NewzIntel.com

Category: China

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Measures to safeguard supplies of raw materials to EU industry in the light of China’s export controls – P-001726/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-001726/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Marion Walsmann (PPE)

    China’s recently adopted export controls on rare earth metals, including gallium, germanium and graphite, once again demonstrates European industry’s reliance on Chinese supplies for these critical raw materials. These materials are essential for key technologies, such as electromobility and energy from renewable sources.

    • 1.What concrete steps have been taken to protect EU industry and find alternative supply sources since Chinese export duties on gallium and other critical raw materials came into force?
    • 2.Are any contingency plans in place setting out how the European Union could maintain its industrial base in the event of a prolonged disruption to or complete elimination of supplies of rare earth metals from China, not least in the light of other structural challenges such as the green and digital transitions?

    Supporters[1]

    Submitted: 30.4.2025

    • [1] This question is supported by Members other than the author: Oliver Schenk (PPE), Hildegard Bentele (PPE)
    Last updated: 5 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kim, Connolly Bill to Support Taiwan Passes House

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

    Washington, DC – Today, the House passed the Taiwan International Solidarity Act (H.R. 2416), a bipartisan bill led by Reps. Young Kim (CA-40) and Gerry Connolly (VA-11) to counter Beijing’s attempts to exclude Taiwan from participating in international organizations. 

    “Beijing continues to do all it can to isolate Taiwan from the outside world and silence Taiwan’s voice on the world stage. Taiwan has a track record of success in democracy and global health security, and its perspective deserves to be heard,” said Kim, who serves as chairwoman of the House Foreign Affairs East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee. “The Taiwan International Solidarity Act helps the United States demonstrate through meaningful action our support for Taiwan’s status in international organizations. I’m glad the House could show our bipartisan support for Taiwan today. Taiwan’s participation in global conversation is the world’s gain.”  

    “For too long, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) has distorted policies and procedures at international organizations to assert its sovereignty claims over Taiwan, often to the detriment of global health, governance, and security efforts,” said Connolly. “This bipartisan legislation ensures that we stand against Beijing’s weaponization of international organizations and in solidarity with the wishes and best interests of the people of Taiwan. I am thrilled it has passed the House today.” 

    The Taiwan International Solidarity Act builds on the Taiwan Allies International Protection and Enhancement Initiative (TAIPEI) Act, which was signed into law in March 2020, to further counter the People Republic of China’s attempts to weaponize international organizations to claim that Taiwan is part of China by distorting the language, policies, and procedures of international organizations by: 

    • Clarifying that U.N. General Assembly Resolution 2758 does not preclude the United States from using its vote, voice, and influence to resist the reckless campaign against Taiwan’s place on the world stage. 
    • Encouraging the U.S. to work with allies and partners to oppose the People’s Republic of China’s efforts to undermine Taiwan’s diplomatic relationships and partnerships globally.  
    • Expanding reporting requirements to include information relating to any prior or ongoing attempts by the People’s Republic of China to undermine Taiwan’s participation in international organizations as well as its ties and relationships with other countries.  

    Read the bill here.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Transparency remains a central focus at subsidies committee discussions

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Transparency remains a central focus at subsidies committee discussions

    The Chair referred to the most recent WTO Secretariat update, noting that 82 members have yet to submit their 2023 and 2021 subsidy notifications, and that  72 members have still not submitted their 2019 notifications. He reiterated his call for members to submit their notifications promptly, emphasizing that all members benefit from the collective effort of timely and complete notifications. Eight members echoed these calls and commended the Secretariat’s continued efforts to support members in preparing and submitting their notifications, including through targeted technical assistance.
    Review of members’ subsidy notifications
    During the special meeting, the Committee examined 2023 new and full subsidy notifications submitted by Albania, Bahrain, Ecuador, India, Kazakhstan and Montenegro. Additionally, it reviewed outstanding notifications from earlier cycles, notably from Madagascar (2019). The Committee also continued its review of 2023 subsidy notifications from Australia, Brazil, China, Eswatini, Nepal, Norway, Türkiye, the United States and Vanuatu. It also continued its review of a 2019 notification from the Russian Federation.
    National legislation
    The Committee reviewed legislative notifications submitted by Armenia, Cambodia, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom and the United States. It also continued its review of the legislative notifications of the European Union, Ghana, the Kyrgyz Republic, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and the Solomon Islands.
    Reports of members on countervailing duty actions
    Members reviewed semi-annual reports on countervailing duty actions submitted by Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, the European Union, India, Mexico, Peru, Chinese Taipei, Türkiye,  the United States and Viet Nam for the period July to December 2024.
    The Committee also considered notifications on preliminary and final countervailing duty actions from members including Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, the European Union, Mexico, the United Kingdom and the United States.
    The Chair emphasized the need for regular and timely submissions of these reports to ensure ongoing transparency and effective oversight by the Committee.
    Other matters
    The Chair recalled the 31 December 2015 deadline for the elimination of export subsidies by members that received “fast track” extensions under Article 27.4 of the SCM Agreement. He noted that only 15 of the 19 members that had received extensions have provided the final required notifications. He called on the remaining members to comply without delay.
    The Committee reviewed the updated GNI per capita calculations for members listed in Annex VII(b) of the SCM Agreement. According to the latest figures, Senegal graduated from Annex VII(b) while the following members did not: Congo, Ghana, Honduras, Kenya, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Pakistan and Zimbabwe. They therefore remain on the list until their GNP per capita exceeds US$ 1,000 (in constant 1990 dollars) for three consecutive years.
    The Committee also discussed, and members exchanged views on, a range of issues under the following separate agenda items: “discriminatory subsidies policies and measures of the United States” (item sponsored by China); “France’s electric vehicle subsidies programme” (sponsored by the Republic of Korea); and “subsidies and overcapacity” (sponsored by the European Union, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States).
    The Committee elected Mr Kazumochi Kometani from Japan as the new member of the Permanent Group of Experts replacing Ms Tomoko Ota, also from Japan. 
    The Committee conducted a scheduled review of its trial use of the e-Agenda platform, originally agreed in October 2023, to streamline meeting procedures by enabling the upload of delegations’ statements. The Committee agreed to extend the current trial arrangement for an additional two years. A formal review will take place at the Committee’s spring 2027 meeting.
    Next meeting
    The Chair reminded members that the autumn 2025 meetings of the SCM Committee are scheduled to take place in the week of 27 October 2025.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Limited impact of Global Gateway on the African continent – E-001679/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001679/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Benoit Cassart (Renew)

    Launched in 2021, Global Gateway aims to mobilise up to EUR 300 billion in investments by 2027 to finance sustainable infrastructure, promote human development and strengthen global connectivity, in Africa in particular. The aim is to propose an alternative to the Chinese ‘new silk roads’ model, with a focus on democratic values, transparency and sustainability.

    • 1.Can the Commission explain why this strategy is struggling to establish itself as a lever for EU influence in Africa, despite the geographical proximity and pitched ambitions?
    • 2.Does this relative ineffectiveness show that the Commission needs to adopt a more economic and partnership-based model of cooperation, to keep pace with the profound changes taking place on the African continent and the international competition?
    • 3.What action will it take to remedy the slow implementation of this strategy, its lack of visibility, its limited budget given the ambitions (few new funds) and the growing and skewed competition from powers such as China (fewer conditionalities) and Russia, at a time when the African continent is undergoing a major economic and geopolitical transformation?

    Submitted: 25.4.2025

    Last updated: 5 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Perry’s Falun Gong Protection Act Passes the U.S. House

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Scott Perry (PA-10)

    Washington D.C. – Today, Congressman Scott Perry (PA-10)’s Falun Gong Protection Act to impose sanctions on the Chinese Communist Party for engaging in forced organ harvesting and other human rights violations against the practitioners of Falun Gong passed the United States House of Representatives.

    “The United States, as the beacon of freedom around the world, cannot be silent when the Chinese Community Party is engaged in systemic torturing, incarceration, and forced organ harvesting of Falun Gong practitioners,” said Congressman Scott Perry. “I’m encouraged by Congress taking steps to hold the CCP accountable for these atrocities.”

    In 2020, the Independent Tribunal into Forced Organ Harvesting from Prisoners of Conscience in China found an “incomprehensible gap” between the number of transplant operations in the People’s Republic of China in comparison to the number of eligible registered donors. Falun Gong practitioners are a main source of organs for forced organ harvesting in China.

    The Falun Gong Protection Act imposes sanctions on those who participate in or facilitate forced organ harvesting. The bill directs the Secretary of State to determine whether CCP’s persecution of Falun Gong constitutes crimes against humanity or genocide, alongside a required report on CCP organ transplant policies and practices. Additionally, the bill makes it U.S. policy to avoid any cooperation with the CCP as long as its forced organ transplant industry continues.

    The world is becoming aware of the atrocities committed against people who simply want the freedom to practice their religious beliefs – like the practitioners of Falun Gong.

    Read the bill here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Improving the Safety and Security of Biological Research

    Source: The White House

    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:

    Section 1.  Purpose.  Dangerous gain-of-function research on biological agents and pathogens has the potential to significantly endanger the lives of American citizens.  If left unrestricted, its effects can include widespread mortality, an impaired public health system, disrupted American livelihoods, and diminished economic and national security.
    The Biden Administration allowed dangerous gain-of-function research within the United States with insufficient levels of oversight.  It also actively approved, through the National Institutes of Health, Federal life-science research funding in China and other countries where there is limited United States oversight or reasonable expectation of biosafety enforcement. 
    This recklessness, if unaddressed, may lead to the proliferation of research on pathogens (and potential pathogens) in settings without adequate safeguards, even after COVID-19 revealed the risk of such practices.

    Sec. 2.  Policy.  It is the policy of the United States to ensure that United States federally funded research benefits American citizens without jeopardizing our Nation’s security, strength, or prosperity.  My Administration will balance the prevention of catastrophic consequences with maintaining readiness against biological threats and driving global leadership in biotechnology, biological countermeasures, biosecurity, and health research.

    Sec. 3. Stop Dangerous Gain-of-Function Research. (a)  The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), in coordination with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget and the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs (APNSA), and in consultation with the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the heads of other relevant executive departments and agencies (agencies) identified by the Director of OSTP, shall establish guidance for the heads of relevant agencies, to the extent consistent with the terms and conditions of the funding, to immediately:
    (i)   end Federal funding of dangerous gain-of-function research conducted by foreign entities in countries of concern (e.g., China) pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 6627(c), or in other countries where there is not adequate oversight to ensure that the countries are compliant with United States oversight standards and policies; and
    (ii) end Federal funding of other life-science research that is occurring in countries of concern or foreign countries where there is not adequate oversight to ensure that the countries are compliant with United States oversight standards and policies and that could reasonably pose a threat to public health, public safety, and economic or national security, as determined by the heads of relevant agencies.
    (b)  The Director of OSTP, in coordination with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget and the APNSA, and in consultation with the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the heads of other relevant agencies, shall establish guidance for the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the heads of other relevant agencies with respect to suspension of federally funded dangerous gain-of-function research, pursuant to the terms and conditions of the relevant research funding, at least until the completion of the policy called for in section 4(a) of this order.  Heads of agencies shall report any exception to a suspension to the Director of OSTP for review in consultation with the APNSA and the heads of relevant agencies.

