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Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Global: Art and science illuminate the same subtle proportions in tree branches

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Mitchell Newberry, Research Assistant Professor of Biology, University of Michigan

    Tree branches in art throughout history follow geometric rules related to fractal geometry. ‘Almond blossom’ by Vincent van Gogh. Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam.

    Do artists and scientists see the same thing in the shape of trees? As a scientist who studies branching patterns in living things, I’m starting to think so.

    Piet Mondrian was an early 20th-century abstract artist and art theorist obsessed with simplicity and essence of form. Even people who have never heard of Mondrian will likely recognize his iconic irregular grids of rectangles.

    When I saw Mondrian’s 1911 “Gray Tree,” I immediately recognized something about trees that I had struggled to describe. By removing all but the most essential elements in an abstract painting, Mondrian demonstrated something I was attempting to explain using physics and fractal geometry.

    My field of research is mathematical biology. My colleagues and I try to explain how treelike structures such as veins and arteries, lungs and leaves fine-tune their physical form to efficiently deliver blood, air, water and nutrients.

    Fundamental research in the biology of branching helps cure cardiovascular diseases and cancer, design materials that can heal themselves and predict how trees will respond to a changing climate. Branching also shows up in ant foraging patterns, slime molds and cities.

    The treeless tree

    From 1890 to 1912, Mondrian painted dozens of trees. He started with full-color, realistic trees in context: trees in a farmyard or a dappled lane. Gradually he removed leaves, depth, color and eventually even branching from his tree paintings. “Gray Tree” uses only curved lines of various thickness superimposed on top of one another at seemingly random angles. Yet the image is unmistakably a tree.

    How did Mondrian convey the sense of a tree with so little? The science of trees may offer some clues.

    The science of branching

    One goal of mathematical biology is to synthesize what scientists know about the vast diversity of living systems – where there seems to be an exception to every rule – into clear, general principles, ideally with few exceptions. One such general principle is that evolution fine-tunes treelike structures in living things to make metabolism and respiration as efficient as possible.

    The body carefully controls the thickness of vessels as they branch, because deviation from the most efficient diameter wastes energy and causes disease, such as atherosclerosis.

    In many cases, such as human blood vessels, the body exerts much tighter control over diameter than length. So while veins and arteries might take circuitous routes to accommodate the vagaries of organs and anatomy, their diameter usually stays within 10% of the optimum. The same principle appears in tree branches as well.

    The precise calibration of branch diameter leads to a hallmark of fractal shapes called scale invariance. A scale invariance is a property that holds true regardless of the size of an object or part of an object you’re looking at. Scale invariance occurs in trees because trunks, limbs and twigs all branch in similar ways and for similar reasons.

    The scale invariance in branch diameter dictates how much smaller a limb should be as it branches and how much investment a tree makes in a few thick branches versus many thin ones. Trees have evolved scale invariance to transport water, reach light and resist gravity and wind load as efficiently as possible given physical limits.

    This science of trees inspired my colleague and me to measure the scaling of tree branch diameter in art.

    The art of trees

    Among my favorite images is a carving of a tree from a late-medieval mosque in India. Its exaltation of trees reminds me of Tolkien’s Tree of Gondor and the human capacity to appreciate the simple beauty of living things.

    But I also find mathematical inspiration in the Islamic Golden Age, a time when art, architecture, math and physics thrived. Medieval Islamic architects even decorated buildings with infinitely nonrepeating tiling patterns that were not understood by Western mathematics until the 20th century.

    The stylized tree carvings of the Sidi Saiyyed mosque also follow the precise system of proportions dictated by the scale invariance of real trees. This level of precision of branch diameter takes an attentive eye and a careful plan – much better than I could freehand.

    Indeed, wherever our team looked at trees in great artwork, such as Klimt’s “Tree of Life” or Matsumura Goshun’s “Cherry Blossoms,” we also found precise scale invariance in the diameter of branches.

    “Grey Tree” also realistically captures the natural variation in branch diameters, even when the painting gives the viewer little else to go on. Without realistic scaling, would this painting even be a tree?

    As if to prove the point, Mondrian made a subsequent painting the following year, also with a gray background, curved lines and the same overall composition and dimensions. Even the position of some of the lines are the same.

    But, in “Blooming Apple Tree” (1912), all the lines are the same thickness. The scaling is gone, and with it, the tree. Before reading the title, most viewers would not guess that this is a painting of a tree. Yet Mondrian’s sketches reveal that “Blooming Apple Tree” and “Gray Tree” are the very same tree.

    The two paintings contain few elements that might signal a tree – a concentration of lines near the center, lines that could be branches or a central trunk and lines that could indicate the ground or a horizon.

    Yet only “Gray Tree” has scale-invariant branch diameters. When Mondrian removes the scale invariance in “Blooming Apple Tree,” viewers just as easily see fish, scales, dancers, water or simply nonrepresentational shapes, whereas the tree in “Gray Tree” is unmistakable.

    Photo synthesis

    Mondrian’s tree paintings and scientific theory highlight the importance of the thickness of tree branches. Consilience is when different lines of evidence and reasoning reach the same conclusions. Art and math both explore abstract descriptions of the world, and so seeing great art and science pick out the same essential features of trees is satisfying beyond what art or science could accomplish alone.

    Just as great literature such as “The Overstory” and “The Botany of Desire” show us how trees influence our lives in ways we often don’t notice, the art and science of trees show how humans are finely attuned to what’s important to trees. I think this resonance is one reason people find fractals and natural landscapes so pleasing and reassuring.

    All these lines of thinking give us new ways to appreciate trees.

    Mitchell Newberry has published research on tree branching supported by University of Michigan and University of New Mexico. He volunteers with Cool It Burque, a tree-planting group in Albuquerque, NM.

    – ref. Art and science illuminate the same subtle proportions in tree branches – https://theconversation.com/art-and-science-illuminate-the-same-subtle-proportions-in-tree-branches-247967

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Exercise Cutlass Express 2025 launches across East Africa

    Source: United States Navy

    Exercise Cutlass Express 2025, sponsored by U.S. Africa Command and enabled by U.S. 6th Fleet, brings together more than 20 multinational partners for two weeks of training to support collaborative maritime security operations in the region.

    Throughout the exercise, U.S. forces will work alongside participating nations to enhance maritime domain awareness, improve international law enforcement capacity and increase interoperability between the U.S., African, and other multinational partner navies and coast guards.

    “Cutlass Express continues to provide an exceptional venue to collaborate with our African partners on maritime security,” said Vice Adm. J. T. Anderson, commander, U.S. 6th Fleet. “When we combine the strength of our partnerships with the high level of training provided by exercises like this, we improve the overall security and economic prosperity of a region that extends far beyond the territorial waters and exclusive economic zones of each individual nation.”

    This year’s exercise will focus training efforts in Mauritius, Seychelles and Tanzania, though information sharing and coordination will take place across nine maritime operation centers (MOCs) located throughout the region. Additionally, Exercise Cutlass Express 2025 is linked to U.S. Naval Forces Central Command’s International Maritime Exercise 2025 through information sharing between MOCs to improve theater-to-theater coordination, reduce regional seams, and strengthen U.S. and partner nation capabilities and interoperability.

    Exercise Cutlass Express 2025 will also run concurrently with the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa led exercise Justified Accord 2025 in Kenya and Tanzania to improve defense capabilities of multi-domain forces and refine crisis and counterterrorism responses, ultimately reducing global maritime threats.

    Participants in this year’s iteration of Cutlass Express include Belgium, Comoros, Djibouti, France, Georgia, India, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique, Senegal, Seychelles, Somalia, Tanzania, Tunisia, and the United Kingdom.

    Cutlass Express is one of three regional maritime exercises led by U.S. 6th Fleet as part of a comprehensive strategy to provide collaborative opportunities to African forces and international partners to address maritime security concerns.

    Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners to advance U.S. national interests, security and stability in Europe and Africa.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Restores Section 232 Tariffs

    Source: The White House

    COUNTERING TRADE PRACTICES THAT UNDERMINE NATIONAL SECURITY: Yesterday, President Donald J. Trump signed proclamations to close existing loopholes and exemptions to restore a true 25% tariff on steel and elevate the tariff to 25% on aluminum.

    • President Trump is taking action to protect America’s critical steel and aluminum industries, which have been harmed by unfair trade practices and global excess capacity.
    • President Trump is reinstating the full 25% tariff on steel imports and increasing tariffs on aluminum imports to 25%.
      • Key reforms include eliminating all alternative agreements, applying strict “melted and poured” standards, expanding tariffs to include key downstream products, terminating all general approved exclusions, and cracking down on tariff misclassification and duty evasion schemes.
    • The countries of Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, the European Union, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom had received exemptions, which prevented the tariffs from being effective.
      • By granting exemptions to certain countries, the United States inadvertently created loopholes that were exploited by China and others with excess steel and aluminum capacity, undermining the purpose of these exemptions.
    • The President is exercising his authority under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to adjust imports of steel and aluminum to protect our national security.
      • This statute provides the President with authority to adjust imports being brought into the United States in quantities or under circumstances that threaten to impair national security.
      • In March 2018, President Trump invoked authority under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 (19 U.S.C. § 1862) to impose 25% tariffs on steel imports and 10% tariffs on aluminum.  These measures were remarkably effective in supporting recovery and reinvestment in the American steel industry and saved the domestic primary aluminum industry from total collapse. But exemptions and loopholes have permitted evasion of the tariffs and weakened the effectiveness of the program.
      • The reinvigorated Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum will support the program’s original objective of revitalizing the domestic steel and aluminum industries and achieving sustainable capacity utilization of at least 80%.

    RESTORING FAIRNESS TO STEEL AND ALUMINUM MARKETS: President Trump is taking action to end unfair trade practices and the global dumping of steel and aluminum.

    • Foreign nations have been flooding the United States market with cheap steel and aluminum, often subsidized by their governments.
    • A report from the first Trump Administration found that steel import levels and global excess were weakening our domestic economy and threatening to impair national security.
      • The report found that excess production and capacity, particularly in China, has been a major factor in the decline of domestic aluminum production.
    • While the domestic steel industry briefly achieved 80% utilization in 2021, subsequent trade pressure following the COVID-19 pandemic has depressed domestic production.  In 2022 and 2023, capacity utilization fell to 77.3% and 75.3%, respectively.  High import volumes from sources exempt from Section 232 tariffs are a major factor in depressing domestic production volumes. 
    • For aluminum, there was an increase in the capacity utilization rate between 2017 and 2019, from 40% to 61% during that period. But since 2019, the aluminum capacity utilization has once again seen a steady decline, falling from 61% to 55% between 2019 and 2023.  
    • The United States does not want to be in a position where it would be unable to meet demand for national defense and critical infrastructure in a national emergency.

    STRENGTHENING AMERICA’S MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY: President Trump’s decision to close existing loopholes and exemptions will strengthen United States’ steel and aluminum industries.

    • In his first term, President Trump imposed Section 232 tariffs to protect the American steel and aluminum industries from unfair foreign competition.
    • The steel tariffs that President Trump implemented led to thousands of jobs gained and higher wages in the metals industry.
      • These tariffs were hailed as a “boon” for Minnesota’s iron ore industry, with state officials crediting tariffs for bolstering the local economy. 
      • Steel and aluminum imports drastically decreased under President Trump, falling by nearly a third from 2016 to 2020.
      • The tariffs led to a wave in investment across the United States, with more than $10 billion committed to build new mills.
    • It was recently announced that Hyundai Steel is actively considering building a steel plant in the United States.
    • U.S. steelmakers, including the American Iron and Steel Institute and the Steel Manufacturers Association, have praised President Trump’s America First trade policy.

