NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Illegal trafficking of pesticides – E-001736/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU Agri-Food Fraud Network (FFN)[1] works with law enforcement through the European Multidisciplinary Platform Against Criminal Threats (EMPACT), guided by the EU Serious and Organised Crime Threat Assessment Report.

    EMPACT connects Member States, EU bodies, and international partners to combat serious organised crime. For illegal pesticides, the FFN co-leads with Europol the Operational Action Plan ‘Environmental Crime’ and supports Europol’s Operation SILVER AXE, targeting intellectual property rights protected non-compliant products.

    Participants share related information via the Secure Information Exchange Network Application (SIENA), for secure exchange. The FFN contributes by data sharing, statistical analysis, and trend evaluation.

    The Commission audits Member States to assess controls on marketing and use of plant protection products, including detecting fraud.

    The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) actively detects dangerous goods, as pesticides, and works closely with customs authorities to support cross- border investigations. OLAF has coordinated a joint customs operation on dangerous substances, including pesticides, in the context of the Asia-Europe Meeting[2].

    Moreover, OLAF provided support and specialised intelligence for operations leading to the interception of a significant consignments of illegal pesticides in Bulgaria and Romania[3][4].

    The Commission works with partner countries at the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development fighting illegal trade in pesticides and remains committed mitigating negative impacts of illegal pesticides on environment, thus ensuring the protection of European consumers .

    • [1] https://food.ec.europa.eu/safety/agri-food-fraud/eu-food-fraud-network_en.
    • [2] https://anti-fraud.ec.europa.eu/media-corner/news/operation-noxia-olaf-leads-operation-against-dangerous-substances-2023-10-16_en.
    • [3] https://anti-fraud.ec.europa.eu/media-corner/news/11-tonnes-pesticides-seized-thanks-olaf-and-bulgarian-authorities-2023-03-31_en.
    • [4] https://anti-fraud.ec.europa.eu/media-corner/news/romanian-authorities-seize-1000-litres-counterfeit-pesticides-valued-over-eu600-000-thanks-olafs-2024-10-03_en.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – New Houthi attack on Greek-owned ship in the Red Sea – E-002777/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002777/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Elissavet Vozemberg-Vrionidi (PPE)

    Houthi rebels launched a fierce attack on a Greek-owned merchant ship bound for Jeddah, which was sailing in the Red Sea, approximately 50 nautical miles west of the Yemeni capital, which is under Houthi control. The attack resulted in the death of one crew member and the serious injury of two others, while causing serious damage. This is the second attack in 24 hours in the Red Sea, as it was preceded – on Sunday 6 July – by a Houthi attack on a Greek-owned merchant ship, which the rebels later announced had sunk. The attack put an end to six months of calm in the Red Sea, one of the busiest shipping lanes, where Houthi attacks had disrupted shipping between Europe and Asia.

    Given the worrying international geopolitical situation in the Middle East, as well as the urgent need to ensure safe navigation for European ships:

    • 1.What measures does the Commission intend to put in place for the immediate protection of European and Greek-owned merchant ships sailing in the Red Sea, following the recent attacks by Houthi rebels, and to prevent similar attacks in the future?
    • 2.Will the Commission encourage action at international level, in particular under the auspices of the International Maritime Organisation, to strengthen international cooperation in the fight against maritime piracy?

    Submitted: 8.7.2025

    Last updated: 14 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Incoming female passenger convicted and jailed for possessing duty-not-paid cigarettes (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    A female incoming passenger was sentenced to four weeks’ imprisonment at the Fanling Magistrates’ Courts today (July 14) for possessing duty-not-paid cigarettes and failing to declare them to Customs officers, in contravention of the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance (DCO).

    Customs officers intercepted the incoming 68-year-old female passenger at the Lo Wu Control Point on July 12 and seized 5 220 duty-not-paid cigarettes with an estimated market value of about $21,000 and a duty potential of about $17,000 from her personal baggage. She was subsequently arrested.

    Customs welcomes the sentence, noting that even a first-time offender may still be imprisoned. The custodial sentence has imposed a considerable deterrent effect and reflects the seriousness of the offences. Members of the public should not defy the law. Under the DCO, tobacco products are dutiable goods to which the DCO applies. Any person who deals with, possesses, sells or buys illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.

    Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Incoming female passenger convicted and jailed for possessing duty-not-paid cigarettes (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    A female incoming passenger was sentenced to four weeks’ imprisonment at the Fanling Magistrates’ Courts today (July 14) for possessing duty-not-paid cigarettes and failing to declare them to Customs officers, in contravention of the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance (DCO).

    Customs officers intercepted the incoming 68-year-old female passenger at the Lo Wu Control Point on July 12 and seized 5 220 duty-not-paid cigarettes with an estimated market value of about $21,000 and a duty potential of about $17,000 from her personal baggage. She was subsequently arrested.

    Customs welcomes the sentence, noting that even a first-time offender may still be imprisoned. The custodial sentence has imposed a considerable deterrent effect and reflects the seriousness of the offences. Members of the public should not defy the law. Under the DCO, tobacco products are dutiable goods to which the DCO applies. Any person who deals with, possesses, sells or buys illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.

    Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Incoming passenger convicted and jailed for possessing duty-not-paid cigarettes and importing alternative smoking products (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    ​An incoming male passenger was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment with a fine at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts today (July 14) for possessing duty-not-paid cigarettes and failing to declare them to Customs officers, as well as for importing alternative smoking products, in contravention of the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance (DCO) and the Import and Export Ordinance (IEO).

    Customs officers intercepted the incoming male passenger, aged 22, at Hong Kong International Airport on March 14. About 16 800 duty-not-paid cigarettes and about 8 200 alternative smoking products, with an estimated market value of about $94,000 and a duty potential of about $56,000 in total, were seized from his personal baggage. He was subsequently arrested.

    Customs welcomes the sentence. The custodial sentence has imposed a considerable deterrent effect and reflects the seriousness of the offences.

    Under the DCO, tobacco products are dutiable goods to which the DCO applies. Any person who imports, deals with, possesses, sells or buys illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.

    Under the IEO, any person who imports an alternative smoking product into Hong Kong commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.

    Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SHYA begins visit to Beijing (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         Leading a delegation, the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak, commenced her visit to Beijing today (July 14). In addition to leading a delegation and attending the inauguration ceremony of the Hong Kong-Macao Youth Internship Programme at Palace Museum, Miss Mak called on the All-China Women’s Federation (ACWF) and the All-China Youth Federation (ACYF), to introduce family, women and youth development work in Hong Kong, with a view to deepening exchanges and collaboration with the Mainland on the related areas.
     
    Miss Mak met with the Vice-President of the ACWF, Ms Lin Yi, to exchange views on promoting the healthy development of women and families on the Mainland and in Hong Kong. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action at the United Nations’ Fourth World Conference on Women. On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the World Conference on Women, the country will host the Global Summit of Women again in Beijing in the second half of the year, to discuss plans for advancing global women’s career development with the international community. Miss Mak said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) will participate in the summit. The exchange session today allowed the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB) to gain a better understanding of the country’s work on women’s issues, draw on the experiences of women’s organisations on the Mainland, and promote women’s development in Hong Kong.
     
    Miss Mak then called on the Vice President of ACYF, Mr Hu Baijing. She thanked the ACYF for its staunch support for the youth development work of the HKSAR Government, nurturing future leaders who are characterised by patriotism with affection for the country and Hong Kong. With the support of the Central Government, the ACYF implemented various measures to benefit young people in Hong Kong, including providing numerous internship opportunities for Hong Kong youth every year through the youth federations in various Mainland provinces and cities. The ACYF also provided assistance and support to Hong Kong non-governmental organisations in organising internship projects on the Mainland, and enriching Hong Kong youth’s knowledge of the nation through visits and exchanges in different parts of the country. Miss Mak said that the HKSAR Government will continue to communicate and co-operate with the ACYF to deliver its best efforts on Hong Kong youth matters.
     
    In the afternoon, Miss Mak officiated at the inauguration ceremony of the Hong Kong-Macao Youth Internship Programme at Palace Museum at the said museum. The HYAB Thematic Youth Internship Programmes to the Mainland organises a total of six internship programmes to provide Hong Kong youth with diverse, unique and in-depth thematic internship opportunities, including the Hong Kong-Macao Youth Internship Programme at Palace Museum co-organised with the Palace Museum in Beijing.
     