    Sec. 4.  Secure Future Research Through Commonsense Frameworks.  (a)  Within 120 days of the date of this order, the Director of OSTP, pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 6627 and in coordination with the APNSA and the heads of relevant agencies, shall revise or replace the 2024 “United States Government Policy for Oversight of Dual Use Research of Concern and Pathogens with Enhanced Pandemic Potential” to:
    (i) strengthen top-down independent oversight; increase accountability through enforcement, audits, and improved public transparency; and clearly define the scope of covered research while ensuring the United States remains the global leader in biotechnology, biological countermeasures, and health research;
    (ii) incorporate enforcement mechanisms, including those described in section 7 of this order, into Federal funding agreements to ensure compliance with all Federal policies governing dangerous gain-of-function research; and
    (iii) provide for review and revision at least every 4 years, or as appropriate.

    (b)  Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Director of OSTP, in coordination with the APNSA and the heads of relevant agencies, shall revise or replace the 2024 “Framework for Nucleic Acid Synthesis Screening” (Framework) to ensure it takes a commonsense approach and effectively encourages providers of synthetic nucleic acid sequences to implement comprehensive, scalable, and verifiable synthetic nucleic acid procurement screening mechanisms to minimize the risk of misuse.  The heads of all agencies that fund life-science research shall ensure that synthetic nucleic acid procurement is conducted through providers or manufacturers that adhere to the updated Framework.  To ensure compliance, the updated Framework shall incorporate the enforcement mechanisms described in section 7 of this order.  The Framework shall be reviewed and revised at least every 4 years, or as appropriate

    Sec. 5.  Manage Risks Associated with Non-federally Funded Research.  Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Director of OSTP, in coordination with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, the APNSA, the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, and the heads of other relevant agencies, shall develop and implement a strategy to govern, limit, and track dangerous gain-of-function research across the United States that occurs without Federal funding and other life-science research that could cause significant societal consequences.  This strategy shall include actions to achieve comprehensive, scalable, and verifiable nucleic acid synthesis screening in non-federally funded settings.  Any gaps in authorities necessary to achieve the goals of this strategy shall be addressed in a legislative proposal to be sent to the President, through the Director of OSTP and the APNSA, within 180 days of the date of this order.

    Sec. 6.  Increase Accountability and Public Transparency of Dangerous Gain-of-Function Research.  The Director of OSTP, in coordination with the APNSA and the heads of relevant agencies, shall ensure that the revised policy called for in section 4(a) of this order includes a mechanism whereby research institutions that receive Federal funding must report dangerous gain-of-function research, and to the maximum extent permitted by law, include research that is supported by non-Federal funding mechanisms.  The reporting mechanism shall provide a publicly available source of information about research programs and awards identified pursuant to this section, including, where permitted by law, those that have been stopped or suspended pursuant to sections 3(a) and 3(b) of this order, and all future programs and awards that are covered by the updated policy developed in section 4(a) of this order.  This reporting shall be conducted in a way that does not compromise national security or legitimate intellectual property interests of subject institutions.

    Sec. 7.  Future Enforcement Terms.  The Secretary of Health and Human Services and the heads of other relevant agencies shall, consistent with existing laws and regulations, include in every life-science research contract or grant award:
    (a) a term requiring the contractual counterparty or grant recipient to agree that its compliance in all respects with the terms of this order and any applicable regulations promulgated by the contracting or grant-offering agency is material to the Government’s payment decisions for purposes of 31 U.S.C. 3729(b)(4);
    (b)  a term requiring such counterparty or recipient to certify that it does not operate, participate in, or fund any dangerous gain-of-function research or other life-science research in foreign countries that could cause significant societal consequences or generate unnecessary national security risks, and that does not comply with this order and the policies ordered herein;
    (c)  a term stating that a violation of the terms of this order or any applicable regulations promulgated by the contracting or grant-offering agency by any grant recipient may be considered a violation of such term by the recipient’s employer or institution; and  
    (d)  a term stating that any grant recipient, employer, or institution found to be in violation of the terms of this order or any applicable regulations promulgated by the contracting or grant-making agency may be subject to immediate revocation of ongoing Federal funding, and up to a 5-year period of ineligibility for Federal life-sciences grant funds offered by the Department of Health and Human Services and other relevant agencies.

    Sec. 8.  Definitions.  For the purposes of this order,
    “dangerous gain-of-function research” means scientific research on an infectious agent or toxin with the potential to cause disease by enhancing its pathogenicity or increasing its transmissibility.  Covered research activities are those that could result in significant societal consequences and that seek or achieve one or more of the following outcomes:
    (a)  enhancing the harmful consequences of the agent or toxin;
    (b)  disrupting beneficial immunological response or the effectiveness of an immunization against the agent or toxin;
    (c)  conferring to the agent or toxin resistance to clinically or agriculturally useful prophylactic or therapeutic interventions against that agent or toxin or facilitating their ability to evade detection methodologies;
    (d)  increasing the stability, transmissibility, or the ability to disseminate the agent or toxin;
    (e)  altering the host range or tropism of the agent or toxin;
    (f)  enhancing the susceptibility of a human host population to the agent or toxin; or
    (g)  generating or reconstituting an eradicated or extinct agent or toxin.

    Sec. 9.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
    (i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
    (ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
    (d)  The Department of Health and Human Services shall provide funding for this order’s publication in the Federal Register.

                                   DONALD J. TRUMP

    THE WHITE HOUSE,
        May 5, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer on Senate Floor: Congress Must Pass the Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer
    Today, during a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) called on her colleagues to pass her Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency (FACT) Act – approved by the Senate Commerce Committee last week – which will require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to publicly identify entities that hold FCC licenses, authorizations, or other grants of authority that are owned, wholly or partially, by foreign adversarial governments.
    In her remarks, Fischer highlights the threats the United States faces from companies with strong ties to foreign adversaries. She specifically calls out Huawei, a major global supplier of cellphone network equipment, citing its troubling and potentially dangerous access to critical communications infrastructure.
    Click the image above to watch a video of Fischer’s remarks.
    Click here to download audio 
    Click here to download video
    Following is a transcript of Fischer’s remarks as prepared for delivery:M. President,
    Last week, my bill, the Foreign Adversary Communication Transparency Act—or FACT Act— cleared the Commerce Committee unanimously. Now, it will come before us here, on the Senate floor, for a vote.
    I stand before you today because the threat our foreign adversaries pose is not a distant concern. It is real, it is relentless, and it is constantly evolving.
    We cannot afford to wait and deal with the consequences. The cost of inaction is too great.
    Congress must anticipate the threats and we must work together to curb the malign influence of foreign adversaries like Communist China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.
    For too long now, we have allowed foreign adversarial governments to secure a silent foothold in our telecommunications infrastructure.
    Take, for example, Huawei.
    Huawei, a Chinese-owned telecommunications giant, is one of the leading producers of cellphone network equipment. This equipment spans across our country and finds its home in most of our cellular devices.
    Over a decade ago, our intelligence agencies began noticing a peculiar pattern of Huawei equipment on cell towers across my home state of Nebraska, as well as nearby Colorado and Montana. That Chinese gear was clustered near sensitive military assets, including Nebraska’s Offutt Air Force Base and our nuclear missile silos.
    Then, just four years ago, U.S. intelligence officials sounded the alarm. Their investigations found that Huawei could secretly access mobile phone networks around the world through “back doors” – unbeknownst to carriers.
    And perhaps even more concerning: Huawei has had this capability for more than a decade.
    And, Huawei’s ownership is bankrolled by billions of dollars from the Chinese government.
    What government freely hands over that kind of money without expecting something in return?
    Despite being based in China and having deep connections to the Chinese Communist Party—as confirmed by the U.S. intelligence community—the company continues to refuse to acknowledge the Chinese government’s influence.
    However, in 2020, under President Trump’s administration, the Federal Communications Commission designated Huawei as a national security threat and banned the sale of its telecommunications equipment in the United States. This past December, Congress also secured the remaining funding to enable smaller, rural communications companies to rip risky Chinese-made equipment out of their networks.
    In 2022, the Justice Department charged two Chinese intelligence officers with an unsettling crime: attempting to obstruct a federal investigation into Huawei by stealing sensitive case material from a U.S. District Attorney’s office.
    Colleagues, I pose to you this question: Why would the Chinese government go to such lengths to interfere in a case involving a so-called ‘private company’ in which they have no stake? They wouldn’t.
    While recent actions to curtail Huawei equipment, and those from other high-risk Chinese firms, are steps in the right direction, they don’t go far enough.
    We must have far greater transparency about which companies holding federal communications licenses and authorizations also have influential ties to foreign adversarial governments.
    And we must look deeper at: Who has this access? And, how many more companies like Huawei are out there?
    Companies like Huawei must be stopped. We can no longer permit authoritarian regimes, like China, to infiltrate our networks and lurk in the shadows, waiting for the opportune moment to strike. It is not enough to brace ourselves for the aftermath of disaster. We must root out the threat before it has time to fester.
    The reality is that our foreign adversaries have stakes in numerous companies operating freely and legally within the United States.
    Yet, in many cases, the public remains unaware of which companies are owned – wholly or partially – by these adversaries.
    That’s why, today, I call upon the Senate to pass my FACT Act, which takes a much-needed step to strengthen our visibility into our telecommunications market to weed out that access we have seen from malicious foreign adversaries.
    Because the first step in defending our national security is understanding the threat.
    My bill directs the Federal Communications Commission to publicly identify any companies – with an FCC license or authorization – that are owned by foreign adversarial governments. Under the FACT Act, companies with foreign ties will no longer be able to operate in secrecy. And they will no longer be able to conceal their financial backers or obscure their true loyalties.
    Huawei should serve as a warning. China is on the offensive, to undermine the security of America’s communications. An attack on our networks is a direct attack on the United States, and it is not one we should tolerate.
    Thank you, M. President, I yield the floor.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Achieves Improved Safety and Security of Biological Research

    Source: The White House

    PROTECTING AMERICANS FROM DANGEROUS GAIN OF FUNCTION RESEARCH: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to improve the safety and security of biological research in the United States and around the world. This Executive Order:

    • Ends any present and all future Federal funding of dangerous gain-of-function research in countries of concern like China and Iran and in foreign nations deemed to have insufficient research oversight.
    • Empowers American research agencies to identify and end Federal funding of other biological research that could pose a threat to American public health, public safety, or national security.
    • Prohibits Federal funding from contributing to foreign research likely to cause another pandemic. These measures will drastically reduce the potential for lab-related incidents involving gain-of-function research, like that conducted on bat coronaviruses in China by the EcoHealth Alliance and Wuhan Institute of Virology.
    • Protects Americans from lab accidents and other biosecurity incidents, such as those that likely caused COVID-19 and the 1977 Russian flu.

