NewzIntel.com

Category: China

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Released lists shed light on Japanese germ warfare units’ activities in China

    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

    TOKYO, May 14 (Xinhua) — The National Archives of Japan on Wednesday released lists of personnel of three biological warfare units of the Imperial Japanese Army.

    The documents contain detailed personal information on members of Units 1644, 8604 and 8609, including names, dates of birth, family register details, addresses and assignment details.

    These lists, originally under the control of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, were transferred to the National Archives in March 2024 and were included in the list of documents to be released to the public in March 2025.

    The documents were released at the request of researchers, including renowned bacteriological warfare expert and professor emeritus at the Shiga Prefectural University of Medical Sciences, Katsuo Nishiyama.

    Kazuo Nishiyama said Wednesday that the discovery of the lists disproves previous claims that the germ warfare units existed.

    During the invasion of China, the Japanese army formed several biological warfare units, including the infamous “Unit 731.” –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Head of the Propaganda Department of the CPC Central Committee Visits Morocco

    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

    RABAT, May 14 (Xinhua) — Li Shulei, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, led a CPC delegation to Morocco from May 12 to 14 at the invitation of the National Rally of Independents (NRII) Party.

    During the visit, Li Shulei held separate meetings with senior Moroccan officials, including Prime Minister and PON Chairman Aziz Ahannouch, Speaker of the House of Representatives (lower house of parliament) Rachid al-Talbi Alami, Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, Minister of Equipment and Water Resources Nizar Baraka, and held talks with leaders of other major Moroccan political parties.

    Li Shulei noted that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China-Morocco relations have developed rapidly and are enjoying the best period in history. He said China is willing to work with Morocco to implement the important consensus reached by the two leaders, strengthen political mutual trust, deepen strategic interaction, expand mutual learning between civilizations, and jointly advocate an equal and orderly multipolar world and an inclusive economic globalization that benefits everyone.

    The head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee called for promoting high-quality joint construction of the Belt and Road for the benefit of the two countries and their peoples, and making China-Morocco cultural and humanitarian exchanges and cooperation a model for implementing the Global Civilization Initiative.

    Li Shulei added that the CPC hopes to deepen exchanges of governance experience with friendly political parties in Morocco to promote the further development of the China-Morocco strategic partnership through inter-party channels.

    Representatives of the Moroccan side, in turn, stated that King Mohammed VI and the Moroccan government attach great importance to the development of relations with China and are ready to further advance practical cooperation in such areas as infrastructure construction, new energy sources and investment, strengthen exchanges at all levels, constantly enriching the content of the strategic partnership between the two countries.

    In addition, Moroccan political parties expressed their willingness to deepen dialogue with the CPC, strengthen the exchange of ideas and experiences in order to more effectively promote the development of bilateral ties. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton to Lutnick: Chinese Networking Equipment Risks National Security

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton
     
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353May 14, 2025
    Cotton to Lutnick: Chinese Networking Equipment Risks National Security
    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today sent a letter to Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick urging the department to prohibit TP-Link equipment sales. This state-sponsored networking equipment company has deep ties to the Chinese Communist Party and poses a clear present danger to American national security.
    Additional signers of the bicameral letter are Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Josh Hawley (R-Missouri), Jim Justice (R-West Virginia), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), James Risch (R-Idaho), Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri), Rick Scott (R-Florida), and Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama). In the House, the letter was led by Congressman Riley Moore (West Virginia-02) and the signatories are Congressmen Gus Bilirakis (Florida-12), Abraham Hamadeh (Arizona-08), and John Rose (Tennessee-06).
    In part, Senator Cotton wrote: 
    “TP-Link’s pricing practices have triggered a Department of Justice criminal antitrust probe. TP-Link’s predatory pricing, coupled with its circumvention of tariffs, imminently threatens U.S. competition in a market critical to our national security. TP-Link has rapidly captured nearly 60 percent of the U.S. retail router and Wi-Fi system market while expanding the CCP’s cyber arsenal. The CCP uses SOHO equipment for ongoing espionage and targeting of critical infrastructure to pre-position itself for destructive attacks on Americans and communication channels with our allies.  
    For these reasons, Commerce should immediately prohibit future sales of TP-Link SOHO networking equipment in the United States. Each day we fail to act, the CCP wins while American competitors suffer, and American security remains at risk.”Full text of the letter may be found here and below. 
    The Honorable Howard LutnickSecretaryDepartment of Commerce1401 Constitution Avenue, NWWashington, D.C. 20230
    Dear Secretary Lutnick,
    We write in support of the Commerce Department’s investigation of TP-Link, a state-sponsored networking equipment company, and urge you to take swift action to prohibit further sales of TP-Link networking products in the United States. TP-Link’s deep ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), use of predatory pricing to eliminate trusted U.S. alternatives, and role in embedding foreign surveillance and destructive capabilities into our networks render it a clear and present danger.
    Chinese state actors have exploited TP-Link small and home office (SOHO) networking devices — including Wi-Fi routers, cellular gateways, and mobile hotspots — to wage cyber-attacks in the United States. CCP agents commonly exploit SOHO routers because those systems have ideal bandwidth and computing power for sustained cyber activities but lack additional layers of security common in enterprise networks. TP-Link is also subject to China’s National Security Law, giving the CCP access to U.S. systems before American authorities know a vulnerability exists. In fact, TP-Link is the only router company that refuses to engage in industry efforts to remediate Chinese state-sponsored botnets. 
    TP-Link’s pricing practices have triggered a Department of Justice criminal antitrust probe. TP-Link’s predatory pricing, coupled with its circumvention of tariffs, imminently threatens U.S. competition in a market critical to our national security. TP-Link has rapidly captured nearly 60 percent of the U.S. retail router and Wi-Fi system market while expanding the CCP’s cyber arsenal. The CCP uses SOHO equipment for ongoing espionage and targeting of critical infrastructure to pre-position itself for destructive attacks on Americans and communication channels with our allies.  
    For these reasons, Commerce should immediately prohibit future sales of TP-Link SOHO networking equipment in the United States. Each day we fail to act, the CCP wins while American competitors suffer, and American security remains at risk.
    We thank you for your ongoing work to secure and safeguard America’s Information and Communications Technology and Services supply chain. This work is critical to our national security, and we commend President Trump’s Executive Order 13873 to allow the Commerce Department to prohibit transactions in our country that pose unacceptable risk to American national security.     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Skewers Trump’s Trade Policy in Senate Finance Committee Hearing 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today skewered the Trump Administration’s misguided trade policy, which has slowed economic growth, interrupted supply chains, and threatened access to markets for Vermont businesses, farms, and manufacturers. 
    “We’re getting hammered. Dairy is our big product, but we have a lot of vegetable growers. Our farmers get a lot of fertilizer from Canada and it’s going to go up like 25%. And I don’t care what the politics are of the farmer, whether they voted for Trump or voted for Harris—that’s a real hit, right?” asked Senator Welch. “Some of the issues, or the justification for tariffs, is to get the supply chain back here and I have some appreciation for that. But it’s not like, ‘the more we grow here, the better,’ right? We’re already doing that. We get higher costs, and that will make the markets more vulnerable. More farms will go out of business.”  
    Watch more here: 
    The Senate Finance Committee’s hearing featured testimony from representatives of the American Soybean Association, the Center for Strategic International Studies, the Semiconductor Industry Association, and AdvaMed. 
    This week, President Trump announced a new trade agreement with China that will temporarily reduce tariffs from 145% to 30%, while retaining several other newly imposed tariff categories. Even with this temporary reprieve, Americans still face an overall effective tariff rate of 17.8% —the highest since 1934.    
    Senator Welch has blasted Trump’s tariffs and trade war and shared stories from constituents about how President Trump’s economic policies have impacted their businesses, farms, and communities. Senator Welch has hosted roundtables in Stowe, Newport, St. Albans, and virtually, where he heard concerns and first-hand stories from Vermont and Canadian business leaders impacted by the trade war. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Ceasefire declared in Libya’s Tripoli after overnight clashes

    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

    TRIPOLI, May 14 (Xinhua) — Libya’s Tripoli-based Government of National Accord (GNA) declared a ceasefire on Wednesday following intense overnight clashes between rival armed groups in the capital’s downtown and residential areas, prompting international calls to protect civilians and prevent further escalation.

    Fighting broke out overnight between forces loyal to Libyan Prime Minister Abdel Hamid Dbeibeh, including the 444th Brigade, and forces linked to Special Deterrence Forces chief Abdel Raouf Kara.

    According to local residents, the shooting continued until the morning, and the Libyan Red Crescent reported finding a dead person in the center of Tripoli. The extent of the human casualties has not yet been established.

    The UN Support Mission in Libya condemned the violence and attacks on civilian areas and warned that damage to non-combatants and infrastructure “may amount to crimes under international law.”

    The GNA Defense Ministry said the ceasefire had come into effect by midday. Buffer forces had been deployed to separate the conflicting parties and stabilize the situation in hot spots.

    The fighting followed deadly clashes on May 12 between forces loyal to A.H. Dbeibah and the Stability Support Apparatus following the killing of the head of the organisation, Abdel Ghani al-Kikli, better known as Ghaniwa.

    A senior official said A.G. al-Kikli was killed in a compound controlled by the 444th Brigade, which is commanded by Mahmoud Hamza, a militia leader linked to A.H. Dbeibah. A.G. al-Kikli’s death triggered a wave of clashes that left at least six people dead, according to security sources.

    More than a decade after the 2011 overthrow of longtime ruler Muammar Gaddafi, Libya remains a deeply divided country. The government in the east relies on the Libyan National Army, led by commander-in-chief Khalifa Haftar, while the UN recognizes the GNA, which controls the west. Meanwhile, rival militia groups loyal to the western government are also battling for power. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by CE at Partnering for Success – Hong Kong as a “Super Connector” and “Super Value-adder” High-level Business Luncheon in Kuwait (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the Partnering for Success – Hong Kong as a “Super Connector” and “Super Value-adder” High-level Business Luncheon in Kuwait today (May 14):

    Your Excellency Khalifa Abdullah Dhahi Al-Ajeel Al-Askar (Minister of Commerce and Industry of Kuwait), Excellency Ambassador Zhang Jianwei (Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the State of Kuwait), Excellency Mr Rabah Al-Rabah (Director General of Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, 

    As-salamu alaykum. Good afternoon. It is a great pleasure to be with you today in Kuwait, home to one of the world’s largest oil reserves, and a country as committed to talent development as it is to economic diversification. 

    This is our second day in your resplendent capital, Kuwait City, where past, present and future – in design, culture, lifestyle and so much more – come together like no other city in the world.

    Yesterday, I was honoured to have met with His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of Kuwait; His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, the Crown Prince of Kuwait; His Excellency Sheikh Fahad Yousuf Saud Al-Sabah, Acting Prime Minister of Kuwait, and other senior government officials. I thanked them sincerely for the time, interest and hospitality they have shown us, from the moment we arrived in Kuwait. Kuwait has generously arranged for our government delegates to stay at Bayan Palace, a majestic landmark in Kuwait City. I reaffirmed to them the commitment, and sincerity, of Hong Kong and Mainland China in strengthening relations with Kuwait.  

    Yes, I am delighted to be here. So too, are the business and professional leaders with me, a delegation counting some 30 Hong Kong business and institutional heads, together with high-profile representatives of over 20 Chinese Mainland companies from seven provinces and municipalities across the country.

    The delegation brings with them wide-ranging expertise, and invaluable experience, from both Hong Kong and Mainland China, in green development, and innovation and technology, including advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, new energy and materials, health and smart city evolution. They also offer Hong Kong’s wealth of experience in finance, infrastructure, transport and logistics, as well as global business operations and deal-making.

    We are here to better understand the opportunities of Kuwaiti business and investment. To explore how Hong Kong, Mainland China and Kuwait, working together, can create long-term mutual opportunities.

    We’re also here to explore closer ties with the Gulf Cooperation Council (Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, GCC), which, as all of you know, includes Kuwait. Kuwait currently holds the presidency of the GCC, wielding significant influence in the region’s development.

    Our ties run deep and far. China, our country, and Kuwait established diplomatic ties in 1971 – making Kuwait the first GCC country to do so. Last year, trade between China and Kuwait reached well over US$16 billion. 

    Kuwait, I’m pleased to note, was the first country in the Middle East to sign a Belt and Road co-operation document with China. From of the Central Bank of Kuwait’s headquarters building and housing projects, to telecommunications and smart city developments, Chinese enterprises have participated in numerous infrastructure and business projects here.

    Hong Kong treasures its trade ties with Kuwait, too. Last year, our bilateral merchandise trade totalled US$200 million, up more than 21 per cent over the year before. 

    Hong Kong’s trade with the GCC last year reached nearly US$20 billion, up 53 per cent over the past four years. And that robust growth is underpinned by our mutual will to advance trade ties.

    Thanks to our internationally recognised professional services sector, Hong Kong is a pivotal player in the Belt and Road Initiative. In 2023, we included a Middle East Forum, for the first time, at our annual Belt and Road Summit. And we continue to feature Middle East speakers and guests at the Summit. 

    Hong Kong’s Belt and Road Summit will take place in September this year. As earlier the Chairman of the Trade Development Council (Hong Kong Trade Development Council) said, it’s our 10th anniversary Summit, and I invite you all to join us, to take part in a world of Belt and Road opportunities – in business, investment and more.

    And the Asian Financial Forum, Hong Kong’s flagship event bringing together prominent leaders in finance and business sectors, hosted its first GCC Chapter this January. 

    Yes, the ties between Hong Kong and the Middle East continue to grow and diversify. 

    They include the launching of the Middle East’s first two exchange-traded funds tracking Hong Kong stocks. Hong Kong is partnering with a Middle East sovereign wealth fund, too. Together, we are committed to jointly establishing a US$1 billion fund, investing in companies connected to Hong Kong and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.  

    The Greater Bay Area, let me add, is a cluster city development that brings together Hong Kong, Macao and nine southern cities in China. The fast-integrating regional economic powerhouse presents a collective GDP (Gross Domestic Product) that closely rivals the world’s 10th largest economy.

    Hong Kong has much to offer Kuwait. Asia’s financial hub and one of the world’s three biggest financial centres, Hong Kong is also the world’s largest offshore Renminbi business centre. Coupled with our Islamic finance experience, Hong Kong is a trusted partner in your project financing – today and long down the road. 

    Free trade is among our great competitive advantages, fuelling our success for the past two centuries. Hong Kong is a free port, and we will continue to be a free port. Like our country, we are a vocal advocate of a multilateral, rules-based global economy, in spite of mounting protectionism and geopolitical tensions.

    And that, ladies and gentlemen, is a testament to our “one country, two systems” governing principle at work. 

    Under the principle, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region has its own legal, legislative and judicial systems. Our legal system is a common law system, similar to that in many major financial hubs around the globe. We maintain our own currency, with no capital or foreign exchange controls. Information, capital, goods and people flow freely in Hong Kong. 

    The principle of “one country, two systems” also gives Hong Kong unparalleled access to our country’s markets and wide-ranging opportunities. It allows us, as well, to pursue our longstanding ties with the world at large, the Middle East very much included. 

    As today’s luncheon title, Partnering for Success: Hong Kong as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” emphasises, we do more than connecting companies and people. We also add value to their businesses, their services and their future.

    With companies and investors from Mainland China, and all over the world, looking for a financial haven in this time of global economic uncertainty, Hong Kong is flourishing, and keen to work with you, our partners. 

         An international financial newspaper, spotlighting the Hong Kong Exchange and its record quarterly profits, recently noted that Hong Kong has, and I quote, “benefited from a spate of initial public offerings and rising interest from Mainland Chinese and global investors in Hong Kong-listed shares, especially of technological-related companies, driven by optimism over China’s progress in artificial intelligence”. 

    That speaks of Hong Kong’s “one country, two systems” advantages working for you – linking a world of investors to the secure and rapidly growing Chinese market.

    It helps, and greatly, that Hong Kong’s economy is inextricably tied to our common law system and a judiciary that exercises its powers independently, a legal regime that resembles many of the world’s leading financial hubs. They give international companies and investors – Kuwait certainly included – all the confidence and the certainty they need to do business, in Hong Kong and throughout China. Kuwait certainly included.

    Ladies and gentlemen, I’m pleased to note that during our visit, Hong Kong and Kuwait have reached consensus on 24 concrete deliverables, through MOUs and related agreements. A ceremony will take place in just a moment.  

    The agreements cover a broad range of collaboration, from trade and the economy, to investment promotion, financial services, aviation and the maritime industries, post-secondary education, the legal profession, sports and more. 

    And our customs authorities will commence negotiations on the mutual recognition of respective Authorized Economic Operator Programmes. This will create smoother, more convenient international links for our respective companies, making it much easier to do business together.  

    Our Airport Authority Hong Kong will soon sign a new MOU with Kuwait Airways, aimed at enhancing air connectivity between the two regions, fostering operational excellence, supporting sustainability, and advancing talent development in the aviation sector.  

    They will lay a solid foundation for long-term collaboration between our two economies and our two peoples. 

    That just touches on our growing co-operation. Indeed, we are now looking into opening a second Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in the GCC region, to manage our many ongoing Middle East projects and prospects in the offering.

    One key area is boosting merchandise trade between our economies. Hong Kong, I’m pleased to say, has signed Comprehensive Double Taxation Agreements (IPPA) with five of the six GCC states. We have also entered into Investment Promotion and Protection Agreements with three of the states, with Kuwait being the first. We have also substantially concluded negotiations on an IPPA with Qatar, our previous stop on this trip, and commenced negotiations with another state. 

    Indeed, our burgeoning trade and investment co-operation, I believe, could well add momentum to the possibility of a free trade agreement between Hong Kong and the GCC. I look forward to our continuing discussions with the Council.

    Beyond business and investment connectivity, there is boundless promise, too, in co-operating in sectors such as arts and culture. 

    Yesterday, we had the pleasure of visiting the dazzling Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Cultural Centre, one of the world’s largest museum complexes. Seeing, firsthand, Kuwait’s compelling commitment to arts, culture and science. I must add that Kuwait is this year’s Arab Culture Capital, presenting nearly 100 activities as part of the country’s cultural celebration.

    Like Kuwait, Hong Kong believes in the primacy of arts and culture. Meanwhile, Hong Kong’s West Kowloon Cultural District is rising as one of the world’s largest cultural developments. And we are committed to becoming the world’s East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange. That very much includes Kuwait and the Middle East in general.

    My thanks to our Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in the Middle East and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council for organising today’s welcome gathering. And to the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority and the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry for kindly supporting us on this memorable occasion.

    Ladies and gentlemen, I know you will enjoy today’s luncheon. Including, let me add, a musical performance by TroVessional, a Hong Kong group dedicated to Cantonese and Chinese ethnic music, brought to engaging life with classic Chinese instruments.

    Enjoy it and thank you!

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Health Bureau responds to enquiries regarding ban on flavoured conventional smoking products

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

       In response to media enquiries regarding the rationale behind the Health Bureau’s proposal to ban flavoured conventional smoking products under the new phase of tobacco control measures, the Health Bureau gave the following response today (May 14):

    Tobacco companies have been adding various flavourings, such as menthol, fruit and confectionary flavourings, into conventional smoking products to disguise the harshness of tobacco smoke, making it easier for non-smokers to initiate and maintain smoking habit. Research showed that banning flavoured conventional cigarettes can reduce the chances of young people using tobacco.

    The Health Bureau has already clearly stated in the Consultation Document on Tobacco Control Strategies in 2023 and subsequent relevant Legislative Council documents that around 50 countries and regions worldwide, including 27 European Union member states, Canada and the United Kingdom, have banned the sale of flavoured cigarettes. China’s Taiwan region also announced last year the prohibition of the use of specified flavour additives in tobacco products.

    The Health Bureau reiterates that banning flavoured conventional smoking products is not unique to Hong Kong, nor is it “over the top”. Contrarily, Hong Kong needs to align itself with international tobacco control policies through this legislative work.

    Ends/Wednesday, May 14, 2025
    Issued at HKT 22:14

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 11 killed in Ethiopia truck crash

    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

    ADDIS ABABA, May 14 (Xinhua) — At least 11 people were killed and 25 others injured in a road accident in southern Ethiopia, local authorities said.

    A truck carrying 42 people and goods lost control and overturned in West Hararghe area of Oromia region, state broadcaster Fana reported on Tuesday.

    West Hararghe communications director Farid Yishak said 25 people with serious and minor injuries were taken to nearby health facilities following the tragedy. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China issued 10.06 trillion yuan in new loans in first four months of 2025

    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 14 (Xinhua) — China issued 10.06 trillion yuan (1.39 trillion U.S. dollars) worth of new renminbi-denominated loans in the first four months of 2025, data from the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) showed Wednesday.

    According to the PBOC, the volume of outstanding loans stood at 265.7 trillion yuan at the end of April, up 7.2 percent year-on-year.

    In the first four months, loans to households increased by 518.4 billion yuan, while loans to businesses increased by 9.27 trillion yuan.

    As noted by the Central Bank, by the end of April this year, the volume of money supply M2, which includes cash in circulation and all deposits, increased by 8 percent year-on-year to 325.17 trillion yuan.

    At the same time, the volume of M1 money supply, covering cash in circulation, demand deposits and funds in accounts of clients of non-bank payment institutions, amounted to 109.14 trillion yuan, showing an increase of 1.5 percent year-on-year.

    The M0 money supply, which includes all cash in circulation, reached 13.14 trillion yuan by the end of last month, up 12 percent year-on-year.

    In the first four months, the volume of yuan deposits in China increased by 12.55 trillion yuan, of which 7.83 trillion yuan came from household deposits.

    According to preliminary estimates, China’s public finance reserves reached 424 trillion yuan at the end of April, up 8.7 percent year-on-year.

    Preliminary data also showed that public funding increased by 16.34 trillion yuan in the first four months, up 3.61 trillion yuan from the same period last year. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker, Schatz, Coons, Murphy Lead 27 Senators in Introducing Resolution to Condemn $400 Million Airplane Gift to Trump from Qatar

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-HI), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Chris Murphy (D-CT) in leading a group of 27 Senators to introduce a resolution condemning a luxury airplane gift, valued at $400 million, President Donald Trump announced he will receive from the government of Qatar. According to reports, Trump intends to designate the plane as Air Force One while in office and then transfer it to a foundation for personal use following the end of his term.
    “While Republicans plot to gut vital services like Social Security and Medicaid and unleash economic uncertainty onto hardworking Americans, Donald Trump is planning to accept a luxury jet, valued at $400 million, from a foreign government,” said Senator Booker. “This not only creates a clear conflict of interest, raises serious national security concerns, and undermines public trust in our government, but is a slap in the face to the people across the country who are struggling to make ends meet. All Senators should be able to agree that no one should use public service for personal gain through foreign gifts. I hope my Republican colleagues will support this resolution.”
    “Air Force One is more than just a plane — it’s a symbol of the presidency and of the United States itself,” said Senator Schatz. “Any president who accepts this kind of gift, valued at $400 million, from a foreign government creates a clear conflict of interest, raises serious national security questions, invites foreign influence, and undermines public trust in our government. We are asking the Senate to vote to reiterate a basic principle: no president should use public service for personal gain through foreign gifts.”
    “We wouldn’t trust another country to decorate the Oval Office, to set up our Situation Room, or to wire the White House briefing room, so why would we let another country build Air Force One for us, which is an airborne version of all three? This isn’t just a massive act of corruption, it’s a national security risk of the highest order,” said Senator Coons, Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense. “If President Trump is so willing to put his own administration in danger for the sake of a $400 million gift, imagine how much danger he’s willing to put the American people in.”
    “The president doesn’t get to trade U.S. foreign policy and national security for a private jet,” said Senator Murphy. “This resolution sends the message Trump won’t: the Oval Office is not for sale.”
    “President Trump’s penchant for corruption and grift has risen to a new level with the news his presidency is for sale – if you happen to have $400 million dollars,” said Leader Schumer. “This Qatari plane deal would be the largest Presidential bribe in modern history and it’s not just naked corruption, it’s a grave national security threat. Senate Republicans may bury their heads in the sand while Trump tries to enrich himself and his billionaire buddies, but Senate Democrats are going to stand up for the American people and say enough is enough – we condemn this attempt at corruption and gross violation of the Constitution.”
    “No, Donald Trump cannot accept a $400 million flying palace from the royal family of Qatar. Not only is this farcically corrupt, it is blatantly unconstitutional,” said Senator Sanders. “Congress must not allow this over-the-top kleptocracy to proceed.”
    “President Trump wants to accept a $400 million private jet from a foreign government, have American taxpayers pay to retrofit it as Air Force One, and then keep it for himself to jet around the world as soon as he leaves office. It’s hard to imagine more brazen corruption or a clearer violation of our Constitution’s Emoluments Clause, and there’s no question this outlandish proposal puts our country’s national security at risk,” said Senator Murray. “Every member of Congress should support this simple resolution condemning violations of the Emoluments Clause and making clear Trump cannot accept a $400 million private jet from Qatar without explicit consent from Congress.”
    “If someone came to one of my town halls in Oregon and tried to argue that getting a $400 million jet from the government of Qatar wasn’t corruption, they would be laughed out of town,” said Senator Wyden. “Instead of securing new allies against adversaries like China or opening new markets for American products, Trump is using America’s clout to get a private jet. It’s corruption plain and simple that fritters away American influence and leaves us weaker.” 
    “While Republicans in Congress are working to gut Medicaid and Social Security, President Trump is brazenly accepting a luxury jumbo jet from Qatar — for his use during and after he leaves office,” said Senator Padilla. “Once again, Trump is showing us that he puts his own interests above those of the American people, benefiting himself and leaving working families behind. This foreign gift reeks of corruption, is blatantly against the law, threatens our national security, and will cost taxpayers tens of millions in retrofit costs and security upgrades.”
    “Donald Trump is accepting a multimillion dollar plane from a foreign government as a personal gift, while clearly ignoring the Constitution,” said Senator Rosen. “Trump gets richer off of his position while hardworking families suffer from his reckless actions. This is corruption plain and simple, and I’m supporting this resolution to make our strong opposition clear.”
    “This is corruption plain and simple. The President of the United States accepting a $400 million plane from a foreign government is unheard of, and would require direct consent from Congress,” said Senator Warner. “This is just the latest act by President Trump that shows his administration has no regard for the rule of law and is ripe to be exploited by foreign actors.”
     “Trump’s brazen willingness to accept a luxury jet from Qatar raises the dangerous prospect that the president can be bought and paid for by foreign powers — putting their interests over Americans’ and our national security. Every Senator should join us in rejecting it and blocking the sale of the presidency to the highest bidder,” said Senator Van Hollen.
    “Our founding fathers knew that we must protect ourselves from corruption and foreign influence, which is exactly why we have a constitutional provision prohibiting presidents from accepting lavish gifts from foreign governments—a super luxury Boeing 747-8 jumbo jet, reportedly valued at $400 million, is no exception,” said Senate Foreign Relations Committee Ranking Member Shaheen. “Congress and the American public have a right to know the details of any arrangement that calls into question whether the President is acting on behalf of American interests and American interests alone. Further, the security implications of taking a foreign-owned and managed plane and outfitting it with the most sensitive U.S. technology continues to demonstrate a lack of judgement in this administration when it comes to guarding U.S. intelligence.”
    “There’s no such thing as a $400 million “no-strings-attached” gift,” said Senator Duckworth. “This is the mother of all bribes. It puts our national security in jeopardy and erodes public trust—all for the President’s own personal gain. Donald Trump wants to sell our foreign policy and sell out our people.”
    “Donald Trump accepting a $400 million gift from a foreign country is corruption in plain sight,” said Senator Hirono. “Trump’s latest grift undermines our national security, flies in the face of the Constitution, and will cost American taxpayers hundreds of millions, if not billions, in retrofits.”
    “The mere notion that the President would cravenly accept a $400 million attempt to win favor from a foreign power is beyond the pale and reeks of corruption.  The White House and presidency are sacred trusts from the American people, not venues for Trump to enrich himself and his family with shady deals and influence buying,” said Senator Durbin. “Our resolution reaffirms what our Constitution makes clear – no President should receive gifts from a foreign power.”
    “While President Trump claims to target fraud and abuse, his actions continue to prove that his priorities are his own interests and those of his wealthy friends,” said Senator Bennet. “His plan to accept a $400 million luxury jet from the Qatari government for use as Air Force One is an act of blatant corruption and a violation of our Constitution that poses severe counterintelligence risks, needlessly undermining U.S. national security.”
    “This is corruption in plain sight. Under no circumstance should a sitting president be accepting luxury gifts from a foreign government, especially while negotiating an arms sale,” said Senator Blunt Rochester. “This is yet another example of President Trump focusing on enriching himself rather than improving the lives of everyday Americans. I’m joining with my colleagues on this resolution to protect national security, to stand up for our constituents, and to uphold the rule of law.”
    “If an ordinary government official accepted a gift even a fraction as valuable as this, there would be a full investigation, and potential firings due to concerns of foreign influence,” said Senator Slotkin. “Now the President is taking a $400 million foreign gift. Beyond the perception of corruption, the idea that a foreign country would have access to Air Force One, as the buyer, during production, leaves it incredibly vulnerable to bugs, tracking devices, and whatever else they or other countries may attempt to manipulate.”
    “This is corruption, plain and simple. The U.S. is not for sale, and we cannot allow the presidency to be bought by foreign interests,” said Senator Klobuchar.
    “Just when you think the Trump Administration can’t sink to a new low of ethical misconduct, he accepts a luxury jet from a foreign nation. Corruption on full display,” said Senator Merkley.
    “We’re beyond foreign interference at this point. We’re watching a President invite a foreign government to buy him off,” said Senator Alsobrooks. “American values are actively being flushed down the toiled by this corrupt President.”
    In addition to Booker, Schatz, and Coons, the resolution is cosponsored by Democratic Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-CT), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Mark Warner (D-VA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Gary Peters (D-MI), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), and Andy Kim (D-NN).
    To read the full text of the resolution, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Peters Helps Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Support American Innovation and Outcompete China

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
    Published: 05.14.2025
    Bill Would Provide Assistance to Michigan Small Businesses and Startups to Invest in R&D

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) helped introduce the American Innovation and Jobs Act, bipartisan legislation that would expand and strengthen research and development (R&D) incentives for American small businesses and startups. The bill – which Peters reintroduced with U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-IN) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) – would help the U.S. outcompete and out-innovate our global competitors, particularly China, who are significantly investing in R&D. 
    “From putting the world on wheels to producing the aircraft and vehicles that led the Allied Forces to victory in World War II, Michigan has long excelled at developing cutting-edge technologies that have kept our state and nation competitive on the world stage,” said Senator Peters. “This bipartisan, commonsense bill would help ensure Michigan small businesses and startups can continue to spearhead innovation that keeps us competitive against our adversaries like China by boosting federal support for R&D, while creating good jobs for Michigan workers in the process.”
    Businesses and startups that invest in R&D have long been able to either claim a tax credit or deduct their investments. This support enables them to invest in developing new, innovative products that help create jobs and build a stronger economy. With the goal of increasing investment in cutting-edge American technologies, the American Innovation and Jobs Act would restore and make permanent U.S. businesses’ ability to deduct their R&D costs from their taxable income in the year in which those costs were incurred. In addition, the bill would also expand the cap for the refundable R&D tax credit, which is a critical tool for small businesses that are just getting off the ground. Prioritizing R&D investment is essential now more than ever as U.S. foreign adversaries like China are attempting to out-innovate the United States.  
    Specifically, the American Innovation and Jobs Act would:

    Expand support for innovative startups by immediately doubling the current cap on the refundable R&D tax credit to $500,000, and ultimately raising it to $750,000 over ten years. The bill would also expand access to the R&D tax credit for startups by lowering certain thresholds needed to qualify.

    Expand the number of startups eligible to use the refundable R&D tax credit by increasing the eligibility threshold from $5 million to $15 million in in annual revenue. It would also extend the period during which startups can claim the credit from 5 years to 8 years after beginning to generate at least $25,000 in revenue.

    The legislation is endorsed by the R&D Coalition, which includes numerous organizations such as Business Roundtable, National Association of Manufacturers, Information Technology Industry Council, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. 
    Peters has long led efforts to support American innovation and help U.S. businesses compete in the global marketplace. Peters helped craft and pass into law the CHIPS and Science Act, which invested $170 billion in research and development for cutting-edge scientific advancements. This law also invested heavily in strengthening our domestic supply chains for critical semiconductor technologies to create good-paying American jobs and keep the U.S. competitive on the world stage. Peters additionally helped pass the Inflation Reduction Act, which will strengthen domestic manufacturing, onshore our supply chains, and create millions of American jobs. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: China-US trade war: the next 90 days are a big deal for Beijing as it seeks long-term solutions

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Chee Meng Tan, Assistant Professor of Business Economics, University of Nottingham

    Washington and Beijing have finally agreed a pause in their escalating trade war. US and Chinese officials announced in Geneva this week that US tariffs on Chinese goods would fall to 30%, while Chinese tariffs on US products would drop back to 10%.

    But the real battle to determine the fate of future US-Sino relations will be in negotiations that take place in the next 90 days. As both sides jostle to protect respective national interests, a win is possible for China. But that probably hinges on whether Donald Trump sees what’s on offer as a win for him as well.

    The 90-day deal to deescalate tariffs, which begins on May 14, includes significant concessions, and shows a willingness from both sides to negotiate.

    In early April, US tariffs on Chinese products had soared to 145%, while Beijing imposed a 125% tariff on US imports. US supermarkets had begun to warn of imminent stock shortages.

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

    Donald Trump was quick to claim a significant win from Monday’s deal, but so did China.

    Was this really a win for either side? So far the only progress is the roll back of tariffs to levels before the trade war intensified in April 2025.

    But for China, the latest tariff reduction has provided much needed, if short term, economic relief, even if no one knows what will happen after 90 days. The Chinese stock market rallied immediately after the announcement. China is attempting to repair its ailing economy fuelled by a real estate crisis that began in 2021. So, Beijing needs more triumphs of this sort, as it realises that fiscal stimulus may be ineffective in the face of overwhelming tariffs.

    So, what measures should Beijing take to ensure that US tariffs remain low, if not lower?

    Before the trade war between the US and China began in July 2018, tariffs imposed by Washington on Beijing and vice versa were relatively low. In January 2018, US tariffs on Chinese exports stood at 3.1%, while Chinese tariffs on US exports were at 8%. While the current 10% Chinese tariffs on US goods isn’t far from the pre-trade war level, the same cannot be said of US tariffs on Chinese goods, which stand at 30%.

    What’s a big win for China?

    For Beijing, a big win would be a return of the pre-trade war tariffs or the absence of tariffs entirely. But either outcome is highly unlikely.

    A major obstacle is Trump’s need for a political win. In early April this year, the US president has harshly criticised foreign nations for having “looted, pillaged, raped, and plundered” the US. To address this problem, the US has imposed a minimum tariff of 10% on all nations sending exports to the US. And if Washington were to reduce tariffs on Chinese products to under 10%, then he would be expected to do the same with the rest of the world.

    Even this 90-day deal with China could be seen as capitulation by Trump, who was already under pressure from the US stock market and business leaders to roll back the high tariffs on Chinese goods. But revising baseline tariffs downwards to below 10% for the rest of the world would be seen as an even greater cop out.

    This could eat into Trump’s political capital and harm the Republican party’s chances at midterm elections scheduled for 2026. All of which seems unlikely.

    Details of the US and China trade war pause start to be revealed.

    What China hopes is for future US tariffs to get back to around 10%. This represents a massive improvement from the previous 145% imposed by the White House in April this year. But for Washington to save face and claim a believable victory of its own to reduce tariffs, Beijing needs to offer something in return.

    Sticking points

    One significant issue affecting US-Sino relations is the drug fentanyl. According to the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), fentanyl, which is responsible for tens of thousands of US deaths each year, comes primarily from China and Mexico.

    Washington expects Beijing to do more to stem the flow of the drug and chemicals used to make the drug from flowing into the US. To push China to take action on this, the US imposed a 30% tariff on China instead of the baseline 10% it has put on all other nations.

    Beijing sees things differently and claimed that Washington is engaging in a “smear campaign” and aims to “shift blame” on China for not doing enough when the country has some of the strictest drug laws in the world.

    Trump sees the fentanyl problem as a national security issue, and says China needs to provide sufficient concessions in stemming the outflow of the drug so that the White House can justify the lowering of tariffs below the existing 30%.

    But China can do more to secure lower tariffs. As part of the present trade deal, China has agreed to lift its export ban of critical minerals to the US. This is a crucial for the US as these items are essential in manufacturing advanced weaponry.

    If Beijing can guarantee the flow of critical minerals to the US, and assure its support for US agriculture, an important political support base for Trump, then it is likely that a Trump administration would lower, and more importantly, maintain these tariffs in the foreseeable future.

    China probably will want to hedge its bets. It needs to engage with the US and lower US tariffs as much as possible, but will want to look at other options, rather than relying on an unpredictable Trump. It will look to increase its trade with other significant regional players such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, an economic bloc that promotes economic growth among its member nations.

    Ultimately, China needs policy continuity from Washington. Without it, any plans that it has in recovering its sluggish economy won’t work.

    But like any good trader, Trump will likely find it difficult to pass up a good deal, especially when the US has to deal with its own economic problems. So if Beijing can find a way to make a deal that works and brings a symbolic win for both sides, it is likely to get Trump’s attention.

    Chee Meng Tan does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. China-US trade war: the next 90 days are a big deal for Beijing as it seeks long-term solutions – https://theconversation.com/china-us-trade-war-the-next-90-days-are-a-big-deal-for-beijing-as-it-seeks-long-term-solutions-256535

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China ready to provide all the comforts for the new US ambassador in the performance of his duties – 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 14 (Xinhua) — China is ready to provide all the facilities for the new U.S. Ambassador to China David Perdue to carry out his duties, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said on Wednesday.

    Lin Jian made the statement at a regular briefing for journalists, answering a question about D. Perdue’s inauguration.

    “China’s position on China-US relations remains consistent,” the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman added. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s countermeasures against unjustified US tariffs imposed under the pretext of fentanyl problem remain in force – Chinese Foreign Ministry /more details/

    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 14 (Xinhua) — The United States has imposed two rounds of unreasonable tariffs on China under the pretext of the fentanyl issue, to which China has responded with timely tariff and non-tariff countermeasures, firmly safeguarding its legitimate rights and interests. “These countermeasures remain in effect,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Wednesday.

    Lin Jian made the statement at a regular briefing for journalists in response to a question on the matter.

    As the Chinese diplomat recalled, China and the United States reached a number of positive agreements during trade and economic negotiations in Geneva, agreeing to a significant reduction in the level of bilateral duties.

    Following the talks, the United States promised to cancel 91 percent of additional duties on Chinese products and suspend 24 percent of “mirror duties.” China, for its part, also canceled 91 percent of additional retaliatory duties on American imports and suspended 24 percent of retaliatory duties. At the same time, both countries retained mutual customs duties of 10 percent. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The 7th Central Asian Conference on Climate Change was held in Ashgabat

    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

    ALMATY, May 14 (Xinhua) — The 7th Central Asian Conference on Climate Change was held in Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, from Tuesday to Wednesday. The main theme of the event was stated as “Achieving the global goal of climate finance through regional and national actions in Central Asia,” the International Information Center of Turkmenistan reported on Wednesday.

    The conference was organized by the Regional Environmental Center for Central Asia and the Government of Turkmenistan, and was held with the support of the World Bank and the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ).

    Over the course of two days, representatives of countries in the region and international organizations discussed common approaches to combating climate challenges.

    The opening ceremony featured welcoming speeches from the Minister of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan, as well as high-ranking representatives of the World Bank, GIZ, the EU and the UN Development Programme. During a special session, representatives of the World Bank, the UK, the EU and Italy outlined their approaches and spoke about climate finance opportunities for Central Asian countries. Particular attention was paid to mechanisms for the effective use of funds raised.

    The key topics of the second day of the event were transboundary landscape restoration and combating land degradation.

    Conference participants confirmed their understanding of common climate challenges and the readiness of Central Asian countries to work together, naming the transition from discussions to practical actions as a priority goal and promising to continue work on forming a regional climate agenda and preparing for future summits. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin, Cornyn Introduce Bill to Support U.S. Manufacturing, Bar Taxpayer Funds on Chinese-Made Buses and Rail Cars

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and John Cornyn (R-TX) led a bipartisan group of their colleagues in introducing the Safeguarding Transit Operations to Prohibit (STOP) China Act to support American manufacturing and workers and stop the U.S. government from buying Chinese buses and rail cars. The bill will protect domestic transit supply chains from malign Chinese influence by preventing any U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) funds from being awarded for the purchase of Chinese government transit buses or rail cars.

    “When we invest American taxpayer dollars, we should be supporting our Made in America economy and American workers, not opening our checkbook to adversaries like China,” said Senator Baldwin. “I’m proud to work with Republicans and Democrats to support our workers and companies, keep the United States safe, and close a loophole that Chinese companies are exploiting to win government contracts and undercut American workers.”

    “It is China’s mission to infiltrate and dominate every aspect of American society, including our transit systems, and we cannot let them succeed,” said Senator Cornyn. “By preventing American tax dollars from being used to purchase Chinese government transit buses or rail cars, our legislation would help protect U.S. transportation infrastructure from the CCP.”

    “Companies controlled by the Chinese Communist Party have no business receiving a penny of American federal taxpayer dollars,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. “The STOP China Act strengthens federal law meant to ensure that our transportation programs don’t fund these corporations and will help protect the jobs of hardworking Teamsters who manufacture buses against unfair state-sponsored competition.”

    Congress passed the Transportation Infrastructure Vehicle Security Act (TIVSA), which prohibits companies with ties to China’s government from receiving taxpayer-funded contracts from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to build U.S. rail cars and buses, as part of the Fiscal Year 2020 National Defense Authorization Act.

    However, China has taken advantage of other government funds in the law to continue competing for transit business in the U.S. The STOP China Act would prevent any appropriated funds to the DOT from being awarded to grantees for the purchase of Chinese government transit buses. It would also require the United States Trade Representative (USTR), in consultation with the U.S. Attorney General, to produce a list of prohibited entities headquartered or affiliated with China.

    In addition to Senator Baldwin, the bill is cosponsored by Senators Rick Scott (R-FL), Tina Smith (D-MN), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Gary Peters (D-MI) and Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV).

    The legislation is endorsed by Alliance for American Manufacturing, Steel Manufacturers Association, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, United Steelworkers, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, and Transport Workers Union of America.

    Full text of the bill is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Smoking products ban justified

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Tobacco companies have been adding such flavours such as menthol, fruit and confectionaries into conventional smoking products to disguise the harshness of tobacco smoke, making it easier for non-smokers to initiate and maintain a bsmoking habit, the Health Bureau pointed out today.

    The statement was made in response to media enquiries regarding the rationale behind the bureau’s proposal to ban flavoured conventional smoking products under a new phase of tobacco control measures.

    Research also showed that banning flavoured conventional cigarettes can reduce the chances of young people using tobacco, the bureau added.

    The bureau had already stated in the Consultation Document on Tobacco Control Strategies in 2023 as well as subsequent Legislative Council documents that around 50 countries and regions worldwide, including 27 European Union member states, Canada and the UK have banned the sale of flavoured cigarettes. Additionally, China’s Taiwan region announced last year the prohibition of the use of specified flavour additives in tobacco products.

    Stressing that banning flavoured conventional smoking products is neither unique to Hong Kong nor “over the top”, the bureau said Hong Kong needs to align itself with international tobacco control policies through legislative work.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Middle East visit successful: CE

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Executive John Lee hailed his visit to Kuwait and Qatar as a success having made achievements in six areas.

    At a media session in Kuwait City, Kuwait, today, Mr Lee concluded his four-day visit to the two Middle East countries with a business delegation comprising representatives from Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises.

    “We strengthened relations between the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and the governments of Qatar and Kuwait, establishing a collaborative consensus.

    “The visit resulted in a total of 59 Memoranda of Understanding and agreements, 35 in Qatar and 24 in Kuwait, spanning across diverse areas and laying a robust groundwork for multifaceted co-operation.”

    The Chief Executive also noted that the visit helped leverage Hong Kong’s strengths under the “one country, two systems” principle in connecting the Mainland and the world, deepening international exchanges and co-operation, and demonstrating the synergistic power of the complementary advantages between Hong Kong and the Mainland.

    He added that the trip also further built relations with the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) countries to explore greater business opportunities, deepened mutual understanding and strengthening commercial and trading networks, and further enhanced cultural exchanges with the GCC countries.

    In addition to Qatar’s new 30-day visa-free arrangement for Hong Kong Special Administrative Region passport holders, Mr Lee today announced that the United Arab Emirates will grant Hong Kong 30-day visa-free access starting May 15, while Oman will, on the same date, extend its visa-free period from 10 to 14 days.

    Mr Lee also highlighted that in meetings with leaders and officials in Kuwait and Qatar, he appreciated their forward-looking vision and their understanding of Hong Kong’s unparalleled advantages under “one country, two systems” as a bridge between the Mainland and the world.

    “Middle East countries are seeking diversification of risks and looking for opportunities in China and the Hong Kong SAR in order to join the tide of the global economic shift towards the East. In this, Hong Kong has boundless opportunities.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 2 people killed, 17 injured in road accident in Kursk region of Russia – acting governor

    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 14 (Xinhua) — Two people were killed and 17 others were injured in a collision between a bus and two cars on Wednesday near the village of Mikhailovka in the Zheleznogorsk district of Russia’s Kursk region, acting governor of the region Alexander Khinshtein said on his Telegram channel.

    “To our great sorrow, the drivers of both cars died. According to preliminary data, 17 people received injuries of varying severity, two people are in serious condition,” the statement said.

    “All victims are being sent to Zheleznogorsk and Kursk regional hospitals. All necessary assistance will definitely be provided,” said A. Khinshtein, adding that the circumstances of the accident are being established. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Secures Historic $1.2 Trillion Economic Commitment in Qatar

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    MAKING AMERICAN MANUFACTURING AND INNOVATION GREAT AGAIN: Today in Qatar, President Donald J. Trump signed an agreement with Qatar to generate an economic exchange worth at least $1.2 trillion. President Trump also announced economic deals totaling more than $243.5 billion between the United States and Qatar, including an historic sale of Boeing aircraft and GE Aerospace engines to Qatar Airways.   
    The landmark deals celebrated today will drive innovation and prosperity for generations, bolster American manufacturing and technological leadership, and put America on the path to a new Golden Age.
    Since President Trump took office, his commitment to American manufacturing and innovation has attracted trillions of dollars in investments and global commercial deals. Allies like Qatar are partnering in the United States’ success. 
    The following represent just a few of the many groundbreaking deals secured in Qatar:
    Boeing and GE Aerospace secured a landmark order from Qatar Airways, a $96 billion agreement to acquire up to 210 American-made Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 777X aircraft powered by GE Aerospace engines. This is Boeing’s largest-ever widebody order and largest-ever 787 order. This historic agreement will support 154,000 U.S. jobs annually, totaling over 1 million jobs in the United States during the course of production and delivery of this deal.
    McDermott has a strong partnership with Qatar Energy in advancing critical energy infrastructure, with seven active projects worth $8.5 billion. As the sole provider of offshore components for Qatar’s major LNG expansion, McDermott’s work directly supports thousands of U.S. energy sector jobs.
    Parsons has successfully won 30 projects worth up to $97 billion. These high-value engagements have fueled significant company growth, supporting thousands of jobs across the United States and reinforcing American leadership in cutting-edge engineering and innovation.
    Quantinuum finalized a Joint Venture Agreement with Al Rabban Capital, a prominent Qatari company, to invest up to $1 billion in state-of-the-art quantum technologies and workforce development in the United States, supporting U.S. jobs and leadership in this critical emerging technology.  

    Today’s signings mark President Trump’s intent to accelerate Qatar’s defense investment in the U.S.-Qatar security  partnership—enhancing regional deterrence and benefitting the U.S. industrial base.
    The defense deals secured today lock in Qatar’s procurement of state-of-the-art military equipment from two leading U.S. defense companies.
    Raytheon, an RTX business, secured a $1 billion agreement for Qatar’s acquisition of counter-drone capabilities, signed by the U.S. and Qatari governments. This deal establishes Qatar as the first international customer for Raytheon’s Fixed Site – Low, Slow, Small Unmanned Aerial System Integrated Defeat System (FS-LIDS) designed to counter unmanned aircraft. The deal directly supports high-skilled manufacturing and engineering jobs in the United States and reinforces America’s leadership in innovative defense technologies.
    General Atomics secured a nearly $2 billion agreement for Qatar’s acquisition of the MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft system, signed by the U.S. and Qatari governments. This deal will strengthen the U.S.-Qatar bilateral relationship and provide the Qatari Armed Forces with the most advanced multi-mission remotely piloted aircraft in the world, powered by U.S. products made in America.
    The United States and Qatar also signed a statement of intent to further strengthen our security partnership, outlining over $38 billion in potential investments including support for burden-sharing at Al Udeid Air Base and future defense capabilities related to air defense and maritime security.

    These new agreements and instruments aim to drive the growth of the U.S.-Qatar bilateral commercial relationship, create thousands of well-paying jobs, and open new trade and investment opportunities for both countries over the coming decade and beyond.
     CATALYZING PROSPERITY THROUGH GREATER TRADE AND INVESTMENT: The United States and Qatar have a long history of trade and a strong commercial relationship, including significant long-term aviation, critical infrastructure, information technology, and consulting deals. 
    Qatar’s strategic goals outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030 create opportunities for U.S. businesses in multiple sectors.
    The United States had a $2 billion trade surplus with Qatar in 2024 and has had a positive trade balance with Qatar since 2003.
    In 2024, U.S.-Qatar trade totaled $5.64 billion, with $3.8 billion in U.S. exports and $1.8 billion in Qatari imports.
    Qatar’s greenfield investment in the United States totaled $3.3 billion in 2023, focused on hotels and tourism, information technology, advanced manufacturing, financial services, and oil and gas.

    This visit advances opportunities for U.S. companies to expand long-standing partnerships and for Qatari entities to embrace U.S. technologies, adopt best practices, and finalize new agreements for significant sales and investments.
    Qatar has made significant investments in the United States across hotels and tourism, financial services, technology, healthcare, and energy, with plans to invest even more over the next five years. These investments strengthen the U.S. economy by supporting good-paying jobs for millions of American workers, expanding U.S. exports, and funding research and development. 
    Qatar has the third largest proven reserves of natural gas in the world, and has invested in American energy infrastructure, directly contributing to U.S. energy security and industrial resilience.
    Starting in 2019, QatarEnergy initiated $18 billion in investments in the U.S. energy sector with ExxonMobil’s Golden Pass LNG Terminal ($10 billion) and Chevron Phillips Chemical’s Golden Triangle Polymers Plant ($8 billion), both located on the Texas Gulf Coast.

    Qatar is our 12th largest Foreign Military Sales partner with active cases valued at more than $26 billion.
    Qatar’s expansive investment in and trade with the United States contribute to U.S. and Qatari economic growth and prosperity, and Qatar’s choice of U.S. industry’s best-fit solutions supports the U.S. strategic goal of growing our industrial presence throughout the Gulf and the region as a whole.   
     THE ART OF THE DEAL: President Trump is securing billions in investments to revitalize American manufacturing, delivering on his promise to bring back “Made in America” and usher in a new Golden Age of prosperity.
    Today’s announcement builds on yesterday’s $600 billion investment commitment secured in Saudi Arabia.
    It also follows the announcement of an historic trade agreement with the United Kingdom and a joint agreement with China to reduce reciprocal tariffs. 
    By securing these investments, President Trump is spurring a manufacturing renaissance, driving economic growth, and creating high-paying jobs across the nation.
    Prior to this historic deal, President Trump had already attracted trillions in U.S.-based investments, laying the foundation for an era of unprecedented American prosperity.
    President Trump is building on his record of success with Qatar, exemplified by his leadership in the 2019 GE Aerospace GEnx engine sale to power Qatar Airways’ then-newly acquired Boeing 787-9 aircraft—a monumental purchase in the history of both companies.
    As the dealmaker in chief, President Trump’s latest achievement in Qatar is another win for America.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Secures Historic $1.2 Trillion Economic Commitment in Qatar

    Source: The White House

    MAKING AMERICAN MANUFACTURING AND INNOVATION GREAT AGAIN: Today in Qatar, President Donald J. Trump signed an agreement with Qatar to generate an economic exchange worth at least $1.2 trillion. President Trump also announced economic deals totaling more than $243.5 billion between the United States and Qatar, including an historic sale of Boeing aircraft and GE Aerospace engines to Qatar Airways.   

    • The landmark deals celebrated today will drive innovation and prosperity for generations, bolster American manufacturing and technological leadership, and put America on the path to a new Golden Age.
    • Since President Trump took office, his commitment to American manufacturing and innovation has attracted trillions of dollars in investments and global commercial deals. Allies like Qatar are partnering in the United States’ success. 
    • The following represent just a few of the many groundbreaking deals secured in Qatar:
      • Boeing and GE Aerospace secured a landmark order from Qatar Airways, a $96 billion agreement to acquire up to 210 American-made Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 777X aircraft powered by GE Aerospace engines. This is Boeing’s largest-ever widebody order and largest-ever 787 order. This historic agreement will support 154,000 U.S. jobs annually, totaling over 1 million jobs in the United States during the course of production and delivery of this deal.
      • McDermott has a strong partnership with Qatar Energy in advancing critical energy infrastructure, with seven active projects worth $8.5 billion. As the sole provider of offshore components for Qatar’s major LNG expansion, McDermott’s work directly supports thousands of U.S. energy sector jobs.
      • Parsons has successfully won 30 projects worth up to $97 billion. These high-value engagements have fueled significant company growth, supporting thousands of jobs across the United States and reinforcing American leadership in cutting-edge engineering and innovation.
      • Quantinuum finalized a Joint Venture Agreement with Al Rabban Capital, a prominent Qatari company, to invest up to $1 billion in state-of-the-art quantum technologies and workforce development in the United States, supporting U.S. jobs and leadership in this critical emerging technology.  
    • Today’s signings mark President Trump’s intent to accelerate Qatar’s defense investment in the U.S.-Qatar security  partnership—enhancing regional deterrence and benefitting the U.S. industrial base.
      • The defense deals secured today lock in Qatar’s procurement of state-of-the-art military equipment from two leading U.S. defense companies.
      • Raytheon, an RTX business, secured a $1 billion agreement for Qatar’s acquisition of counter-drone capabilities, signed by the U.S. and Qatari governments. This deal establishes Qatar as the first international customer for Raytheon’s Fixed Site – Low, Slow, Small Unmanned Aerial System Integrated Defeat System (FS-LIDS) designed to counter unmanned aircraft. The deal directly supports high-skilled manufacturing and engineering jobs in the United States and reinforces America’s leadership in innovative defense technologies.
      • General Atomics secured a nearly $2 billion agreement for Qatar’s acquisition of the MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft system, signed by the U.S. and Qatari governments. This deal will strengthen the U.S.-Qatar bilateral relationship and provide the Qatari Armed Forces with the most advanced multi-mission remotely piloted aircraft in the world, powered by U.S. products made in America.
      • The United States and Qatar also signed a statement of intent to further strengthen our security partnership, outlining over $38 billion in potential investments including support for burden-sharing at Al Udeid Air Base and future defense capabilities related to air defense and maritime security.
    • These new agreements and instruments aim to drive the growth of the U.S.-Qatar bilateral commercial relationship, create thousands of well-paying jobs, and open new trade and investment opportunities for both countries over the coming decade and beyond.

     
    CATALYZING PROSPERITY THROUGH GREATER TRADE AND INVESTMENT: The United States and Qatar have a long history of trade and a strong commercial relationship, including significant long-term aviation, critical infrastructure, information technology, and consulting deals. 

    • Qatar’s strategic goals outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030 create opportunities for U.S. businesses in multiple sectors.
    • The United States had a $2 billion trade surplus with Qatar in 2024 and has had a positive trade balance with Qatar since 2003.
      • In 2024, U.S.-Qatar trade totaled $5.64 billion, with $3.8 billion in U.S. exports and $1.8 billion in Qatari imports.
      • Qatar’s greenfield investment in the United States totaled $3.3 billion in 2023, focused on hotels and tourism, information technology, advanced manufacturing, financial services, and oil and gas.
    • This visit advances opportunities for U.S. companies to expand long-standing partnerships and for Qatari entities to embrace U.S. technologies, adopt best practices, and finalize new agreements for significant sales and investments.
      • Qatar has made significant investments in the United States across hotels and tourism, financial services, technology, healthcare, and energy, with plans to invest even more over the next five years. These investments strengthen the U.S. economy by supporting good-paying jobs for millions of American workers, expanding U.S. exports, and funding research and development. 
      • Qatar has the third largest proven reserves of natural gas in the world, and has invested in American energy infrastructure, directly contributing to U.S. energy security and industrial resilience.
      • Starting in 2019, QatarEnergy initiated $18 billion in investments in the U.S. energy sector with ExxonMobil’s Golden Pass LNG Terminal ($10 billion) and Chevron Phillips Chemical’s Golden Triangle Polymers Plant ($8 billion), both located on the Texas Gulf Coast.
    • Qatar is our 12th largest Foreign Military Sales partner with active cases valued at more than $26 billion.
    • Qatar’s expansive investment in and trade with the United States contribute to U.S. and Qatari economic growth and prosperity, and Qatar’s choice of U.S. industry’s best-fit solutions supports the U.S. strategic goal of growing our industrial presence throughout the Gulf and the region as a whole.   

     
    THE ART OF THE DEAL: President Trump is securing billions in investments to revitalize American manufacturing, delivering on his promise to bring back “Made in America” and usher in a new Golden Age of prosperity.

    • Today’s announcement builds on yesterday’s $600 billion investment commitment secured in Saudi Arabia.
    • It also follows the announcement of an historic trade agreement with the United Kingdom and a joint agreement with China to reduce reciprocal tariffs. 
    • By securing these investments, President Trump is spurring a manufacturing renaissance, driving economic growth, and creating high-paying jobs across the nation.
    • Prior to this historic deal, President Trump had already attracted trillions in U.S.-based investments, laying the foundation for an era of unprecedented American prosperity.
    • President Trump is building on his record of success with Qatar, exemplified by his leadership in the 2019 GE Aerospace GEnx engine sale to power Qatar Airways’ then-newly acquired Boeing 787-9 aircraft—a monumental purchase in the history of both companies.
    • As the dealmaker in chief, President Trump’s latest achievement in Qatar is another win for America.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOFA strongly refutes Chinese leader Xi’s misrepresentation of historical facts and UNGA Resolution 2758 in signed article

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    May 8, 2025  
    No. 144  

    In a signed article titled “Learning from History to Build Together a Brighter Future,” published in the Russian Gazette on May 7, Chinese leader Xi Jinping misrepresented historical and legal facts regarding the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation, and United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution 2758. His preposterous narrative, which distorted reality and deviated from the truth, constitutes a malicious attempt to deceive and mislead the international community and to erase the sovereignty of the Republic of China (Taiwan). The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) expresses strong displeasure at and condemnation of these false claims. 
     
    MOFA reiterates that the 1943 Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation, and other instruments with legal effect under international law all confirmed the sovereignty of the Republic of China over Taiwan. At the time, the People’s Republic of China did not even exist. How then could these instruments have “all affirmed China’s sovereignty over Taiwan”? The PRC played no role in the fight against Japan during World War II, nor was it invited to the signing of the San Francisco Peace Treaty. Therefore, the PRC is in no position to make any claim concerning “part of the postwar international order.” 
     
    The status of Taiwan, Penghu, and other islands appertaining or belonging to Taiwan was addressed during and after World War II in a series of legal instruments, including the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation, the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, the San Francisco Peace Treaty, and the 1952 Treaty of Peace between the ROC and Japan. Furthermore, the Potsdam Proclamation, the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, the San Francisco Peace Treaty, and the Treaty of Peace between the ROC and Japan all drew on the Cairo Declaration, which explicitly laid out a legal obligation that Taiwan and the islands appertaining or belonging to it (including the Diaoyutai Islands) should be restored to the Republic of China.
     
    MOFA also reaffirms that UNGA Resolution 2758 made no mention of Taiwan anywhere in its text and, therefore, could not have stated that Taiwan is a part of the PRC. It did not grant legal authority to the PRC to represent Taiwan or the Taiwanese people in the UN and its specialized agencies. By mischaracterizing this resolution, the Chinese government not only ignores historical facts but also violates principles of international law. China and its leaders have relentlessly tried to mislead the international community into accepting its “one China principle.” They have falsely claimed that Taiwan is part of the PRC and that the resolution has authorized China to represent Taiwan in the UN system. These are all attempts to erase the objective reality that the Republic of China (Taiwan) is a sovereign country and to terminate Taiwan’s pursuit of its legitimate right to participate in the UN system.
     
    MOFA urges the international community to oppose China’s continuing effort to distort historical facts and misrepresent UNGA Resolution 2758 in order to change the status quo that neither side of the Taiwan Strait is subordinate to the other. It calls on nations worldwide to jointly condemn China for again resorting to blatant provocations and attempting to undermine the status quo. MOFA emphasizes that the Republic of China (Taiwan) is an independent, sovereign country and that Taiwan has never been a part of the PRC. It reiterates that neither democratic Taiwan nor authoritarian China being subordinate to the other is the status quo across the Taiwan Strait and that this is a long-standing, internationally recognized, and objective fact. Only the democratically elected government of Taiwan has the right to represent the 23.5 million people of Taiwan in the UN system and the international arena. China has no right to interfere. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOFA congratulates Holy See on election of new pope and looks forward to deepening bilateral relations

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    MOFA congratulates Holy See on election of new pope and looks forward to deepening bilateral relations

    Date：2025-05-09
    Data Source：Department of European Affairs

    May 9, 2025  
    No. 147  

    The Holy See on May 8 elected the 267th pontiff of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV. President Lai Ching-te promptly instructed the Embassy of the ROC (Taiwan) to the Holy See to forward a congratulatory message to the new pope. In his message, President Lai extended sincere congratulations on behalf of the people, government, and Catholic community of Taiwan. He expressed confidence that the profound wisdom of Pope Leo XIV would serve as a guiding light for the Catholic Church and its 1.4 billion followers worldwide. He also reaffirmed Taiwan’s commitment to working steadfastly with the Holy See to jointly pursue peace, justice, religious freedom, unity, love, and human dignity.
     
    This year marks the 83rd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our country and the Holy See. The two sides enjoy a solid alliance and close interactions and share the universal values of religious freedom, human rights, peace, and compassion. Taiwan will continue to engage with the Holy See in promoting exchanges and cooperation, further strengthening bilateral relations, and making even greater contributions to the world. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Foreign Minister Lin concludes successful visit to US

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Foreign Minister Lin concludes successful visit to US

    Date：2025-05-10
    Data Source：Department of North American Affairs

    May 10, 2025  
    No. 152  

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung on May 10 concluded a successful three-day visit to the US state of Texas and boarded a flight back to Taiwan.
     
    On the last day of the trip, Minister Lin attended the Texas-Taiwan AI and Innovation Summit, which was organized by the Texas Association of Business (TAB), Opportunity Austin, and the Taiwan Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers’ Association (TEEMA) at the Texas State Capitol. In remarks delivered at the event, Minister Lin thanked US partners for long trusting and supporting Taiwan’s technology sector. He said that the gathering highlighted the strong partnership between Taiwan and the United States in such industries as AI, semiconductors, robotics, and energy, expressing the hope that the two countries would continue to work together in technology, capital, human resources, and other domains.
     
    Minister Lin also stressed that Taiwan and the United States enjoyed a mutually beneficial partnership in the high-tech industry. He noted that, given its complete upstream and downstream supply chains and its solid intellectual property protections, Taiwan had always been a key US partner and that together they could build even more resilient democratic supply chains. Pete Sessions, a senior member of the US House of Representatives for Texas, also spoke during the event, reaffirming democratic Taiwan as the staunchest partner of the United States in AI-related cooperation. 
     
    Minister Lin and Representative Sessions also witnessed the signing of a Taiwan-Texas economic cooperation agreement between TEEMA, TAB, and Opportunity Austin designed to facilitate two-way investment between Taiwan and the United States.
     
    During his trip, Minister Lin met with prominent political and business leaders from Texas, announced the Taiwan government’s interest in a Taiwan Tower investment and construction project in downtown Houston, and delivered his address to the Texas-Taiwan AI and Innovation Summit. Furthermore, visiting the Texas House of Representatives at the invitation of its speaker and in the company of Managing Director of the American Institute in Taiwan Washington Office Ingrid Larson, Minister Lin publicly accepted a resolution that the House had adopted in support of Taiwan.
     
    Minister Lin’s visit concluded on a successful note. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to implement a roadmap introduced by President Lai Ching-te to deepen bilateral trade relations through integrated diplomacy, underlining the diverse and robust partnership between Taiwan and the United States at all levels and across all areas. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOFA firmly opposes terrorism, expresses deep concern over growing tensions between India and Pakistan

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    MOFA firmly opposes terrorism, expresses deep concern over growing tensions between India and Pakistan

    Date：2025-05-10
    Data Source：Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs

    May 10, 2025  
    No. 153  

    Following the terrorist attack in Kashmir on April 22, tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated, eliciting international concern. 
     
    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) works closely with democratic partners worldwide in staunch opposition to international terrorism. It expresses firm support for all legitimate and necessary actions taken by the government of India to safeguard national security and fight terrorist forces that cross borders to attack innocent civilians.
     
    MOFA will continue to pay close attention to developments between India and Pakistan and engage in joint efforts to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. MOFA advises Taiwan nationals to pay heed to their personal safety, leave the area of conflict as soon as possible, and seek assistance from the nearest overseas mission in the event of an emergency. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: MOFA strongly refutes Chinese leader Xi’s misrepresentation of historical facts and UNGA Resolution 2758 in signed article

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    May 8, 2025  

    No. 144  

    In a signed article titled “Learning from History to Build Together a Brighter Future,” published in the Russian Gazette on May 7, Chinese leader Xi Jinping misrepresented historical and legal facts regarding the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation, and United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution 2758. His preposterous narrative, which distorted reality and deviated from the truth, constitutes a malicious attempt to deceive and mislead the international community and to erase the sovereignty of the Republic of China (Taiwan). The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) expresses strong displeasure at and condemnation of these false claims. 

     

    MOFA reiterates that the 1943 Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation, and other instruments with legal effect under international law all confirmed the sovereignty of the Republic of China over Taiwan. At the time, the People’s Republic of China did not even exist. How then could these instruments have “all affirmed China’s sovereignty over Taiwan”? The PRC played no role in the fight against Japan during World War II, nor was it invited to the signing of the San Francisco Peace Treaty. Therefore, the PRC is in no position to make any claim concerning “part of the postwar international order.” 

     

    The status of Taiwan, Penghu, and other islands appertaining or belonging to Taiwan was addressed during and after World War II in a series of legal instruments, including the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation, the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, the San Francisco Peace Treaty, and the 1952 Treaty of Peace between the ROC and Japan. Furthermore, the Potsdam Proclamation, the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, the San Francisco Peace Treaty, and the Treaty of Peace between the ROC and Japan all drew on the Cairo Declaration, which explicitly laid out a legal obligation that Taiwan and the islands appertaining or belonging to it (including the Diaoyutai Islands) should be restored to the Republic of China.

     

    MOFA also reaffirms that UNGA Resolution 2758 made no mention of Taiwan anywhere in its text and, therefore, could not have stated that Taiwan is a part of the PRC. It did not grant legal authority to the PRC to represent Taiwan or the Taiwanese people in the UN and its specialized agencies. By mischaracterizing this resolution, the Chinese government not only ignores historical facts but also violates principles of international law. China and its leaders have relentlessly tried to mislead the international community into accepting its “one China principle.” They have falsely claimed that Taiwan is part of the PRC and that the resolution has authorized China to represent Taiwan in the UN system. These are all attempts to erase the objective reality that the Republic of China (Taiwan) is a sovereign country and to terminate Taiwan’s pursuit of its legitimate right to participate in the UN system.

     

    MOFA urges the international community to oppose China’s continuing effort to distort historical facts and misrepresent UNGA Resolution 2758 in order to change the status quo that neither side of the Taiwan Strait is subordinate to the other. It calls on nations worldwide to jointly condemn China for again resorting to blatant provocations and attempting to undermine the status quo. MOFA emphasizes that the Republic of China (Taiwan) is an independent, sovereign country and that Taiwan has never been a part of the PRC. It reiterates that neither democratic Taiwan nor authoritarian China being subordinate to the other is the status quo across the Taiwan Strait and that this is a long-standing, internationally recognized, and objective fact. Only the democratically elected government of Taiwan has the right to represent the 23.5 million people of Taiwan in the UN system and the international arena. China has no right to interfere. (E)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: MOFA congratulates Holy See on election of new pope and looks forward to deepening bilateral relations

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    MOFA congratulates Holy See on election of new pope and looks forward to deepening bilateral relations

    • Date：2025-05-09
    • Data Source：Department of European Affairs

    May 9, 2025  

    No. 147  

    The Holy See on May 8 elected the 267th pontiff of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV. President Lai Ching-te promptly instructed the Embassy of the ROC (Taiwan) to the Holy See to forward a congratulatory message to the new pope. In his message, President Lai extended sincere congratulations on behalf of the people, government, and Catholic community of Taiwan. He expressed confidence that the profound wisdom of Pope Leo XIV would serve as a guiding light for the Catholic Church and its 1.4 billion followers worldwide. He also reaffirmed Taiwan’s commitment to working steadfastly with the Holy See to jointly pursue peace, justice, religious freedom, unity, love, and human dignity.

     

    This year marks the 83rd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our country and the Holy See. The two sides enjoy a solid alliance and close interactions and share the universal values of religious freedom, human rights, peace, and compassion. Taiwan will continue to engage with the Holy See in promoting exchanges and cooperation, further strengthening bilateral relations, and making even greater contributions to the world. (E)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Foreign Minister Lin concludes successful visit to US

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    Foreign Minister Lin concludes successful visit to US

    • Date：2025-05-10
    • Data Source：Department of North American Affairs

    May 10, 2025  

    No. 152  

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung on May 10 concluded a successful three-day visit to the US state of Texas and boarded a flight back to Taiwan.

     

    On the last day of the trip, Minister Lin attended the Texas-Taiwan AI and Innovation Summit, which was organized by the Texas Association of Business (TAB), Opportunity Austin, and the Taiwan Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers’ Association (TEEMA) at the Texas State Capitol. In remarks delivered at the event, Minister Lin thanked US partners for long trusting and supporting Taiwan’s technology sector. He said that the gathering highlighted the strong partnership between Taiwan and the United States in such industries as AI, semiconductors, robotics, and energy, expressing the hope that the two countries would continue to work together in technology, capital, human resources, and other domains.

     

    Minister Lin also stressed that Taiwan and the United States enjoyed a mutually beneficial partnership in the high-tech industry. He noted that, given its complete upstream and downstream supply chains and its solid intellectual property protections, Taiwan had always been a key US partner and that together they could build even more resilient democratic supply chains. Pete Sessions, a senior member of the US House of Representatives for Texas, also spoke during the event, reaffirming democratic Taiwan as the staunchest partner of the United States in AI-related cooperation. 

     

    Minister Lin and Representative Sessions also witnessed the signing of a Taiwan-Texas economic cooperation agreement between TEEMA, TAB, and Opportunity Austin designed to facilitate two-way investment between Taiwan and the United States.

     

    During his trip, Minister Lin met with prominent political and business leaders from Texas, announced the Taiwan government’s interest in a Taiwan Tower investment and construction project in downtown Houston, and delivered his address to the Texas-Taiwan AI and Innovation Summit. Furthermore, visiting the Texas House of Representatives at the invitation of its speaker and in the company of Managing Director of the American Institute in Taiwan Washington Office Ingrid Larson, Minister Lin publicly accepted a resolution that the House had adopted in support of Taiwan.

     

    Minister Lin’s visit concluded on a successful note. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to implement a roadmap introduced by President Lai Ching-te to deepen bilateral trade relations through integrated diplomacy, underlining the diverse and robust partnership between Taiwan and the United States at all levels and across all areas. (E)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: MOFA firmly opposes terrorism, expresses deep concern over growing tensions between India and Pakistan

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    MOFA firmly opposes terrorism, expresses deep concern over growing tensions between India and Pakistan

    • Date：2025-05-10
    • Data Source：Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs

    May 10, 2025  

    No. 153  

    Following the terrorist attack in Kashmir on April 22, tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated, eliciting international concern. 

     

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) works closely with democratic partners worldwide in staunch opposition to international terrorism. It expresses firm support for all legitimate and necessary actions taken by the government of India to safeguard national security and fight terrorist forces that cross borders to attack innocent civilians.

     

    MOFA will continue to pay close attention to developments between India and Pakistan and engage in joint efforts to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. MOFA advises Taiwan nationals to pay heed to their personal safety, leave the area of conflict as soon as possible, and seek assistance from the nearest overseas mission in the event of an emergency. (E)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Budd, Nehls Introduce Legislation to Allow Flight of Supersonic Civil Aircraft

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Congressman Troy Nehls (R-Texas-22), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Aviation for the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, introduced the Supersonic Aviation Modernization (SAM) Act, to require the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator to issue regulations to legalize civil supersonic flight in the United States.

    For the past fifty-two years, the United States has had a speed limit in the sky. The SAM Act would permit operators to fly aircraft at supersonic speeds within the National Airspace System if no sonic boom reaches the ground.

    “The race for supersonic dominance between the U.S. and China is already underway and the stakes couldn’t be higher. To maintain our global leadership in aerospace innovation, we must modernize air travel by lifting the outdated ban on civil supersonic flight. The Supersonic Aviation Modernization Act paves the way to lift decades-old restrictions, allowing for faster air travel. This is a critical step to ensure America leads the next era of aviation,” said Senator Budd.

    “The United States is home to many ground-breaking innovations and should welcome these innovations so long as public safety isn’t threatened. Our nation’s laws and regulations should encourage these innovations and uplift companies that are leading in industries, including the aviation industry. My legislation cuts regulatory red tape without minimizing safety, and incentivizes further innovation in the aviation industry, helping America remain competitive and the envy of the world,” said Congressman Nehls.

    “Supersonic flight without an audible sonic boom should obviously be allowed. The ban on supersonic has held back progress for more than half a century. I urge Congress to pass the Supersonic Aviation Modernization Act supersonically, so we can all enjoy faster flights and maintain American leadership in aviation,” said Blake Scholl, Founder and CEO of Boom Supersonic.

    “This commonsense legislation maintains safety while clearing the way for innovative technologies to flourish, enabling the United States to keep its competitive edge and remain the global leader in aviation. I commend Sen. Budd, a pilot and recognized aviation champion, for his smart solution to help advance what will be a revolutionary technology,” said Ed Bolen, President and CEO of the National Business Aviation Association.

    Senators Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) joined Senator Budd in introducing the bill.

    Congresswoman Sharice Davids (D-Kan.-3) joined Congressman Nehls in introducing the bill in the House.

    Read the full bill text HERE.

    Background

    14 CFR § 91.817, enacted in 1973, dictates that no person may operate a civil aircraft in the United States at a true flight Mach number greater than 1. This rule prohibits non-military related supersonic flight over the United States, setting an artificial speed limit in the national airspace.

    American companies like Boom Supersonic, have developed quiet supersonic technologies and have already demonstrated that their aircraft can operate above Mach 1 without a sonic boom reaching the ground.

    This is due to a well-known phenomenon called Mach cutoff, in which a sonic boom refracts in the atmosphere and never reaches the ground.

    Despite these innovations, FAA regulations continue to restrict supersonic operations.

    The SAM Act would provide a 12-month window for the FAA to re-examine the existing ban on supersonic flight.

    MIL OSI USA News –