Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Kumbh Mela Reflects India’s Inclusivity and World-Class Management, States VP

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Kumbh Mela Reflects India’s Inclusivity and World-Class Management, States VP

    India’s Aspirational Population Is No Less Than Nuclear Power, Emphasizes VP

    Budget Booster for Taxpaying Populace Has Generated Radiance All Around, Highlights VP

    Achieving Developed Nation Status Requires Eightfold Per Capita Income Rise, Asserts VP

    Chartered Accountants Must Nurture the Spirit of Economic Nationalism, says VP

    Vice-President Addresses 75th Annual Function of ICAI at World Forum of Accountants at New Delhi

    Posted On: 02 FEB 2025 9:32PM by PIB Delhi

    The Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, today said, “There has been a budget booster and for me, there has been a Kumbh booster. The two are coupled.” He explained that the budget booster, particularly for the taxpaying populace, has generated radiance all around. Reflecting on his visit to the Kumbh Mela—an event of unparalleled consequence for humanity—he noted, “When I took the holy dip in an event that celestially occurs after 144 years, the population beyond America had already visited the place. Excellent Management!”

    Drawing a unique parallel, He further elaborated that world-level arrangements were evident at the Kumbh. “How in such a small area, such a large human congregation has been taken care of, reflects India’s inclusivity and peace within us,” he said. While acknowledging a mishap during the event, Shri Dhankhar praised the management’s swift and effective response: “The management thereof, the response was electric, nuclear. It was done in a moment.” He commended the health facilities, law and order arrangements, and the availability of helping hands, concluding, “I, therefore, as an Indian, take pride that we as a nation have come of age where such a large human gathering, infatuated by commitment to religiosity, sublimity, spirituality, and our civilizational ethos, has come together and peacefully handled situations. I salute everyone associated with such exemplary management.”

    Addressing the gathering at the 75th Annual Function of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) at the World Forum of Accountants held at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi, the Vice-President observed that the people of India have now entered an aspirational mode. “This aspirational mode is premised on the fact that in the last decade, no nation has progressed as much on the development aspect as Bharat,” he stated. He pointed out that when people witness development, they naturally desire more, and this has converted one-sixth of humanity into the most aspirational population. “Therefore, this descending, demanding population is an asset. But it is also a challenge. If it is restive, it is a ticking time bomb. And if energy is channelised, it is no less than nuclear power,” he emphasized.

    He further highlighted that India has had an unparalleled and remarkable economic rise and upsurge, alongside significant infrastructure development, technology penetration, and deep digitization in the last few years. Amongst large economies, its growth stands out. He emphasized that an environment of hope and possibility is all-pervasive.

    Expressing his confidence in the role of professional bodies, Shri Dhankhar stated, “I strongly feel bodies like yours have the capacity to convert the youth dividend into nuclear power and keep it away from restive temperament.”

    Shifting focus to economic concerns, the Vice-President shared his apprehensions: “I am deeply concerned when I notice that when balance sheets shine, premised on avoidable imports, and finances blossom on raw material exports, the national economy bleeds as there is an avoidable drain of foreign exchange, loss of employment, and impeding of entrepreneurial growth.” He emphasized that this was a challenge that only the chartered accountants could address. “There is a need to imbibe the spirit of economic nationalism. As a distinguished class, chartered accountants are imminently positioned and suited to propagate and nurture this spirit of nationalism. Such an approach will be highly beneficial to the economy and save us billions in foreign exchange—billions of dollars—while creating millions of jobs and accounting for the growth of entrepreneurship,” he asserted.

    Recognizing the pivotal role of chartered accountants, Shri Dhankhar remarked, “As the architects of economic stability, watchdogs of financial integrity, and guardians of fiscal discipline, you are particularly enjoined to contribute optimally to the nation’s march towards unprecedented growth and prosperity.” He highlighted that in contemporary times, influencers from various walks of life matter significantly, but as a professional class, chartered accountants are the most potent influencers for transformative change in the economy.

    “There is no other class other than chartered accountants who can bring about revolutionary positive change in business ethics and business promotion,” he added. He further noted, “Your unique position at the intersection of business, finance, and governance enables you to bring about and catalyse reforms from the grassroots to the highest corporate achievements. You have the potential to be the nerve centre for big changes that will contribute to our economy.”

    Concluding his address, the Vice-President emphasized the challenge and importance of achieving developed nation status. “A challenge to be a developed nation has to be understood at your level,” he stated. He explained that while a developed nation status is not explicitly defined, certain global parameters can be identified. “In my modest understanding of economics, our per capita income has to rise eightfold. A daunting challenge, but achievable,” Shri Dhankhar affirmed.

    CA. N.D. Gupta, MP, Rajya Sabha, Shri P.C. Mody, Secretary-General, Rajya Sabha, CA. Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal, President, ICAI, CA. Abhinav Aggarwal, Chairman, NIRC and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

    ****

    JK/RC/SM

    (Release ID: 2099020) Visitor Counter : 15

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: VATICAN/ANGELUS – Pope Francis on the day of the Presentation of the Lord: “In Jesus dwells all the fullness of God”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Sunday, 2 February 2025

    Vatican Media

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – “This always leaves us astounded: universal salvation concentrated in just one! Yes, because in Jesus dwells the fullness of God, of His Love”, said Pope Francis during the Sunday Angelus prayer with the pilgrims and believers gathered in St. Peter’s Square on the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord.Commenting on the Sunday Gospel, which tells of the meeting of the Holy Family with Simeon and Anna in the Temple of Jerusalem, the Pope noted how the “moving voices” of the two old people “resound among the ancient stones of the Temple, announcing the fulfilment of Israel’s expectations. Truly God is present in the midst of His people: not because He dwells within the four walls, but because He lives as a man among men. And this is the novelty of Jesus”.In this context, the Bishop of Rome referred to the three words with which Simeon describes Jesus: He is “salvation”, “light” and “a sign of contradiction”.But above all, Jesus is salvation, “the salvation of the world is concentrated in everyone”, “because in Jesus dwells the fullness of God”. Jesus is also the light, because he “will redeem it from the darkness of evil, pain and death. How much we need light, this light, even today!”.And then Jesus is “a sign of contradiction. Jesus reveals the criterion for judging the whole of history and its drama, and also the life of each one of us”, namely love.After the blessing, the Pope recalled the “Day for Life” that the Italian Church is celebrating today: “I join with the Italian bishops in expressing gratitude to the many families who eagerly welcome the gift of life and in encouraging young couples not to be afraid of bringing children into the world”.And speaking of the primary value of human life, the Pontiff reiterated the ‘no’ to war, which destroys, it destroys everything, it destroys life and induces us to disregard it”. In this Jubilee Year, he renewed his appeal “especially to Christian governors, to do their utmost in the negotiations to bring all the ongoing conflicts to an end. Let us pray for peace in tormented Ukraine, in Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan and North Kivu.” (F.B.) (Agenzia Fides, 2/2/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI: Udbytter i Investeringsforeningen Nordea Invest for 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Bestyrelsen i Investeringsforeningen Nordea Invest vil indstille nedenstående udbytter for afdelinger i Investeringsforeningen Nordea Invest til godkendelse på foreningens ordinære generalforsamling den 7. april 2025.

    Udbytterne fragår kursen den 4. februar 2025 og udbetales den 6. februar 2025.

    Hvis en afdeling ikke fremgår af listen, skyldes det, at der ikke udbetales udbytte.

    Afdeling ISIN Udbytte i kr. i alt pr. andel Aconto udbytte i kr. pr. andel Udbytte i kr. pr. andel til udbetaling den 6. februar 2025
    Aktier Ansvarlig KL 1 DK0061116027 8,8 0,0 8,8
    Aktier KL 1 DK0010250158 17,8 0,0 17,8
    Aktier II KL 1 DK0015357065 59,5 0,0 59,5
    Basis 2 KL 1 DK0016195944 5,4 0,0 5,4
    Basis 3 KL 1 DK0016196082 9,5 0,0 9,5
    Basis 4 KL 1 DK0060075893 9,0 0,0 9,0
    Danmark KL 1 DK0010265859 12,6 0,0 12,6
    Danske aktier fokus KL 1 DK0060012466 15,9 0,0 15,9
    Emerging Markets Enhanced KL 1 DK0060950111 1,8 0,0 1,8
    Emerging Markets KL 1 DK0010308170 6,1 0,0 6,1
    Europe Enhanced KL 1 DK0060949964 6,7 0,0 6,7
    European Small Cap Stars KL 1 DK0015960983 8,2 0,0 8,2
    European Stars KL 1 DK0010265693 8,3 0,0 8,3
    Global Enhanced KL 1 DK0060949881 8,1 0,0 8,1
    Global Small Cap Enhanced KL 1 DK0061112893 14,5 0,0 14,5
    Global Small Cap KL 1 DK0016050974 3,7 0,0 3,7
    Global Stars KL 1 DK0010301324 14,7 0,0 14,7
    Globale Aktier Indeks KL 1 DK0060451623 14,5 0,0 14,5
    Globale obligationer KL 1 DK0010170398 2,25 0,0 2,25
    Globale UdbytteAktier KL 1 DK0010265503 19,1 0,0 19,1
    HøjrenteLande KL 1 DK0016254899 2,0 0,0 2,0
    Japan Enhanced KL 1 DK0060950038 2,5 0,0 2,5
    Klima og Miljø KL 1 DK0060192185 11,0 0,0 11,0
    Korte obligationer Lagerbeskattet KL 1 DK0060014678 2,0 0,0 2,0
    Korte obligationer KL 1 DK0060268506 1,2 1,2 0,0
    Mellemlange obligationer KL 1 DK0015168686 1,4 1,4 0,0
    Nordic Small Cap KL 1 DK0015974695 33,6 0,0 33,6
    Nordic Stars KL 1 DK0060095735 3,5 0,0 3,5
    North America Enhanced KL 1 DK0060831451 19,3 0,0 19,3
    North American Stars KL 1 DK0010265776 4,0 0,0 4,0
    Obligationer Ansvarlig KL 1 DK0061139748 1,5 0,0 1,5
    Stabil Balanceret KL 1 DK0060014595 2,0 0,0 2,0
    Stabile Aktier KL 1 DK0060048304 8,7 0,0 8,7
    Virksomhedsobligationer Højrente KL1 DK0016067432 2,5 0,0 2,5

    Med venlig hilsen
    Nordea Fund Management, filial af Nordea Funds Oy, Finland

    Rasmus Eske Bruun
    Filialbestyrer

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/LAOS – Farewell to Father Titus Banchong: “It was Jesus who was interested in me, not me in him”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    by Paolo AffatatoVientiane (Agenzia Fides) – “I am ready for Jesus and will be his martyr if I am worthy and if he wants me. I now believe that the time is very close,” wrote the Laotian priest Titus Banchong Thopanhong, shortly before he was arrested by the security forces of the “Pathet Lao” in 1976.Titus Banchong Thopanhong, Apostolic Administrator of Luang Prabang from 1999 to 2019, died in Vientiane on January 25 at the age of 78. He succumbed to a long illness, also due to the hardships he had suffered for 50 years. Father Titus was a member of the Congregation of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate (OMI) and was imprisoned for seven years. During his entire imprisonment, nothing was heard from him. Many thought he had been killed. Instead, he was released and was able to resume his life as a simple pastor for the small Catholic community in Laos, which today numbers about 60,000 Catholics.Titus is the name given to Banchong Topagnong at the age of 8 when he was baptized with his family in the Hmong village of Kiukiatan in northern Laos, where he was born in 1947. In this village, from 1957 to 1958, he was one of the altar boys of Father Mario Borzaga, the missionary who was to be beatified in 2016. “Titus still retains a precious memory of this priest who profoundly marked his life,” recalls his confrere Fabio Ciardi, who had a deep human and spiritual friendship with Father Titus. With the missionaries, young Titus had the opportunity to deepen his journey of faith: during these years, between 1958 and 1969, he attended Seminaries first in Vientiane and then in Luang Prabang. Father Angelo Pelis, also an OMI missionary who was then director of the Seminary in Luang Prabang, remembers him as a “simple, reserved, gentle and smiling boy”. “The character trait that was to mark him throughout his life was humility: a humility modeled on Jesus Christ,” says Father Pelis. Young Titus decided to continue his formation with the Oblates in Italy and in 1970 Monsignor Alessandro Staccioli (OMI), then Apostolic Vicar of Luang Prabang, sent him to study in Italy, where he studied philosophy and theology first in San Giorgio Canavese and then, from 1973, in Vermicino (near Rome).Father Titus writes in one of the letters collected in the book “Even in prison I can love”, edited by Michele Zanzucchi: “I was still uncertain about my vocation, but little by little I felt in my heart the desire to follow Jesus in a radical way, that is, to follow the Lord who seemed to want me to love him. It was he who was interested in me, not I in him. He had taken me little by little and made me understand that in him I would always find the true meaning of my life.” While he was in Italy, his country experienced a change of regime, with the communist resistance fighters of the “Pathet Lao” taking power and in 1975 all missionaries were expelled from the country.Father Titus felt a strong desire to return to his homeland and to be a priest for the people of Laos, a desire to be a witness for Christ there and not elsewhere. This is what drives Father Titus to return to Laos. “I have chosen the Church of Laos and I feel that God wants me there and not anywhere else,” he writes. “Even if I am a priest for just one day, I will return to Laos.” And he continues: “I have decided to return to Laos because there is no one there for the apostolate. I am returning so that we can all be stronger, I am returning to help the faithful. When I returned, I chose God alone; it is He who makes me return and that is why I am returning.” He was ordained a priest in the Cathedral of Vientiane on 28 September 1975 by the then Bishop of Vientiane, Thomas Nantha, the first of the Hmong ethnic group. The next day he wrote: “I am no longer afraid because I belong to the Lord. I am ready for anything. I am very happy. No one can separate me from Him. Every day I discover more and more that He is with me. I have Him… He asks me for everything, I give Him everything.”He began a strictly controlled pastoral ministry, with the threat of arrest, first in Luang Prabang, then in Vientiane, and finally in Paksane. He travels through the villages on his motorbike, visits people and administers the sacraments to Catholic families. Although he never used critical words against those in power, Father Titus was imprisoned three times and “learned to find even in the cruelest hardships the tenderness of God’s love”, Pelis recalls his imprisonment: “You could say that the other prisoners in prison were all converted, they became good. With love you can also break the bonds of hatred.” After his release from prison he did not complain: “I was released,” he writes. “After they released me, I was able to visit all the Christians in the province of Siam and I found them. Many who had been there for over 30 years no longer had priests,” he said.After being appointed “Apostolic Administrator” of Luang Prabang, the old capital, he lived the life of a missionary, dedicating himself with zeal and charity to serving his people. In 2005, with joy and enthusiasm, he told Fides that in the Vicariate of Luang Prabang he had received permission to open the first Catholic church in northern Laos since the painful times of 1975, after the communist revolution. And he said he was “very edified by the faith and devotion of the local families”. In his pastoral work he went “step by step, we go as far as the Lord allows us”. This hope was realized when he saw the first new vocations to the priesthood blossom in the small Laotian community and when he participated in the beatification liturgy in 2016 of 17 Laotian missionaries and lay people killed by communist resistance fighters between 1954 and 1970. Among the six Oblates of Mary Immaculate (OMI) beatified was the young Italian missionary Mario Borzaga, who died in 1960 at the age of 27 along with the local catechist Paul Thoj Xyooj. Titus had taken them close to his heart. (Agenzia Fides, 1/2/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI China: DPRK condemns Rubio’s ‘rogue state’ remarks

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    A foreign ministry spokesperson of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) has condemned U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio for calling the country a “rogue state,” saying the remarks showed no change in the U.S. hostile policy toward the DPRK, the DPRK’s state media reported on Monday.

    In a release published on Sunday and carried by the official Korean Central News Agency, the spokesperson expressed the DPRK’s strong denunciation of and opposition to the hostile remarks made by Rubio, calling it a grave political provocation completely contrary to the principle of international law of respecting each other’s sovereignty and non-interference in each other’s internal affairs.

    Rubio’s remarks reaffirmed the U.S. hostile policy toward the DPRK and indicated the new U.S. administration’s wrong attitude toward the country, according to the release.

    The foreign ministry spokesperson said the DPRK will not tolerate any U.S. provocations and will take tough counteractions accordingly, as always.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Launches Double Deposit Bonus, $50 Welcome Bonus and 100x Leverage Crypto Trading No KYC

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Feb. 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the price of Bitcoin surpassed the $100,000 mark and many analysts believe that it will enter a long-term high-volatility market. Holding spot positions may not continue to generate profits in the short term. BexBack Exchange is stepping up its efforts to provide traders with irresistible preferential packages. The platform now offers a 100% deposit bonus, a $50 welcome bonus for new users, and a 100x leverage on cryptocurrency trading, creating unparalleled opportunities for investors.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $100,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

    One day later, if the price rises to $105,000, your profit will be (105,000 – 100,000) * 100 BTC / 100,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform that offers 100x leverage on BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, and XRP futures contracts. It is headquartered in Singapore with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. It holds a US MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 200,000 traders worldwide. Accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe. There are no deposit fees, and traders can get the most thoughtful service, including 24/7 customer support.

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    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
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    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ba4465dd-d4e3-4374-8385-806fd259e6e3
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/82e163a9-5f5b-4738-9c9e-8085324358fb
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e3872672-3b1c-489b-8492-34196f339656
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/941d5ac9-9048-4b49-b919-4b4f5922bbf8

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Baker Hughes and Hanwha Announce Partnership to Develop Small-Size Ammonia Turbines

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Agreement to focus on creation of 100% ammonia combustion dual fuel with natural gas small-size turbines
    • Ammonia is a low-carbon fuel that can play a critical role in decarbonizing hard-to-abate sector, including marine transportation
    • Collaboration to deliver efficiency comparable to reciprocating engines while minimizing carbon emissions

    FLORENCE, Italy, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Baker Hughes (NASDAQ: BKR), an energy technology company, Hanwha Power Systems and Hanwha Ocean announced Monday a Joint Development and Collaboration Agreement (JDCA) for a new small-size turbine for ammonia applications that will leverage Baker Hughes’ small-size gas turbine technology and Hanwha’s ammonia combustion system. The agreement was signed during the Baker Hughes 2025 Annual Meeting in Florence. The new ammonia turbine will be suitable for marine applications but also for onshore and offshore applications, and for electric generation and mechanical drive.