    ESTABLISHING SAFE AND SECURE OVERSIGHT OF DANGEROUS GAIN OF FUNCTION RESEARCH IN THE UNITED STATES: This Executive Order will increase the safety and security of biological research for Americans without impeding U.S. innovation.

    • For decades, policies overseeing gain-of-function research on pathogens, toxins, and potential pathogens have lacked adequate enforcement, transparency, and top-down oversight. Researchers have not acknowledged the legitimate potential for societal harms that this kind of research poses.
    • The Biden Administration allowed dangerous gain-of-function research with insufficient levels of oversight and actively approved Federal life-science research funding in China and other countries.
    • The 2024 United States Government Policy for Oversight of Dual Use Research of Concern and Pathogens with Enhanced Pandemic Potential (“DURC/PEPP”) and the 2024 Framework for Nucleic Acid Synthesis Screening are the latest examples of inadequate policies that rely on self-reporting and fail to protect Americans from dangerous research practices.
    • This Order pauses research using infectious pathogens and toxins in the United States that may pose a danger to American citizens until a safer, more enforceable, and transparent policy governing such research can be developed and implemented. It directs the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) and the National Security Advisor (NSA) to work with funding agencies to develop such a policy within 120 days.
    • Unlike previous policies, this Order contains enforcement and reporting mechanisms that will strengthen oversight and discourage subjective interpretation of policies that researchers have used in the past to evade biosafety and biosecurity oversight.

    SAFEGUARDING THE FUTURE AND PROMOTING AMERICAN BIOTECHNOLOGY DOMINANCE: President Trump is driving us into the Golden Age of American Innovation that will lead us to a safer, healthier, and more prosperous America.

    • This Order protects Americans from dangerous gain-of-function research that manipulates viruses and other biological agents and toxins, but it does not impede productive biological research that will ensure the United States maintains readiness against biological threats and continues to drive global leadership in biotechnology, biosecurity, and health research.
    • President Trump has long theorized that COVID-19 originated from a lab leak at the Wuhan Institute of Virology and has consistently pushed for transparency in investigating its origins.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Griffith Statement on President Trump Executive Order Targeting Gain-of-Function Research

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

    U.S. President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to halt U.S. federal funding of gain-of-function research in overseas countries, like China and Iran, without proper oversight measures. In response to the Executive Order, U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement:

    “President Trump’s decisive action against gain-of-function research is a significant step towards greater government agency accountability. While this news is welcomed by many who have closely investigated COVID-19 origins, I believe future congressional action is essential to monitoring gain-of-function research of concern, reforming our public health agencies and protecting American life from risky experiments that involve dangerous virus transmission in humans.”

    BACKGROUND

    In the 118th Congress, Rep. Griffith chaired the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight & Investigations.

    Rep. Griffith chaired hearings on various issues, including but not limited to topics of biosafety and risky research. 

    Rep. Griffith was the lead Energy and Commerce Member in numerous forums with public health officials that were in various leadership positions during the outbreak of COVID-19, including working closely with the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic.

    During this time, Chairman Griffith participated in closed-door transcribed interviews questioning former National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) Director Dr. Anthony Fauci and questioning former National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Dr. Frances Collins.

    Rep. Griffith was also a key figure in examining EcoHealth Alliance President Dr. Peter Daszak. 

    EcoHealth is the company that received grants from NIAID which in turn gave subgrants to the Wuhan Institute of Virology to conduct research on Coronavirus evolution and transmission. 

    Because of questions asked by Rep. Griffith related to significant inconsistencies and delays in required reports, among others, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently announced that Dr. Daszak and EcoHealth Alliance would be debarred for five years, cutting them off from U.S. federal funding.

    In January of 2025, the Wall Street Journal reported that President Trump was considering an Executive Order to halt federal funding to gain-of-function research. In response, Rep. Griffith called on President Trump to scrutinize the country’s national gain-of-function research policy.

    Some of Rep. Griffith’s e-newsletters on these topics can be found here and here.

    In March, Rep. Griffith introduced the Risky Research Review Act and the Royalty Transparency Act to rein in the federal health bureaucracy.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Affordability Actions in the FY26 Budget to Benefit Families

    Source: US State of New York

    arlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul visited Kamil and Karolina Kolodziejczyk — parents of two children — on Long Island to discuss her affordability agenda in the Fiscal Year 2026 Executive Budget. The Governor highlighted her efforts to increase the child tax credit, expand child care access, issue New York State’s first-ever inflation refund checks, deliver a tax cut for middle-class and low-income New Yorkers, and provide free breakfast and lunch for every K-12 student in New York — all efforts to put more money back in families’ pockets.

    B-ROLL of the Governor meeting the Kolodziejczyk family is available to stream on Youtube here and TV quality video is available here (h.264, mp4).

    VIDEO: The Governor’s conversation with the Kolodziejczyk family is available to stream on YouTube here and TV quality video is available here (h.264, mp4).

    AUDIO: The Governor’s conversation with the Kolodziejczyk family is available in audio form here.

    A rush transcript of the Governor’s conversation with the Kolodziejczyk family is available below:

    Governor Hochul: But I just want to talk to you about some of the stresses that families are feeling now and — you’ve got the two little ones, 5-year-old and a 3-year-old.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Yep. 3-year-old and a 5-year-old.

    Governor Hochul: And I know a 3-year-old. I have got a 3-year-old granddaughter now. She just had her birthday, so I know this age very well and I’m a mom, so it’s great to see this. But, what’s it like? I mean, you worry about grocery shopping and what’s it like when you have to go to the counter it all adds up? Are you seeing any — what’s it like?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Oh yeah. Everything got so expensive in a few years. This one was born five years ago, and that’s when COVID happened and lost the job, laid off and it got tough.

    Governor Hochul: How long were you laid off when COVID hit?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: I got laid off and I went and opened my own business with a chance and business, you know, going into HVAC.

    Governor Hochul: That was ambitious. How’s that going for you?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: It’s going well. It’s going well. Now especially in this weather; it got really, really warm lately, so people call — we’re doing installation service. When my second son was born, my wife had to take a week from work and stay-at-home because daycare got really expensive and the needs for the kids and everything.

    Governor Hochul: Same thing happened to me — when I had my job, my son was born and then child care was not really available. I just couldn’t find much child care and it was very expensive. And so, I just ended up staying home too. So we went from having two incomes — my husband was working for the government and we went and eliminated my income — and that was when I would go to the newspapers, and cut out the coupons, and go to the big-box stores and just, yeah; you load up the big cart, and buy the diapers in bulk, and paper towels, and toilet, detergent, dishwashing liquid.

    Karolina Kolodziejczyk: Costco is my favorite.

    Governor Hochul: Costco. There a BJ’s. Or just even going to Walmart, but even those prices are going up, right?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Yeah. I go get the water for a week or something. It’s $100, $20 and it goes in price. Water, drinks — pull up the cart and so, definitely the prices went up, you know?

    Governor Hochul: So you got hit with COVID —

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Yeah.

    Governor Hochul: — lost your job, came back to work, inflation hits you..

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Inflation — the rate for the house, it’s over 6 percent.

    Governor Hochul: Yeah, yeah.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: So the payment —

    Governor Hochul: Interest rates were going up when you bought your house and then you have property taxes.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Taxes up. Yeah.

    Governor Hochul: Also, especially important here on Long Island is the state and local tax deduction — and back in 2017, that was eliminated by the president who’s in office now; that was a big tax increase for New Yorkers. New Yorkers right now are sending $12 billion because of losing the state and local tax reduction. So you’re not able to deduct all your taxes, are you?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: No, we’re over —

    Governor Hochul: You’re over the limit. So that’s money that you know you should have back in your pocket, not sending to the federal government. And that’s something that’s really a problem. So, have you ever had to make decisions about what not to buy? Like you want to do some —

    Karolina Kolodziejczyk: I do want — like some of the little things for the children and even clothes for them, like do I need that?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Thank God we got two boys. So one after another saving too.

    Governor Hochul: They’re always outgrowing their clothes, aren’t they?

    Karolina Kolodziejczyk: Yeah. It’s like every year, the whole — everything new for him, so. Thank God, Benjamin. But if it’s still not ripped, he could use it.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: They’re boys, you know? They’re (inaudible).

    Governor Hochul: They’re rough on clothes, boys, aren’t they? I know that, I know that. We used to get clothes at used clothing stores and put it on layaway. You can’t buy it right when you want to buy it so you put it aside and have to come get it later. So, you know, that’s hard. It’s hard.

    Karolina Kolodziejczyk: It is hard, and like I said, I do cook at home so getting the groceries, everything we need — it’s a lot.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Obviously the vehicles, you got to get bigger because you got car seats with little kids.

    Governor Hochul: That’s right.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: If you had three kids, you got a problem because what are you going to do with it? You can’t put the three car seats in the back of the vehicle. Having a bigger family, you can’t even think of nowadays.

    Governor Hochul: Are you going to have a bigger family?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: No, it’s — you know.

    [Laughter]

    Governor Hochul: I didn’t want to pry.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: People that consider a bigger family, they have got to think twice, you know?

    Governor Hochul: Yeah, they do. Cost of child care, in some cases, is as much as a first year of college education in a public university or college. Right? I mean, it’s so much — such a big chunk out of family’s lives and so, we’re very focused on that. You know, everything you’re talking about is not unique to you, and a lot of it is out of your control — pandemic, and inflation, and now tariffs are making all the products that even go into the less expensive stores like Walmart or Target; those products are coming from China and there’s now additional costs on them because of the tariffs. So it’s just all adding up. And, I know you feel it, right?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Yeah, a hundred percent. Can of all the awful things that we wish —

    Karolina Kolodziejczyk: It’s going up.

    Governor Hochul: Yeah. And the bills, utility bills and everything. Well, we’re focused on that in government to put you on my Budget. I just wrapped it up and I think it’ll be done another day officially — I’ve been done with my priorities for a little while. I really wanted to figure out a way to put money back in people’s pockets, and it’s people like you — I’ve been thinking about that. Again, none of this you asked for; you came here in search of the American Dream all the way from Poland — that joy of home ownership, which is becoming too rare for people, especially here in Long Island because it’s so expensive. You’re raising your boys here and that’s all good, but sometimes it all feels like it just comes crashing down.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Yeah, every month, the first, you’ve got to pay the mortgage, there’s a tax bill comes in, there’s insurance, repairs around the house. So, yeah, it’s definitely —

    Governor Hochul: So my goal is to put more money back in your pockets. I talked about my priorities back when I announced my Budget. I said, “Your family is my fight,” as your executive — families that I’m thinking about. So we have found a way, working with the Legislature, to first of all have a middle class tax cut, which will benefit about 80 percent of people on Long Island. About 1.3 million will be able to get part of this tax cut. We also are looking at families like yours, and we just talked about how expensive they are, they outgrow everything. So for families with four-year-olds or under, we’ll give a $1,000 direct rebate to you, and for the kids that are over four, $500.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Wow, that’s great.