    TARIFFS WORK: Studies have repeatedly shown that contrary to public rhetoric, tariffs can be an effective tool for achieving economic and strategic objectives.

    • A 2024 study on the effects of President Trump’s tariffs in his first Administration found that they “strengthened the U.S. economy,” and “led to significant reshoring” in industries like manufacturing and steel production.
    • A 2023 report by the U.S. International Trade Commission that analyzed the effects of Section 232 and 301 tariffs on more than $300 billion of U.S. imports found that the tariffs reduced imports from China, effectively stimulated more U.S. production of the tariffed goods, with very minor effects on prices.
    • According to the Economic Policy Institute, the tariffs implemented by President Trump during his first Administration “clearly show[ed] no correlation with inflation” and only had a temporary effect on overall price levels.
    • An analysis from the Atlantic Council found that “tariffs would create new incentives for US consumers to buy US-made products.”
    • Former Biden Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen affirmed last year that tariffs do not raise prices: “I don’t believe that American consumers will see any meaningful increase in the prices that they face.”

    A 2024 economic analysis found that a global tariff of 10% would grow the economy by $728 billion, create 2.8 million jobs, and increase real household incomes by 5.7%.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Crime rises 5% in 2024

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    A total of 94,747 crimes were reported in 2024, representing an increase of 5% compared to the figure for 2023, Police said today.

    The upsurge was mainly attributed to an increase in deception cases.

    The overall detection rate was 30.4%, similar to that of 2023.

    Leaving deception cases aside, the overall crime figure recorded a drop of 185 cases last year, while the detection rate rose by 1.7 percentage points to 47.9%.

    There were 10,485 cases of violent crime, registering a rise of 3.6% – primarily driven by the rise in “naked chat blackmail” cases.

    Apart from deception and blackmail, another major crime of rape recorded an increase.

    A number of traditional crimes record a lower case load in 2024, with the detection rate for robbery and snatching cases hitting a record high.

    Deception cases rose 11.7% year-on-year in 2024 to 44,480, accounting for 46.9% of the overall number of crimes. Among them, 61.8% were Internet-related.

    The rise in deception cases was mainly attributed to the emergence of the new modus operandi of telephone deception involving “Impersonating Customer Service” since early last year. A total of 5,575 cases of such modus operandi were reported in 2024.

    As to the national security situation, since the National Security Law and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance came into force, as at the end of December 2024, Police’s National Security Department arrested a total of 316 people, with 60% having been charged.

    Looking forward, Police will focus this year on safeguarding national security, working to combat deception cases and ensuring that the 15th National Games will be conducted in a safe and orderly manner.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Phobos Ransomware Affiliates Arrested in Coordinated International Disruption

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Note: View the superseding indictment here.

    Phobos Group Alleged to have Attacked Over 1,000 Victims Worldwide

    The Justice Department today unsealed criminal charges against Roman Berezhnoy, 33, and Egor Nikolaevich Glebov, 39, both Russian nationals, who allegedly operated a cybercrime group using the Phobos ransomware that victimized more than 1,000 public and private entities in the United States and around the world and received over $16 million in ransom payments. Berezhnoy and Glebov were arrested this week as part of a coordinated international disruption of their organization, which includes additional arrests and the technical disruption of the group’s computer infrastructure.

    From May 2019, through at least October 2024, Berezhnoy, Glebov, and others allegedly caused victims to suffer losses resulting from the loss of access to their data in addition to the financial losses associated with the ransomware payments. The victims included a children’s hospital, health care providers, and educational institutions.

    8Base Seizure Banner

    According to court documents, Berezhnoy, Glebov, and others operated a ransomware affiliate organization, including under the names “8Base” and “Affiliate 2803,” among others, that victimized public and private entities through the deployment of Phobos ransomware.

    As part of the scheme, Berezhnoy, Glebov, and others allegedly hacked into victim computer networks, copied and stole files and programs on the victims’ network, and encrypted the original versions of the stolen data with Phobos ransomware. The conspirators then allegedly extorted the victims for ransom payments in exchange for the decryption keys to regain access to the encrypted data by, among other things, leaving a ransom note on compromised victim computers and separately reaching out to victims to initiate ransom payment negotiations.

    As alleged, the conspirators also threatened to expose victims’ stolen files to the public or to the victims’ clients, customers, or constituents if the ransoms were not paid. The conspirators are further alleged to have established and operated a darknet website where they repeated their extortionate threats and ultimately published the stolen data if a victim failed to pay the ransom.

    After a successful Phobos ransomware attack, criminal affiliates paid fees to Phobos administrators for a decryption key to regain access to the encrypted files. Each deployment of Phobos ransomware was assigned a unique alphanumeric string in order to match it to the corresponding decryption key, and each affiliate was directed to pay the decryption key fee to a cryptocurrency wallet unique to that affiliate.

    The charges unsealed today against Berezhnoy and Glebov follow the recent arrest and extradition of Evgenii Ptitsyn, a Russian national, on charges relating to his alleged administration of the Phobos ransomware variant.

    In parallel with this week’s arrests, Europol and German authorities have announced an international operation involving the FBI and other international law enforcement partners to disrupt over 100 servers associated with this criminal network.

    Berezhnoy and Glebov are charged in an 11-count indictment with one count of wire fraud conspiracy, one count of wire fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit computer fraud and abuse, three counts of causing intentional damage to protected computers, three counts of extortion in relation to damage to a protected computer, one count of transmitting a threat to impair the confidentiality of stolen data, and one count of unauthorized access and obtaining information from a protected computer. If convicted, Berezhnoy and Glebov face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on each wire fraud-related count; 10 years in prison on each computer damage count; and five years in prison on each of the other counts. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Erek L. Barron for the District of Maryland, Assistant Director Bryan Vorndran of the FBI’s Cyber Division, and Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the FBI Baltimore Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI Baltimore Field Office is investigating the case. The Justice Department extends its thanks to international judicial and law enforcement partners in the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, Spain, Belgium, Poland, Czech Republic, France, Thailand, Finland, and Romania, as well as Europol and the U.S. Department of Defense Cyber Crime Center, for their cooperation and coordination with the Phobos ransomware investigation. The National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section and the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs also provided valuable assistance.

    Senior Counsel Aarash A. Haghighat of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas M. Sullivan for the District of Maryland are prosecuting the case. Former CCIPS Trial Attorney Riane Harper and former Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron S.J. Zelinsky and Jeffrey J. Izant for the District of Maryland provided substantial assistance.

    Additional details on protecting networks against Phobos ransomware are available at StopRansomware.gov, including Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency Advisory AA24-060A.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: China’s crude oil imports decreased from a record as refinery activity slowed

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    In-depth analysis

    February 11, 2025

    Data source: China General Administration of Customs, Bloomberg L.P.

    Slower oil demand growth in 2024 led to less crude oil processed by China’s refineries and fewer crude oil imports compared with the record high set in 2023. China, the world’s largest importer of crude oil, received 11.1 million barrels per day (b/d) in 2024, down from 11.3 million b/d in 2023. Even though total imports decreased about 2%, imports from some countries increased while others decreased.

    Why did China’s crude oil imports decrease last year?

    We estimate that 16.3 million b/d of petroleum and other liquid fuels were consumed in China last year, second only to the United States globally. China’s domestic crude oil production averaged 4.3 million b/d in 2024, so the country had to import crude oil to meet the demand from its domestic refined petroleum product and petrochemical manufacturing sectors. China’s refiners imported 11.1 million b/d of crude oil and processed 14.2 million b/d. Both crude oil imports and refinery runs decreased in China from record levels in 2023, when the country imported 11.3 million b/d of crude oil and processed 14.8 million b/d.

    Net decreases in the consumption of transportation fuel (gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel) last year meant China’s refineries processed less crude oil. Monthly data from China’s National Bureau of Statistics and General Administration of Customs indicate that consumption of both gasoline and jet fuel grew in China during 2024, but consumption of diesel fuel offset this growth with a large decline from 2023. These estimates are preliminary and subject to revision until late 2025, when China publishes annual consumption data, which we use to update our International Energy Statistics.

    Instead of transportation fuels, liquefied petroleum gases (LPG), naphtha, or other petroleum products that can be imported directly for petrochemical manufacturing instead of refined from crude oil have led China’s growth in petroleum consumption. As a result, the net decline in transportation fuel demand reduced both refinery runs and import demand for crude oil in China last year.

    Which countries do China’s refiners import crude oil from?

    China’s refiners purchase crude oil from dozens of countries, with Russia, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Oman, and Malaysia being the largest sources. Imports from Malaysia increased significantly last year to 1.4 million b/d, which is more than Malaysia’s domestic crude oil production of around 0.6 million b/d. The large difference stems from crude oil cargoes that were initially shipped from Iran but were then relabeled or transferred to avoid sanctions.

    Imports from Russia increased in 2024 for the third consecutive year and averaged 2.2 million b/d, 1% more than in 2023. China increased imports from Russia after the Group of Seven (G7) country import bans and sanctions limited Russia’s ability to sell crude oil after its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. These actions prompted Russia to sell some of its crude oil at discounted prices, making it more attractive to certain buyers.

    On January 10, 2025, the United States announced additional sanctions on several oil vessels transporting crude oil from Russia. Because of potential disruptions from these actions, refiners in China may reduce purchases from Russia and replace those barrels with others from crude oil exporting countries not subject to sanctions, such as Brazil, Canada, the United States, or countries in the Middle East.

    China’s second-largest source of crude oil imports was Saudi Arabia, although these imports decreased for the third consecutive year and averaged 1.6 million b/d, 9% less than in 2023.

    Data source: China General Administration of Customs, Bloomberg L.P.
    Note: Congo=Congo-Brazzaville

    Imports from other Middle East OPEC countries including the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kuwait also declined, but imports from Iraq increased. Although small, crude oil imports from Canada increased, particularly in the second half of the year after the Trans Mountain expansion (TMX) project began commercial operations in May 2024. This pipeline expansion brings increased crude oil export capacity to Asia from Canada’s West Coast, which contributed to imports at more than 0.3 million b/d from Canada in September, an all-time high.

    What factors will affect China’s crude oil imports and refining this year?

    We forecast petroleum consumption in China will grow more slowly in 2025 and 2026 than in previous years in our latest Short-Term Energy Outlook. Because we expect growth in China’s consumption will outpace China’s domestic production of crude oil and other liquids, we believe net imports will increase. Last summer, we released a study on refinery capacity expansions in China and other countries through 2028. Several integrated refining and petrochemical complexes will open or expand over the next few years, suggesting crude oil imports will continue growing to meet feedstock demand from these facilities.

    However, a tax change implemented in December 2024 creates considerable uncertainty for China’s petroleum trade balance this year. China reduced a value-added tax rebate offered on some petroleum product exports, which reduces their competitiveness in world markets. Depending on the effects of this change on Chinese refiners’ operations and profitability, refinery runs and crude oil imports could decline.

    Data source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Short-Term Energy Outlook, January 2025
    Note: We forecast net imports as domestic consumption minus production.

    Principal contributor: Jeff Barron

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Key figures behind Phobos and 8Base ransomware arrested in international cybercrime crackdown

    Source: Europol

    This follows a series of high-impact arrests targeting Phobos ransomware:An administrator of Phobos was arrested in South Korea in June 2024 and extradited to the United States in November of the same year. He is now facing prosecution for orchestrating ransomware attacks that encrypted critical infrastructure, business systems, and personal data for ransom.A key Phobos affiliate was arrested in Italy…

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitdeer Announces Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Earnings Conference Call for February 25, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitdeer Technologies Group (NASDAQ: BTDR) (“Bitdeer” or the “Company”), a world-leading technology company for blockchain and high-performance computing, today announced that it has scheduled its fourth quarter and full year 2024 earnings conference call and webcast for Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at 8:00 AM EST. During the call, Bitdeer management will discuss the preliminary and unaudited financial and operational results for the quarter and year ended December 31, 2024, followed by a question-and-answer session.