    Ammonia is a critical fuel in enabling the decarbonization of hard-to-abate sectors, including marine, oil and gas, and power. Hanwha Ocean, one of South Korea’s leading shipbuilders, will be the main beneficiary of the JDCA and will adopt the new solution as a propulsion system for their future vessels, thus enabling maritime decarbonization.

    Hanwha already tested successfully a proof-of-concept of the combustor, with 100% ammonia as the fuel gas, and Baker Hughes completed its initial turbine feasibility studies in 2024. The two companies target to complete the full engine test with ammonia by the end of 2027, after which the turbine (~16MW power range) will be commercially available for orders.

    “Decarbonizing hard-to-abate industries and transportation is one of the most pressing but high-potential opportunities of our time,” said Alessandro Bresciani, senior vice president of Climate Technology Solutions at Baker Hughes. “We believe fuel switching to ammonia will play a key role in achieving significant emissions reductions across these sectors, and to realize this ambition, the industry needs more partnerships such as this. Together, we will continue to lead by example and take energy forward.”

    “We are very excited to be collaborating with Baker Hughes to deliver an innovative and efficient solution to enhance the adoption of ammonia as a fuel for the propulsion system for future vessels. This collaboration marks a significant turning point in accelerating the transition to low-carbon fuel propulsion in the global maritime industries,” said James Shon, senior executive vice president and head of Product Strategy and Technology at Hanwha Ocean.

    “The transition to low carbon fuels is a mission for everyone in the marine sector. We aim to play a key role in the decarbonization of the sector, together with Baker Hughes, by supporting ammonia combustion and packaging systems,” said Nuno Kim, executive vice president and head of Hanwha Power Systems Ship Solution Division.

    Baker Hughes is currently exploring how its small-size gas turbines can accelerate the transition from diesel motors to turbines powered by ammonia and hydrogen. In January 2024, the company announced the completion of the successful testing of the world’s first 100% hydrogen turbine, which is now commercially available and with orders under execution.

    About Baker Hughes
    Baker Hughes (NASDAQ: BKR) is an energy technology company that provides solutions to energy and industrial customers worldwide. Built on a century of experience and conducting business in over 120 countries, our innovative technologies and services are taking energy forward – making it safer, cleaner and more efficient for people and the planet. Visit us at bakerhughes.com.

    About Hanwha
    Founded in 1952, Hanwha has grown quickly by anticipating and responding to changing business environments with a balanced business portfolio that includes energy & materials, aerospace, finance and retail & services. Our expertise and synergy in key areas have catapulted us into the seventh-largest business in South Korea and a Fortune Global 500 company. Hanwha continues to grow rapidly as we strive to pursue global leadership in all of our businesses. We are building a robust foundation for sustainable development and a brighter future for everyone. For more information, visit: www.hanwha.com

    For more information, please contact:

    Baker Hughes Media Relations
    Chiara Toniato
    +39 3463823419
    chiara.toniato@bakerhughes.com

    Hanwha Power Systems Media Relations 
    Sung Jae Park 
    +70 7147 4895 
    sungjae.park@hanwha.com 

    Baker Hughes Investor Relations
    Chase Mulvehill
    +1 346-297-2561
    investor.relations@bakerhughes.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Making Data Easily Accessible: Leveraging Statistical Data and Metadata eXchange

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    The brief highlights how SDMX can simplify data activities and improve statistical interoperability, noting its growing use among national statistics offices, central banks, and statistical data producers. The brief also emphasizes the importance of capacity building to ensure the successful adoption of SDMX.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI: Circuits Integrated Hellas Selected as Laureate for Paris Space Week 2025 Innovation Challenge

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATHENS, Greece, Feb. 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Circuits Integrated Hellas (CIH), a pioneering innovator in advanced satellite communication (SatCom) technology, has been selected as a laureate startup to compete in the Innovation Challenge at Paris Space Week 2025 (PSW), taking place February 4-5 at Espace Champerret. As one of a handful of promising startups chosen for the challenge due to their technology’s potential to play a disruptive role in the space sector, CIH will present its groundbreaking flat panel antenna (FPA) chip solution to a group of the world’s top space industry contractors and investors.

    CIH’s proprietary FPA approach combines III-V compound semiconductors with silicon in a three-dimensional (3D) package, enabling lightweight, cost-efficient, and high-performance antenna systems tailored for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite applications. The FPA chip design is executed within a compact system-in-package (SiP) and antenna-in-package (AiP) configuration, housing III-V antenna front ends and silicon circuitry in a minimized footprint.

    The prestigious PSW Innovation Challenge elevates visibility for promising innovations in aerospace technology while fostering collaboration between participants and key aerospace industry stakeholders. Following a rigorous evaluation process laureates are selected to give quick, high-level live presentations that explain their ideas and demonstrate their potential impact for the space industry. This year’s challenge will be held on February 4 at 3:00 p.m.

    “Our selection for the Innovation Challenge underscores the value of our mission to reshape the future of satellite communications by making advanced, high-efficiency FPA chips accessible to the SatCom industry,” said Paolo Fioravanti, CEO and co-founder of CIH. “We are honored to be part of this event and to the opportunities it affords for potential funding, partnerships, and further development opportunities in the aerospace sector.”

    CIH’s 3D chip stacking technology reduces antenna weight and size by 60% compared to traditional FPA chipsets, dramatically improving scalability and cost-effectiveness – both critical for the growing demands of LEO satellite deployment. In addition to participating in the Innovation Challenge, CIH will present “Semiconductor Innovation for the Satellite Sector” during the general conference program on February 4. Attendees can learn more about the company and its transformative roadmap for next-generation satellite communications by visiting CIH in booth E02 at Paris Space Week.

    This recognition follows CIH’s recent selection – from among more than 200 applicants – as one of the four winners of the ESA Partnership Initiative for Commercialization (EPIC) European-Singaporean Space Start-up Competition. The inaugural award recognizes the most promising European space-related start-ups with strong relationships and opportunities in Singapore. Together with the other winners, CIH will participate in the Global Space Technology Convention & Exhibition 2025, scheduled for February 26-27, 2025, at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. Company executives will be available to meet with attendees interested in learning more about CIH’s game-changing FPA chip technology.

    About Circuits Integrated Hellas
    Headquartered in Athens, Greece, CIH is revolutionizing space communications with advanced semiconductor technologies, merging III-V materials and silicon in groundbreaking 3D IC stacks for flat panel antennas (FPAs). Focused on miniaturization, cost efficiency, and unparalleled performance, CIH enables next-generation satellite connectivity, powering a future where seamless global communication knows no boundaries. For more information, visit circuitsintegrated.com.

    For media inquiries, contact:

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Money Market Operations as on February 01, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India


    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)

      Volume
    (One Leg)
    Weighted
    Average Rate
    Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 31,331.38 6.04 3.50-6.65
         I. Call Money 1,388.90 6.24 5.50-6.65
         II. Triparty Repo 29,352.60 6.06 5.00-6.55
         III. Market Repo 589.88 4.60 3.50-6.00
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 25.00 6.10 6.10-6.10
         II. Term Money@@ 0.00
         III. Triparty Repo 0.00
         IV. Market Repo 0.00
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Sat, 01/02/2025 1 Sun, 02/02/2025 167.00 6.75
      Sat, 01/02/2025 2 Mon, 03/02/2025 350.00 6.75
    4. SDFΔ# Sat, 01/02/2025 1 Sun, 02/02/2025 1,09,459.00 6.25
      Sat, 01/02/2025 2 Mon, 03/02/2025 10,052.00 6.25
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -1,18,994.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo Fri, 24/01/2025 14 Fri, 07/02/2025 1,62,096.00 6.51
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo Fri, 31/01/2025 3 Mon, 03/02/2025 1,00,013.00 6.51
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Fri, 31/01/2025 2 Sun, 02/02/2025 0.00 6.75
      Fri, 31/01/2025 3 Mon, 03/02/2025 1,910.00 6.75
    4. SDFΔ# Fri, 31/01/2025 2 Sun, 02/02/2025 0.00 6.25
      Fri, 31/01/2025 3 Mon, 03/02/2025 5,176.00 6.25
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       9,556.71  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     2,68,399.71  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     1,49,405.71  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on February 01, 2025 9,49,696.17  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending February 07, 2025 9,12,544.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ January 31, 2025 1,00,013.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on January 10, 2025 -40,102.00  
    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).
    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.
    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.
    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.
    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.
    & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020.
    Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022.
    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.
    ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015.
    # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023.
    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    
    Press Release: 2024-2025/2066

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-Evening Report: The AEC wants to stop AI and misinformation. But it’s up against a problem that is deep and dark

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Susan Grantham, Lecturer in Communication, Griffith University

    From the moment you open your social media feed, you’re stepping into a digital battleground where not all political messages are what they seem.

    The upcoming federal election will see an influx of deepfakes, doctored images, and tailored narratives that blur the line between fact and fiction.

    Last week, the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) relaunched its Stop and Consider campaign. The campaign urges voters to pause and reflect, particularly regarding information about how to vote. But its message applies to all forms of misinformation.

    AEC Commissioner Jeff Pope warns:

    A federal election must be held in the next few months, so now is the perfect time to encourage all Australians to have a healthy degree of scepticism when it comes to what they see, hear or read.

    The simple directives outlined in this campaign are designed to slow the spread of misleading information in a digital age where algorithms boost engagement at speed.

    So how effective is it likely to be in helping voters sift the real from the fake? While the campaign benefits from the AEC’s credibility and its accessible message, it also faces significant hurdles.

    Digital deception in action

    In 2024, AI made a notable impact on international political campaigns.

    In the US, the Federal Communications Commission fined a political consultant $6 million for orchestrating fake robocalls that featured an AI-generated deepfake of President Joe Biden’s voice.

    During India’s 2024 election, Meta (which owns Facebook) approved AI-manipulated ads spreading disinformation and hate. This exacerbated divisive narratives and failing to regulate harmful content.

    Meanwhile, the Australian Labor Party deployed an AI-generated video of opposition leader Peter Dutton as part of its online efforts.

    Additionally, the Liberal Party has again engaged duo Topham Guerin, who are known for their use of AI and controversial political tactics.

    Political leaders are increasingly turning to platforms like TikTok to attract votes. But one of the problems with TikTok for users is that it encourages endless scrolling and can cause users to miss subtle inaccuracies.

    Adding to these concerns is a recent scam in which doctored images and fabricated celebrity headlines were circulated. It created the illusion of legitimacy and defrauded many Australians of their money.

    These incidents are a stark reminder of how quickly digital manipulation can mislead, whether in commercial scams or political messaging.

    But are we taking it seriously?

    South Korea has taken a decisive stance against AI-generated deepfakes in political campaigns by banning them outright. Penalties include up to seven years in prison or fines of 50 million won (A$55,400). This measure forms part of a broader legal framework designed to enforce transparency, accountability, and ethical AI use.

    In Australia, teal independents are calling for stricter truth in political advertising laws. The proposed laws aim to impose civil penalties for misleading political ads, including disinformation and hate speech.

    However, combating misinformation created by anonymous or unknown parties, such as AI-generated deepfakes, remains a challenge that may require further regulatory measures and technological solutions.

    All of this is unfolding at a time when the approach to fact-checking is itself in flux. In January, Meta made headlines by scrapping its third-party fact-checking program in the US. This was done in favour of a “community notes” system. The change was championed by CEO Mark Zuckerberg as a way to reduce censorship and protect free expression.

    However, critics warn that without independent oversight, misinformation could spread more easily, potentially leading to a surge in hate speech and harmful rhetoric. These shifts in digital policy only add to the challenge of ensuring that voters receive reliable information.

    So, will the AEC’s campaign have any effect?

    Amid these challenges, the “Stop and Consider” campaign arrives at a critical moment. Yet despite scholars’ repeated calls to embed digital literacy in school curriculums and community programs, these recommendations often go unheard.

    The campaign is a positive step, offering guidance in an era of rapid digital manipulation. The simple message – to pause and verify political content — can help foster a more discerning electorate.

    However, given the volume of misinformation and sophisticated targeting techniques, the campaign alone is unlikely to be a silver bullet. Political campaigns are growing ever more sophisticated. With the introduction of anonymous deepfakes, voters, educators, regulators, and platforms must work together to ensure the truth isn’t lost in digital noise.

    A robust foundation in digital literacy is vital. Not only for this campaign to work but to help society distinguish credible sources from deceptive content. We must empower future voters to navigate the complexities of our digital world and engage more fully in democracy.

    Globally, diverse strategies provide valuable insights.

    While Australia’s “Stop and Consider” campaign takes a reflective approach, Sweden’s “Bli inte lurad” initiative is refreshingly direct. It warns citizens: “Don’t be fooled.”

    By delivering clear, actionable tips to spot scams and misleading content, the Swedish model leverages its strong tradition of public education and consumer protection.

    This no-nonsense strategy reinforces digital literacy efforts. It also highlights that safeguarding the public from digital manipulation requires both proactive education and robust regulatory measures.

    It may be time for Australian regulators to act decisively to protect the integrity of democracy.

    Susan Grantham 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. The AEC wants to stop AI and misinformation. But it’s up against a problem that is deep and dark – https://theconversation.com/the-aec-wants-to-stop-ai-and-misinformation-but-its-up-against-a-problem-that-is-deep-and-dark-248773

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-Evening Report: With the Gaza ceasefire in the balance, all eyes are on Benjamin Netanyahu’s trip to Washington

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amin Saikal, Emeritus Professor of Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies, Australian National University

    The brittle Gaza ceasefire between Israel and Hamas continues against all odds, given the depth of distrust and animosity between the warring parties.

    Since its enactment nearly three weeks ago, Hamas has released more than a dozen Israeli hostages captured on October 7 2023, in return for some 400 Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails. Should the process move forward as relatively smoothly as it has so far, more hostages and prisoners are set to be freed during the remainder of the first stage of the truce.

    This is cause for a degree of optimism. However, negotiating the length, terms and implementation of the second and third stages of the ceasefire will prove very rocky.

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, for instance, has already declared the ceasefire to be “temporary”.

    During the second stage, all Israeli hostages (alive and dead) are supposed to be freed in exchange for hundreds of prisoners. Israel is also expected to withdraw all its forces from Gaza as a prelude to the reconstruction of the coastal enclave in the final stage of the ceasefire.

    There are many issues that could derail the process, two of which are crucial:

    • Israel’s unrealised goal of wiping out Hamas and securing Gaza for itself

    • Hamas’ resolve to regain sovereign control over Gaza.

    Another factor is the influence of the new US president, Donald Trump. While
    Netanyahu has the full support of Trump, it remains unclear how much appetite the US leader has for more conflict in the Middle East.

    A meeting between the two in Washington this week could be pivotal to the success of the next phase of the ceasefire – or the resumption of the Gaza war.

    Hamas’ survival at odds with Israel’s war aims

    Israel has certainly degraded Hamas over the past 15 months of its scorched-earth operations in Gaza, which it launched in response to Hamas’ attacks on October 7 2023. However, it has not eliminated the group.

    The appearance of well-armed and well-composed Hamas fighters in the choreographed three rounds of hostage transfers in the areas that Israel has demolished testifies to the group’s survival.

    It essentially signals the failure of Netanyahu and his extremist supporters to achieve their main goals of uprooting Hamas and securing the release of the hostages through military action.

    Netanyahu’s acceptance of the ceasefire at this point clearly underlines the futility of the use of force as the only means to seek vengeance against Hamas. With the conflict in a stalemate for months, he could have embraced the ceasefire much earlier, thereby securing a quicker hostage release without more lives lost or more damage to Israel’s already-tarnished international reputation.

    Hamas’ survival means it is still a dangerous force, former US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in mid-January. He said the group has “recruited almost as many new militants as it has lost” in the war.

    Reports also indicate Hamas has also maintained its control over Gaza’s administration and security forces, despite Israel’s efforts to destroy it.

    If that is the case, Israeli citizens – who have been highly polarised between those wanting the return of the hostages via a ceasefire and those backing Netanyahu’s government to continue the war – have the right to seriously question the prime minister’s leadership.

    The same applies to Israel’s outside supporters, especially the United States.

    Yet, this may not happen. The war-makers may win over the peace aspirants. For Netanyahu and his backers, the job is not finished. Many observers believe the very survival of Hamas can only motivate them further to resume the war once all the hostages are freed.

    What does Trump want?

    The future of the ceasefire now seems to hinge on Netanyahu’s meeting with Trump in Washington. According to media reports, the Israeli leader is keen to see where Trump stands on the second phase of the deal before negotiations continue.

    Trump recently doubled down on his suggestion to “clear out” Gaza’s 2.3 million citizens – though he has mentioned a figure of 1.5 million – by relocating them to Egypt and Jordan. Given the previous statements of the extremists in Netanyahu’s shaky coalition, nothing would please them more than a depopulated and annexed Gaza.

    Cairo and Amman, as well as other Arab countries, have firmly rejected the idea. Hamas and the enfeebled Palestinian Authority in the West Bank have outrightly condemned it.

    But Trump has insisted the Egyptian and Jordanian leaders would eventually come around because the US does a lot for them – referring presumably to their dependence on substantial annual American aid.

    If this plan were to transpire, it would not only be a recipe for more bloodshed and instability in the Middle East, but also more betrayal of the Palestinian cause and the two-state solution by the international community.

    While a ray of hope exists for the continuation of the ceasefire and the implementation of the ceasefire’s second stage, it is still very possible that Netanyahu will return to military action to destroy Hamas and annex part or all of Gaza along the lines of what Trump has suggested.

    The Trump-Netanyahu bond is so strong that it could even enable the Israeli leader to declare sovereignty over the West Bank.

    Given these uncertainties, the third stage of the ceasefire regarding the reconstruction of Gaza, which is estimated to be upwards of US$80 billion (A$1.3 trillion), is at this point nothing more than words on a piece of paper.

    Amin Saikal 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. With the Gaza ceasefire in the balance, all eyes are on Benjamin Netanyahu’s trip to Washington – https://theconversation.com/with-the-gaza-ceasefire-in-the-balance-all-eyes-are-on-benjamin-netanyahus-trip-to-washington-248873

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schakowsky, Omar, Booker Reintroduce Bill to Address Rising Islamophobia Worldwide

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (9th District of Illinois)

    Full Text of Bill (PDF)

    WASHINGTON – Rep. Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Rep. Ilhan Omar (MN-05), and Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) have reintroduced the Combating International Islamophobia Act, legislation to address the rise in Islamophobic incidents worldwide. The bill requires the State Department to create a Special Envoy for Monitoring and Combating Islamophobia and develop a comprehensive strategy for establishing U.S. leadership in confronting anti-Muslim bigotry across the globe.

    From the violent atrocities against the Uyghurs in China and the Rohingya in Burma to the crackdowns on Muslim communities in India and Sri Lanka, the scapegoating of Muslim refugees in Hungary and Poland, and the rise of white supremacist violence targeting Muslims in New Zealand and Canada, Islamophobia remains a global crisis. Minority Muslim communities in Muslim-majority countries, including Pakistan, Bahrain, and Iran, also continue to face systemic oppression and persecution.

    Here in the United States, incidents of Islamophobic hate crimes and discrimination have surged. Mosques have been vandalized, Muslims have been harassed in public spaces, and anti-Muslim rhetoric continues to be normalized in political discourse. The urgent need for federal action to combat this growing threat cannot be overstated.

    “Anti-Muslim bigotry is on the rise in the U.S., and around the world, and we have a duty to stop it once and for all,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “I’m joining my colleagues, Congresswoman Ilhan Omar and Senator Cory Booker, in reintroducing the Combating International Islamophobia Act. This critical legislation will create a Special Envoy for Monitoring and Combating Islamophobia and will ensure the United States has the resources necessary to safeguard human rights and religious and cultural freedom around the world. I hope all our colleagues join us in standing together against Islamophobia. We must promote peace and acceptance for all.”

    “Islamophobia is not just a problem overseas—it is on the rise here at home. From the desecration of mosques to the violent attacks on Muslim Americans, we are witnessing a dangerous resurgence of anti-Muslim bigotry in our communities,” said Congresswoman Ilhan Omar. “We cannot turn a blind eye while Muslim communities face targeted violence and systemic discrimination worldwide. That is why I am proud to reintroduce the Combating International Islamophobia Act alongside Senator Booker and Representative Schakowsky. The United States must take a stand and lead in the fight against this global crisis.”

    “Religious freedom is one of our nation’s most foundational values, and no one should ever have to live in fear of discrimination or violence for practicing their faith,” said Senator Cory Booker. “Islamophobic attacks and rhetoric are on the rise in the United States and around the world, and this legislation would establish a Special Envoy at the State Department to monitor and combat Islamophobia in all its forms. We must dedicate resources to protecting people’s fundamental right to practice their faith and put an end to bigotry.”

    During the 117th Congress, this bill was successfully passed in the House, marking a historic step forward in the fight against anti-Muslim hate.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tacoma Rail Receives Over $8.3M In Federal Funding to Reduce Its GHG Emissions 

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

    Lakewood, Washington – Today, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced over $8,300,000 for Tacoma Rail through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program.  

    Tacoma Rail, a short line operating out of the Port of Tacoma, provides vital services to the local and regional economies. With this funding from DOT, Tacoma Rail will upgrade the diesel engines of four locomotives, significantly improving fuel efficiency and reducing freight rail emissions by over 90 percent. 

    “This grant awarded to Tacoma Rail is another example of how federal funding strengthens our local economies,” said Strickland. “I am proud to support Tacoma Rail as they work to modernize their freight rail equipment, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve air quality for surrounding neighborhoods.” 

    “This investment is a big deal for Tacoma – for our port, our rail system, and our competitiveness,” said Rep. Derek Kilmer (WA-06). “I’m proud to have supported this important project alongside Representative Strickland. It will reduce emissions and ensure Tacoma Rail can modernize without the costs being solely borne by local taxpayers. I look forward to the impact this investment will have on the future of the railroad in our region.” 

    “This award from the Federal Railroad Administration marks a win for cleaner air in the community Tacoma Rail serves,” said Paul Hoover with Tacoma Rail. “We are committed to working toward environmental justice, and repowering four 1980’s era locomotives to modern EPA Tier 4 emission standards moves us toward our goal. This project will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 93 percent, and fine-particle air pollution by 97 percent.“ 

    “These grant funds will support an important Port partner in significantly reducing emissions of yard locomotives. Tacoma Rail plays a critical role in our supply chain ecosystem, moving goods out from our harbors towards consumer markets, and the investment in cleaner equipment is a win for our regional air quality” said Port of Tacoma Commission President and The Northwest Seaport Alliance Co-chair Kristin Ang

    “The maritime sector requires significant investment and partnership to reduce diesel emissions, and we are grateful to Representatives Strickland and Kilmer and Tacoma Rail for being partners in emission reduction efforts across our gateway. Investments in air quality improvements greatly impact all those that live and work near our port facilities,” stated Hamdi Mohamed, Port of Seattle Commission President and The Northwest Seaport Alliance Co-Chair

    Earlier this year, U.S. Representatives Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) and Derek Kilmer (WA-06) jointly advocated for this important economic investment to DOT.  The CRISI Program – bolstered by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) – provides funding for projects that improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of intercity passenger and freight rail. 

    U.S. Representative Marilyn Strickland serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is whip for the Congressional Black Caucus, a member of the New Democrat Coalition, and one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress. 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strickland To Honor Local Vietnam War Veterans 

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

    Lakewood, Washington – On Thursday, November 7th, 2024, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) will host her annual Vietnam War era Veterans Pinning Ceremony to honor local veterans. Strickland will recognize the service of each veteran or their surviving family member, and present honorees with a ceremonial lapel pin as a symbol of our gratitude. 

    “The South Sound is home to one of the largest veteran populations across the nation, and these men and women deserve the utmost respect, gratitude, and recognition,” said Strickland. “It is an honor to recognize our Vietnam War veterans and their families and to continue this tradition.” 

    The pinning ceremony, in partnership with the U.S. Vietnam Veterans Pin Commission, is part of an ongoing national effort to honor all Vietnam War period veterans who served from November 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975. If you or someone you know would like to be honored, please visit Strickland’s website here for more Information.  

    U.S. Representative Marilyn Strickland serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is whip for the Congressional Black Caucus, a member of the New Democrat Coalition, and one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress. 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: EPA Issues Advance Notice To Protect Salmon From Toxic Chemicals 

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

    Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is issuing an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to gather information on the potential risks associated with the chemical 6PPD and its transformation product, 6PPD-quinone or 6PPD-Q.  

    The Puyallup Tribe of Indians, the Yurok Tribe, and the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe submitted a petition asking EPA to establish regulations prohibiting the manufacturing, processing, use and distribution of 6PPD in tires. EPA granted this petition in November 2023 and committed to publishing an ANPRM by Fall 2024 in order to gather more information that could be used to inform a subsequent regulatory action. 

    “Salmon are a keystone species and research shows that the 6PPD-Q chemical which runs off from vehicle tires into our waterways is lethal to their survival, and our marine ecosystem,” said Strickland. “As co-chair of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, I have secured funding to find solutions to this problem, and the U.S. EPA is taking an important step forward to help us.” 

    “Toxic stormwater runoff is one of the biggest threats facing Puget Sound salmon recovery,” said Rep. Derek Kilmer (WA-06). “I am grateful that the EPA has been responsive to the petition filed by Tribes from across our region who are helping to lead the effort to better understand how 6PPD and 6PPD-quinone get into our waterways, how they impact our environment and our health, and how we can get these chemicals out of local ecosystems. We have an obligation to protect salmon in the Pacific Northwest in order to honor the federal government’s trust and treaty responsibilities to Tribes in the region. I am excited that the EPA is moving forward with this rulemaking as an important step toward salmon recovery.” 

    “Today, we’re following through on the commitment we made to our Tribal partners to gather more information about this chemical used in rubber products to help protect coho salmon,” said Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Michal Freedhoff. “We’ll use the information we get on the health and environmental risks to determine next steps to protect people and the planet.” 

    The chemical 6PPD has been used in motor vehicle tires for more than six decades to make them more durable and can also be found in other rubber products such as footwear, synthetic turf infill and playgrounds. 6PPD reacts with pollution in the air to form a transformation product called 6PPD-Q, which may be present in stormwater runoff that may be washed into streams and other bodies of water during rain events. As a result, aquatic organisms can be exposed to the chemicals. Concentrations of 6PPD-Q in stormwater in the Pacific Northwest were found to be lethal to coho salmon after only a few hours of exposure. 

    EPA is soliciting the following information regarding the chemicals:

    1. Environmental effects on aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems,
    2. Potential human health effects,  
    3. Environmental fate and transport,  
    4. Exposure pathways,  
    5. Persistence and bioaccumulation,  
    6. Additional uses of 6PPD and potential releases from consumer products such as sneakers, playgrounds, rubber-modified asphalt, reused tire or other rubber products.  

    EPA is also seeking comment and information related to alternatives to 6PPD, as well as potential chemical transformation products associated with potential alternatives. 

    For example, there are data showing that 6PPD-Q is toxic to fish, with coho salmon being the most sensitive species studied to date. However, there are still uncertainties about the potential impacts of 6PPD-Q on human health, as well as the potential for exposure from other sources of 6PPD-Q. 

    U.S. Representative Marilyn Strickland serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is whip for the Congressional Black Caucus, a member of the New Democrat Coalition, and one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress. 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strickland Statement on Trump Nominees and Taking Credit for Democratic Policies

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

    Washington, DC –Today, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) issued the following statement on the President-Elect’s administration:

    “Regardless of who is in charge, I will continue to do my job and deliver for the people of the 10th Congressional District.

    The President-Elect, however, has nominated some of the most unserious and clearly unqualified people to join his cabinet. Anti-vaxxer Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is a public health crisis waiting to happen. Matt Gaetz is a Trump loyalist with no regard for the rule of law and will bend the knee to fulfill every revenge directive of Donald Trump. Both are already raising questions of whether they can pass Senate confirmation.

    In 2025 and beyond, the American people will continue to see the positive outcomes of laws and investments made in 2021 and 2022 when Democrats controlled Congress and the White House. Insulin is capped at $35 a month, prices will come down for more prescription drugs, and lower healthcare costs. The infrastructure bill will continue to create jobs and deliver more projects such as roads, bridges, transit, clean water, and internet access. We will see more manufacturing jobs return, and investment in small businesses through the CHIPS and Science Act.

    The Trump Administration and MAGA extremists will lie and attempt to take credit for these strong Democratic policies that help the American people – that they voted against while also killing the bipartisan Senate border bill in 2024.

    Project 2025 was a roadmap. The President-Elect has made it clear that he intends to follow through on his plans to strip away our rights, weaken our Democracy, and put extremism above the American people.”

    U.S. Representative Marilyn Strickland serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is whip for the Congressional Black Caucus, a member of the New Democrat Coalition, and one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strickland Statement on Tax Penalties Vote

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

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) issued the following statement on her recent vote against the Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act (H.R. 9495):

    “The Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act is a pragmatic bill. It passed the Ways and Means Committee unanimously in September 2024 and has been voted on three times on the House floor since April 2024.

    My support for the underlying policy has been consistent as I firmly believe that Americans should not face tax penalties for being taken hostage by terrorists. Organizations that have clearly given ‘material support’ to terrorists should have their tax-exempt status revoked and they should not receive federal funding.  

    The president-elect’s decision to put forth several questionable cabinet nominees, however, has given me pause. There is justifiable concern that the appeals process set forth in H.R. 9495 would be misapplied by the incoming administration. That is why I voted NO on H.R. 9495 this week and will continue to do what’s best for my district, and our national security.”

    U.S. Representative Marilyn Strickland serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is whip for the Congressional Black Caucus, a member of the New Democrat Coalition, and one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: As Trump Admin. Poised to Rollback Environmental Protections, Congressman Maxwell Frost Introduces the Youth Climate Leadership Act to Ensure Young People Have a Seat at the Table to Fight the Climate Crisis

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Maxwell Frost Florida (10th District)

    November 14, 2024

    Bicameral Bill Would Codify the Existence of the Youth Advisory Council at the EPA and Establish Youth Councils at Key Environmental Agencies

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (D-FL) introduced a new bill in the House of Representatives, the Youth Climate Leadership Act, legislation to cement the existence of the National Environmental Youth Advisory Council (NEYAC) at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and to create more youth advisory councils at relevant federal agencies. Frost’s bill comes as President-Elect Donald Trump has vowed to gut and rollback climate protections once back in the White House.

    Under President Biden, EPA Administrator Regan created the Youth Advisory Council with the goal of ensuring the next generation of Americans had a seat at the table when it came to tackling the climate crisis and ensuring the U.S. is a global leader in the fight to protect our environment. Since then the council has been composed of young people from all over the country who are focused on putting forth comprehensive solutions that can be implemented at the federal level.

    The Youth Climate Leadership Act has already been introduced in the Senate by Senators Laphonza Butler (D-CA) and Ed Markey (D-MA). Frost’s introduction now means that both the Senate and the House could act swiftly to pass the legislation and ensure the President can sign it into law. 

    “By creating the Youth Advisory Council at the EPA, we ensured that for the first time ever, young people would be centered and heard in our fight to tackle the climate crisis. This is about leaving the planet a better place than we found it, for our present and for our future,” said Congressman Maxwell Frost. “The incoming Administration has made it clear that saving our environment is not a priority. The work the Youth Council and the EPA have done has changed our country for the better and put young people at the helm. We must act swiftly to do everything we can to protect the progress we have made.”

    “The decisions we make – or don’t make – today to address our climate crisis will have lifelong impacts on the youngest Americans. To prepare for the future, the next generation of leaders must take a seat at the table now,” said Senator Laphonza Butler. “The Youth Climate Leadership Act will make sure that the federal government listens to young people’s voices as we fight to achieve our nation’s climate goals.”

    The Youth Climate Leadership Act directs the Secretaries of Agriculture, Commerce, Energy, and Interior, as well as the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, to establish Youth Advisory Councils made up of young people between the ages of 16 and 29 for the purpose of providing recommendations regarding environmental issues as they relate to youth, including:

    • Recommendations regarding programs to help local governments address environmental issues in disadvantaged communities;

    • Recommendations regarding performance measures to quantify the impact of climate change and other environmental harms that affect youth communities; and

    • Researching, writing reports on, and making recommendations with a focus on environmental justice, climate change mitigation and resilience, and pollution reduction.

    The bill provides $250,000 annually to each agency for the purposes of operating the Youth Advisory Councils, for total annual funding of $1.25 million.

    The legislation has also been endorsed by the Sierra Club, Environmental Defense Fund, Center for Biological Diversity, River Kidz, Florida Native Plant Society, Latino Outdoors, Moms Clean Air Force, California Environmental Voters.

    “Youth voices must be uplifted when it comes to climate policy,” said Jackie Ostfeld, Campaign Director of Sierra Club’s Outdoors for All. “Not only will this provide valuable experience to put our young people in a good position as the next generation of decision makers, these policy decisions have a direct impact on their futures. They deserve to play a part in deciding what that future is. We have already seen the ambition and drive young climate activists have. This is a wonderful move by Representative Frost to invest in the nation’s future and acknowledge the role that youth voices can have in shaping climate policy.”

    “It is so critically important that the voices of young people be heard, and given serious consideration, by our lawmakers. The future belongs to all of us, and the youngest among us have the most to gain – or lose – in the fight to address climate change. They will inherit the results of Congressional action – or inaction,” said Eugene Kelly, President of Florida Native Plant Society.

    “The River Kidz are youth advocates who are part of the Rivers Coalition and are dedicated to championing a safe, healthy, and ecologically balanced St. Lucie River Estuary and Indian River Lagoon. We proudly endorse the Youth Climate Leadership Act and recognize the critical importance of young voices in shaping environmental policy, ensuring a healthy environment for all to thrive. We thank Representative Frost for introducing this bill and look forward to seeing River Kidz and other passionate young leaders serve on these newly established Youth Advisory Councils,” said Casey Darling Kniffin and Kelli Doré, River Kidz Co-Leads.

    “It’s imperative that youth voices are centered in discussions of federal climate mitigation and adaptation strategies. Young Americans face a future dominated by climate catastrophe because we’ve failed to rapidly and equitably transition away from fossil fuels,” said Camden Weber, climate and energy policy specialist at the Center for Biological Diversity. “I’m thankful for Rep. Frost’s leadership on the Youth Climate Leadership Act, which will uplift and empower this generation of passionate climate leaders. Their role in sculpting this country’s climate plan is most needed in these perilous times.”

    “Uplifting often unheard voices is an important part of what we aim to do at Latino Outdoors. The Youth Climate Leadership Act would do precisely that for youth, particularly for those in disadvantaged communities,” said Luis Villa, Executive Director of Latino Outdoors. “It would help demonstrate to young people that their voices matter and that they belong in the conversation about our collective future. We are grateful to Congressman Frost for proposing this legislation and for the opportunity to voice our support.”

    “As a member of Gen Z, I believe youth advisory councils will serve a crucial role in providing young people a long-overdue voice in government decision-making and cultivating the intergenerational collaboration necessary to create equitable climate solutions,” said Sam Schmitz from Moms Clean Air Force. “Young people have already witnessed the dire impacts and injustices of climate change which has catalyzed us to be a generation full of passionate climate leaders eager to inform the decisions that will dictate our future. Moms Clean Air Force applauds this important step toward creating a healthy, prosperous, and equitable environment for my generation and all those to come.”

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strickland, Schrier Tour Puyallup Planned Parenthood

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

    Lakewood, WA –Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) and Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) visited Planned Parenthood’s Puyallup Health Center for a clinic tour and a roundtable discussion on reproductive rights with local providers.

    “Planned Parenthood provides essential healthcare for patients,” said Strickland. “I remain committed to ensuring that all women, regardless of where they live or their economic background, have equitable access to safe and affordable reproductive healthcare.”

    “Since the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision, reproductive rights have been under attack across the country. Clinics like the Planned Parenthood in Puyallup play an essential role in providing primary care for millions of women, and I’m proud to have met today to discuss how we can work together to expand access to the full spectrum of reproductive care,” said Congresswoman Schrier. “While extreme Republicans continue to attack all aspects of women’s health care, I will continue to fight in Congress to restore reproductive rights nationwide.”

    “We were excited to welcome Rep. Marilyn Strickland and Rep. Kim Shrier to our Puyallup Health Center today. We are grateful for their strong history of support for bodily autonomy and reproductive freedom — especially as we witness the devastating effects of abortion bans in neighboring states. Rep. Strickland and Rep. Schier’s continued championing of sexual and reproductive health has a positive ripple effect across our affiliate as Washington has stepped up to the rising demand for essential health care, including abortion,” said Courtney Normand, State Director for Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates – Washington.

    The lawmakers toured the waiting room, reception, and surgical area. This Puyallup Clinic, like most Planned Parenthood locations, also offers hormone therapy and other gender-affirming care for patients needing transition support.

    Following the Dobbs decision, Congresswoman Strickland and Dr. Schrier are both working to codify women’s right to choose through the Women’s Health Protection Act, protect the right to travel for reproductive healthcare, and support LGBTQIA+ healthcare.

    U.S. Representative Marilyn Strickland serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is whip for the Congressional Black Caucus, a member of the New Democrat Coalition, and one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strickland, Moore Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Address Military Housing Affordability

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

    Washington, DC –Today, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (D-WA-10) and Congressman Blake Moore (R-UT-01) introduced the Low Income Housing for Defense Communities Act of 2024, a bipartisan piece of legislation to address military housing affordability by diversifying housing options for servicemembers serving in high-cost areas.

    “Servicemembers and their families should be able to afford to live where they are stationed. This is important for their quality of life, and affects readiness,” said Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland. “This credit encourages the building of more affordable housing near large military installations.”

    “When I got onto the Ways and Means Committee, Clearfield Mayor Mark Shepherd approached me with an idea to address the housing affordability challenges burdening our lower-enlisted servicemembers. Since then, my team and I ran with his idea and drafted legislation that we are introducing today. The Low Income Housing for Defense Communities Act will bring much needed relief and productivity to military families serving near major bases. I am so grateful Mayor Shepherd approached me with this idea, and I’m proud of the work we’ve done advancing it to this point,” said Congressman Blake Moore. “Housing has become a national security issue, as it impacts the readiness of Hill Air Force Base (HAFB) in Utah’s First District. As hundreds of lower-enlisted servicemembers are struggling to afford housing near the base and officers are being forced to turn down assignments in Utah because of the difficult real estate market, this bill will spur development interest for Low-Income Housing Tax Credit construction near large installations like HAFB. I thank Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) for her partnership in introducing this bill, and I look forward to seeing this bill make a meaningful impact in the lives of our servicemembers in Utah and across the nation.”

    This legislation will diversify the housing options available to lower-enlisted servicemembers serving in high-cost areas while also creating an increased Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) for buildings located within 15 miles of large military installations. Reps. Moore and Strickland have partnered with local stakeholders to create an additional arm of the LIHTC program to stimulate developer interest in building affordable housing near military installations.

    The introduction of the Low Income Housing for Defense Communities Act that Congresswoman Strickland co-sponsors addresses an acute affordable housing shortage impacting lower enlisted service members at Joint Base Lewis McChord,” stated Bill Adamson, Program Director for the South Sound Military & Community Partnership (SSMCP).

    “Across the nation, our military members continue to struggle with housing. Their Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) continues to fall short of the rents in the surrounding communities, and as such, two, three and even four Airmen are forced to share an apartment so they can afford the rent. While there may be low-income housing in the areas surrounding the installations, the list of applicants for these units is long and the military members either won’t qualify because their BAH is included in their income calculations or they are so far down the list that they have been relocated to their next assignment before they make it to the top of the list,” said Clearfield Mayor Mark Shepard. “This bill will allow developers using Low Income Housing Tax Credits to build high quality rental units where the military members can have priority for the units. It also allows those military members to qualify for existing housing, in areas where it is available, by changing the income calculation to exclude their housing allowance. Having our military members who have volunteered to put their lives on the line to defend our nation live in sub-par housing, or struggle to afford food because all of their available income goes to housing, sends the wrong message to the military members and to the communities in which they live. I applaud Congressman Moore on his commitment to ensure our military members are treated with dignity and respect when it comes to their housing needs.”

    “We appreciate Congressman Moore’s attention to the growing affordable housing crisis, and his commitment to finding a solution based on what we know works – the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit,” said Emily Cadik, CEO of the Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition. “Military families are experiencing the same challenges finding affordable housing faced by millions of Americans, and expanding affordable housing supply through this proven program would provide sorely needed relief.”

    Background:

    Constrained by geographic limitations and military installation footprint, housing development around many growing defense communities is unaffordable for lower-enlisted service members. At the same time, the MILCON backlog and military dormitory crisis has resulted in servicemembers being forced off base to seek housing they cannot afford. Fueled by pandemic population shifts and Department of Defense programs at Hill Air Force Base, Utah experienced a 27% increase in housing costs and 18% increase in population in 2021 alone. Accordingly, approximately 70% of Joint Base Lewis-McChord’s population in Washington, which consists of nearly 55,000 personnel, live off base.

    The bill excludes BAH from the income calculation for LIHTC purposes. While BAH provides uniformed service members compensation based on housing costs in local markets, this provision would help military members secure housing in existing and future LIHTC properties for which they may not otherwise qualify. With anecdotal evidence suggesting that military members are hesitant to self-identify as “low-income,” the bill’s intent is to help classify lower-enlisted military members as low-income households.  

    The bill also provides any development within 15 miles of a qualifying military installation with a 30% “basis boost” under Section 42D of the Internal Revenue Code. This would encourage additional new LIHTC development near “Large Site” military bases such as Hill Air Force Base and Joint Base Lewis-McChord. “Large Sites” are defined in the DOD’s Annual Base Structure Report as having a total Plant Replacement Value of greater than $2.833 billion.

    The bill text can be found here.

    U.S. Representative Marilyn Strickland serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is whip for the Congressional Black Caucus, a member of the New Democrat Coalition, and one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Unanimously Passes Strickland Military Life Insurance Bill

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

    Washington, DC – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to pass the Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families Act of 2024, introduced by Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) and Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02). The legislation is bipartisan and bicameral and ensures life insurance packages for servicemembers and veterans account for changes in the economy.

    [embedded content]

    Click here to watch Congresswoman Strickland’s remarks

    “Our servicemembers put their lives on the line for their country, and we must secure the well-being of the families and loved ones in the event of a tragedy,” said Strickland. “The passage of this bill makes it clear that Congress continues to stand by our military families.”

    Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Mike Braun (R-IN), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Angus King (I-ME), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ).

    The bill improves the financial safety net for veterans, servicemembers, and their families by helping to ensure coverage amounts for the Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) and the Veterans Group Life Insurance (VGLI) account for changes in economic trends.

    U.S. Representative Marilyn Strickland serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is whip for the Congressional Black Caucus, a member of the New Democrat Coalition, and one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strickland Statement On Iran Attacks On Israel, Eve Of Rosh Hashanah 

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

    Washington, D.C.Today, U.S. Representative Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) released the following statement on the Iran missile attacks sent to Israel. 

    “On the eve of Rosh Hashanah, Israel is being struck with an aggressive, horrific, and direct attack from Iran. Israel has a right to defend itself against this act of terror.

    The United States must remain committed to supporting and protecting democracies in the region.”

    U.S. Representative Marilyn Strickland serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is whip for the Congressional Black Caucus, a member of the New Democrat Coalition, and one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress. 

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Steel in Newsweek: Asia-Pacific Challenges Offer Opportunity for Trump

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Michelle Steel (CA-48)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Michelle Steel published an op-ed in Newsweek highlighting challenges and opportunities for the incoming Trump Administration in the Asia-Pacific region, including pushing back on threats from the Chinese Communist Party and strengthening alliances with Japan and South Korea. 

    Read the full piece here

    “With rising threats from the CCP and their regional allies, President Trump will have his work cut out for him in the Asia-Pacific Region. But these challenges provide an opportunity for the U.S. to reassert itself on the international stage, restore global stability, and defend freedom,” Steel wrote. 

    “The dangerous China-North Korea-Russia partnership merits a strong, deterrence focused response. The safety and security of regional allies like Japan, South Korea, and others depends on a United States that is feared by our adversaries,” Steel added. 

    An immigrant to the United States, Steel was born in South Korea, grew up in Japan, and speaks both Japanese and Korean fluently. She has worked over her tenure in Congress to elevate the trilateral partnership between the U.S. and Japan and South Korea, as a means of pushing back on aggression from Communist China. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Banking: ADB Appoints Leah Gutierrez as Director General For New Sectors Department 3

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    MANILA, PHILIPPINES (3 February 2025) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has appointed Leah Gutierrez as Director General for a newly-formed department within the bank.

    Ms. Gutierrez assumed the leadership of Sectors Department 3, which will manage operations for finance, human and social development, and public sector management and governance.

    “The bank aims to deliver on the ambitious development goals of its corporate strategy and help meet the rapidly evolving needs of its member countries,” said Ms. Gutierrez. “ADB will continue to collaborate and innovate as client demands grow.”

    Ms. Gutierrez has over 35 years of professional experience, including 24 years at ADB. Prior to her appointment, Ms. Gutierrez was the Director General of the Pacific Department where she led the planning, implementation, and supervision of the department’s work to support the Pacific region. She has also held senior positions in ADB’s Strategy, Policy, and Partnerships Department, Southeast Asia Department, and Office of the Secretary.

    A national of the Philippines, she holds a PhD in Economics from University of Pennsylvania, USA, and a bachelor’s degree in Business Economics from the University of the Philippines.

    ADB introduced a new operating model in 2022 to better serve the rapidly changing needs of its developing member countries. To support this mandate, the Sectors Group was restructured into three distinct Sector Departments, ensuring a balanced spread of responsibilities. The realignment will enhance managerial oversight, improve operational efficiency, and ensure more effective leadership across all functions.

    ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Hideaki Iwasaki Appointed as Director General for New Sectors Department 1

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    MANILA, PHILIPPINES (3 February 2025) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has appointed Hideaki Iwasaki as Director General for a newly-formed department, Sectors Department 1, which will manage operations for the energy and transport sectors.

    “Being appointed to this role is an honor for me personally, and more importantly an opportunity to create lasting positive impacts for our member countries across our operational sectors,” said Mr. Iwasaki. “My team will work hard to ensure the most efficient and effective support for key challenges facing Asia and the Pacific, as envisaged by the Midterm Review of ADB’s Strategy 2030 focus areas.”

    Mr. Iwasaki has more than 34 years of professional work experience, including more than 22 years in ADB. Prior to his appointment, he served as Deputy Director General for the Pacific Department where he provided guidance and advice to project teams on managing implementation risks and transaction costs, and guided the North Pacific team. He was formerly Country Director to Thailand and had senior roles in the Southeast Asia and Central and West Asia departments.

    He is a national of Japan and holds a master’s degree in Civil Engineering from Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University, USA, and master’s and bachelor’s degrees in Urban Engineering from the University of Tokyo, Japan.

    ADB introduced a new operating model in 2022 to better serve the rapidly changing needs of its developing member countries. To support this mandate, the Sectors Group was restructured into three distinct Sector Departments, ensuring a balanced spread of responsibilities. The realignment will enhance managerial oversight, improve operational efficiency, and ensure more effective leadership across all functions.

    ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI Banking: ADB Appoints Emma Veve as Director General for Pacific

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    MANILA, PHILIPPINES (3 February 2025) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has appointed Emma Veve as Director General of its Pacific Department (PARD), where she will be responsible for the department’s vision and strategy in the subregion.

    Beginning her new role today, Ms. Veve will lead the delivery of the forthcoming Pacific Approach 2026–2030, which will serve as ADB’s overall country partnership strategy for 12 of its 14 Pacific developing members: Cook Islands, Kiribati, the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. She will also lead the implementation of ADB’s individual country partnership strategies for Fiji and Papua New Guinea.

    “I am delighted to be back working in the Pacific, and I’m deeply committed to helping shape the new Pacific Approach, which will serve as ADB’s guide to assisting the Pacific developing members achieve their development goals,” said Ms. Veve. “In keeping with ADB’s role as Asia and the Pacific’s climate bank, we will remain focused on combatting climate change and its impacts using innovation, knowledge, and collaboration.”

    Prior to her appointment as Director General for the Pacific, Emma was Deputy Director General with ADB’s Southeast Asia Department. She also served as the Deputy Director General of the Pacific Department where she supported the Director General in the delivery of ADB operations across the 14 Pacific developing member countries. Ms. Veve has also held other senior roles within ADB’s economic, social, and urban sectors in the Pacific Department. 

    Before joining ADB in 2005, Emma was the Economic Advisor with the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat in Suva, Fiji and held various positions in the Australian commonwealth public service. She is a national of Australia, holds a double degree in agricultural science and economics from the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia; and holds a master’s degree in economics from the University of New England, Armidale, Australia.

    ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Money Market Operations as on January 31, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India


    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)

      Volume
    (One Leg)
    Weighted
    Average Rate
    Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 12,919.45 6.54 5.50-6.90
         I. Call Money 2,607.70 6.53 5.50-6.70
         II. Triparty Repo 8,450.45 6.49 6.25-6.70
         III. Market Repo 0.00
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 1,861.30 6.78 6.75-6.90
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 10,435.20 6.60 5.10-6.70
         II. Term Money@@ 121.50 6.65-7.50
         III. Triparty Repo 3,29,263.55 6.58 6.20-6.80
         IV. Market Repo 1,50,257.25 6.66 5.00-6.90
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo Fri, 31/01/2025 3 Mon, 03/02/2025 1,00,013.00 6.51
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Fri, 31/01/2025 1 Sat, 01/02/2025 4,401.00 6.75
      Fri, 31/01/2025 2 Sun, 02/02/2025 0.00 6.75
      Fri, 31/01/2025 3 Mon, 03/02/2025 1,910.00 6.75
    4. SDFΔ# Fri, 31/01/2025 1 Sat, 01/02/2025 97,719.00 6.25
      Fri, 31/01/2025 2 Sun, 02/02/2025 0.00 6.25
      Fri, 31/01/2025 3 Mon, 03/02/2025 5,176.00 6.25
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       3,429.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo Fri, 24/01/2025 14 Fri, 07/02/2025 1,62,096.00 6.51
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF#          
    4. SDFΔ#          
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       9,556.71  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     1,71,652.71  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     1,75,081.71  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on January 31, 2025 9,30,798.53  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending February 07, 2025 9,12,544.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ January 31, 2025 1,00,013.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on January 10, 2025 -40,102.00  
    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).
    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.
    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.
    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.
    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.
    & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020.
    Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022.
    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.
    ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015.
    # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023.
    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    
    Press Release: 2024-2025/2064

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Lufthansa extends A380 service to Bangkok

    Source: Lufthansa Group

    Lufthansa, Germany’s flagship carrier and largest airline, is pleased to announce the extension of its Airbus A380 service from Bangkok to Munich for the peak Songkran holiday season. In response to growing demand during this key travel period, Lufthansa will operate its flagship aircraft on this route, offering passengers a luxurious and comfortable flying experience between the two major cities.

    The A380, known for its spacious cabins, cutting-edge amenities, and state-of-the-art technology, will be deployed for additional flights starting in early April 2025, coinciding with the annual Songkran Festival in Thailand. As one of the most significant cultural events in Thailand, the Songkran holiday attracts millions of travelers both domestically and internationally. Lufthansa’s decision to extend its A380 service aims to provide travelers with enhanced capacity and superior comfort during this busy travel period.

    “We are excited to extend our A380 service on the Munich-Bangkok route during the Songkran holiday season,” said Felipe Bonifatti, Vice President Asia Pacific & Joint Ventures East. “The A380 offers unparalleled comfort and capacity, and we are confident that our passengers will appreciate the extra space and top-tier service as they travel during the busy Thai New Year period.”

    Lufthansa’s decision to continue the deployment of the A380 for the Songkran season follows the airline’s continued commitment to enhancing the travel experience for its passengers. With its wide-body design and cutting-edge technology, the Airbus A380 is ideal for long-haul flights, offering passengers an elevated level of comfort when flying with the national airline of Germany.

    About Lufthansa Group

    The Lufthansa Group is an aviation group with operations worldwide. With 100,000+ employees, Lufthansa Group generated revenue of €35.4bn in the financial year 2023. Our largest business segment is Passenger Airlines while other key business segments include Logistics and Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO). Other companies and Group functions such as IT companies and Lufthansa Aviation Training form complementary components of the Group. All airlines and business segments play leading roles in their respective markets.

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Result of the Daily Variable Rate Repo (VRR) auction held on February 03, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Tenor 1-day
    Notified Amount (in ₹ crore) 75,000
    Total amount of bids received (in ₹ crore) 48,785
    Amount allotted (in ₹ crore) 48,785
    Cut off Rate (%) 6.51
    Weighted Average Rate (%) 6.52
    Partial Allotment Percentage of bids received at cut off rate (%) NA

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2024-2025/2065

    MIL OSI Global Banks