    Governor Hochul: Sound good?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Yeah, we could definitely use it. Definitely use it.

    Governor Hochul: What would you do with that?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Oh, definitely we are going to spend it on first needs — stuff that is needed for the kids. And the summer is coming so we, obviously you want to spend some time with the kids. So maybe that will let us take some time off and maybe go spend more time with the kids doing a little bit, out of trouble.

    Governor Hochul: That’s not all. We have the inflation rebate. What does that mean? Because you paid so much more over the last few years because everything was higher, we collected more at the state level because of the sales tax. Right? So sales tax — we collected more so we had this surplus there, which some would say we should spend on other things, or some would say we should just stash away. And I said, “No, this is not our money. It belongs to you because you had to pay more. You didn’t ask for that.” And so, the money we accumulated there we were able to give a family like yours an additional $400.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Wow.

    Governor Hochul: So $400 there, and in school districts where they don’t cover the school lunches and breakfast, we’re going to pay for that so children that are struggling and their parents don’t have the money to cover it, they won’t feel a stigma. The kids that have to get it subsidized will be able to get it covered. That’s about $1,600 a year that you can either pay for the school lunch with that, or you can — you won’t have to pay this, it’s free — or you can just not have to make the sandwiches anymore. You won’t have to buy the peanut butter and jelly and all those things that are part of your shopping basket that you don’t have to buy now, and all the little snacks. So when your kids are both school aged, that’ll be $3,200 that you don’t have to spend right there

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: That’s great. That’s big.

    Governor Hochul: And then a tax rate — the largest middle class tax rate decrease in 70 years. So we’re going to work cutting middle class taxes, the direct rebates, the Child Tax Credit, covering school lunches and breakfasts, and we have calculated, for a family like yours, it should add up to about $5,000 back in your pockets. So that’s the whole goal of my Budget. Was public safety, keeping everybody safe, but also realizing —

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: There’s a middle class that needs help.

    Governor Hochul: There’s a middle class that needs help, and we get that, and we want you to keep being successful and not have all these stresses that you have. I can’t take them away from you, but maybe just help a little bit. Right?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Of course.

    Karolina Kolodziejczyk: I really appreciate it.

    Governor Hochul: Anything else you need me to know as I head back to Albany and finish up our work?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: No, we really appreciated that you remember about the middle class because there’s so many of us around here, not only us, but there’re people that really need that help.

    Governor Hochul: Yeah, people come here, especially our immigrants, people who are living here because you want to contribute and have a better life and build a business and expand that. When I come back someday you’re going to have a big business, lots of employees working all over Long Island.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Hopefully. Hopefully.

    Governor Hochul: Well, Kamil and Karolina, it has been a pleasure just to just catch up with you a little bit, and this is a great reminder to me of why we do what we do and reminds me who we’re fighting for.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Thank you. We appreciate that you remembered and took your time to come and visit us.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy in the Washington Times: Congress must help Trump admin hold IMF accountable

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)
    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, penned this op-ed in the Washington Times arguing that Congress must step up to help the Trump administration hold the International Monetary Fund (IMF) accountable for its dangerous lending practices.
    Key excerpts of the op-ed are below:
    “Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent recently argued that the United States must play a bigger role in global multinational organizations such as the International Monetary Fund, not a smaller role. He’s right, and Congress needs to join in this effort.
    “For several years, the IMF has acted more like a social justice fan club than a financial institution. It has strayed far from its original mission of promoting global monetary cooperation and economic stability by focusing on gender issues and climate change.
    “However, the problems at the IMF extend well beyond a failure to adhere to its mission. By making irresponsible lending decisions, the IMF has actively facilitated global instability by doling out billions of dollars to countries that promote terrorism and genocide.”
    . . .
    “Given that the U.S. is the IMF’s single largest financial contributor, this allocation was essentially a handout funded by American taxpayers to many countries that hate us. China received a roughly $38.3 billion dividend, Russia collected $16.2 billion, and Iran raked in $4.5 billion.”
    . . .
    “I introduced the No Dollars for Dictators Act to require congressional approval before a single penny’s worth of funding from the IMF goes to perpetrators of genocide or state sponsors of terrorism. Congress cannot sit on the sidelines while American tax dollars pour into the pockets of terrorists and dictators.
    “The Biden administration showed the world what chaos can unfold when the U.S. fails to put its interests first. The Trump administration is right to remind the IMF and organizations like it that America’s interests will not take a back seat to the whims of activists.”
    Read Kennedy’s full op-ed here.  Full text of the No Dollars for Dictators Act of 2025 is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ricketts, Kim Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Evaluate National Security Impacts of Federal Purchasing Standards

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Andy Kim (D-NJ) introduced the bipartisan Safe and Smart Federal Purchasing Act. This bill evaluates the national security implications of current federal purchasing standards.
    “Federal procurement processes should be efficient, but they shouldn’t risk our national security,” said Ricketts. “Our bipartisan bill will review current processes and make necessary suggestions to keep Americans safe from threats, like Communist China. The House unanimously passed legislation earlier this year. We should do the same here in the Senate.”
    “As people look out to an ever evolving and uncertain world, they should be able to trust their government is putting our nation’s security and Americans’ safety at the forefront of federal operations and standards,” said Senator Kim. “This legislation would help ensure we are living up to that responsibility as federal agencies go about the federal procurement process.”
    The Safe and Smart Federal Purchasing Act requires the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to evaluate the procurement process of federal agencies to determine whether the Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) source selection process creates any national security risks. The Director of OMB must then report the results of this evaluation to appropriate congressional committees within 180 days of the legislation’s enactment.
    BACKGROUND
    LPTA provisions of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) are a source selection process that allows federal agencies to select the lowest evaluated price that meets minimum performance requirements. LPTA criteria are not always appropriate for agencies seeking complex or technically innovative services. The criteria can result in agencies sacrificing long term value for short term savings. This bill ensures that LPTA will not be used in a manner that results in agencies cutting corners or jeopardizing national security.
    The Safe and Smart Federal Purchasing Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously (417-0) on March 3rd, 2025. Last Congress, it passed the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability with a vote of 43-0, passed the U.S. House of Representatives with a vote of 397-0, and passed the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs with a vote of 10-0.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Tribunal Initiates Expiry Review—Carbon Steel Screws from China and Chinese Taipei

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Ottawa, Ontario, May 5, 2025—The Canadian International Trade Tribunal today initiated an expiry review of its order made on September 2, 2020, in expiry review RR‑2019‑002, to determine if the expiry of the order is likely to lead to continued or resumed dumping of certain carbon steel fasteners originating in or exported from the People’s Republic of China and the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu, and the subsidizing of such products originating in or exported from the People’s Republic of China and is likely to result in injury to the domestic industry.

    No later than October 2, 2025, the Canada Border Services Agency will determine if there is a likelihood of resumed or continued dumping or subsidizing. In the event of a positive determination, the Tribunal will determine, no later than March 11, 2026, whether the continued or resumed dumping or subsidizing is likely to result in injury to the domestic industry.

    The Tribunal is an independent quasi-judicial body that reports to Parliament through the Minister of Finance. It hears cases on dumped and subsidized imports, safeguard complaints, complaints about federal government procurement and appeals of customs and excise tax rulings. When requested by the federal government, the Tribunal also provides advice on other economic, trade and tariff matters.

    Any interested person, association or government that wishes to participate in the Tribunal’s expiry review may do so by filing Form I—Notice of Participation. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Boat Washes Ashore in California, At Least 3 Dead, 9 Missing

    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

    Xinhua | 06. 05. 2025

    Keywords: listed, people, died, boat, washed up, news, shore, less, california, american state of california, monday morning, at least, reported, march, authorities

    LOS ANGELES, May 5 (Xinhua) — At least three people were killed and nine others were missing after a boat washed ashore near Del Mar in the U.S. state of California on Monday morning, local authorities said. -0-

    Source: Xinhua

    Boat Washes Ashore in California, At Least 3 Dead, 9 Missing Boat Washes Ashore in California, At Least 3 Dead, 9 Missing

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Asian Development Bank has provided Georgia with a 98 million euro loan for an energy saving and clean hydrogen project

    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

    Tbilisi, May 5 (Xinhua) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has provided Georgia with a 98 million euro (about 110.7 million U.S. dollars) loan for an energy conservation and clean hydrogen sector development project, the Georgian Finance Ministry said on Monday.

    As specified by the department, the loan agreement was signed by the Minister of Finance of Georgia Lasha Khutsishvili and the head of the ADB Resident Mission in Georgia Leslie Berman Lam.

    The project includes the installation of a climate-friendly energy storage system (BESS) at the Ksani substation in eastern Georgia, exploration of opportunities for the production and use of green hydrogen, practical training in the operation of the BESS, and exchange of technical knowledge with Georgian State Electricity System.

    The implementation of the project will ensure increased sustainability, flexibility and security of the Georgian power system, improve the quality of energy supply, and contribute to the country’s energy independence.

    ADB’s Georgia-related portfolio currently stands at about $5.1 billion. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese cinema box office exceeds 740 million yuan during May Day holiday

    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 5 (Xinhua) — Chinese movie theaters earned more than 740 million yuan (about 102 million U.S. dollars) in box office revenue during the five-day national holiday to mark International Labor Day that ended Monday, according to data from Chinese ticketing platform Maoyan.

    The chart was topped by director Andrew Lau’s “Dumpling Queen,” which grossed more than 190 million yuan. The film tells the story of a Hong Kong street food vendor who creates a popular frozen food brand.

    Second place went to financial crime thriller Money Hunt. The film about high-stakes fraud and market manipulation earned more than 133 million yuan.

    In third place was the Ghibli animation film Princess Mononoke, which grossed more than 69 million yuan. Hayao Miyazaki’s ecological epic, released in Japan in 1997, became an international hit. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Obernolte introduces legislation to bolster U.S. critical mineral supply chain

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jay Obernolte (R-Hesperia)

    WASHINGTON, DC–U.S. Representative Jay Obernolte (CA-23) has introducedlegislation to reduce the United States’ reliance on China and other foreign nations forcritical minerals. Critical minerals and rare earth metals are used to manufactureconsumer electronics, military equipment, electric vehicle batteries, and other advancedtechnologies vital to America’s homeland security and economic competitiveness. Chinais currently the largest source for more than half of the critical minerals on the U.S.Geological Survey’s 2022 list. The Intergovernmental Critical Minerals Task Force Actwould address this concern by identifying opportunities to increase the domesticproduction and recycling of critical minerals.“Critical minerals are essential to our economy, our national security, and thedevelopment of our country’s energy grid,” saidRep. Jay Obernolte.“TheIntergovernmental Critical Minerals Task Force will bring stakeholders together toidentify how we canenhance our supply chains and shore up production of criticalminerals here at home.”“Access to critical minerals is essential for our national security and energy grid. Ourbipartisan bill will identify new ways to reduce our dependency on foreign nations likeChina for critical minerals,” saidCongresswoman Susie Lee (NV-3). “We can’t affordany disruptions to our critical mineral supply chain.”This legislation requires the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director toappoint representatives from federal agencies to consult with state, local, and tribalgovernments. The Task Force will work to determine how to address national securityrisks associated with America’s critical mineral supply chains and identify new domesticopportunities for mining,processing, refinement, reuse, and recycling of critical minerals. Thebillalso requiresthe Task Force to send a report to Congress and publishfindings, guidelines, and recommendationson reducingthe United States’ reliance onChina and other foreign nations for critical minerals.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Vice Premier Calls for All Measures to Treat Victims of Sightseeing Boat Crash in Southwest 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

    GUIYANG, May 5 (Xinhua) — Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing on Monday called for all-out efforts to rescue and treat people injured in the multiple ship sinking incident in southwest China’s Guizhou Province.