    Bitdeer will release its fourth quarter and full year 2024 preliminary and unaudited results before the call at approximately 7:00 AM EST on February 25, 2025. A copy of the earnings release will be available on the Company’s Investor Relations website at https://ir.bitdeer.com.

    Conference Call Information:

    • Date: February 25, 2025
    • Time: 8:00 AM EST / 9:00 PM SGT
    • Participant Call Links:
      • Live Webcast: Link
      • Participant Call Registration: Link

    Participants wishing to join the conference call by phone should register using the Participant Call Registration link provided above. After completing the registration, the participants will receive an email with the necessary details to access the call including dial-in number, passcode, and PIN. To ensure a timely start, the Company encourages all callers to connect about 5 minutes before the scheduled time.

    A live and archived webcast of the conference call will be available on the Investors section of Bitdeer’s website at https://ir.bitdeer.com.

    About Bitdeer Technologies Group

    Bitdeer is a world-leading technology company for blockchain and high-performance computing. Bitdeer is committed to providing comprehensive computing solutions for its customers. The Company handles complex processes involved in computing such as equipment procurement, transport logistics, datacenter design and construction, equipment management, and daily operations. The Company also offers advanced cloud capabilities to customers with high demand for artificial intelligence. Headquartered in Singapore, Bitdeer has deployed datacenters in the United States, Norway, and Bhutan. To learn more, visit https://ir.bitdeer.com/ or follow Bitdeer on X @ BitdeerOfficial and LinkedIn @ Bitdeer Group.

    Investors and others should note that Bitdeer may announce material information using its website and/or on its accounts on social media platforms, including X, formerly known as Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Therefore, Bitdeer encourages investors and others to review the information it posts on the social media and other communication channels listed on its website.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Statements in this press release about future expectations, plans, and prospects, as well as any other statements regarding matters that are not historical facts, may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words “anticipate,” “look forward to,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors, including factors discussed in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in Bitdeer’s annual report on Form 20-F, as well as discussions of potential risks, uncertainties, and other important factors in Bitdeer’s subsequent filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date hereof. Bitdeer specifically disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether due to new information, future events, or otherwise. Readers should not rely upon the information on this page as current or accurate after its publication date.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    Investor Relations
    Orange Group
    Yujia Zhai
    bitdeerIR@orangegroupadvisors.com

    Public Relations
    BlocksBridge Consulting
    Nishant Sharma
    bitdeer@blocksbridge.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Camp Hill virus explained: what are the risks of a henipavirus outbreak in America?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Shirin Ashraf, Postdoctoral Researcher, MRC-Centre for Virus Research, University of Glasgow

    A new pathogen, called Camp Hill virus, was recently discovered in Alabama, drawing attention to a group of viruses known as henipaviruses. This is a big deal because other viruses in this group are linked to serious, often fatal, disease, and this is the first time one of them has been found in North America.

    Camp Hill virus was discovered by looking at tissue samples from short-tailed shrews that were collected in 2021. It’s a new species of virus that’s related to other dangerous viruses such as Nipah and Hendra, which have caused serious outbreaks in other parts of the world. It’s also distantly related to the measles virus.

    The first known henipavirus, Hendra virus, was identified in Australia in 1994. There have been just seven cases of humans getting infected – four of them were fatal.

    Nipah virus, discovered in Malaysia in 1998, is much more deadly. It has caused 30 outbreaks in south-east Asia, infecting over 600 people, with death rates as high as 100% in some cases.

    These viruses usually cause fever and other serious symptoms, such as brain swelling and difficulty breathing. They are thought to be carried by bats and can spread to humans through their saliva or urine. Horses are also thought to be carriers.

    Thanks to new technology that allows scientists to study the genetics of viruses, they’ve now found nearly 20 species of henipaviruses around the world. These viruses have been found on every continent except Antarctica, including places like Ghana, China, Australia and Brazil. This shows that henipaviruses are probably common in nature, and new ones could pop up almost anywhere.

    For example, in China, a virus called Mojang virus was linked to the deaths of three workers who were exposed to it in a mine. Another virus, Langya, spread by shrews, caused an outbreak in which 35 people got sick – although they all recovered.

    So far, other henipaviruses haven’t caused human infections, but the potential is there.

    The rapid growth in our understanding of these viruses comes from improvements in technology and global efforts to study diseases. But it also reminds us that viruses can suddenly jump from animals to humans in unpredictable ways.

    Whether a virus can harm humans depends on how well it can infect human cells, and how badly it affects the body. Some viruses cause mild symptoms, while others can lead to life-threatening diseases. Studying these viruses requires scientists to look closely at their genetic code and run laboratory tests to understand how they work.

    Henipaviruses can infect many animals, including bats, horses, monkeys, dogs, cats and even rodents. This means they are more adaptable and have a higher chance of jumping from animals to humans in different ways. In comparison, a virus like measles can only infect humans, which makes it less likely to spread to other species.

    No drugs or vaccines … yet

    There is no cure for henipavirus infections, but researchers are working on a vaccine for Nipah virus. Some new treatments, such as monoclonal antibodies, are also being developed but aren’t ready for use yet. This makes Nipah and Hendra viruses major public health concerns. The World Health Organization has called for more research to help fight them.

    While there’s no evidence that Camp Hill virus has infected any humans yet – and the chances of it doing so are low – its discovery in North America is a reminder that viruses can emerge anywhere. Even though shrews usually live in forests and don’t come into much contact with people, the potential for the virus to spread remains a worry.

    The more we learn about these viruses, the better we’ll be at creating vaccines that can protect us from both known and new threats. Keeping up with research and staying prepared is crucial to protecting global health from future outbreaks.

    Shirin Ashraf 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. Camp Hill virus explained: what are the risks of a henipavirus outbreak in America? – https://theconversation.com/camp-hill-virus-explained-what-are-the-risks-of-a-henipavirus-outbreak-in-america-249183

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Five ways that illustrations can tell climate justice stories

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Andi Misbahul Pratiwi, PhD Candidate, School of Geography, University of Leeds

    Climate change is often communicated through scientific reports, statistics and policy discussions. However, these technical approaches can be inaccessible to the public, failing to capture the experiences of those most affected.

    Climate narratives structured as stories that involve emotional engagement and personal anecdotes are more effective at mobilising communities, influencing policy and promoting pro-environmental actions across diverse audiences. By blending art with storytelling, illustrations can make complex environmental issues, such as climate justice, much more accessible to the general public.

    Illustrations are not just artistic expressions. They can amplify the voices of affected communities and help make the case for climate justice. In an era where climate action is urgent, harnessing the power of illustration can be transformative. It can challenge dominant narratives while creating more inclusive and participatory ways of understanding climate action.

    I have been collaborating with Puspita Bahari, an Indonesian fisherwomen’s movement to develop ways to communicate the effects of tidal floods and the importance of feminist solidarity. For my PhD research, I spent seven months carrying out fieldwork in three coastal villages in Demak, Central Java, Indonesia. This involved interviews, observations and creative workshops with the community.

    By drawing on 38 women’s firsthand experiences, we have published an illustrated book: Tidal Floods: Women, Fisheries, and Climate Crisis in Indonesia (2024). This story about Indonesia’s fisherwomen explores the intersections of gender, environmental change, activism and the future of the country’s coastal regions. Here are five ways that collaborative illustrations can be used to tell female-led climate justice stories:

    1. Intersectional narration

    The effects of tidal flooding on Indonesian women vary depending on location, livelihood, age and disability status. Along the coastline, women in Indonesia are involved in selling fish, processing seafood and fishing at sea, alongside domestic work.

    This book does not depict women as having a single, monolithic identity. Instead, the images portray their varied realities. These shape how they experience climate injustice and how pre-existing inequalities reproduce new climate injustices.

    Intersectional narration is storytelling that captures how different aspects of identity overlap to shape people’s experiences in complex ways. Using this, various issues such as economic hardship, domestic violence, sexual reproductive health, physical and mental health can be better represented.

    The image below illustrates these challenges. A woman with a disability is unable to use her wheelchair because the village is sinking. A pregnant woman struggles to access healthcare facilities. Fisherwomen face declining incomes due to environmental and economic pressures.

    2. Body maps

    To understand the complexity of climate impacts, I worked with women to draw body maps. As they annotated each picture, fisherwomen shared their embodied experiences of living with tidal floods as an everyday disaster.

    Body mapping is an intimate cartographic process that involves tracing the body and visually exploring one’s lived experience. This method goes beyond textual and oral narratives. It helps women recall and record body memories that might otherwise remain unspoken.

    Their body maps are not just research artefacts. They have been translated into powerful visuals so their personal stories can be shared in this book. The picture above illustrates one fisherwoman’s daily struggles, physical and physiological burdens – so the image reveals the complex, gendered, and intersectional effects of tidal floods.

    3. Historical context

    Certain pictures show how the coastal landscapes are rapidly changing and how villages are sinking at an alarming rate. This historical context is not only drawn from women’s oral narratives but also from past photo albums shared by the community.

    The picture below illustrates the landscape change over 20 years, from rice fields to tidal floodwaters.

    4. Movement and agency

    Beyond documenting vulnerabilities and the social, ecological and economic effects of climate change on women, this book shows how these women have agency. This manifests in various ways, from small acts of resilience to broader feminist solidarity.

    When they work together as a community, women can adapt through collective action. This includes planting crops, building cooperatives and holding demonstrations. Stories can play a role in moving beyond positioning women not just as victims but as people with valuable knowledge and the ability to assert their agency and drive sustainable climate action.

    5. Reflection and collective ownership

    In an era defined by uncertainty and rapid change, the ability to pause and reflect on climate justice is more valuable than ever. Certain images actively encourage readers to reflect on more tech-driven and infrastructure-focused responses to the climate crisis.

    The final pages include questions that prompt critical thinking about the links between gender, climate justice and activism. For example, “what do you think will happen if we do not address the climate crisis?”

    Rather than extracting knowledge from women, especially those in Global South countries, this book is co-created. Fisherwomen’s voices and narratives are central to the storytelling process. By reclaiming conversations about climate change that are often dominated by international forums, we can hear and learn from the people who are most affected. And hopefully inspire more climate advocacy and grassroots action.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    The creation of this book was funded by the GENERATE Project as part of a United Kingdom Research and Innovation (UKRI) Future Leaders Fellowship at the University of Leeds: www.generateproject.org.

    – ref. Five ways that illustrations can tell climate justice stories – https://theconversation.com/five-ways-that-illustrations-can-tell-climate-justice-stories-249104

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Suspected E. coli cluster probed

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) today said it is looking into a suspected Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) infection cluster involving three doctors at Princess Margaret Hospital’s Oncology Department.

    One of the doctors passed away on February 7.

    After receiving notification from the hospital yesterday, the CHP, together with representatives from the hospital and Hong Kong University Chair of Infectious Diseases Prof Yuen Kwok-yung, inspected the workplace of the Oncology Department and other facilities of the hospital this morning.

    Initial investigations revealed that the three doctors developed symptoms on February 4, 6 and 10, CHP Communicable Disease Branch Head Dr Albert Au said.

    “Symptoms included fever, abdominal pain and diarrhea.

    “One of them, who had the onset of symptoms on February 4, was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital for treatment on February 6 and passed away the following day. The other two affected individuals had mild symptoms.”

    Preliminary test results showed that the stool specimen from one of them tested positive for STEC, while those of the other two, including the deceased patient, tested negative.

    “Taking into account the clinical and epidemiological information, the CHP tentatively believed that the cluster may be associated with STEC infection.”