    Miss Mak expressed gratitude to the Palace Museum for its support to the youth development work of the HKSAR Government over the years. Speaking at the ceremony, she said that this year’s internship programme is of special significance as the Palace Museum celebrates its 100th anniversary. The programme enables Hong Kong youth to acquire professional knowledge in various fields including the conservation of cultural properties, exhibition planning as well as publicity and promotions, providing them with a platform for Chinese cultural exchanges. During the meeting with the interns, Miss Mak encouraged them to humbly learn from the instructors and apply their knowledge in the future to help Hong Kong further establish itself as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchanges.
     
    The delegation to Beijing includes the Permanent Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Ms Shirley Lam; the Director of Home Affairs, Ms Priscilla To; and the Deputy Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs (Home Affairs), Mr Paul Wong. Miss Mak and the delegation will continue their visit to Beijing tomorrow (July 15).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SHYA begins visit to Beijing (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         Leading a delegation, the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak, commenced her visit to Beijing today (July 14). In addition to leading a delegation and attending the inauguration ceremony of the Hong Kong-Macao Youth Internship Programme at Palace Museum, Miss Mak called on the All-China Women’s Federation (ACWF) and the All-China Youth Federation (ACYF), to introduce family, women and youth development work in Hong Kong, with a view to deepening exchanges and collaboration with the Mainland on the related areas.
     
    Miss Mak met with the Vice-President of the ACWF, Ms Lin Yi, to exchange views on promoting the healthy development of women and families on the Mainland and in Hong Kong. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action at the United Nations’ Fourth World Conference on Women. On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the World Conference on Women, the country will host the Global Summit of Women again in Beijing in the second half of the year, to discuss plans for advancing global women’s career development with the international community. Miss Mak said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) will participate in the summit. The exchange session today allowed the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB) to gain a better understanding of the country’s work on women’s issues, draw on the experiences of women’s organisations on the Mainland, and promote women’s development in Hong Kong.
     
    Miss Mak then called on the Vice President of ACYF, Mr Hu Baijing. She thanked the ACYF for its staunch support for the youth development work of the HKSAR Government, nurturing future leaders who are characterised by patriotism with affection for the country and Hong Kong. With the support of the Central Government, the ACYF implemented various measures to benefit young people in Hong Kong, including providing numerous internship opportunities for Hong Kong youth every year through the youth federations in various Mainland provinces and cities. The ACYF also provided assistance and support to Hong Kong non-governmental organisations in organising internship projects on the Mainland, and enriching Hong Kong youth’s knowledge of the nation through visits and exchanges in different parts of the country. Miss Mak said that the HKSAR Government will continue to communicate and co-operate with the ACYF to deliver its best efforts on Hong Kong youth matters.
     
    In the afternoon, Miss Mak officiated at the inauguration ceremony of the Hong Kong-Macao Youth Internship Programme at Palace Museum at the said museum. The HYAB Thematic Youth Internship Programmes to the Mainland organises a total of six internship programmes to provide Hong Kong youth with diverse, unique and in-depth thematic internship opportunities, including the Hong Kong-Macao Youth Internship Programme at Palace Museum co-organised with the Palace Museum in Beijing.
     
    Miss Mak expressed gratitude to the Palace Museum for its support to the youth development work of the HKSAR Government over the years. Speaking at the ceremony, she said that this year’s internship programme is of special significance as the Palace Museum celebrates its 100th anniversary. The programme enables Hong Kong youth to acquire professional knowledge in various fields including the conservation of cultural properties, exhibition planning as well as publicity and promotions, providing them with a platform for Chinese cultural exchanges. During the meeting with the interns, Miss Mak encouraged them to humbly learn from the instructors and apply their knowledge in the future to help Hong Kong further establish itself as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchanges.
     
    The delegation to Beijing includes the Permanent Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Ms Shirley Lam; the Director of Home Affairs, Ms Priscilla To; and the Deputy Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs (Home Affairs), Mr Paul Wong. Miss Mak and the delegation will continue their visit to Beijing tomorrow (July 15).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SHYA begins visit to Beijing (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         Leading a delegation, the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak, commenced her visit to Beijing today (July 14). In addition to leading a delegation and attending the inauguration ceremony of the Hong Kong-Macao Youth Internship Programme at Palace Museum, Miss Mak called on the All-China Women’s Federation (ACWF) and the All-China Youth Federation (ACYF), to introduce family, women and youth development work in Hong Kong, with a view to deepening exchanges and collaboration with the Mainland on the related areas.
     
    Miss Mak met with the Vice-President of the ACWF, Ms Lin Yi, to exchange views on promoting the healthy development of women and families on the Mainland and in Hong Kong. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action at the United Nations’ Fourth World Conference on Women. On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the World Conference on Women, the country will host the Global Summit of Women again in Beijing in the second half of the year, to discuss plans for advancing global women’s career development with the international community. Miss Mak said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) will participate in the summit. The exchange session today allowed the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB) to gain a better understanding of the country’s work on women’s issues, draw on the experiences of women’s organisations on the Mainland, and promote women’s development in Hong Kong.
     
    Miss Mak then called on the Vice President of ACYF, Mr Hu Baijing. She thanked the ACYF for its staunch support for the youth development work of the HKSAR Government, nurturing future leaders who are characterised by patriotism with affection for the country and Hong Kong. With the support of the Central Government, the ACYF implemented various measures to benefit young people in Hong Kong, including providing numerous internship opportunities for Hong Kong youth every year through the youth federations in various Mainland provinces and cities. The ACYF also provided assistance and support to Hong Kong non-governmental organisations in organising internship projects on the Mainland, and enriching Hong Kong youth’s knowledge of the nation through visits and exchanges in different parts of the country. Miss Mak said that the HKSAR Government will continue to communicate and co-operate with the ACYF to deliver its best efforts on Hong Kong youth matters.
     
    In the afternoon, Miss Mak officiated at the inauguration ceremony of the Hong Kong-Macao Youth Internship Programme at Palace Museum at the said museum. The HYAB Thematic Youth Internship Programmes to the Mainland organises a total of six internship programmes to provide Hong Kong youth with diverse, unique and in-depth thematic internship opportunities, including the Hong Kong-Macao Youth Internship Programme at Palace Museum co-organised with the Palace Museum in Beijing.
     
    Miss Mak expressed gratitude to the Palace Museum for its support to the youth development work of the HKSAR Government over the years. Speaking at the ceremony, she said that this year’s internship programme is of special significance as the Palace Museum celebrates its 100th anniversary. The programme enables Hong Kong youth to acquire professional knowledge in various fields including the conservation of cultural properties, exhibition planning as well as publicity and promotions, providing them with a platform for Chinese cultural exchanges. During the meeting with the interns, Miss Mak encouraged them to humbly learn from the instructors and apply their knowledge in the future to help Hong Kong further establish itself as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchanges.
     
    The delegation to Beijing includes the Permanent Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Ms Shirley Lam; the Director of Home Affairs, Ms Priscilla To; and the Deputy Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs (Home Affairs), Mr Paul Wong. Miss Mak and the delegation will continue their visit to Beijing tomorrow (July 15).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SHYA begins visit to Beijing (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         Leading a delegation, the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak, commenced her visit to Beijing today (July 14). In addition to leading a delegation and attending the inauguration ceremony of the Hong Kong-Macao Youth Internship Programme at Palace Museum, Miss Mak called on the All-China Women’s Federation (ACWF) and the All-China Youth Federation (ACYF), to introduce family, women and youth development work in Hong Kong, with a view to deepening exchanges and collaboration with the Mainland on the related areas.
     
    Miss Mak met with the Vice-President of the ACWF, Ms Lin Yi, to exchange views on promoting the healthy development of women and families on the Mainland and in Hong Kong. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action at the United Nations’ Fourth World Conference on Women. On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the World Conference on Women, the country will host the Global Summit of Women again in Beijing in the second half of the year, to discuss plans for advancing global women’s career development with the international community. Miss Mak said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) will participate in the summit. The exchange session today allowed the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB) to gain a better understanding of the country’s work on women’s issues, draw on the experiences of women’s organisations on the Mainland, and promote women’s development in Hong Kong.
     
    Miss Mak then called on the Vice President of ACYF, Mr Hu Baijing. She thanked the ACYF for its staunch support for the youth development work of the HKSAR Government, nurturing future leaders who are characterised by patriotism with affection for the country and Hong Kong. With the support of the Central Government, the ACYF implemented various measures to benefit young people in Hong Kong, including providing numerous internship opportunities for Hong Kong youth every year through the youth federations in various Mainland provinces and cities. The ACYF also provided assistance and support to Hong Kong non-governmental organisations in organising internship projects on the Mainland, and enriching Hong Kong youth’s knowledge of the nation through visits and exchanges in different parts of the country. Miss Mak said that the HKSAR Government will continue to communicate and co-operate with the ACYF to deliver its best efforts on Hong Kong youth matters.
     