    On the afternoon of May 4, a sudden strong wind caused four boats to capsize on a river in Qianxi City, leaving 84 people in the water. By 12:45 p.m. Monday, all the victims had been found: 10 people were dead, 70 were injured, and four were uninjured.

    Zhang Guoqing, who is also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, went to the scene of the tragedy and then to a local hospital to direct rescue work and provide medical assistance.

    At a meeting early Monday morning, he called for medical professionals and resources to be properly deployed to treat the injured to minimize the number of deaths and disabilities due to injuries. The vice premier also called for comprehensive support for the families of the victims.

    Zhang Guoqing required strengthening the implementation of safety management responsibility measures, including accident prevention, identification of hidden dangers and elimination of deficiencies, to effectively prevent and minimize major accidents.

    As the vice-premier of the Chinese government emphasized, it is necessary to focus on key areas such as tourist attractions, large public facilities, residential areas and transportation routes, and identify and eliminate hidden risks based on the lessons learned from previous incidents.

    To ensure people’s safety, it is necessary to strengthen weather monitoring and early warning systems for adverse weather conditions, strengthen mechanisms for responding to early warnings and coordinating emergency operations, and strictly implement measures to restrict visits to tourist sites and navigation of passenger ships during bad weather, Zhang Guoqing added. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Romanian Prime Minister Announces Resignation

    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

    Xinhua | 06. 05. 2025

    Keywords: minister of romania, prime minister, resignation, announced, apartment of the romanian social, ruling coalition, democratic party, headquarters, ciolacu, monday, will leave

    BUCHAREST, May 5 (Xinhua) — Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu announced his resignation at the headquarters of the Romanian Social Democratic Party (PSD) on Monday.

    The SDP he leads will also leave the ruling coalition. –0–

    Source: Xinhua

    Romanian Prime Minister Announces Resignation Romanian Prime Minister Announces Resignation

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China-Egypt “Eagles of Civilization 2025” joint air force training wraps up 2025-05-05 23:32:12 The China-Egypt “Eagles of Civilization 2025” joint air force training concluded at an Egyptian air force base on the morning of May 4, 2025.

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

      By Liu Jimei and Yu Hongchun

      CAIRO, May 5 — The China-Egypt “Eagles of Civilization 2025” joint air force training concluded at an Egyptian air force base on the morning of May 4, 2025.

      This joint training is the first time that the Chinese PLA Air Force has dispatched its various types of troops to Africa to systematical conduct the joint training, demonstrating the long-range force projection, agile force deployment and systematic combat capabilities of the Chinese PLA Air Force.

      During the 18-day joint training, the two sides conducted discussions and exchanges on such topics as training mode, air combat tactics, and aerial refueling operations. Participating troops from both sides completed training subjects including counterair operations, suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD), battlefield search and rescue, and mixed grouping, marking a new starting point and milestone for the military cooperation between the two countries.

    loading…

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi’s historical insights into war and peace 2025-05-06 01:17:07 As the top Chinese leader travels to Moscow to celebrate the 80th anniversary of victory in the Great Patriotic War, his presence both carries the weight of history and reaffirms a vision of the future.

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

    Chinese President Xi Jinping watches the military parade during the commemoration activities to mark the 70th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 3, 2015. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)

    BEIJING, May 5 (Xinhua) — In the stately Conference Building at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, a 65-inch-tall resplendent bronze vessel gleams under soft light, its cloisonne enamel blazing in vibrant Chinese red.

    The “Zun of Peace,” presented by Chinese President Xi Jinping in September 2015 as a special gift for the United Nations’ 70th anniversary, is not merely a delicate artifact. It embodies the aspiration and conviction of the Chinese people to seek peace, development, cooperation and win-win outcomes, Xi said at its unveiling.

    A decade later, as the top Chinese leader travels to Moscow to celebrate the 80th anniversary of victory in the Great Patriotic War, his presence both carries the weight of history and reaffirms a vision of the future.

    Leading a nation always aspiring for peace and harmony in its long history and further strengthened by its battles against militarism, imperialism and fascism in its recent past, Xi commands a unique insight into the value of peace, and has steadfastly championed the building of a peaceful world, a cause of great urgency given the tensions and conflicts on the global landscape today.

    Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) attends a presentation ceremony on which the Chinese government gives the “Zun of Peace” to the United Nations as a gift in New York, the United States, Sept. 27, 2015. (Xinhua/Li Tao)

    Xi sees history as a mirror from which humanity should draw lessons to avoid repeating past calamities.

    This year marks the 80th anniversary of victory in what is commonly known in China as the World Anti-Fascist War or, more globally, as World War II. Almost every part of the world was involved, and more than 100 million were killed or wounded in what was described as the most destructive conflict in human history.

    The bravery and tremendous sacrifice of the Chinese people played a decisive role in defeating Fascist Japan and offered strategic support to the Allies on the European and Pacific battlefields.

    “History has told us to stay on high alert against war, which, like a demon and nightmare, would bring disaster and pain to the people,” Xi once said. “History has also told us to preserve peace with great care, as peace, like air and sunshine, is hardly noticed when people are benefiting from it, but none of us can live without it.”

    This historical observation features prominently in Xi’s unrelenting pursuit of peace. He has repeatedly reiterated China’s commitment to peaceful development, pledging that China will never seek hegemony, expansion or any sphere of influence, no matter how strong it may grow.

    During a 2014 visit to France, Xi reshaped Napoleon’s metaphor of China as a “sleeping lion” that would shake the world upon awakening. “Now China the lion has awakened. But it is a peaceful, amicable and civilized lion,” Xi said when illustrating the peaceful dimension of the Chinese Dream.

    Xi’s philosophy stems from the millennia-old Chinese culture. An avid reader of traditional Chinese classics, he once expounded how ancient Chinese wisdom views war and peace by quoting “The Art of War,” a Chinese classic written more than 2,000 years ago.

    The book’s key message “is that every effort should be made to prevent a war and great caution must be exercised when it comes to fighting a war,” Xi said when delivering a keynote speech in the UN Office at Geneva in 2017.

    Xi’s view on prudence in warfare is also reflected in his exchanges with foreign leaders and officials.

    “It has long been known that the real experts on military affairs do not want to employ military means to solve issues,” he quoted a Chinese aphorism when meeting with then U.S. Secretary of Defense James Mattis in Beijing in 2018.

    Chinese President Xi Jinping straightens the ribbon on a flower basket during a ceremony to present flower baskets to fallen heroes at Tian’anmen Square in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 30, 2024. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

    A clear manifestation of Xi’s reflection is to cherish history and honor heroes. “A nation of hope cannot be without heroes,” Xi once said. Every year since 2014, Xi has paid tribute to China’s fallen heroes on Martyrs’ Day, which falls on Sept. 30, a day ahead of the country’s National Day.

    In 2015, when China celebrated the 70th anniversary of its victory in World War II, Xi presented medals to Chinese veterans and representatives from Russia and other countries who assisted Chinese soldiers on the battlefields.

    Nikolai Chuikov, the grandson of Soviet General Marshal Vasily Chuikov, was among those who received a peace medal from Xi. “Of all the honors I have won, I hold the highest regard for the peace medal,” he said.

    Chinese President Xi Jinping (R, front) shakes hands with a Russian veteran in Moscow, Russia, on May 8, 2015. (Xinhua/Zhang Duo)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Record Number of Overseas Buyers Attend 137th Guangzhou Fair

    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

    GUANGZHOU, May 5 (Xinhua) — The 137th China Import and Export Fair (Guangzhou or Canton Fair) concluded Monday in Guangzhou, capital of southern China’s Guangdong Province. More than 288,000 overseas buyers attended the event, according to organizers.

    This is an increase of 17.3 percent over the previous year and a new historical record. 171,750 buyers visited the fair for the first time. The number of buyers from countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative reached 187,450, an increase of 17.4 percent over the previous year, accounting for 64.9 percent of the total number of overseas buyers.

    The fair also attracted more than 527,000 online buyers from 229 countries and regions around the world.

    A total of 4.55 million exhibits were displayed, including 1.02 million new products, 880 thousand green and low-carbon products, and 320 thousand smart products.

    The first-ever service robotics zone became the highlight of the fair, with 46 Chinese manufacturers exhibiting more than 500 cutting-edge robots covering 60 industrial applications.

    Established in 1957, the Guangzhou Fair is held twice a year. It is the longest-running comprehensive international trade event in China and serves as an important indicator of China’s foreign trade situation. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: CDU/CSU and SPD leaders sign agreement to form new coalition government in Germany

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BERLIN, May 5 (Xinhua) — The leaders of the conservative Christian Democratic Union and Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU) bloc and the center-left Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD) signed a coalition agreement on Monday, paving the way for the formation of a new federal government in Germany.

    Under the coalition pact, finally agreed in April after weeks of negotiations, the parties pledge to increase Germany’s economic competitiveness, strengthen national defence and tighten migration policy.

    The CDU/CSU, informally referred to as the “Union Parties” or “the Union”, is a conservative political alliance of two German political parties.

    On May 6, the Bundestag, Germany’s unicameral parliament, is expected to elect CDU leader Friedrich Merz as chancellor of Germany.

    Following the election of F. Merz, his government will begin work, ending the current administration led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz. SPD co-chairman Lars Klingbeil will take up the post of vice-chancellor in the new government. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Pakistan, Iran reaffirm commitment to regional peace and stability

    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

    ISLAMABAD, May 5 (Xinhua) — Pakistan and Iran on Monday reaffirmed their commitment to regional peace and stability, vowing to strengthen bilateral cooperation in key areas including trade, energy, border security and regional connectivity.

    As noted in a statement by the Pakistani Foreign Ministry, the parties reaffirmed their positions during a meeting between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar in Islamabad.

    The parties discussed a wide range of regional and international developments, noting the importance of close coordination to overcome common challenges and develop strategic cooperation.

    A. Araghchi reiterated Tehran’s firm desire to expand bilateral ties with Pakistan in all areas. M. I. Dar, in turn, emphasized the deep historical, cultural and religious ties between the two neighboring countries.