    While the CHP’s epidemiological and environmental investigations are ongoing, it will continue to collaborate with the Hospital Authority and the University of Hong Kong’s Department of Microbiology to trace the potential source of infection.

    Meanwhile, Princess Margaret Hospital has strengthened the monitoring of the gastrointestinal symptoms among its staff and requested that any staff with relevant symptoms report immediately for laboratory tests. It has also arranged a comprehensive disinfection of the oncology office area.

    Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau expressed profound sadness over the passing of the oncologist.

    Prof Lo said: “I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the doctor’s family on behalf of the Health Bureau, and the Hospital Authority will make every effort to assist them.”

    The young doctor had been working for the Hospital Authority since graduation from medical school to serve Hong Kong citizens.

    Prof Lo pointed out that the doctor, having just obtained a specialist qualification in oncology, was still taking care of patients in the ward right before the onset of symptoms.

    “I am deeply moved by the doctor’s professionalism, passion for work and care for patients. The doctor is genuinely a role model for colleagues of the healthcare profession.”

    In general, STEC infections are usually associated with the consumption of contaminated food or water, such as raw or undercooked meat products, contaminated fruits and vegetables, and unpasteurised dairy products. Direct person-to-person transmission through the faecal-oral route can also occur.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Saving Lives, Delivering the Future: Heroes in Uniform and Scrubs

    Source: United States Navy (Medical)

    Story by: Chiara M. Caputo

    U.S. Navy Medicine and Training Command (USNMRTC) Sigonella highlights the accomplishments of three remarkable physicians who have dedicated their lives to serving both their patients and their country. These leaders in military medicine embody the values of innovation, resilience, and selfless service.

    Through their tireless efforts, these physicians have not only advanced medical care within the Military Health System but have also paved the way for future generations of leaders in medicine and the armed forces. Each of their stories highlights a profound commitment to excellence and a passion for making a difference, whether on the battlefield, in clinics, or through groundbreaking research.

    We honor their contributions and celebrate their unwavering dedication to health care, military service, and the pursuit of a healthier, stronger future. Through their stories, we hope to inspire future generations and showcase the unwavering commitment of these women in uniform and in diverse roles in Navy Medicine.

    Brandi L Sakai, MD
    Commander, USN
    Board Certified Emergency Medicine Physician

    Born in Welsh, Louisiana, on June 6, 1981, Cmdr. Sakai grew up with a passion for science and the ocean. After graduating from the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts in 1998, she pursued marine biology, studying diverse ecosystems from the marshes of Louisiana to Scotland’s marine mammals and the vibrant reefs of the Virgin Islands. Her work at the Roy L. Schneider Hospital’s barometric pressure chamber sparked her drive to combine science with service, graduating cum laude with a B.S. in Biology.

    In 2005, she commissioned in the Navy through the Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) and began medical school at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center. Hurricane Katrina hit during her training, and Commander Sakai worked tirelessly in pop-up clinics, providing care and vaccinations to displaced communities. This experience shaped her dedication to serving others in times of crisis.
    Her Navy career has been marked by leadership and innovation. From integrating Marine medical services in Japan to creating advanced training programs for shock trauma care, she has consistently raised the bar for military medicine. As the Senior Medical Officer in Okinawa and later the Department Head of Emergency Medicine in Guantanamo Bay, she improved operations, ensured top-tier care, and earned recognition for her commitment to excellence.

    Beyond her professional achievements, Commander Sakai is a certified Emergency Medicine Diplomate and a devoted wife and mother of two. When she’s not scuba diving, sailing, or baking, she’s embracing projects that reflect her passion for problem-solving and innovation.

    Reflecting on her career, Cmdr. Sakai shared, “I had many jobs that many would consider a career. I was a PADI scuba instructor and manager of the storefront of a tour operation in St. Thomas US Virgin Islands (USVI). If you took a cruise to the island, you walked past our store on the docks. We may have said hello two decades ago! After doing the job for 5 years, I felt that I had learned all that I could, and there was no chance for advancement based on performance, so I knew that I needed something new and challenging. After getting my degree in Marine Biology and presenting environmental research to the Senate on USVI fisheries and the impact of hotel expansion, I realized that I enjoyed talking and educating people one-on-one, and speaking to rooms and presenting posters wasn’t going to make me happy. I volunteered at the local Emergency Department, and the variety and mental challenge of solving a puzzle on every patient kept me coming back. I decided to turn it into a career, but I also hated to stay in one place (there was a big wide world to explore), so I joined the Navy and never looked back. I did a General Surgery internship, and the Chaplain and I were the only Naval Officers in my first duty with the Marines in Iwakuni, Japan for 3 years. Being part of the Marines for 3 years to start my career really shaped me and set the tone for all my OCONUS tours since. My husband was an Ombudsman and found a great career as a financial educator that allows him to work virtually. If you need advice on mainland Japan, Korea, Okinawa, or Guantanamo Bay, or love medicine and want to explore your options give me a ring.”

    Meagan G. Chauvin, MD, FACOG
    Lieutenant Commander, USN
    Director of Medical Services/Staff Attending OBGYN

    A Houston, Texas native, Lt. Cmdr. Meagan Chauvin has built a remarkable career in military medicine. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with Distinction from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2010, she completed her Medical Doctorate at the University of Texas Medical School at Houston in 2014. She completed her Obstetrics and Gynecology residency in 2018 at Naval Medical Center San Diego.

    Her first assignment as a staff OB/GYN took her to Naval Hospital Guam, where she led the OB/GYN Clinic as Department Head and earned Board Certification in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Later, at Fort Belvoir Community Hospital in Virginia, she became Department Chief of the Women’s Health Clinic, further demonstrating her leadership and dedication to women’s health.

    Now serving as the Director of Medical Services at Naval Hospital Sigonella in Italy, Lt. Cmdr. Chauvin continues to lead with excellence. Among her awards are the Defense Meritorious Service Medal and the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal.

    Lt. Cmdr. Chauvin is also a proud wife to Matthew Gerard Chauvin and mom to three children—EJ, Madeline, and Ellie—balancing her professional success with a fulfilling family life. Reflecting on her career, LCDR Chauvin shared, “I was inspired to become an OBGYN, because I loved taking care of women across their lifespan and developing long-term relationships with my patients. In addition, I love welcoming babies into the world and being part of helping patients grow their families. I joined the Navy after being inspired by classmates from high school who also went to service academies. The Naval Academy was an amazing experience that led me to the most important job I can imagine, supporting Navy women and families as an OBGYN. I am proud to follow in the Navy tradition of my great grandfather, who served on a troop transport ship in WWI, and my grandfather, who joined via the Navy V-12 program during WWII.”

    Kristen Shafer, MC
    Lieutenant, USN
    Emergency Medicine Attending

    Born in New York, New York, Lt. Shafer discovered her passion for science and outreach early in life. After earning her bachelor’s degree in chemistry pre-medicine at Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 2014, she brought the wonders of chemistry to life for local elementary students through her self-created Chemistry Magic Show.

    In 2015, she pursued her Master of Science in Space Physiology and Health at King’s College London, where her thesis explored visual function and impairment in dynamic environments. She collaborated with the United Kingdom space program’s Mission X initiative, blending her love of science with public engagement.

    Lt. Shafer joined the Navy through the HPSP program and earned her Doctor of Medicine from Stony Brook University in 2020, graduating early to assist with the initial surge of COVID-19 patients in New York. She went on to complete her Emergency Medicine Residency at USNMRTC Portsmouth in 2024, where she expanded Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) outreach programs, inspiring over 300 high school students annually.

    Now an Emergency Medicine Attending at USNMRTC Sigonella, Lt. Shafer continues her commitment to both medicine and mentorship. As Emergency Response Committee Chair, she oversees emergency preparedness, and as a liaison to local DoDEA schools, she is developing a mentorship program to introduce students to healthcare careers and military opportunities.

    With a passion for outreach and academic medicine, LT Shafer embodies the Navy’s mission to serve both on and off the field, inspiring the next generation of leaders. Reflecting on her career in emergency medicine, Lt. Shafer said, “In emergency medicine, we need to be ready for whatever comes in the door at any time. Military medicine lets me practice that medicine and be comfortable providing care not just at any time, but any place in the world and to a population that is dedicated to serving others and making a difference.”

    USNMRTC Sigonella is one of The Defense Health Agency’s Overseas Military Treatment Facilities (MTF). The staff are comprised of active duty service members, General Service (GS), contractors, and Local Nationals. It ensures maximum readiness by providing high-quality, safe patient and family-centered care to maximize force health protection for all beneficiaries, to included NATO and transient DoD forces in the U.S. Fifth Fleet and U.S. Sixth Fleet areas of operation.

    The U. S. Naval Academy (USNA) offers a variety of academic curriculums that prepare their graduates for a rewarding military career. Graduates of the USNA will accept a commission for 5 years of active duty service in the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps. For more information regarding the USNA visit: https://www.usna.edu/homepage.php.

    If you are already in or plan to attend school to be a physician, dentist, optometrist, physician assistant or clinical psychologist, the Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) will pay your educationally based tuition and fees for up to four years of school and provide a monthly stipend paid directly to you. After graduation, you’ll join the Navy’s active duty team as a commissioned officer. In return, you agree to serve a minimum of 2 years on active duty or year for year of scholarship, whichever is longer.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Phobos Ransomware Affiliates Arrested in Coordinated International Disruption

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WASHINGTON — The Justice Department today unsealed criminal charges against Roman Berezhnoy, 33, and Egor Nikolaevich Glebov, 39, both Russian nationals, who allegedly operated a cybercrime group using the Phobos ransomware that victimized more than 1,000 public and private entities in the United States and around the world and received over $16 million in ransom payments. Berezhnoy and Glebov were arrested yesterday as part of a coordinated international disruption of their organization, which includes additional arrests and the technical disruption of the group’s computer infrastructure.

    From May 2019, through at least October 2024, Berezhnoy, Glebov, and others allegedly caused victims to suffer losses resulting from the loss of access to their data in addition to the financial losses associated with the ransomware payments. The victims included a children’s hospital, health care providers, and educational institutions.

    According to court documents, Berezhnoy, Glebov, and others operated a ransomware affiliate organization, including under the names “8Base” and “Affiliate 2803,” among others, that victimized public and private entities through the deployment of Phobos ransomware.

    As part of the scheme, Berezhnoy, Glebov, and others allegedly hacked into victim computer networks, copied and stole files and programs on the victims’ network, and encrypted the original versions of the stolen data with Phobos ransomware. The conspirators then allegedly extorted the victims for ransom payments in exchange for the decryption keys to regain access to the encrypted data by, among other things, leaving a ransom note on compromised victim computers and separately reaching out to victims to initiate ransom payment negotiations.

    As alleged, the conspirators also threatened to expose victims’ stolen files to the public or to the victims’ clients, customers, or constituents if the ransoms were not paid. The conspirators are further alleged to have established and operated a darknet website where they repeated their extortionate threats and ultimately published the stolen data if a victim failed to pay the ransom.

    After a successful Phobos ransomware attack, criminal affiliates paid fees to Phobos administrators for a decryption key to regain access to the encrypted files. Each deployment of Phobos ransomware was assigned a unique alphanumeric string in order to match it to the corresponding decryption key, and each affiliate was directed to pay the decryption key fee to a cryptocurrency wallet unique to that affiliate.

    The charges unsealed today against Berezhnoy and Glebov follow the recent arrest and extradition of Evgenii Ptitsyn, a Russian national, on charges relating to his alleged administration of the Phobos ransomware variant.

    In parallel with today’s arrests, Europol and German authorities have announced an international operation involving the FBI and other international law enforcement partners to disrupt over 100 servers associated with this criminal network.

