Category: Asia

MIL-OSI Europe: The Mumbai of Subaltern Women Through the Award-Winning Film “All We Imagine as Light”

Source: Universities – Science Po in English

The first session of the CERI cinéclub, hosted by Christophe Jaffrelot, Senior Researcher at the Center for International Studies (CERI) and Co-Director of the South Asia Program, and devoted to the film All we imagine as light, plunged the audience into an atmosphere that was both poetic and political.

Christophe Jaffrelot has written a sensitive tribute to a deeply moving film that teaches us a great deal about Mumbai and Indian society.

All we imagine as light, written and directed by Payal Kapadia, is the first film from India to win the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival. It immediately brings to mind the masterpieces of Satyajit Ray, another Indian filmmaker to have been celebrated at Cannes, for Pather Panchali (Song of the Little Road) in 1956.

Like Ray in that first film in the Apu Trilogy, Kapadia provides viewers with close-ups that are intensely beautiful and strikingly expressive, even when their subjects remain impassive and enigmatic. These two filmmakers excel in the art of deliciously slow, even static, shots, which never appear overly long but instead draw the viewer into the intimate worlds of men and (especially) women, as we will see. Nor does this virtuosity slide into mere aestheticism, for behind the heady poetry of her cinematographic style, Kapadia’s work is, in fact, just as political as that of Ray.

Indeed, the young director first became known in the early 2020s for a militant documentary on the caste system—winner of the Golden Eye at Cannes in 2021. When she was still a film student, Kapadia participated in protests against the Modi government’s nomination of a fellow Hindu nationalist at the head of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), and saw her scholarship revoked in response to her opposition.

The smoke and mirrors of Mumbai

All we imagine as light is political in a different way. The film focuses on ordinary, everyday victims, first and foremost those who came to Mumbai in search of an Eldorado and who are losing hope. These are the migrants whose anonymous voices— they do not appear on screen—mark the opening moments of the film. They no longer live in the illusion created by the smoke and mirrors of the city, and it is that contrast between dreams and reality that is expressed in the title of the film.

Why does Mumbai disappoint those who left their villages in hope of a better life? Firstly because it is difficult to find housing, or indeed any shelter, there. The cost of accommodation per meter square has increased so much that the factories that filled the city centre until the 1980s have been transformed into skyscrapers. Here, luxury flats are sold to what Indians call the “middle-class,” but who are in fact, an elite. One of the advertising posters in the film unreservedly boasts of this housing, reserved for a “privileged” few. In Mumbai, property speculation has deadly consequences.

Parvati, one of the film’s heroines, is the widow of a worker in the now-abandoned factories, and the target of a property developer who has managed to force her to leave her home and return to her village. She tried to join forces with other victims of the same injustice (along the lines of great revolutionaries like Jyotirao Phule and Bhagat Singh whose portraits appear in the film) but in vain.

Since the Bombay Textile Worker’s strike was broken in the early 1980s, the city has fallen into hands of business interests and their political allies. This is no longer a time for class struggle, but for religion. Kapadia shows this Hindu nationalist version of the “opium of the masses”, documentary-style, by filming the Ganesha Chaturthi processions, where participants dance and sing.

When they have nowhere to return to, Mumbai’s poor must pile into the overcrowded slums, which are pushed as far away from the city centre as possible. The members of the lower middle class are also relegated to buildings on the outskirts, which forces them to commute by train from the outlying suburbs. The length of these commuter journeys increases as the city spreads, along the two trainlines stretching north and south, and which structure both the time (minutes are counted in the number of stations) and the imaginary of Mumbaikars.

These trains, which the viewers take several times with the films’ heroines, are a symbol of urban violence. Hundreds of people die every year on the tracks, whether from falling from open doors, or from electrocution. But this daily commute also provides respite for workers—drowsy with sleep on the way out, exhausted by the day on the way home—and particularly for women who have the benefit of the “Ladies Compartment”.

Three women

As well as being a film about a major city, All we imagine as light, is a film about women, about the women who are victims of the city, of men, and of social norms. The two main characters, Prabha, the eldest, and Anu, the youngest, illustrate two forms of oppression that Indian women face today—and have long faced.

They both come from Kerala, work together in a hospital, and share the same flat, but are otherwise unlike each other. The eldest, Prabha, is a woman of duty. She values strength; as a nurse, she rebukes the novice midwives who are repulsed by the smell of placenta. Although she takes no nonsense, she is extraordinarily sensitive, and even expressive in her largely unsmiling reserve. Her husband has left to work in Germany, and she has had no news of him for a year.

One day, he sends her a rice-cooker, with no note, and she projects all her unfulfilled desires onto this anonymous object. A doctor at the hospital courts her delicately, giving her a poem that she reads once night has fallen and the city is asleep. Yet, she does not take the hand he offers. She is married and thus devoted to one man alone, in accordance with Hindu tradition.

Anu, by contrast, rejects this tradition. She is graceful, laughs easily, and spends more than she earns—leading to debts she owes to Prabha—and says she will refuse all the suitors her parents propose, according to that same tradition of arranged marriage. Worse, she is secretly involved in a romantic relationship—which Prabha knows and disapproves of—with, worse still, a young Muslim man.

Although today a young couple can be more open than before about their relationship when they are both from the same community, a romance between a Hindu and a Muslim puts both parties in extreme danger. Indeed, Hindu nationalists have declared war on what they call “love jihad”, a term referring to the idea that young Muslim men are good at seducing Hindu girls, converting them to Islam and thus swelling the ranks of the Muslim community with their children… When discovered, mixed couples like this are hunted down and the men beaten, even lynched. Anu’s young lover Shiaz hides in terror at the idea of being found in her presence.

Where can these two live their love safely? Not in Mumbai, which is somewhat of a paradox, given this city was long reputed for its cosmopolitanism, and for providing an anonymity that made it an ideal site for forbidden encounters. In the film, when the two women help Parvarti to return to her original fishing village, Anu invites Shiaz to follow them secretly— and this is where they are finally able to fulfil their love.

The city no longer provides the same security as the mangrove trees. It no longer conceals forbidden love, not only because of the intense promiscuity resulting from skyrocketing population density, but also because spying and informing on others has become a national sport.

While the standard Bollywood dream is in Hindi, All we imagine as light speaks the language of migrants—Malayalam, Bengali, Marathi—and reveals an unvarnished reality which borders on tragic. Anu still believes she can rebel, but for Prabha this struggle is in vain: no one can escape their destiny. Yet, there is no place for sadness here, gravitas and grace (in the quasi-mystical sense) are what dominate.

Kapadia’s women are exceptionally dignified, intensely human, and show unwavering solidarity. They also share delectable moments of freedom, like Anu and Parvati’s slightly tipsy impromptu dancing, under the half-amused, half-disapproving gaze of Prabha, on the beach, far from the city that is the melting pot for all woes.

Above all, this is the moment that it seems Prabha might shift towards a new destiny. When the sea washes a man’s body up onto the beach, she is the one who resuscitates him, by performing CPR, before the disconcerted villagers. The man, whom she then washes, has lost his memory and the villagers believe Prabha is his wife.

She tries to set the record straight and then uses this misunderstanding to tell this play-husband (who joins in the pretence for a few phrases) that she does not ever want to see her husband again. This break-up opens up her heart, and she encourages Anu to call Shiaz—who is hiding in the forest—to join them openly.

A new hope is born from this rejection of social norms by the woman who had previously resigned herself to their constraints. Prabha shows the way to all those who are smothered by the condition Indian women are subject to. This is one of the reasons why only a few cinemas are screening this film in India, the director has offered to organise screenings from city to city to those who request it.

And All we imagine as light would undoubtedly not have escaped censorship if it had not won the Grand Prix at Cannes, for which the festival should be duly thanked, along with the French co-producer of the film, Petit Chaos.

MIL OSI Europe News –

February 1, 2025
MIL-OSI China: MMC of Harbin Asian Winter Games goes into official operation

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

HARBIN, Jan. 31 — With a week to go before the opening ceremony of the 2025 Asian Winter Games in Harbin, the Main Media Center (MMC) was officially put into operation on Friday.

Located in the Harbin International Conference, Exhibition and Sports Center, the MMC consists of the Main Press Center (MPC) and the International Broadcasting Center (IBC).

The volunteers in the MMC have been ready to provide language and guiding services for registered media and broadcasters, and the foreign currency exchange outlets in the venue are also available. At the official merchandise store of the 9th Asian Winter Games, various kinds of souvenirs including the adorable tiger mascots “Binbin” and “Nini” of Harbin 2025 are eye-catching.

“The MMC will be in 24-hour operation with a full coverage of the IPTV, or Internet Protocol TV, during the Games,” introduced Lyu Zhuangzhi, media operation director of the MMC.

The MPC comprises press conference room, online news center, and workrooms of the media including Xinhua, the host news agency of the event. In addition, the MPC also displayed the torches of the past editions of the Asian Winter Games and exhibited calligraphy and painting works with the theme of Harbin 2025.

Also on Friday, the Athletes’ Village besides the MMC and the Mountain Media Center for snow events in Yabuli began to operate officially.

The first match of the Harbin Asian Winter Games will kick off on Monday in ice hockey before the opening ceremony on February 7. The Games will conclude on February 14.

Picture taken on Jan. 31, 2025 shows the media room in the Main Media Center (MMC) of the 2025 Asian Winter Games in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province. With a week to go before the opening ceremony of the 2025 Asian Winter Games in Harbin, the Main Media Center (MMC) started its official operation on Friday. [Photo/Xinhua]

A customer shops at the official merchandise store in the Main Media Center (MMC) of the 2025 Asian Winter Games in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 31, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

Picture taken on Jan. 31, 2025 shows the main press center in the Main Media Center (MMC) of the 2025 Asian Winter Games in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

Picture taken on Jan. 31, 2025 shows the post office in the Main Media Center (MMC) of the 2025 Asian Winter Games in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

Picture taken on Jan. 31, 2025 shows staff work at the medical center in the Main Media Center (MMC) of the 2025 Asian Winter Games in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

Picture taken on Jan. 31, 2025 shows the entrance to the International Broadcast Center in the Main Media Center (MMC) of the 2025 Asian Winter Games in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

Picture taken on Jan. 31, 2025 shows the entrance to the Main Press Center in the Main Media Center (MMC) of the 2025 Asian Winter Games in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

Picture taken on Jan. 31, 2025 shows the Main Press Center in the Main Media Center (MMC) of the 2025 Asian Winter Games in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

Picture taken on Jan. 31, 2025 shows the help desk in the Main Media Center (MMC) of the 2025 Asian Winter Games in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

MIL OSI China News –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Myanmar: Four years after coup, world must demand accountability for atrocity crimes

Source: Amnesty International

The international community must take urgent action to ensure accountability for atrocities in Myanmar, 46 organizations said today ahead of the four-year anniversary of the 1 February 2021 military coup.

This year represents a turning point for accountability in Myanmar. While the military remains in control, they are losing ground in many areas. Amid rapidly evolving patterns of hostilities and changing political dynamics, renewed efforts must push for justice and ensure a future built on a lasting culture of respect for human rights.

Since the 2021 coup, Myanmar’s military junta has killed more than 6,000 people, arbitrarily detained more than 20,000, and renewed judicial executions. More than 3.5 million people are internally displaced. Human rights groups have documented the military’s torture and other ill-treatment of detainees, indiscriminate attacks, and the denial of humanitarian aid, which may amount to crimes against humanity and war crimes.

Myanmar’s military junta has carried out widespread and systematic attacks against the civilian population nationwide, bombing schools, hospitals, and religious buildings with total impunity. Armed groups fighting the military have also committed human rights violations. While some have pledged to hold perpetrators accountable, it remains to be seen whether these efforts are genuine and can meet international standards.

Last year, 2024, also marked the worst year of violence against the Rohingya community since 2017, with men, women, and children dying in bombings while being trapped in the middle of the armed conflict between the Myanmar military and the armed group the Arakan Army in Rakhine State.

At the same time, Myanmar’s military has lost an unprecedented amount of territory across the country to a loose coalition of ethnic armed groups, which have captured two regional commands, high-ranking military officers, dozens of towns, and border crossings. These groups have also been implicated in human rights abuses.

In areas controlled by ethnic armed groups or overseen by the National Unity Government—formed by democratically elected lawmakers and officials ousted in the 2021 coup—local structures of governance and civil society are emerging. These include schools, hospitals, administrative offices, prisons, police stations, and courts.

Our undersigned organizations call on all parties to the armed conflict in Myanmar to comply with international humanitarian law and engage with international justice mechanisms, including the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar. All countries, including regional actors in ASEAN and neighbouring states, must increase pressure on the junta by blocking arms shipments, suspending aviation fuel shipments and supporting international justice mechanisms, including by prosecuting or extraditing any suspected perpetrators. ASEAN must move beyond its failed Five-Point Consensus and take decisive action to hold the junta accountable. We also urge the international community to commit to a coordinated, long-term international justice strategy.

Globally, some highly anticipated international justice efforts are moving forward. In November 2024, the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) Office of the Prosecutor requested an arrest warrant for Myanmar’s Senior General Min Aung Hlaing for the crimes against humanity of deportation and persecution of the Rohingya committed in Myanmar and in part in Bangladesh between August and December 2017. Requests targeting other senior military officials are expected.

If these requests are granted, authorities in ICC member states must urgently comply with an arrest warrant for a suspect present within their jurisdiction and hand the person over to the ICC to face their accusers in a fair trial for alleged crimes under international law. The international community must deny safe haven to those accused of serious crimes by ensuring their immediate arrest and transfer to the ICC. The world must not allow perpetrators to evade international justice.

While the present arrest warrant request is a welcome step, it remains limited in scope, location, and time and does not cover any alleged crimes after the 2021 coup. The ICC Prosecutor should demonstrate further progress in his investigation, including considering crimes under international law committed after 2017 and in the four years since the coup. The UN Security Council and Member States of the ICC must refer the full situation in all of Myanmar to the ICC to ensure justice for all victims.

Governments, donors, and international agencies should support and pursue a wide variety of accountability efforts, including universal jurisdiction, and the potential creation of ‘hybrid’ or similar tailored justice mechanisms. The international community must also impose a global arms embargo, suspend jet fuel exports, and engage with all relevant national stakeholders, including civil society and those most affected by crimes.

The UN Human Rights Council resolution from April 2024 stressed the need for “close and timely cooperation” between the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar, a body established by the UN Human Rights Council to collect and preserve evidence of atrocity crimes in Myanmar for future prosecutions, and “any future investigations or proceedings by national, regional or international courts or tribunals, including by the International Criminal Court or the International Court of Justice.”

It also requested the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to maintain a focus on accountability regarding international human rights law, international humanitarian law, and the rule of law and submit a future report on ways to “fulfil the aspirations of the people of Myanmar for human rights protection, accountability, democracy, and a civilian government.”

Myanmar will be discussed at the upcoming UN Human Rights Council session from 24 February to 4 April 2025. UN member states must use this opportunity to take a bold and innovative approach on Myanmar and adopt a resolution aimed at breaking the cycle of impunity for atrocity crimes. The international community must also amplify the voices of survivors, activists and the people of Myanmar who continue to resist oppression at great personal risk.

Myanmar’s human rights crisis did not begin with the coup. Decades of oppression have led to this moment. Ending impunity requires bold and adapted solutions and long-term political and financial commitment. The world must act now.

#Sisters2Sisters
Ah Nah Podcast – Conversations with Myanmar
Amnesty International
Arakan Rohingya National Organisation
Arakan Rohingya National Union
Assistance Association for Myanmar-based Independent Journalists
Athan – Freedom of Expression Activist Organization
Blood Money Campaign
Burma Action Ireland
Burma Campaign UK
Burma Civil War Museum
Burma Human Rights Network
Burma War Crimes Investigation
Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK
CAN-Myanmar
Center for Ah Nyar Studies
Chin Human Rights Organization
Community Rebuilding Center
Defend Myanmar Democracy
EarthRights International
Fortify Rights
Free Rohingya Coalition
Global Myanmar Spring Revolution
Human Rights Foundation of Monland
Independent Myanmar Journalists Association
Kaladan Press Network
Karen Human Rights Group
Karenni Human Rights Group
Mayu Region Human Rights Documentation Center
Mother’s Embrace
Myanmar Ethnic Rohingya Human Rights Organization in Malaysia
New Myanmar Foundation
Odhikar
Progressive Muslim Youth Association
Political Prisoners Network – Myanmar
Refugee Women for Peace and Justice
Refugees International
Rohingya Human Rights Initiative
Rohingya Student League
Rohingya Student Network
Rohingya Student Union
Rohingya Youth for Legal Action
RW Welfare Society
Sitt Nyein Pann Foundation
Women Organization of Political Prisoners
Youth Congress Rohingya.

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Asian Development Blog: As Nations Reshore, ASEAN Should Explore Trade, Digitalization and Connectivity

Source: Asia Development Bank

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations should leverage trade, tourism, and digitalization to foster economic resilience and sustainable growth amid global economic uncertainty.

There is a growing sense that the global economy is moving towards a more competitive era as countries are reshoring. Many are bringing their supply chains back home to reduce risks from disruptions. Others are deploying tariffs and other barriers to advance their domestic agenda.

Issues around climate change and rivalry around frontier technology (artificial intelligence, big data, internet of things) are increasingly being discussed as issues of national security.

To address these issues, the 10 countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) must work collectively to achieve their goals of a better economic future of their people and the protection of their national interest. A particular focus on trade, digitalization and connectivity is needed.

Trade is likely to be focused on services, which covers cross-border transactions under finance, telecom, travel, transport and other business services, like professionals and consultancy services. Each of these plays an important role in ASEAN countries in terms of job creation and economic growth. Post-COVID-19, in the face of a slowdown in goods trade, trade in services showed positive momentum and even positioned ASEAN as a net exporter of services.

Travel services, particularly, hold promise for ASEAN as it underscores ASEAN’s attractiveness as a tourist destination. Hence, while aiming to deliver a competitive tourism sector, the ASEAN countries are expected to collectively work on tourism enablers like infrastructure, skills development, marketing promotion, product development and others to increase intra-regional travel in ASEAN, which currently constitutes more than 40% of ASEAN’s total international tourism, adding to the economic resilience of the region.

The digital economy (including e-commerce, e-health, e-payments, customs automation) at the regional level is expected to grow from $300 billion to almost $1 trillion by 2030. This is reported to reach $2 trillion if the right kind of digital connectivity policies are put in place through regional cooperation.

Member countries should consider their collective actions as a regional public good, where benefits from greater trade, travel, digitalization, and connectivity will deliver on sustainable and resilient outcomes for people residing in the region.

The Digital Economy Framework Agreement is a key element of this cooperation. It centers around digital standards, data flow, cybersecurity, digital trade, talent mobility and other digital public infrastructure.

Additional benefits from digital cooperation are expected through positive climate impact, creating $12-30 billion in social cost savings, enhancing resilience, creating new employment and improving accessibility of people to educational and healthcare resources.

Finally, connectivity that is both physical and institutional in nature is expected to serve the economic competitiveness of ASEAN countries, raising their capacity to engage better with bigger economies of Asia and elsewhere. Sustainable infrastructure – clean energy, low-carbon transport and improved energy efficiency for urban infrastructure – is gaining traction.

Combining this with greater cooperation around digitalization, seamless cross-border logistics and supply chains, facilitating the cross-border movement of goods, services and people will safeguard the environment and foster resilience of the countries in the region.

The collective thinking about sustainable infrastructure is helpful for ASEAN member countries that have committed to the Paris Agreement and have submitted their Nationally Determined Contributions targeting net zero carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 2050 and net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2065, to limit temperature increases of no more than 1.5°C.

It is opportune for ASEAN policymakers to think afresh on ways to work together. Although there are signs of economic fragmentation at a global level, there are also areas that require cross-border cooperation.

Economic independence has grown over time in the region. With emerging pressing issues of digitalization and climate change, mismanaged interdependence may result in costs and lead to economic setbacks.

Therefore, for the next term of ASEAN regional cooperation 2045, the member countries should consider their collective actions as a regional public good, where benefits from greater trade, travel, digitalization, connectivity will deliver sustainable and resilient outcomes for people in the region.

MIL OSI Economics –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: A delegation from the Republic of Indonesia visited NSU on a working visit

Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

Today, NSU was visited by a delegation from the Republic of Indonesia headed by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus, Mr. Jose Antonio Morato Tavares. The meeting was attended by the rector of Novosibirsk State University, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Mikhail Fedoruk.

In his welcoming speech, Mikhail Fedoruk emphasized that expanding cooperation with the Republic of Indonesia in the educational and cultural spheres is part of the general vector for developing relations between the region and the largest island state in Southeast Asia.

— As the Governor of Novosibirsk Oblast Andrey Travnikov noted, in terms of trade turnover, Indonesia already ranks 5-6 among all importing and exporting countries with which Novosibirsk Oblast works. And, of course, there are reserves for further development of cooperation. Therefore, of course, we are interested in expanding our ties, including academic internships, student exchanges, and training Indonesian students here.

— As for strengthening our cooperation in the field of education, we are interested in specialties related to science, technology, mathematics. We know that Russia is very strong in these areas. The purpose of our visit to Novosibirsk State University is to get acquainted with the university in order to further increase the number of students sent to study in Russia, — said Mr. Jose Antonio Morato Tavares.

Currently, NSU has four students from the Republic of Indonesia studying, two of them in the General Medicine program. Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, one – on Faculty of Natural Sciences and one – on Faculty of Mechanics and MathematicsDuring the visit to NSU, the students met with the ambassador and shared their impressions of studying at the university.

— I was looking for a university that taught natural sciences well. When I was choosing a place to study, I learned about Akademgorodok and NSU, and decided to enroll here. I am very excited about the meeting with the ambassador, thanks to her, many Indonesians will learn about NSU and Novosibirsk. I hope that in the future our university will have more students from Indonesia, — said Yusfonda Dellastefani-Laventosa, a third-year student of the Faculty of Natural Sciences at NSU.

— I have been studying at NSU for 5 years now, and I really like it! I hope that our countries will build good relations. I am a little worried, because this is my first time at such a meeting, especially with the Ambassador of Indonesia, I think everything will go well, — shared his emotions 5th-year student of the Faculty of Medicine and Psychology of NSU Ibrahim Fat Audi.

The delegation of the Republic of Indonesia worked in the Novosibirsk Region for two days. During the visit, a meeting was held with the Governor of the Novosibirsk Region Andrey Travnikov, the delegation visited Akadempark and several Novosibirsk companies, and also took part in the opening of the exhibition “Necklace of the Equator”, dedicated to the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Indonesia. The exhibition will be held in the Novosibirsk State Art Museum until March 2.

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

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai’s response to Pope Francis’s 2025 World Day of Peace message

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

Details
2025-01-17
President Lai meets former US Vice President Mike Pence
On the afternoon of January 17, President Lai Ching-te met with former Vice President of the United States Mike Pence. In remarks, President Lai thanked former Vice President Pence for his contributions to the deepening of Taiwan-US relations, noting that he actively helped to strengthen Taiwan-US cooperation and facilitate the normalization of military sales to Taiwan, and did his utmost to deepen the Taiwan-US economic partnership. The president indicated that former Vice President Pence also spoke up for Taiwan on numerous occasions at international venues, backing Taiwan’s international participation. President Lai expressed hope for a stronger Taiwan-US partnership to maintain peace and stability throughout the world, and that the two sides can advance bilateral exchanges in such areas as the economy, trade, and industry. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I am delighted to welcome former Vice President Pence and Mrs. Karen Pence to the Presidential Office. Former Vice President Pence is not only an outstanding political leader in the US, but also a staunch supporter of Taiwan on the international stage. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to take this opportunity to extend our deepest gratitude to former Vice President Pence for his contributions to the deepening of Taiwan-US relations. Thanks to former Vice President Pence’s strong backing, ties between Taiwan and the US rose to unprecedented heights during President Donald Trump’s first administration. Former Vice President Pence actively helped to strengthen Taiwan-US security cooperation and facilitate the normalization of military sales to Taiwan, helping Taiwan reinforce its self-defense capabilities. He also did his utmost to deepen the Taiwan-US economic partnership. Former Vice President Pence also paid close attention to the military threats and diplomatic isolation faced by Taiwan. He spoke up for Taiwan on numerous occasions at international venues, taking concrete action to back Taiwan’s international participation. We were truly grateful for this. As we speak, China’s political and military intimidation against Taiwan persist. China and other authoritarian regimes, such as Russia, North Korea, and Iran, are continuing to converge and present serious challenges to democracies around the globe. At this moment, free and democratic nations must come together to bolster cooperation. I believe that a stronger Taiwan-US partnership can be an even more powerful force in maintaining peace and stability throughout the world. Former Vice President Pence has previously supported the signing of a trade agreement between Taiwan and the US. Taiwan looks forward to continuing to work with the new US administration and Congress to advance bilateral exchanges in such areas as the economy, trade, and industry. This is the first time that former Vice President Pence and Mrs. Pence are visiting Taiwan, and their visit is significantly meaningful for Taiwan-US exchanges. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I want to extend a warm welcome. Moving forward, I hope we will jointly realize even more fruitful achievements through Taiwan-US cooperation. Former Vice President Pence then delivered remarks, thanking President Lai for his hospitality on his and his wife’s first visit to Taiwan, saying that it is an honor to be here to reaffirm the bonds of friendship between the people of America and the people of Taiwan, which are strong and longstanding. The former vice president indicated that the American people admire the people of Taiwan and all that has been accomplished in a few short decades for Taiwan to rise to one of the world’s preeminent economic powers and free societies. He said that he is grateful for President Lai’s courageous and bold leadership of Taiwan, and grateful to be able to express the support of the overwhelming majority of the American people for this alliance. Former Vice President Pence indicated that the values shared by Taiwan and the US, including freedom, the rule of law, and respect for human rights, bind us together in a partnership that transcends geographic boundaries and cultures. He then assured President Lai that China’s increasingly aggressive posture in the Taiwan Strait and across the Indo-Pacific, for the values and interests that both sides share, is deeply concerning to the American people. Former Vice President Pence stated that America is a Pacific nation, and is committed to the status quo, adding that they recognize it is China that wants to change the status quo that America, Taiwan, and other allies in the region want to preserve, which has created an environment of extraordinary growth and prosperity. The former vice president concluded by once again thanking President Lai and his team for their gracious hospitality and conveying best wishes to him and the people of Taiwan. Former Vice President Pence then assured President Lai that just as Taiwan will never surrender its freedom, he will continue to be a voice for a strong US-Taiwan relationship in the defense and the benefit of Taiwan, the US, and the free world. Later that day, Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao hosted a banquet for former Vice President Pence and his delegation at Taipei Guest House to thank him for his longstanding friendship and staunch support for Taiwan-US ties.

Details
2025-01-17
President Lai meets delegation to 60th Inaugural Ceremonies of US president and vice president
On the morning of January 16, President Lai Ching-te met with Taiwan’s delegation to the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies of the President and Vice President of the United States. In remarks, President Lai stated that democratic Taiwan stands united, working hard to deepen Taiwan-US ties together. He then entrusted the delegation with three missions: to convey best wishes from the people of Taiwan, convey our firm commitment to democracy, and help Taiwan-US relations reach a new milestone. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: The 60th Inaugural Ceremonies of the President and Vice President of the US will be held on January 20. I want to thank Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜), president of the Legislative Yuan, for accepting my invitation to lead our nation’s representative delegation to the event. I also thank Legislative Yuan Members Ko Chih-en (柯志恩), Wang Ting-yu (王定宇), Ko Ju-chun (葛如鈞), Lee Yen-hsiu (李彥秀), Chen Kuan-ting (陳冠廷), Kuo Yu-ching (郭昱晴), and Chen Gau-tzu (陳昭姿) for joining this visit to the US to attend the inauguration of President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance. We have gathered together today despite differences in party affiliation because in democratic Taiwan, while parties may compete domestically, when it comes to engagement externally, they stand united and share responsibility, working hard to deepen Taiwan-US ties and strive for the best interests of the nation. We share the value of defending freedom and democracy, and we share the goal of advancing peace and prosperity. Today, we engage with the world together as those from the same country – the Republic of China (Taiwan). In this complex and volatile new international landscape, and as the nation faces difficulties and challenges, I want to stress that in Formosa, there is no hostility that cannot be let go, and no hardship that cannot be overcome. Unity is the most important, and I hope that Taiwan can stand united, because there is true strength in unity. Democratic Taiwan must stand united in engaging with the world and initiate exchanges with confidence. On that ground, I am entrusting this delegation with three key missions. First, convey best wishes from the people of Taiwan. Just last year, Taiwan and the US celebrated the 45th anniversary of the passage of the Taiwan Relations Act. And on May 20, the US sent a senior bipartisan delegation to congratulate me and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao on our inauguration. As the leader of this cross-party delegation, Speaker Han must clearly convey the well-wishes of the people of Taiwan, congratulate President Trump and Vice President Vance on their inauguration, and wish success to the new administration and prosperity to the US. Second, clearly convey the firm commitment of the people of Taiwan to democracy. The theme of these inaugural ceremonies is “Our Enduring Democracy: A Constitutional Promise.” Taiwan and the US share the universal value of democracy and are staunch allies. I hope that the delegation can faithfully convey the firm commitment to democracy that the people of Taiwan have, which will not change even in the face of authoritarian threats. Taiwan is willing to stand side by side with the US and other members of the democratic community to defend the sustainable development of global democracy and prevent the expansion of authoritarianism. Third, help Taiwan-US relations reach a new milestone. In recent years, Taiwan-US relations have continued to grow, with the first agreement under the Taiwan-US Initiative on 21st Century Trade having formally taken effect last month. This morning, the House of Representatives also passed the US-Taiwan Expedited Double-Tax Relief Act. I hope that the delegation can help Taiwan-US relations reach a new milestone through these exchanges so that our relations continue to grow, our cooperation expands even more, and so that we can achieve even greater success after the new administration takes office. Four years ago, Taiwan’s representative to the US inaugural ceremonies was Vice President Hsiao, who was then our representative to the US. Everyone has a lot to learn from her. I have specially invited everyone here to converse so that you can draw from Vice President Hsiao’s experience and ensure an even smoother visit. Washington, DC was also hit by a rare blizzard recently, and the weather has been very cold, so make sure to stay warm. I am sending everyone off with hand warmers and thermoses so that you can bring some warmth from Taiwan with you on your journey. And I ask that Speaker Han exercise his wisdom to help generate some warmth between the ruling and opposition parties through cooperation, which they can then bring back to Taiwan. Let us unite to give our all for diplomacy so that we can unite to give our all for Taiwan. I wish the delegation a smooth and safe trip, and hope your missions can be carried out successfully. Speaker Han then delivered remarks, stating that it was an honor to be invited by President Lai to organize a delegation to represent our nation at the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies of the President and Vice President of the US in Washington, DC, and express the Republic of China’s sincere and cordial best wishes. The Legislative Yuan’s president has assumed this important task numerous times in the past, he said, not only to represent the government of the Republic of China, but also to take on the mission of conveying the voices of 23 million people. He went on to say that he is honored to take up the baton, lead eight legislators to the US to attend this celebration that will attract global attention, and express sincere best wishes to newly elected President Trump, Vice President Vance, and the new administration’s team. As enjoined by President Lai, he hopes the delegation’s trip will help open a new chapter in Taiwan-US exchanges. Speaker Han stated that the US is the most free and democratic country in the world. He noted that in 1776 in the US Declaration of Independence, founding father Thomas Jefferson propounded the concept of “unalienable rights,” and emphasized that the people have a right to freedom and the pursuit of happiness, democratic ideas that have long been rooted in the people’s hearts. Today, he said, democracy is also embedded in the DNA of Taiwan’s 23 million people, and this hard-won democratic achievement is a result of the concerted efforts of our pioneering predecessors, thinkers, and activists over the past 100 years. Speaker Han stated that during this visit, the Legislative Yuan delegation hopes to convey the voice of Taiwan as a democratic country. Taiwan’s security, he said, is like the four legs of a table: The first leg is defending the Republic of China, the second is defending freedom and democracy, the third is maintaining Taiwan-US relations, and the fourth is maintaining cross-strait peace. The delegation will travel to the US amidst severe cold weather to show that we value our relationship with the US, and our citizens have great hopes and expectations. Speaker Han stated that this will be a cross-party delegation of eight legislators, all of whom have a strong sense of mission. He hopes that all democratic nations will acknowledge Taiwan’s importance, and pay attention to Taiwan’s 23 million people. The delegation, he said, will do its utmost to convey the goodwill and warmth that the people of Taiwan give to each and every one of our good friends.

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2025-01-17
President Lai confers decoration on former Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis
On the morning of January 14, President Lai Ching-te conferred the Order of Brilliant Star with Special Grand Cordon upon former Minister of Foreign Affairs Gabrielius Landsbergis of the Republic of Lithuania in recognition of his remarkable contributions to deepening Taiwan-Lithuania relations. In remarks, President Lai thanked former Minister Landsbergis for standing firmly with Taiwan and remaining a staunch defender of democratic values, yielding fruitful cooperative results. The president expressed hope that the two countries will engage in even more cooperation and exchanges in such areas as the economy, trade, technology, and culture, and continue to advocate for the values of freedom and democracy so that together we can contribute even more to our nations’ development and to peace and prosperity throughout the world. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: Today, by conferring the Order of Brilliant Star with Special Grand Cordon upon former Minister Landsbergis, we recognize his outstanding contributions during his time as foreign minister of Lithuania. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I thank him for the key role he has played in deepening Taiwan-Lithuania relations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, thanks to the efforts of former Minister Landsbergis, Lithuania was the first European nation to donate vaccines to Taiwan. On that occasion, he stated that “freedom-loving people should look out for each other.” His statement was very moving and left a deep impression on many Taiwanese people. We will never forget it. Former Minister Landsbergis has continued to express the spirit of those words through his concrete actions. With his staunch support, Taiwan and Lithuania have mutually established representative offices. Moreover, our representative office in Lithuania was the first in Europe to incorporate “Taiwan” in its name. As for bilateral cooperation, Taiwan and Lithuania have seen fruitful results in such fields as semiconductors, laser technology, finance, and medicine. Be it overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic or resisting expanding authoritarianism, former Minister Landsbergis has stood firmly with Taiwan and remained a staunch defender of democratic values. We greatly admire and appreciate his spirit. Today, authoritarian regimes continue to converge, posing threats and challenges to democracies around the world. Taiwan, Lithuania, and other democratic countries must come closer together, drawing on the strength of unity, so as to jointly safeguard freedom and democracy and uphold the rules-based international order. Looking ahead, we hope that Taiwan and Lithuania will engage in even more cooperation and exchanges in such areas as the economy, trade, technology, and culture. Let us continue to advocate for the values of freedom and democracy. Together, we can contribute even more to our nations’ development and to peace and prosperity throughout the world. In closing, I once again thank you, former Minister Landsbergis, for your support and for all that you have done for Taiwan. We welcome you and your wife to visit often. I wish you both a smooth and successful visit in Taiwan, and hope you leave with lasting memories. Former Minister Landsbergis then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great honor to receive the decoration today. He noted that only partially can he accept the honor, as there have been many people who worked together with him in the ministry and in the whole country who support the people of Taiwan and see the benefit of supporting democracy in Taiwan. He often says that in Lithuania they remember well the fight for their freedom, and just today, he mentioned, he was shown the permanent exhibition in the Presidential Office, where he saw similar pictures of Taiwanese people fighting for democracy. He emphasized that not even one generation has passed since these events took place here in Taipei or similar events took place in Vilnius. Former Minister Landsbergis said that decision-makers in the Lithuanian government are either people who were themselves fighting for freedom, or, as in his case, those who were sitting on the shoulders of parents who were fighting for freedom. So for them, he underlined, freedom, democracy, liberty, and sovereignty are very real concepts that they cherish, not just things read about in a history book. He said that this is the main connector between Lithuania and Taiwan, a feeling of freedom and support for each other. Former Minister Landsbergis stated that in the face of authoritarians who do not wish us prosperity, who do not wish us freedom and future achievements, what he expects from the future is that the friendship, collaboration, and mutual support between Lithuania and Taiwan will inspire others to join in. This, he said, will make other countries not be afraid to support freedom and democracy, and will allow our group of friends to continue to grow. Lithuanian history, the former minister said, is difficult, and a big part of it was fighting for their freedom. He explained that during the 19th century when Lithuania was part of Russia’s empire, they had several revolutions and uprisings with the aim of becoming free, and that they were fighting for that freedom alongside Poland and Belarus. He then applied a phrase that they used in the revolution of 1864 – “for your freedom and ours,” meaning that they will continue to fight for their freedom while helping Taiwan fight for ours. Also in attendance at the ceremony were former Minister Landsbergis’ wife Dr. Austėja Landsbergienė and Lithuanian Representative to Taiwan Paulius Lukauskas.

Details
2025-01-17
Presidential Office thanks White House for its statement on enduring US commitment to Indo-Pacific region
On January 10 (US EST), the US White House released a statement on the United States’ Enduring Commitment to the Indo-Pacific Region, in which it reaffirms its position of using a range of methods to help Taiwan maintain a sufficient self-defense capability so as to maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and across the Taiwan Strait. Presidential Office Spokesperson Karen Kuo (郭雅慧) on January 11 expressed sincere gratitude to the US government for taking concrete actions to fulfill its security commitments to Taiwan, advancing the close Taiwan-US security partnership, and supporting Taiwan in its efforts to enhance its self-defense capabilities and resilience. Spokesperson Kuo stated that the deepening Taiwan-US security partnership is a critical cornerstone for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. She noted that Taiwan, as a force for good and regional stability, will continue to work alongside like-minded countries to strengthen defense resilience as we jointly defend the values of freedom and democracy and ensure the peace, stability, and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region.

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2025-01-17
President Lai meets Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute delegation
On the morning of January 9, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute (RRPFI). In remarks, President Lai thanked RRPFI President David Trulio and members of RRPFI for remaining undaunted by China’s threats and sanctions, and lending great support to Taiwan. He emphasized that facing the continued expansion of authoritarianism, Taiwan will actively implement the Four Pillars of Peace action plan to preserve regional peace and stability, safeguard the values of democracy and freedom, and advance worldwide prosperity and development. President Lai expressed hope that they can continue to collaborate to promote the development of Taiwan-United States relations and put RRPFI’s principles into practice. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: First, let me warmly welcome President Trulio, who is leading this delegation from RRPFI to Taiwan. And on behalf of all the people of Taiwan, I want to extend our heartfelt condolences in wake of the ongoing fires in California. I hope that they can be put out swiftly so that harm is reduced, and I hope that those who are injured are able to receive timely help. President Reagan was a staunch friend of Taiwan. The Six Assurances he put forward in 1982 and the Taiwan Relations Act passed by Congress in 1979 form the bedrock of Taiwan-US relations. The incorporation of the Six Assurances into the Asia Reassurance Initiative Act of 2018 further established bipartisan, bicameral, and cross-agency US support for Taiwan. With authoritarianism continuing to expand, President Reagan’s conviction of peace through strength is proving to be especially crucial as democracies unite to protect freedom, democracy, peace, and the rules-based international order. RRPFI honors President Reagan’s legacy by championing such principles as individual liberty, economic opportunity, global democracy, and national pride. Many of you have served previous US administrations as part of national security teams, and many of you are longstanding friends of Taiwan. I sincerely hope that we can continue to collaborate to promote the development of Taiwan-US relations and put RRPFI’s principles into practice. I also want to extend particular gratitude to President Trulio and RRPFI for lending great support to Taiwan. Undaunted by China’s threats and sanctions, you warmly welcomed former President Tsai Ing-wen to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library during her stopover in California in April 2023 and arranged a delegation to visit Taiwan in October of the same year. As for the continued expansion of authoritarianism, Taiwan will meet it head on, and uphold President Reagan’s spirit of peace through strength. We will actively implement the Four Pillars of Peace action plan by strengthening national defense, building economic security, and demonstrating stable and principled cross-strait leadership, as well as promoting values-based diplomacy. Bolstering Taiwan’s cooperation with the US and other democracies will preserve regional peace and stability, safeguard the values of democracy and freedom, and advance worldwide prosperity and development. President Trulio then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for his warm welcome and saying that he and the delegation are deeply honored to be with him in Taiwan, along with so many top leaders in his administration. President Trulio added that they are proud to advance President Reagan’s legacy and timeless principles, and our collective shared values. President Trulio indicated that President Reagan visited Taiwan twice before he became president. Acknowledging what President Lai stated, he noted that it was President Reagan’s administration that developed what became known as the Six Assurances, a framework that to this day serves as the foundation of relations between the US and Taiwan. More broadly, President Trulio said, President Reagan knew that America’s strength and the strength of its allies and friends are key to global peace, prosperity, and security. He said President Reagan also knew that societies that provide economic opportunity and democracy offer a better life for their citizens. In fact, he stated, President Reagan said that freedom is not the sole prerogative of a lucky few, but the inalienable and universal right of all human beings. President Trulio went on to say that Taiwan’s open society and thriving democracy make the commitment to freedom here plain for all to see. President Trulio noted that RRPFI had the honor of visiting Taipei in October 2023, when the delegation met then-President Tsai. He said that their return visit to Taipei at the start of 2025 comes at a crucial time, and that part of what makes that timing so significant is that there will be a new administration inaugurated in Washington in about 10 days. Over the course of their visits to Taiwan, President Trulio said, it has been plain to see that Taiwan stands strong as a vibrant democracy, with political parties sharing a commitment to democratic principles. He said it is also plain to see that Taiwan’s advanced economy and global technological leadership present positive opportunities for the US. He added that it is also plain to see that the security situation across the Taiwan Strait demands a continued commitment to peace through strength, including through robust partnership with Taiwan and sustained US deterrence. President Trulio stated that he looks forward to addressing the opportunities and challenges facing Taiwan and the US, and is confident that together, we will further well into the future our shared commitment to freedom and democracy, economic opportunity, and security and stability. The delegation also included RRPFI Washington Director Roger Zakheim, Director of the Alexander Hamilton Center for Classical and Civic Education at the University of Florida William Inboden, Palantir Technologies Senior Counselor Jamie Fly, former Deputy White House Staff Secretary Catherine Bellah, Anduril Industries Policy Director Dustin Walker, Hudson Institute Adjunct Fellow Alexander Benard, RRPFI Policy Director Rachel Hoff, and RRPFI Digital Strategy and Communications Director James Rogers.

Details
2025-01-01
President Lai delivers 2025 New Year’s Address
On the morning of January 1, President Lai Ching-te delivered his 2025 New Year’s Address, titled “Bolstering National Strength through Democracy to Enter a New Global Landscape,” in the Reception Hall of the Presidential Office. President Lai stated that today’s Taiwan is receiving international recognition for its performance in many areas, among them democracy, technology, and economy. In this new year, he said, Taiwan must be united, and we must continue on the right course. The president expressed hope that everyone in the central and local governments, regardless of party, can work hard together, allowing Taiwan sure footing as it strides forward toward ever greater achievements. President Lai emphasized that in 2025, we must keep firm on the path of democracy, continue to bolster our national strength, make Taiwan more economically resilient, enhance the resilience of supply chains for global democracies, and continue working toward a Balanced Taiwan and generational justice, ensuring that the fruits of our economic growth can be enjoyed by all our people. The president said that Taiwan will keep going strong, and we will keep walking tall as we enter the new global landscape. A translation of President Lai’s address follows: Today is the first day of 2025. With a new year comes new beginnings. I wish that Taiwan enjoys peace, prosperity, and success, and that our people lead happy lives. Taiwan truly finished 2024 strong. Though there were many challenges, there were also many triumphs. We withstood earthquakes and typhoons, and stood firm in the face of constant challenges posed by authoritarianism. We also shared glory as Taiwan won the Premier12 baseball championship, and now Taiwanese people around the world are all familiar with the gesture for Team Taiwan. At the Paris Olympics, Wang Chi-lin (王齊麟) and Lee Yang (李洋) clinched another gold in men’s doubles badminton. Lin Yu-ting (林郁婷) took home Taiwan’s first Olympic gold in boxing. At the International Junior Science Olympiad, every student in our delegation of six won a gold medal. And Yang Shuang-zi’s (楊双子) novel Taiwan Travelogue, translated into English by King Lin (金翎), became a United States National Book Award winner and a tour de force of Taiwan literature on the international level. Our heroes of Taiwan are defined by neither age nor discipline. They have taken home top prizes at international competitions and set new records. They tell Taiwan’s story through their outstanding performances, letting the world see the spirit and culture of Taiwan, and filling all our citizens with pride. My fellow citizens, we have stood together through thick and thin; we have shared our ups and downs. We have wept together, and we have laughed together. We are all one family, all members of Team Taiwan. I want to thank each of our citizens for their dedication, fueling Taiwan’s progress and bringing our nation glory. You have given Taiwan even greater strength to stand out on the global stage. In this new year, we must continue bringing Taiwan’s stories to the world, and make Taiwan’s successes a force for global progress. In 2025, the world will be entering a new landscape. Last year, over 70 countries held elections, and the will of the people has changed with the times. As many countries turn new pages politically, and in the midst of rapid international developments, Taiwan must continue marching forward with steady strides. First, we must keep firm on the path of democracy. Taiwan made it through a dark age of authoritarianism and has since become a glorious beacon of democracy in Asia. This was achieved through the sacrifices of our democratic forebears and the joint efforts of all our citizens. Democracy’s value to Taiwan lies not just in our free way of life, or in the force driving the diverse and vigorous growth of our society. Democracy is the brand that has earned us international trust in terms of diplomacy. No matter the threat or challenge Taiwan may face, democracy is Taiwan’s only path forward. We will not turn back. Domestic competition among political parties is a part of democracy. But domestic political disputes must be resolved democratically, within the constitutional system. This is the only way democracy can continue to grow. The Executive Yuan has the right to request a reconsideration of the controversial bills passed in the Legislative Yuan, giving it room for reexamination. Constitutional institutions can also lodge a petition for a constitutional interpretation, and through Constitutional Court adjudication, ensure a separation of powers, safeguard constitutional order, and gradually consolidate the constitutional system. The people also have the right of election, recall, initiative, and referendum, and can bring together even greater democratic power to show the true meaning of sovereignty in the hands of the people. In this new year, the changing international landscape will present democratic nations around the world with many grave challenges. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and conflict between Israel and Hamas rage on, and we are seeing the continued convergence of authoritarian regimes including China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran, threatening the rules-based international order and severely affecting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and the world at large. Peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are essential components for global security and prosperity. Taiwan needs to prepare for danger in times of peace. We must continue increasing our national defense budget, bolster our national defense capabilities, and show our determination to protect our country. Everyone has a responsibility to safeguard Taiwan’s democracy and security. We must gather together every bit of strength we have to enhance whole-of-society defense resilience, and build capabilities to respond to major disasters and deter threats or encroachment. We must also strengthen communication with society to combat information and cognitive warfare, so that the populace rejects threats and enticements and jointly guards against malicious infiltration by external forces. Here at home, we must consolidate democracy with democracy. Internationally, we must make friends worldwide through democracy. This is how we will ensure security and peace. The more secure Taiwan, the more secure the world. The more resilient Taiwan, the sounder the defense of global democracy. The global democratic community should work even closer together to support the democratic umbrella as we seek ways to resolve the war in Ukraine and conflict between Israel and Hamas. Together, we must uphold stability in the Taiwan Strait and security in the Indo-Pacific, and achieve our goal of global peace. Second, we must continue to bolster our national strength, make Taiwan more economically resilient, and enhance the resilience of supply chains for global democracies. In the first half of 2024, growth in the Taiwan Stock Index was the highest in the world. Our economic growth rate for the year as a whole is expected to reach 4.2 percent, leading among the Four Asian Tigers. Domestic investment is soaring, having exceeded NT$5 trillion, and inflation is gradually stabilizing. Export orders from January to November totaled US$536.6 billion, up 3.7 percent from the same period in 2023. And compared over the same period, exports saw a 9.9 percent increase, reaching US$431.5 billion. Recent surveys also show that in 2024, the average increase in salaries at companies was higher than that in 2023. Additionally, over 90 percent of companies plan to raise salaries this year, which is an eight-year high. All signs indicate that Taiwan’s economic climate continues to recover, and that our economy is growing steadily. Our overall economic performance is impressive; still, we must continue to pay attention to the impact on Taiwan’s industries from the changing geopolitical landscape, uncertainties in the global economic environment, and dumping by the “red supply chain.” For a nation, all sectors and professions are equally important; only when all our industries are strong can Taiwan be strong as a nation. Our micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are the lifeblood of Taiwan, and the development of our various industrial parks has given Taiwan the impetus for our prosperity. We must carry the spirit of “Made in Taiwan” forward, bringing it to ever greater heights. Thus, beyond just developing our high-tech industry, our Executive Yuan has already proposed a solution that will help traditional industries and MSMEs comprehensively adopt technology applications, engage in the digital and net-zero twin transition, and develop channels, all for better operational structures and higher productivity. Taiwan must continue enhancing its economic resilience. In recent years, Taiwan has significantly increased its investments in the US, Japan, Europe, and the New Southbound countries, and such investment has already surpassed investment in China. This indicates that our efforts in diversifying markets and reducing reliance on any single market are working. Moving forward, we must keep providing assistance so that Taiwan industries can expand their global presence and market internationally from a solid base here in Taiwan. At the same time, Taiwan must use democracy to promote economic growth with the rest of the world. We must leverage our strengths in the semiconductor and AI industries. We must link with democratic countries so that we can together enhance the resilience of supply chains for global democracies. And through international cooperation across many sectors, such as UAVs, low-orbit communications satellites, robots, military, security and surveillance, or biopharmaceuticals, renewable energy technology, new agriculture, and the circular economy, we must keep abreast of the latest cutting-edge technology and promote diverse development. This approach will help Taiwan remain a leader in advancing global democratic supply chains, ensuring their security and stability. Third, we must continue working toward a Balanced Taiwan and generational justice, ensuring that the fruits of our economic growth can be enjoyed by all our people. Democracy means the people have the final say. Our nation belongs to all 23 million of us, without regard for ethnic group, generation, political party, or whether we live in urban or rural areas. In this new year, we must continue to pursue policies that promote the well-being of the nation and the people. But to that end, the central government needs adequate financial resources to ensure that it can enact each of these measures. Therefore, I hope that the ruling and opposition parties can each soberly reconsider the amendments to the Act Governing the Allocation of Government Revenues and Expenditures and find a path forward that ensures the lasting peace and stability of our country. For nine consecutive years, the minimum wage has continued to rise. Effective today, the minimum monthly salary is being raised from NT$27,470 to NT$28,590, and the hourly salary from NT$183 to NT$190. We hope by raising the pay for military personnel, civil servants, and educators for two consecutive years, coupled with benefits through wage increases and tax reductions, that private businesses will also raise wages, allowing all our people to enjoy the fruits of our economic growth. I know that everyone wants to pay lower taxes and rent. This year, we will continue to promote tax reductions. For example, unmarried individuals with an annual income of NT$446,000 or less can be exempt from paying income tax. Dual-income families with an annual income of NT$892,000 or less and dual-income families with two children aged six or younger with an annual income of NT$1,461,000 or less are also exempt from paying income tax. Additionally, the number of rent-subsidized housing units will also be increased, from 500,000 to 750,000 units, helping lighten the load for everyone. This year, the age eligibility for claiming Culture Points has been lowered from 16 to 13 years, so that now young people aged between 13 and 22 can receive government support for experiencing more in the arts. Also, our Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative is about to take effect, which will help more young people in Taiwan realize their dreams by taking part in education and exchange activities in many places around the world. We are also in the process of establishing a sports ministry to help young athletes achieve their dreams on the field, court, and beyond. The ministry will also be active in developing various sports industries and bringing sports and athletics more into the lives of the people, making our people healthier as a result. This year, as Taiwan becomes a “super-aged society,” we will launch our Long-term Care 3.0 Plan to provide better all-around care for our seniors. And we will expand the scope of cancer screening eligibility and services, all aimed at creating a Healthy Taiwan. In addition, Taiwan will officially begin collecting fees for its carbon fee system today. This brings us closer in line with global practices and helps us along the path to our goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. We will also continue on the path to achieving a Balanced Taiwan. Last month, the Executive Yuan launched the Trillion NT Dollar Investment National Development Plan and its six major regional flagship projects. Both of these initiatives will continue to expand the investment in our public infrastructure and the development of local specialty industries, narrowing urban-rural and wealth gaps so that all our people can live and work in peace and happiness. My fellow citizens, today’s Taiwan is receiving international recognition for its performance in many areas, among them democracy, technology, and economy. This tells us that national development is moving in the right direction. In this new year, Taiwan must be united, and we must continue on the right course. We hope that everyone in the central and local governments, regardless of party, can work hard together to ensure that national policies are successfully implemented, with the people’s well-being as our top priority. This will allow Taiwan sure footing as it strides forward toward ever greater achievements. In this new year, we have many more brilliant stories of Taiwan to share with the world, inspiring all Taiwanese, both here and around the world, to cheer time and again for the glory of Taiwan. Taiwan will keep going strong. And we will keep walking tall as we enter the new global landscape. Thank you.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 31, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fewer Rain Days In The First Fortnight Of February 2025

Source: Asia Pacific Region 2 – Singapore

Singapore, 31 January 2025 – The prevailing Northeast Monsoon conditions are forecast to continue, with winds blowing mainly from the northwest or northeast.

2 In the first fortnight of February 2025, fair and occasionally windy conditions may occur on some days. Fewer rain days are expected, although there may be localised short-duration thundery showers over parts of the island on several afternoons. The total rainfall for the first fortnight of February 2025 is forecast to be below average over most parts of the island.

3 The daily maximum temperatures are likely to range between 33 degrees Celsius and 34 degrees Celsius on most days and slightly exceed 34 degrees Celsius on a few days.

4 For updates of the daily weather forecast, please visit the MSS website (www.weather.gov.sg), NEA website (www.nea.gov.sg), or download the myENV app.

REVIEW OF THE PAST TWO WEEKS (16 – 30 JANUARY 2025)

5 Northeast Monsoon conditions prevailed over Singapore and the surrounding region in the second fortnight of January 2025. During the period, the low-level winds blew mainly from the north or northeast.

6 Showers fell over parts of the island on most afternoons in the second fortnight of January 2025. On 17 – 19 January 2025, a surge of north-easterly winds (or monsoon surge [1]) over the South China Sea brought occasional spells of showers over Singapore and the surrounding region. On 26 January 2025, heavy thundery showers fell over the southern and western parts of Singapore in the afternoon. The daily total rainfall of 75.2 mm recorded at Sunset Way that day was the highest rainfall recorded for the second fortnight of January 2025.

7 The daily maximum temperatures in the second fortnight of January 2025 were below 31 degrees Celsius on most days. The highest daily maximum temperature of 32.4 degree Celsius was recorded at Newton on 25 January 2025.

8 Singapore recorded well below average rainfall in the second fortnight of January 2025. The area around Sembawang registered rainfall of about 84 per cent below average.

CLIMATE STATION STATISTICS

Long-term Statistics for February (*Climatological reference period: 1991-2020)*
Average daily maximum temperature:	31.5	°C
Average daily minimum temperature:	24.6	°C
Average monthly temperature:	27.3	°C

Average rainfall:	105.1	mm
Average number of rain days:	9

*Historical Extremes for February* *(Rainfall since 1869 and temperature since 1929)*
Highest monthly mean daily maximum temperature:	33.5	°C (2010)
Lowest monthly mean daily minimum temperature:	21.6	°C (1930, 1934)

Highest monthly rainfall ever recorded:	566.7	mm (1910)
Lowest monthly rainfall ever recorded:	0.2	mm (2014)

[1] A monsoon surge refers to a strengthening of winds over the South China Sea, causing extensive rainclouds to form over our surrounding region.

METEOROLOGICAL SERVICE SINGAPORE

31 Jan 2025

~~ End ~~

For more information, please submit your enquiries electronically via the Online Feedback Form or myENV mobile application.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 31, 2025

MIL-OSI: SBM Offshore completes the Share Purchase Agreements with MISC Berhad

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Amsterdam, January 31, 2025

SBM Offshore confirms it has completed the transactions related to the Share Purchase Agreements announced on September 6, 2024 with its partner MISC Berhad for:

i) the acquisition of MISC Berhad’s entire effective equity interest in the lease and operating entities related to the FPSO Espirito Santo in Brazil; and

ii) the full divestment to MISC Berhad of SBM Offshore’s effective equity interest in the lease and operating entities of the FPSO Kikeh in Malaysia.

This transaction furthers SBM Offshore’s efforts to rationalize our portfolio to ‘maintain focus and excellence’ of our operations.

Corporate Profile

SBM Offshore is the world’s deepwater ocean-infrastructure expert. Through the design, construction, installation, and operation of offshore floating facilities, we play a pivotal role in a just transition. By advancing our core, we deliver cleaner, more efficient energy production. By pioneering more, we unlock new markets within the blue economy.
More than 7,400 SBMers collaborate worldwide to deliver innovative solutions as a responsible partner towards a sustainable future, balancing ocean protection with progress.
For further information, please visit our website at www.sbmoffshore.com.

Financial Calendar	Date	Year
Full Year 2024 Earnings	February 20	2025
Annual General Meeting	April 9	2025
First Quarter 2025 Trading Update	May 15	2025
Half Year 2025 Earnings	August 7	2025
Third Quarter 2025 Trading Update	November 13	2025

For further information, please contact:
Investor Relations

Wouter Holties
Corporate Finance & Investor Relations Manager

Media Relations

Giampaolo Arghittu
Head of External Relations

Market Abuse Regulation
This press release may contain inside information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation.

Disclaimer
Some of the statements contained in this release that are not historical facts are statements of future expectations and other forward-looking statements based on management’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance, or events to differ materially from those in such statements. These statements may be identified by words such as ‘expect’, ‘should’, ‘could’, ‘shall’ and similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties. The principal risks which could affect the future operations of SBM Offshore N.V. are described in the ‘Impact, Risk and Opportunity Management’ section of the 2023 Annual Report.

Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results and performance of the Company’s business may vary materially and adversely from the forward-looking statements described in this release. SBM Offshore does not intend and does not assume any obligation to update any industry information or forward-looking statements set forth in this release to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise.

This release contains certain alternative performance measures (APMs) as defined by the ESMA guidelines which are not defined under IFRS. Further information on these APMs is included in the Half-Year Management Report accompanying the Half Year Earnings 2024 report, available on our website https://www.sbmoffshore.com/investors/financial-disclosures.

Nothing in this release shall be deemed an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities. The companies in which SBM Offshore N.V. directly and indirectly owns investments are separate legal entities. In this release “SBM Offshore” and “SBM” are sometimes used for convenience where references are made to SBM Offshore N.V. and its subsidiaries in general. These expressions are also used where no useful purpose is served by identifying the particular company or companies.

“SBM Offshore^®“, the SBM logomark, “Fast4Ward^®”, “emissionZERO^®” and “F4W^®” are proprietary marks owned by SBM Offshore.

Attachment

SBM Offshore completes the Share Purchase Agreements with MISC Berhad

The MIL Network –

January 31, 2025

MIL-Evening Report: Wenda calls for international inquiry into film claim that Indonesia is using chemical weapons in West Papua

Pacific Media Watch

A West Papuan advocacy group is calling for an urgent international inquiry into allegations that Indonesian security forces have used the chemical weapon white phosphorus against West Papuans for a second time.

The allegations were made in the new documentary, Frontier War, by Paradise Broadcasting.

In the film, West Papuan civilians give testimony about a number of children dying from sickness in the months folllowing the 2021 Kiwirok attack.

They say that “poisoning . . . occurred due to the bombings”, that “they throw the bomb and . . . chemicals come through the mouth”, said United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) interim president Benny Wenda.

They add that this was “the first time they’re throwing people up are not dying, but between one month later or two months later”, he said in a statement.

Bombings produced big “clouds of dust” and infants suffering the effects could not stop coughing up blood.

“White phosphorus is an evil weapon, even when used against combatants. It burns through skin and flesh and causes heart and liver failure,” said Wenda.

‘Crimes against defenceless civilians’
“But Indonesia is committing these crimes against humanity against defenceless civilians, elders, women and children.

“Thousands of Papuans in the border region were forced from their villages by these attacks, adding to the over 85,000 who are still internally displaced by militarisation.”

Indonesia previously used white phosphorus in Nduga in December 2018.

Journalists uncovered that victims were suffering deep burns down to the bone, typical with that weapon, as well as photographing yellow tipped bombs which military sources confirmed “appear to be incendiary or white phosphorus”.

The same yellow-tipped explosives were discovered in Kiwirok, and the fins from the recovered munitions are consistent with white phosphorus.

“As usual, Indonesia lied about using white phosphorus in Nduga,” said Wenda.

“They have also lied about even the existence of the Kiwirok attack — an operation that led to the deaths of over 300 men, women, and children.

“They lie, lie, lie.”

[embedded content]
Frontier War/ Inside the West Papua Liberation Army Video: Paradise Broadcasting

Proof needed after ‘opening up’
Wenda said the movement would not be able to obtain proof of these attacks — “of the atrocities being perpetrated daily against my people” — until Indonesia opened West Papua to the “eyes of the world”.

“West Papua is a prison island: no journalists, NGOs, or aid organisations are allowed to operate there. Even the UN is totally banned,” Wenda said.

Indonesia’s entire strategy in West Papua is secrecy. Their crimes have been hidden from the world for decades, through a combination of internet blackouts, repression of domestic journalists, and refusal of access to international media.”

Wenda said Indonesia must urgently facilitate the long-delayed UN Human Rights visit to West Papua, and allow journalists and NGOs to operate there without fear of imprisonment or repression.

“The MSG [Melanesian Spearhead Group], PIF [Pacific Islands Forum] and the OACPS [Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States] must again increase the pressure on Indonesia to allow a UN visit,” he said.
“The fake amnesty proposed by [President] Prabowo Subianto is contradictory as it does not also include a UN visit. Even if 10, 20 activists are released, our right to political expression is totally banned.”

Wenda said that Indonesia must ultimately “open their eyes” to the only long-term solution in West Papua — self-determination through an independence referendum.

Scenes from the Paradise Broadcasting documentary Frontier War. Images: Screenshots APR

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI: BW Energy: Fourth Quarter Results 2024
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

BW ENERGY FOURTH QUARTER RESULTS 2024

HIGHLIGHTS

•          Record Q4 EBITDA of USD 141.6 million, net profit of USD 56.8 million
•          Full-year revenue of USD 0.8 billion (+57%), EBITDA of USD 457.4 million (+90%) and net profit of USD 165.9 million (+105%)
•          Operational cash-flow of USD 117.7 million in the quarter
•          Q4 gross production of 4.0 mmbbls with 3.1 mmbbls net to BW Energy
•          Highest quarterly production since inception from the Dussafu licence
•          ESP replacement program completed as planned with 8 producing Hibiscus / Ruche wells from early 2025
•          Current gross production at Dussafu above 40,000 bbls/day
•          Maintained a strong balance sheet with cash position of USD 221.8 million

BW Energy, operator of the Dussafu Marin licence in Gabon and the Golfinho cluster offshore Brazil, reported a record quarterly EBITDA of USD 141.6 million for the fourth quarter of 2024. This was up from USD 130 million in the previous quarter on increased oil sales following all-time-high production in Gabon. The net production was 33,600 bbls/day, including the Tortue, Hibiscus, and Hibiscus South fields in the Dussafu licence (73.5% working interest or “WI”) and the Golfinho field (100% WI).

Full-year 2024 net production was approximately 10.1 million barrels of oil, up 69% from 2023. EBITDA was USD 457.4 million (USD 241.0 million). The full-year figures are preliminary and unaudited. BW Energy will publish audited 2024 figures on 26 February 2025.

“BW Energy delivers strong production growth, increased reserves and record financial performance in the fourth quarter and full year 2024 supported by new ESPs, successful appraisal wells and the completion of the Hibiscus / Ruche development,” said Carl K. Arnet, the CEO of BW Energy. “We have a pivotal 2025 ahead, executing on our strategy for growth and long-term value creation. Appraisal of the Bourdon structure in Gabon is ongoing, and we plan to sanction the Maromba development in Brazil in coming weeks. Then, in the second half we will drill the first Kudu appraisal in Namibia, a high impact well which may help unlock secure access to energy in a part of Southern Africa with unstable supply.”

DUSSAFU
BW Energy completed three liftings in the fourth quarter at an average realised price of USD 72.5/bbl. Net production was approximately 2.5 mmbbls of oil and the net sold volume, the basis for revenue recognition, was approximately 2.7 mmbbls including 97,500 bbls of DMO deliveries and 311,429 bbls of state profit oil with an under-lift position of 248,700 bbls at period-end.

Net production from the Dussafu licence averaged ~27,300 bbls/day, an increase of 36% from the previous quarter. Operating cost (excluding royalties) decreased to USD 18.5/bbl from USD 20.5/bbl in the third quarter due to operational efficiencies and increased production. Further cost savings are expected as BW Energy is preparing to take over the operations of the BW Adolo FPSO during the first half of 2025.

All ESP change outs were completed as planned and on 2 January 2025, Phase 1 of the Hibiscus / Ruche development was completed with eight producing wells, two more than planned at project sanction.

GOLFINHO
Net production from the Golfinho field averaged ~6,400 bbls/day equivalent to a total production of 585,000 bbls in the quarter, up 17% from the previous quarter. A planned shutdown of a Petrobras gas plant restricted gaslift capacity for approximately 40 days, with only ESP wells producing. One lifting was carried out of ~500,000 bbls at a realised price of USD 73.5/bbl. Remaining inventory was approximately 440,500 bbls at the end of the period. Operating cost (excluding royalties) averaged USD 56.4/bbl barrel, down from 63.3/bbl in the third quarter, primarily due to higher production.

OTHER ITEMS
At 31 December 2024, BW Energy had a cash balance of USD 221.8 million, compared to USD 209.8 million at end-September. The increase reflects cash flow from operations, debt repayment and investments. The Company had a total drawn debt balance of USD 563 million including the MaBoMo lease, the Dussafu RBL, the Golfinho prepayment facility and bond debt.

Production guidance for 2025 is between 11 and 12 mmbbls net to BW Energy. Full-year operating cost is expected to be USD 18 to 22/bbl (the basis for calculating unit operating cost has been revised from 2025 onwards to exclude royalties, tariffs, workovers, domestic market obligation purchases, production sharing costs, and incorporates the impact of IFRS 16 adjustments, primarily impacting Gabon operations). Net capital expenditures are expected at USD 260 to 285 million, including the appraisal well in Namibia. The capex guidance is excluding the Maromba development and the Golfinho Boosting project, both awaiting FID.

DEVELOPMENT PLANS
In Gabon, the Bourdon appraisal prospect, targeting potential gross recoverable reserves of ~30 million barrels in Gamba and Dentale formations, was spud earlier this month and results are expected during the first quarter. At end-October, BW Energy (37.5% WI and operator) signed production sharing contracts (PSCs) for the Niosi Marin and Guduma Marin exploration blocks, which are adjacent to the Dussafu licence and significantly expands the resource base for infrastructure-led exploration. Planning for a 3D seismic campaign is ongoing.

Work on optimising Golfinho production continued to focus on stabilising FPSO performance and selected future well workovers. BW Energy is preparing to commence the Golfinho Boosting project to replace current gaslift with ESPs in two wells to increase production and production regularity from mid-2026.

The Maromba development, targeting low-risk barrels in an oil-rich area with multiple producing assets, is progressing towards planned final investment decision (FID) next month based on the sustainable re-use of an FPSO and a jack-up with drilling capacity and dry trees. This enables a cost-efficient development with an investment budget of USD 1.2 billion and short pay-back time. Project financing is close to completion

In Namibia, BW Energy has sanctioned the drilling of an appraisal well targeting the Kharas Prospect northwest in the Kudu licence with planned start-up drilling operations in the third quarter. Long-lead items have been secured and the Company is reviewing offers for rig capacity. There is a close dialogue with other operators in the Orange Basin on exploring common use available resources. Development planning and concept selection for the Kudu gas-to-power project also continued with relevant stakeholders.

REPORTS AND PRESENTATION
Please find the fourth-quarter earnings presentation attached. The reports are also available at:

www.bwenergy.no/investors/reports-and-presentations

BW Energy will today hold a conference call followed by a Q&A hosted by CEO Carl K. Arnet, CFO Brice Morlot and COO Lin G. Espey at 15:00 CET.

You can follow the presentation via webcast with supporting slides, available on:

VIEWER REGISTRATION • Q4 2024

Call-in information:

Participants dial in numbers:

DK: +45 7876 8490
SE: +46 8 1241 0952
NO: +47 2195 6342
UK: +44 203 769 6819
US: +1 646-787-0157
Singapore: 65-3-1591097
France: 33-1-81221259

PIN code: 980877

Please note, that if you follow the webcast via the above URL, you will experience a 30 second delay compared to the main conference call. The web page works best in an updated browser – Chrome is recommended.

BW Energy will publish the audited 2024 annual report, the reserves report and the report on payments to governments on 26 February 2025.

For further information, please contact:
Brice Morlot, CFO BW Energy, +33.7.81.11.41.16
ir@bwenergy.no

About BW Energy:
BW Energy is a growth E&P company with a differentiated strategy targeting proven offshore oil and gas reservoirs through low risk phased developments. The Company has access to existing production facilities to reduce time to first oil and cashflow with lower investments than traditional offshore developments. The Company’s assets are 73.5% of the producing Dussafu Marine licence offshore Gabon, 100% interest in the Golfinho and Camarupim fields, a 76.5% interest in the BM-ES-23 block, a 95% interest in the Maromba field in Brazil, a 95% interest in the Kudu field in Namibia, all operated by BW Energy. In addition, BW Energy holds approximately 6.6% of the common shares in Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. and a 20% non-operating interest in the onshore Petroleum Exploration License 73 (“PEL 73”) in Namibia. Total net 2P+2C reserves and resources were 580 million barrels of oil equivalent at the start of 2024.

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

Attachments
- BWE Q4 2024
- BWE earnings tables Q4 2024
The MIL Network –
January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Need for mission readiness to drive maintenance expenditure on in-service military platforms in Asia-Pacific in 2025, says GlobalData

Source: GlobalData

Need for mission readiness to drive maintenance expenditure on in-service military platforms in Asia-Pacific in 2025, says GlobalData

Posted in Aerospace, Defense & Security

The evolving nature of warfare and threat perceptions in the Asia-Pacific region has increased the demand for robust maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) practices substantially. Disciplined MRO practices ensure higher operational availability rates of military platforms such as fixed-wing aircrafts, helicopters, naval vessels, and land vehicles. Against this backdrop, the cumulative maintenance cost burden of the military platform fleet of Asia-Pacific countries is estimated to be about $44 billion in 2025, reveals GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

GlobalData’s dashboard on Annual Maintenance Cost (part of the Fleet Size database) reveals that, with 28% share of the total addressable market (TAM), the Asia-Pacific region will provide most number of opportunities for maintenance service providers throughout this decade. Within Asia-Pacific, China, India, and Japan are the top three countries with highest maintenance cost burden owing to their large fleet of in-service defense platforms as of January 2025.

Harsh Deshmukh, Aerospace & Defense Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The governments in the Asia-Pacific region have the highest maintenance cost burden on the Military Land Vehicles segment, which is estimated to be about $15 billion for 2025. This cost is further aggravated due to the large inventory of aging Soviet-origin main battle tanks, armored personnel carriers, and tactical trucks. Leading Asia-Pacific companies catering to this market segment include China North Industries Group Corp Ltd (Norinco), Dongfeng Motor Corporation Ltd, Poly Technologies, Armoured Vehicles Nigam Ltd, Tata Advanced Systems Ltd, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd, and LIG NEX1 Co.”

The annual maintenance cost burden on Asia-Pacific’s Military Fixed Wing Aircraft fleets is estimated to be about $13 billion for 2025. As countries in the region try to address the perennial issues related to the low availability rate of their Fixed Wing Aircraft fleet, significant opportunities exist for global primes and subcontractors.

Deshmukh concludes: “Growing tension and territorial disputes across the Asia-Pacific, especially in the South China Sea, will not just drive the countries to procure new defense platforms but will also compel policymakers to pay more attention to the maintenance of their in-service fleet. India, China, and Pakistan have seen several border skirmishes in recent years, which have necessitated the respective governments to increase their spending on maintenance activities. The efforts made towards the improvement of the defense readiness levels by these countries will continue to pave the way for maintenance contracts to both domestic and international companies with relevant product portfolios.”

MIL OSI Economics –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: India startups raise $11.3 billion venture capital funding in 2024, reveals GlobalData

Source: GlobalData

India startups raise $11.3 billion venture capital funding in 2024, reveals GlobalData

Posted in Business Fundamentals

India saw a notable improvement in venture capital (VC) funding activity in 2024 compared to the previous year. While both deal volume and total funding value increased, the growth was particularly significant in terms of value. The number of VC deals rose by 6%, from 1,102 in 2023 to 1,168 in 2024, whereas the total disclosed funding value surged by 43%, from $7.9 billion in 2023 to $11.3 billion in 2024, according to GlobalData a leading data and analytics company.

Aurojyoti Bose, Lead Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The dent in investor sentiment that the market experienced for the past few years seems to have faded, with the renewed appetite for big-ticket deals further underscoring this recovery.”

An analysis of GlobalData’s Deals Database revealed that the average size of VC deals announced in India, which stood at around $7 million in 2023, increased to around $10 million in 2024. Meanwhile, the number of VC deals valued more than or equal to $100 million announced in India increased from 14 to 21.

Some of the notable VC funding deals announced in India during 2024 include $665 million, $350 million, and $340 million secured by Zepto across three separate funding rounds. Other significant deals include Meesho raising $300 million, PharmEasy securing $216 million, and PhysicsWallah receiving $210 million, among others.

Bose adds: “It is noteworthy that driven by the improvement in funding activity, India’s share in the global space has improved.”

India, which accounted for 5.5% of the total number of VC deals announced globally during 2023, accounted for 7.1% share of deal volume in 2024. Meanwhile, India saw its share of the total disclosed funding value increase from 3.3% in 2023 to 4.2% in 2024.

Bose concludes: “India’s strong rebound in VC funding activity reflects growing investor confidence and the market’s resilience. The rise in big-ticket deals and the increase in India’s share of global VC investments highlight the country’s expanding influence in the startup ecosystem. As investor sentiment continues to improve, India seems to be well-positioned to attract further funding and drive innovation across key sectors.”

Note: Historic data may change in case some deals get added to previous months because of a delay in disclosure of information in the public domain.

MIL OSI Economics –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: GlobalData 2025 Cloud Predictions: AI and economics will drive growth and change in IaaS

Source: GlobalData

GlobalData 2025 Cloud Predictions: AI and economics will drive growth and change in IaaS

Posted in Technology

2024 was a good year for hyperscalers and cloud providers who capitalized on their clients’ need for access to more processing and storage due to escalating growth in data volumes. The hyperscalers continued to expand their solution portfolios, creating in some cases almost unfathomably vast catalogues. While some businesses opt to repatriate some workloads to private or on-premise environments for cost and other reasons, the expectation is that Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) expansion will continue in 2025, with AI being a major factor in this expansion, according to a recent advisory report by GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

GlobalData’s report titled “2025 Enterprise Predictions: Cloud Reconsidered,” reveals that cost-containment and new regulations will be important factors in enterprise cloud decision-making in 2025.

Amy Larsen DeCarlo, Principal Analyst, Enterprise Technology and Services at GlobalData, comments: “Even as economic uncertainty looms, the demand for more processing power and storage fuelled in large part by work in GenAI and synthetic AI will keep the hyperscalers and other cloud providers in excellent position in the coming year. Another byproduct of the increase in AI-powered applications will be greater interest in edge computing. Hyperscalers and their partners will both benefit from this.”

Concerns about costs on the part of enterprise and public sector entities will be a major influence on cloud investments this year.

Larsen DeCarlo adds: “The onus is on cloud providers to deliver solutions that help organizations refine their cloud implementations, a fact of which they are keenly aware.

“Organizations will advance their FinOps work internally, engaging individual IT operations teams with lines of business and finance to improve operational results and reduce expenses. The hyperscalers who deliver effective tools to support this work will gain a point of differentiation.”

GlobalData notes that even as organizations invest more in cloud services, regulatory changes will drive them to re-examine their current implementations and make changes in what they deploy to public and private clouds.

Larsen DeCarlo concludes: “Hyperscalers have maintained a focus on developing vertically specific solutions for industries such as finance and healthcare. They will continue to build these out in 2025 while also expanding local infrastructure in regions including the Middle East and Africa as well as Asia.”

MIL OSI Economics –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Academics receive Prince Mahidol Award 2024
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Two scientists from the UK received Thailand’s Prince Mahidol Awards for 2024 for long and significant contribution in the field of Public Health and Medicine.
Today (30 January 2025) two scientists from the UK received Thailand’s Prince Mahidol Awards (PMA) for 2024 for their long and significant contribution in the field of Public Health and Medicine. Dr Jonathan Shepherd, a British surgeon and professor at Cardiff University in Wales, and Dr Tony Hunter (dual US-UK national), a professor of Biology at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, USA have received the award, following on from Professor David Mabey, who received the award in 2019 for his work to eradicate trachoma, the most common infectious cause of blindness worldwide.

The Award Presentation Ceremony was held at Thailand’s Royal Palace. Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, as the representative of His Majesty the King, presided over the Presentation Ceremony, in the company of the Privy Council, Bureau of the Royal Household and Cabinet members.

Dr Shepherd receives the Prince Mahidol Award (PMA) in Public Health for his creation of the ‘Cardiff Model of Violence Prevention’ which is an evidence-based, multisectoral approach to violence prevention which has been endorsed by the World Health Organisation and integrated into multisectoral approaches to violence prevention from South Africa to Australia. Dr Shepherd’s research and commitment to evidence-based public policy has contributed to the development of ‘What Works Network’. The Network, supported by the UK government, acts as an important interface between research and policymaking, ensuring that policy makers have access to the best evidence.

Professor Hunter who studied at the University of Cambridge in the UK, receives the Prince Mahidol Award in Medicine for his discovery of tyrosine kinase enzymes and the phosphorylation process, a crucial mechanism that transforms normal cells into cancerous cells. This breakthrough discovery led to the development of targeted cancer treatments and pharmaceutical innovation that can effectively inhibit cancer cells.

In 2024 the UK and Thailand established a Strategic Partnership, highlighting a shared commitment to advance global health by championing universal access to health care and strengthening partnerships to prevent, detect and respond to global health threats. This includes joint efforts to tackle antimicrobial resistance and infectious disease outbreaks including through the development and application of innovative technology, such as genomics.

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Published 31 January 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Community Funding shines bright throughout the City

Source: Government of Western Australia

The City of Wanneroo’s Community Funding Program has supported a plethora of community-led initiatives.

Disco events for people with disabilities

Intelife Group was one of the stand-out beneficiaries of the City’s community funding for its EasyBeatz events.

Two events were held at the Whale & Ale bar and bistro in Clarkson, with the aim of increasing opportunities for people with disabilities to attend nightlife venues, as well as better educating venue staff.

The City supported the group’s Christmas in July and Halloween themed discos, with the funding covering the venue and DJ hire costs.

The funding also allowed Intelife to create a video aimed at upskilling nightlife venues on how to provide an inclusive service to people with disabilities.

The events provided a place for people with disability to meet in a safe place, enjoy a night out and make friends – with positive feedback proving the value of the events for the community.

APM Community Connections Local Area Coordinator, Jean Van Veen, said the events were so popular, another six were in the works.

“These events, which welcomed people of all abilities, wouldn’t have been possible without the grant received from the City” she said.

“The video will help raise awareness and support other venues across Australia to host similar accessible and inclusive events, ensuring everyone can enjoy these experiences.”

Community Christmas party and support

A Community Christmas Party hosted by No Limits Perth set a new attendance record, highlighting the need for relief initiatives as cost-of-living pressures increase.

Over the past year, organisers have seen event attendance double, with 200 families who were in need of free Christmas hampers joining the 2024 party, which was supported by a $2,205 Community Grant from the City.

“The City’s funding program supported our Community Christmas Party by providing the entertainment, advertising, as well as ambulance services,” No Limits Perth Chairperson and Co-Founder, Janine Wood, said.

“We received feedback from families and single parents who were extremely grateful for the hampers and toys they received for their children and grandchildren at the event.”

No Limits provides support services for people experiencing hardship and homelessness, if you are struggling you can reach out through the No Limits Perth website.

Bilingual workshops

Last year, Multilingual Australia held three workshops at Girrawheen Hub, with a $500 Kickstarter grant from the City.

The “Raising Children in More than One Language” workshops were held to support City of Wanneroo families in fostering bilingual and multi-lingual environments at home.

Thanks to the popularity of the workshops, Multilingual Australia was invited to present at two additional child-care centres to 37 families and community educators.

Tet Trung Thu Full Moon Lantern Festival

Koondoola-based Westnam United Soccer Club saw 350 people join in its 2024 Tet Trung Thu Full Moon Lantern Festival.

The annual Vietnamese community cultural event for children was a hit with attendees who enjoyed lantern making, moon cake tasting and a lantern parade.

Westnam United Soccer Club received a $4,450 Community Grant from the City to host the festival at its home ground, Shelvock Park.

Wanneroo Softball’s ‘Have a Go Day’

In a bid to rejuvenate its player numbers, Wanneroo Softball Club hosted a “Have a Go Day”, targeting new members of the community and shining a light on the social and physical benefits of softball.

The club received a $500 Kickstarter grant from the City to help host the event.

The City’s Funding Program offers a valuable opportunity for groups based in the City of Wanneroo, or with a primary interest in the City, to secure financial support for projects, activities and events.

Visit the Community Funding page for more information or phone the City’s Community Development team on (08) 9405 5600.

MIL OSI News –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Planes have high-tech systems to stop midair crashes. So what went wrong in Washington?

Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Chrystal Zhang, Associate Professor, Aerospace Engineering & Aviation, RMIT University

On Wednesday night US time, a passenger jet and US Army helicopter collided at a low altitude near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, and crashed into the the Potomac River.

A total of 60 passengers – including US and Russian champion figure skaters – and four crew were on board the American Airlines flight AA5342 from Wichita, Kansas. Three military personnel were in the chopper, which was conducting a routine training flight. Authorities say no one on board either aircraft survived.

This crash comes just over a month after a passenger jet crashed in South Korea – possibly as a result of a bird strike – killing all but two of the 181 people on board. The two incidents have focused attention on aviation safety around the world.

In the case of the most recent tragedy in the US, technology exists that is designed to help pilots avoid midair collisions with other aircraft. It is known as the Traffic Collision Avoidance System – or TCAS.

So how does it work? And why might it have failed to prevent disaster in this case?

What is a TCAS?

A TCAS is an aircraft safety system that monitors the airspace around a plane for other aircraft equipped with transponders. These are devices that listen for and respond to incoming electronic signals.

The system – also sometimes referred to as an ACAS (Airborne Collision Avoidance System) – operates independently of an external air traffic control system. Its purpose is to alert pilots immediately to nearby aircraft and potential midair collisions.

Since the technology was developed in 1974, it has undergone a number of advances.

The first generation technology, known as TCAS I, monitors what’s around an aircraft. It provides information on the bearing and altitude of any nearby aircraft. If there is a risk of collision, it generates what’s known as a “Traffic Advisory” – or TA. When a TA is issued, the pilot is notified of the threat, but must themselves determine the best evasive action to take.

The second generation technology, known as TCAS II, goes a step further: it provides a pilot with specific instructions on how to avoid a collision with a nearby aircraft or conflict with traffic, either by descending, climbing, turning or adjusting their speed.

These newer systems are also able to communicate with each other. This ensures the advice given to each aircraft is coordinated.

Any aircraft used for commercial purposes must be equipped with a TCAS in accordance with international regulations under what’s known as the Chicago Convention. There are specific provisions under the convention for noncommercial aircraft.

Military helicopters are not subject to the provisions of the Chicago Convention (although they are subject to domestic laws and regulations). And there are reports the military helicopter did not have a TCAS system on board.

Limitations of TCAS at low altitudes

Regardless of whether the military helicopter involved in the crash was fitted with a TCAS, the technology still has limitations. In particular, it is inhibited at altitudes below roughly 300 metres.

The last recorded altitude of American Airlines flight AA5342 was roughly 90 metres. The last recorded altitude of the US military helicopter that collided with the plane was roughly 60 metres.

It is not an accident that a TCAS is inhibited at low altitudes. In fact, this is part of the design of the technology.

This is primarily because the system relies on radio altimeter data, which measures altitude and becomes less accurate near the ground. This could potentially result in unreliable collision-avoidance instructions.

Another issue is that an aircraft at such a low altitude cannot descend any further to avoid a collision.

The site of several near misses

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is one of the busiest airports in the United States. Commercial, military and private aircraft share very limited airspace and corridors.

It has been the site of several near misses in recent years.

For example, in April 2024, a commercial plane pilot coming into land had to take evasive action to avoid a helicopter that was roughly 100 metres beneath it. In an incident report, the pilot said:

We never received a warning of the traffic from (air traffic control) so we were unaware it was there.

Many people, including Democratic US senator Tim Kaine, pointed to this near miss as evidence of why a plan to allow more flights into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport should not proceed. Despite this, the plan was approved the following month.

All of this will undoubtedly be examined as part of the investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board into this disaster.

Chrystal Zhang 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. Planes have high-tech systems to stop midair crashes. So what went wrong in Washington? – https://theconversation.com/planes-have-high-tech-systems-to-stop-midair-crashes-so-what-went-wrong-in-washington-248744

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

January 31, 2025

MIL-OSI Economics: Result of the Daily Variable Rate Repo (VRR) auction held on January 31, 2025

Source: Reserve Bank of India

Tenor	3-day
Notified Amount (in ₹ crore)	1,00,000
Total amount of bids received (in ₹ crore)	1,28,059
Amount allotted (in ₹ crore)	1,00,013
Cut off Rate (%)	6.51
Weighted Average Rate (%)	6.52
Partial Allotment Percentage of bids received at cut off rate (%)	51.04

Ajit Prasad
Deputy General Manager
(Communications)

Press Release: 2024-2025/2049

MIL OSI Economics –

January 31, 2025

MIL-OSI Banking: Result of Underwriting Auction conducted on January 31, 2025

Source: Reserve Bank of India

In the underwriting auction conducted on January 31, 2025, for Additional Competitive Underwriting (ACU) of the undernoted Government securities, the Reserve Bank of India has set the cut-off rates for underwriting commission payable to Primary Dealers as given below:

Nomenclature of the Security	Notified Amount (₹ crore)	Minimum Underwriting Commitment (MUC) Amount (₹ crore)	Additional Competitive Underwriting Amount Accepted (₹ crore)	Total Amount underwritten (₹ crore)	ACU Commission Cut-off rate (paise per ₹100)
6.79% GS 2031	10,000	5,019	4,981	10,000	0.06
6.79% GOI SGrB 2034	5,000	2,520	2,480	5,000	0.70
7.34% GS 2064	15,000	7,518	7,482	15,000	0.18
Auction for the sale of securities will be held on January 31, 2025.

Ajit Prasad
Deputy General Manager
(Communications)

Press Release: 2024-2025/2048

MIL OSI Global Banks –

January 31, 2025

MIL-OSI China: ‘Ne Zha 2’ designer discusses new characters and creative process

Source: China State Council Information Office 3

Shen Wei, the character designer behind China’s top-grossing animated film “Ne Zha,” recently spoke with China.org.cn about his challenging journey in designing characters for “Ne Zha 2,” following the overwhelming success of the original film in 2019.

Shen Wei, the character designer for the “Ne Zha” series. [Photo courtesy of Coloroom Pictures]

“Ne Zha 2” joined the highly vibrant Spring Festival film season lineup and debuted on Jan. 29. Building on the remarkable success of its predecessor, this five-year project continues to draw inspiration from the mischievous yet endearing character from the Ming dynasty novel (1368-1644) “The Investiture of the Gods.” It also introduces a “dimensional upgrade” that includes new characters, thrilling battle scenes, more than 1,900 visual effect shots, and enhanced details for IMAX.

When discussing the challenges of character design amid high audience expectations after a five-year wait, Shen emphasized the importance of two concepts: continuity and innovation.

“I believe finding the right balance between continuity and innovation is essential,” Shen said. “The audience has already embraced elements of the original, so it’s impossible to completely break away from the established framework. Our approach is to carry forward the essence of the first film into the sequel while innovating and improving on existing techniques.”

“Ne Zha 2” includes a substantial increase in new characters, tripling the number from the first film. A promotional video reveals that nearly every character has received unique battle designs instead of reusing previous designs. Shen noted that this approach demanded considerable effort and time. His goal was to immerse the audience in a story that feels authentic and engaging, ensuring that each character is fully developed and relatable.

Designs for several characters from “Ne Zha 2.” [Image courtesy of Coloroom Pictures]

“I’d like to clarify that while I contributed to many of the characters in the films, such as the soldiers and sea creatures, I did not create them alone. They were created by many team members due to the substantial workload,” Shen explained. “However, we all share the same principle that our character designs must serve the film and its storytelling.”

One new character that impressed Shen is Ao Shun, a legendary dragon king. His complex armor, made entirely of blades, along with his unique fighting style, presented significant development challenges. Shen worked closely with Yang Yu, the creator of the “Ne Zha” film series, known by his nickname Jiaozi, to explore various iterations of the character’s costume and performance style. Despite these challenges, overcoming obstacles in designing Ao Shun made the creative process particularly memorable for Shen.

Shen also shared an intriguing behind-the-scenes story about Jiaozi. “There were times when I might not fully grasp the specific points Jiaozi wanted to convey,” Shen said. “In those cases, he often performed the characters in person or via video calls to help me understand them better. Pure textual descriptions could be difficult to fully comprehend. When you incorporated performance elements – such as actions, expressions, and tone, as Jiaozi did – everything changed.”

In 2019, the first installment grossed over 5 billion yuan ($690 million) in the Chinese market and $726 million worldwide, according to Box Office Mojo. It received a positive response from international audiences. Regarding his expectations for “Ne Zha 2,” Shen expressed hope that the film would convey Eastern culture, aesthetics, and the core spirit of the Chinese nation to global viewers, further promoting cultural heritage worldwide.

A poster for “Ne Zha 2.” [Image courtesy of Coloroom Pictures]

Enlight Media’s Coloroom Pictures has announced that “Ne Zha 2” will open in a wide range of global markets, including North America, Australia, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and South Africa, though specific release dates have yet to be set.

Looking ahead, Shen expressed a strong interest in exploring projects that involve extraterrestrial and futuristic creatures amid the resurgence of Chinese animation. Such themes, he said, “allow me to explore new ideas and unleash my imagination.” He noted that character design is a creatively rich and rewarding process.

“As part of the industry, we look forward to a vibrant landscape where diverse types of animation can be presented, enabling various audiences to discover what they enjoy,” added Shen.

MIL OSI China News –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fireworks showcase ushers in snake

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Scores of people gathered on both sides of Victoria Harbour tonight to watch the Chinese New Year fireworks display to celebrate the Year of the Snake.

The 23-minute show consisted of nine scenes with a total of 23,888 firing shells.

The lucky red number 8 kicked off the show, wishing prosperity and happiness to all.

Red peonies, silver peonies and red hearts bloomed to epitomise how elite talent from all over the world set their sights on Hong Kong and contribute to a greater tomorrow.

In the eighth scene, six adorable panda head images greeted the crowds, while the finale showcased wandering star pattern fireworks, wishing continued prosperity for the nation and peaceful lives for people.

The event was co-ordinated by the Culture, Sports & Tourism Bureau.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 31, 2025

MIL-OSI Economics: Money Market Operations as on January 30, 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)	5,45,691.61	6.56	4.00-6.95
I. Call Money	14,941.07	6.58	5.10-6.65
II. Triparty Repo	3,85,768.80	6.55	6.49-6.75
III. Market Repo	1,43,070.44	6.59	4.00-6.95
IV. Repo in Corporate Bond	1,911.30	6.76	6.75-6.80
B. Term Segment
I. Notice Money**	126.94	6.43	5.90-6.65
II. Term Money^@@	1,141.50	–	6.70-7.50
III. Triparty Repo	1,585.00	6.54	6.50-6.57
IV. Market Repo	2,040.99	6.61	6.60-6.75
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	Thu, 30/01/2025	1	Fri, 31/01/2025	1,17,354.00	6.51
(b) Reverse Repo
3. MSF^#	Thu, 30/01/2025	1	Fri, 31/01/2025	3,099.00	6.75
4. SDF^Δ#	Thu, 30/01/2025	1	Fri, 31/01/2025	69,667.00	6.25
5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*				50,786.00
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. SDF^Δ#
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 (-)]*				2,22,438.71
G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
(i) Cash balances with RBI as on		January 30, 2025		9,18,934.39
(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 30, 2025		1,17,354.00
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: 2024-2025/2047

MIL OSI Economics –

January 31, 2025

MIL-Evening Report: Planes have high-tech systems to stop midair crashes. So what went wrong in Washington?

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Chrystal Zhang, Associate Professor, Aerospace Engineering & Aviation, RMIT University

On Wednesday night US time, a passenger jet and US Army helicopter collided at a low altitude near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, and crashed into the the Potomac River.

A total of 60 passengers – including US and Russian champion figure skaters – and four crew were on board the American Airlines flight AA5342 from Wichita, Kansas. Three military personnel were in the chopper, which was conducting a routine training flight. Authorities say no one on board either aircraft survived.

This crash comes just over a month after a passenger jet crashed in South Korea – possibly as a result of a bird strike – killing all but two of the 181 people on board. The two incidents have focused attention on aviation safety around the world.