    Reiterating Pakistan’s principled stand in the fight against terrorism, M. I. Dar said his country has made significant sacrifices in the global battle against terrorism and remains committed to combating extremism in all its forms. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Kazakhstan is developing production of strategically important petrochemical products

    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 5 (Xinhua) — Kazakhstan is actively developing the petrochemical industry and entering industrial production of key types of products, the Kazinform news agency reported on Monday, citing Kazakh Energy Minister Yerlan Akkenzhenov.

    According to him, in November 2022, the Kazakhstan Petrochemical Industries Inc /KPI/ plant for the production of polypropylene with a capacity of 500 thousand tons per year was launched. The KPI plant is the first integrated gas chemical complex in Kazakhstan.

    As E. Akkenzhenov said, by the end of 2024, the plant produced about 250 thousand tons of polypropylene. Today, the enterprise produces 12 grades of polypropylene for the production of various products, including sacks, consumer packaging, carpets, and disposable tableware. By the end of this year, it is planned to launch the production of 2 new grades of polypropylene.

    It was previously reported that on March 31, 2025, construction of a polyethylene production plant “Silleno” was launched in the special economic zone “National Industrial Petrochemical Technopark” in the Atyrau region. The construction of the plant with a capacity of 1.25 million tons of polyethylene per year is planned to be completed in 2028, and the launch of production is scheduled for 2029.

    According to the minister, 49.2 percent of early construction work to prepare the site has been completed to date, and excavation work has begun to develop pits for the pyrolysis plant. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Special Report: China-Russia Humanitarian Exchanges Help Two Nations Bring People Closer and Know Each Other Better

    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 5 (Xinhua) — From the Russian-Chinese joint film “Red Silk” that became a box office hit in Russia to the new version of the opera “Eugene Onegin” created by artists from both countries that debuted successfully in China; from the Chinese New Year celebration that “lit up” Moscow to the traditional Russian events held in many parts of China to celebrate Maslenitsa, humanitarian exchanges have become an important bridge for deepening China-Russia relations, enhancing mutual understanding between the two civilizations and promoting people-to-people exchanges.

    2024-2025 have been declared the Years of Culture of China and Russia. As part of the years of culture, hundreds of events are being held in various regions of the two countries, which contribute to deepening friendship and bringing their peoples closer together.

    LANGUAGE BRIDGES THE GAP

    “My name is Maria. I am studying Chinese. Nice to meet you.” A young woman approached a reporter on the banks of the Moscow River in the Russian capital. After clarifying in Russian that the reporter was Chinese, she switched to Chinese to introduce herself.

    Maria is a second-year law student at Moscow University and spends her free time studying Chinese language and culture. With a smile on her face, she admitted that she doesn’t speak Chinese well yet, but hopes to continue her studies. According to Maria, although Chinese is difficult, it sounds beautiful, and Chinese culture is very colorful and charming.

    In recent years, Russia has seen a “Chinese language boom.” Now, on the streets of Moscow, you can increasingly hear friendly greetings in Chinese: “Nihao” /”Hello,” “Shi zhongguoren ma?” /”Are you from China?”/, “Huanyi,” /”Welcome,” “Zai jian” /”Goodbye,”… Seeing Asian facial features, many Russians begin to greet in Chinese.

    “We have witnessed the popularization of Chinese culture and language: they are studied in schools, universities and at other educational levels,” says Ilya Gutin, senior lecturer at the Department of Chinese, Vietnamese, Burmese, Thai, Lao and Khmer Languages at MGIMO University of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia.

    According to statistics, there are currently over 140 universities and over 220 primary and secondary schools offering Chinese language programs in Russia. There are also 19 Confucius Institutes and five Confucius Classrooms, as well as other additional educational institutions teaching Chinese. About 110,000 people in Russia study Chinese, and it has already become a second foreign language. In China, there are over 180 colleges and universities offering Russian language programs, and about 120,000 people study Russian in primary and secondary schools and universities.

    At the same time, the two countries jointly established such cooperation projects as the Project of “10 Chinese and 10 Russian Outstanding Figures in Humanitarian Cooperation”, the Program for the Construction of Joint Chinese-Russian Scientific and Educational Centers, the Program for the Development of Chinese-Russian Associations of Specialized Universities. “Support was provided to universities in implementing joint educational programs, the scale of student exchanges between the two countries was expanded, summer schools for university students were jointly organized, cooperation in the field of professional education was carried out, which contributed to strengthening mutual understanding and friendship between young people.

    “2024-2025, declared the cross years of culture between Russia and China, have opened up new opportunities for deepening cultural and educational ties,” said I. Gutin.

    ART UNITES PEOPLE

    The Chinese dance drama “Wing Chun: The Legend of the Kung Fu Master” was recently shown to great acclaim at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. The fusion of Chinese kung fu and dance received thunderous applause, as well as wide attention and high praise from the Russian media.

    According to Russian media, the dance performance “Wing Chun” is a story of heroes from the people based on the traditional martial art of Lingnan. The performance combines dance, martial arts and cinematic storytelling, telling the spiritual journey of Chinese kung fu to global recognition.

    In recent years, the “Chinese wind” has been blowing in Russia. Chinese works such as the play “I Didn’t Kill My Husband,” the symphony “Ode to the Red Flag,” and the dance-poetic drama “Only This Greenery” have sparkled on Russian stages, demonstrating the unique charm of Chinese culture.

    Meanwhile, a number of classic works of Russian art were presented on the stages of China. The ballets “Swan Lake”, “Sleeping Beauty”, “The Nutcracker” reflected the true “Russian aesthetics”. Theatrical, ballet and musical interpretations of such famous Russian literary works in China as “Anna Karenina” and “War and Peace” gave the audience an unforgettable experience. The Central Opera House of China and Russian artists presented a modern production of the world classic – the opera “Eugene Onegin”, breathing new life into the literary classic and emphasizing the strength of interaction between the cultures of China and Russia.

    Wang Ning, director of the National Center for the Performing Arts of China, noted that many world-famous Russian art institutions have come to China to perform, which not only conveys the essence of Russian national culture to the Chinese audience, but also gives Russian artists the opportunity to feel and understand China.

    “Artistic exchange, by influencing the eyes and ears, helps the people of the two countries gain an understanding of each other’s culture and become closer psychologically,” he concluded.

    TOURISM STRENGTHENS FRIENDSHIP

    “Going abroad for breakfast and coming back home” sounds almost unbelievable, but in the city of Heihe in northeastern China’s Heilongjiang Province, it has become routine.

    Heihe is located across the river from Blagoveshchensk, the capital of Russia’s Amur region. With the resumption of visa-free group tours between China and Russia, “cross-border tourism” is rapidly gaining popularity. Every morning, many Russians head to Heihe in groups for the morning market, shopping, and tasting of Dongbei breakfast: youtiao (deep-fried dough sticks), soy milk, eggs boiled in seasoned tea, and egg burgers. They even came up with their own original breakfast — baozi (steamed buns) and beer.

    “I just went to the dentist, bought some household goods, and now I’m going to have lunch at a restaurant. Ten minutes by boat and I’ll be home – very convenient,” says Ekaterina from Blagoveshchensk with a smile, adding that she often comes to Heihe, and although she doesn’t speak Chinese, there are signs in Russian in the city, and many vendors speak a little Russian.

    In recent years, thanks to improved transport accessibility and visa relaxations, the number of Russian tourists in China has been steadily growing. Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Sanya, Chengdu, Qinhuangdao — the list of favorite tourist destinations for Russians in China is constantly expanding.

    While Russian tourists enjoy the beauty and cuisine of China, Chinese travelers are increasingly discovering the vast expanses of Russia. According to the Association of Tour Operators of Russia /ATOR/, in 2024 the number of Chinese tourists in Russia reached 848 thousand people, which is 4.2 times more than in 2023. In addition to Moscow and St. Petersburg, the Chinese are increasingly choosing Murmansk, Novosibirsk, Irkutsk and other cities for travel.

    To make the stay of Chinese tourists more comfortable, airports and major tourist attractions in a number of Russian cities have signs in Chinese, and popular restaurants have menus in Chinese. As part of the Years of Chinese and Russian Culture, Moscow has hosted the “Chinese New Year in Moscow” festival for two years in a row. A number of events were organized — theatrical performances, master classes, lectures, film screenings, and tea ceremonies.

    “As part of the cross-years, it is planned to hold a series of cultural events in both countries. The festival in honor of the Chinese New Year will be the first in a series of events,” said Deputy Mayor of Moscow Natalya Sergunina. According to her, China is one of the promising areas for the development of tourism and partnership relations in general. “We expect that this year, thanks to joint programs, the mutual tourist flow will continue to grow,” said N. Sergunina.

    At the same time, the Chinese cities of Beijing and Xi’an celebrated Maslenitsa: “Farewell to the Russian winter in China.” During the events, Chinese residents tried Russian pancakes and got acquainted with the traditions of folk festivities.

    “We recently celebrated the Spring Festival in Moscow with our Chinese friends. It was not just a celebration, but a real celebration of culture and friendship,” said Boris Titov, Chairman of the Russian section of the Russian-Chinese Committee for Friendship, Peace and Development, noting that cross-cultural Years emphasize the importance of dialogue and mutual understanding between different cultural traditions, and also help to expand the horizons of mutual perception and respect. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Large-scale tour of Russian art to take place in China in May and June

    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 5 (Xinhua) — As part of the ongoing China-Russia Cross-Cultural Years, large-scale tours of Russian art will take place in Chinese cities in May and June.

    The program will open at the Bolshoi Theater on May 7-11. A gala concert of ballet stars will be held in Beijing, and the legendary performance “Sleeping Beauty” to the music of Pyotr Tchaikovsky with choreography by Yuri Grigorovich will be presented. This production is rightfully considered the calling card of all Russian ballet. The Bolshoi Theater tour will end with a gala concert in Shenzhen.

    From June 21 to 29, the St. Petersburg Philharmonic named after D. D. Shostakovich will give a series of concerts in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Wuhan. Chinese audiences will hear Sergei Prokofiev’s First Piano Concerto and one of the most famous and frequently performed classical works in the world, Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1, as well as two symphonies by Dmitry Shostakovich – the Sixth and the famous Leningrad Symphony No. 7, created during the Great Patriotic War.

    In the summer, the National Museum of China in Beijing plans to open an exhibition of the Tretyakov Gallery “Ilya Repin. Faces of Russia”.

    As Natalia Kochneva, Senior Vice President of VTB Bank, which regularly supports Russian groups’ tours in China, noted in a conversation with a Xinhua correspondent, art can unite people of different cultures. “We appreciate that Russian art is expanding its fan base around the world, and our cooperation with China is growing into a great story. The Cross Years of Culture 2024-2025 of the two countries are especially important for us, as they open up additional opportunities for strengthening ties in various areas of culture and help make even more people fall in love with Russian and Chinese art,” she said. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Special Report: The People Will Never Forget – Chinese-Russian Friendship Passed Down from Generation to Generation

    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/Chongqing, May 5 (Xinhua) — The Yangtze River flows swiftly in Wanzhou District of Chongqing Municipality, southwest China, not far from the Three Gorges Dam. There is a quiet cemetery in the picturesque Xishan Park. Under the shade of pine and cypress trees, a white dove of peace spreads its wings on a marble tombstone, preparing to take off, while a fighter jet pierces the sky.

