NewzIntel.com

Category: China

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Foreign Trade Maintains Steady Growth Despite Tariff Barriers – Chinese Foreign Ministry

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, May 21 (Xinhua) — China’s foreign trade has maintained steady growth despite high tariff barriers, demonstrating China’s full readiness, ability and confidence to face various risks and challenges, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Wednesday.

    The diplomat made the statement at a regular briefing, commenting on the impact of external factors such as tariffs on the Chinese economy following a recent UN report that global economic growth could slow to 2.4 percent in 2025 due to escalating trade tensions and political uncertainty.

    As Mao Ning noted, international media called China’s economic performance in the first four months of this year “exceeding expectations” and “resilient.”

    According to her, in the first four months, the total volume of imports and exports of goods increased by 2.4 percent year-on-year, while exports grew by 7.5 percent, which indicates China’s high international competitiveness.

    China continues to expand its opening up, giving foreign businesses more development opportunities and more stable expectations, Mao Ning added.

    “All this demonstrates China’s full readiness, ability and confidence in confronting various risks and challenges,” the official representative of the Chinese Foreign Ministry emphasized. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Exclusive: Russia and China have made significant progress in bilateral cooperation in recent years – Russian businessman O. Deripaska

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    Moscow, May 21 /Xinhua/ — Russia and China have made significant progress in bilateral cooperation in recent years, and the countries have established a deep level of cooperation in many areas, Russian businessman Oleg Deripaska said in a recent interview with Xinhua.

    “We have made serious progress over the past four years. In general, this is a large, deep, large-scale cooperation in many areas: energy, transport, logistics, mechanical engineering, joint developments in aviation, space, nuclear energy. The countries share experience, organize joint design, develop engineering. This is already a fairly deep level of cooperation,” he noted.

    According to O. Deripaska, the countries are taking important steps to develop transport and logistics infrastructure. “The Russian side is modernizing railways, transport crossings, pipelines, power lines, communication lines, and ports. The Chinese and Russian sides are stimulating trade turnover by providing subsidies for transportation,” the businessman said, emphasizing that increasing the speed of cargo delivery improves trade.

    Another important area for further deepening trade and economic cooperation between the two countries, he believes, is improving financial conditions. This is not only about settlements in national currencies, but also about developing project financing mechanisms. “Our companies are already opening enterprises in China to produce modules that are needed for use in Russian production. In the same way, Chinese companies should invest in creating joint production facilities in Russia,” the Xinhua source believes.

    Speaking about cooperation between China and Russia in the field of science and education, O. Deripaska emphasized that in the next two years this issue will be given special attention, because joint educational projects not only bring the peoples of the two countries closer together, but also allow building a foundation for the future.

    As an example of such cooperation, the Russian entrepreneur cited the Chinese-Russian University PPI-MSU in Shenzhen /Guangdong Province, South China/. With the support of O. Deripaska’s funds, the university has created several educational programs for Chinese and Russian students. “Science is a source of progress, that is, all innovations begin with scientific developments, and this is important for us. Our investments create the opportunity for joint education in Russia and China,” he explained, adding that joint programs are being developed between universities in Irkutsk, Krasnoyarsk and universities in Harbin /the administrative center of Heilongjiang Province, Northeast China/ and Xi’an /the administrative center of Shaanxi Province, Northwest China/.

    The businessman praised the level of development of science, technology and engineering knowledge in China, noting significant successes in such high-tech areas as renewable energy, space programs, electronics, and electric vehicle production. “China has focused on education and building a system of scientific universities and research centers. A lot has been spent on training Chinese specialists abroad. Now many of them have returned. We see this progress,” he added.

    According to O. Deripaska, the deep level of cooperation between China and Russia allows us to hope that all the development goals set for the two countries will be achieved. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Kyrgyzstan sees rise in intestinal infections

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BISHKEK, May 21 (Xinhua) — Kyrgyzstan recorded a 35.7 percent increase in the incidence of intestinal infections in the first four months of 2025, the Department of Disease Prevention and State Sanitary and Epidemiological Surveillance of the Kyrgyz Ministry of Health reported on Wednesday.

    It is noted that since the beginning of the year, a total of 6,348 cases of infection have been registered, compared to 4,610 cases for the same period in 2024. Among those infected, 81.6 percent are children under 14 years of age.

    “According to data from a long-term analysis of acute intestinal infections, the incidence rate rises from May to September with a peak in August. The main cause of acute intestinal diseases remains failure to comply with personal hygiene rules, which is why children are most at risk of infection,” the agency said in a statement. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Ukrainian shot dead near American School of Madrid

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    MADRID, May 21 (Xinhua) — Spain’s National Police have launched an investigation into the murder of a 52-year-old Ukrainian citizen who was shot dead on Wednesday morning outside the American School in the Madrid suburb of Pozuelo de Alarcon.

    The incident occurred at around 09:15 local time /08:15 GMT/. Emergency medical personnel who arrived at the scene confirmed the man’s death from four gunshot wounds to the chest and one to the head. The injuries were assessed as “incompatible with life.”

    As a precaution, classes at the school were immediately suspended. No other casualties were reported. Parents of the students told local media that the deceased was the father of one of the students at the school.

    Although the investigation is still ongoing, preliminary police information suggests that the assailant was waiting for the victim on a motorcycle. Spanish radio station Cadena Ser identified the victim as Andriy Portnov, a former adviser to ex-Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Foreign, health ministers call on WHO to facilitate Taiwan’s participation

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    May 16, 2025  No. 157  

    During a joint press conference on May 16, Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung and Minister of Health and Welfare Chiu Tai-yuan called on the World Health Organization (WHO) to facilitate Taiwan’s participation. They said that Taiwan would demonstrate self-confidence and work with the world while showcasing the professionalism of Taiwan’s medical diplomacy team.
     
    The 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) is set to open in Geneva on May 19. Minister Lin and Minister Chiu held a joint press conference at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) on the morning of May 16, at which they underscored Taiwan’s willingness to contribute to better global health. The two ministers said that the WHO should not brook political interference but rather should promptly invite Taiwan to participate as an observer in the WHA as well as WHO technical meetings and thus realize WHO’s goal of “One World for Health.” 
     
    Making a special appearance at the press conference was the Puzangalan Children’s Choir of Pingtung County, which performed “Ualjaiyui,” a traditional song of blessing of the Paiwan indigenous community. The song speaks of good fortune and of passing on traditions. Taiwan shares such sentiments for its WHA Action Team headed to Geneva as well as to the world at large. Minister Lin pointed out that the choir would also be traveling to Geneva to show that Taiwan was not just a land of technology but also home to cultural soft power. 
     
    Minister Lin shared that this year’s WHA slogan is “One World for Health” and that the government was calling on WHO to “Chip in with Taiwan” so that no nation or people would be left behind, allowing Taiwan to work with other nations toward a healthier world. Adding that health and disease knew no borders, he said that in addressing COVID-19 Taiwan showed great resilience and was able to assist other nations. Excluding Taiwan from the WHA and WHO therefore represented a loss for the international community.
     
    Minister Lin further commented that Taiwan’s national health insurance program has enrolled 99 percent of residents and that no matter where people lived, they had access to Taiwan’s quality medical services and social security net, an accomplishment praised worldwide. Acknowledging WHO’s Global Action Plan for Health of Indigenous Peoples, the minister said that Taiwan was ready to share its experience providing quality medical care to indigenous people. 
     
    In the AI era, Minister Lin stated, utilizing digital technology could improve access to medical care. Reflecting this, MOFA would for the first time hold a forum on smart medicine in Geneva, at which both Acer Medical and Quanta Computer would share their experience in order to promote a Taiwan model of smart medicine. Taiwan, he said, would continue to show how it could help and underscore its role as a global leader in semiconductors and related technology. 
     
    Minister Lin said that to realize President Lai Ching-te’s vision of a healthy Taiwan, MOFA had implemented the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project and eight flagship projects, which included the smart medicine and healthcare industries. He said thats MOFA had worked with the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) to establish a Taiwan medical diplomacy team as well as a medical consultation team that included professionals from medical firms and organizations. Through the “One Country, One Center” project, medical cooperation would be strengthened with New Southbound Policy partner countries. Such efforts would also bring Taiwan’s healthcare industry—comprising its biotech, pharmaceutical, and information technology sectors—to the world. 
     
    Minister Lin thanked the nation’s diplomatic allies for making proposals in favor of Taiwan’s participation, as well as like-minded countries for taking such concrete steps as sending letters and conducting joint demarches in support of Taiwan. Such actions underscored the strength of international support for Taiwan. However, China’s distortion of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 and its pressure on the WHO Secretariat meant that Taiwan had yet to be invited to attend the WHA.
     
    Minister Lin stressed that Taiwan had established a government firmly rooted in popular support by conducting many democratic elections. As such, only the popularly elected government of Taiwan could represent the people of Taiwan at the United Nations, WHO, and other multilateral organizations. Many nations’ executive and legislative branches had publicly stated that UNGA Resolution 2758 did not preclude Taiwan’s participation in international organizations such as WHO. He then expressed hope that more nations would work together in support of Taiwan’s participation in WHO and oppose China’s international efforts at lawfare and cognitive warfare. 
     
    In addition, Minister Lin said that this year’s WHA slogan was “One World for Health” and that a Pandemic Agreement would be signed during the meeting. Taiwan had, he said, already shown the humanitarian spirit of “Taiwan can help” during COVID-19 and proved itself a valuable resource to WHO. However, Taiwan’s absence left a gap in the global public health and disease prevention network, said Minister Lin, who called on the WHO Secretariat to not brook political interference, to maintain professionalism and neutrality, and to facilitate Taiwan’s membership in the global public health and disease prevention network so as to create greater welfare for the world.
     