In the case of the most recent tragedy in the US, technology exists that is designed to help pilots avoid midair collisions with other aircraft. It is known as the Traffic Collision Avoidance System – or TCAS.

So how does it work? And why might it have failed to prevent disaster in this case?

What is a TCAS?

A TCAS is an aircraft safety system that monitors the airspace around a plane for other aircraft equipped with transponders. These are devices that listen for and respond to incoming electronic signals.

The system – also sometimes referred to as an ACAS (Airborne Collision Avoidance System) – operates independently of an external air traffic control system. Its purpose is to alert pilots immediately to nearby aircraft and potential midair collisions.

Since the technology was developed in 1974, it has undergone a number of advances.

The first generation technology, known as TCAS I, monitors what’s around an aircraft. It provides information on the bearing and altitude of any nearby aircraft. If there is a risk of collision, it generates what’s known as a “Traffic Advisory” – or TA. When a TA is issued, the pilot is notified of the threat, but must themselves determine the best evasive action to take.

The second generation technology, known as TCAS II, goes a step further: it provides a pilot with specific instructions on how to avoid a collision with a nearby aircraft or conflict with traffic, either by descending, climbing, turning or adjusting their speed.

These newer systems are also able to communicate with each other. This ensures the advice given to each aircraft is coordinated.

Any aircraft used for commercial purposes must be equipped with a TCAS in accordance with international regulations under what’s known as the Chicago Convention. There are specific provisions under the convention for noncommercial aircraft.

Military helicopters are not subject to the provisions of the Chicago Convention (although they are subject to domestic laws and regulations). And there are reports the military helicopter did not have a TCAS system on board.

Limitations of TCAS at low altitudes

Regardless of whether the military helicopter involved in the crash was fitted with a TCAS, the technology still has limitations. In particular, it is inhibited at altitudes below roughly 300 metres.

The last recorded altitude of American Airlines flight AA5342 was roughly 90 metres. The last recorded altitude of the US military helicopter that collided with the plane was roughly 60 metres.

It is not an accident that a TCAS is inhibited at low altitudes. In fact, this is part of the design of the technology.

This is primarily because the system relies on radio altimeter data, which measures altitude and becomes less accurate near the ground. This could potentially result in unreliable collision-avoidance instructions.

Another issue is that an aircraft at such a low altitude cannot descend any further to avoid a collision.

The site of several near misses

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is one of the busiest airports in the United States. Commercial, military and private aircraft share very limited airspace and corridors.

It has been the site of several near misses in recent years.

For example, in April 2024, a commercial plane pilot coming into land had to take evasive action to avoid a helicopter that was roughly 100 metres beneath it. In an incident report, the pilot said:

We never received a warning of the traffic from (air traffic control) so we were unaware it was there.

Many people, including Democratic US senator Tim Kaine, pointed to this near miss as evidence of why a plan to allow more flights into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport should not proceed. Despite this, the plan was approved the following month.

All of this will undoubtedly be examined as part of the investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board into this disaster.

Chrystal Zhang 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. Planes have high-tech systems to stop midair crashes. So what went wrong in Washington? – https://theconversation.com/planes-have-high-tech-systems-to-stop-midair-crashes-so-what-went-wrong-in-washington-248744

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Wicker Leads Senate Armed Services Committee in Secretary of the Army Nomination Hearing

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today led his committee colleagues in a hearing examining the nomination of Mr. Daniel P. Driscoll, President Trump’s nominee to serve as the next Secretary of the Army.
In his opening remarks, Chairman Wicker recounted the many challenges facing the United States Army in its effort to modernize and develop new ways of deterring our adversaries.
The Army, Chairman Wicker noted, is failing to realize the full potential of recruitment opportunities. He also noted the Army’s need to refocus on transforming its material readiness to ensure it can properly support conflict in Europe or the Western Pacific. Specifically, Chairman Wicker called for Mr. Driscoll to improve army initiatives on small unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and counter unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS).
“I believe Mr. Driscoll’s record, his Army service, his legal background, and financial experience have prepared him to handle the myriad responsibilities of Army Secretary. If he’s confirmed, Mr. Driscoll will face the challenges I’ve already outlined. He will be handed a budget that has not kept pace with inflation. He’ll also take the helm at a time of increasing danger around the world,” Chairman Wicker said. “…[The Army] must choose to remain relevant in today’s complex threat environment, the Army should accelerate its transformation efforts and focus on new portions of the defense industrial base. It should expand its work on small unmanned aerial systems, or UAS, and counter-UAS.”
Chairman Wicker previously met with Driscoll, commenting that the nominee that “would bring relevant combat experience, a decorated military career, and a proven track record at the highest levels of law and business to keep the Army focused on its mission.”
Read the remarks as delivered below or watch them here.
The hearing will come to order. We thank the witnesses for being here, and those in attendance.
Certainly, all of us are concerned and saddened by the tragedy which occurred near Reagan National Airport last night, and I ask that the committee observe a moment of silence before we begin the hearing.
Thank you very much.
The Committee on Armed Services has convened this hearing to consider the pending nomination of Mr. Dan Driscoll to be the 26th Secretary of the Army. In support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Mr. Driscoll served our country in Iraq, spending four years with the Army. So, we thank him, and the entire Driscoll family: his wife Dr. Cassie Driscoll, and their two children, Daniel and Lila, who could not be with us today, for their willingness to serve this country again, by accepting this new assignment.
After his military service, Mr. Driscoll received his law degree from Yale and has worked in private equity and venture capital, all the while he’s retained many ties to his former service.
The Army faces a complex array of challenges. Recruitment and retention improved last year, but the Army still has more than 10,000 fewer recruits than it did in 2023. Since the beginning of the Biden administration, the service is down 36,000 soldiers. On top of that, the Army is not taking full advantage of opportunities to nurture interest in military service. Almost 300 high schools sit on a waiting list to get their own Army Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps unit. These units mean more than potential individual recruits. They represent communities where the Department of Defense can put down roots, developing the Army of leaders for tomorrow, as well as excellent citizens for our entire society.
As the service catches up on recruitment, it must also ensure that those who do enlist are equipped for the mission. The nature of large-scale combat operations is changing. The world sees this every week in Ukraine. To be ready for potential combat in the Western Pacific, the Army must expedite modernization efforts.
On top of recruitment and modernization projects, the next Secretary of the Army must address the service member quality of life issues that afflict this, the largest service. In the Fiscal Year 2025 budget, the Army increased funding for barracks maintenance problems, but the effects of decades of neglect cannot be fixed overnight. The Army has a facility backlog of more than $100 billion. I offered an amendment which passed the most recent NDAA requiring all of the service to adopt minimum annual facility sustainment levels. My colleagues and I need to see evidence that this change has been embraced within the service.
I believe Mr. Driscoll’s record, his Army service, his legal background, and financial experience have prepared him to handle the myriad responsibilities of Army Secretary. If he’s confirmed, Mr. Driscoll will face the challenges I’ve already outlined.
He will be handed a budget that has not kept pace with inflation. He’ll also take the helm at a time of increasing danger around the world.
The Army is playing a largely quiet but crucial role in the Western Pacific. It is deepening partnerships with our allies and partners in Southeast Asia. Meanwhile, the service is helping us maintain deterrence against the Chinese Communist Party, and it ensures that our South Korean allies are postured to prevent North Korean aggression.
Soldiers from across the United States remain stationed in Europe. Their presence helps deter Russia and helps assure our NATO allies.
In the Middle East, the Army continues to play a lead role in combating Iranian aggression.
Clearly, the Army’s work has been instrumental in these theaters. It must choose to remain relevant in today’s complex threat environment, the Army should accelerate its transformation efforts and focus on new portions of the defense industrial base. It should expand its work on small unmanned aerial systems, or UAS, and counter-UAS. And I say that even as I recognize and appreciate the chief of staff the Army’s focus in this area.
In the Western Pacific theater, the Army’s contribution to sensing and shooting remains in its infancy. The service has the chance to realize its key logistics role for the joint force in contested areas, but it can do so with significant investment and focus.
So, I look forward to this hearing on how Mr. Driscoll will work to change the culture around the issues I have listed, as well as other pressing matters. And I now recognize my friend, the ranking member of the committee, Senator Jack Reed for any opening remarks he may offer.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Hong Kong marks Chinese New Year with dazzling fireworks display

Source: China State Council Information Office 3

As the clock struck eight on Thursday evening, the sky above Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour erupted in a kaleidoscope of colors, marking the arrival of the Chinese New Year.

Fireworks illuminate the sky over Victoria Harbour in celebration of the Spring Festival in Hong Kong, south China, Jan. 30, 2025. (Xinhua/Chen Duo)

This year’s 23-minute fireworks display, a dazzling spectacle of 23,888 pyrotechnic bursts featuring nine scenes, drew over 250,000 residents and tourists to the waterfront, united in celebration of the Year of the Snake.

The annual event, co-organized by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, is a must-see for many Hong Kong residents and tourists.

Addressing the crowd on Thursday night, HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee underscored the significance of the fireworks display as a centerpiece of the Chinese New Year festivities in Hong Kong, noting that each year’s performance features new elements, bringing fresh brilliance to the skies above Victoria Harbour. Much like the agile snake symbolizes flexibility and adaptability, this reflects the spirit of innovation and resilience of the people of Hong Kong.

As dusk settled, the promenade at Tsim Sha Tsui buzzed with anticipation. Families, couples, and international visitors staked out prime viewing spots hours in advance, eager to witness the grand spectacle. From Wan Chai to Causeway Bay, the atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter and the chatter of excited spectators.

The show began with the first scene, titled “A Brand New Beginning,” igniting cheers from the crowd. The scene “Blossoming Prosperity” painted golden ingots in the sky, symbolizing prosperity and abundance. The eighth scene, “Double Luck and Goodness,” featured giant panda images against a backdrop of green lighting representing bamboo and decorative silver illumination. Six adorable “panda head” images representing “An An,” “Ke Ke,” “Ying Ying,” and “Le Le,” along with the newborn twins “Elder Sister” and “Little Brother,” illuminated the sky, signifying reunion and happiness.

The fireworks display reached its climax in the final act, “Harvesting Year of the Snake.” The vibrant scene featured wandering star pattern fireworks dancing against the powerful gongs and drums of the background music “Golden Snake Dance,” wishing continued prosperity for the nation and peaceful lives for the people.

For many, this was more than just a show; it was a moment of collective celebration and hope. Seventy-year-old local resident Mrs. Suen shared her thoughts: “This is one of the most crowded displays I’ve ever seen. The influx of tourists has added to the festive spirit, and it fills us all with optimism for the year ahead.”

Among the visitors was Mr. Xu from Zhejiang, who expressed his awe, saying, “Incredible! Emotional!” He had long heard of Hong Kong’s spectacular celebrations and had planned this trip specifically to experience the fireworks. “This is a highlight of our family trip and is definitely worth it,” he said.

MIL OSI China News –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Victorian Goldfields World Heritage bid celebrates tentative listing
Source: State of Victoria Local Government 2

The Victorian Goldfields has been officially included on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, a promising step on the road to the goldfields receiving World Heritage Listing.

The City of Greater Bendigo, City of Ballarat and 13 other Local Government counterparts involved in the bid are today celebrating the exciting news.

The Tentative List is controlled by the Australian Government. Inclusion on the Tentative List means the Victorian Goldfields is considered a strong candidate to be submitted to UNESCO for World Heritage Listing, which can only be applied for after 12 months on the Tentative List.

Six sites across the region have been included in the Tentative List, with three additional places identified as being subject to further investigation and the possibility other sites may also be added.

Over the next 12 months all possible sites will be assessed in preparation for the Victorian Goldfields bid to be submitted formally to UNESCO in February 2026, with a final outcome likely to be determined after mid-2027.

Getting the Victorian Goldfields on the Tentative List now was critical, as Australia can only make one nomination to UNESCO per year and there are many other places from around Australia that are being considered.

Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said securing a World Heritage Listing was a long process but today’s Tentative Listing announcement represented a significant milestone.

“In 2020, international world heritage expert Barry Gamble confirmed the Victorian Goldfields was the best surviving landscape from the 19th century goldrush anywhere in the world. This validation propelled the efforts of the 15 councils involved to continue our push to celebrate and protect this outstanding example of global significance,” Cr Metcalf said.

“If World Heritage Listing is achieved, it puts the Victorian Goldfields on the same map as the Pyramids of Egypt or the Taj Mahal in India. This would be an incredible achievement for our region, with economic modelling forecasting a Victorian Goldfields World Heritage site could attract 2.5 million new visitors to the region over 10 years, injecting more than $500M into local economies.

“The sites selected for the Tentative List demonstrate outstanding global heritage significance and celebrate the region’s multi-layered history – from the First Peoples living on Country to the goldrush, and subsequent waves of immigration and the contribution made by people who were chasing riches.”

The Victorian Goldfields is currently represented in the Tentative List submission by:
- Castlemaine Goldfields and Historic Townships – pre-eminent alluvial diggings of an early major gold rush in Victoria
- Creswick and the Deep Lead Landscape – unparalleled example of this rare type of gold mining
- Bendigo Historic Urban Landscape – one of the world’s most notable gold rush cities
- Lalgambuk (Mt Franklin) – an area that evidences Aboriginal connection to Country before, during and after the gold rushes
- Great Nuggets Historic Landscape – these diggings yielded the greatest concentration of the largest gold nuggets the world had ever known
- Walhalla Alpine Mining Landscape –steep topography that guided settlement centred on Victoria’s richest gold mine
Other places mentioned in the Tentative List submission for inclusion at the World Heritage nomination stage, which will be developed in 2025/2026, include:
- Ballarat Historic Urban Landscape
- Beechworth Historic Township and Sluicing Landscape
- Whroo and the Balaclava Open Cut Mine
Cr Metcalf said further investigations over the coming 12 months were likely to mean an updated list would make up the final nomination.

“A working group, led by Heritage Victoria and including Traditional Owners and councils involved in the bid, will lead consultation with the communities where each of the sites are located, including with site owners and nearby residents,” she said.

“Tentative Listing should be considered a placeholder only. Sites may change and are all subject to consultation, but the focus will be on confirming a list that ensures the best examples of the lasting legacy of the Victorian Goldfields are celebrated and this critical piece of Australia’s history is conserved and shared with future generations.”

The World Heritage bid is the initiative of a regional partnership made up of 15 councils and the Victorian Goldfields Tourism Executive, led by the City of Greater Bendigo and the City of Ballarat. The Victorian Government announced $2M to progress the Victorian Goldfields World Heritage nomination in 2023.

MIL OSI News –
January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Panasonic Well Venturing into the Future of Family Wellness

Source: Panasonic

Headline: Panasonic Well Venturing into the Future of Family Wellness

Yoky Matsuoka, Executive Officer of Panasonic Holdings Corporation and Panasonic Well Director, took the stage with Yuki Kusumi, Group CEO, during the opening keynote at CES 2025. She announced that Umi, a holistic digital family wellness platform and coach, will be launched in the US as an example of Panasonic Go.*1 We interviewed Yoky about Panasonic Well, the vision to commercializing Umi, and the outlook for the future.
＊1: A global corporate growth initiative promoting business transformation using AI.

Integration of wellness and technologies: Panasonic Well taking up challenges

Panasonic Well, led by Yoky, is a venture and business incubator committed to building new services and technologies that improve the well-being of all people, with a focus on the wellness of modern families. Yoky is an accomplished executive and technologist with over two decades of leadership experience. She is a renowned robotics and neuroscience expert, recognized for her groundbreaking work and honored with the MacArthur Genius Award.
Yoky: Partly due to my past experiences, Panasonic Well tends to be seen as simply a developer of AI or technologies. However, we are able to create solutions at the intersection of responsible tech and human care because we understand what is needed to achieve wellness. This is Panasonic Well’s strength.

Yoky Matsuoka and Panasonic Well staff (at the CES 2025 Panasonic booth)

The first project that Yoky initiated at Panasonic was Yohana, a next-generation family concierge service.
Yoky: During the COVID-19 pandemic, people’s work styles and how they spent time with their family saw drastic changes. At that time, we conducted surveys to get a deeper look at the challenges underlying their problems and did exhaustive research on how we could develop relevant solutions. We launched Yohana in 2021 in the US, then later in Japan, to respond to the time-consuming needs of families by proposing suggestions for meal menus, birthday presents, and so on. The Yohana team, composed of actual humans, has completed over 300,000 tasks on behalf of our customers. This work accumulated to a total of more than one million hours for our customers’ time, which we were able to give back to them. However, we have been unable to provide adequate solutions for using the time created by Yohana to strengthen family ties or improve self-care.
At Panasonic Well, we have continued our research to ensure that AI will be able to resolve challenges facing families in the future. Furthermore, a survey*2 conducted in the US revealed that half of the “sandwich generation”*3 parents, including myself, feel overwhelmed by stress and that 65% feel lonely. This shows that strengthening family ties and self-care are indispensable for the elderly. Consequently, we developed Umi*4 to address these crises in family ｗell-being.
＊2: U.S. Surgeon General Issues Advisory on the Mental Health and Well-Being of Parents (August 2024).＊3: A generation simultaneously supporting aging parents while raising children.＊4: The word “umi” means ocean in Japanese. This name was chosen because it evokes an image of health and well-being, since it not only has a calming effect but also gives people the feeling of vastness and the availability of unlimited resources.

Umi: A new AI partner supporting family wellness

Yoky: Umi will start by providing an app as a family well-being coach that facilitates behavioral changes toward achieving family wellness. By encouraging multi-generation families to cultivate wellness habits that fit their diverse needs and lifestyles, it can be a family partner that supports their health and well-being. Activities & fitness, nutrition, sleep, and stress management are essential for wellness, and among these, the first two have been increasingly attracting attention in recent years. Accordingly, Umi’s AI agent assists in behavioral changes for all family members from their childhood, especially in the areas of activities & fitness and nutrition.

From the video shown during the keynote. Left: Umi suggests ideas for enjoying a weekend, and family members exchange opinions.

Right: Umi explains key points of communication with elderly parents based on advice from experts.

Specifically, using wide-ranging data learned through questions and communications with family members, Umi’s AI sets personalized goals for individuals and suggests necessary actions to meet these goals while considering their feasibility. For example, Umi may propose a monthly target number of steps for a user, but if it learns through conversations that it is not feasible due to the user’s busy schedule, Umi may set another more achievable target for eating more nutritious meals. Since the priorities of activities & fitness and nutrition vary among individuals, it is essential to tailor this process for each family member.
One of Umi’s features enables all family members including children to share conversations, not only 1-to-1 communication. This coordinates family wellness through communication and eventually leads to behavioral change. We delve deeply into the app features like tone of voice and tweak between strong and soft tones to make suggestions best suited for encouraging behavioral changes. Umi also visualizes your progress and enables you to review the outcomes to establish actions as routines.

Panasonic Well: Committed to building a wellness ecosystem

Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan, CEO of AARP

During the keynote, Yoky introduced the Panasonic Well Partner Collective, which consists of leading health and wellness businesses, organizations, and research institutions, as well as a partnership with the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP),*5 an NPO with approximately forty million members in the US. Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan, CEO of AARP, took the stage and emphasized that technology is critical to living a healthy life for an increasing number of older people and their families around the world. Yoky also introduced the Family Wellness Innovation Challenge, a global competition co-sponsored by AARP and Panasonic Well for start-ups who pursue relevant technologies and services, and the prize winners were announced at the end.
＊5: Aiming at improving the quality of life of older people, AARP provides information and support related to health, economic, and social challenges.

Yoky: During the development of Umi, we placed much emphasis on building a business ecosystem.*6 Typical examples are partnerships with companies that provide services as needed or those that give expert advice based on the communications carried out between users and Umi.
＊6: A large economic network of various companies and organizations that collaborate to create greater value.

Group CEO Kusumi joined the award ceremony of the Family Wellness Innovation Challenge and praised the grand prix winner.

The sandwich generation is under a great deal of emotional, time, and economic pressure, and more than half of the families in the US face these burdens.*7 Partnerships are critical for resolving such issues. The Family Wellness Innovation Challenge is a significant step toward expanding such partnerships. We received over 550 applications from around the world, including Japan. I joined the latter half of the screening process myself and interviewed applicants in person. We announced the winners at CES partly to find partners who align with our initiatives, and many participants actually approached us demonstrating their interest. By taking this opportunity, we want to further expand the ecosystem and respond to a wider range of use cases.
＊7: World Economic Forum “More than half of Americans in their 40s are ‘sandwiched’ between an aging parent and their own children” (April 2022).

Daniela Amodei, Co-founder and President of Anthropic

Since collaboration with AI partners is indispensable in promoting Panasonic Go, Group CEO Kusumi announced in his keynote a strategic partnership with Anthropic in the US, a company that shares the Panasonic Group’s belief that AI must be safe, understandable, and designed to deeply align with human values. In response, Yoky stated that Umi will be equipped with Anthropic’s Claude AI assistant. Daniela Amodei, Co-founder and President of Anthropic, joined her and explained that Claude has added value in all aspects of business, from customer service to decision-making, over the years. She expressed her determination to help the Panasonic Group enhance its overall creativity while delivering better business results by leveraging Claude’s high reliability and safety.
Yoky: Anthropic has grown while placing great emphasis on ethics, privacy, and responsibility, and its large language models (LLMs) have gained a high reputation in the US. Umi, committed to supporting the health and well-being for all with wellness as a gateway, cannot be viable without innovations based on Anthropic’s AI ethics. Anthropic AI is particularly excellent at family calendar management and chat promotion, so we will be able to provide a service where Umi discusses the scheduling of hospital visits with users, prepares and manages their schedule with AI, and then even reserves a taxi. We expect further collaboration with a diverse range of partners by expanding the breadth of services in this way.

Umi and Panasonic Well’s future strategy

Yoky: I feel that being able to demonstrate Umi’s capabilities at CES was very meaningful. Umi’s first key vision for the future is to provide a one-stop solution. We hope to develop Umi into a platform that knows all family members well, capable of making good suggestions in response to their wellness consultations without the need to access different sources.

The Umi booth at CES 2025, where many visitors attentively listened to the explanations of booth staff while trying out screen demonstrations

In front of the Partner Collective panel displays. Quite a few representatives of companies expressed their support and consulted with staff of Panasonic Well.

The second vision is to strengthen the ecosystem by expanding our network of partnerships. We will select partners based on their attitudes toward AI ethics and customer needs. We hope that more companies and organizations will participate in the Umi ecosystem in the future, even if their various services overlap. We believe that optimal solutions for problems and concerns can be provided to more customers only when Umi is backed up by a diverse range of partners.
Umi will launch services from the US while aiming to establish a global ecosystem to ensure deployment in other countries and regions. The Panasonic Group is unrivaled in its touchpoints with customers in households and it is important to leverage this advantage. We, as the provider of Umi, look forward to collaborating closely with the business divisions to identify mutually beneficial approaches to solve our customer pain points.

While Panasonic Well is a company capable of making customers around the world healthy and happy through wellness solutions, we want to be the forerunner that will lead Panasonic Go, an initiative to promote corporate transformation of Panasonic. We will pioneer the creation of new products and businesses by leveraging AI and other advanced technologies. We will also establish AI platforms in collaboration with partners and our operating companies.
Furthermore, we are conscious of our contributions to the AI-based transformation of the entire Panasonic Group. In addition to promoting teamwork with departments in charge of AI at Panasonic Holdings and other organizations, we will provide inspiration and lead initiatives to encourage every Panasonic Group employee to embrace AI, unleashing tremendous progress in their tasks and in the products and services they develop.

Panasonic Go aims to expand AI-driven hardware, software, and solutions businesses to approximately 30% of the Panasonic Group’s revenue by 2035. However, the Panasonic Group won’t be able to meet the goal only through the efforts of Panasonic Well and Blue Yonder. All business divisions and departments across the Panasonic Group need to create AI-driven revenue streams. We at Panasonic Well hope to contribute to the attainment of our goal by implementing the approaches I’ve described. If we succeed in meeting our goal, the day may come when the entire Panasonic Group is regarded as a leader in AI technologies.

Under Yoky’s leadership, Panasonic Well will continue to provide innovative solutions driven by AI and other advanced technologies, thus contributing to family wellness. It will also promote AI use throughout the Panasonic Group’s businesses and work at the forefront of Panasonic Go.

The content in this website is accurate at the time of publication but may be subject to change without notice.Please note therefore that these documents may not always contain the most up-to-date information.Please note that German, French and Chinese versions are machine translations, so the quality and accuracy may vary.

MIL OSI Economics –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Optimizing Health Financing: Digital Solutions Against Health Care Inefficiencies, Waste, Abuse, and Fraud

Source: Asia Development Bank

Addressing fraud, waste, and abuse (FWA) remains a significant challenge of maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of health care systems. This report explores the complexities of identifying and managing FWA within health systems, drawing on extensive quantitative and qualitative research conducted from April 2023 to March 2024. The findings highlight the necessity of robust government actions, advanced analytics, and innovative technology to detect and manage FWA effectively.

MIL OSI Economics –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Monitoring Business Cycle Fluctuations in Asia

Source: Asia Development Bank

The paper explains how the index can monitor monthly business cycles in Asian economies using updated economic indicators across six categories: consumption, investment, trade, government, financial, and external sectors. It shows that machine learning algorithms accurately track output gap movements, offering a robust tool for monitoring economic fluctuations.

MIL OSI Economics –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: More than 5000 Australian victims receive text warning over romance scam
Source: Australian Competition and Consumer Commission

This is a joint media release between the AFP, National Anti-Scam Centre, Philippines Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission and National Bureau of Investigation

Editor’s note: Text message screenshot, images from investigation, and audio grabs from AFP Commander Graeme Marshall are available via Hightail

Authorities have texted more than 5000 potential victims in Australia to warn they may have been targeted by romance scammers based in the Philippines.

The National Anti-Scam Centre (NASC), in partnership with the AFP-led Joint Policing Cybercrime Collaboration Centre (JPC3), has today texted potential victims, who are mostly male, urging them not to send money to people they’ve met online and outlined next steps to take if they have already sent money to the scammers.

The potential victims were identified following an investigation by Philippines authorities into a scam compound operating in central Manila, in November 2024.

More than 300 computer towers, 1000 mobile phones, and thousands of SIM cards were located by Philippines authorities and evidence gathered during the investigation has been shared with international law enforcement partners to help identify potential victims, including those who may not be aware they have been targeted.

Under Operation Firestorm, the JPC3 identified more than 5000 Australian-based phone numbers linked to messages found on an end-to-end encryption platform on the devices.

Operation Firestorm is a global operation launched by the JPC3 in August 2024, to address and disrupt offshore organised crime networks deceiving Australians through romance, cryptocurrency and investment scams.

The significant amount of technology located during the operation required extensive analysis, and JPC3 technical and cryptocurrency experts spent hundreds of hours extracting crucial evidence.

It is alleged the scammers, using popular online dating apps, tricked victims into a fake online romantic relationship, before convincing them to purchase legitimate cryptocurrency. They would request a minimum first investment between AUD $300 – $800 dollars, before encouraging the victim to invest more money.

The suspected scammer would then deceive the victim into transferring funds from the legitimate crypto exchange account into the scammer’s account.

Most of the Australian victims targeted were men over 35. The fraudsters posed as either a Filipino female working in Australia or a local female resident in the Philippines.

The investigation has so far resulted in the arrest of more than 250 suspects by Philippine law enforcement authorities.

AFP Commander Cybercrime Operations Graeme Marshall said the investigation highlighted the importance of international partnerships in disrupting serious organised cybercrime networks while supporting victims.

“The AFP worked closely with our partners, the National Anti-Scam Centre and Philippines Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission and the National Bureau of Investigation, to ensure Australians targeted by this malicious scam were identified and given advice to help protect themselves online,” AFP Cmdr Marshall said.

“We urge anyone who received a text message warning from the National Anti-Scam Centre to take it very seriously and refrain from sending money to people you’ve met online.

“If you have already sent someone money or cryptocurrency, please report it to your bank immediately, then to police via ReportCyber. To help others avoid similar scams, you can also report it to ScamWatch.

“When it comes to romance scams, our message to the public is simple: protect your heart and your wallet. If it feels too good to be true, it probably is.

“There are many warning signs someone you’ve met online could be trying to scam you. In this case, the scammer would ask to move the conversation from an online dating app to an end-to-end encryption messaging platform.

“Cybercriminals commonly use this technique to protect themselves from being reported and removed from online dating or social media platforms.

“We urge the public to familiarise themselves with the warning signs of romance scams to help protect themselves, loved ones, friends and family when interacting with people online.”

Australian Competition & Consumer Commission Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe said in 2024, Australians reported losing $23.6 million to dating and romance scams.

“Romance scammers prey on people seeking connection. Criminals build trust over time and often abuse this trust by encouraging people to make large investments leaving victims with significant financial losses and emotional distress,” Ms Lowe said.

“We encourage people to always independently verify any investment opportunity via trusted sources such as an Australian registered financial advisor.”

How to stop, check and protect yourself from romance scams
- Never send money or cryptocurrency to anyone you’ve met online. Be sceptical of any requests for money, no matter how genuine the story may seem.
- Verify the person’s identity. Take things slow and be wary if their story doesn’t add up or if they refuse to video chat or meet in person. Conduct reverse image searches on their profile pictures at https://images.google.com.
- Beware of overly affectionate behaviour. If someone you’ve just met online starts professing love quickly, it’s a red flag.
- Be careful of what you share. Never disclose personal information or send intimate photos to people you don’t know as this may be used to blackmail you or steal your identity.
What to do if you’re a victim of a scam
- Stop all communication with the scammer
- Take screenshots of conversations and profiles before blocking the scammer on all platforms.
- Contact your bank if you have transferred money or suspect unusual account activity.
- Report it to police at www.cyber.gov.au.
- Report suspected scams to www.scamwatch.gov.au to help others avoid similar scams.
- If you were contacted via social media, report it to the social media platform.
- Use strong, unique passphrases on your accounts and enable Multi-Factor Authentication wherever possible.
- If you are concerned your identity has been compromised, contact the national identity and cyber support service, IDCARE, at www.idcare.org.
- If you, or someone you know needs help, we encourage you to contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636, who provide 24/7 support services.
The JPC3 brings together Australian law enforcement and key industry and international partners to fight cybercrime and prevent harm and financial loss to the Australian community.

We are committed to equipping all Australians with the knowledge and resources to protect themselves against cybercrime.

Watch our cybercrime prevention videos and protect yourself against being a victim.

If there is an immediate threat to life or risk of harm, call 000.

Media enquiries:
AFP Media: (02) 5126 9297

MIL OSI News –
January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Sipekne’katik — Missing person: Help the RCMP find Jerome Patrick Paul

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Sipekne’katik RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 48-year-old Jerome Patrick Paul who was last seen in Sipekne’katik (Indian Brook).

Paul is described as 5-foot-8 and 200 pounds. He has short dark brown hair, brown eyes and is known to wear glasses. Paul is believed to be wearing a sweatshirt and sweatpants.

At this time, investigators believe that Paul may be driving a dark blue Chevrolet cargo van with the rear passenger window smashed out.

When someone goes missing, it has deep and far-reaching impacts for the person and those who know them. We ask that people spread the word through social media respectfully.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Jerome Patrick Paul is asked to contact the Indian Brook RCMP detachment at 902-758-3388. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

File #: 2025-136698

MIL Security OSI –

January 31, 2025

Category: Asia

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