    In the afternoon, Miss Mak officiated at the inauguration ceremony of the Hong Kong-Macao Youth Internship Programme at Palace Museum at the said museum. The HYAB Thematic Youth Internship Programmes to the Mainland organises a total of six internship programmes to provide Hong Kong youth with diverse, unique and in-depth thematic internship opportunities, including the Hong Kong-Macao Youth Internship Programme at Palace Museum co-organised with the Palace Museum in Beijing.
     
    Miss Mak expressed gratitude to the Palace Museum for its support to the youth development work of the HKSAR Government over the years. Speaking at the ceremony, she said that this year’s internship programme is of special significance as the Palace Museum celebrates its 100th anniversary. The programme enables Hong Kong youth to acquire professional knowledge in various fields including the conservation of cultural properties, exhibition planning as well as publicity and promotions, providing them with a platform for Chinese cultural exchanges. During the meeting with the interns, Miss Mak encouraged them to humbly learn from the instructors and apply their knowledge in the future to help Hong Kong further establish itself as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchanges.
     
    The delegation to Beijing includes the Permanent Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Ms Shirley Lam; the Director of Home Affairs, Ms Priscilla To; and the Deputy Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs (Home Affairs), Mr Paul Wong. Miss Mak and the delegation will continue their visit to Beijing tomorrow (July 15).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by FS at reception in celebration of 2025 Bastille Day (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at the reception in celebration of 2025 Bastille Day today (July 14):

    Consul General Christile Drulhe (Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau), Deputy Commissioner Li Yongsheng (Deputy Commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, 

    Bon soir. Good evening. 

    It’s a great pleasure to be here with you, tonight, in honour of Bastille Day, a day of surpassing joy throughout France, and one that resonates far beyond its borders, including right here in Hong Kong. 

    Tonight is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the strong and deepening ties between France and Hong Kong. They are thriving, and in so many promising ways.

    France remains one of Hong Kong’s most important trading partners in the European Union, with our bilateral trade in goods reaching around EUR9 billion last year. And Hong Kong, I must say, is a passionate admirer of French products. French elegance is quite literally everywhere in this city, especially when you count the handbags carried and the fashion worn by men and women in this city.

    And of course, our enduring love for Bordeaux and Burgundy wines, champagnes and, increasingly, fine French liquors and spirits, continues to flourish, as the Consul General rightly mentioned earlier.

    We are also seeing a growing interest from French companies and professionals in the opportunities here in Hong Kong. Last year, around 350 French companies operated here, spanning a wide range of industries. French technologies and expertise have long contributed to Hong Kong’s development in such areas as smart mobility, energy efficiency, construction engineering and waste management. 

    I believe more are on the way. Notably, a global leader in aeronautical services from France will establish facilities in Hong Kong for aircraft dismantling, parts recycling, and manpower training. This investment aligns with our vision of becoming a regional hub for aircraft parts processing and trading. The company also has plans to set up ancillary operations in Zhuhai. It shows how we are joining hands to bring French industrial excellence into the Greater Bay Area. 

    In the innovation and technology sector, France ranks among the top three international sources of start-up founders in Hong Kong. It not only reflects French entrepreneurial spirit, but also the vast potential of our tech co-operation.

    And I’m pleased to note that in the first half of this year alone, over 74 000 French visitors came to Hong Kong, a 9 per cent year-on-year increase. We hope many more will follow.

    Looking ahead, I am confident that the relationship between Hong Kong and France will continue to grow from strength to strength, especially in the broader context of the ever-deepening China-France relationship.

    Last year, our country became the largest Asian investor in France, and Hong Kong continues to be a vital conduit for Mainland investments into Europe, and as a springboard for Mainland companies expanding into the continent. At the same time, we remain the gateway of choice for French and European enterprises seeking opportunities in China and across Asia.

    That role is more important than ever today. In a world beset with uncertainty – geopolitical risks, tariff chaos, and the rise of protectionism and unilateralism – we stand to support and benefit from stronger co-operation between China and France, and between Asia and Europe.

    Hong Kong stands as a steadfast “super connector”, a reassuring beacon of free and open trade, a champion of cross-border investment, and an international city of stability, diversity and opportunity.

    This is evident in our financial markets. Last year, the Hong Kong stock market recorded an 18 per cent gain, and has grown by another 20 per cent so far this year. This year, we raised around EUR14 billion through IPOs so far, putting us the leading IPO market in the world. International investors, including European ones, are playing key roles as cornerstone participants. And since last September, waves of capital from the US and Europe flowed into our markets, as global investors recognised that they might have under-weighted their allocations to the Greater China region, particularly in the technology and green energy sectors. 

    In short, the world, and its capital, has turned to Hong Kong as a safe, welcoming and reliable haven.

    More and more, the international community are rediscovering the strengths of Hong Kong’s “one country, two systems” framework. A cornerstone of it is our unwavering commitment to the rule of law, underpinned by the common law system and a judiciary exercising powers independently. Over the past few years, the restoration of stability as well as law and order has not only safeguarded the rights and freedoms of our people, but also reinforced Hong Kong’s appeal as a safe and world-class business destination.

    This is reflected in our rising position in various international competitiveness rankings and positive feedback we continue to receive from foreign businesses operating here.

    Ladies and gentlemen, as the Consul General noted earlier, there is so much more that Hong Kong and France can do together – in technology, housing, education, arts and culture, and in celebrating the many pleasures of life. I look forward to more exchanges and deeper collaboration between our two communities.

    And that should include a visit by the Champions League winners, or better yet, Les Bleus, to our world-class Kai Tak Stadium. 

    Let us continue to build lasting bonds between Hong Kong and France, France and Hong Kong.

    Merci beaucoup. Thank you very much.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Death on arrival case in Yuen Long reclassified as murder

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Police reclassified a death on arrival case happened in Yuen Long yesterday (July 14) as murder.

    At 5.42pm yesterday, Police received a report from a staff member of a residential care home on Long Wo Road that a man had collapsed

    Police officers sped to the scene and found the 54-year-old man lying unconsciously on the ground. Sustaining no superficial injury, he was rushed to Pok Oi Hospital and was certified dead at 6.35pm.

    Initial investigation revealed that the deceased allegedly had a dispute with a 50-year-old man, who assaulted him with fists and kicks. Police arrested the 50-year-old man for murder at scene. He is being detained for further enquiries.

    Post-mortem examinations will be conducted later to ascertain the cause of death of the deceased.

    Active investigations by the District Crime Squad of Yuen Long are under way.

    Anyone who witnessed the case or has any information to offer is urged to contact the investigating officers on 3661 4640.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Death on arrival case in Yuen Long reclassified as murder

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Police reclassified a death on arrival case happened in Yuen Long yesterday (July 14) as murder.

    At 5.42pm yesterday, Police received a report from a staff member of a residential care home on Long Wo Road that a man had collapsed

    Police officers sped to the scene and found the 54-year-old man lying unconsciously on the ground. Sustaining no superficial injury, he was rushed to Pok Oi Hospital and was certified dead at 6.35pm.

    Initial investigation revealed that the deceased allegedly had a dispute with a 50-year-old man, who assaulted him with fists and kicks. Police arrested the 50-year-old man for murder at scene. He is being detained for further enquiries.

    Post-mortem examinations will be conducted later to ascertain the cause of death of the deceased.

    Active investigations by the District Crime Squad of Yuen Long are under way.

    Anyone who witnessed the case or has any information to offer is urged to contact the investigating officers on 3661 4640.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Rejuvenated Stokes leads England to epic Lord’s win

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    England captain Ben Stokes was named player of the match after taking five wickets in his team’s dramatic 22-run victory over India in the third test at Lord’s as well as scoring 44 and 33 and running out the dangerous Rishabh Pant in a splendid all-round performance.

    Stokes, 34, underwent a successful operation on as torn hamstring in December followed by a rigorous physical fitness programme during which he lost 10 kilograms in weight.

    On Sunday he showed he was back to his best with the ball, knocking nightwatchman Akash Deep’s off stump out of the ground as England captured three wickets in the final 30 minutes with India chasing 193 to take a 2-1 lead in the series.

    He resumed the attack from the Nursery End in Monday’s morning session, bounding in for 80 minutes and capturing the key wicket of KL Rahul with a delivery which swung in late to trap the Indian opener for 39 after winning a review when his impassioned appeal was turned down.

    The television review showed the ball would have crashed into the leg stump and he continued to bowl at speeds consistently in excess of 85 miles an hour before handing the ball to Chris Woakes for the final 20 minutes of the morning session.

    An obdurate ninth-wicket stand between Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah, cheered vociferously by the Indian supporters in a packed Lord’s, frustrated England for most of the afternoon before Stokes had Bumrah caught skying a hook to mid-on.

    He finished with three for 46 from 24 overs, the most bowled by any England bowler, and switched his fielders constantly before racing to embrace his team mates when last man Mohammed Siraj played the ball on to his stumps.

    “I’ve taken myself to some pretty dark places,” Stoke said after the match concluded in bright sunshine before a capacity crowd at the home of cricket.

    “But if bowling for your country to a test match win doesn’t get you excited, I don’t know what does. I was cooked yesterday but nothing was stopping me. I’m an all-rounder, I get four opportunities to influence the game.”

    “I’d like to score more runs but you don’t have a chance to worry about anything. Now I’m going to be looking forward to lying in my bed for four days.”

    (Reuters)

  • Rejuvenated Stokes leads England to epic Lord’s win

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    England captain Ben Stokes was named player of the match after taking five wickets in his team’s dramatic 22-run victory over India in the third test at Lord’s as well as scoring 44 and 33 and running out the dangerous Rishabh Pant in a splendid all-round performance.

    Stokes, 34, underwent a successful operation on as torn hamstring in December followed by a rigorous physical fitness programme during which he lost 10 kilograms in weight.

    On Sunday he showed he was back to his best with the ball, knocking nightwatchman Akash Deep’s off stump out of the ground as England captured three wickets in the final 30 minutes with India chasing 193 to take a 2-1 lead in the series.

    He resumed the attack from the Nursery End in Monday’s morning session, bounding in for 80 minutes and capturing the key wicket of KL Rahul with a delivery which swung in late to trap the Indian opener for 39 after winning a review when his impassioned appeal was turned down.

    The television review showed the ball would have crashed into the leg stump and he continued to bowl at speeds consistently in excess of 85 miles an hour before handing the ball to Chris Woakes for the final 20 minutes of the morning session.

    An obdurate ninth-wicket stand between Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah, cheered vociferously by the Indian supporters in a packed Lord’s, frustrated England for most of the afternoon before Stokes had Bumrah caught skying a hook to mid-on.

    He finished with three for 46 from 24 overs, the most bowled by any England bowler, and switched his fielders constantly before racing to embrace his team mates when last man Mohammed Siraj played the ball on to his stumps.

    “I’ve taken myself to some pretty dark places,” Stoke said after the match concluded in bright sunshine before a capacity crowd at the home of cricket.

    “But if bowling for your country to a test match win doesn’t get you excited, I don’t know what does. I was cooked yesterday but nothing was stopping me. I’m an all-rounder, I get four opportunities to influence the game.”

    “I’d like to score more runs but you don’t have a chance to worry about anything. Now I’m going to be looking forward to lying in my bed for four days.”

    (Reuters)

  • Rejuvenated Stokes leads England to epic Lord’s win

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    England captain Ben Stokes was named player of the match after taking five wickets in his team’s dramatic 22-run victory over India in the third test at Lord’s as well as scoring 44 and 33 and running out the dangerous Rishabh Pant in a splendid all-round performance.

    Stokes, 34, underwent a successful operation on as torn hamstring in December followed by a rigorous physical fitness programme during which he lost 10 kilograms in weight.

    On Sunday he showed he was back to his best with the ball, knocking nightwatchman Akash Deep’s off stump out of the ground as England captured three wickets in the final 30 minutes with India chasing 193 to take a 2-1 lead in the series.

    He resumed the attack from the Nursery End in Monday’s morning session, bounding in for 80 minutes and capturing the key wicket of KL Rahul with a delivery which swung in late to trap the Indian opener for 39 after winning a review when his impassioned appeal was turned down.

    The television review showed the ball would have crashed into the leg stump and he continued to bowl at speeds consistently in excess of 85 miles an hour before handing the ball to Chris Woakes for the final 20 minutes of the morning session.

    An obdurate ninth-wicket stand between Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah, cheered vociferously by the Indian supporters in a packed Lord’s, frustrated England for most of the afternoon before Stokes had Bumrah caught skying a hook to mid-on.

    He finished with three for 46 from 24 overs, the most bowled by any England bowler, and switched his fielders constantly before racing to embrace his team mates when last man Mohammed Siraj played the ball on to his stumps.

    “I’ve taken myself to some pretty dark places,” Stoke said after the match concluded in bright sunshine before a capacity crowd at the home of cricket.

    “But if bowling for your country to a test match win doesn’t get you excited, I don’t know what does. I was cooked yesterday but nothing was stopping me. I’m an all-rounder, I get four opportunities to influence the game.”

    “I’d like to score more runs but you don’t have a chance to worry about anything. Now I’m going to be looking forward to lying in my bed for four days.”

    (Reuters)

  • Rejuvenated Stokes leads England to epic Lord’s win

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    England captain Ben Stokes was named player of the match after taking five wickets in his team’s dramatic 22-run victory over India in the third test at Lord’s as well as scoring 44 and 33 and running out the dangerous Rishabh Pant in a splendid all-round performance.

    Stokes, 34, underwent a successful operation on as torn hamstring in December followed by a rigorous physical fitness programme during which he lost 10 kilograms in weight.

    On Sunday he showed he was back to his best with the ball, knocking nightwatchman Akash Deep’s off stump out of the ground as England captured three wickets in the final 30 minutes with India chasing 193 to take a 2-1 lead in the series.

    He resumed the attack from the Nursery End in Monday’s morning session, bounding in for 80 minutes and capturing the key wicket of KL Rahul with a delivery which swung in late to trap the Indian opener for 39 after winning a review when his impassioned appeal was turned down.

    The television review showed the ball would have crashed into the leg stump and he continued to bowl at speeds consistently in excess of 85 miles an hour before handing the ball to Chris Woakes for the final 20 minutes of the morning session.

    An obdurate ninth-wicket stand between Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah, cheered vociferously by the Indian supporters in a packed Lord’s, frustrated England for most of the afternoon before Stokes had Bumrah caught skying a hook to mid-on.

    He finished with three for 46 from 24 overs, the most bowled by any England bowler, and switched his fielders constantly before racing to embrace his team mates when last man Mohammed Siraj played the ball on to his stumps.

    “I’ve taken myself to some pretty dark places,” Stoke said after the match concluded in bright sunshine before a capacity crowd at the home of cricket.

    “But if bowling for your country to a test match win doesn’t get you excited, I don’t know what does. I was cooked yesterday but nothing was stopping me. I’m an all-rounder, I get four opportunities to influence the game.”

    “I’d like to score more runs but you don’t have a chance to worry about anything. Now I’m going to be looking forward to lying in my bed for four days.”

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s press conference on the launch of the Sustainable Development Goals Report 2025 [as delivered]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Dear members of the media.

    Today, we launch the Sustainable Development Goals Report 2025. 

    Under-Secretary-General Li will go through the details. 

    But allow me to kick things off.

    We are now ten years into our collective journey toward the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

    The report is a snapshot of where we stand today.

    Since 2015, millions more people have gained access to electricity, clean cooking, and the internet.

    Social protection now reaches over half the world’s population — a significant increase from just a decade ago.

    Access to education has continued to increase and more girls are staying in school.

    Child marriage is declining.

    Renewable energy capacity is growing, with developing countries leading the way.

    And women’s representation is rising — across governments, businesses and societies.

    These gains show that investments in development and inclusion yield results.
    But let’s be clear: we are not where we need to be.

    Only 35 percent of SDG targets are on track or making moderate progress.

    Nearly half are moving too slowly.

    And 18 percent are going in reverse.

    We are in a global development emergency.

    An emergency measured in the over 800 million people still living in extreme poverty.

    In intensifying climate impacts.

    And in relentless debt service, draining the resources that countries need to invest in their people.

    We must also recognize the deep linkages between under-development and conflicts.

    That’s why we must keep working for peace in the Middle East.

    We need an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the immediate release of all hostages, and unimpeded humanitarian access as a first step to achieve the two-State solution.

    We need the ceasefire between Iran and Israel to hold.

    We need a just and lasting peace in Ukraine based on the UN Charter, international law and UN resolutions. 

    We need an end to the horror and bloodshed in Sudan.

    From the DRC to Somalia, from the Sahel to Myanmar, we know that sustainable peace requires sustainable development.

    In the face of these challenges, the report we are launching today points the way to progress.
    Transformational pathways — in food, energy, digital access, education, jobs, and climate — are our roadmap.

    Progress in one area can multiply progress across all of them.

    But we must move faster, and we must move together.

    That means advancing affordable, quality healthcare for all.

    Investing in women and girls as a central driver of progress.

    Focusing on quality education and creating decent jobs and economic opportunities that leave no one behind.

    Closing the digital divide and ensuring that technologies like artificial intelligence are used responsibly and inclusively.

    And it means recognizing a fundamental fact.

    Progress is impossible without unlocking financing at scale.

    The recent Sevilla Commitment reflected a commitment to get the engine of development revving again.

    Through reform of the international financial architecture, real action on debt relief, and tripling the lending capacity of multilateral development banks so countries can better access capital at scale and at a reasonable cost.

    We have more opportunities to drive these priorities forward — from the High-Level Political Forum, to the Second Food Systems Stocktake Summit, to the World Social Summit, and more.

    We must maximize these moments for real commitments — and real delivery.

    Today’s report shows that the Sustainable Development Goals are still within reach.

    But only if we act — with urgency, unity, and unwavering resolve.

    It’s a pleasure to be with you again and I will give the floor to my dear colleague Li.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • President Droupadi Murmu addresses 5th annual convocation of AIIMS Bhubaneswar

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, addressed the 5th Annual Convocation Ceremony of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bhubaneswar today.

    Addressing the graduating students and faculty, the President noted that AIIMS Bhubaneswar, established under the vision of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2003, has emerged as a trusted centre for quality healthcare and social welfare not just in Odisha but also in neighbouring states like West Bengal, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand.

    Highlighting the institute’s achievements, the President stated that in the last year alone, AIIMS Bhubaneswar treated over 10 lakh outdoor patients, conducted 17 lakh diagnostic tests and carried out 25,000 surgeries. She added that the institute’s specialty and super-specialty services have enabled it to deliver holistic healthcare across departments.

    President Murmu lauded the institute’s recognition by the World Health Organization under the Asia Safe Surgical Implant Consortium Quality Improvement Programme for its standards in surgical instrument and implant reprocessing. She also mentioned the National Kayakalp Award that AIIMS Bhubaneswar has won for five consecutive years for excellence in sanitation and hospital services.

    Appreciating the dedication of the faculty and students, the President described doctors as “representatives of God” and urged the graduating students to continue serving society with commitment and compassion.

    Speaking on the occasion, the Governor of Odisha, Hari Babu Kambhampati, said that the establishment of AIIMS institutions was a visionary step towards building an equitable healthcare system. He underlined that AIIMS Bhubaneswar has emerged as a leading centre for medical education and research in eastern India, second only to AIIMS New Delhi. He also commended the institute’s contribution during the pandemic as a centre for testing, treatment and vaccination.

    Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi highlighted the Prime Minister’s focus on digital transformation and modernization of healthcare services. He mentioned that initiatives like e-payment facilities at AIIMS Bhubaneswar align with the vision of a Digital India.

    He further said that the recognition of AIIMS Bhubaneswar as a centre of excellence for tackling diseases like sickle cell anaemia reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare. He urged the students to “heal with empathy” and assured continued support for quality healthcare through strengthened infrastructure and schemes like Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana and Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana, covering over 3.5 crore people in the state.

    Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, in his address, described good health as the foundation of human progress. Referring to the Prime Minister’s vision of making India a developed nation by 2047, he expressed hope that Odisha would contribute by becoming a developed state by 2036.

    Highlighting the institute’s ranking — 15th overall in NIRF, 12th among medical colleges and 2nd among emerging AIIMS — Shri Pradhan said that Bhubaneswar has the potential to become a global MedTech hub. He called on the young doctors to take up the responsibility of addressing health challenges in vulnerable communities.

    A total of 643 students were awarded degrees during the convocation, including 196 MBBS graduates, 158 MS, 49 MDs, 116 post-doctoral fellows, 62 B.Sc. Nursing and 41 M.Sc. Nursing graduates. Fifty-nine gold medals were also awarded to meritorious students across disciplines.

  • President Droupadi Murmu addresses 5th annual convocation of AIIMS Bhubaneswar

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, addressed the 5th Annual Convocation Ceremony of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bhubaneswar today.

    Addressing the graduating students and faculty, the President noted that AIIMS Bhubaneswar, established under the vision of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2003, has emerged as a trusted centre for quality healthcare and social welfare not just in Odisha but also in neighbouring states like West Bengal, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand.

    Highlighting the institute’s achievements, the President stated that in the last year alone, AIIMS Bhubaneswar treated over 10 lakh outdoor patients, conducted 17 lakh diagnostic tests and carried out 25,000 surgeries. She added that the institute’s specialty and super-specialty services have enabled it to deliver holistic healthcare across departments.

    President Murmu lauded the institute’s recognition by the World Health Organization under the Asia Safe Surgical Implant Consortium Quality Improvement Programme for its standards in surgical instrument and implant reprocessing. She also mentioned the National Kayakalp Award that AIIMS Bhubaneswar has won for five consecutive years for excellence in sanitation and hospital services.

    Appreciating the dedication of the faculty and students, the President described doctors as “representatives of God” and urged the graduating students to continue serving society with commitment and compassion.

    Speaking on the occasion, the Governor of Odisha, Hari Babu Kambhampati, said that the establishment of AIIMS institutions was a visionary step towards building an equitable healthcare system. He underlined that AIIMS Bhubaneswar has emerged as a leading centre for medical education and research in eastern India, second only to AIIMS New Delhi. He also commended the institute’s contribution during the pandemic as a centre for testing, treatment and vaccination.

    Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi highlighted the Prime Minister’s focus on digital transformation and modernization of healthcare services. He mentioned that initiatives like e-payment facilities at AIIMS Bhubaneswar align with the vision of a Digital India.

    He further said that the recognition of AIIMS Bhubaneswar as a centre of excellence for tackling diseases like sickle cell anaemia reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare. He urged the students to “heal with empathy” and assured continued support for quality healthcare through strengthened infrastructure and schemes like Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana and Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana, covering over 3.5 crore people in the state.

    Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, in his address, described good health as the foundation of human progress. Referring to the Prime Minister’s vision of making India a developed nation by 2047, he expressed hope that Odisha would contribute by becoming a developed state by 2036.

    Highlighting the institute’s ranking — 15th overall in NIRF, 12th among medical colleges and 2nd among emerging AIIMS — Shri Pradhan said that Bhubaneswar has the potential to become a global MedTech hub. He called on the young doctors to take up the responsibility of addressing health challenges in vulnerable communities.

    A total of 643 students were awarded degrees during the convocation, including 196 MBBS graduates, 158 MS, 49 MDs, 116 post-doctoral fellows, 62 B.Sc. Nursing and 41 M.Sc. Nursing graduates. Fifty-nine gold medals were also awarded to meritorious students across disciplines.

  • President Droupadi Murmu addresses 5th annual convocation of AIIMS Bhubaneswar

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, addressed the 5th Annual Convocation Ceremony of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bhubaneswar today.

    Addressing the graduating students and faculty, the President noted that AIIMS Bhubaneswar, established under the vision of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2003, has emerged as a trusted centre for quality healthcare and social welfare not just in Odisha but also in neighbouring states like West Bengal, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand.

    Highlighting the institute’s achievements, the President stated that in the last year alone, AIIMS Bhubaneswar treated over 10 lakh outdoor patients, conducted 17 lakh diagnostic tests and carried out 25,000 surgeries. She added that the institute’s specialty and super-specialty services have enabled it to deliver holistic healthcare across departments.

    President Murmu lauded the institute’s recognition by the World Health Organization under the Asia Safe Surgical Implant Consortium Quality Improvement Programme for its standards in surgical instrument and implant reprocessing. She also mentioned the National Kayakalp Award that AIIMS Bhubaneswar has won for five consecutive years for excellence in sanitation and hospital services.

    Appreciating the dedication of the faculty and students, the President described doctors as “representatives of God” and urged the graduating students to continue serving society with commitment and compassion.

    Speaking on the occasion, the Governor of Odisha, Hari Babu Kambhampati, said that the establishment of AIIMS institutions was a visionary step towards building an equitable healthcare system. He underlined that AIIMS Bhubaneswar has emerged as a leading centre for medical education and research in eastern India, second only to AIIMS New Delhi. He also commended the institute’s contribution during the pandemic as a centre for testing, treatment and vaccination.

    Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi highlighted the Prime Minister’s focus on digital transformation and modernization of healthcare services. He mentioned that initiatives like e-payment facilities at AIIMS Bhubaneswar align with the vision of a Digital India.

    He further said that the recognition of AIIMS Bhubaneswar as a centre of excellence for tackling diseases like sickle cell anaemia reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare. He urged the students to “heal with empathy” and assured continued support for quality healthcare through strengthened infrastructure and schemes like Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana and Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana, covering over 3.5 crore people in the state.

    Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, in his address, described good health as the foundation of human progress. Referring to the Prime Minister’s vision of making India a developed nation by 2047, he expressed hope that Odisha would contribute by becoming a developed state by 2036.

    Highlighting the institute’s ranking — 15th overall in NIRF, 12th among medical colleges and 2nd among emerging AIIMS — Shri Pradhan said that Bhubaneswar has the potential to become a global MedTech hub. He called on the young doctors to take up the responsibility of addressing health challenges in vulnerable communities.

    A total of 643 students were awarded degrees during the convocation, including 196 MBBS graduates, 158 MS, 49 MDs, 116 post-doctoral fellows, 62 B.Sc. Nursing and 41 M.Sc. Nursing graduates. Fifty-nine gold medals were also awarded to meritorious students across disciplines.

  • Centre to issue new guidelines to promote first-time exporters: Piyush Goyal

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The government will soon issue new guidelines on how to promote new markets, new products, and new exporters, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said on Monday. He added that the Ministry and districts can work together to promote One District One Product (ODOP) items in newer markets and support first-time exporters.

    He said the Commerce Ministry will collaborate with districts to help first-time exporters reach new markets.

    Goyal highlighted that 773 districts across various states have contributed to India’s success story.

    “India is like an oasis in a desert in a tumultuous world and is the fastest-growing large economy in the world today,” said the minister, adding that India is set to become the third-largest economy in 2027.

    He noted that India’s diverse products have the potential to reach global markets.

    Goyal cited examples such as Wayanad’s coffee, Ratnagiri mangoes, and saffron from Pulwama, saying these illustrate the wide range of products that can take India’s name worldwide.

    He emphasised that One District One Product is a unique initiative, unmatched by any other country. “Each district brings a different kind of legacy,” he said.

    Goyal also mentioned that sometimes two products must be recognised under ODOP and stressed that local products are now going global.

    The minister said that 64 out of 87 products are covered under the Industrial Investment Promotion Policy. He informed that all 38 districts of Bihar have achieved 100 per cent coverage of products under ODOP, and the state has prioritised the initiative.

    Goyal stated that all these products are integrated into the state’s economic system and included in the industrial policy. Bihar has been categorised as Category A in this regard. He urged everyone to take a pledge to make ODOP a driving force for prosperity in their districts through their unique products.

    –IANS

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: ‘Pig butchering’ scams have stolen billions from people around the world. Here’s what you need to know

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Bing Han, Lecturer in Economic Crime, University of Portsmouth

    thanun vongsuravanich / Shutterstock

    At the beginning of 2025, panic about fraud and human trafficking erupted on Chinese social media. It started when a Chinese actor called Wang Xing was tricked into travelling to Thailand for an audition, where he was abducted by criminals and taken to a scam centre in Myanmar.

    Wang was reported missing and, within three days, the Thai police had located and returned him to Thailand. Details of the operation were not revealed, leading to speculation that withholding more information was part of a deal that led to Wang’s release.

    Inside the compound, Wang’s head was shaved and he told the police he was forced to undergo the first phase of training on how to carry out scams.



    Read more:
    Scam Factories: the inside story of Southeast Asia’s brutal fraud compounds

    One such scam is known as “pig butchering”. This type of scam began attracting attention in China around 2019, and is typically carried out by Chinese organised crime groups. Scammers establish fake romantic and trusting relationships with victims before luring them into fraudulent investments or other financial traps.

    Pig-butchering scammers have stolen billions of dollars from victims worldwide. In one notable example from 2023, a banker from Kansas in the US called Shan Hanes embezzled US$47 million (£34.6 million) from his bank to cover his losses after falling victim to a pig butchering scam. Hanes was subsequently sentenced to more than 24 years in prison. So, what do we know about how pig butchering scams work?

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    A pig butchering scam consists of three stages: hunting, raising and killing. These stages correspond to scammers finding victims online, talking with them to build trust and then getting them to invest large amounts of money in fraudulent schemes.

    There are some similarities between a pig butchering scam and a traditional romance scam. Scammers may, as in a traditional scam, approach their victims by posing as a possible romantic partner on a dating app or a friend on social media.

    But the key difference lies in how the scam is executed. In a traditional romance scam, trust is based on the victim’s desire to maintain a romantic relationship with the scammer. Because of this, traditional romance scams can sometimes last for years.

    Pig butchering scams, in comparison, generally take place over a shorter time frame. Rather than focusing on extracting money solely through emotional manipulation, they lean heavily on the victim’s desire to make money together with the scammer. They often involve just a few months of talking with the victim.

    The scammers present themselves as financially successful and confident people with broad networks and attractive investment opportunities. Once a victim makes a small initial investment, scammers rapidly escalate the process and push them into making much larger financial commitments.

    In one example from 2024, a woman in the US state of Connecticut called Jacqueline Crenshaw met a man on an online dating site. He was posing as a widower with two children and frequently spoke with Crenshaw over the phone. Within two months, they began discussing investing in cryptocurrency.

    Crenshaw sent him US$40,000 (£29,500) initially and received screenshots from him showing supposedly huge profits from the cryptocurrency investment. The scammer soon encouraged Crenshaw to invest much more, which ultimately led to her losing nearly US$1 million (£738,000).

    Organised crime groups

    Pig butchering scams are typically run by highly organised criminal groups. These groups have management teams, provide training to new recruits and often hire people as models who occasionally interact with victims.

    The Chinese government has taken several steps to combat fraud in recent years. It enacted the Anti-Telecom Fraud Law in 2022, which was designed specifically to prevent and punish the use of telecommunications and internet technologies to defraud individuals and organisations. It was introduced in response to the growing prevalence of pig butchering scams in China.

    The Chinese Ministry of Public Security has also developed a mobile application called the National Anti-Fraud Center App. The app allows the public to report scams and access real-time risk alerts related to fraud. Alongside the work of other government departments, it has helped intercept 4.7 billion scam calls and 3.4 billion fraudulent text messages since the beginning of 2024.

    The crackdown on fraud within China has made it more difficult for criminal groups to operate domestically, prompting many to relocate their bases abroad. South-east Asian countries – particularly Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar – have become a preferred destination for such groups.

    Regions of northern Myanmar, such as Kokang and Wa State, have become breeding grounds for organised fraud over the past few years. Chinese is widely spoken in both of these areas and local customs closely resemble those in China.

    This has been exacerbated by persistent corruption in border areas, poor governance and instability. The collapse of the illegal online gambling industry in south-east Asia following the pandemic has also led crime groups to search for new sources of revenue. These conditions have together facilitated the proliferation of large-scale fraudulent operations.

    Organised fraud has evolved into a key pillar of the local economy in certain parts of south-east Asia. The profits generated from online scams are estimated to amount to 40% of the combined GDP of Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar.

    Criminal leaders have established tightly controlled compounds that serve as hubs for online scams, with their primary activities centred on pig butchering. These compounds are frequently presented as “technology parks”, which helps recruit workers. However, many people are forced to work in the scam centres.

    Pig butchering scams can inflict severe financial harm on victims. But are also closely tied to violent crime, human trafficking and other forms of organised criminal activity. They pose a growing threat to regional and global security.

    Bing Han 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. ‘Pig butchering’ scams have stolen billions from people around the world. Here’s what you need to know – https://theconversation.com/pig-butchering-scams-have-stolen-billions-from-people-around-the-world-heres-what-you-need-to-know-252774

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • Over 6.6 crore electors in Bihar included in draft electoral roll; ECI steps up efforts with 11 days left

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    With just 11 days remaining for the last date of submission of Enumeration Forms (EFs) under the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has collected EFs from over 6.6 crore electors so far.

    According to official figures, out of Bihar’s total 7,89,69,844 electors, EFs of 6,60,67,208 voters—amounting to 83.66%—have been received after two rounds of door-to-door visits by Booth Level Officers (BLOs).

    So far, about 1.59% of electors have been found deceased, 2.2% have permanently shifted, and 0.73% were found enrolled at more than one location. This means that 88.18% of electors have either submitted their forms, been confirmed deceased, or have shifted residence.

    Only about 11.82% of electors now remain to submit their forms. Many among them have sought additional time to complete and submit their EFs with supporting documents in the coming days.

    The ECI has directed nearly one lakh BLOs to begin a third round of door-to-door visits to ensure that no eligible voter is left out of the draft Electoral Roll. Their efforts are being supported by around 1.5 lakh Booth Level Agents (BLAs) appointed by political parties, with each BLA permitted to certify and submit up to 50 forms daily.

    To strengthen urban voter enrollment, special camps are being organised across all 5,683 wards under the 261 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) of Bihar.

    For electors who may have temporarily migrated out of Bihar, the Commission has stepped up outreach through newspaper advertisements and direct contact to help them submit their forms on time. Such electors can also submit EFs online using their mobile phones via the ECINet App or the official website (https://voters.eci.gov.in). They may also send completed forms to the concerned BLO through family members, WhatsApp, or other online modes.

    The newly launched ECINet platform, which integrates 40 previous ECI applications into a single portal, is playing a key role in the Bihar SIR. It enables electors to submit forms online, check names in the 2003 Electoral Roll where needed, and directly connect with election officials, including BLOs.

    As of 6 PM today, over 5.74 crore Enumeration Forms have been uploaded through ECINet. Its document review module has also accelerated the verification of electors’ eligibility by Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs), Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), and District Election Officers (DEOs).

    The draft Electoral Roll for Bihar will be published on August 1, 2025. The ECI has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that no eligible voter is left out of the electoral process.

  • MIL-OSI China: Japan urged to exercise prudence in military, security fields 2025-07-14 23:52:29 China on Monday urged Japan to draw lessons from history, in a bid to exercise prudence in security issues as this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      BEIJING, July 14 (Xinhua) — China on Monday urged Japan to draw lessons from history, in a bid to exercise prudence in security issues as this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

      Jiang Bin, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks in response to a media request for comment on claims by Japanese government sources that the country plans to export six Abukuma-class ships to the Philippines.

      The spokesperson reiterated China’s position that defense and security cooperation between countries should neither target a third party nor undermine the interests of any third party.

      Jiang highlighted the historical responsibilities of Japanese militarism during World War II, including invasions and colonial rule over neighboring countries such as China and the Philippines, as well as the occupation of islands in the South China Sea.

      In recent years, Japan has breached the constraints of its pacifist constitution and the exclusive defense-oriented principle, continuously exporting weapons and military equipment abroad, the spokesperson noted.

      Such actions are seen as attempts to form exclusive blocs and stir instability in the South China Sea and the broader Asia-Pacific region, he said.

      “We urge the Japanese side to engage in deep reflection, draw lessons from history, exercise prudence in both words and actions regarding military and security matters, and make contributions to regional peace and stability,” the spokesperson said. 

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Japan urged to exercise prudence in military, security fields 2025-07-14 23:52:29 China on Monday urged Japan to draw lessons from history, in a bid to exercise prudence in security issues as this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      BEIJING, July 14 (Xinhua) — China on Monday urged Japan to draw lessons from history, in a bid to exercise prudence in security issues as this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

      Jiang Bin, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks in response to a media request for comment on claims by Japanese government sources that the country plans to export six Abukuma-class ships to the Philippines.

      The spokesperson reiterated China’s position that defense and security cooperation between countries should neither target a third party nor undermine the interests of any third party.

      Jiang highlighted the historical responsibilities of Japanese militarism during World War II, including invasions and colonial rule over neighboring countries such as China and the Philippines, as well as the occupation of islands in the South China Sea.

      In recent years, Japan has breached the constraints of its pacifist constitution and the exclusive defense-oriented principle, continuously exporting weapons and military equipment abroad, the spokesperson noted.

      Such actions are seen as attempts to form exclusive blocs and stir instability in the South China Sea and the broader Asia-Pacific region, he said.

      “We urge the Japanese side to engage in deep reflection, draw lessons from history, exercise prudence in both words and actions regarding military and security matters, and make contributions to regional peace and stability,” the spokesperson said. 

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Japan urged to exercise prudence in military, security fields 2025-07-14 23:52:29 China on Monday urged Japan to draw lessons from history, in a bid to exercise prudence in security issues as this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      BEIJING, July 14 (Xinhua) — China on Monday urged Japan to draw lessons from history, in a bid to exercise prudence in security issues as this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

      Jiang Bin, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks in response to a media request for comment on claims by Japanese government sources that the country plans to export six Abukuma-class ships to the Philippines.

      The spokesperson reiterated China’s position that defense and security cooperation between countries should neither target a third party nor undermine the interests of any third party.

      Jiang highlighted the historical responsibilities of Japanese militarism during World War II, including invasions and colonial rule over neighboring countries such as China and the Philippines, as well as the occupation of islands in the South China Sea.

      In recent years, Japan has breached the constraints of its pacifist constitution and the exclusive defense-oriented principle, continuously exporting weapons and military equipment abroad, the spokesperson noted.

      Such actions are seen as attempts to form exclusive blocs and stir instability in the South China Sea and the broader Asia-Pacific region, he said.

      “We urge the Japanese side to engage in deep reflection, draw lessons from history, exercise prudence in both words and actions regarding military and security matters, and make contributions to regional peace and stability,” the spokesperson said. 

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: Ice and Fire of Bitcoin Mining: Cost Dilemma and Green Computing Revolution under $118,000, KGN Cloud Mining Triggers Global Hot Spots

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    The total network computing power exceeded the historical high of 900 EH/s, and the mining cost of each BTC soared 34% to $70,000-miners are looking for the survival code in the carnival and anxiety.

    01 Computing power inflation and cost crisis: the life and death game of mining
    Cost storm: The mining cost of a single Bitcoin exceeded $70,000 in Q2 2025, a 34% increase from the beginning of the year. After the halving, the block reward was halved to 3.125 BTC, but the total network computing power rose against the trend to 908 EH/s, causing the unit computing power income (Hashprice) to plummet by 60% to $0.049/TH.

    Energy noose: The energy cost of North American mining companies doubled year-on-year, and mining machines in areas with electricity prices exceeding $0.1/kWh were shut down on a large scale. The Middle East has become a new gold mine – the UAE government project electricity price is as low as $0.035/kWh, and Oman subsidizes electricity prices of $0.05-0.07/kWh, attracting large-scale capital migration.

    02 Capital mergers and acquisitions and technological revolution: Reconstructing the new mining landscape
    Capital integration wave
    Giant acquisitions: AI cloud computing company CoreWeave acquired British mining company CoreScientific. The stock price soared 18.5% on the day the transaction was exposed, revealing the value transfer of computing power assets to technology giants.

    Financing frenzy: American Bitcoin Corp, supported by the Trump family, raised $215 million; listed mining companies Mara, Riot, and CleanSpark raised more than $3.7 billion in half a year; Southeast Asian mining company CloudKGN received $120 million from Sequoia Capital to expand the Singapore hydropower station data center.

    Technical breakthrough path
    Technical direction Breakthrough case Energy efficiency improvement
    Liquid-cooled mining machine cluster KGNcloud third-generation liquid cooling system Mining machine density increased by 3 times, energy consumption reduced by 35%
    Dynamic load balancing Mining computing power and AI task intelligent scheduling Energy reuse rate exceeds 80%
    Hybrid mining protocol Dynamic switching of 6 currencies including BTC/ETH Revenue volatility risk reduced by 57%
    “The essence of mining machines is upgrading from ‘computing power tools’ to ‘energy converters’” – Bitmain’s chief engineer pointed out at the 2025 World Mining Summit

    03、Personal miner survival guide: The cruel reality of the four major tracks
    Lottery Mining

    •  Operation: Use 3-5 TH/s small equipment for independent mining

    Income: The success rate is only 0.0000006%, but in 2024, there will be miners with 3 TH/s wins $200,000 block reward

    •  ASIC single-soldier combat

    Hardware threshold: Ant S21+ (235TH/s) or Shenma M61 (202TH/s), the cost of a single unit exceeds $3000

    Cruel reality: The average daily income of a single machine is 0.000133 BTC, and a cluster of more than 20 units is required to break 1 block per year

    •  Pool mining (mainstream choice)

    Income logic: income is distributed according to the proportion of computing power, and the FPPS mode guarantees daily settlement

    Recommended mining pools: Foundry USA (rate 1.5%), AntPool (FPPS+PPLNS dual mode)

    Case: 10 S21+ join AntPool, with an average daily income of about 0.00133 BTC (about $112)

    04 、Why choose KGNcloud?
    KGNcloud combines technological advantages with financial compliance to create the world’s leading intelligent cloud mining platform:

    •  UK FCA Authoritative Certification

    The platform has passed the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) compliance certification, with formal operations, transparent funds, and user asset security.

    All new users will automatically receive $100 worth of free computing power after registration, and can start mining without recharging, truly realizing a zero-cost experience of daily cryptocurrency income.

    •  The only “principal and interest guaranteed” contract in the entire network

    KGNcloud pioneered the “principal and interest guaranteed” mining mechanism, locking the principal and distributing fixed income every day, helping users to make stable profits without fear of fluctuations.

    •  AI intelligent mining system

    The platform uses AI algorithms to automatically dispatch the world’s best mining pool resources to achieve 24-hour uninterrupted and efficient mining, and the income far exceeds the industry average.

    • The income is settled daily and can be withdrawn or reinvested at any time

    Users can flexibly manage income and withdraw coins quickly, supporting mainstream currencies such as BTC, USDT, ETH, and XRP.

    Summary:
    KGN cloud offers up to 6.63% daily returns through cloud mining, without having to worry about market fluctuations. Join KGN Miner now, get a $500 free trial, and start enjoying a stable and easy cryptocurrency income. Stop blindly following the trend – start mining and grow your wealth.

    Sign up now to get $100 worth of free cloud computing power and start your path to a stable daily income.

    Website：https://kgnminer.com
    Connect:support@kgnminer.com

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Louisville Men Sentenced for Distribution of Over 21,000 Fentanyl Pills and Firearm Offenses

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    Louisville, KY – Two local men were sentenced last week for conspiracy to possess fentanyl with intent to distribute, possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.  

    U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department, Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman, Chief Barry Wilkerson of the St. Matthews Police Department, and Sheriff Joe Milam of the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office made the announcement.

    According to court documents, Jamie Shelby, Jr., 26, was sentenced to 15 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess fentanyl with intent to distribute, possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Kevon Smith, 25, was sentenced to 5 years and 10 months in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess fentanyl with intent to distribute and possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute.

    Between April 12, 2024, and July 9, 2024, Shelby, Jr. and Smith conspired with each other to possess fentanyl with intent to distribute it and distributed fentanyl. The investigation involved four controlled purchases for a total of 4,200 fentanyl pills from Shelby, Jr. and Smith. During the execution of a search warrant at Shelby Jr.’s residence on July 12, 2024, over 17,000 fentanyl pills and four firearms were seized. The firearms seized included a Glock, Model 43X, 9-millimeter pistol; a Springfield, Model 911, .380 caliber pistol; a Glock, Model 22, .40 caliber pistol; and a Sig Sauer, Model P320, 9-millimeter pistol. The estimated street value of the over 21,000 fentanyl pills seized in the case is $106,000.

    Shelby, Jr. had been convicted of the following felony offenses.

    On September 26, 2019, in Harrison Superior Court, Harrison County, Indiana, Shelby, Jr. was convicted of the offense of conspiracy to commit robbery.

    On March 12, 2020, in Clark Circuit Court 3, Clark County, Indiana, Shelby, Jr. was convicted of the offense of domestic battery committed in the presence of a child less than sixteen years old.

    “These defendants earned every second of the sentences imposed for their callous disregard of the people of the Western District of Kentucky,” said U.S. Attorney Bumgarner. “The pattern of fentanyl pouring across the border and into our community must stop; with these sentences, two more distributors of illicit substances are off our streets.”

    “Counterfeit pharmaceuticals laced with deadly doses of fentanyl continue to devastate our communities. But thanks to the strong partnerships with our federal, state, and local partners, the dangerous criminals responsible for trafficking this poison for profit have been taken off our streets. The DEA remains committed to protecting lives and holding those who profit from this crisis accountable,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott.  

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case was investigated by the DEA, with assistance from the ATF Louisville Field Division, the Louisville Metro Police Department, the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office, the St. Matthews Police Department, and the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Erwin Roberts prosecuted the case.

    This conviction is a part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).     

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Louisville Men Sentenced for Distribution of Over 21,000 Fentanyl Pills and Firearm Offenses

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    Louisville, KY – Two local men were sentenced last week for conspiracy to possess fentanyl with intent to distribute, possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.  

    U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department, Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman, Chief Barry Wilkerson of the St. Matthews Police Department, and Sheriff Joe Milam of the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office made the announcement.

    According to court documents, Jamie Shelby, Jr., 26, was sentenced to 15 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess fentanyl with intent to distribute, possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Kevon Smith, 25, was sentenced to 5 years and 10 months in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess fentanyl with intent to distribute and possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute.

    Between April 12, 2024, and July 9, 2024, Shelby, Jr. and Smith conspired with each other to possess fentanyl with intent to distribute it and distributed fentanyl. The investigation involved four controlled purchases for a total of 4,200 fentanyl pills from Shelby, Jr. and Smith. During the execution of a search warrant at Shelby Jr.’s residence on July 12, 2024, over 17,000 fentanyl pills and four firearms were seized. The firearms seized included a Glock, Model 43X, 9-millimeter pistol; a Springfield, Model 911, .380 caliber pistol; a Glock, Model 22, .40 caliber pistol; and a Sig Sauer, Model P320, 9-millimeter pistol. The estimated street value of the over 21,000 fentanyl pills seized in the case is $106,000.

    Shelby, Jr. had been convicted of the following felony offenses.

    On September 26, 2019, in Harrison Superior Court, Harrison County, Indiana, Shelby, Jr. was convicted of the offense of conspiracy to commit robbery.

    On March 12, 2020, in Clark Circuit Court 3, Clark County, Indiana, Shelby, Jr. was convicted of the offense of domestic battery committed in the presence of a child less than sixteen years old.

    “These defendants earned every second of the sentences imposed for their callous disregard of the people of the Western District of Kentucky,” said U.S. Attorney Bumgarner. “The pattern of fentanyl pouring across the border and into our community must stop; with these sentences, two more distributors of illicit substances are off our streets.”

    “Counterfeit pharmaceuticals laced with deadly doses of fentanyl continue to devastate our communities. But thanks to the strong partnerships with our federal, state, and local partners, the dangerous criminals responsible for trafficking this poison for profit have been taken off our streets. The DEA remains committed to protecting lives and holding those who profit from this crisis accountable,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott.  

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case was investigated by the DEA, with assistance from the ATF Louisville Field Division, the Louisville Metro Police Department, the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office, the St. Matthews Police Department, and the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Erwin Roberts prosecuted the case.

    This conviction is a part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).     

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • Chief Ministers of Uttarakhand and Mizoram meet Prime Minister Modi in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Chief Minister of Uttarakhand Pushkar Singh Dhami met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi today and apprised him of the ongoing development works and key upcoming projects in the state.

    During the meeting, Chief Minister Dhami presented the Prime Minister with a replica of the Shri Kartik Swami Temple located in Rudraprayag district. He briefed the Prime Minister on the progress of the Char Dham Yatra, Adi Kailash Yatra, Kanwar Yatra, Nanda Raj Jat Yatra and preparations for the upcoming Kumbh Mela to be held in 2027.

    The Chief Minister also informed the Prime Minister about the achievements under the Jal Jeevan Mission and discussed the current status of the scheme in the state.

    CM Dhami urged the Prime Minister to consider extending the Delhi–Meerut (Modipuram) Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) up to Haridwar and Rishikesh. He also requested financial assistance of ₹3,500 crore for the successful organisation of the Haridwar Kumbh 2027 and ₹400 crore for the smooth conduct of the Nanda Raj Jat Yatra in 2026.

    He sought the Prime Minister’s support for including the river-linking project under a special scheme and requested directions to the concerned ministry for CSR funding for the Haridwar–Rishikesh Ganga Corridor and Sharda Corridor projects. The Chief Minister also requested the Prime Minister to approve five previously recommended hydropower projects and sought support for setting up a semiconductor industry at NEPA Farm in Udham Singh Nagar district.

    The Chief Minister further requested the Prime Minister’s intervention to approve the ₹1,015.11 crore DPR under the RDSS scheme for undergrounding HT/LT lines and automating the power system in Rishikesh and Haridwar to enhance their aesthetic appeal. He also urged for the necessary clearances from the National Board for Wildlife’s Standing Committee to restore and develop Chaurasi Kutiya in Rishikesh.

    Meanwhile, Chief Minister of Mizoram Lalduhoma also called on Prime Minister Modi in New Delhi today. During the meeting, Chief Minister Lalduhoma discussed key development issues pertaining to Mizoram and sought the Centre’s continued support for the state’s progress.