    In closing, Minister Lin said that Taiwan’s WHA Action Team would conduct publicity efforts in Geneva starting from May 16 and that MOFA and the MOHW would work together with self-confidence and engage the world. Moreover, the ministries would be proactive in making Taiwan’s voice heard and ensure that Taiwan responded to “One World for Health” and appealed to others to “Chip in with Taiwan” by making greater contributions to global public health. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Former Vice President Chen attends inauguration of Pope Leo XIV

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    May 18, 2025  
    No. 161  

    Former Vice President Chen Chien-jen, serving as special envoy of President Lai Ching-te, together with his wife and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs François Chihchung Wu, attended the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV on the morning of May 18. In an audience with the pontiff following the ceremony, Mr. Chen conveyed greetings from President Lai and the sincere congratulations of the government, people, and Catholic community of Taiwan.
     
    Upon arriving for the ceremony in St. Peter’s Square, Mr. Chen was received by a ceremonial officer for the Holy See. The inauguration, a grand and solemn occasion, took around two hours. According to statistics released by the Holy See, more than 150 delegations attended. Before the ceremony commenced, Mr. Chen exchanged greetings with Paraguayan Chamber of Deputies Speaker Raúl Latorre; Guatemalan Special Envoy and Ambassador to the Holy See Alfredo Vásquez Rivera; other officials from diplomatic allies; and delegates from the United States, Japan, Europe, and numerous other friendly countries. He also extended felicitations to and shared cordial interactions with several high-ranking members of the Vatican clergy, including Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Secretary of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue Monsignor Indunil Janakaratne Kodithuwakku Kankanamalage. 
     
    After the inauguration, Pope Leo received the heads of national delegations. Mr. Chen presented the pontiff with a congratulatory letter from President Lai, a commemorative set of postage stamps depicting four of Taiwan’s Catholic churches—St. Joseph’s Church in Jinlun Village, Taitung County; the Holy Family Catholic Church in Taipei City; the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Wanjin Village, Pingtung County; and the Holy Rosary Cathedral Basilica in Kaohsiung City—and a collection of postcards on Holy See artifacts jointly produced by Taiwan and the Apostolic Nunciature in Taiwan, highlighting the close connection between the Catholic Church in Taiwan and the Holy See. Mr. Chen also presented Pope Leo with a photo taken in 2020, when the pontiff was serving as bishop of the Chiclayo Diocese in Peru. The picture showed him accepting antipandemic supplies donated by Taiwan. The materials, delivered in cartons labeled “Taiwan Box,” were donated to Cáritas Chiclayo and other Peruvian healthcare and charitable organizations by the Pingtung County Government and Dr. Lai Hsien-yung of Hualien County’s Mennonite Christian Hospital. The government and people of Taiwan provided proactive assistance to the international community throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, fulfilling their international responsibilities and demonstrating that Taiwan could help and that Taiwan was helping.
     
    When Mr. Chen arrived at the airport in Rome on May 17, he met with Eswatini Prime Minister Russell Dlamini, who had also made the trip to attend the papal inauguration. Mr. Chen also attended a mass and prayer service for peace led by Bishop John Lee Keh-mien, President of the Chinese Regional Bishops’ Conference of Taiwan, at St. Benedict’s Monastery. On May 18, Mr. Chen had dinner with 16 prominent members of the Catholic clergy and several key officials and ambassadors of diplomatic allies, including Special Delegate of the Holy See to the Sovereign Military Order of Malta Cardinal Silvano Tomasi and Haitian Special Envoy and former Minister of Foreign Affairs Alrich Nicolas. 
     
    Since establishing diplomatic ties 83 years ago, Taiwan and the Holy See have enjoyed a profound diplomatic alliance and shared the core values of religious freedom, human rights, peace, and benevolence. The two sides will build on their existing friendship and solid foundation of cooperation in humanitarian assistance and other domains to further deepen bilateral relations and together make even greater contributions to the world. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOFA sincerely appreciates international support for Taiwan’s bid to participate in WHO and WHA

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    May 19, 2025  
    No. 163  

    The 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) is opening in Geneva on May 19. Following proactive efforts by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and related overseas missions, Taiwan’s bid to participate in the WHA has received staunch and concrete support from the Group of Seven (G7), the executive and legislative branches of government of more than 50 countries, the European Union, the European Parliament, and representative offices of like-minded nations in Taiwan. MOFA expresses sincere appreciation for this support.
     
    Eleven of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies, as members of the World Health Organization (WHO), submitted a proposal to the WHO Secretariat to invite Taiwan to participate in the WHA as an observer, requesting that the proposal be included as a supplementary item on this year’s WHA agenda. Saint Lucia Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre personally wrote a letter urging WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus to invite Taiwan to attend the WHA. The parliaments of Guatemala, Palau, and Saint Christopher and Nevis adopted resolutions backing Taiwan.
     
    The magnitude of support for Taiwan from like-minded countries has continued to grow. The current US administration has publicly endorsed Taiwan’s international participation more than 10 times. This includes a joint statement issued at the US-Japan leaders’ summit by President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba in February, which for the first time contained text advocating Taiwan’s meaningful involvement in international organizations. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed firm US support for Taiwan’s international participation during his congressional confirmation hearing as well as in interviews and joint statements issued at two meetings with the foreign ministers of Japan and the Republic of Korea. The United States twice spoke up for Taiwan at the WHO Executive Board session held in February. In April, it publicly refuted China’s misuse of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution 2758 at the UN Security Council for the first time, reiterating that the resolution did not preclude Taiwan’s participation in the UN system or other multilateral fora. In terms of US congressional support, the House of Representatives passed the Taiwan International Solidarity Act without opposition on May 5. The act urged the US government to resist China’s efforts to suppress Taiwan through mischaracterization of UNGA Resolution 2758. In addition, nine US state legislatures approved resolutions backing Taiwan’s involvement in international organizations.
     
    Furthermore, in a joint statement issued following a meeting in March, the G7 foreign ministers reaffirmed support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations. On May 15, the European Union expressed a similar stance and recognized the extraordinary contributions Taiwan can make through its digital healthcare capabilities. In February, the European Parliament overwhelmingly adopted a resolution on the implementation of the EU Common Foreign and Security Policy, which backed Taiwan’s meaningful participation in relevant world bodies. 
    High-ranking European officials who publicly spoke up for Taiwan included Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani, Irish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Simon Harris, Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong, Swedish Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard, and Swedish Minister for Social Affairs and Public Health Jakob Forssmed. A total of 534 members of the European Parliament and 29 national parliaments across Europe cosigned a letter of the Formosa Club reaffirming support for Taiwan. The World Medical Association and other professional groups endorsed Taiwan’s participation in WHO and the WHA as they had done in the past.
     
    MOFA thanks the representative offices in Taiwan of the United Kingdom, France, Australia, Canada, the Czech Republic, Germany, Japan, and Lithuania for issuing a joint statement for the fifth year prior to the WHA affirming the immense benefits that Taiwan could bring to WHA discussions. The statement also emphasized that there was no legitimate reason for Taiwan’s exclusion from the WHA and that Taiwan’s absence would undermine the spirit of inclusive global public health cooperation and safety that WHO’s founding documents called for.
     
    MOFA points out that these positive developments fully demonstrate that China’s unreasonable obstruction of Taiwan’s participation in WHO has gained little traction or support among nations worldwide. MOFA reiterates that UNGA Resolution 2758 and WHA Resolution 25.1 make no mention of Taiwan, have nothing to do with Taiwan, and therefore cannot be cited as a legal basis for precluding Taiwan from participating in WHO or other international organizations or multilateral mechanisms or fora. MOFA asks that the WHO Secretariat listen closely to member countries, stop further condoning political manipulation by China, and instead work to realize WHO’s goals of “Leaving No One Behind” and “One World for Health” so as to fulfill its responsibility to maintain and improve the health and well-being of all people. MOFA also asks that Taiwan be allowed full and unobstructed participation in all WHO meetings, mechanisms, and activities, including the WHA. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Foreign Minister Lin hosts welcome luncheon to mark state visit by Palauan President Whipps

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    May 20, 2025  
    No. 167  

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung hosted a luncheon on May 20 to mark a state visit by President Surangel Whipps, Jr. of the Republic of Palau. During the luncheon, Minister Lin conveyed a warm welcome on behalf of the government of Taiwan and thanked Palau for its staunch support for Taiwan’s international participation. He said he expected Taiwan and Palau to continue their close cooperation and together promote sustainable development across a range of areas in both nations.
     
    In his remarks, Minister Lin explained that since taking office, he had launched a strategy of integrated diplomacy to serve as Taiwan’s primary focus for foreign affairs, adding that its three pillars of values-based diplomacy, alliance diplomacy, and economic and trade diplomacy were advancing the promotion of the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project in Palau. He also noted that, in addition to personally leading an industrial delegation to Palau in January, several business delegations had visited Palau on information-gathering missions, and that in March President Whipps had appointed Taiwanese business leader Stan Shih to serve as a senior economic advisor to Palau. Minister Lin said that these activities had laid a successful foundation for using public-private partnerships as a cooperative model through which to promote the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project.
     
    In his remarks, President Whipps thanked the government of Taiwan and Minister Lin for their gracious reception. Observing that he had already made several trips to Taiwan, President Whipps said that visiting once again felt just like experiencing the warmth of home. Likening the 26-year ties between Taiwan and Palau to a marriage, he said that the nations’ sincere friendship was based on such shared values as freedom and democracy, a common Austronesian culture, and mutual support and prosperity.
     
    President Whipps also reiterated his heartfelt gratitude for Taiwan’s assistance toward national development in Palau, adding that Taiwan’s status as one of the world’s leading producers of semiconductors and other technologies was a reflection of its successful education system and outstanding industrial development. Remarking that President Lai Ching-te’s visit to Palau in December 2024 had established a robust foundation for a new era of Taiwan-Palau collaboration, he said he hoped the two nations would continue to use public-private partnerships to engage in close cooperation on sustainable tourism, green energy, smart medicine and healthcare, education and training, and food security, together creating a vision of economic prosperity for both countries.
     
    Among others attendees at today’s luncheon were Cheng Shih-chung, Director-General of the Ministry of Education’s Sports Administration; Professor Wang Ying-chou, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Fu Jen Catholic University; Liao Song-yie, Chairman of COTA Commercial Bank; and Liu Qing-ling, Chairperson of Chuan Cheng Hat Co., Ltd. Amid a warm and cordial environment, guests and the members of the Palauan delegation engaged in in-depth exchanges regarding various aspects of Taiwan-Palau cooperation. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pushing Boundaries and Becoming Beacons for Positive Change

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    The Academy of Distinguished Engineers, class of 2025, gathered for this year’s induction ceremony last week on the UConn Storrs campus. The annual event featured comments from JC Zhao, dean of the College of Engineering (CoE), and was emceed by 2024 inductees Rashi Akki, and Mark Raymond. Attendees included new Academy inductees and GOLD Rising Star recipients, their friends and family, as well as past Academy members.

    Zhao praised the class of 2025 for its accomplishments and contributions to engineering research, leadership and societal impact.

    “This was my first Academy of Distinguished Engineers awards ceremony since becoming dean of the College of Engineering,” Zhao says. “I take great pride in recognizing and celebrating the amazing achievements of our Academy inductees and Rising Stars.  It was also a pleasure meeting these CoE graduates, their families and the previous awardees who joined us.

    Dean JC Zhao (left) and He Li, Academy 2025 GOLD Rising Star (Christopher LaRosa/UConn Photo)

    “These highly accomplished men and women are a testament to the overall quality of education we offer here at UConn, as well as recognition for the many CoE faculty and mentors who helped guide them. We are proud of their achievements and look forward to hearing about their continued successes and their positive impact on our society.”

    Induction into the Academy recognizes CoE alumni for their exemplary contributions to the engineering profession through research, practice, education, policy or service, says Kylene Perras, assistant dean, Operations and Strategic Initiatives. The GOLD (Graduates of the Last Decade) Rising Star awards recognize graduates over the past decade who inspire the world around them through their contributions to engineering and society.

    “The Academy’s members are considered to be among the most successful and distinguished engineers in their respective fields,” Perras adds. “They each represent UConn Engineering, with distinction and strong leadership, and inspire current and future CoE students. And while they may not have been in the field for as many years, our Rising Stars also are making their mark and cutting successful professional trails.”

    Academy inductee Erika Lindeberg (Christopher LaRosa/UConn Photo)

    One of this year’s inductees, Erika Lindeberg, earned her B.S. and M.S. degrees in civil engineering at UConn. She is a senior project manager and group leader at Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc., a global leader in advanced manufacturing, energy, environmental, life sciences, transportation and more. Prior to joining Jacobs, she worked for the Connecticut Department of Transportation, including five years spent as principal engineer in their Division of Traffic Engineering.

    “Both of my parents are UConn alumni and taught me the importance of mentoring and of working for the common good,” Lindeberg says. “As engineers, we have a profound responsibility to ensure that the effective application of engineering and science serve a higher purpose and improve the comfort and safety of human life. To that end, sharing our knowledge, which includes mentoring others, is a critical responsibility and obligation.”

    JC Zhao (left) and Academy inductee Nasir Mannan (Christopher LaRosa/UConn Photo)

    Another inductee, Nasir Mannan, earned his B.S. degree in mechanical engineering in 2007 at the then School of Engineering at UConn. Mannan is the principal engineer at the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology’s Advanced Design Automation and Metrology lab, where he leads the integration of 4.0 technologies to help strengthen the U.S. supply chain. Like Lindberg, he shared similar sentiments about the need to help others and to become beacons for positive change.

    “In addition to building things, we create, innovate, discover and connect. All society is one human race, and the work we’re doing can push the boundaries of what’s possible, as well as what’s needed,” Mannan says. “I’m grateful for this recognition, and excited about the future and the opportunities we share to greatly improve the quality of life on earth for all beings through the technology we create and help implement as engineers.”

    This year’s inductees are:

    • James Bosse: B.S., M.S., and Ph.D., Materials Science and Engineering, University of Connecticut (’09, ’12, ’14)
    • Marat Kulakhmetov: B.S., Mechanical Engineering, University of Connecticut (’09), M.S. and Ph.D., Aeronautics and Astronautics, Purdue University (’11, ’16)
    • Michael Lamont: B.S., Civil Engineering, University of Connecticut (’91)
    • John Leonard: B.S., Mechanical Engineering, University of Connecticut (’89), M.S., Mechanical Engineering, Arizona State University (’94)
    • Erika Lindeberg: B.S. and M.S., Civil Engineering, University of Connecticut (’94, ’04)
    • Nasir Mannan: B.S., Mechanical Engineering, University of Connecticut (’07)
    • Steven Naboicheck: B.S., Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Connecticut (’81)
    • Frederick Sporck: B.S., Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Connecticut (’78), M.S., Physics, University of Vermont (’84)
    • Adrian Weidmann: B.S., Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Connecticut (‘02)
    • Peyman Zamani: B.S., Computer Science and Engineering, Master of Business Administration, University of Connecticut (’95, ’06)

    This year, the GOLD (Graduates of the Last Decade) Rising Star recipients are: 

    • Yongduk Lee: B.S., M.S., Hankyong National University (’06, ’08), Ph.D., Electrical Engineering, University of Connecticut (’15) 
    • He Li: B.S., Beijing University of Technology (’05), M.S., University of Saskatchewan (’08), Ph.D., Mechanical Engineering, University of Connecticut (’15) 
    • Qin Lu: B.S., University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (’13), Ph.D., Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Connecticut (’18) 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Rubio on U.S. Foreign Aid Reforms, China

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    “We still will provide more foreign aid, more humanitarian support than the next 10 countries combined. Than the entire OECD and far more than China. ” — Secretary of State Marco Rubio to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on May 20, 2025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_O-KJyDpalk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Afreximbank reports strong performance for Q1 2025 in line with expectations

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    Afreximbank reports strong performance for Q1 2025 in line with expectations The Group posted strong Net Income of US$215 million, a 21% increase year-on-year from US$178 million in the prior period CAIRO, Egypt, May 21, 2025/APO Group/ — African Export-Import Bank (“Afreximbank” or the “Group”) (www.Afreximbank.com) has released the consolidated financial statements of the Bank and its subsidiaries for the three months ended 31 March 2025. Financial Highlights Afreximbank Group delivered satisfactory financial performance for the first quarter of 2025, meeting expectations with solid profitability, strengthened liquidity and a resilient capital base. This performance provides a springboard for the Bank to continue playing its pivotal role of advancing the aspirations of Africa and the Caribbean for economic transformation and sustainable development in the months and years ahead. Net interest income grew by 4.53% to US$411.2 million compared to prior year, driven by growth in interest earning assets, complemented by effective management of borrowing costs, helping the Bank to cushion the marginal decline in total interest income due to softening benchmark rates. Fee income from Guarantees and Letters of Credit saw robust growth of 47% and 36% respectively, partially offsetting lower advisory fees to contribute to total unfunded income of US$26.9 million for Q1-2025. While this represented a 7.41% decrease from US$29.0 million in Q1 2024, the strong performance in Off-balance sheet assets is in line with the Bank’s strategy to grow unfunded business. The Group posted strong Net Income of US$215 million, a 21% increase year-on-year from US$178 million in the prior period. The Group’s total assets and contingent liabilities increased by 6.4%, reaching US$42.7 billion as of 31 March 2025, up from US$40.1 billion at FY’2024. On-balance sheet assets grew by 4.85% to US$37.0 billion, driven primarily by a 58% surge in cash balances to US$7.4 billion, while Off-balance sheet assets i.e. letters of credit and guarantee volumes increased by a 19% to reach US$5.7 billion at the end of Q1-2025. Net loans and advances closed Q1-2025 at US$27.8 billion, down from the FY2024 closing position reflecting early repayments from certain customers on account of improved foreign currency balances position of some sovereign borrowers. Importantly, the Loan Asset Quality remained strong, with the Non-Performing Loans (NPL) ratio at 2.44%, a modest increase from 2.33% at FY’2024 – well below the Bank’s strategic NPL ceiling of 4%. Driven by inflationary pressures and growing personnel costs, operating expenses rose by 23% to reach US$75.4 million by 31 March 2025. Despite this, Afreximbank Group maintained a healthy Cost-to-Income Ratio of 16%, below its strategic range of 17-30%. Afreximbank’s liquidity profile strengthened considerably, with liquid assets now comprising 20% of total assets, up from 13% at the close of FY’2024. This higher liquidity position was as a result of successful fund-raising, coupled with loan repayments received during the quarter. Shareholders’ funds increased by 3.4%, reaching US$7.5 billion, driven by strong internally generated capital of US$215.4 million in addition to new equity investments under the second General Capital Increase (GCI II) programme. Operating Highlights In line with the Afreximbank strategic objective of driving Industrialisation and export development, the Bank and the Government of Kenya ratified a number of initiatives designed to support the development Industrial Parks (IPs) and Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Kenya under the US$3 billion Kenya country programme. These projects which include Dongo Kundu Industrial Park in Mombasa and Naivasha SEZ II in Mai Mahiu, are key components of Kenya’s Vision 2030 plan to boost export manufacturing and industrialisation. Afreximbank’s support for these initiatives will specifically enhance infrastructure development, attract investment, and strategically position Kenya as a key hub for African and global commerce. The rollout of the Pan-African Payments and Settlement System (PAPSS) continues to gain momentum with KCB Group in Kenya and Bank of Kigali in Rwanda launching the platform, becoming the first banks in their respective countries to offer seamless, instant, and affordable cross-border payments in local currencies across Africa. Aligned with its mandate to promote Global Africa following the recognition of the African Diaspora as the 6th region of Africa, the Bank further cemented its expansion and presence in the Caribbean with the historic groundbreaking ceremony to kick off the construction of the first ever Afreximbank African Trade Centre (AATC) outside of Africa in Bridgetown, Barbados. AATC Barbados will also host its regional office. The Barbados AATC is an authentic icon of trade embodying the ambition, resilience, and influence of leading commercial cities in Africa and the Caribbean that serve as dynamic focal points for commerce, fostering regional and global trade connections, and is expected to enhance intra-and extra-African trade, with a focus on countries of the Global South. Mr. Denys Denya, Afreximbank’s Senior Executive Vice President, commented: “Our QI 2025 results, which were in line with expectations, reflected a strong and resilient financial performance, notwithstanding continued macroeconomic challenges. With solid profitability growth, a strengthened liquidity position, and a well-capitalised balance sheet, the Group is firmly positioned to continue playing a pivotal role in advancing the aspirations of Africa and the Caribbean for economic transformation and sustainable development.” Highlights of the results for the Group are shown below:

    Income statement Financial Metrics

    Q1-2025

    Q1-2024
    Gross Income (US$ million)

    784.9

    753.8
    Operating Income (US$ million)

    474.2

    423.5
    Net Income (US$ million)

    215.4

    178.7
    Return on average assets (ROAA)

                2.38%

    2.19%
    Return on average equity (ROAE)

    12%

    12%
    Cost-to-income ratio

    16%

    15%
    Balance sheet financial metrics

    Q1-2025

    FY-2024
    Total Assets (US$ billion)

    37.0

    35.3
    Total Liabilities (US$ billion)

    29.5

    28.1
    Shareholders’ Funds (US$ billion)

    7.5

    7.2
    Net asset value per share (US$)

    71,671

    69,695
    Non-performing loans ratio (NPL)

    2.44%

    2.33%
    Cash/Total assets

    20%

    13%
    Capital Adequacy ratio (Basel II)

    26%

    24%

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank. Media Contact: Vincent Musumba Communications and Events Manager (Media Relations) Email: press@afreximbank.com Follow us on: X: https://apo-opa.co/43pfUK5  Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/43uKQbW  LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4jhrbSL  Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/43DKyk2 About Afreximbank: African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2024, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa1), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt. For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com Forward-Looking Statements: The Bank makes written and/or oral forward-looking statements, as shown in this presentation and in other communications, from time to time. Likewise, officers of the Bank may make forward-looking statements either in writing or during verbal conversations with investors, analysts, the media, and other key members of the investment community. Statements regarding the Bank’s strategies, objectives, priorities, and anticipated financial performance for the year, constitute forward-looking statements. They are often described with words like “should”, “would”, “may”, “could”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “project”, “intend”, and “believe”. By their very nature, these statements require the Bank to make assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties, especially uncertainties related to the financial, economic, regulatory, and social environment within which the Bank operates. Some of these risks are beyond the control of the Bank and may make actual results that are obtained to vary materially from the expectations inferred from the forward-looking statements. Risk factors that could cause such differences include regulatory pronouncements, credit, market (including equity, commodity, foreign exchange, and interest rate), liquidity, operational, reputational, insurance, strategic, legal, environmental, and other known and unknown risks. As a result, when making decisions with respect to the Bank, we recommend that readers apply further assessment and should not unduly rely on the Bank’s forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement contained in this presentation represents the views of management only as of the date hereof and they are presented for the purpose of assisting the Bank’s investors and analysts to understand the Bank’s financial position, strategies, objectives, priorities, anticipated financial performance in relation to the current period, and, as such, may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Bank does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or verbal, that may be made from time to time, by it or on its behalf, except as required under applicable relevant regulatory provisions or requirements.

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “We attach great importance to the development of sales in the Chinese market” — Director of the Baltika-Khabarovsk branch R. Degtyarev

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    Khabarovsk, May 21 /Xinhua/ — “We attach great importance to developing sales in the Chinese market; since 2011, the bulk of Baltika deliveries to China have been carried out from the plant in Khabarovsk. During this time, exports from Khabarovsk Krai to China have increased 15-fold,” said Roman Degtyarev, director of the Baltika-Khabarovsk branch (a branch of the Russian brewing company Baltika in Khabarovsk), in his speech at the session “Agroexport: How to Sell in China,” held on May 19 as part of the Russian-Chinese Forum.

    R. Degtyarev told the forum participants about the company’s successful experience in entering the Chinese market. “We have been long-standing partners with China: regular export of Baltika has been carried out here since 2001, and during this time, deliveries have increased dozens of times.”

    According to him, in order to expand Baltika’s presence in the Chinese market and certify the quality of its products, the company underwent voluntary certification “Made in Russia”. A network of representative offices was deployed in the country and abroad, including in the Chinese cities of Beijing and Harbin. Taking into account the preferences of Chinese consumers, in 2024 the company released the Baltika Bolshoy Medved brand specifically for the Chinese market.

    The Baltika-Khabarovsk enterprise, launched in April 2003, is the largest producer of beer and soft drinks in the Khabarovsk Territory. The annual capacity of the plant currently amounts to 230 million liters. The bulk of deliveries to the countries of the Asia-Pacific region comes from China.

    On May 19, a two-day Russian-Chinese forum dedicated to cooperation between the two countries opened in Khabarovsk. More than 3,000 applications were received from representatives of business, government bodies, and creative industries of Russia and China to participate in the forum. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese, ASEAN ministers call for expanded bilateral trade and economic cooperation

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, May 21 (Xinhua) — The ministers of economy and trade of China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have called for deepening bilateral economic and trade cooperation to counter negative uncertainties. The call was made at a special meeting of China-ASEAN ministers of economy and trade held via video link on Tuesday.

    As Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao noted during the meeting, China is willing to work with ASEAN to maintain the stable and smooth operation of global industrial and supply chains, make greater contributions to promoting the development and rise of both sides, and safeguarding international fairness and justice.

    Wang Wentao recalled that recently some economies have been abusing so-called “mirror duties” and engaging in economic bullying, which has seriously undermined the international trade system and introduced a high degree of uncertainty into the global economy. Such practices do not comply with economic rules and violate market principles, the head of the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China stated.

    During the meeting, the ministers called for collective action to defend the multilateral trading system and free trade, as well as for the effective use of the World Trade Organization mechanisms to establish constructive contacts, find joint solutions and address concerns in global trade.

    ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Horn said all parties should cooperate with a forward-looking approach, firmly uphold openness and inclusiveness, and continuously promote regional economic integration.

    He expressed hope that ASEAN and China can deepen their partnership, achieve high-quality common development, promote cooperation in areas such as smart manufacturing, and strengthen connectivity and green transformation.

    Following the meeting, a joint statement was issued reaffirming China and ASEAN’s position on economic exchanges and challenges to the global economy.

    China and 10 ASEAN countries have completed negotiations to upgrade the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area to version 3.0, the Ministry of Commerce said on Wednesday. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Padilla, Colleagues Highlight Consequences of Senate Republicans’ Attempt to Abuse the CRA and Revoke California’s Clean Air Act Waivers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    ICYMI: Padilla, Colleagues Highlight Consequences of Senate Republicans’ Attempt to Abuse the CRA and Revoke California’s Clean Air Act Waivers

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration and a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, highlighted the growing opposition to Republicans’ shortsighted attempts to rescind California’s clean air waivers by going nuclear on the rules and overruling the nonpartisan Senate Parliamentarian’s decision. Senator Padilla, U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), and U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, held the floor yesterday after Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) said that he would move forward this week with a cynical attempt to rescind California’s Clean Air Act waivers with a 50-vote threshold under the Congressional Review Act (CRA), bypassing the filibuster and its 60-vote requirement by overruling the Senate Parliamentarian.

    Senators Padilla, Schumer, Whitehouse, Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), and Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) all came out strongly against this reckless effort.

    In a joint statement, Padilla, Schumer, and Whitehouse condemned the attacks on California’s Clean Air Act waivers:

    Padilla, Schumer, Whitehouse Joint Statement Warning Senate Republicans Against Overruling Parliamentarian On Clean Air Act Waivers

    “Let us be abundantly clear: if Republicans throw away the rulebook and overrule the Parliamentarian, that would be going nuclear — plain and simple. This move will harm public health and deteriorate air quality for millions of children and people across the country.  

    “Republicans are overruling a thirty-year tradition of state policies that bolstered a new sector of the economy, helped domestic automakers fend off China’s manufacturing dominance, improved the quality of the air we breathe, reduced planet-warming carbon pollution, and protected the health of American families.  Instead of negotiating changes with the states involved, the fossil fuel industry deployed its political operatives in Congress to go nuclear for them.

    “If the Trump Administration’s scheme to weaponize the CRA goes forward, the executive branch will control the Senate Floor. Senate Republicans are doing an about face on the filibuster — throwing it aside the first moment it’s convenient and the Senate Floor will not be the same.”

    Last night, Padilla, Schumer, and Whitehouse took to the Senate Floor to ask a series of parliamentary inquiries on Senate Republicans’ intention to go nuclear on the California waiver CRAs. Senate Democrats confirmed — on the congressional record — that the Republicans’ plan to move forward would be against the Parliamentarian’s guidance, and thus, the very definition of eliminating the filibuster and going nuclear. The Senators’ remarks and the Presiding Officer’s responses on behalf of the Senate Parliamentarian can be viewed here, and a transcript of the remarks is available here. 

    Senator Martin Heinrich, Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, issued a statement emphasizing that once Republicans embrace this significant reversal of precedent and attempt to overturn California’s Clean Air Act waivers, a future Democratic Administration could try to reverse Republicans’ oil and gas priorities, including liquified natural gas (LNG) export terminals.

    Heinrich Statement Blasting Senate Republicans’ Plans to Defy the Senate Parliamentarian & Force a Vote to Overturn California’s Clean Energy Air Act Waivers

    “If Senate Republicans force a vote on the California Clean Air Act Waivers, they set a precedent that will allow Congress to overturn nearly any agency decision nationwide. I urge my colleagues to reject this gross overreach. If they don’t, Congressional Review Act resolutions will quickly hijack the Senate floor to retroactively invalidate agency permits, adjudications, and licensing decisions – actions that were never previously considered ‘rules.’

    “We need a reliable energy permitting and approval system if we are going to meet our growing energy needs. But under Republicans’ proposal, Congress could invalidate permits for new oil and gas wells, established rights of way for transmission lines, and approvals of new LNG export terminals. That includes the Department of Energy’s recent approval of Commonwealth LNG’s application to export liquified natural gas. If not challenged immediately, a future administration could also submit Commonwealth’s authorization as a rule retroactively and halt the project years after it has begun construction.

    “By opening this door, Republicans threaten to destroy our permitting and regulatory system, leading to higher energy costs for Americans and making it impossible for new developments to come online. Indeed, nearly every major and minor project the federal government touches could be stalled, creating significant uncertainty if not complete chaos. That is not what the American people want, and it cannot be what Senate Republicans want, either.”

    Senator Wyden, Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee, warned Republicans against overruling the Senate Parliamentarian and abusing the Congressional Review Act to meddle with California’s clean air policies. He said the Republican plan would backfire if they follow through.

    Wyden Warns Republicans that Overruling Parliamentarian to Nix California Clean Air Waiver Will Backfire

    “Republicans should think twice before moving ahead with this unprecedented overreach. If they invoke this nuclear option now, they should expect that a future Democratic government will have to revisit decades worth of paltry corporate settlements, deferred prosecution agreements, and tax rulings that were overly favorable to multinationals and ultra-wealthy individuals. That would only be the beginning. These partisan actions cut both ways.”

    Senator Schiff delivered remarks on the Senate floor urging Senate Republicans to consider the implications their decision to throw out the Senate Parliamentarian’s ruling will have on their states if they use the CRA against California’s waivers. 

    WATCH: Sen. Schiff Slams Senate Republicans’ Attempts to Go Nuclear on California’s Clean Air Waivers on the Senate Floor

    “I urge my colleagues, and the American people, not be distracted by suggestions that nothing is going on here, nothing new is going on here, no precedent is being set here. Because it is.”

    “This week’s vote is short-sighted because it’s going to have devastating impacts for our nation’s health, but it’s more than that. And it should send a chill down the spine of legislators in every state and communities across the country, regardless of their political affiliation because the Senate is now setting a new standard, and one that will haunt us in the future. And it will haunt those states whose Senators vote to go down this path. Make no mistake. Today, it is California and our ability to set our own air quality standards. 

    “But tomorrow, it can be your own state’s priorities made into a target by this vote to open the Pandora’s Box of the Congressional Review Act.”

    Senator Markey criticized Republicans’ attempt to change the Senate rules to overturn California’s waivers, both because it reverses California’s clean air progress and because it violates longstanding Senate rules.

    As Senate Republicans Consider Procedural Power Grab, Markey Highlights Seriousness of the Moment

    “At a moment when Donald Trump is actively undermining the checks and balances enshrined in our Constitution, Senate Republicans are moving ahead with a dangerous change to Senate rules while rolling back clean air regulations. 

    “It’s not enough for Republicans to promote chaos and conflict in our economy for the sake of billionaires, they now want to create chaos and conflict in Congress by intentionally trashing guardrails and decisions that protect all members. They don’t care about the rule of law, and they don’t seem to care about the rule of Congress. With this action, Senate Republicans are opening the door for future votes on the countless unlawful and unethical actions carried out by the Trump administration. There will be no putting the genie back in the bottle.”

    Senator Padilla has been outspoken in pushing back against Republican attacks on California’s Clean Air Act waivers. Yesterday, Padilla placed a hold on the four pending EPA nominees until Republicans stop their reckless attempts to overrule the Senate Parliamentarian. Earlier this month, Senators Padilla, Schiff, and Whitehouse took to the Senate floor to sound the alarm on Senate Republicans’ consideration of moving forward with their plan to revoke California’s Clean Air Act waivers. Padilla, Whitehouse, and Schumer also led Democratic Ranking Members in strongly warning Majority Leader Thune and Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) of the dangerous and irreparable consequences if Senate Republicans overrule the Senate Parliamentarian’s decision on California’s waivers.

    Last month, Senators Padilla, Whitehouse, and Schiff welcomed the Senate Parliamentarian’s decision that the waivers are not subject to the CRA. Padilla also joined Whitehouse and Schiff in blasting Trump and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin’s weaponization of the EPA after the Government Accountability Office’s (GAO) similar finding. Padilla and Schiff previously slammed the Trump Administration’s intent to roll back dozens of the EPA’s regulations that protect California’s air and water.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Work on a memorandum on a future peace treaty between Russia and Ukraine is proceeding dynamically – press secretary of the Russian president

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    Moscow, May 21 /Xinhua/ — Work on a memorandum on a future peace treaty between Russia and Ukraine is proceeding dynamically, and no one is interested in delaying the process, Russian presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov said at a briefing on Wednesday.

    “Nobody is interested in delaying the process; everyone is working dynamically,” TASS quotes him as saying.

    The Kremlin representative emphasized that most of this work is being conducted in a discrete mode and should not be “open to the public for obvious reasons.” D. Peskov promised to inform about the progress of the document’s preparation.

    Russian President Vladimir Putin previously stated that Moscow is ready to work with Kiev on a memorandum on a future peace treaty, which could also include issues of a ceasefire and principles for resolving the conflict. On May 19, he held a telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump, during which they discussed the resumption of direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: South Korea spent $222 billion on defense from 2021 to 2025, reveals GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    The rising tensions with North Korea, coupled with China’s increasing assertiveness, have necessitated South Korea to bolster its military capabilities and readiness. These strategic enhancements include investments in advanced weapons systems, military preparedness, and fortification of cybersecurity infrastructure. In light of these developments, the country has allocated $222 billion for the period from 2021 to 2025, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s latest report, “South Korea Defense Market Size and Trends, Budget Allocation, Regulations, Key Acquisitions, Competitive Landscape and Forecast, 2025–30,” reveals that as part of its modernization drive, the country has undertaken significant acquisitions, including the KF-21 Boramae Multirole Aircraft, the K239 Chunmoo Multiple Rocket Launch System, and the K9 Self-Propelled Artillery Systems. Notably, all these military platforms are indigenously manufactured.

    Akash Pratim Debbarma, Aerospace & Defense Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Over the years, South Korea has successfully diminished its reliance on imports and enhanced the capabilities of its armed forces through the indigenous development of several advanced military systems. The country’s allocation of funds toward acquisition and research, development, testing, and evaluation (RDT&E) underscores its commitment to addressing the evolving security challenges within the region.”

    The successful flight of the KF-21 prototype by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) in 2022 marks a significant stride toward self-reliance in combat aircraft production. While the induction of the KF-21 is slated for 2028, it is expected to considerably enhance South Korea’s aerial combat capabilities with advanced onboard avionics and near-stealth performance.

    Debbarma concludes: “As North Korea continues its nuclear-capable missile tests, South Korea remains steadfast in enhancing its deterrence strategies, bolstering its air, naval, and missile defense capabilities. However, South Korea is still mainly dependent on the 28,500 US troops to maintain a credible deterrence against potential hostilities from North Korea.

    “With looming uncertainties about the continuance of its reliance on US support following Trump’s return to office, South Korea will likely redirect most of its defense budgets into indigenization efforts. While supporting its armed forces, South Korea will also try to achieve economy of scale to keep the cost down for its domestic defense systems by exporting them to its allies worldwide.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: APAC deal activity down by 2.6% YoY during January-April 2025, finds GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    APAC deal activity down by 2.6% YoY during January-April 2025, finds GlobalData

    Posted in Business Fundamentals

    The overall deal activity (comprising mergers & acquisitions (M&A), private equity, and venture financing deals) in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region has experienced a slight contraction in early 2025. Primarily driven by a downturn in venture financing activities, the total number of deals announced in the APAC region fell by 2.6% during January-April 2025 compared to the same period in the previous year, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    An analysis of GlobalData’s Deals Database revealed that the total number of venture capital (VC) deals announced in the APAC region registered a year-on-year (YoY) decline of 8.2% in the first four months of 2025.

    Conversely, M&A and private equity transactions have remained stable. The number of M&A deals in the region increased by 2.4% during January-April 2025 compared to January-April 2024, whereas private equity deals volume was also up by around 2% YoY during the same period.

    Aurojyoti Bose, Lead Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The APAC deal landscape is showcasing a mixed trend characterized by a blend of resilience in M&A and private equity, juxtaposed with a fall in VC funding activity. This mixed trend reflects the intricate economic dynamics at play across the region, with varying performances across key markets.”

    The performance of key markets within the APAC region reveals significant disparities. China, the top APAC market in deal-making, has experienced a decline in deal volume of more than 15% during January-April 2025 compared to the first four months of 2024. In contrast, India and Japan have seen an uptick in deal activity, with a YoY growth rate of around 13% and 25%, respectively. Meanwhile, other key APAC markets, including Australia, South Korea and Singapore, also showcased signs of contraction in deal activity.

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

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: US VC funding more than doubles to $89 billion YoY during January-April 2025, finds GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    US VC funding more than doubles to $89 billion YoY during January-April 2025, finds GlobalData

    Posted in Business Fundamentals

    The venture capital (VC) landscape in the US has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth in funding value in early 2025, despite a slight decline in deal volume. Between January and April 2025, the US recorded a modest decrease of around 4% in VC deal volume compared to the same period in 2024. Despite the fall in volume, the total funding value of these deals more than doubled to reach $89 billion during January-April 2025, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    An analysis of GlobalData’s Deals Database revealed that the total VC funding value in the US was up by a massive year-on-year (YoY) growth of 151% during January-April 2025.

    Aurojyoti Bose, Lead Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Despite the dip in deal volume, the surge in deal value indicates a strong appetite for larger investments in the US market. And this trend is likely to continue as investors seek to capitalize on high-potential startups.”

    The US continues to account for a significant share of global VC funding, maintaining its position as the top market in terms of both deal volume and value. However, the dominance in terms of value has now become even more pronounced with the massive surge in funding value.

    The US accounted for around 30% of the total number of VC deals announced globally during January-April 2025, while its share of the corresponding value stood much higher at around 70% compared to around 45% during January-April 2024.

    In contrast, other major markets such as China and the UK experienced double-digit declines in deal volume. Moreover, China saw its VC funding value also register a staggering drop of around 50% YoY during January-April 2025. This trend highlights the US’ unique position as a resilient market, attracting big investments even as some other key markets face challenges.

    The US continues to attract big-ticket investments, particularly in the technology sector. Start-ups focusing on technology-driven solutions, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), are gaining significant investor traction.

    Some of the notable VC funding deals announced in the US during the first four months of 2025 include $40 billion secured by OpenAI, $3.5 billion raised by Anthropic, and $3 billion raised by Infinite Reality, among others.

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

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Works to Secure Medicine Supply Chain from China

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) joined her colleagues to introduce a bipartisan bill to improve federal coordination for essential medicine supply chains that could impact the healthcare system, helping our nation mitigate drug shortages and address future health emergencies.
    “Depending on China for critical pharmaceutical ingredients poses a national security threat,” said Ernst. “Through this bipartisan effort, we can identify essential medicines to strengthen the supply chain and reduce our reliance on our adversary. By taking action now, we can protect the health of our citizens in the future.”  
    The Mapping America’s Pharmaceutical Supply (MAPS) Act would direct the Department of Health and Human Services to:

    Map the U.S. pharmaceutical supply chain and find weaknesses,
    Help create a database of essential medicines, and
    Collect information about where these medicines and ingredients are made and their supply chain details, including reliance on China.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Macao sees nearly 19 pct year-on-year growth in visitor arrivals in April

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

    MACAO, May 21 — China’s Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) welcomed over 3.09 million visitors in April 2025, marking an 18.9 percent year-on-year increase, the SAR’s Statistics and Census Service (DSEC) said on Wednesday.

    Same-day visitors jumped by 30.1 percent to over 1.75 million, while overnight visitors rose 6.9 percent to nearly 1.34 million. However, the average length of stay slightly dropped to 1.1 days due to the higher share of same-day travelers.

    As regards the source of visitors, the Chinese mainland remained the largest source of visitors, contributing over 2.12 million arrivals, up 22.4 percent. Arrivals from China’s Hong Kong and China’s Taiwan also grew, up 13.4 percent and 4.4 percent respectively.

    International visitor numbers increased by 10.4 percent to 230,014, with strong gains from India (up 50 percent) and Southeast Asian markets like Thailand and the Philippines, while some declines were recorded from Singapore and Malaysia.

    The DSEC also noted that from January to April, total arrivals in the Macao SAR reached 12,955,456, up 12.9 percent year-on-year.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China releases plan to protect rivers, lakes

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

    BEIJING, May 21 — China has unveiled an action plan to protect and create beautiful rivers and lakes from 2025 to 2027, with a focus on improving the quality of aquatic ecosystems.

    The plan, jointly released by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment and other government organs on Wednesday, set the goals of achieving notable progress in creating beautiful rivers and lakes by 2030 and completing the initiative by 2035.

    The plan aims to promote targeted, science-based, and lawful pollution control, coordinate the management of water resources, aquatic environments, and water ecologies, and build an integrated ecological governance system across upstream and downstream areas in key river basins to improve the health of aquatic ecosystems.

    A total of 2,573 water bodies have been included in the national list for protecting and creating beautiful rivers and lakes, covering major river trunks, key tributaries, and important lakes and reservoirs with critical ecological functions, fragile environments, or significant public interest.

    The plan outlines 19 specific measures, focusing on consolidating and deepening water environment management, guaranteeing basic ecological water use, and comprehensively advancing protection and construction efforts.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to intensify financing support for small, micro firms

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

    BEIJING, May 21 — China will further step up financing support for small and micro enterprises by increasing financing supply, lowering financing costs, and enhancing the precision of supportive measures, according to a guideline issued Wednesday by eight departments.

    The document — jointly issued by the National Financial Regulatory Administration, the People’s Bank of China, the National Development and Reform Commission and other authorities, proposes 23 concrete measures to boost financing for small and micro firms.

    To increase financing supply for these companies, the country will strengthen the issuance of first-time loans, credit loans, medium- to long-term loans, corporate loans and loans to private enterprises, the guideline revealed.

    Financing support for small and micro firms in the agricultural sector will be strengthened by leveraging structural monetary tools including re-lending, the document said.

    China will also support small and micro enterprises in pursuing equity financing, the guideline stated.

    To reduce the financing costs of small and micro companies, the country will guide banks to determine their lending rates for such enterprises reasonably while lowering additional loan-related fees.

    China will also guide banks to improve their financing efficiency, streamline application materials and optimize approval procedures, said the document, while adding that more support will be channeled to science and technology-oriented, innovation-driven small and micro firms as well as those engaged in new business models regarding foreign trade.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Prestigious classical and jazz labels open dedicated China branches

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

    Deutsche Grammophon (DG) and Blue Note Records, two of the world’s most iconic classical and jazz labels, launched Chinese branches on May 15 as the country’s audience for these genres continues to expand.

    The labels will operate dedicated China imprints in collaboration with Universal Music Greater China, the companies said.

    Executives launch Deutsche Grammophon China in Shanghai, May 15, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Universal Music Group]

    “For decades, Deutsche Grammophon and Blue Note have held a special place in the hearts of Chinese classical and jazz musicians,” said Timothy Xu, chairman and CEO of Universal Music Greater China.

    “These labels have deeply influenced how local artists understand, study and create within these genres. Today marks a new beginning. For the first time, these two iconic brands are establishing dedicated labels in China to engage directly with local artists and communities.”

    The new labels will focus on discovering Chinese talent, developing original creative work and connecting local musicians with international audiences, according to company executives.

    Xu said DG China and Blue Note Records China “will be fully committed to discovering and supporting the next generation of talent emerging from China.”

    “Through these efforts, we hope to contribute to the growth and appreciation of classical and jazz music in China and to help bring the richness of Chinese musical expression into deeper dialogue with the world,” he said.

    “By combining the global heritage and artistic leadership of these two iconic labels with the market knowledge and cultural insight of our local team, we are creating a stronger platform to connect Chinese talent with global opportunities,” said Adam Granite, executive vice president for market development at Universal Music Group.

    Pianists Lang Lang and Yuja Wang, along with Shanghai Symphony Orchestra Music Director Yu Long, all longtime DG artists, will serve as artistic advisors to DG China, executives announced at the launch event.

    Lang Lang said in a video message that “Deutsche Grammophon has been my musical home for many years, and I’m thrilled to see the launch of DG China.”

    “I believe DG China will be a key platform for emerging Chinese musicians and help connect classical music with broader audiences,” he said. “I also hope it will bring more Chinese voices to the global stage, a mission I deeply believe in and am proud to support.”

    DG China will release its first album, “Bach: The Cello Suites,” performed by cellist Wang Jian on May 23, with plans to record all of Dmitri Shostakovich’s symphonies with the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra by 2029 to mark the orchestra’s 150th anniversary. Yu Long called it “also a powerful expression of the artistry and interpretive depth of Chinese musicians today.”

    Executives launch Blue Note Records China in Shanghai, May 15, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Universal Music Group]

    Blue Note Records China, a new division of the iconic jazz label known for artists like Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock, will focus on developing local talent while bringing Chinese jazz to international audiences, executives said.

    The label’s first signing is INNOUT, an avant-garde jazz duo composed of guitarist Xiao Jun and drummer An Yu. The duo combines jazz with electronic elements and experimental composition in a style that has gained recognition in China’s contemporary jazz scene.

    Don Was, president of Blue Note Records, said: “Xiao Jun and An Yu are two of the most talented and visionary musicians I’ve ever met. Their music is going to blow people’s minds all over the world. It’s a thrill and an honor to be able to launch Blue Note Records China with their music.”

    Blue Note Records China will also partner with JZ Music, a major player in China’s jazz scene, to develop live performance opportunities, including tours, festivals and venue events. The partnership aims to increase Chinese jazz visibility both locally and internationally.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: On CNN’s The Arena this Evening, Shaheen Reiterates that Putin is Playing Trump in Ukraine Negotiations, Slams Congressional Republicans’ Proposal to Slash Medicaid to Give Billionaires a Tax Break

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    Published: 05.21.2025

    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined CNN’s The Arena this evening to discuss her questioning of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio earlier in the day and her belief that Russian President Vladimir Putin is playing President Trump. She also sharply criticized Congressional Republicans’ budget proposal that would gut Medicaid and food assistance benefits to finance tax breaks for billionaires and special interest groups. The interview followed Secretary Rubio’s first testimony to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee since his confirmation hearing in January. Click HERE to watch Senator Shaheen’s interview. 
    Key Quotes from Senator Shaheen: 
    When asked if she feels Secretary Rubio and President Trump are being played by Putin, Shaheen said: “I do, absolutely. And I said that to Secretary Rubio and we heard it again, what the outcome of this phone call between President Trump and Vladimir Putin yesterday was that now Putin is going to bring in a sheet that outlines what they want to see, to end the war in Ukraine, to get them to the table. Well, he’s just playing for time because he thinks the longer he can delay that, we’re going to get disinterested, that we’re going to not want to continue to support Ukraine in this fight. But what he doesn’t understand is that the President and this administration says the biggest threat to America is China, and China and President Xi are watching what the outcome of this war in Ukraine is. And if we are not tough in Ukraine, if we are not tough on Putin, that he knows that we’re not going to be tough on him when he goes after Taiwan. And so that’s a real problem.” 
    On Republicans’ budget proposal, Shaheen said: “Well, it’s clear that the Republicans in the House care more about what Donald Trump thinks than they care about what their constituents think. Because constituents in most of this country don’t want to see massive cuts to the Medicaid program, health care that so many Americans rely on, whether it’s for nursing home care or for people with disabilities, people who get their health insurance through the Medicaid program.” 
    On Republicans threatening cuts to program like Medicaid and SNAP, Shaheen said: “And what they’re actually trying to do with those worker requirements and other changes is to reduce the number of people on Medicaid so they can save money and what they want to do, what they want to do with the money that they’re saving by cutting Medicaid, by cutting food benefits from the Snap program, is to provide a huge tax cut to the wealthiest Americans. 70% of the benefits from the tax cuts are going to go to the wealthiest 1% in this country.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: KraneShares Launches Strategic Wealth Model Portfolios — An Endowment-Style Approach to ETF Model Portfolios Emphasizing Alternatives and International Exposure

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Krane Funds Advisors, LLC (“KraneShares”), an asset management firm known for its global exchange-traded funds (ETFs), today announced the launch of the KraneShares Strategic Wealth Model Portfolios.

    These ETF model portfolios provide a comprehensive, global portfolio solution for financial advisors. They leverage the best of KraneShares’ and their leading asset management partners’ ETFs and market insights, emphasizing liquid alternatives and international exposure.

    “Over the years, we have developed a unique set of ETFs at KraneShares. The Strategic Wealth Models can help investors understand how our ETFs fit into a total portfolio solution,” said Jonathan Krane, KraneShares CEO. “Through combining KraneShares’ strategies and expertise with products and inputs from our partners, we are able to create ETF model portfolios across various risk ranges that are unique in the marketplace.”

    The KraneShares Strategic Wealth Model Portfolios expand global diversification compared to most model portfolio offerings and include 15-20% exposure to liquid alternatives, helping to protect the portfolio when traditional investments decline.

    “We see a shift coming in global markets,” added Jonathan Shelon. “After a decade of US equity outperformance and a dominant US dollar, more globally diversified and alternatives-oriented portfolios will be important for growing and maintaining wealth. We are helping our clients prepare for a shifting macro landscape with our Strategic Wealth Models.”

    The models currently include the following ETFs:

    • KraneShares Value Line Dynamic Dividend Equity ETF (Ticker: KVLE)
    • KraneShares MSCI Emerging Markets ex China Index ETF (Ticker: KEMX)
    • KraneShares CSI China Internet ETF (Ticker: KWEB)
    • KraneShares Hedgeye Hedged Equity Index ETF (Ticker: KSPY)
    • KraneShares Artificial Intelligence & Technology ETF (Ticker: AGIX)
    • iShares Core US Aggregate Bond ETF (Ticker: AGG)
    • iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF (Ticker: USHY)
    • Quadratic Interest Rate Volatility and Inflation Hedge ETF (Ticker: IVOL)
    • KraneShares Sustainable Ultra Short Duration Index ETF (Ticker: KCSH )
    • KraneShares Asia Pacific High Income USD Bond ETF (Ticker: KHYB)
    • KraneShares Mount Lucas Strategy ETF (Ticker: KMLM)
    • KraneShares Global Carbon Strategy ETF (Ticker: KRBN)
    • iShares Mortgage Real Estate Capped ETF (Ticker: REM)
    • KraneShares China Internet & Covered Call ETF (Ticker: KLIP)
    • KraneShares Man Buyout Beta Index ETF (Ticker: BUYO)
    • iShares S&P 500 Growth ETF (Ticker: IVW)
    • iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF (Ticker: IJR)
    • KraneShares Bosera MSCI China A 50 Connect Index ETF (Ticker: KBA)
    • iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (Ticker: ICLN)
    • iShares 3-7 Year Treasury Bond ETF (Ticker: IEI)

    For more information on the KraneShares Strategic Wealth Models, please visit portfolios.kraneshares.com/kraneshares-strategic-wealth-model-portfolios/ or consult your financial advisor.

    About KraneShares

    Krane Funds Advisors, LLC is the investment manager for KraneShares ETFs. Our team is determined to provide industry-leading, differentiated, and high-conviction investment strategies that offer access to key market trends. KraneShares offers innovative investment solutions tailored to three key pillars: China, Climate, and Alternatives. Our mission is to empower investors with the knowledge and tools necessary to capture the importance of these themes as an essential element of a well-designed investment portfolio.

    Contact:
    KraneShares Investor Relations
    info@kraneshares.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bilibili Inc. Announces Pricing of Upsized Offering of US$600 Million Convertible Senior Notes

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHANGHAI, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bilibili Inc. (“Bilibili” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BILI and HKEX: 9626), an iconic brand and a leading video community for young generations in China, today announced the pricing of its upsized offering (the “Notes Offering”) of US$600 million in aggregate principal amount of convertible senior notes due 2030 (the “Notes”). The Notes have been offered to persons reasonably believed to be qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). The Company has granted the initial purchasers in the Notes Offering an option to purchase up to an additional US$90 million principal amount of the Notes, exercisable for settlement within a 30-day period beginning on, and including, the date on which the Notes are first issued.

    The Company plans to use the net proceeds from the Notes Offering to enhance its content ecosystem to facilitate user growth, facilitate IP asset creation, and unleash its inherent potential. The Company also plans to use the net proceeds from the Notes Offering to improve its overall monetization efficiency, fund the Concurrent Repurchase (as defined below), fund future repurchases (from time to time) under its share repurchase program, and for other general corporate purposes.

    When issued, the Notes will be senior, unsecured obligations of the Company. The Notes will mature on June 1, 2030, unless repurchased, redeemed or converted in accordance with their terms prior to such date. Holders may convert their Notes at their option at any time prior to the close of business on the seventh scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity date. The initial conversion rate of the Notes is 42.1747 Class Z ordinary shares per US$1,000 principal amount of Notes (which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately HK$185.63 per Class Z ordinary share and represents a conversion premium of approximately 27.1% above the closing price HK$146.00 per Class Z ordinary share of the Company on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on May 21, 2025) and a premium of approximately 32.5% to the clearing share price of the Concurrent Delta Offering of HK$140.10 per Class Z ordinary share of the Company, and is subject to adjustment upon the occurrence of certain events described below. Upon conversion, subject to certain procedures and conditions set forth in the terms of the Notes, the Company will cause to be delivered the Company’s Class Z ordinary shares, par value US$0.0001 per share. Holders may elect to receive the Company’s American depositary shares (“ADS”), each representing one Class Z ordinary share, in lieu of Class Z ordinary shares deliverable upon conversion.

    The Company may redeem for cash all or any part of the Notes on or after June 6, 2028 if the last reported sale price of the Class Z ordinary shares has been at least 130% of the conversion price for the Notes then in effect for at least 20 trading days, whether or not consecutive, during any 30 consecutive trading day period preceding the date on which the Company provides notice of redemption (including the last trading day of such period) ending on, and including, the trading day immediately preceding the date on which the Company provides notice of redemption (the “Optional Redemption”). In addition, the Company may redeem for cash all but not part of the Notes at any time if less than 10% of the aggregate principal amount of Notes originally issued remains outstanding at such time (the “Cleanup Redemption”). The Company may also redeem the Notes upon the occurrence of certain tax-related events (the “Tax Redemption”). Holders of the Notes may require the Company to repurchase for cash all or part of their Notes in cash on June 1, 2028, or in the event of certain fundamental changes. In connection with certain corporate events or if the Company issues a notice of Optional Redemption, Cleanup Redemption or Tax Redemption, it will, under certain circumstances, increase the conversion rate for holders who elect to convert their Notes in connection with such corporate event or such Optional Redemption, Cleanup Redemption or Tax Redemption.

    The Notes will bear interest at a rate of 0.625% per year, payable semiannually in arrears on June 1 and December 1 of each year, beginning on December 1, 2025.

    The Company also announced the pricing of the previously announced concurrent offering of its 10,281,240 Class Z ordinary shares that are being borrowed from non-affiliate third parties and offered in a separate underwritten offering by Goldman Sachs (Asia) L.L.C. and Morgan Stanley Asia Limited (the “Underwriters” and the “Concurrent Delta Offering”, respectively), each acting severally on behalf of itself and/or its respective affiliates, at HK$140.10 per Class Z ordinary share. The Underwriters will use the resulting short position to facilitate hedging transactions by certain investors subscribing for the Notes, who employ a convertible arbitrage strategy (the “Convertible Arbitrage Investors”). The Company has been advised that each Underwriter is concurrently entering into off-market privately negotiated derivative transactions relating to the Class Z ordinary shares, enabling Convertible Arbitrage Investors to establish their initial short positions in the Class Z ordinary shares to hedge market risk in the Notes. The number of Class Z ordinary shares subject to the Concurrent Delta Offering generally corresponds to such initial short positions of the Convertible Arbitrage Investors. No new Class Z ordinary shares will be issued in the Concurrent Delta Offering. Any securities sold in the Concurrent Delta Offering are being offered and sold through a concurrent SEC-registered offering pursuant to a separate prospectus supplement and an accompanying base prospectus. The Company will not receive any proceeds from the Concurrent Delta Offering. The Notes Offering and the Concurrent Delta Offering are contingent upon each other.

    The Company will use part of the proceeds from the Notes Offering for the Concurrent Repurchase. The Concurrent Repurchase enables investors to establish some of their initial short positions in the Class Z ordinary shares to hedge market risk in the Notes and reflects the Company’s confidence in its long-term strategy and growth. The repurchased shares will be cancelled.

    Other Matters

    The Notes, the Class Z ordinary shares deliverable upon conversion of the Notes or the ADSs deliverable in lieu thereof have not been registered under the Securities Act, or any state securities laws. They may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. persons, except in reliance on the exemption from registration under the Securities Act.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any of these securities, nor shall there be a sale of the securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful.

    This press release contains information about the pending Notes Offering, and there can be no assurance that the Notes Offering will be completed.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “aims,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident,” “potential,” “continue,” or other similar expressions. Among other things, the terms of the Notes, whether the Company will complete the Notes Offering, a description of various hedging activities, and statements about Bilibili’s beliefs and expectations, contain forward-looking statements. Bilibili may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its interim and annual reports to shareholders, in announcements, circulars or other publications made on the website of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Hong Kong Stock Exchange”), in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Bilibili’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: results of operations, financial condition, and stock price; Bilibili’s strategies; Bilibili’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Bilibili’s ability to retain and increase the number of users, members and advertising customers, provide quality content, products and services, and expand its product and service offerings; competition in the online entertainment industry; Bilibili’s ability to maintain its culture and brand image within its addressable user communities; Bilibili’s ability to manage its costs and expenses; PRC governmental policies and regulations relating to the online entertainment industry, general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. All information provided in this announcement and in the attachments is as of the date of the announcement, and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

    About Bilibili Inc.

    Bilibili is an iconic brand and a leading video community with a mission to enrich the everyday lives of young generations in China. Bilibili offers a wide array of video-based content with All the Videos You Like as its value proposition. Bilibili builds its community around aspiring users, high-quality content, talented content creators and the strong emotional bonds among them. Bilibili pioneered the “bullet chatting” feature, a live comment function that has transformed our users’ viewing experience by displaying the thoughts and feelings of audience members viewing the same video. The Company has now become the welcoming home of diverse interests among young generations in China and the frontier for promoting Chinese culture across the world.

    For more information, please visit: http://ir.bilibili.com.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    In China:

    Bilibili Inc.
    Juliet Yang
    Tel: -86-21-2509-9255 Ext. 8523
    Email: ir@bilibili.com

    Piacente Financial Communications
    Helen Wu
    Tel: -86-10-6508-0677
    Email: bilibili@tpg-ir.com

    In the United States:

    Piacente Financial Communications
    Brandi Piacente
    Tel: -1-212-481-2050
    Email: bilibili@tpg-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bilibili Inc. Announces Pricing of Offering of Class Z Ordinary Shares in Connection with Hedging Transactions of Certain Convertible Notes Investors and Terms of Concurrent Repurchase

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHANGHAI, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bilibili Inc. (“Bilibili” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BILI and HKEX: 9626), an iconic brand and a leading video community for young generations in China, today announced the pricing of the separate SEC-registered underwritten offering of its Class Z ordinary shares, par value US$0.0001 per share (the “Concurrent Delta Offering”).

    Concurrently, the Company announced pricing of the upsized offering (the “Notes Offering”) of US$600 million in aggregate principal amount of convertible senior notes due 2030 (the “Notes”) pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The Company intends to grant the initial purchasers in the Notes Offering a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional US$90 million in principal amount of the Notes.

    In connection with the Notes Offering, the Company announced the Concurrent Delta Offering, under which 10,281,240 of the Company’s Class Z ordinary shares, that have been borrowed from non-affiliate third parties are being offered in a separate underwritten offering by Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and Morgan Stanley Asia Limited (the “Underwriters”), each acting severally on behalf of itself and/or its respective affiliates, at HK$140.10 per Class Z ordinary share. The Underwriters will use the resulting short position to facilitate hedging transactions by certain investors subscribing for the Notes, who employ a convertible arbitrage strategy (the “Convertible Arbitrage Investors”). The Company has been advised that each Underwriter is concurrently entering into off-market privately negotiated derivative transactions relating to the Class Z ordinary shares, enabling Convertible Arbitrage Investors to establish their initial short positions in the Class Z ordinary shares to hedge market risk in the Notes. The number of Class Z ordinary shares subject to the Concurrent Delta Offering generally corresponds to such initial short positions of the Convertible Arbitrage Investors. No new Class Z ordinary shares will be issued in the Concurrent Delta Offering. The Company will not receive any proceeds from the Concurrent Delta Offering. The Notes Offering and the Concurrent Delta Offering are contingent upon each other.

    The Company will use part of the proceeds from the Notes Offering for the Concurrent Repurchase. The Concurrent Repurchase enables investors to establish some of their initial short positions in the Class Z ordinary shares to hedge market risk in the Notes and reflects the Company’s confidence in its long-term strategy and growth. The repurchased shares will be cancelled.

    The Company has filed an automatic shelf registration statement on Form F-3 (including a prospectus) with the SEC. The Concurrent Delta Offering will be made only by means of a prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus. Before you invest, you should read the prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus and other documents that the Company has filed with the SEC for more complete information about the Company and the Concurrent Delta Offering. You may obtain these documents by visiting EDGAR on the SEC website at www.sec.gov. Alternatively, a copy of the prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus may be obtained from Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC, 200 West Street, New York, New York 10282, Attention: Prospectus Department, Email: Prospectus-ny@ny.email@gs.com, Telephone: 1 (866) 471-2526; or Morgan Stanley Asia Limited, c/o Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, 180 Varick Street, New York, New York 10014, Attention: Prospectus Department, Email: prospectus@morganstanley.com, Telephone: 1 (866) 718-1649.

    Other Matters

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any of these securities, nor shall there be a sale of the securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful.

    This press release contains information about the pending Concurrent Delta Offering and Concurrent Repurchase, and there can be no assurance that the Concurrent Delta Offering and Concurrent Repurchase will be completed.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “aims,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident,” “potential,” “continue,” or other similar expressions. Among other things, the terms of the Notes, whether the Company will complete the Notes Offering, whether the Concurrent Delta Offering and/or Concurrent Repurchase will be completed, a description of various hedging activities, and statements about Bilibili’s beliefs and expectations, contain forward-looking statements. Bilibili may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its interim and annual reports to shareholders, in announcements, circulars or other publications made on the website of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Hong Kong Stock Exchange”), in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Bilibili’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: results of operations, financial condition, and stock price; Bilibili’s strategies; Bilibili’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Bilibili’s ability to retain and increase the number of users, members and advertising customers, provide quality content, products and services, and expand its product and service offerings; competition in the online entertainment industry; Bilibili’s ability to maintain its culture and brand image within its addressable user communities; Bilibili’s ability to manage its costs and expenses; PRC governmental policies and regulations relating to the online entertainment industry, general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. All information provided in this announcement and in the attachments is as of the date of the announcement, and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

    About Bilibili Inc.

    Bilibili is an iconic brand and a leading video community with a mission to enrich the everyday lives of young generations in China. Bilibili offers a wide array of video-based content with All the Videos You Like as its value proposition. Bilibili builds its community around aspiring users, high-quality content, talented content creators and the strong emotional bonds among them. Bilibili pioneered the “bullet chatting” feature, a live comment function that has transformed our users’ viewing experience by displaying the thoughts and feelings of audience members viewing the same video. The Company has now become the welcoming home of diverse interests among young generations in China and the frontier for promoting Chinese culture across the world.

    For more information, please visit: http://ir.bilibili.com.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    In China:

    Bilibili Inc.
    Juliet Yang
    Tel: -86-21-2509-9255 Ext. 8523
    Email: ir@bilibili.com

    Piacente Financial Communications
    Helen Wu
    Tel: -86-10-6508-0677
    Email: bilibili@tpg-ir.com

    In the United States:

    Piacente Financial Communications
    Brandi Piacente
    Tel: -1-212-481-2050
    Email: bilibili@tpg-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Wang Yi to chair third China-Pacific Island Foreign Ministers’ Meeting

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, May 21 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, will chair the third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting to be held in Xiamen, east China’s Fujian Province, from May 28 to 29, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Wednesday. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese Foreign Minister Meets Afghan Acting Foreign Minister in Beijing /detailed version-1/

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, May 21 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Acting Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Beijing on Wednesday.

    Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, welcomed A.H. Muttaqi’s visit, which coincides with the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. He stressed that China and Afghanistan, as traditional friendly neighbors, always support and understand each other.

    “China respects the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Afghanistan, as well as the independent choice of the Afghan people,” Wang said, stressing that China will continue to support the Afghan government in achieving long-term peace and stability in the country at an early date.

    Wang Yi added that China is willing to work with the Afghan side to develop traditional friendship, strengthen political mutual trust and deepen practical cooperation so as to bring more benefits to the two countries and their peoples, and contribute to regional peace and stability.

    According to him, China is ready to increase cooperation with Afghanistan in the areas of economy and trade, agriculture, energy, mining, poverty reduction, disaster prevention, personnel training, healthcare, law enforcement and security.

    The Chinese side intends to increase imports of high-quality Afghan products and provide all possible support in restoring Afghanistan’s economy and improving the living conditions of its population, the minister said.

    A.H. Muttaqi, in turn, thanked China for its valuable assistance in developing Afghanistan and improving the living conditions of the Afghan people over a long period of time, as well as for its advocacy of justice for Afghanistan in the international arena.

    He stressed that the Afghan government values the traditional friendship between Afghanistan and China, attaches great importance to relations with China in its foreign policy, and will continue to firmly adhere to the one-China principle and firmly oppose interference in China’s internal affairs.

    A. H. Muttaqi noted that the Afghan side is ready to deepen mutual trust with China and contribute to achieving greater positive results in cooperation in various areas. “Afghanistan attaches great importance to China’s security issues and will under no circumstances allow Afghan territory to be used for activities that threaten China’s security,” he stressed.

    Afghanistan is ready to step up cooperation with China in the security sphere, jointly combat violent crimes and ensure security and stability in the region, added A.H. Muttaqi. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China and ASEAN Complete Negotiations on CAFTA Version 3.0 /Detailed Version-1/

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, May 21 (Xinhua) — China and 10 ASEAN countries have fully concluded negotiations on the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area (CAFTA) 3.0, the Ministry of Commerce said Wednesday.

    The achievement was announced on Tuesday during a special online meeting of China-ASEAN economy and trade ministers.

    CAFTA 3.0 will send a strong signal in support of free trade and open cooperation, the Commerce Ministry official said, noting that it will bring greater certainty to regional and global trade and play a guiding and exemplary role for different countries in upholding the principles of openness, inclusiveness and mutually beneficial cooperation.

    Negotiations on CAFTA version 3.0, which began in November 2022, were substantially concluded in October 2024 after nine rounds of formal negotiations.

    Version 3.0 contains nine new chapters covering areas such as the digital economy, green economy and supply chain connectivity, according to the ministry.

    CAFTA 3.0 will create an inclusive, modern, comprehensive and mutually beneficial free trade agreement. The new additions will provide the parties with the opportunity to advance regional economic integration in a broader and deeper manner and effectively facilitate the deep integration of their production and supply chains in the new environment.

    Moreover, CAFTA 3.0 will provide important institutional guarantees for the construction of the China-ASEAN mega market, thereby giving a steady impetus to the building of a China-ASEAN community with a shared future and promoting the common prosperity and development of both sides, the MOC noted.

    The parties will actively advance their respective internal signature and ratification procedures with a view to formally signing the CAFTA Modernization Protocol version 3.0 by the end of this year, the department added. -0-

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