    The monument is engraved with an inscription in Russian and Chinese: “Here lie the ashes of the commander of the Soviet volunteer air squadron, who died heroically in the war of the Chinese people against the Japanese invaders, Grigory Akimovich Kulishenko /1903-1939/. July 7, 1958.” A bronze bust of the hero is installed in front of the tombstone.

    “When the war of resistance against the Japanese invaders was going on, Soviet Air Force Captain G. Kulishenko arrived in China to fight side by side with the Chinese people. “I am experiencing the misfortune of the Chinese workers as if I were experiencing the misfortune of my homeland,” he said with feeling. The pilot died heroically on Chinese soil. The Chinese people have not forgotten the hero, and ordinary Chinese people – mother and son – have been guarding his grave for more than half a century,” – during his visit to Russia in 2013, Chinese Chairman Xi Jinping told the story of G. Kulishenko with deep emotion, speaking at MGIMO.

    Today, tall and majestic camphor trees grow around G. Kulishenko’s tombstone, planted by Chinese cemetery guardians many years ago.

    “IT IS OUR DUTY”

    After the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression entered the phase of a conflict of attrition, Kulishenko and his colleagues led two squadrons of DB-3 heavy bombers (the pilots affectionately called them “Dasha”) to Chengdu. Liu Qun, who worked as a translator for Kulishenko at the time, wrote an article in which he recalled that this “heavenly warrior” had a simple face and a strong build, “slightly black hair, the color of the eyes like those of the Chinese, thick eyebrows and tall stature” and was somewhat similar to a Shandong resident (a resident of Shandong, one of the provinces of China – Xinhua note).

    In addition to carrying out air strikes against the Japanese army, Kulishenko also had the important task of training Chinese pilots. Liu Qun says that before each flight, he would explain to each Chinese pilot the daily flight program, the aircraft control method, etc. Before sitting in the front cockpit, he would watch the other pilots sit in the control cabin and press the brake. Kulishenko also gave detailed comments after landing and sometimes flew three or four flights in a row as an instructor to correct mistakes. “I never saw him show the slightest impatience or fear of difficulties in front of the young pilots who were learning to fly,” Liu Qun writes.

    On October 14, 1939, G. Kulishenko, leading a bomber group of the volunteer air force to aid China, raided the Japanese airfield in Hankou, causing heavy losses to the Japanese army. On the way back, he was intercepted by the enemy. The Soviet pilot received gunshot wounds to the chest and left shoulder. The enemy also hit one of the engines of his bomber. In order to protect the planes and people on the ground, G. Kulishenko refused to jump with a parachute and decided to make an emergency landing on the Yangtze in the Chenjiaba area of Wanxian County /now Wanzhou District of Chongqing – Xinhua note/. Two of his comrades swam to the shore, but the wounded Kulishenko was carried away by the current, and he died a heroic death.

    Upon learning of this, the residents of Wanxian, without any agreement, set out to search along the river and 20 days later found the pilot’s body more than 10 kilometers from the crash site. They held a memorial service and a funeral according to Chinese custom.

    In 1958, the Wanxian County People’s Government built a special cemetery for G. Kulishenko and ceremoniously reburied him. For more than 60 years, Chinese woman Tan Zhonghui took over as the grave’s caretaker, and her son Wei Yingxiang continued the work. “This is our duty, gratitude, and the conscience inherent in the Chinese people,” Wei Yingxiang said. He told reporters that his greatest wish is to ensure that the heroes buried in a foreign country are not alone, and that their heroic deeds and stories of friendship are passed down from generation to generation.

    “THE PEACE MEDAL” – “THIS IS ONE OF THE MOST VALUABLE AWARDS FOR ME”

    Nikolai Chuikov, the grandson of Soviet Marshal Vasily Chuikov, emotionally told journalists that he had heard many stories similar to that of Captain G. Kulishenko, and the Chinese people have always had deep feelings for the Soviet heroes buried on Chinese soil. According to him, the Soviet Union helped China fight the Japanese invaders, and China resolutely supported the USSR in the Great Patriotic War. The friendship that arose during the World Anti-Fascist War is a common heritage of both sides, our interlocutor is sure.

    Marshal Vasily Chuikov had close ties to China. He had studied Chinese, was familiar with China’s national characteristics, and visited the country four times. From late 1940 to March 1942, he served as the chief Soviet military adviser in China. The Marshal was directly involved in developing the war plan against Japan and maintained close contacts with the commanders of the Eighth Army and the New Fourth Army, which operated under the CPC.

    On the main battlefield of World War II in Asia, the Chinese people and army fought tenaciously against Japanese aggression, destroyed and tied up a large number of Japanese aggressor forces. With the sacrifice of 35 million lives, they finally won a great victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and made a great contribution to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War.

    N. Chuikov, 65, heard many stories about China from his grandfather as a child. For many years, he has been devoted to promoting good relations between Russia and China and is currently the deputy chairman of the Russian-Chinese Friendship Society. He has a medal that means a lot. In May 2015, during a visit to Russia, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with representatives of Russian veterans and presented them with commemorative medals. N. Chuikov was among them.

    He called the Peace Medal the most valuable award for himself, as it was presented personally by the President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping. Our interlocutor said that he is proud of the medal, which inspires him to work harder.

    “The Chinese and Russian peoples have cemented a deep friendship with their blood and lives, laying a solid foundation for Chinese-Russian relations and friendship between the two peoples for generations,” Xi Jinping’s words at the meeting with veterans made a particularly deep impression on N. Chuikov. “This is also an important reason why relations between Russia and China remain at a high level,” he said.

    In September 2015, he was invited to China to attend the commemorative celebration of the 70th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. The grand military parade was amazing, and China impressed him with its national strength and pace of development, he said.

    Speaking at the anniversary celebration, Xi Jinping said: “Let us firmly remember the great truth of history: Justice wins! Peace wins! The people win!”

    It was unforgettable! – said N. Chuikov. – This is the voice of China, conveying to the world the need to adhere to justice, protect peace and cooperate.

    UNDERSTAND HISTORY AND PASS ON FRIENDSHIP FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION

    The fallen heroes “will never be forgotten by the Russian people, the Chinese people and the peoples of the world,” wrote Chinese President Xi Jinping in an opinion piece published in Rossiyskaya Gazeta 10 years ago, on the eve of his participation in the celebrations of the 70th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War and his visit to the Russian Federation.

    Where they once shared a common hatred of the enemy and fought against aggression, the history of China and Russia fighting side by side touches people even in peacetime. Every Qingming Festival, Chinese people lay flowers at memorial sites in Nanjing, Wuhan, Chongqing, Changchun and elsewhere to show that they have not forgotten. The names of more than 200 Soviet pilot heroes who died resisting Japanese occupation are engraved on a monument in the Nanjing Pilots’ Memorial Hall. During this year’s festival, an elementary school student wrote in childish handwriting, “I want to be a pilot when I grow up,” while an 89-year-old man left a wish, “Peace in the world.”

    “Thank you, Grandpa, for the Victory!” — read the banners on the streets of Moscow in May. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War. For Natalia Khryukina, chairwoman of the Association of Descendants of Volunteer Pilots Who Fought in China in 1937-40, the upcoming May 9 will have a special memorable significance.

    Her father, Timofey Khryukin, was a bomber squadron commander in the Soviet Air Force volunteer squadron that helped China. He flew combat aircraft, fighting the Japanese in the skies over Nanjing, Wuhan, and other places. Returning to the USSR, he fought valiantly in the Great Patriotic War.

    N. Khryukina said that her father described China’s terrain as difficult, with high mountains and numerous gorges. Flying a bomber in such conditions was a difficult test and valuable experience for Soviet pilots of that time. “When my father returned home and went to fight in the North, his Chinese experience was very useful to him,” she recalls.

    According to our interlocutor, her generation grew up listening to songs such as “Russians and Chinese are brothers forever.” The friendship established by the Russian and Chinese peoples who fought side by side is still being passed down from generation to generation without weakening, N. Khryukina emphasized. With close interaction and under the strategic leadership of the leaders of the two countries, Russian-Chinese relations maintain a high level of development, she said.

    In recent years, N. Khryukina has been collecting historical materials, organizing exchange events in primary and secondary schools, and inviting Chinese teenagers to communicate with their Russian peers. This gives young people the opportunity to understand the history of their ancestors’ persistent struggle, to understand the origins of friendship between Russia and China and to continue to pass it on from generation to generation, she is sure. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: ICYMI: “Trump’s Tariffs Are Lifting Some U.S. Manufacturers”

    Source: The White House

    President Donald J. Trump’s relentless pursuit of an American manufacturing renaissance is “boosting demand for some U.S.-made goods, with smaller players reaping the early benefits,” writes The Wall Street Journal, as companies onshore production and buy their products in America.

    Here are a few examples from the story:

    • “‘We are swamped. We are running 24 hours a day, seven days a week in both Chicago and Cleveland,’ said Jack Schron, president of Jergens Inc., which makes manufacturing tools, including industrial screwdrivers, clamps and hoists. Schron said his factories in Ohio and Illinois are ‘going like gangbusters,’ partly owing to new orders from customers looking to avoid paying import tariffs.”
    • “Donny Chaplin, president of Grand River Rubber & Plastics in Ashtabula, Ohio, said he has seen a rush of new inquiries and orders. Two previous customers that had switched to Chinese suppliers a few years ago came back in recent days wanting to buy rubber gaskets from Grand River again, for the plastic pails they manufacture. Three manufacturers of oil filters also got in touch, wanting to shift business from China, with two already placing orders. All together, the new business will be worth about $5 million a year if it is completed, or roughly 10% of Grand River’s revenue. That might require the company to hire new employees and expand production lines.”
    • “The tariffs are a lifeline for the U.S. companies that sprang up during the Covid-19 pandemic to produce face masks, rubber gloves and other personal protective equipment, after shipments from Asia declined. The companies struggled in the pandemic’s aftermath, when hospitals and clinics abandoned U.S. manufacturers and returned to lower-cost suppliers in China, U.S. executives said. But new U.S. tariffs on rubber gloves from China have doubled the price from a few months ago, and ‘the folks that are relying on China are scrambling for other sources,’ said Alan Rust, chief growth officer for SafeSource Direct … ‘We were getting stiffed for a very long time, but just recently we’ve been getting a lot more inquiries.’”
    • “Employees for Massachusetts-based AccuRounds are working overtime to accommodate rising orders for the company’s shafts, valves and other steel components. The company recently added two customers that had shifted business from AccuRounds to suppliers in Singapore and China in recent years. First-quarter sales were 20% higher from a year earlier, said Chief Executive Michael Tamasi.”
    • “Michigan-based Whirlpool, which assembles 80% of its U.S. appliances at domestic factories, says its Asian competitors have had an unfair advantage, as they manufacture their appliances overseas but haven’t been paying import tariffs on them since 2023, when one imposed during Trump’s first term expired. Those rivals’ access to cheaper components and steel in Asia helps give them a $150 retail price advantage on washers, Whirlpool says. Chief Executive Marc Bitzer said the latest tariffs on imported assembled appliances should help close the price gap. ‘The tariffs will finally help create a level playing field for Whirlpool,’ he said in April during a call with analysts.”

