrum disorder now affects 1 in 36 children in the United States — a staggering increase from rates of 1 to 4 out of 10,000 children identified with the condition during the 1980s. Eighteen percent of late adolescents and young adults have fatty liver disease, close to 30 percent of adolescents are prediabetic, and more than 40 percent of adolescents are overweight or obese.

These health burdens have continued to increase alongside the increased prescription of medication. For example, in the case of Attention Deficit Disorder/Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, over 3.4 million children are now on medication for the disorder — up from 3.2 million children in 2019-2020 — and the number of children being diagnosed with the condition continues to rise.

This poses a dire threat to the American people and our way of life. Seventy-seven percent of young adults do not qualify for the military based in large part on their health scores. Ninety percent of the Nation’s $4.5 trillion in annual healthcare expenditures is for people with chronic and mental health conditions. In short, Americans of all ages are becoming sicker, beset by illnesses that our medical system is not addressing effectively. These trends harm us, our economy, and our security.

To fully address the growing health crisis in America, we must re-direct our national focus, in the public and private sectors, toward understanding and drastically lowering chronic disease rates and ending childhood chronic disease. This includes fresh thinking on nutrition, physical activity, healthy lifestyles, over-reliance on medication and treatments, the effects of new technological habits, environmental impacts, and food and drug quality and safety. We must restore the integrity of the scientific process by protecting expert recommendations from inappropriate influence and increasing transparency regarding existing data. We must ensure our healthcare system promotes health rather than just managing disease.

Sec. 2. Policy. It shall be the policy of the Federal Government to aggressively combat the critical health challenges facing our citizens, including the rising rates of mental health disorders, obesity, diabetes, and other chronic diseases. To do so, executive departments and agencies (agencies) that address health or healthcare must focus on reversing chronic disease. Under this policy:

(a) all federally funded health research should empower Americans through transparency and open-source data, and should avoid or eliminate conflicts of interest that skew outcomes and perpetuate distrust;

(b) the National Institutes of Health and other health-related research funded by the Federal Government should prioritize gold-standard research on the root causes of why Americans are getting sick;

(c) agencies shall work with farmers to ensure that United States food is the healthiest, most abundant, and most affordable in the world; and

(d) agencies shall ensure the availability of expanded treatment options and the flexibility for health insurance coverage to provide benefits that support beneficial lifestyle changes and disease prevention.

Sec. 3. Establishment and Composition of the President’s Make America Healthy Again Commission. (a) There is hereby established the President’s Make America Healthy Again Commission (Commission), chaired by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (Chair), with the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy serving as Executive Director (Executive Director).

(b) In addition to the Chair and the Executive Director, the Commission shall include the following officials, or their designees:

(i)     the Secretary of Agriculture;

(ii)    the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development;

(iii) the Secretary of Education;

(iv)    the Secretary of Veterans Affairs;

(v)     the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency;

(vi)    the Director of the Office of Management and Budget;

(vii)   the Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy;

(viii) the Director of the National Economic Council;

(ix)    the Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers;

(x)     the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy;

(xi)   the Commissioner of Food and Drugs;

(xii)   the Director for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention;

(xiii) the Director of the National Institutes of Health; and

(xiv) other members of my Administration invited to participate, at the discretion of the Chair and the Executive Director.

Sec. 4. Fighting Childhood Chronic Disease. The initial mission of the Commission shall be to advise and assist the President on how best to exercise his authority to address the childhood chronic disease crisis. Therefore, the Commission shall:

(a) study the scope of the childhood chronic disease crisis and any potential contributing causes, including the American diet, absorption of toxic material, medical treatments, lifestyle, environmental factors, Government policies, food production techniques, electromagnetic radiation, and corporate influence or cronyism;

(b) advise and assist the President on informing the American people regarding the childhood chronic disease crisis, using transparent and clear facts; and

(c) provide to the President Government-wide recommendations on policy and strategy related to addressing the identified contributing causes of and ending the childhood chronic disease crisis.

Sec. 5. Initial Assessment and Strategy from the Make America Healthy Again Commission. (a) Make our Children Healthy Again Assessment. Within 100 days of the date of this order, the Commission shall submit to the President, through the Chair and the Executive Director, the Make Our Children Healthy Again Assessment, which shall:

(i)    identify and describe childhood chronic disease in America compared to other countries;

(ii)    assess the threat that potential over-utilization of medication, certain food ingredients, certain chemicals, and certain other exposures pose to children with respect to chronic inflammation or other established mechanisms of disease, using rigorous and transparent data, including international comparisons;

(iii) assess the prevalence of and threat posed by the prescription of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, stimulants, and weight-loss drugs;

(iv)    identify and report on best practices for preventing childhood health issues, including through proper nutrition and the promotion of healthy lifestyles;

(v)     evaluate the effectiveness of existing educational programs with regard to nutrition, physical activity, and mental health for children;

(vi)    identify and evaluate existing Federal programs and funding intended to prevent and treat childhood health issues for their scope and effectiveness;

(vii)   ensure transparency of all current data and unpublished analyses related to the childhood chronic disease crisis, consistent with applicable law;

(viii) evaluate the effectiveness of current Federal Government childhood health data and metrics, including those from the Federal Interagency Forum on Child and Family Statistics and the National Survey of Children’s Health;

(ix)   restore the integrity of science, including by eliminating undue industry influence, releasing findings and underlying data to the maximum extent permitted under applicable law, and increasing methodological rigor; and

(x)     establish a framework for transparency and ethics review in industry-funded projects.

(b) Make our Children Healthy Again Strategy. Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Commission shall submit to the President, through the Chair and the Executive Director, a Make Our Children Healthy Again Strategy (Strategy), based on the findings from the Make Our Children Healthy Again Assessment described in subsection (a) of this section. The Strategy shall address appropriately restructuring the Federal Government’s response to the childhood chronic disease crisis, including by ending Federal practices that exacerbate the health crisis or unsuccessfully attempt to address it, and by adding powerful new solutions that will end childhood chronic disease.

(c) The Chair may hold public hearings, meetings, roundtables, and similar events, as appropriate, and may receive expert input from leaders in public health and Government accountability.

Sec. 6. Additional Reports. (a) Following the submission to the President of the Strategy, and any final strategy reports thereafter, the Chair and the Executive Director shall recommend to the President updates to the Commission’s mission, including desired reports.

(b) The Commission shall not reconvene, following submission of the Strategy, until an updated mission is submitted to the President through the Executive Director.

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.

THE WHITE HOUSE,

    February 13, 2025.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Announces “Fair and Reciprocal Plan” on Trade
Source: The White House
THE “FAIR AND RECIPROCAL PLAN”: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed a Presidential Memorandum ordering the development of a comprehensive plan for restoring fairness in U.S. trade relationships and countering non-reciprocal trading arrangements.
- The “Fair and Reciprocal Plan” will seek to correct longstanding imbalances in international trade and ensure fairness across the board.
- Gone are the days of America being taken advantage of: this plan will put the American worker first, improve our competitiveness in every area of industry, reduce our trade deficit, and bolster our economic and national security.
AMERICA WILL NO LONGER TOLERATE UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICES: The United States is one of the most open economies in the world, yet our trading partners keep their markets closed to our exports. This lack of reciprocity is unfair and contributes to our large and persistent annual trade deficit.
- There are endless examples where our trading partners do not give the United States reciprocal treatment.
  
  The U.S. tariff on ethanol is a mere 2.5%. Yet Brazil charges the U.S. ethanol exports a tariff of 18%. As a result, in 2024, the U.S. imported over $200 million in ethanol from Brazil while the U.S. exported only $52 million in ethanol to Brazil.
  
  The U.S. average applied Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff on agricultural goods is 5%. But India’s average applied MFN tariff is 39%. India also charges a 100% tariff on U.S. motorcycles, while we only charge a 2.4% tariff on Indian motorcycles.
  
  The European Union can export all the shellfish it wants to America. But the EU bans shellfish exports from 48 of our states, despite committing in 2020 to expedite approvals for shellfish exports. As a result, in 2023, the U.S. imported $274 million in shellfish from the EU but exported only $38 million.
  
  The EU also imposes a 10% tariff on imported cars. Yet the U.S. only imposes a 2.5% tariff.
  
  A 2019 report found that across 132 countries and more than 600,000 product lines, United States exporters face higher tariffs more than two-thirds of the time.
- This lack of reciprocity is one source of America’s large and persistent annual trade deficit in goods: closed markets abroad reduce U.S. exports and open markets at home result in significant imports, both of which undercut American competitiveness.
  
  The United States has run a trade deficit of goods every year since 1975. In 2024, our trade deficit in goods exceeded $1 trillion.
  
  Thanks to the proliferation of non-reciprocal barriers in just the last few years, the U.S. now runs a trade deficit in agriculture, worth around $40 billion in 2024.
- Though America has no such thing, and only America should be allowed to tax American firms, trading partners hand American companies a bill for something called a digital service tax.
  
  Canada and France use these taxes to each collect over $500 million per year from American companies.
  
  Overall, these non-reciprocal taxes cost America’s firms over $2 billion per year.
  
  Reciprocal tariffs will bring back fairness and prosperity to the distorted international trade system and stop Americans from being taken advantage of.
THE ART OF THE INTERNATIONAL DEAL: President Trump continues to deliver on his mandate given to him by the American People to put America First when it comes to trade.
- As President Trump said in the Presidential Memorandum on American First Trade Policy on his first day in office, trade policy is a critical component of our economic security and national security.
- In his first term, President Trump successfully ended the outdated and unfair NAFTA, replacing it with the historic USMCA to deliver one of the largest wins for American workers.
- When our national security was threatened by a global oversupply of steel and aluminum, President Trump took swift action to protect America’s national security by implementing tariffs on imports of these goods.
- In response to China’s intellectual property theft, forced technology transfer, and other unreasonable behavior, President Trump acted with conviction to impose tariffs on imports from China, using that leverage to reach a historic bilateral economic agreement.
Just last week, President Trump leveraged tariffs to force Canada and Mexico to make long-overdue changes at our northern and southern borders, ensuring the safety and security of American citizens.
MIL OSI USA News –
February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 15th National Games athletics (marathon) test event to be held on February 23 (with photo)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

15th National Games athletics (marathon) test event to be held on February 23 (with photo)
15th National Games athletics (marathon) test event to be held on February 23 (with photo)
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The press conference on the 2025 Shenzhen-Hong Kong marathon and the 15th National Games (NG) athletics (marathon) test event was held in Shenzhen today (February 13). Deputy secretary-general of the Shenzhen Municipal Government and Executive Vice Chairperson of the Executive Committee for the 15th NG, the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities (NGD) and the 9th National Special Olympic Games (NSOG) in Shenzhen, Mr Kuang Bing, the Head of the National Games Coordination Office (Hong Kong) (NGCO) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, Mr Yeung Tak-keung; and other Shenzhen officials, attended the press conference to introduce details of the test event. The test event will be held on February 23. The marathon distance is 42.195 kilometres long, of which 21.841 kilometres are in the Hong Kong section. The race will start and finish at Shenzhen. It will start from the Shenzhen Bay Sports Center, enter Hong Kong via the Shenzhen Bay Port, pass through the Shenzhen Bay Bridge and Kong Sham Western Highway Viaduct, then turn back to the Shenzhen Bay Port through the same route and return to Shenzhen, and finally end at the Shenzhen Bay Sports Center. The test event will comprise men’s and women’s races, with women to start at 7am and men to set off at 7.30am. The athletes will enter the Hong Kong section upon completion of approximately 2 kilometres of race route. Both groups are expected to spend around two hours in Hong Kong. Speaking at the press conference, Mr Yeung said taking the opportunity of the 15th NG, Shenzhen and Hong Kong join hands together to hold this Shenzhen-Hong Kong marathon and the NG test event across the two places by making use of the Shenzhen Bay Bridge as the track for the first time, aiming to foster the sports exchange between the two places and promote the development of sports in the Greater Bay Area (GBA). Mr Yeung added that Shenzhen and Hong Kong have been in close contact and conducted multiple site inspections to make full preparation for the test event. He stressed that Hong Kong will fully co-operate with Shenzhen and is committed to ensuring the smooth running of the event, so as to get well prepared for the 15th NG to be held in November this year. Mr Kuang noted that the Shenzhen Bay Port connecting Shenzhen and Hong Kong has been selected as part of the race route of the 15th NG athletics (marathon) test event to be staged in Shenzhen, giving full play to the important role of the 15th NG in areas including promoting regional integration, integrated development of Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao, and enhancing national cohesion. The 2025 Shenzhen-Hong Kong marathon and the 15th NG athletics (marathon) test event is organised by the Shenzhen Municipal People’s Government, and hosted by the Executive Committee for the 15th NG, the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the 9th National Special Olympic Games in Shenzhen and the People’s Government of Nanshan District, Shenzhen, with the support of the NGCO, the Culture, Media, Tourism and Sports Bureau of Shenzhen Municipality, and the Authority of Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone of Shenzhen Municipality, as well as the Guangdong Athletics Association. The Chinese Athletics Association serves as an advisor, while the Hong Kong, China Association of Athletics Affiliates and a Shenzhen agency act as the executive units.

Ends/Thursday, February 13, 2025Issued at HKT 21:40

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected “space oil drug” worth about $8.4 million at airport (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected “space oil drug” worth about $8.4 million at airport (with photos)
Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected “space oil drug” worth about $8.4 million at airport (with photos)
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Hong Kong Customs detected a case involving etomidate (the main ingredient of “space oil drug”), a kind of Part 1 poison under the Pharmacy and Poisons Regulations at Hong Kong International Airport and seized about 8 kilograms of suspected “space oil drug” with an estimated market value of about $8.4 million, as well as two suspected alternative smoking products today (February 13). A male passenger, aged 22, arrived in Hong Kong from Bangkok, Thailand today. During customs clearance, Customs officers found the batch of suspected “space oil drug” concealed inside eight packages of fruit-flavored drink powder inside his check-in suitcase and the two suspected alternative smoking products from his carry-on backpack. The man was subsequently arrested. An investigation is ongoing. Customs will continue to apply a risk assessment approach and focus on selecting passengers from high-risk regions for clearance to combat transnational drug trafficking activities. Under the Import and Export Ordinance, importing prohibited articles not under and in accordance with an import licence or importing an alternative smoking product is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years. Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

Ends/Thursday, February 13, 2025Issued at HKT 21:35

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ExCo Non-official Members visit Kai Tak Sports Park (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The following is issued on behalf of the Executive Council Secretariat:

     Non-official Members of the Executive Council (ExCo Non-official Members) visited Kai Tak Sports Park today (February 13) to tour various venues and facilities in the park.

     ExCo Non-official Members accompanied by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law; the Permanent Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Ms Vivian Sum; and the Commissioner for Sports, Mr George Tsoi, were briefed by the staff on the design and planning of the Kai Tak Sports Park.

     ExCo Non-official Members toured the Kai Tak Stadium which could accommodate 50 000 spectators. They learned about facilities such as the retractable roof, and the flexible pitch surface, customisable staging and seating configurations that can be adapted based on the scale and nature of events. They also visited other venues, including the Central Square, the Kai Tak Arena and the Kai Tak Youth Sports Ground.

     ExCo Non-official Members commended on the comprehensive facilities of the Kai Tak Sports Park, which is the largest sports infrastructure project in Hong Kong’s history and can host international sports and entertainment mega events. Apart from the three major venues, the Sports Park also features various retail, catering as well as leisure and entertainment facilities. They hoped that after the opening of the Kai Tak Sports Park, Hong Kong will host more large-scale international events, attracting more tourists from around the globe and further promoting Hong Kong as an events capital and a popular destination for global travelers. This would further expand the mega event economy and strengthen impetus for economic growth in Hong Kong.

     ExCo Non-official Members were pleased to learn that relevant government departments and the Kai Tak Sports Park are preparing for the official opening in full steam. They wished for a successful opening ceremony.

     Joining the visit were ExCo Non-official Members Professor Arthur Li, Mr Ronny Tong, Dr Moses Cheng, Mrs Margaret Leung, Mr Chan Kin-por and Mr Stanley Ng.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India-EU agree to strengthen cooperation on smart and sustainable urbanization at the 4th India-EU Urban Forum on Smart & Sustainable Urbanisation

Source: Government of India (2)

Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 6:54PM by PIB Delhi

Building on the 2017 Joint Declaration on Partnership for Smart and Sustainable Urbanization, the 4th India-EU Urban Forum was held today in New Delhi, marking a significant milestone in the EU-India collaboration on sustainable urban development. This high-level event brought together officials and experts from India, the European Union (EU), and its Member States to discuss policies and best practices to work towards integrated approaches to sustainable urban development, reinforcing the EU’s Global Gateway strategy in India.

The forum explored transformative initiatives and innovative financing mechanisms to foster gender-inclusive, resilient, and sustainable urban development, focusing on three key themes: Urban Alliance and Integrated Approaches in Indian Cities, Promoting Innovation and Circularity at the City Level, and Inclusive Urban Mobility as a Social Enabler.

The EU-India collaboration is crucial, considering urban areas account for two-thirds of global energy consumption, emissions, and pollution. Since 2017, the India-EU collaboration has been instrumental in promoting sustainable cities models, public-private investments, climate action, and disaster risk reduction. The Team Europe has engaged with over 40 Indian municipalities, enhancing their understanding of climate-smart development, supporting urban mobility solutions, waste management, and climate action planning.

H.E. Hervé Delphin, Ambassador, Delegation of the European Union to India highlighted the importance of EU-India cooperation in urban development, stating, “Since 2017 the EU has been engaged in accompanying and supporting Indian Government’s planning the development of Indian cities. With the right policies in place, urbanization can be an enormous opportunity for sustainability. Smart and sustainable urbanisation has been at the core of our partnership: to improve the eco-design of cities; to improve waste disposal, to improve water recycling; to facilitate urban mobility with financing of metros.” He added that, “With over € 45 million [INR 400 crores] we have leveraged over € 1 billion [INR 9000 crores] of capital to support sustainable urbanisation. It is our commitment to pursue this effort in the period 2025-2027.”

Setting the tone for the forum, Shri Srinivas Katikithala, Secretary, Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, underscored India’s commitment to urban innovation, stating, “Indian cities are embracing smart solutions, building green infrastructure, and implementing inclusive policies to sustainable urbanisation for generations to come.” Emphasizing the significance of the India-EU partnership, he added, “India and Europe are collaboratively creating sustainable cities of the future, fostering innovation, resilience, and inclusive growth while addressing pressing climate challenges.”

The forum served as a crucial step in shaping a collaborative approach to India’s urban transformation, ensuring alignment with evolving challenges and opportunities. It reinforced the commitment of India and the EU to drive smart, sustainable, and inclusive urban development in line with MoHUA’s programs and missions.

****

JN/SK

(Release ID: 2102883) Visitor Counter : 57

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Indian Standards should be accorded top priority: Centre

Source: Government of India

Indian Standards should be accorded top priority: Centre

Bureau of Indian Standards organises Inter-Ministerial Meeting on Implementation of Standards – Bringing more products under Quality Control Orders (QCOs)

Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 6:39PM by PIB Delhi

Implementation of Indian Standards should be accorded top priority, said Smt. Nidhi Khare, Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India while chairing an inter-ministerial meeting on Implementation of Standards – Bringing more products under Quality Control Orders (QCOs) in New Delhi.

The Secretary emphasized on the role of QCOs in achieving the aim of ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat” considering its twin objectives of uplifting quality ecosystem in domestic market and curbing sub-standard imports. Referring to the speech by Hon’ble Prime Minister on 78^th Independence Day, wherein a thrust on Indian Standards has been envisioned to make Indian products stand out in the global market, she appealed to all the Ministries to prioritise Indian Standards.

The discussions during the meeting focused on the importance of Standards and its benefits through QCOs, which enforce mandatory compliance to standards for various products and play a vital role in protecting public health & safety and enhancing the competitiveness of industry, particularly Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The implementation of QCOs provides these businesses with a level playing field by ensuring that all market players meet the same quality standards. This initiative not only boosts the competitiveness of MSMEs in the domestic market, but also facilitates access to global markets, opening up new avenues for growth and exports.

The meeting witnessed participation from representatives of nearly 17 Union Ministries and Departments, including Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Textiles, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Ministry of Steel, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), Ministry of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries, Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals (DCPC), and Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI), among others.

The Department of Consumer Affairs briefed on the positive impact of the Quality Control Order (QCO) on the toys industry. The introduction and implementation of the QCO for Toys has led to remarkable improvements in both safety and quality standards for toys manufactured and sold in India.

The status of 628 products which are under consideration at the Ministries/Departments for bringing them under QCOs was also reviewed during the meeting. The discussions concluded with consensus for expediting the timelines for implementing QCOs for these products, which will further strengthen India’s commitment to improving product quality and impetus on Atma Nirbhar Bharat across different sectors.

Compliance with standards is voluntary unless made mandatory under Section 16 of the BIS Act, 2016. All ministries and departments of the Government are empowered in this regard. A detailed stakeholder consultation is carried out with industry before notifying and implementing QCOs.

Bureau of Indian Standards is the National Standards Body and is responsible for standardization, marking and quality certification of goods.

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Abhishek Dayal/Nihi Sharma

(Release ID: 2102873) Visitor Counter : 52

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: XR Creator Hackathon Showcases Next Generation of Extended Reality Innovators

Source: Government of India

XR Creator Hackathon Showcases Next Generation of Extended Reality Innovators

The event featured an engaging VR activity session showcasing a virtual experience of Chandrayaan and Gaming Warfare simulation, among others

Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 6:26PM by PIB Delhi

The XR Creator Hackathon’s Delhi chapter, hosted by Wavelaps and Bharat XR at 91 Springboard in Noida on 8^th February, marked another successful milestone in the WAVE Summit initiative. Over 80 enthusiastic participants explored the cutting-edge Extended Reality (XR) technologies. The event, supported by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting under the Create In India Challenge of WAVES, demonstrated Delhi’s vibrant tech community’s commitment to advancing India’s position in immersive technologies.

The Delhi meet up featured an exceptional lineup of industry experts like Ms. Chhavi Garg, Mr. Ankit Raghav and Mr. Siddharth Satyarthi, who conducted comprehensive sessions on AR and VR technologies. Participants received detailed insights into Unity and Unreal Engine, along with practical knowledge about developing AR/VR applications. The sessions highlighted various industrial use cases, providing attendees with valuable real-world perspectives.

A significant highlight of the event was the presence of the Joint Director at the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Mr. Ashutosh Mohle, who also serves as the nodal officer in WAVES. The official’s participation underscored the government’s commitment to nurturing India’s creator economy and supporting technological innovation.

The event featured an engaging VR activity session where participants experienced groundbreaking projects developed by fellow XR Creator Hackathon participants. These immersive demonstrations included a virtual experience of Chandrayaan, an innovative Gaming Warfare simulation, and an impressive VR tourism application, showcasing the diverse capabilities and creativity of India’s XR community.

Ms. Chhavi Garg, Co-founder of Arexa, and Bharat XR, co-organizer of XR Creator Hackathon, highlighted the growing potential of XR technology, stated that “XR technology is evolving rapidly and achieves its full potential when integrated with other technologies like web, apps, and AI/ML.”

“These initiatives by the Government and industry partners are creating a platform for students and professionals in the XR industry to create within India and showcase to the world,” said Ashutosh Kumar, CEO of Wavelaps, an industry association partner with WAVES and co-organizer of the XR Creator Hackathon.

The event garnered significant media attention, with representatives from DD News, All India Radio and various other media platforms covering the proceedings. The successful organization of engagement activities further enhanced participant interaction and learning experiences.

The Delhi meetup is part of the larger XR Creator Hackathon, which is co-organized by industry partner Wavelaps in collaboration with Bharat XR and XDG. The hackathon has already set a national record as India’s biggest VR/AR hackathon with over 2,200 registrations from more than 250 cities. The initiative has now entered Phase 3, where the top 40 teams are competing to secure positions in the final top five, showcasing innovative products across different themes.

About Wave Summit:

Wave Summit is a flagship initiative celebrating India’s advancement in creative technologies, fostering collaboration between creators, industry leaders, and government bodies to drive innovation in the immersive technology sector.

About XR Creator Hackathon:

The XR Creator Hackathon is a nationwide initiative driving innovation in Extended Reality technologies, organized by Wavelaps, XDG, and Bharat XR in association with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, bringing together creative minds from across India to shape the future of immersive technologies.

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Dharmendra Tewari/ Shatrunjay Kumar

(Release ID: 2102865) Visitor Counter : 35

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 14, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: STATUS OF PM EBUS SEWA SCHEME

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 6:23PM by PIB Delhi

7293 electric buses were approved for cities across 14 States and 4 Union Territories. An amount of ₹983.75 crore has been sanctioned for the development of power and civil depot infrastructure, out of which ₹563.34 crore has been sanctioned for power infrastructure in 66 cities and ₹420.40 crore for civil depot infrastructure in 64 cities. Deployment of electric buses is dependent upon readiness of associated depot infrastructure and fulfilment of the conditions precedent mentioned in PM-eBus Sewa Tender.

₹437.50 crore has been disbursed for the development of power and civil infrastructure in 7 States and 1 Union Territory in Financial Year 2024-25 as below:

Sr. No	State/UT	1st Tranche released (Rupees in Crore )	Year
1	Bihar	87.55	Financial Year 2024-25
2	Gujarat	9.06
3	Chandigarh	11.87
4	Assam	6.47
5	Chhattisgarh	30.18
6	Maharashtra	200.18
7	Odisha	47.72
8	Rajasthan	44.46
	Total	Rs. 437.50

As per the Scheme guidelines, 2 cities of Telangana namely, Warangal and Nizamabad are eligible for 100 and 50 e-buses respectively. However, these cities have not participated under the Scheme. Cities having population more than 40 Lakhs as per census 2011 including Hyderabad are not eligible under the scheme.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri. Tokhan Sahu, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

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Jane Namchu/Sushil Kumar

(Release ID: 2102861) Visitor Counter : 55

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 14, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES XR Creator Hackathon 2025

Source: Government of India (2)

Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 6:20PM by PIB Delhi

Pioneering Innovation in Augmented and Virtual Reality

Introduction

The WAVES XR Creator Hackathon (XCH) is a pioneering challenge that invites developers across India to explore new frontiers in augmented and virtual reality. Organised by Wavelaps, BharatXR, and XDG in partnership with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, XCH serves as a launchpad for cutting-edge innovations that redefine human interaction with technology. Participants will have the opportunity to present their visionary solutions at the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025, a premier industry gathering set to take place from 1-4 May at the Jio World Convention Centre & Jio World Gardens, Mumbai.

WAVES is a flagship event designed to accelerate India’s Media & Entertainment (M&E) industry, fostering collaboration among industry leaders, stakeholders, and innovators. A key highlight of the summit, the Create in India Challenges have garnered immense participation, with over 70,000 registrations and 31 challenges launched so far. By providing a dynamic platform for talent and technological advancement, WAVES aims to position India as a global hub for creativity and innovation in M&E.

Participation and Evaluation

The hackathon is open to teams comprising three or four members. Participants from diverse backgrounds, including designers, developers, and subject matter experts, are encouraged to apply. While no specific technical expertise is required, a strong interest in XR technologies and innovation is essential.

Projects will be assessed based on key parameters, including innovation, user experience, technical implementation, and potential impact. Judges will also consider feasibility, scalability, and the overall creativity and originality of the solution.

Themes

Healthcare, Fitness, and Well-being

This theme explores the integration of XR technologies into healthcare, focusing on improving patient care, advancing medical training, promoting fitness, and enhancing overall well-being. Participants will develop solutions that leverage immersive experiences for therapy, rehabilitation, mental health support, and virtual fitness programs.

Educational Transformation

With the power to revolutionize learning, XR enables interactive and experiential education. This theme encourages participants to create immersive solutions that enhance accessibility, engagement, and skill development in diverse educational settings, from classrooms to vocational training and corporate learning.

Immersive Tourism

XR can redefine how people explore and experience the world. This theme invites participants to develop innovative ways to bring destinations to life through virtual tourism, historical reconstructions, interactive cultural storytelling, and immersive travel experiences that bridge physical and digital realities.

Digital Media & Entertainment

The entertainment industry is evolving rapidly with XR-driven storytelling, gaming, and content consumption. This theme challenges participants to push creative boundaries by developing experiences that transform audience engagement, interactive narratives, virtual concerts, and next-generation media platforms.

eCommerce & Retail Transformation

As shopping experiences become increasingly digital, XR offers new ways to enhance customer engagement and personalization. This theme focuses on leveraging immersive technologies in eCommerce, retail, and real estate to create virtual showrooms, interactive shopping experiences, and enhanced brand interactions.

Key Milestones & Roadmap

The Phase 2 results have been announced, with the 40 teams advancing to Phase 3. Click here to see the results.

The final winners will have the opportunity to showcase their groundbreaking XR solutions at WAVES 2025.

Rewards & Recognition

The XR Creator Hackathon presents a total cash prize pool of ₹5 Lakh, complemented by a host of exclusive rewards. Winners will gain access to premium merchandise, sponsored trips to leading global XR events such as MIT Reality Hack and AWE Asia, and potential investment opportunities to bring their ideas to life. In addition, participants will be awarded Letters of Appreciation from government officials and industry leaders, acknowledging their contributions to the evolution of XR technology.

References:

Click here to download PDF

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Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Saurabh Kalia

(Release ID: 2102858) Visitor Counter : 14

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 14, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Support for Farmers to Reduce Post-Harvest Losses and Enhance Cold Chain Infrastructure

Source: Government of India (2)

Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 6:14PM by PIB Delhi

Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MOFPI) is implementing a central sector umbrella scheme Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY). Under component schemes of PMKSY, Ministry provides financial assistance up to ₹15 crore, @ 35% of eligible project cost for projects in general areas & @50% of eligible project cost for projects in Difficult Areas as well as for projects of SC/ST, FPOs & SHG, for setting up food processing industries. PMKSY is a comprehensive package of component schemes, viz. (i) Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure (Cold Chain scheme), (ii) Operation Greens (OG scheme)- Long term intervention, (iii) Creation of Infrastructure for Agro Processing Cluster (APC scheme), (iv) Creation/ Expansion of Food Processing & Preservation Capacities (CEFPPC scheme), (v) Creation of Backward and Forward Linkages (CBFL scheme) -discontinued w.e.f. 01.04.2021 and (vi) Mega Food Park scheme (MFP scheme) – discontinued w.e.f. 01.04.2021, which aims at creation of modern infrastructure with efficient supply chain management from farm gate to retail outlet. It provides a boost to the growth of food processing sector in the country, helps in providing better prices to farmers, creates employment opportunities especially in the rural areas, reduces wastage of agricultural produce, increases the processing levels and enhances the export of processed foods. The details of number of projects approved in component schemes of PMKSY are given at Annexure-I.

Ministry of Food Processing Industries has been implementing the Central Sector Scheme for Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure as one of the component of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana with the objective of reducing post-harvest losses of horticulture & non-horticulture produce and providing remunerative price to farmers for their produce. The scheme provides for financial assistance in the form of grant-in-aid @ 35% of eligible project cost for projects in General Areas and @ 50% of eligible project cost for projects in Difficult areas as well as for the projects of SC/ST, FPOs and SHGs, subject to the maximum of Rs.10 Crore per project for setting up integrated cold chain projects, including irradiation facilities, without any break from the farm gate to the consumer. The details of number of projects approved, completed and capacity created under Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure are at Annexure-II.

The food processing infrastructure adds to the income of the farmers by significantly reducing the wastage, better price realization, and by providing better forward and backward linkages. Cold Chain scheme is demand driven and proposals are invited by the Ministry from across the country through floating Expression of Interests (EoIs) from time to time based on availability of funds under the scheme.

ANNEXURE-I

Details of number of projects approved in component schemes of PMKSY
Sr.No.	Scheme	Approved Projects	Approved GIA (Rs in Crore)
1	Agro Processing Cluster	75	194.04
2	Creation of Backward and Forward Linkages	61	143.31
3	Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure	397	2108.02
4	Creation/ Expansion of Food Processing & Preservation Capacities	526	1083.84
5	Mega Food Park	41	1175.27
6	Operation Greens	45	42.41
	Total	1145	4746.89

ANNEXURE-II

Details of projects approved, completed and capacity created under Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure component of PMKSY
Sr. No.	Scheme	Approved Projects	Completed Projects	Processing Capacity (Lakh MT per annum)	Preservation Capacity (Lakh MT per annum)
1	Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure	397	286	112.35	25.39
Total		397	286	112.35	25.39

This information was given by the Minister of State for Food Processing Industries Shri Ravneet Singh in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

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STK

(Release ID: 2102853) Visitor Counter : 35

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 14, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Cold Storage and Supply Chain Infrastructure Under PMKSY

Source: Government of India (2)

Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 6:13PM by PIB Delhi

The Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) has been implementing Central Sector Umbrella Scheme – PMKSY since 2016-17 to create post-harvest infrastructure and processing facilities to boost the overall development of the food processing sector including reduction in post-harvest losses. The component schemes under PMKSY provide credit linked financial assistance (capital subsidy) in the form of grants-in-aid to entrepreneurs for setting up of food processing/preservation infrastructure which, inter-alia, includes cold storages and refrigerated vehicles to minimize post-harvest losses.

The Ministry of Food Processing Industries has been implementing schemes to boost food processing industries through infrastructure creation, grant of sales based incentives, capacity expansion, and other supporting measures. Under component schemes of PMKSY, as per the Scheme guidelines, consent to operate (CTO) issued by the concerned state Pollution board/Agency in respect of Water and Air, is mandatory for release of instalment of Grant-In-Aid/Subsidy to the approved projects. Further, Project Implementation Agency (PIA) has to comply with the requirements of Cold Chain infrastructure as per the directions of Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate change, Government of India with respect to use of Non-ODS (Non- Ozone depleting Substances) and low GWP (Low Global Warming Potential) refrigerants-based energy efficient cooling systems.

Under PMKSY component schemes, assistance can also be availed for Renewable/alternate energy technologies (solar, bio-mass, wind, etc.) for the project (Max. eligible permissible cost is Rs. 35 Lakh per project). Eligible entities from across the country may apply and avail the benefits.

National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship & Management -Thanjavur under Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) has made efforts to promote and develop sustainable packaging technology through development of biodegradable plastics, safe and environmental friendly packaging solutions from biopolymers such as poly lactic acid (PLA), starch, nano fibres etc

The Ministry of Food Processing Industries through implementation of PMKSY, helps in creation of modern infrastructure with efficient supply chain management from farm gate to retail outlet across the country. The scheme not only provide a boost to the growth of food processing sector in the country but also helps in, interalia, reducing wastage of agricultural produce, increasing the processing level and enhancing the export of the processed foods.

MoFPI is also implementing a Centrally Sponsored Scheme- PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme (PMFME) for providing technical, financial and business support for setting up/upgradation of 2 lakh Micro Food Processing Enterprises. Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme has been launched by MoFPI for the period 2021-22 to 2026-27 to create global food champions and improving the visibility of Indian food brands abroad.

Besides above, the allied Ministries/Departments and their Agencies such as Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, APEDA, MPEDA, etc. also extend enabling support through their respective schemes like Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture, Agriculture Export Promotion Plan Scheme, National Agriculture Infra Financing Facility, etc.

Steps to help the agri-products and the processed foods export sector include inter- alia financial assistance to exporters by Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) under the Scheme of quality control, setting up of in house quality control laboratory and implementation of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) in processing units, conducting awareness programme on quality assurance and quality management system and training programme on food safety norms, developing packaging for export of various food products and setting up of agri export zones in geographically contiguous areas in different states. In addition. Ministry of Food Processing Industries, under its Plan Scheme, also provides financial assistance to food processing industries for implementation of total quality management including ISO 9000, HACCP etc. and to establish Quality Control Laboratories in the Country

This information was given by the Minister of State for Food Processing Industries Shri Ravneet Singh in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

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STK

(Release ID: 2102852) Visitor Counter : 39

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Promotion of Food Processing in Rural and Backward Regions

Source: Government of India (2)

Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 6:12PM by PIB Delhi

In order to promote and ensure overall development of Food Processing Industries, Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) has been incentivizing setting up/expansion of related infrastructure through its Central Sector Scheme Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana (PMKSY), Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Food Processing Industry (PLISFPI) and Centrally sponsored PM Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme across the country including rural and backward regions. These schemes are not region or state specific but demand driven.

Under PMKSY, credit linked financial assistance (capital subsidy) is provided to entrepreneurs for setting up of food processing industries with total outlay of Rs 5520 Cr for 15th Finance Commission Cycle.

Under PMFME scheme, financial, technical and business support is provided for setting up / upgradation of micro food processing enterprises. The scheme is operational for a period of upto 2025-26 with an outlay of Rs.10,000 Crore.

PLISFPI is, inter alia, intended to support creation of global food manufacturing champions and support Indian brands of food products in international market. The Scheme is operational for a period from 2021-22 to 2026-27 with an outlay of Rs. 10,900 crores.

Ministry of Food Processing Industries, under its schemes, does not provide financial assistance for establishment of standalone cold storages facilities. However, it incentivizes creation of cold chain, preservation and value addition infrastructure as part of food processing projects under relevant component schemes of PMKSY.

These schemes aim towards creation of modern infrastructure with efficient supply chain management from farm gate to retail outlet which includes storage, transportation, value addition, etc., thereby help in providing better returns to farmers and creating huge employment opportunities, reducing wastage of agricultural produce and increasing the processing level.

Ministry extends financial support to prospective entrepreneurs for setting up of different kinds of food processing industries including bananas processing, as per respective scheme guidelines.

Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare is implementing Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) under which capital assistance is provided for various horticulture activities including Construction/Expansion/ Modernization of cold storages of capacity up to 5000 MT in the country on the basis of Annual Action Plan (AAP) received from States/UTs. AAPs are prepared by the States/UTs based on their requirement, capacity and availability of resources. The component of Cold Storage is demand/entrepreneur driven for which Government assistance in the form of credit linked back ended subsidy is available at the rate of 35% of the project cost in general areas and 50% of the project cost in hilly and scheduled areas through respective State Horticulture Missions. Under the scheme, assistance is available to individuals, Groups of farmers/ growers/ consumers, Partnership/ Proprietary firms, Self Help Groups (SHGs), Farmers Producer Organization (FPOs), Companies, Corporations, Cooperatives, Cooperative Marketing Federations, Local bodies, Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs) & Marketing Boards and State Governments.

Scheme also provides assistance for setting up of food processing units in North East and Himalayan States only;. For Food Processing Units credit linked back ended assistance @ 50% of eligible project cost, in North Eastern and Himalayan States of the maximum project cost of Rs. 800.00 lakh/unit is available.”

This information was given by the Minister of State for Food Processing Industries Shri Ravneet Singh in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

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STK

(Release ID: 2102851) Visitor Counter : 44

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President of India to visit Karnataka and Jharkhand from February 14 to 15

Source: Government of India (2)

Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 5:52PM by PIB Delhi

The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu will visit Karnataka and Jharkhand from February 14 to 15, 2025.

On February 14, the President will grace the inaugural session of the 10^th International Women’s Conference being organised by the Art of Living at Bengaluru.

On February 15, the President will address the platinum jubilee celebration of the BIT Mesra at Ranchi.

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MJPS/SR/SKS

(Release ID: 2102839) Visitor Counter : 84

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Initiatives taken by the Government to position India as a Premier Global Tourist Destination
Source: Government of India

Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 5:33PM by PIB Delhi

In order to position India as a premier global tourist destination, boost & promote tourism in India during Amrit Kaal enhancing infrastructure, and delivering an improved travel experience for domestic and international visitors, Ministry of Tourism has taken the following initiatives: –
- The Ministry of Tourism undertakes several promotional activities in potential international & domestic markets to promote various tourism destinations and products of the country in holistic manner. This includes release of media campaigns, social media promotions, webinars, participation & support to promotional events, dissemination of information and engagement through website etc. In addition, Indian Missions overseas also undertake various promotional activities to attract more global travellers to various tourist destinations of the country.
- Ministry of Tourism launched the Incredible India Content Hub on the revamped Incredible India digital portal which is a comprehensive digital repository, featuring a 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 Ministry of Tourism under the schemes of ‘Swadesh Darshan’, National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD)’ and ‘Assistance to Central Agencies for Tourism Infrastructure Development’ provides financial assistance to State Governments/Union Territory Administrations/Central Agencies for the development of tourism related infrastructure and facilities at various tourism destinations in the country.
- Ministry has revamped Swadesh Darshan Scheme as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0) with the objective to develop sustainable and responsible destinations following a destination centric approach.
- Under ‘Scheme for Special Assistance to States/Union Territories for Capital Investment (SASCI)’ Government of India has recently sanctioned 40 Projects in the country for Rs.3295.76 Crore.
- Ministry of Tourism has been providing financial assistance to State Governments/UT Administrations for organising fairs/festivals and tourism related events.
- Ministry is conducting Programmes under the ‘Capacity Building for Service Providers’ (CBSP) Scheme to train and upgrade manpower to provide better service standards.
- To enhance the overall experience of tourists by making available a pool of local, trained professionals at tourist sites across the country, Ministry launched the Incredible India Tourist Facilitator (IITF) Certification Programme – a Pan-India online learning program.
- With a view to provide enhanced amenities and facilities for tourists, projects for joint development of tourist amenities at 22 railway stations by the Ministry of Railways (MoR) and Ministry of Tourism were sanctioned on cost sharing basis.
- Ministry of Tourism works closely with Ministry of Road Transport and Highways/National Highway Authority of India for improving road connectivity to tourist destinations, iconic sites and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Ministry of Tourism also coordinates with Ministry of Civil Aviation for improving the air connectivity to important tourist destination and to lesser known/new destinations with high potential.
This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

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Sunil Kumar Tiwari

Tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

(Release ID: 2102824) Visitor Counter : 56

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
February 14, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government sanctioned 40 projects in 23 States for ₹ 3295.76 Crore in Financial Year 2024-25 under SASCI Scheme

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 5:29PM by PIB Delhi

Government of India sanctioned 40 projects in 23 States for ₹ 3295.76 Crore in Financial Year 2024-25 under ‘Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) – Development of Iconic Tourist Centres to Global Scale’ Scheme with the objective to comprehensively develop iconic tourist centres in the country, branding and marketing them at global scale. Details of the sanctioned projects under this scheme is Annexed.

Salient features of this endeavour include developing end to end tourist experience, funding support to the shortlisted proposals, strengthening all points of the tourist value chain, harnessing quality expertise for design and development, sustainable operations and maintenance etc. The projects have been identified based on the project proposals submitted by the concerned State Governments, its examination on the prescribed parameters such as connectivity to the site, tourism eco-system, carrying capacity, sustainability measures, sustainable operation and management, project impact and value created, tourism marketing plans for Domestic and Inbound (Global) Markets etc. The project will be implemented and managed by the concerned State Governments in a sustainable manner.

Ministry of Tourism as part of its ongoing initiative promotes various tourism destinations and products of the country holistically in domestic and international markets under brand line of ‘Incredible India’ through various promotional initiatives such as website, social media promotions, participation in events, assistance to State Governments for organizing fairs and festivals, etc. In addition, promotion of destinations and products is also done by the respective State Governments/ UT Administrations.

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

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ANNEXURE

List of Projects Sanctioned Under ‘Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) – Development of Iconic Tourist Centres to Global Scale’:-

S.No.	State	Project Name	Cost (₹ in Crore)
	Andhra Pradesh	1. Gandikota – Enriching the Fort and Gorge Experience	77.91
	Andhra Pradesh	2. Akhanda Godavari: (Havelock Bridge & Pushkar Ghat), Rajamahendravaram	94.44
	Arunachal Pradesh	3. Siang Adventure & Eco-Retreat, Pasighat	46.48
	Assam	4. Assam State Zoo Cum Botanical Garden, Guwahati	97.12
	Assam	5. Beautification of Rang Ghar at Sivasagar	94.76
	Bihar	6. Development of Matsyagandha Lake, Saharsa	97.61
	Bihar	7. Karamchat Eco-Tourism and Adventure Hub	49.51
	Chhattisgarh	8. Development of Chitrotpala Film City	95.79
	Chhattisgarh	9. Development of Tribal & Cultural Convention Centre	51.87
	Goa	10. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum, Ponda	97.46
	Goa	11. Proposed Townsquare, Povorim	90.74
	Gujarat	12. Ecotourism Destination at Kerly (Mokarsagar), Porbandar	99.50
	Gujarat	13. Tented City and Convention Centre, Dhordo	51.56
	Jharkhand	14. Eco-Tourism Development of Tilaiyya, Koderma	34.87
	Karnataka	15. Ecotourism & Cultural Hub at Roerich and Devika Rani Estate Tataguni, Bengaluru	99.17
	Karnataka	16. Development of Savadatti Yallammagudda, Belgavi	100.00
	Kerala	17. Ashtamudi Biodiversity and Eco-recreational Hub, Kollam	59.71
	Kerala	18. Sargaalaya: Global Gateway to Malabar’s Cultural Crucible	95.34
	Madhya Pradesh	19. Orchha A Medieval Splendour	99.92
	Madhya Pradesh	20. International Convention Centre for MICE in Bhopal	99.38
	Maharashtra	21. Ex-INS Guldar Underwater Museum, Artificial Reef, and Submarine Tourism, Sindhudurg	46.91
	Maharashtra	22. Development of “RAM-KAL PATH” at Nashik	99.14
	Manipur	23. Loktak Lake Experience	89.48
	Meghalaya	24. MICE Infrastructure at Mawkhanu, Shillong	99.27
	Meghalaya	25. Re-development of Umiam Lake, Shillong	99.27
	Odisha	26. Development of Hirakud	99.90
	Odisha	27. Development of Satkosia	99.99
	Punjab	28. Development of Heritage Street, SBS Nagar	53.45
	Rajasthan	29. Development at Amber-Nahargarh and surrounding Area, Jaipur	49.31
	Rajasthan	30. Development at JalMahal, Jaipur	96.61
	Sikkim	31. Skywalk, Bhaleydhunga, Yangang, Namchi	97.37
	Sikkim	32. Border Experience, Nathula	68.19
	Tamil Nadu	33. Nandavanam Heritage Park at Mamallapuram	99.67
	Tamil Nadu	34. Garden of flowers at Devala, Ooty	70.23
	Telangana	35. Ramappa Region Sustainable Tourism Circuit	73.74
	Telangana	36. Somasilla Wellness & Spiritual Retreat Nallamala	68.10
	Tripura	37. 51 Shakti Peethas Park at Banduar, Gomati	97.70
	Uttar Pradesh	38. Development of Bateshwar, District- Agra	74.05
	Uttar Pradesh	39. Integrated Buddhist Tourism Development, Shrawasti	80.24
	Uttarakhand	40. Iconic City Rishikesh: Rafting Base Station	100.00
TOTAL			3,295.76

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Sunil Kumar Tiwari

tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

(Release ID: 2102809) Visitor Counter : 55

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 14, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Transport Department alerts public to fraudulent SMS messages purported to be from HKeToll

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Transport Department alerts public to fraudulent SMS messages purported to be from HKeToll
Transport Department alerts public to fraudulent SMS messages purported to be from HKeToll
******************************************************************************************

The Transport Department (TD) today (February 14) alerted members of the public to fraudulent SMS messages purported to be issued by the HKeToll and provided a hyperlink with the domain name (http[:]//hketoll.taobaocainiao.top[/]ZA17vEtuG6) that lead to a fake HKeToll website, which seeks to deceive recipients into making payments and obtain their credit card information. The TD clarifies that the SMS messages were not issued by the HKeToll and has referred the case to the Police for follow-up. Members of the public are reminded that the HKeToll will not send SMS messages or emails to vehicle owners with hyperlinks which direct them to the websites to carry out transactions. If a vehicle owner wishes to pay an outstanding toll online, they must log in to the HKeToll website (hketoll.gov.hk) or mobile app. Members of the public should stay alert when receiving unidentified messages. They should not visit suspicious websites and disclose any personal information. Anyone who has provided his or her personal information to the websites concerned should contact the Police. For enquiries about the HKeToll, please call 3853 7333.

Ends/Thursday, February 13, 2025Issued at HKT 20:13

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s SPHEREx Space Telescope Will Seek Life’s Ingredients

Source: NASA

Where is all the water that may form oceans on distant planets and moons? The SPHEREx astrophysics mission will search the galaxy and take stock.
Every living organism on Earth needs water to survive, so scientists searching for life outside our solar system, are often guided by the phrase “follow the water.” Scheduled to launch no earlier than Thursday, Feb. 27, NASA’s SPHEREx (Spectro-Photometer for the History of the Universe, Epoch of Reionization, and Ices Explorer) mission will help in that quest.
After its ride aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 from Vandenberg Space Force base in California, the observatory will search for water, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and other key ingredients for life frozen on the surface of interstellar dust grains in the clouds of gas and dust where planets and stars eventually form.
While there are no oceans or lakes floating freely in space, scientists think these reservoirs of ice, bound to small dust grains, are where most of the water in our universe forms and resides. Additionally, the water in Earth’s oceans as well as those of other planets and moons in our galaxy likely originated in such locations.

The mission will focus on massive regions of gas and dust called molecular clouds. Within those, SPHEREx will also look at some newly formed stars and the disks of material around them from which new planets are born.
Although space telescopes such as NASA’s James Webb and retired Spitzer have detected water, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and other compounds in hundreds of targets, the SPHEREx observatory is the first to be uniquely equipped to conduct a large-scale survey of the galaxy in search of water ice and other frozen compounds.

Rather than taking 2D images of a target like a star, SPHEREx will gather 3D data along its line of sight. That enables scientists to see the amount of ice present in a molecular cloud and observe how the composition of the ices throughout the cloud changes in different environments.
By making more than 9 million of these line-of-sight observations and creating the largest-ever survey of these materials, the mission will help scientists better understand how these compounds form on dust grains and how different environments can influence their abundance.
Tip of the Iceberg
It makes sense that the composition of planets and stars would reflect the molecular clouds they formed in. However, researchers are still working to confirm the specifics of the planet formation process, and the universe doesn’t always match scientists’ expectations.
For example, a NASA mission launched in 1998, the Submillimeter Wave Astronomy Satellite (SWAS), surveyed the galaxy for water in gas form — including in molecular clouds — but found far less than expected.

“This puzzled us for a while,” said Gary Melnick, a senior astronomer at the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian and a member of the SPHEREx science team. “We eventually realized that SWAS had detected gaseous water in thin layers near the surface of molecular clouds, suggesting that there might be a lot more water inside the clouds, locked up as ice.”
The mission team’s hypothesis also made sense because SWAS detected less oxygen gas (two oxygen atoms bound together) than expected. They concluded that the oxygen atoms were sticking to interstellar dust grains, and were then joined by hydrogen atoms, forming water. Later research confirmed this. What’s more, the clouds shield molecules from cosmic radiation that would otherwise break those compounds apart. As a result, water ice and other materials stored deep in a cloud’s interior are protected.
As starlight passes through a molecular cloud, molecules like water and carbon dioxide block certain wavelengths of light, creating a distinct signature that SPHEREx and other missions like Webb can identify using a technique called absorption spectroscopy.
In addition to providing a more detailed accounting of the abundance of these frozen compounds, SPHEREx will help researchers answer questions including how deep into molecular clouds ice begins to form, how the abundance of water and other ices changes with the density of a molecular cloud, and how that abundance changes once a star forms.
Powerful Partnerships
As a survey telescope, SPHEREx is designed to study large portions of the sky relatively quickly, and its results can be used in conjunction with data from targeted telescopes like Webb, which observe a significantly smaller area but can see their targets in greater detail.
“If SPHEREx discovers a particularly intriguing location, Webb can study that target with higher spectral resolving power and in wavelengths that SPHEREx cannot detect,” said Melnick. “These two telescopes could form a highly effective partnership.”
More About SPHEREx
SPHEREx is managed by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California for the Astrophysics Division within the Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. BAE Systems (formerly Ball Aerospace) built the telescope and the spacecraft bus. The science analysis of the SPHEREx data will be conducted by a team of scientists located at 10 institutions in the U.S., two in South Korea, and one in Taiwan. Data will be processed and archived at IPAC at Caltech, which manages JPL for NASA. The mission principal investigator is based at Caltech with a joint JPL appointment. The SPHEREx dataset will be publicly available at the NASA/IPAC Infrared Science Archive.
For more information about the SPHEREx mission visit:
https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/missions/spherex/

News Media Contact
Calla CofieldJet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif.626-808-2469calla.e.cofield@jpl.nasa.gov
2025-020

MIL OSI USA News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office and HSI Collaborate to Charge Mexican National with Stolen Firearm Possession

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

ALBUQUERQUE – A Mexican national in the country illegally is facing federal charges after allegedly possessing a stolen firearm during a traffic stop.

According to court documents, the charge stems from a traffic stop conducted on January 9, 2025, on Interstate 25 in Sandoval County. During the stop, Jose Adan Gonzalez-Torres, a passenger in the vehicle, admitted to having a firearm in the car. A subsequent search revealed a firearm in the center console. Further investigation determined that the firearm had been reported stolen.

In the course of the investigation, Gonzalez admitted to law enforcement that he is unlawfully present in the United States.

Gonzalez will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been set. If convicted, Gonzalez faces 15 years in prison.

U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Jason T. Stevens, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) El Paso, made the announcement today.

Homeland Security Investigations investigated this case with assistance from the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Sandoval County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Jack Burkhead is prosecuting the case.

MIL Security OSI –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI NGOs: UK/China: ‘Red lines, not red carpet’ needed as Lammy hosts top China diplomat in London

Source: Amnesty International –

‘This is an opportunity to show that the UK will not allow China to buy its silence over human rights concerns’ – Felix Jakens

Ahead of the highly anticipated visit from China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who is due to visit Britain today (Thursday 13 February) to hold talks with his British counterpart David Lammy in what is being seen as a sign that relations between the countries are ‘normalising’, Felix Jakens, Amnesty’s UK Head of Campaigns, said:

“With the prospect of resuming a strategic dialogue with China for the first time since 2018, the pursuit of trade must not inhibit frank conversations on human rights, which must be central to any diplomatic engagement.

“Talk of normalising relations with China, risks a defacto endorsement of the wholly abnormal industrial-scale abuse of human rights Beijing is overseeing across China, Hong Kong and beyond.

“David Lammy should be drawing serious red lines, rather than rolling out the red carpet when Wang Yi visits this week.

“We need to hear a public and strong condemnation of the brutal suppression of human rights activists, which is not only limited to mainland China or Hong Kong but has also spread to the UK through the transnational targeting of students and activists who speak out here. Hong Kong’s recent issuing of ‘Wild West’-style bounties on activists’ heads in the UK indicates the authorities believe they can intimidate and silence their critics overseas with impunity. It is completely unacceptable to see this sort of international witch hunt on UK soil and the most high-level visit in years must be a time to publicly vocalise UK Government outrage.

“The Foreign Secretary also needs to forcefully challenge the Chinese government over its systematic, industrial-scale repression of ethnic minorities in Xinjiang and Tibet, including subjecting people to forced labour.

“Mr Lammy must also demand the immediate release of Hong Kong and Chinese prisoners of conscience, including British national Jimmy Lai, human rights lawyers Chow Hang-tung and Ding Jiaxi, as well as long-held Uighur economist Ilham Tohti.

“This is an opportunity to show that the UK will not allow China to buy its silence over human rights concerns.”

Long arm of Chinese state repression

The Chinese authorities routinely target peaceful critics via pervasive online censorship, arbitrary arrest, detention and torture. Human rights defenders, pro-democracy activists and religious leaders and practitioners have been among those subjected to systematic persecution. The widespread repression of ethnic minorities in Xinjiang and Tibet has continued despite significant international criticism.

In Hong Kong, journalists, broadcasters and book publishers have been among those prosecuted and imprisoned under the territory’s notorious National Security Law and other repressive legislation, while civil society organisations both in Hong Kong and abroad have faced criminal charges or harassment for their legitimate activities. The long arm of Chinese state repression has meant that Chinese and Hong Kong communities in the UK, other parts of Europe and North America have all suffered various kinds of threats and intimidation, part of a sinister pattern of “transnational repression”.

On 24 December, Hong Kong police announced a third round of HK$1million (about £105,000) bounties for information that would lead to the arrest of six democracy advocates based overseas whom they accused of national security crimes. To date, 19 Hong Kong overseas activists have been targeted, most of whom live in the UK.

MIL OSI NGO –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI NGOs: Bangladesh: Critical UN report must spur accountability and justice

Source: Amnesty International –

Responding to the UN Fact-Finding report published yesterday which finds reasonable grounds to believe Bangladesh’s former Government and security apparatus systematically engaged in a range of serious human rights violations raising concerns as to crimes against humanity, Smriti Singh, regional director for South Asia at Amnesty International, said:

“This 105-page UN report lays bare the scale and severity of the human rights violations committed by the regime led by the ex-prime minister Sheikh Hasina to repress anti-government protests in Bangladesh. It echoes and expands on the findings by Amnesty International and other human rights organizations from last year. While the report is an important attempt to address serious violations in the country, the UN should not stop its efforts here. Continued efforts for investigation and fact-finding by UN human rights mechanisms are critical to support accountability and justice for victims in Bangladesh.

“The Interim Government must take seriously the UN recommendation to consider referring to the International Criminal Court all the incidents which took place between 1 July to 15 August in Bangladesh. The government must also implement other immediate and longer-term recommendations in the report including guarantees of fair trial and due process in ongoing investigations, security and justice sector reform and repeal of draconian laws that restrict civic space, among others. However, to ensure lasting truth, justice, accountability, reparations and guarantees of non-recurrence, the engagement with UN mechanisms and bodies must continue beyond this. Any failure to do so would be to turn our backs on the victims and survivors.”

To ensure lasting truth, justice, accountability, reparations and guarantees of non-recurrence, the engagement with UN mechanisms and bodies must continue beyond this. Any failure to do so would be to turn our backs on the victims and survivors.

Smriti Singh, regional director for South Asia at Amnesty International

Background

On 12 February, the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) published their report based on an independent fact-finding inquiry into alleged human rights violations and abuses that occurred during widespread protests in Bangladesh between 1 July and 15 August 2024.

Last year, Amnesty International had documented the violence and repression in Bangladesh in response to the students-led quota-reform protests across the country. We published a video verification series documenting evidence of the unlawful use of both lethal and less-lethal force against student protesters.

MIL OSI NGO –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Experts of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women Praise Sri Lanka’s Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security, Ask about Legislation on Child Marriage and Domestic Violence

Source: United Nations – Geneva

The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women today concluded its consideration of the ninth periodic report of Sri Lanka, with Committee Experts praising the State’s national action plan on women, peace and security, and raising questions about the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act, which permitted child marriage, and domestic violence.

One Committee Expert said the national action plan on women, peace and security was a positive step in addressing the needs of women in conflict. Were there plans to conduct a mid-term assessment of the plan?

Yamila González Ferrer, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur for Sri Lanka, said that the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act was amended in 2022, but there were still concerns about elements of the law. Were there plans to further amend the law, including to ban child marriage?

Another Committee Expert said at least one in five women in Sri Lanka had experienced violence from an intimate partner, and many did not report it. What was the timeline for adopting proposed amendments to the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act? What protections were provided to women victims of violence?

Introducing the report, Saroja Savitri Paulraj, Minister of Women and Child Affairs of Sri Lanka and head of the delegation, said the Sri Lankan Government was committed to upholding the rights of women and girls and advancing gender equality. This review held particular significance, as it was the country’s first engagement with an international human rights treaty body since the presidential and parliamentary elections of 2024.

Ms. Paulraj said Sri Lanka’s first national action plan for women, peace and security for 2023 to 2027 had been launched. The Government was committed to realising the full promise of the women, peace and security agenda. The delegation added that the action plan addressed displacement, and women’s protection, security and participation in peacebuilding. The State party was planning to conduct a review of the implementation of the action plan.

On the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act, the delegation said the Government had conducted consultations regarding its amendment. It was trying to strike a balance between women’s and children’s rights and cultural rights. Ms. Paulraj added that the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus had suggested setting a minimum age for marriage and establishing a multi sectoral committee to address this issue.

On domestic violence, the delegation said the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act had been amended; the amended Act would come into force this year. The Assistance to Victims Act underlined the rights of victims to be treated with respect and privacy, and to request legal, medical and psychosocial assistance. A toll-free hotline operated by female officers was available for reporting domestic violence.

In closing remarks, Ms. Paulraj said the Sri Lankan Government had undertaken significant efforts to strengthen women’s empowerment. It was fully committed to addressing the issues that women faced in the State and would continue to engage with the Committee constructively.

In her concluding remarks, Nahla Haidar, Committee Chair, said that the State party had shared candidly and transparently the progress made and difficulties it was facing. She commended the State party for its efforts and encouraged it to implement the Committee’s recommendations for the benefit of all Sri Lankan women and girls.

The delegation of Sri Lanka consisted of representatives from the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs; Attorney General’s Department; Sri Lanka Police; Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism; and the Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations Office at Geneva.

The Committee will issue the concluding observations on the report of Sri Lanka at the end of its ninetieth session on 21 February. All documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage. Meeting summary releases can be found here. The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

The Committee will next meet at 10 a.m. on Friday, 14 February to consider the sixth periodic report of Liechtenstein (CEDAW/C/LIE/6).

Report

The Committee has before it the ninth periodic report of Sri Lanka (CEDAW/C/LKA/9).

Presentation of Report

SAROJA SAVITRI PAULRAJ, Minister of Women and Child Affairs of Sri Lanka and head of the delegation, said the Sri Lankan Government was committed to upholding the rights of women and girls and advancing gender equality. This review held particular significance, as it was the country’s first engagement with an international human rights treaty body since the presidential and parliamentary elections of 2024 and the formation of the new Government in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka was proud to have a member from Sri Lanka in the Committee, Rangita de Silva de Alwis. Her contribution to this Committee’s work was highly appreciated.

Ms. Paulraj said she was the first Tamil Member of Parliament elected from the Southern Province, which had a predominantly Sinhala community. Women’s representation in Sri Lanka’s Parliament had risen from 4.8 to 9.7 per cent with the election of 22 female members in November 2024. These women included individuals from the working class and marginalised communities, including, for the first time in history, two women from the Malayaga community.

Sri Lanka was proud to have its third female Prime Minister, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya. One of the Government’s key electoral pledges had been to ensure the equal representation of women in Government. Appointing a woman to the post of Deputy Chairman of Committees of Parliament for the first time was another milestone. The Sri Lankan judiciary also had a high percentage of women at senior levels. Thirty-two per cent of Ambassadors in Sri Lanka were women. Across all levels of Sri Lanka’s diplomatic service, women were in the majority. During the reporting period, Sri Lanka Police appointed four female Deputy Inspectors General of Police and the first female Director of the Criminal Investigation Department. Many women had been appointed to the Government’s decision-making councils, commissions and boards.

The Government had made a policy commitment to reduce the burden of unpaid care work for women. Women played a crucial role in driving the economy in Sri Lanka, with their contributions being essential in generating income across key sectors. Women made up most of the workforce in industries such as garments, plantations, and as migrant workers. For the first time, a woman had been appointed as the Chairperson of the Sri Lankan Apparel Exporters Association in the corporate sector.

The Government had introduced several initiatives to support economic recovery and empower citizens, particularly focusing on women and youth. One notable proposal was the establishment of a new development bank aimed at providing new entrepreneurs, including rural and disadvantaged women, with loans without the requirement for collateral. The Sri Lanka Women’s Bureau was the national mechanism implementing projects and programmes for the social and economic development of women from national to grassroots level.

The Women Empowerment Act of 2024 introduced mechanisms to give effect to the obligations undertaken by Sri Lanka in relation to the Convention, and defined women’s right to equality and non-discrimination. A key component of this Act was to establish an independent National Commission on Women, and to provide provisions for the appointment of a Woman Ombudsperson on ensuring women’s rights and setting up a National Fund for Women.

The Land Development (Amendment) Act of 2022 had brought in provisions to ensure gender equality and non-discrimination in land inheritance. The Women’s Parliamentary Caucus had suggested setting a minimum age for marriage and establishing a multi sectoral committee to address this issue.

Addressing sexual and gender-based violence was a key priority for the Government. It would establish mechanisms to prioritise and expedite the resolution of cases involving sexual offences against women and minors, ensuring that victims received timely redress. The progress review of the first national action plan to address sexual and gender-based violence for the period 2016-2020 found a 70 per cent level of implementation. Thereafter, a second plan for the period 2024-2028 was launched in 2024. This plan focused on prevention programmes in schools, places of work, and community-based initiatives, as well as programmes on engaging men to address gender-based violence.

Children and Women Desks had been newly established in police stations, and the Government would also double the allocation for 2025 for the establishment and expansion of shelter homes for women.

Sri Lanka’s first national action plan for women, peace and security for 2023 to 2027 had been launched. The action plan was developed through an inclusive process of broad consultations with survivors of conflict and vulnerable women and children. The Government was committed to realising the full promise of the women, peace and security agenda.

Technology-facilitated gender-based violence was another pressing challenge that Sri Lanka was facing. The Government was working to implement stronger laws and policies to protect individuals from privacy violations, online stalking, and hate speech. Sri Lanka was a party to the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime, which focused on addressing online and technology-facilitated violence against women. The Online Safety Act of 2024 aimed to protect the vulnerable sections of the society in line with international standards.

Sri Lanka was committed to upholding human rights, gender equality, and social justice. Its foremost priority was to ensure that no one was left behind. Sri Lankan women had been active participants in the country’s development agenda and the Government was committed to addressing existing challenges and supporting women to carry out this role.

Questions by Committee Experts

YAMILA GONZÁLEZ FERRER, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur for Sri Lanka, said that Sri Lanka’s Constitution established that all persons had the right to live free from discrimination. However, this was not yet a reality. Sri Lanka was in the process of drafting a new Constitution. Were there plans to incorporate the rights of women and girls into the Constitution? Proposals had been made to reform criminal laws to remove discriminatory provisions affecting women related to marriage. What progress had been made in this regard?

The national human rights institution had “A” status under the Paris Principles. What actions had it implemented to protect women’s rights? Were its complaints mechanisms effective? Were there plans to update the national action plan on human rights? There were several obstacles limiting the capacity of the judicial system to protect women affected by sexual and gender-based violence and domestic violence. How was the State party strengthening the judiciary and reducing trial times?

The death penalty was legal in Sri Lanka. Although there was a de facto moratorium in place, courts continued to sentence women to death, often not considering mitigating circumstances such as gender-based violence. Could the State party provide data on women sentenced to death? Had the Convention been invoked before the courts?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said that the Constitution guaranteed the right to non-discrimination. Violations of fundamental rights could be brought before the Supreme Court, which had drawn reference to the Convention in some of its determinations. In one case, it had held that equality could be seriously impaired when women were subjected to workplace gender-based violence. The Women’s Commission was mandated to introduce mechanisms to give effect to Convention obligations.

There were several mechanisms in place facilitating access to justice. The Legal Commission of Sri Lanka provided free legal services to citizens who had incomes of less than 40,000 rupees. This threshold did not apply for cases of a domestic nature. The Human Rights Commission and the Women’s Commission were empowered to receive complaints related to human rights violations directly from victims, investigate the matter, and make recommendations. Financial assistance and counselling were provided to women victims of violence. The Prevention of Domestic Violence Act allowed for victims to make complaints directly to the police.

Sri Lanka had maintained a moratorium on the death penalty since 1978. The Supreme Court had intervened in the past to prevent the death penalty from being carried out. A recent amendment to the Penal Code increased the minimum age from which the death penalty could be applied from 16 to 18 years.

Many efforts had been made to implement the Committee’s previous concluding observations. The Government had established a coordinating committee to follow-up on the Committee’s concluding observations, in collaboration with civil society. In 2022, legislation on marriage and divorce was amended to remove all provisions permitting the marriage of a minor with parents’ permission. Legislation on inheritance had also been revised to remove its gender components.

Questions by Committee Experts

YAMILA GONZÁLEZ FERRER, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur for Sri Lanka, said that the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act was amended in 2022, but there were still concerns about elements of the law addressing abortion and rape. Were there plans to further amend the law? Was work underway to ensure that authorities could mainstream a gender perspective in measures promoting access to justice?

Another Committee Expert congratulated the Government on appointing a woman Prime Minister. Ms. de Silva’s contributions enriched the Committee. The national action plan on women, peace and security was a positive step in addressing the needs of women in conflict. However, challenges remained in this field. Were there plans to conduct a mid-term assessment of the plan? How would the Government ensure accountability for past conflict-related gender-based violence and ensure the rights of victims to protest and mourn publicly?

Non-governmental organizations faced financial and regulatory obstructions. How would the State party support women human rights defenders and remove restrictions on the activities of civil society?

One Committee Expert welcomed measures for increasing the political representation of women, but said the Committee was concerned by the low level of representation of women in public and private life. She commended the quota of 25 per cent representation for local government bodies, but said this was not in line with the Committee’s recommendation of 50 per cent representation. The Expert further commended an initiative to enhance the incomes of women in the agricultural sector. Had this initiative been successful? What affirmative actions had been implemented in other sectors?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said the Government had conducted consultations regarding the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act. It was trying to strike a balance between women’s and children’s rights and cultural rights, and was working to ensure that the law reflected the views of the people. There was constant training of police officers and the judiciary on the Convention. Persons who caused a woman to miscarry, except to save the life of the woman, were punished, but the Government was considering legal amendments in this regard.

Sri Lanka’s civil society had made important contributions to the protection of human rights. The window in which civil society could challenge bills had been extended from seven to 14 days. Freedom of expression, speech and assembly were protected in the Constitution. The Government was committed to protecting the freedom of expression of civil society. It had simplified administrative requirements for registering non-governmental organizations. Regulatory measures were needed to prevent non-governmental organizations from engaging in money laundering and financing of terrorism. Complaints could be made regarding infringements of the rights of human rights defenders to the Supreme Court, the National Police Commission, the Women’s Ombudsperson, and the Human Rights Commission, which had produced guidelines on the protection of human rights defenders.

Women were selected to leadership roles on public bodies on merit. Their representation was improving. Sri Lanka had had the world’s first woman Prime Minister. There was no quota for appointments to roles in the public sector, but over 50 per cent of prosecutors were women. The Government had conducted several awareness raising campaigns encouraging women’s participation in public life. Diploma programmes were developed to train women to participate in political roles, and a forum had been held to advocate for increased representation of women in trade unions. Leadership courses had been held for minority women. Women’s representation in local government had risen to 25 per cent in 2018, thanks to the quota enacted in 2017. The Government aimed to increase the representation of women in Parliament and provincial councils to 30 per cent.

The women, peace and security action plan addressed displacement, and women’s protection, security and participation in peacebuilding. A steering committee had been established to implement the plan and make policy recommendations. The State party was planning to conduct a review of the implementation of the action plan.

The Government was developing a truth and reconciliation process that had the people’s trust. The Office for Reparations had reviewed more than 6,000 complaints, tracing around 180 missing persons and helping over 4,000 families to access remedies. Investigation results were accessible to the public. The national reparations policy was tabled in Parliament in 2022. It included provisions for memorialisation. The Office provided livelihood support, land rights, housing, psychosocial support and measures to prevent violence. Payments had been provided for over 11,000 individuals across various categories. An independent body had also been established to conduct investigations into historic violations.

Questions by Committee Experts

A Committee Expert congratulated Sri Lanka on having the first female Prime Minister in the world and on electing its third female Prime Minister. The State party needed to consider temporary special measures such as quotas to improve women’s representation in various fields. Would the State party increase its 25 per cent quota for Parliament and other bodies?

Another Committee Expert said gender stereotypes perpetuated inequalities in Sri Lanka. What actions had been taken by the State party to promote gender equality in school curricula and tackle gender stereotypes? What was the timeline for amending the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act to ban child marriage?

At least one in five women in Sri Lanka had experienced violence from an intimate partner, and many did not report it. Women who sought justice faced discriminatory treatment in the judicial system. What was the timeline for adopting proposed amendments to the Domestic Violence Act? How would the State party address barriers to women victims accessing justice? Were gender courts available in rural areas? What protections were provided to women victims of violence? Courts did not recognise marital rape and girls over age 16 were not protected from statutory rape. How would the State party ensure that all girls without exception were protected from rape?

One Committee Expert welcomed the national action plan to combat trafficking, the Witness Protection Act, and a fund to compensate victims of violence. Was the unit working to prevent trafficking a militarised unit? Most persons trafficked to the Middle East were female domestic workers. Traffickers recruited women and girls from rural areas and forced them to work in the commercial sex industry in urban areas. Law enforcement lacked proper training on identifying trafficking. What measures were in place to ensure the protection of victims who reported trafficking crimes? Were there efforts being made to reduce the evidence threshold for declaring trafficking crimes? How did the State party ensure that victims of trafficking were not criminalised? Did police officers receive training on trafficking and labour rights?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act had been amended and would come into force this year. The Assistance to Victims Act provided for the establishment of a national authority for the protection of victims and witnesses. It underlined the rights of victims to be treated with respect and privacy, and to request legal, medical and psychosocial assistance. Female victims could request investigating officers of a particular gender.

The police had implemented specialised protective units and a targeted programme that encouraged increased reporting of domestic violence and reduced death rates. A toll-free hotline operated by female officers was available for reporting domestic violence.

The National Anti-Human Trafficking Taskforce coordinated police actions to investigate trafficking in persons. The Taskforce included members of various Government departments; it was not a militarised entity. There was also an anti-trafficking desk within the Ministry of Defence. The Government operated a shelter for female victims of trafficking, which provided health, food and other support services. Awareness raising campaigns on the importance of reporting trafficking crimes were in place. Trafficking in persons was an offence in the Penal Code. Persons who committed or conspired to commit trafficking offences were liable for a penalty of between three to 15 years imprisonment.

Persons who committed rape were punished with imprisonment for no less than seven years, or no less than 15 years when the victim was under 16. A man who had a non-consensual sexual relationship with a woman who was formerly his wife was criminalised.

Questions by Committee Experts

One Committee Expert asked whether marital rape had been criminalised, and if not, when it would be. Were there plans to provide specific services for victims of technologically-assisted gender-based violence and to provide training to stakeholders on this issue?

YAMILA GONZÁLEZ FERRER, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur for Sri Lanka, asked how awareness raising campaigns promoted the rights of women in vulnerable situations.

Another Committee Expert said that in 2023, 51 per cent of harmful speech online targeted women. Women’s rights groups and even the Prime Minister were targeted by online hate speech. How did legislation protect women and rights groups online? Some social media platforms had not removed harmful content due to high thresholds for removal. Did the State party plan to hold these platforms to account to protect women? Thirty-two per cent of Ambassadors were female, though women made up more than half of the foreign service. How would the State party support women to become Ambassadors? Many transgender women faced barriers in accessing residence certificates and the right to vote. How was the State party addressing these barriers?

Another Committee Expert said Sri Lankan women who married foreigners faced barriers in passing their nationality to their children. What measures were in place to ensure that women could transmit their nationality on par with their male counterparts? Tamil women, women in rural zones, and displaced women often lacked documentation to prove their nationality. Lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex women faced discrimination from police and confronted obstacles in obtaining gender recognition papers. Children born to foreign parents did not obtain Sri Lankan nationality, raising issues of statelessness for plantation workers. How was the State addressing these issues?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said statutory rape was currently rape of persons aged up to 16 years. Marital rape was not currently criminalised. The Online Safety Act aimed to promote safety for women and girls online. The Cybercrime Investigation Unit was tasked with handling all cyber-related complaints, including those related to sexual and gender-based violence and online child exploitation. It acted swiftly to remove harmful online content, including from social media platforms. Women could submit complaints of online abuse through email and hotlines. The Act established an independent Online Safety Commission that could issue directives to internet service providers, requiring them to respond to discriminatory online acts. The Commission could also disable users, remove offending content, and seek internet intermediaries to disclose the identities of offenders.

Women played a significant role in diplomatic representation at all levels. They accounted for more than 50 per cent of diplomatic mission staff, so it was likely that women would account for more than 50 per cent of Ambassadors in future.

Freedom of expression was recognised in the Constitution, but this right was not without limitation. It could not be used to infringe on the rights of others. Hate speech against political candidates could be reported to the Elections Commission, as well as the Women’s Commission and the Human Rights Commission.

The conferment of citizenship was previously linked to fathers in legislation; however, this had been amended to allow for citizenship to be conferred by both parents. Citizenship could be provided to stateless children by the State. There was no legal impediment to persons obtaining birth certificates. Tamils of Indian origin would be recognised as Sri Lankan citizens. The Government was considering programmes to provide permanent residency to members of the Malayaga community, and the members of Parliament from this community could take up this issue in the legislature. There were measures to identify stateless children and register them. Mobile units were in place that supported birth registration for families living on plantations.

The family background report system had been criticised as being discriminatory, placing the burden of childcare on women. In 2022, the Cabinet of Ministers removed the mandatory family background report for women seeking work abroad and lowered the age limit for them. The Government was supporting access to caretakers for children aged two and above. It sought to support both women and men to seek work overseas without compromising their family’s welfare.

Questions by Committee Experts

One Committee Expert asked whether the Online Services Act was effective. Had there been any prosecutions under it? What was the State party doing to implement local elections, which had not been held since 2018, and to support women’s participation in those elections?

A Committee Expert asked whether the period of free birth registration would be extended.

One Committee Expert said Sri Lanka had made achievements regarding girls’ education. Girls’ literacy rate was over 90 per cent, which was much higher than many other countries in the region. However, child marriages remained a challenge in rural communities and were a major reason for girls dropping out of schools. The COVID-19 pandemic also affected girls in rural areas, as they had limited opportunities to participate in online education. The computer literacy rate on plantations was less than half that of other regions.

Stereotypes hindered the access of Muslim women and girls to education. What measures had the State party taken to combat dropouts of girls in primary and secondary education? What measures were in place to promote gender mainstreaming in education? How did the State party ensure that girls of all religions could access education? What activities were carried out to prevent stereotypes in education?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said the Online Safety Act was a new law. There had yet to be prosecutions under the law. The related Commission would soon be set up and would be able to investigate complaints.

Every citizen over the age of 18 who was qualified to be an elector could become one. Sri Lanka had established an independent Election Commission that could investigate complaints of violations and issue sanctions. The Supreme Court had upheld the right to vote and held that any impediment to such was a violation. The law on local government elections was being revised; once this had concluded, local elections could be held.

The education system was committed to ensuring equal access for all students, regardless of gender. The provision of free school meals and textbooks allowed for girls from poor families to pursue their education. The State party was committed to reducing the burden that education placed on parents. Education was compulsory until age 16. An initiative to provide girls with sanitary pads was implemented in 2024, benefitting 800,000 girls. Scholarships were provided to girls from low-income families to participate in technology studies. There had been an increase in the share of girls participating in science, technology, engineering and maths courses in university in recent years; the share was currently 37 per cent.

Questions by Committee Experts

A Committee Expert commended the State party for establishing sexual harassment committees and creating a labour complaints mechanism. Most women worked in the informal sector, where they lacked labour rights and were vulnerable to abuse. Many informal sector workers lacked access to social security, leave and childcare services. What measures were in place to protect the rights of women in the informal sector? Did the State party plan to establish mechanisms to allow domestic workers to seek redress in cases of abuse? Were there plans to extend paid maternity leave to at least 14 weeks and promote shared parental leave? Were there plans to ratify International Labour Organization Conventions 181, 189 and 190? The number of Sri Lankan migrant domestic workers had increased in recent years. These workers often faced abuse from their employers. How were these workers informed about their rights and protected from abuse?

Another Committee Expert commended Sri Lanka’s commitment to strengthening public health care. Persistent barriers obstructed women’s sexual and reproductive health rights. How would State policies address these barriers? Restrictive laws forced many women to resort to unsafe abortions. What steps had been taken to ensure women’s safe access to abortion? What measures were in place to prevent forced sterilisation and ensure informed consent? Girls faced challenges in accessing information on contraception, leading to high rates of early pregnancies. What measures were in place to reduce early pregnancies? Many schools in rural areas lacked proper sanitation facilities, forcing girls to miss school during menstrual periods. There was also a very high tax of 47 per cent on menstrual products. How was the State party supporting access to sanitation facilities and menstrual products for women and girls?

Female genital mutilation continued to be practiced in some Muslim communities. There was no law criminalising female genital mutilation in Sri Lanka. When would one be developed? What awareness raising campaigns on female genital mutilation were in place? Some women experienced obstetric violence during childbirth. Did the State party intend to implement measures to prevent such practices?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said women spent more time than men in unpaid domestic work in Sri Lanka. The Government had taken steps to train care workers to improve the availability of childcare and disability care services for working mothers and reduce the burden of unpaid care work. Sri Lanka was interested in ratifying International Labour Organization Convention 190. The necessary amendments had been incorporated into legislation. The State had also implemented policies to promote women’s employment. The Minister of Labour and Foreign Employment was conducting consultations with stakeholders to strengthen protections of Sri Lankan domestic workers overseas. The Women’s Empowerment Act aimed to address the gender pay gap.

Taxes on sanitary products and baby formula had been removed. Budgetary allocations had been ensured for sexual and reproductive health services across the country. All students from sixth grade received sexual and reproductive health education, which addressed preventing unwanted pregnancies. Medical practitioners who practiced or promoted female genital mutilation were sanctioned. There were no specific offences on female genital mutilation or obstetric violence, but these acts were prohibited under general legislation on violence.

Questions by Committee Experts

One Committee Expert commended the State party on working to ensure the empowerment of women and girls through the rural employment programme and programmes on digital transformation. What concrete actions were being taken to ensure that vulnerable women and girls were aware of the economic empowerment policies in place? How was the State party preventing the abuse of women by financial institutions and regulating lending practices? Had the State party assessed fiscal reforms and their impacts on the rights of women and girls? How was the State party mitigating the unfair financial burden of tax on women and girls? What measures were in place to increase the representation of women and girls in decision making related to economic empowerment? What measures were there to support female athletes to overcome structural barriers in sports?

Another Committee Expert said female tea plantation workers continued to have less access to Government subsidies and microcredit due to their lack of access to land ownership. How was this being addressed? Women with disabilities continued to face stigma and discrimination, and infrastructure was not adapted to persons with disabilities. How was the State party working to make inclusive education programmes more adapted to persons with disabilities? There were also persistent hate crimes against lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex women. What measures were in place to prevent such hate crimes? Same sex sexual acts were criminalised; would they be decriminalised? What reforms had been made to ensure adequate facilities for women in prisons? Were women prisoners allowed to live with their young children in prisons?

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said the Government had implemented various welfare measures for persons in poverty. Around 1.7 million households benefited from welfare support. There were various Government programmes for empowering women-led households. The banking system had also provided special loan schemes with favourable interest rates and flexible return policies for women entrepreneurs during the financial crisis. Banks had offered advisory services and capacity building programmes for women entrepreneurs. The State had been regulating lending institutions. Support had been provided to 185 rural women affected by unregulated microcredit schemes. A socioeconomic protection scheme helped to ease loss of income due to unemployment.

Sri Lanka had undertaken various initiatives to empower women to engage in technology studies and the digital economy. The national strategy for women’s development promoted women’s digital freedom and security. Many women entrepreneurs had been trained on digital skills.

Sanitary facilities in prisons had been improved to ensure a comfortable stay for women, and facilities for children in prison with their mothers had also been improved. There were plans to establish a separate women’s prison aligned with international standards.

The police had been instructed on protecting the fundamental rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons and investigating complaints from these persons. A bill had been lodged in Parliament on decriminalising same-sex relations. The Supreme Court had found that there was no barrier to the amendment of this legislation. The bill had yet to be considered due to the dissolution of Parliament.

Questions by Committee Experts

YAMILA GONZÁLEZ FERRER, Committee Expert and Country Rapporteur for Sri Lanka, asked whether the law on terrorism could be used to prevent the operation of women’s organizations.

Another Committee Expert welcomed the State party’s efforts to ensure women’s equal rights in law and family relations. Had measures been taken to amend the Penal Code to ensure that legislation on statutory rape protected all girls under age 16, including girls over age 12 who were married? The Committee expected that the State party would address legislation on polygamy. When would the State party revise the family law to allow women to have equal rights to men concerning custody of children? What was the status of legal amendments seeking to strengthen the rights of widows?

NAHLA HAIDAR, Committee Chair, said that, while respecting the freedom of belief, the State party needed to work to protect the rights of Muslim women and girls.

Responses by the Delegation

The delegation said the law on terrorism had not been used to limit the activities of women’s organizations in recent years. The law was only used in instances when it was necessary.

The amended Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act set the age of marriage at 18, but children from age 16 could be married with parental consent. The previous Cabinet of Ministers had approved the amended bill, and the new Government would consider whether to take this legislation forward. The Parliamentary Caucus had proposed the establishment of a committee to address the issue of child marriages.

Concluding Remarks

SAROJA SAVITRI PAULRAJ, Minister of Women and Child Affairs of Sri Lanka and head of the delegation, said Sri Lanka participated in the review in a spirit of openness. It appreciated the Committee’s recognition of the progress it had made and the challenges it faced. The Government had undertaken significant efforts to strengthen women’s empowerment. It was fully committed to addressing the issues that women faced in the State. Ms. Paulraj thanked the Committee for the constructive dialogue. The Government was committed to the promotion and protection of the human rights of all Sri Lankans and would continue to engage with the Committee constructively.

NAHLA HAIDAR, Committee Chair, said that the State party had shared candidly and transparently the progress made and the difficulties it was facing. The dialogue had helped the Committee to better understand the situation of women and girls in Sri Lanka. It commended the State party for its efforts and encouraged it to implement the Committee’s recommendations for the benefit of all women and girls in the State party.

Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media;
not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

CEDAW25.009E

MIL OSI United Nations News –

February 14, 2025

Category: Asia

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Background

Indian Standards should be accorded top priority: Centre

Bureau of Indian Standards organises Inter-Ministerial Meeting on Implementation of Standards – Bringing more products under Quality Control Orders (QCOs)

XR Creator Hackathon Showcases Next Generation of Extended Reality Innovators

The event featured an engaging VR activity session showcasing a virtual experience of Chandrayaan and Gaming Warfare simulation, among others