    Berezhnoy and Glebov are charged in an 11-count indictment with one count of wire fraud conspiracy, one count of wire fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit computer fraud and abuse, three counts of causing intentional damage to protected computers, three counts of extortion in relation to damage to a protected computer, one count of transmitting a threat to impair the confidentiality of stolen data, and one count of unauthorized access and obtaining information from a protected computer. If convicted, Berezhnoy and Glebov face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on each wire fraud-related count; 10 years in prison on each computer damage count; and five years in prison on each of the other counts. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Erek L. Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland; Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; and Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the FBI Baltimore Field Office, made the announcement.

    The FBI Baltimore Field Office is investigating the case. The Justice Department extends its thanks to international judicial and law enforcement partners in the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, Spain, Belgium, Poland, Czech Republic, France, Thailand, Finland, and Romania, as well as Europol and the U.S. Department of Defense Cyber Crime Center, for their cooperation and coordination with the Phobos ransomware investigation. The Justice Department’s National Security Division and Office of International Affairs also provided valuable assistance.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas M. Sullivan for the District of Maryland and Senior Counsel Aarash A. Haghighat of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) are prosecuting the case. Former CCIPS Trial Attorney Riane Harper and former Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron S.J. Zelinsky and Jeffrey J. Izant for the District of Maryland provided substantial assistance.

    Additional details on protecting networks against Phobos ransomware are available at StopRansomware.gov, including Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency Advisory AA24-060A.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Thales and Bharat Dynamics Ltd Agree on Initial Supply of Man Portable Air Defence systems to India

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Thales and Bharat Dynamics Ltd Agree on Initial Supply of Man Portable Air Defence systems to India

    • Thales and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) will provide a first supply of Laser Beam Riding MANPAD (LBRM) Very Short Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) Missiles and launchers to the Indian Ministry of Defence. This is a major success, following on from the signing of the Partnership Agreement in 2021 between Thales and BDL to work on the LBRM, with the support of the Indian and UK Governments.
    • This agreement will improve India’s Air Defence capabilities to enable them to enhance their national security with a highly accurate and countermeasure-resistant up-to-date technology.
    • LBRM, manufactured up to 60% in India, are short-range, man-portable, air-defence systems and optimised to provide defence against air threats, including fixed-wing Fighter Ground Attack aircraft and late unmasking Attack Helicopters, as well as drones.
    ©Thales

    Bengaluru, 10 February 2025: Thales and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) are proud to announce the signing of an initial supply of Laser Beam Riding Man Portable Air Defence systems (LBRM) in response to a requirement set out by the Indian Government to support India’s air defence capabilities.

    This initial supply of High Velocity Missiles (STARStreak) and launchers will be delivered this year and represents the first time that India has received this latest VSHORAD capability. This step confirms the foundation of a long-term collaboration and manufacturing partnership between Thales and BDL. In the spirit of the ‘Make in India’ initiative, this partnership will serve the current and future requirements of the Indian Ministry of Defence.

    Thales, together with BDL, is committed to the transfer of technology (ToT) of battle proven capabilities to India to equip the Indian Armed Forces.

    This contract represents the first major agreement since the establishment of the United Kingdom’s Defence Partnership-India, a bespoke programme office breaking down barriers to trade and offering government-to-government contracting, where appropriate, further solidifying the defence and security relationship between the two nations. This contract also reflects Thales’ long-term partnership of 70+ years with India, serving as a testimony to its continued growth.

    A production partnership with India will also increase UK production at the Thales Belfast site, where LBRM is designed.

    Lord Vernon Coaker, Minister of State for Defence, said: “This exciting collaboration is just one of the ways that we are growing our defence relationship and partnership with India. While supporting India’s air defence capability and global security, this agreement also demonstrates defence as an engine for growth and delivers on the government’s Plan for Change.”

    “This is a momentous occasion for all the stakeholders involved in the development of LBRM Air Defence solutions. It signifies the beginning of an exciting chapter in our collaboration with BDL, contributing to the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision. The UK-India strategic partnership finds renewed strength through this contract, which is poised to make a significant impact in the domain of air defence in India.” declared Pascale Sourisse, President & CEO, Thales International.

    “We are pleased to take our collaboration with Thales to this next significant step, enhancing our contribution to the defence ecosystem and our ability to support existing and future LBRM Air Defence customers. This initiative aligns perfectly with our Government’s ‘Make in India,’ ‘ease of doing business,’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ programmes, giving a major boost to the local industry through partnerships with global organisations like Thales.” said Cmde A Madhavarao (retd.), Chairman and Managing Director, Bharat Dynamics Limited.

    “The signing of this contract with BDL and Thales to support India’s air defence capability is a huge stride forward in strengthening our partnership with India. I am proud to see that Thales’ expertise in the domain of Air defence will bring vital, battle proven capabilities to India.” said Phil Siveter, CEO of Thales in the UK.

    About LBRM

    High Velocity Missiles (STARStreak) are a truly versatile, complex weapon system. Designed for very short-range air defence, they are the fastest missiles in their class at Mach >3.0. They are best suited to address late unmasking threats such as fixed and rotary wing targets, Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and pop-up attack helicopters.

    Thales is a world leader in the provision of Air Defence solutions and in particular of complex weapon systems and has been a trusted partner of forces in this field for more than 60 years.

    About Thales

    Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies specialized in three business domains: Defence & Security, Aerospace, and Cyber & Digital.

    It develops products and solutions that help make the world safer, greener and more inclusive.

    The Group invests close to €4 billion a year in Research & Development, particularly in key innovation areas such as AI, cybersecurity, quantum technologies, cloud technologies and 6G.

    Thales has close to 81,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2023, the Group generated sales of €18.4 billion.

    About BDL

    BDL, right from its inception in the year 1970, has been in the forefront of Defence Technology to manufacture state of the art, cost-effective Missile systems, underwater weapons and allied defence equipment to the Indian Armed Forces. With the domain expertise, BDL participates in the indigenously developed missile programs by DRDO, ToT from Foreign OEMs or co-developed using in house R&D and manufactures the world class products for the domestic and international market.

    About Thales in India

    Present in India since 1953, Thales is headquartered in Noida and has other operational offices and sites spread across Delhi, Bengaluru and Mumbai, among others. Over 2200 employees are working with Thales and its joint ventures in India. Since the beginning, Thales has been playing an essential role in India’s growth story by sharing its technologies and expertise in Defence, Aerospace and Cyber & Digital markets. Thales has two engineering competence centres in India – one in Noida focused on Cyber & Digital business, while the one in Bengaluru focuses on hardware, software and systems engineering capabilities for both the civil and defence sectors, serving global needs.

    PRESS CONTACTS

    Bharat Dynamics Ltd

    Homnidhi Sharma

    +91 94939 84976

    bdlbd-pr@bdl-india.in

    Thales, Group Media Relations

    Defence

    Camille Heck

    +33 6 73 78 33 63

    camille.heck@thalesgroup.com

    Thales, Communications in India

    Pawandeep Kaur

    +91 9990098828

    pawandeep.kaur@thalesgroup.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Patrushev: Agricultural trade turnover between Russia and India increased by more than 60% in 2024

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Dmitry Patrushev held a working meeting with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of India to the Russian Federation Vinay Kumar

    February 11, 2025

    Dmitry Patrushev held a working meeting with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of India to the Russian Federation Vinay Kumar

    February 11, 2025

    Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of India to the Russian Federation Vinay Kumar

    February 11, 2025

    Dmitry Patrushev held a working meeting with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of India to the Russian Federation Vinay Kumar

    February 11, 2025

    Previous news Next news

    Dmitry Patrushev held a working meeting with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of India to the Russian Federation Vinay Kumar

    Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Dmitry Patrushev held a working meeting with Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of India to the Russian Federation Vinay Kumar. The meeting participants discussed the possibilities of cooperation between the two countries in the field of agriculture.

    “Trade in agricultural products and food between Russia and India is growing rapidly. Thus, last year, the turnover of agricultural products increased by more than 60%. We are interested in further development of mutual trade,” said Dmitry Patrushev.

    The Deputy Prime Minister added that Russia is ready to increase exports to India of vegetable oils, livestock and fish products, wheat and legumes and, in addition, is interested in importing Indian agricultural products, including fruits and vegetables.

    The meeting also discussed possible additional growth points for the development of bilateral cooperation.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addresses inaugural session of India Energy Week 2025

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 4:17PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi delivered his remarks at the inauguration of third edition of India Energy Week 2025 via video message today. Addressing the gathering at Yashobhoomi, he emphasized that the attendees are not just part of the Energy Week, but are also integral to India’s energy ambitions.

    India Energy Week was envisioned as more than just another industry conference—it was designed to be a dynamic platform redefining global energy dialogues. In just two years, this self-funded initiative has achieved precisely that, becoming the world’s second-largest energy event. IEW 2025, scheduled from February 11-14, 2025, at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi, represents a significant milestone in shaping the global energy narrative.

     

    Highlighting that experts worldwide are asserting that the 21st century belongs to India, Shri Modi remarked, “India is driving not only its growth but also the growth of the world, with the energy sector playing a significant role”. He emphasized that India’s energy ambitions are built on five pillars: harnessing resources, encouraging innovation among brilliant minds, economic strength and political stability, strategic geography making energy trade attractive and easier, and commitment to global sustainability. The Prime Minister noted that these factors are creating new opportunities in India’s energy sector.

    “India has grown from the tenth largest to the fifth largest economy in the past decade”, remarked Shri Modi. He highlighted that India’s solar energy generation capacity has increased thirty-two times in the last ten years, making it the third-largest solar power generating nation in the world. He noted that India’s non-fossil fuel energy capacity has tripled and that India is the first G20 country to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement. The Prime Minister emphasized India’s achievements in ethanol blending, with a current rate of nineteen percent, leading to foreign exchange savings, substantial farmer revenue, and significant reductions in CO2 emissions. He highlighted India’s goal of achieving a twenty percent ethanol mandate by October 2025. He remarked that India’s biofuels industry is ready for rapid growth, with 500 million metric tonnes of sustainable feedstock. He further noted that during India’s G20 presidency, the Global Biofuels Alliance was established and is continuously expanding, now involving 28 nations and 12 international organizations. He highlighted that this alliance is transforming waste into wealth and setting up Centers of Excellence.

    Highlighting that India is continuously reforming to fully explore the potential of its hydrocarbon resources, Shri Modi highlighted that major discoveries and extensive expansion of gas infrastructure are contributing to the growth of the gas sector, increasing the share of natural gas in India’s energy mix. He noted that India is currently the fourth largest refining hub and is working to increase its capacity by 20 percent.

    Pointing out that India’s sedimentary basins hold numerous hydrocarbon resources, some of which have already been identified, while others await exploration, the Prime Minister highlighted that to make India’s upstream sector more attractive, the Government introduced the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP). He emphasized that the Government has provided comprehensive support to the sector, including opening the Exclusive Economic Zone and establishing a single-window clearance system. Shri Modi noted that changes to the Oilfields Regulation & Development Act now offer stakeholders policy stability, extended leases, and improved financial terms. He emphasized that these reforms will facilitate the exploration of oil and gas resources in the maritime sector, increase production, and maintain strategic petroleum reserves.

    Prime Minister underlined that due to several discoveries and the expanding pipeline infrastructure in India, the supply of natural gas is increasing. He emphasized that this will lead to a rise in the utilization of natural gas in the near future. He also highlighted that there are numerous investment opportunities in these sectors.

    Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas, in his address at the event, highlighted the growing significance of the event, which has rapidly become the second-largest energy conference in the world in just three years. This year’s edition has drawn over 70,000 energy professionals from more than 50 countries, including over 20 Ministers and 100 CEOs from Fortune 500 energy companies, making it a key forum 6for discussions on the evolving global energy landscape.

    Shri Puri underscored that IEW 2025 comes at a crucial juncture amid major geopolitical shifts that have reshaped the global energy order. He stressed that the conference offers a unique opportunity for policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue, exchange ideas, and chart a course for a balanced and inclusive energy transition. While reaffirming India’s commitment to sustainability, he emphasized that the transition must be pragmatic, recognizing the continued role of hydrocarbons alongside renewables, hydrogen, and biofuels. He cited the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) projection of global energy investment surpassing USD 3 trillion in 2024, with USD 2 trillion dedicated to clean energy technologies, as a clear indication of the accelerating shift toward cleaner energy sources.

    The Minister highlighted India’s leadership in driving energy innovation and entrepreneurship, noting that major global energy firms like BP, Shell, ExxonMobil, and Chevron operate Global Capability Centres in India, employing thousands of Indian engineers to develop cutting-edge solutions for energy efficiency, data analytics, and sustainable operations. He also acknowledged the role of 500+ entrepreneurs participating in start-up challenges such as Avinya and Vasudha, and the 700 exhibiting companies, including over 100 start-ups, showcasing AI-driven energy solutions, quantum computing applications, and advancements in biofuels and battery technologies.

    A key theme of his address was energy justice, where he warned against fragmented energy policies that could deepen inequality by leaving developing economies behind in the transition. He emphasized the need for resilient supply chains in critical minerals, semiconductors, and emerging energy technologies, calling for global collaboration to prevent disruptions that could hinder progress. He also pointed out that India is strategically investing in diverse energy sources, including scaling up biofuel production, increasing its gas share from 6% to 15%, and targeting 5 million metric tonnes of hydrogen production by 2030 to ensure a smooth transition without compromising energy security.

    Concluding his remarks, Shri Puri urged all stakeholders to leverage India Energy Week as a platform for forging transformative partnerships and shaping the global energy agenda. He invited the 6,000+ delegates to engage in the conference’s discussions over the next four days, focusing on strategies to stabilize energy markets, drive technological advancements, and enhance international cooperation. With India playing an increasingly central role in the global energy ecosystem, IEW 2025 is set to be a landmark event for defining the future of energy.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: New device enables smart windows to change color without external power source

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 4:13PM by PIB Delhi

    Researchers have developed a new generation of smart windows with advanced self-charging, color-responsive technology with integrated energy storage.

    Conventional smart windows are only capable of modulating the transmission of light. Researchers have made a significant leap in smart window technology by developing innovative windows that not only change color but also possess self-rechargeable capabilities, making them a promising addition to modern buildings. These smart windows enhance aesthetics by seamlessly switching colors while simultaneously storing energy, a feature that could revolutionize energy efficiency in architecture.

    For decades, the quest to fabricate functional windows has focused on boosting performance and adding new functionalities. However, when it comes to windows with energy storage and rechargeable capabilities, challenges like cyclic stability and the need for external power have restricted their widespread adoption.

    Addressing these issues, researchers from the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS), an autonomous institution under the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in Bengaluru, India, have developed a device that enables smart windows to change color without requiring an external power source.

    A team led by Dr. Ashutosh Kumar Singh explored the integration of zinc-ion (Zn2+) battery concept in smart windows, utilizing tungsten oxide (WO3) as the primary active material in a paper published in the journal Energy Storage Materials.

    A major finding of the study is the successful use of spray coating of tungsten oxide with ethanol as a solvent, which resulted in superior uniformity and film quality, due to the Marangoni flow effect (isphenomenon of a liquid moving from areas of low surface tension to high surface tension, in the way soap makes water flow away from dirty spots). Additionally, the incorporation of hybrid Zn-K electrolytes significantly enhanced both the electrochromic and electrochemical performance of the devices, achieving a high transmittance modulation of 50% and impressive cyclic stability lasting up to 10000 seconds.

    The team successfully developed and tested a prototype device using the optimized WO3sample and Zn-K electrolytes. The prototype demonstrated remarkable cyclic stability over 3000 cycles, rapid self-charging within 10 minutes, and reversible optical modulation of 40%, highlighting its potential for sustainable energy storage in future smart electronic applications.

    This research represents a significant advancement in smart window technology, emphasizing the potential of WO3-based materials to create energy-efficient and sustainable electronic solutions. The findings pave the way for integrating these devices into smart electronics, potentially powered by renewable energy sources, marking a major step forward in the pursuit of sustainable energy solutions and demonstrating the practical utility of transparent batteries in modern technology.

    Figure: Schematic representation of hybrid electrolyte. Configuration of an electrochromic battery (left), a visual representation of the device in charged and discharged states (right).

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SETTING UP OF FLOATING JETTIES

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 4:11PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is actively promoting the establishment of floating jetties across various locations in India. These initiatives aim to enhance infrastructure for both fishing activities, tourism and cargo transport. A total of 50 locations in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala have been identified for implementation under Phase I of floating jetties projects out of which 12 locations in Andhra Pradesh are floating jetties related to fisheries. The details are at Annexure.

    Floating jetties can significantly benefit both fishermen and cargo transport. For fishermen, they provide stable docking in varying water levels, enabling year-round access to the water, reducing downtime caused by tides, and improving safety and convenience for unloading catch. For cargo transport, floating jetties offer flexibility in accommodating different vessel sizes, enhancing port capacity and efficiency, and supporting both small-scale and large-scale shipping. This infrastructure boosts logistics, reduces congestion at fixed docks, and facilitates smoother, uninterrupted operations.

    This information was given by the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal in Rajya Sabha, today.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HIGH PRIORITY PROJECTS UNDER SAGARMALA

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 4:09PM by PIB Delhi

    The Sagarmala programme is the flagship programme of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways to promote port-led development in the country through harnessing India’s 7,500 km long coastline, 14,500 km of potentially navigable waterways and strategic location on key international maritime trade routes. As a part of Sagarmala Programme, around 839 projects at an estimated cost of around 5.5 lakh crore have been identified for implementation. These projects are implemented by Central Ministries, IWAI, Indian Railways, NHAI, State Government and Major Ports etc. As of now, 272 projects have been completed, which account for an investment of approximately Rs. 1.41 lakh crores.

    For timely execution of projects, Ministry on regular intervals interacts with State Maritime Boards (SMBs)/State Govts/UTs’Administration/Central Line Ministries by organizing project based and State level meetings to understand their concerns and aiding to resolve the issues concerning Government of India in timely manner. Ministry from time to time holds Maritime States Development Council (MSDC) meetings and also encourage coastal States/UTs to hold State Sagarmala Committee meetings for creating synergy among various stakeholders for expeditious implementation of Sagarmala projects. To date, twenty meetings of MSDC have been held with State Governments and other stakeholders. Further, at the top of the Sagarmala framework, a National Sagarmala Apex Committee has been constituted for overall policy guidance and high-level coordination, and to review aspect of planning and implementation of the plan and projects.

    Sagarmala Programme core focus is economic and infrastructural development, which has indirect strategic significance. By modernizing and expanding Indian ports, India strengthens its position in the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean region. The programme aims to boost maritime trade within India and internationally, improving its standing as a global maritime hub, which directly competes with neighbouring countries.

    This information was given by the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal in Rajya Sabha, today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LOGISTICS PERFORMANCE INDEX

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 4:08PM by PIB Delhi

    As per the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI), 2023 India moved up to 22nd Rank in the Global Ranking in International Shipments category and the Overall 38th Rank in Logistics Performance Index score. Indian Ports have registered quantum improvement in “Turn Around Time”. Global comparison of Indian Ports on “Turn Around Time” parameter, as published in World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI) Report-2023, acknowledges Indian Ports “Turn Around Time” as 0.9 days which is better than USA (1.5 days), Australia (1.7 days), Belgium (1.3 days), Canada (2.0 days), Germany (1.3 days), UAE (1.1 days), Singapore (1.0 days), Russian Federation (1.8 days), Malaysia (1.0 days), Ireland (1.2 days), Indonesia (1.1 days), New Zealand (1.1 days) and South Africa (2.8 days).

    The Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 was developed in alignment with the principles of the blue economy. It outlines long-term aspirations for India’s maritime sector and provides a broad action plan for implementation. The vision aims to transform the sector through various key initiatives, including the expansion of port capacity through greenfield and brownfield developments, enhancing operational efficiency by leveraging automation and digitization, and making the sector more sustainable through green initiatives such as the development of hydrogen hubs. In addition to sustainability, the vision emphasizes the development of islands and the cruise sector, aiming to boost coastal tourism and related infrastructure. It also focuses on strengthening maritime capacity building by enhancing workforce training and skill development. Furthermore, the vision aspires to elevate India’s global maritime presence by increasing participation in international maritime platforms. Another critical area of focus is the shipbuilding and repair sector. The vision seeks to position India as a global leader in shipbuilding while also working toward increasing the country’s shipping tonnage. To achieve these ambitious objectives, the strategy proposes a comprehensive set of interventions spanning infrastructure development, policy reforms, technological advancements, institutional strengthening, and regulatory enhancements.

    GMIS 2023 attracted investment commitment of ₹10 lakh crore. This includes signing of 360 MoUs, with an investment commitment of ₹8.35 lakh crore (including international collaborations), and the announcement of additional investible projects worth ₹1.68 lakh crore.

    This information was given by the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal in Rajya Sabha, today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ENHANCING PORT EFFICIENCY

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 4:07PM by PIB Delhi

    During the year 2023-24, the Major Ports handled total cargo traffic of 820 million tonnes against a combined capacity of 1,630 million tonnes per annum, resulting in approximately 50% capacity utilization. From 2013-14 to 2023-24, the average turnaround time of Major Ports has decreased by an impressive 49%, while the average Output per Ship Berth Day has seen a significant rise of 52% during the same period. India’s logistics performance has significantly improved, rising to 38th position in the 2023 World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI), up from 54th in 2014. This progress is attributed to factors like reduced port dwell times, faster turnaround times and significant advancements in international shipment and delivery timeliness rankings.

    Infrastructure development and capacity augmentation of Major Ports is a continuous process. It involves construction of new berths and terminals, mechanization of existing berths and terminals, capital dredging for increasing drafts for attracting larger vessels, development of road, rail and waterways connectivity, etc. Further, Vadhavan Port in Maharashtra has been approved to be developed as the mega container port in the country catering the requirement of handling new generation mega size container vessels.

    This information was given by the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal in Rajya Sabha, today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DOUBLING CRUISE PASSENGER TRAFFIC

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 4:06PM by PIB Delhi

    The Cruise Bharat Mission (CBM), was launched by the Hon’ble Minister on 30th September 2024. CBM provides for a framework for inter-ministerial approach for crafting interventions along policy, regulatory, and other aspects governing cruise sector and enable responsible involvement of all regulatory agencies, such as Customs, Immigration, CISF, State Tourism Departments, State Maritime Agencies, District Administrations, and local police. The key performance indicator (KPI) in respect to cruise passenger, phase wise are as under:

    This information was given by the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal in Rajya Sabha, today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from areas in Poland, Korea and Australia suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Import of poultry meat and products from areas in Poland, Korea and Australia suspended
    Import of poultry meat and products from areas in Poland, Korea and Australia suspended
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         The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (February 11) that in view of notifications from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in Lipno District of Kujawsko-pomorskie Region in Poland, Hampyeong-gun of Jeollanam-do Province and Gumi-si of Gyeongsangbuk-do Province in Korea; and an outbreak of highly pathogenic H7N8 avian influenza in Strathbogie Shire of the State of Victoria in Australia, the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the above-mentioned areas with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.     A CFS spokesman said that according to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported about 6 600 tonnes of frozen poultry meat from Poland; about 80 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat, and about 21.9 million poultry eggs from Korea; and about 1 030 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat, and about 11.36 million poultry eggs from Australia last year.     “The CFS has contacted the Polish, Korean and Australian authorities over the issues and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreaks. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

     
    Ends/Tuesday, February 11, 2025Issued at HKT 18:32

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Raksha Mantri invites global community to co-develop & co-produce advanced systems in India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Raksha Mantri invites global community to co-develop & co-produce advanced systems in India

    Present global security scenario demands innovative approaches & stronger partnerships: Shri Rajnath Singh at Defence Ministers’ Conclave

    “India does not believe in transactional relationships; Its approach emphasises mutual capacity building, prosperity and security of partner nations”

    “Our commitment extends beyond Indian Ocean Region, it serves as a blueprint for fostering global partnerships on equality, trust, mutual respect & adherence to international law”

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 3:55PM by PIB Delhi

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has exhorted the global community to join India in the co-development and co-production of advanced systems, emphasising that the present global security scenario demands innovative approaches & stronger partnerships. He was addressing the Defence Ministers’ Conclave ‘Building Resilience through International Defence and Global Engagement (BRIDGE)’, organised as part of the 15th Aero India in Bengaluru, Karnataka on February 11, 2025. The event witnessed the participation of over 162 delegates from 81 countries, including 15 Defence Ministers, 11 Deputy Defence Ministers, 15 Permanent Secretaries, and 17 Service Chiefs.

    “Increasing number of conflicts, new power plays, new methods & means of weaponisation, growing role of non-state actors and the emergence of disruptive technologies have made the world order more fragile. The distinction between border security and internal security is getting blurred as hybrid warfare has the ability to target critical national infrastructure even during peace time. Cyberspace and Outer space are challenging the established definition of sovereignty,” said Raksha Mantri.

    Shri Rajnath Singh added that disruptive technologies such as Al, quantum technologies, hypersonic and directed energy are transforming the character of warfare, creating new vulnerabilities. He stressed that these changes would have a deep impact on future warfare, forcing reassessment of the capabilities required to meet the challenges.

    Raksha Mantri pointed out that international order and peace cannot be ensured from a position of weakness, and the Government of India, under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, is leaving no stone unturned to transform defence capabilities. “We have put in place a conducive policy regime which encourages investment and production of an entire range of modern state-of-the-art land, maritime & air systems. India’s emergence as a global hub for R&D and innovation in defence is a testament to our capabilities and aspirations,” he said.

    Shri Rajnath Singh said India possesses a vibrant defence start-up ecosystem which has the third largest number of unicorns in the world. He highlighted the unparalleled opportunities for collaboration offered by the thriving Indian aerospace and defence sectors, supported by a significant R&D base and an entrepreneurial spirit. “Our skill base enables us to produce at highly competitive costs. India is committed to share state-of-the-art defence equipment, hardware, services, and technology with our friends and partners,” he told the Defence Ministers and other foreign delegates.

    Raksha Mantri voiced India’s vision of peace, security and development, which is inclusive & collaborative, stating that it is guided by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s dynamic five ‘S’ approach: Samman (Respect), Samvaad (Dialogue), Sahyog (Cooperation), Shanti (Peace) and Samriddhi (Prosperity). These principles, he added, form the cornerstone of India’s international engagements and resonate strongly in today’s world, which is increasingly witnessing divisions.

    Shri Rajnath Singh asserted that India has embraced the vision of  ‘Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)’ for the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), focussing on key areas such as maritime security, economic development and blue economy. He added that India’s collaborative efforts in combating non-traditional threats such as piracy, terrorism, illegal & unregulated fishing, and climate-related challenges underline the commitment for global cooperative action beyond IOR. “Our commitment extends beyond IOR and serves as a blueprint for fostering global partnerships built on equality, trust, mutual respect, and adherence to international law,” he said.

    Raksha Mantri laid stress on the fact that India does not believe in transactional relationships or imposing solutions, and its approach emphasises on mutual capacity building, prosperity and security for the sovereignty of partner nations. He stated that the aim is to empower its partners to chart their own paths, through support that aligns with their national priorities. He described equitable partnership as the foundation of defence collaboration, whether it involves supplying Indian-made ships and aircraft, sharing expertise or conducting joint training programmes.

    Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted that India’s position as a preferred partner for defence exports is reinforced by its adherence to quality, reliability, and commitment to the specific needs of partners. “Our defence industry is well-equipped to meet diverse requirements from cutting-edge technology to cost-effective solutions. We take pride in offering customised support that strengthens the capabilities of our partner nations, enabling them to address their security challenges effectively,” he said.

    Raksha Mantri termed the BRIDGE initiative as the commitment to transforming dialogue into actionable outcomes, fostering partnerships that are resilient, adaptable, and forward-looking. Challenges ranging from terrorism and cyber-crime to humanitarian crises and climate-induced disasters transcend borders, and they demand a united response.

    During the meeting, the Defence Ministers lauded the efforts of Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence for organising Aero India and providing an opportunity to world-class manufacturers for showcasing latest innovations and technologies under one roof. They appreciated the concept of BRIDGE which promises to work for peace and prosperity for all. They expressed their willingness to work with India for their defence and other requirements, reaffirming their commitment to further deepen the ties with New Delhi.

    The delegates conveyed their desire for Transfer of Technology and co-development & co-production of latest equipment and products, terming India as a partner in resilient supply chain. They acknowledged India’s role in peacekeeping and its efforts towards upgrading the capabilities of many countries in various fields, including defence, health and education.

    Shared security concerns also figured during the deliberations, with the Ministers unanimously agreeing to avoid armed conflict, describing it as anti-people and anti-development. Various challenges such as illegal drug trafficking, illicit fishing, terrorism and cybercrime were discussed, with the nations pledging to fight together against these menaces. They collectively agreed to move forward together with the idea of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’, which was the theme of India’s G20 Presidency.

    Delivering the closing remarks, Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth expressed gratitude to the attending dignitaries for their participation. He thanked the Defence Ministers, senior officials, and distinguished guests for their engagement and contributions to the conclave. He emphasised the spirit of collaboration embodied by the theme BRIDGE and expressed optimism for continuing existing partnerships while exploring new areas of mutual prosperity through cooperation.

    Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar delivered the welcome address.

    Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh and Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat were also among the dignitaries present on the occasion.

    The conclave provided a platform to discuss key aspects such as defence capacity building through investment, joint ventures & co-production, collaboration in R&D, training & technological advancements in AI & space, Maritime security cooperation and strategic partnerships.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India and Israel united against terrorism, pledge stronger ties: Shri Piyush Goyal at India Israel Business Forum

    Source: Government of India (2)

    India and Israel united against terrorism, pledge stronger ties: Shri Piyush Goyal at India Israel Business Forum

    Commerce Minister invites investment from Israel, says India offers a stable and growing market

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 3:54PM by PIB Delhi

    India and Israel’s common enemy is terrorism and Prime Ministers of both nations work with a shared purpose to eliminate it. This was stated by Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal during his address at the India Israel Business Forum organised by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) today in New Delhi.

    In the last decade, Shri Goyal noted, the Government has focused on strengthening the macroeconomic fundamentals of the country with a strong emphasis on improving the infrastructure to take economic prosperity to every corner of the country. He also pointed out the Centre’s efforts to provide public welfare over the years. Today the efforts have given rich dividends. The nation is standing on strong macroeconomic fundamentals with ability to withstand Covid, war and amidst turbulent geopolitical times, he said.

    In a bid to prepare the nation to leverage the opportunities, Shri Goyal spoke of 10 Ds – Democracy, Demographic Dividend, Digitalisation of the economy, Decarbonisation, Determination, Dependability of India, Decisive Leadership, Diversity, Development and Demand.

    India has a strong judiciary to fall back on, the Minister noted, and said that the young demographic will provide a strong workforce for the future decades to come. Minister Goyal emphasised on India being a dependable partner to Israel as the country is known to keep every commitment it makes. He also stressed on the demand potential of the country that has shown rapid growth and is set to increase every year. Calling India and Israel natural allies, he noted that due to India’s large demand growth Israel has several key areas from technology to appliances to invest in.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs Hosts “Culinary, Crafts & Clicks – Moods & Magic” Festival, Another Pursuit to Honour India’s Street Food & Craft Heritage

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs Hosts “Culinary, Crafts & Clicks – Moods & Magic” Festival, Another Pursuit to Honour India’s Street Food & Craft Heritage

    The festival, is a unique showcase of regional taste, craft, and tradition; and strengthens local economies by bringing street food vendors and women self-help groups to a national platform

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 3:51PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA) is hosting “Culinary, Crafts & Clicks – Moods & Magic”, a Festival of Street Food & Handicraft at Amrit Udyan, Rashtrapati Bhavan from 8th to 23rd February 2025.

    This initiative aims to celebrate India’s diverse street food and handicraft, offering self-help groups (SHGs) from across India and street food vendors, a platform to enhance their reach and integrate into mainstream markets.

    A key highlight is the Street Food Festival, featuring authentic flavours from across the country, alongside 40 SHGs led by women entrepreneurs, displaying handcrafted artifacts, artisanal products, and traditional delicacies.

    Adding a creative dimension to the festival, the “Kartavya Path to Amrit Udyan” Photography Contest is inviting participants via MyGov to capture the vibrant moods and joyful expressions of people along the stretch from Kartavya Path to Amrit Udyan, as well as the festive ambiance within Amrit Udyan.

    Selected photographs will be exhibited at Kartavya Path, celebrating India’s diversity. The contest will run from 8th to 21st February and the results will be announced on 23rd February, 2025.

    To uphold Swabhav Swachhata and Sanskaar Swachhata, the festival is a zero-waste event with no use of single-use plastic. Exhibitors and street food vendors are exclusively using biodegradable products. Additionally, dry waste is being sent for recycling, while wet waste is being sent for composting directly from the event.

    Beyond cultural celebration, this festival holds economic and social significance, empowering women entrepreneurs, grassroots artisans, and informal street vendors while aligning with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s ‘Vocal for Local’ vision.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF) on “Greening the Blue Growth in Asia-Pacific” to be held in Delhi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF) on “Greening the Blue Growth in Asia-Pacific” to be held in Delhi

    Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh to inaugurate the three-day event tomorrow

    ICAR and AFS jointly organizing the event

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 3:33PM by PIB Delhi

    The 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF), with the theme “Greening the Blue Growth in Asia-Pacific” is being organized in New Delhi during February 12-14, 2025. The Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (AFAF) is a triennial event of the Asian Fisheries Society with its Headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This 14th AFAF is being jointly organized by the Asian Fisheries Society (AFS), Kuala Lumpur; Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi; the Department of Fisheries (DoF), Government of India; and the Asian Fisheries Society Indian Branch (AFSIB), Mangalore. This prestigious event is being hosted in India for the 2nd time after the 8AFAF held at Kochi in 2007.

    The 14thAFAF brings together key players from the fisheries and aquaculture sectors and will host around 1,000 delegates from 24 countries, including researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders. The Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (AFAF) has a strong legacy of fostering global collaboration in the sector. Since its inception, the forum has been successfully hosted in multiple countries across Asia. Hosting the 14th AFAF in India after 18 years highlights the country’s growing prominence in global fisheries and aquaculture. With a rapidly expanding blue economy, progressive government policies, and significant scientific advancements, India has emerged as a key player in sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. Today, India occupies 2nd position in total fish production and also aquaculture production globally. The forum will provide a platform to showcase India’s contributions, strengthen international partnerships, and promote innovative approaches for sustainable, resilient, and economically viable fish production systems.

    The forum will be inaugurated by Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Panchayati Raj, Govt. of India on at 10.00 AM on 12th February 2025 ( WEDNESDAY) at Bharat Ratna C. Subramaniam Auditorium, ICAR Convention Centre, Pusa Campus, New Delhi. Dr. Himansu Pathak, Secretary, DARE, and Director General, ICAR; Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary, Department of Fisheries, Government of India; Dr. S. Ayyappan, Former Secretary, DARE, and DG, ICAR; Dr. Essam Yassin Mohammed, Director General of World Fish, Malaysia will also be present. The event will include over 20 Lead Presentations by internationally acclaimed experts from India and overseas.

    On the second day a Symposium on “Aquatic Animal Diseases: Emerging Challenges and Preparedness” will be held at A.P. Shinde Auditorium, NASC Complex, Pusa Campus, New Delhi. Shri George Kurian, Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, and Minority Affairs, Govt. of India will inaugurate the event.

    On the third day, the Academia-Industry-Government Meet on ‘De-risking Shrimp Aquaculture Value Chain for Improved Global Competitiveness‘ at Parijat Lecture Hall, Ground Floor, NAAS Block, NASC, New Delhi. Dr B. Mastan Rao, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) will inaugurate it.

    Closing Ceremony of 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF) will be held at 4.30 pm on 14thFebruary, 2025 at Bharat Ratna C. Subramaniam Auditorium, ICAR Convention Centre, Pusa Campus, New Delhi. Shri Bhagirath Choudhary, Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Govt. of India has consented to be the Chief Guest of the Closing Ceremony.

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    MG/KSR   

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES 2025 “Reel Making” Challenge

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 3:48PM by PIB Delhi

    Shaping the Future of Storytelling, One Reel at a Time

     

    Introduction

    The WAVES 2025 “Reel Making” Challenge is a unique competition that empowers creators and enthusiasts to showcase their storytelling skills using Meta’s tools through a concise 30-90 second film format. Organised by the Internet and Mobile Association of India in partnership with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the challenge has received an overwhelming response, with 3,379 registrations from across India and 20 countries as of February 5, 2025. It provides a platform for digital creators to experiment, innovate, and push the boundaries of short-form content.

    This challenge is part of the Create in India Challenges, a flagship initiative under the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), which will be held from 1st to 4th May 2025 at Jio World Convention Centre & Jio World Gardens, Mumbai. WAVES is a premier global platform fostering discussions, collaboration, and innovation in the Media & Entertainment (M&E) industry. Bringing together industry leaders and stakeholders, the summit will explore emerging opportunities, address challenges, and strengthen India’s position as a global creative hub. With over 70,000 registrations across 31 competitions, the Create in India Challenges continue to fuel creativity, talent, and international participation.

    WAVES 2025: Uniting Creators Worldwide

    The “Reel Making” Challenge, launched as a key initiative under WAVES 2025, underscores India’s emergence as a global hub for media and entertainment while reflecting the rapid growth of its digital creator economy. It aligns with the Government of India’s “Create in India” vision, fostering talent from across the nation and beyond.

    The challenge has attracted notable international participation from countries including Afghanistan, Albania, the United States, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Bangladesh, UAE, Australia, and Germany, among others. This global reach highlights India’s increasing influence in the creative sector and the growing appeal of WAVES as a premier platform for content creators worldwide.

    Domestically, entries have come from diverse and remote locations across India, such as Tawang (Arunachal Pradesh), Dimapur (Nagaland), Kargil (Ladakh), Leh, Shopian (Kashmir), Port Blair (Andaman & Nicobar Islands), Teliamura (Tripura), Kasaragod (Kerala), and Gangtok (Sikkim). The strong response from smaller towns and emerging creative hubs showcases India’s rich storytelling traditions and thriving digital ecosystem.

    Participants above the age of 20 are required to create reels on themes such as “Viksit Bharat,” highlighting India’s technological and infrastructure advancements, and “India @ 2047,” envisioning the nation’s future growth. These themes provide a platform for storytellers to capture India’s innovation journey, demonstrating their creativity and vision for the country’s progress.

     

    Themes

     

    1. Food: Celebrate India’s rich culinary heritage, from street food delights to regional specialties.

     

    1. Travel: Capture India’s breathtaking landscapes, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems.

     

    1. Fashion: Explore the fusion of traditional and modern Indian fashion.

     

    1. Dance & Music: Showcase India’s vibrant rhythms, from classical performances to contemporary beats.

     

    1. Gaming: Dive into India’s evolving gaming culture and its impact on entertainment.

     

    1. Yoga & Wellness: Highlight the essence of holistic living through yoga, Ayurveda, and well-being practices.

     

    1. Road Trips: Share the thrill of Indian road trips, scenic routes, and travel adventures.

     

    1. Tech: Unleash creativity with AR, VR, and digital innovations shaping the future.

    Rules

    Reel Guidelines

    Rewards & Recognition

     

    1. Exclusive invitation to a Meta-hosted event and a reels masterclass in 2025.

     

    1. All-expenses-paid access to the WAVES event.

     

    1. Winning reels featured in the WAVES Hall of Fame, official website, and social media.

     

    1. Ministry-backed support for finalists to compete in global content creator competitions.

     

      

    References:

    https://wavesindia.org/challenges-2025

    https://eventsites.iamai.in/Waves/reelmaking/

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2099990

     Click here to download PDF

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    Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Saurabh Kalia

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Second India-France AI Policy Roundtable held on the sidelines of AI Action Summit 2025 in Paris, France

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 12:27AM by PIB Delhi

    The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India in partnership with Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, IndiaAI Mission and Sciences Po Paris organised an official side-event to the AI Action Summit 2025, titled ‘2nd India-France AI Policy Roundtable’ on 10th February 2025 at the Sciences Po Paris university campus.

    The roundtable discussion started with opening remarks by PSA Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood where he highlighted India’s priorities in global AI policy and governance, including responsible AI development and deployment, equitable benefit sharing, adoption of a techno-legal framework for AI governance, interoperable data flows, and collaboration on AI safety, research, and innovation. Prof. Sood also stressed upon the potential for India and France to synergize on various policy positions and technological initiatives, fostering benefits not only at the bilateral level but also on a global scale by leveraging complementary knowledge and skill sets.

    Shri Amit A. Shukla, Joint Secretary, Cyber Diplomacy Division, Ministry of External Affairs of the Government of India and H.E. Henri Verdier, Ambassador for Digital Affairs, French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs gave co-chairs remarks highlighting (a) DPI for AI; (b) AI foundation models; (c) global AI governance and (d) Priority areas, such as integrating AI in addressing global challenges. They also mentioned cross-border data flows lacking arbitration mechanisms and the importance of aligned views on data sovereignty.

    Following the co-chair remarks, interventions were made by Dr. Preeti Banzal (Adviser/Scientist G, Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India);  Smt. Kavita Bhatia (Scientist ‘G’ & Group Coordinator, AI & Emerging Technology and Bhashini, MeitY, Government of India); Mr. Clément Bacchi (International Digital Policy Lead, Directorate General of Enterprises, Ministry of the Economy and Finance); Ms. Hélène Costa (Project Director, French ministry for the ecological transition); Mr. Sharad Sharma (Co-Founder, iSPIRT Foundation); Mr. Francis Rousseaux (International Technical Expert on AI, iSPIRT Foundation); Dr. Sarayu Natarajan (Founder, Aapti Institute); Mr. Charbel-Raphaël Segerie (Executive Director, Centre pour la Sécurité de l’IA); Mr. Saurabh Singh (Head, Digital and AI Policy, AWS India & South Asia); Mr. Alexandre Mariani (International Affairs Manager, Sciences Po Paris); Kapil Vaswani (Principal Researcher, Microsoft Research); Sunu Engineer (Entrepreneur, Co-Founder, Transforming.Legal); Vivek Raghavan (Co-Founder, Sarvam AI).

    The interventions emphasized the need for democratized access to AI resources, and capacity building while recognizing the importance of techno-legal frameworks. The participants highlighted the significance of sovereign AI models, ethical AI deployment and the need to define globally accepted terminologies and standards. Speakers also aligned on multilingual LLMs, federated AI compute infrastructure, and interoperable access to AI research, datasets, and high-performance computing resources. The meeting also covered key discussions on collaboration between India and France. Opportunities mentioned included creating indigenous foundation models and adopting a balanced governance approach to minimize risks while fostering innovation. Sustainable AI and energy-efficient computing was highlighted, alongside the importance of cross-border cooperation in AI research, datasets, and startups. The conversation also touched on AI’s societal impact, data governance, and the role of global institutions in shaping AI safety frameworks.

    The Second Roundtable built upon key objectives from the First Roundtable organised in IISc, Bengaluru during Technology Dialogue 2025 on 25th January 2025. The First Roundtable discussion focussed on inclusive AI frameworks, diverse datasets, infrastructure and skills, and foundational models. It also addressed governance and innovation, public-private partnerships, sustainability and health, and academic and data collaboration. Both discussions highlighted ethical and responsible AI, along with sector-specific and long-term goals.

    For more information, visit: https://technologydialogue.in/ai-rt-feb.html

     

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    MJPS/ST

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKETO, Washington DC hosts Chinese New Year Reception (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    HKETO, Washington DC hosts Chinese New Year Reception (with photos)
    HKETO, Washington DC hosts Chinese New Year Reception (with photos)
    *******************************************************************

         The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Washington DC (HKETO, Washington DC) hosted a Chinese New Year reception on February 6 (Washington DC time). Some 700 guests attended to welcome the Year of the Snake.     The reception began with performances by musicians Yang Enhua, Hong Ting Laurina and Ding Yijie from the Arts with the Disabled Association Hong Kong. Speaking to a distinguished audience, which included US government officials, congressional staff, Ambassadors and others, Sylvester Wong, Director of the HKETO, Washington DC, said the performances exemplified the “perseverance and diversity of Hong Kong’s performing arts scene and the power of inclusion across the arts.” He acknowledged Cathay Pacific Airway’s support for the musicians’ US tour.            Mr Wong provided an update on growth forecasts for Hong Kong’s economy and the strength of Hong Kong-US commercial ties.                 He highlighted the robust trade ties between Hong Kong and the US, reporting that US goods exports to the city last year totaled nearly US$26 billion. Over the past 10 years, the US has realized a trade surplus of US$271 billion with Hong Kong.           With the Hong Kong government’s recently announced reduction of the duty on imported alcoholic beverages, coupled with the city’s vibrant cocktail culture, Mr Wong stressed that there was strong potential for US whiskeys in Hong Kong.      Mr Wong highlighted Hong Kong’s robust measures to amplify the city’s competitiveness by strengthening traditional pillar industries, while cultivating new growth areas.      He reported on the recent commissioning of the Three-Runway System in the Hong Kong International Airport, which would increase passenger and cargo flows and boosts interconnectivity. Illustrating greater interconnectivity, he announced that Cathay Pacific Airways would soon launch nonstop service from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport to Hong Kong.      In cultivating new growth areas, Mr Wong reported that Hong Kong had continued to step-up the competitiveness of its financial market. With over 1 100 fintech companies operating in the city, innovative financial products run the gamut from mobile payments to virtual asset trading. “The pace of financial innovation requires our regulatory regime to be nimble,” said Mr Wong. “Our regulatory approach ensures market innovation while managing risks.”      Beyond the world of business, Mr Wong said that Hong Kong offered unforgettable experiences for American visitors, including iconic events like Art Basel and the Clockenflap music and arts festival. Thanks to Hong Kong athletes’ achievements at international sporting events and the new Kai Tak Sports Park, Hong Kong had elevated its elite sports development and the status as the capital of international sports events.

     
    Ends/Tuesday, February 11, 2025Issued at HKT 8:52

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