    Meanwhile, The Washington Post reports:

    • “At the local Excel Dryer plant, William Gagnon, the chief operating officer, is unfazed. In fact, President Donald Trump’s import taxes so far have been nothing but good news for one of the world’s largest makers of restroom hand dryers. Gagnon, 48, credits Trump’s first-term tariffs with changing the math on production location decisions … the president’s second-term ‘reciprocal’ tariffs might result in the elimination of trade barriers that prevent Excel’s high-velocity hand dryers from dominating markets in countries such as Brazil and Australia … By making foreign goods more expensive, the import taxes make domestic suppliers more competitive while also discouraging Americans from purchasing cheap Chinese copies of Excel’s hand dryers. The tariffs also offer hope of prying open foreign markets … The tariffs Trump imposed on China this year also have brought more work home for one of Excel Dryer’s local suppliers: Double A Molding in Monson, Massachusetts … As Trump escalated his trade spat with China in recent weeks, Double A felt the effects.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: RUBIS: Q1 2025 trading update – Continued strong operating performance of Rubis’ diversified business model

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Paris, 5 May 2025, 5:45pm

    • Energy Distribution
      • Retail & Marketing – Solid volume growth at +4%, gross margin at €218m (+4%)
        • Strong momentum of the retail business both in Africa and in the Caribbean region
        • Bitumen activity performing well in Togo and South Africa – Nigeria volume growth resumes
      • Support & Services – Revenue up 2% at €266m
        • Lower bitumen trading margins as a result of higher in-house activity
    • Renewable Electricity Production
      • Secured portfolio up 22% vs March 2024 at 1.1 GWp
    • No direct impact of trade tariffs on the business
    • 2025 Guidance reaffirmed

    SALES BREAKDOWN BY SEGMENT AND BY REGION

    (in €m) Q1 2025 Q1 2024 Q1 2025
    vs Q1 2024
    Energy Distribution 1,687 1,652 +2%
    Retail & Marketing 1,420 1,392 +2%
    Europe 215 209 +3%
    Caribbean 584 590 -1%
    Africa 621 593 +5%
    Support & Services 266 260 +2%
    Renewable Electricity Production 11 8 +28%
    TOTAL 1,697 1,660 +2%

    On 5 May 2025, Clarisse Gobin-Swiecznik, Managing Partner, commented on the Q1 2025 activity: “Our position as distributor of energy and mobility solutions, leader in a diversity of regions, has once again proved successful. Q1 demonstrates Rubis’ resilience and ability to deliver strong performance in a challenging global environment. Our Energy Distribution businesses achieved robust growth across all regions while Photosol delivered according to plan. Looking ahead, we remain confident in our 2025 guidance, supported by the strength and growth potential of our diverse businesses”

    HIGHLIGHTS

    • No direct impact of trade tariffs on the business

    None of Rubis’ businesses is directly concerned by the trade tariffs turmoil ongoing. The Group does not operate in the US, nor in China.

    • New geographical development: Acquisition of Soida in Angola

    In March 2025, Rubis Énergie acquired 60% of the share capital of Soida (Sociedade Industrial de Derivados Asfálticos), adding to its existing share of 35% acquired at the end of 2022 and leading to a final stake in the Company of 95%. Soida distributes bitumen in Angola with a market share well over 50% and extending further bitumen geographical footprint.

    • Publication of first Sustainability Statement (CSRD) including strategy and updated climate ambitions for 2030

    Rubis’ first Sustainability Statement (CSRD format) was published on 28 April covering among others: Climate change – Update on decarbonisation targets and financial implications. Beyond regulatory requirements, the Sustainability Statement provides a solid foundation for shaping the Group’s Think Tomorrow 2026–2030 Roadmap, which will integrate business-specific priorities and be co-constructed with the operating entities.

    Q1 2025 COMMERCIAL PERFORMANCE

    1.   ENERGY DISTRIBUTION – RETAIL & MARKETING

    In Q1 2025, volume continued to increase across the board. Margins also saw an upward trend, with some variability.

    Volume sold and gross margin by product in Q1 2025

      Volume (in ‘000 m3) Gross margin (in €m)
    (in ‘000 m3) Q1 2025 Q1 2024 Q1 2025
    vs Q1 2024    		 Q1 2025 Q1 2024 Q1 2025
    vs Q1 2024
    LPG 346 343 1% 83 84 -0%
    Fuel 1,071 1,048 2% 113 103 10%
    Bitumen 135 100 35% 21 23 -6%
    TOTAL 1,552 1,491 4% 218 209 4%

    Volume sold and gross margin by region in Q1 2025

      Volume (in ‘000 m3) Gross margin (in €m)
      Q1 2025 Q1 2024 Q1 2025
    vs Q1 2024    		 Q1 2025 Q1 2024 Q1 2025
    vs Q1 2024
    Europe 255 245 4% 65 62 4%
    Caribbean 584 573 2% 85 80 7%
    Africa 712 674 6% 68 67 1%
    TOTAL 1,552 1,491 4% 218 209 4%

    LPG volume was slightly up. The main drivers for growth over the quarter were bulk in France, where sales teams were particularly dynamic and won several new contracts. Autogas in France also saw a strong performance, as a result of several contracts won with service stations in 2024. Market share in France continued to increase, benefiting from a high level of customer engagement. These strong dynamics were partially offset by lower volume in Morocco where the market faced a product shortage after difficult weather conditions kept the supply vessels from unloading the product. Gross margin remained stable.

    • As regards fuel:
      • in the retail business (representing 49% of fuel volume and 52% of fuel gross margin in Q1 2025) volume grew by 4% vs Q1 2024. Gross margin increased by 14%, driven by:
        • increasing volume in East Africa, with Zambia, Uganda and Rwanda showing significant growth rates thanks to rebranded service stations,
        • Madagascar also saw significant volume and margin growth year over year, thanks to a well-maintained network and improved logistics, enabling the Company to increase its market share,
        • activity continued to be very dynamic in the Caribbean, with Jamaica, Barbados, and Guyana still performing well. The situation in Haiti remains unchanged with half of the service stations closed at the end of March 2025;
      • the Commercial and Industrial business (C&I, representing 28% of fuel volume and 24% of fuel gross margin in Q1 2025) increased by 2% in volume and decreased by 1% in gross margin over the period, led by Kenya, Zambia, Guyana, Suriname and Barbados;
      • the aviation segment (representing 20% of fuel volume and 19% of fuel gross margin in Q1 2025) saw increased margins in Q1 2025 at +6% despite a slight volume decline of 2%. This performance was mainly driven by the Eastern Caribbean region, where some airlines decreased their frequencies, and the pricing environment was favourable.
    • Bitumen volume was up 35% yoy, mainly driven by Nigeria where Rubis’ supply situation was particularly strong. Togo and South Africa also saw strong volume increase, with improving margins. Gross margin showed a 6% decrease yoy and is the result of a different product mix in Nigeria.

    2.   ENERGY DISTRIBUTION – SUPPORT & SERVICES

    The Support & Services activity recorded €266m of revenue (+2% yoy) in Q1 2025.

    Volume excluding crude deliveries was up 5% and margins were down 4% vs Q1 2024.

    In the Caribbean, trading activity was dynamic with +5% in volume.

    In Africa, bitumen shipping activity was at a level comparable to that of Q1 2024 (volume +1%) with more numerous but shorter routes.

    SARA refinery and logistics operations present specific business models with stable earnings profile.

    3.   RENEWABLE ELECTRICITY PRODUCTION – PHOTOSOL

    Operational data Q1 2025 Q1 2024 Q1 2025
    vs Q1 2024
    Assets in operation (MWp) 535 450 +19%
    Electricity production (GWh) 102 81 +26%
    Sales (in €m) 11 8 +28%

    Over Q1 2025, Photosol commissionned 12MWp, leading its assets in operation to grow by 19% yoy at 535 MWp. The secured portfolio increased by 22% to 1.1 GWp with 53 MWp new projects secured over Q1 2025. The pipeline reached 5.7 GWp (+21% yoy). Revenue for Q1 2025 stood at €11m, up 28% vs Q1 2024, benefitting from portfolio expansion and a higher load factor.

    In April 2025, Alix Lajoie became President and Thomas Aubagnac became CEO of Photosol, as planned. Both were previously Deputy CEOs since 2023. The two founders, David Guinard and Robin Ucelli, remain shareholders and Board members of Photosol.

    OUTLOOK – FY 2025 GUIDANCE REAFFIRMED

    The working assumptions used to establish the 2025 guidance remain unchanged.

    Group EBITDA is expected at €710m to €760m in 2025 (assuming IAS 29 – hyperinflation impact unchanged versus 2024).

    Reminder: Photosol 2027 ambitions:

    • Secured portfolio(1) above 2.5 GWp
    • Consolidated EBITDA(2): €50-55m, of which c.10% EBITDA contribution from farm-down initiatives
      • Power EBITDA(3): €80-85m
      • Secured EBITDA(4): €150-200m

    NON-FINANCIAL RATING

    • MSCI: AA (reiterated in Dec-24)
    • Sustainalytics: 29.2 (from 30.7 previously)
    • ISS ESG: C (from C- previously)
    • CDP: B (reiterated in Feb-25)

    Webcast for investors and analysts
    Date: 5 May 2024, 6:00pm
    Link to register: https://channel.royalcast.com/rubisen/#!/rubisen/20250505_1
    Participants from Rubis:

    • Marc Jacquot, CFO
    • Clémence Mignot-Dupeyrot, Head of IR

    Upcoming events
    Shareholders’ Meeting: 12 June 2025
    Q2 & H1 2025 results: 9 September 2025
    Q3 & 9M 2025 trading update: 4 November 2025
    Q4 & FY 2025 results: 12 March 2026

    (1) Includes ready-to-build, under construction and in operation capacities.
    (2) EBITDA reported in Rubis Group consolidated financial statements.
    (3) Aggregated EBITDA from operating PV through electricity sales.
    (4) Illustrative EBITDA coming from secured portfolio.

    Press Contact Analyst Contact
    RUBIS – Communication department RUBIS – Clémence Mignot-Dupeyrot, Head of IR
    Tel: +33 (0)1 44 17 95 95

    presse@rubis.fr

    		 Tel: +33 (0)1 45 01 87 44

    investors@rubis.fr

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –