NewzIntel.com

Category: China

  • MIL-OSI China: China EximBank issues bonds to support foreign trade

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The Export-Import Bank of China (China EximBank) announced on Monday that it has issued two themed financial bonds totaling 12 billion yuan (about 1.66 billion U.S. dollars) in the interbank bond market.

    The bonds, issued last Thursday and Friday, aim to facilitate the quality and efficiency improvements of China’s foreign trade and support connectivity in foreign trade-related infrastructure, according to the bank.

    Issued in one-year and ten-year maturities, the bonds attracted broad participation from domestic and international institutional investors, said the bank, noting that funds raised will specifically target foreign trade credit loans.

    To advance high-quality foreign trade growth, China EximBank has recently introduced special programs to expand financial support for small and micro-sized foreign trade enterprises, and strengthen support for private companies involved in international trade, overseas investments, Belt and Road cooperation, and developing new quality productive forces.

    China EximBank is a state-funded and state-owned policy bank supporting China’s foreign trade, investment and international economic cooperation. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Government-backed guarantees ease financing strains for China’s SMEs

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Li Shiji, who owns a small grain-processing company in Shenyang of northeast China’s Liaoning Province, found it difficult to secure business loans for most of his career due to a lack of collateral. But the recent launch of a government-backed financing tool has eased his company’s financial pressures, he says.

    A government financing guarantee product initiated by Liaoning Province Financing Guaranty in partnership with various banks has helped Li’s firm secure 5 million yuan (about 693,385 U.S. dollars) in much-needed loans.

    By analyzing common traits among enterprises in specific industries and establishing a standardized, scenario-based financing model, the product effectively enables small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entities in rural industries to access loans. As of the end of March, the program had supported 16 county-level industrial clusters, providing 430 million yuan in guaranteed loans and sustaining 3,800 jobs.

    China has promoted government financing guarantees to help small businesses and rural ventures overcome long-standing lending barriers. Unlike commercial guarantors, public financing guarantee institutions prioritize public welfare over profits, offering credit enhancement, risk sharing and lower fees to facilitate lending to small-scale borrowers.

    The country has built a three-tier system to ensure the system fully covers all cities and counties. The National Financing Guarantee Fund, which is the cornerstone of the system, had backed loans totaling 5.81 trillion yuan by the end of March, benefiting approximately 5 million borrowers. Of that total, 98.96 percent was allocated to small or agricultural businesses, significantly reducing borrowing costs.

    He Daixin, a finance expert at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, noted that government guarantees have become a key countercyclical macroeconomic tool, supporting growing numbers of SMEs and rural entities.

    Yet challenges persist, including the vague definition of institutional roles and sustainability concerns. In response to these challenges, Chinese authorities in February introduced new measures to regulate government financing guarantees, setting operational requirements for these institutions.

    In effect since March 1, 2025, the regulations mandate that government-backed guarantee institutions should expand services to help enterprises weather challenges while stabilizing and boosting employment. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s foreign trade up 1.3 pct in Q1, sustaining stable development

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    An aerial drone photo shows a view of the Tangshan Port in north China’s Hebei Province, Jan. 13, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s total goods imports and exports in yuan-denominated terms expanded 1.3 percent year on year in the first quarter of this year, demonstrating stable growth and strong resilience despite external headwinds, official data showed on Monday.

    According to the General Administration of Customs (GAC), China’s exports during the period rose 6.9 percent to 6.13 trillion yuan (about 850.1 billion U.S. dollars) while imports fell 6 percent to 4.17 trillion yuan.

    Despite the weak momentum of global economic growth, intensified trade protectionism and geopolitical tensions, China’s foreign trade has maintained stable growth with progress in high-quality development this year, Wang Lingjun, deputy head of the GAC, told a press conference.

    The country’s foreign trade continued to see structural improvement. The imports and exports of the equipment manufacturing sector expanded 7.6 percent year on year in January-March, accounting for about half of the country’s total foreign trade, according to the GAC.

    GAC spokesperson Lyu Daliang said at the press conference that China’s exports to more than 170 countries and regions expanded in the first three months, with strong growth seen in the high-end, smart and green manufacturing sectors.

    In March alone, the country’s imports and exports rose 6 percent from one year earlier, representing continuous improvements compared with staying flat in February and 2.2-percent fall in January, according to the GAC data.

    Lyu said that China’s exports now faced a complex and severe external situation, but “the sky won’t fall.”

    He said China had made steady progress in diversifying its foreign trade markets and deepening industrial and supply chain cooperation with partners around the world in recent years. He emphasized that China’s vast domestic market remains a strong backup for the economy, adding that the country will turn domestic certainty into a buffer against global volatility.

    He attributed the decline in imports in the first quarter to various factors including the decline in international commodity prices and fewer working days.

    China has committed to boosting high-standard opening up and expanding imports, sharing development opportunities with the rest of the world, he said, adding that China has maintained its position as the world’s second-largest importer for 16 consecutive years, with its share of global imports rising from 7.9 percent to 10.5 percent.

    Looking ahead, Lyu said China had huge potential for import growth, and the country’s vast market always presents a great opportunity for the world.

    A breakdown of the GAC data showed that ASEAN remained China’s largest trading partner in the first quarter. During this period, trade between China and the ASEAN bloc reached 1.71 trillion yuan, up 7.1 percent from one year earlier and accounting for 16.6 percent of China’s overall trade value, the GAC said.

    During the January-March period, China’s foreign trade with the European Union went up 1.4 percent year on year to 1.3 trillion yuan. That with Belt and Road partner countries rose 2.2 percent to 5.26 trillion yuan, accounting for 51.1 percent of China’s total foreign trade.

    China’s foreign trade with the United States expanded 4 percent year on year to 1.11 trillion yuan during this period, despite disruptions from the U.S. administration’s reckless tariff policies, according to Wang.

    Wang reiterated that the U.S. “reciprocal tariffs” subvert the existing international economic and trade order, put U.S. interests above the common good of the international community, seriously violate the WTO rules, undermine the rules-based multilateral trading system and disrupt the global economic order.

    “There is no winner in a trade war, and protectionism is a dead end,” he said, adding that China will continue to work with other parties to jointly oppose the U.S. tariff bullying and hegemonism, and safeguard the multilateral trading system and economic globalization. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Britain suspends import tariffs on 89 products amid global trade tensions

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The British government has announced a temporary suspension of import tariffs on 89 types of goods to bolster domestic businesses and ease financial burden on consumers. The measure takes immediate effect and will remain in place until July 2027.

    According to an official press release updated on Monday, the suspended tariffs apply to a wide array of items, ranging from everyday essentials such as pasta, fruit juices, spices, and coconut oil, to industrial materials like plywood and plastics used in construction and manufacturing. Seasonal goods such as agave syrup – popular among cocktail makers, and plant bulbs for gardening are also included.

    The authority estimates that the tariff cuts will save British businesses at least 17 million pounds (about 22.42 million U.S. dollars) annually. Officials said the savings could be passed down to consumers through lower retail prices especially ahead of the summer season.

    “Free and open trade grows economies, lowers prices and helps businesses to sell to the world, which is why we’re cutting tariffs on a range of products,” said British Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds. “From food to furniture, this will reduce the cost of everyday items for businesses, with savings hopefully passed onto consumers.”

    British Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves also stressed the policy’s potential to address cost-of-living concerns. “In a changing world, we know families are anxious about the cost of living, and businesses are uncertain about their future. That’s why we’ve announced lower prices on imports of everyday essentials – helping businesses to thrive and pass on savings to customers,” she said.

    The announcement comes amid mounting external trade pressures, including recent tariff increases imposed by the United States on a variety of British exports. The U.S. measures, which have affected sectors such as steel, automotive, and food products, have raised costs for exporters and strained transatlantic trade.

    Industry groups warn that the American tariffs could further weigh on Britain’s manufacturing sector, which is already grappling with high input costs and sluggish global demand. Against this backdrop, the British government’s tariff suspensions are seen as a countermeasure to reinforce domestic competitiveness and economic resilience. (1 pound = 1.32 U.S. dollar) 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Nation diversifying market amid global trade volatility

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China will step up market diversification and reduce reliance on the United States market, as Washington’s volatile tariff policy has become a major source of global economic uncertainty, officials and exporters said on Monday.

    The US’ unwarranted imposition of tariffs has trampled on the legitimate rights of many countries and disrupted normal trade flows, they said, adding that these countries are now seeking to strengthen trade ties elsewhere to reduce their exposure to US-driven volatility.

    Speaking at a news conference in Beijing, Wang Lingjun, deputy head of China’s General Administration of Customs, said the country will continue working with partners such as the European Union and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to deepen trade and economic cooperation and oppose the US’ hegemonic practices.

    Lyu Daliang, director of the GAC’s department of statistics and analysis, said that despite a complex and challenging external environment, “the sky won’t fall” for China’s exports.

    According to data released by the GAC on Monday, China’s foreign trade recorded a steady performance in the first quarter, with the total goods trade value growing 1.3 percent year-on-year to 10.3 trillion yuan ($1.41 trillion).

    “China has made steady progress in diversifying its foreign trade market in recent years, bolstering the development of its trading partners while strengthening its own economic resilience,” Lyu said.

    Data shows that China’s export and import value with countries and regions involved in the Belt and Road Initiative totaled 5.26 trillion yuan in the first quarter, up 2.2 percent year-on-year, while its trade with ASEAN member states soared 7.1 percent year-on-year to 1.71 trillion yuan.

    Zhou Mi, a researcher at the Beijing-based Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, said that in the face of the US’ unilateralism and protectionist practices, China has stepped forward with a clear stance and resolute actions to directly respond to and refute the flawed logic and bullying behavior of the US.

    China’s actions have received support from many of its trading partners for providing greater certainty, space for enhanced international cooperation and the stabilization of global supply chains, Zhou said.

    Last week, China and the EU agreed to begin negotiations on electric vehicle pricing commitments and discuss investment cooperation in the automotive industry.

    The EU is ready to strengthen communication with China and promote expanded two-way market access, investment and industrial cooperation, according to the Ministry of Commerce.

    To mitigate the risks caused by the US’ tariff hikes, China’s major foreign trade cities, including Dongguan and Shenzhen in Guangdong province, Suzhou in Jiangsu province and Ningbo in Zhejiang province, have introduced policies to develop emerging markets, explore opportunities in domestic sales and cope with global supply chain disruptions.

    Echoing China’s efforts to enhance global industrial cooperation, Ningbo Corelead Optoelectronics Technology, an electronic equipment manufacturer in Zhejiang, has adopted a global production strategy, manufacturing core components in China and conducting further processing at its overseas plant, according to Ningbo Customs.

    “Establishing a production base in Serbia has enabled us to export domestically made core components for assembly and distribute the finished products across Europe, cutting our order fulfillment time by more than 25 days,” said Yu Xiongwei, the company’s president.

    Ningbo Corelead’s sales in the European market outperformed those in other regions during the first quarter, Yu added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Internet summit in HK highlights digital future

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    The World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit is underway, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, April 14, 2025. [Photo/China Daily]
    The 2025 World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit kicked off in Hong Kong on Monday, attracting nearly 1,000 participants from around the globe to explore future development and potentials across various domains in digital technology.
    The two-day summit was held under the theme of “Integration of AI and Digital Technologies Shaping the Future — Jointly Building a Community with a Shared Future in Cyberspace”.
    Speaking at the summit, Wang Yong, vice-chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference National Committee, said that the Chinese government consistently embraced the digital era with an open attitude, sharing opportunities and benefits brought by internet development with countries around the world, including those in the Asia-Pacific region.
    China is willing to work hand in hand with other countries to promote technological innovation, deepen exchanges and cooperation, safeguard security and stability of cyberspace, establish a sound governance order, and jointly advance the world toward a bright future of digital and intelligent integration, Wang said.
    John Lee, chief executive of China’s Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), said the summit demonstrated the city’s rising role as an international innovation and technology hub. It also reflected Hong Kong’s deepening integration with the country’s national development.
    Lee said that at challenging time, with geopolitics and trade relations getting tense, cooperation is important. Hong Kong champions free trade and multilateralism, and is willing to offer a range of welcoming programs for investors.
    Zhuang Rongwen, chief of the Cyberspace Administration of China and chairman of the World Internet Conference, said that the theme of the summit reflected its aim to align with the trends of the information era, focus on the development and security of artificial intelligence, deepen exchanges, foster consensus, and enhance cooperation.
    Zheng Yanxiong, deputy director of the State Council Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office and director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, said that as a pioneer in internet development, Hong Kong serves as a “super connector” and a “super value-adder” in the advancement of digital-intelligence integration. By jointly promoting the building of a community with a shared future in cyberspace, Hong Kong is set to become a new hub for innovation in internet technology, industry, and culture.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 3 US operatives on wanted list over cyberattacks

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Police authorities in Harbin, in northeast China’s Heilongjiang province, said on Tuesday that they are pursuing three operatives affiliated with the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) over suspected cyberattacks against China.
    The Harbin public security bureau said that the three operatives — Katheryn A. Wilson, Robert J. Snelling, and Stephen W. Johnson — had been engaged in cyberattacks targeting the Asian Winter Games held in the city in February.
    Investigations by Chinese technical teams revealed that the cyberattacks were carried out by the Office of Tailored Access Operations of the NSA. To conceal the origins of its attacks and secure its cyber weapons, the office used multiple affiliated front organizations to purchase IP addresses from various countries and anonymously rented servers located in regions including Europe and Asia.
    Investigations revealed that the NSA focused its pre-event cyberattacks on critical systems of the Asian Winter Games, including registration, arrival/departure management, and competition entry platforms, authorities said. These systems, essential for pre-event operations, stored vast amounts of sensitive personal data of individuals associated with the Games.
    From Feb. 3, coinciding with the first ice hockey match, NSA cyberattacks peaked, primarily targeting critical operational systems such as the event’s official information platforms. These systems were vital for ensuring the smooth running of the Games, and the NSA attempted to disrupt them to undermine their normal operations.
    Meanwhile, the NSA launched cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure sectors in Heilongjiang province, including energy, transportation, water resources, telecommunications, and defense research institutions, authorities said.
    Technical teams also discovered that during the Asian Winter Games, the NSA transmitted unknown encrypted data packets to specific devices running Microsoft Windows operating systems within the province. These packets are suspected to have been attempts to activate or trigger pre-implanted backdoors in the Windows systems, authorities added.
    Further investigations revealed that the three NSA operatives had repeatedly launched cyberattacks against China’s critical information infrastructure and participated in cyber operations targeting companies such as Huawei.
    Technical teams also uncovered evidence implicating the University of California and Virginia Tech in the coordinated cyber campaign against the Asian Winter Games, authorities stated.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Rural development funds improve lives nationwide

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    A drone photo taken on March 19, 2024 shows drones spraying pesticides on the crops at the smart farm at Shuanglou Village, Bozhou City of east China’s Anhui province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    The China Foundation for Rural Development received donations totaling 1.127 billion yuan ($155 million) and spent 1.145 billion yuan on public welfare projects in 2024, benefiting 7.44 million people across the country, according to its newly released annual report.
    More than 48,300 volunteers participated in the foundation’s charitable services last year, which focused on rural industry development, talent cultivation, infrastructure improvement, social services, and civic engagement, the report said.
    Social services related to rural children, education, and healthcare accounted for nearly 40 percent of all donations and about 37 percent of expenditures. Long-term programs, such as the Love Package Project, have been operating for more than a decade. New initiatives were launched last year to promote rural science education and support grassroots football development.
    The foundation allocated 144 million yuan to rural industry development projects in 2024, aiming to upgrade the sector and raise farmers’ incomes. Donations for a mechanized agriculture program surged from 1.43 million yuan in 2023 to more than 40 million yuan last year, benefiting nearly 6,000 farming households across 10 counties nationwide.
    To improve living conditions and environmental sustainability in rural areas, the foundation spent 366 million yuan last year on infrastructure and disaster mitigation projects, addressing issues such as sanitation, ecological restoration, and disaster risk reduction.
    The foundation also expanded its international outreach by implementing aid and development programs in 10 countries, including Myanmar, Nepal, Ethiopia, Burundi, and Pakistan. More than 320,000 people benefited from the programs, which involved more than 52 million yuan in funding.
    By the end of 2024, the foundation had raised a cumulative 12.84 billion yuan in donations and in-kind contributions since its establishment, benefiting more than 80.59 million people in China and about 2.56 million in over 30 countries and regions, the report said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MATSUI AND SCHNEIDER LEAD EFFORT TO PROTECT ESSENTIAL MEDICAL SUPPLY CHAINS FROM TRUMP TARIFFS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA-07) and Congressman Brad Schneider (D-IL-10) led a group of 26 lawmakers in sending a letter toUnited States Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer and U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) Secretary Howard Lutnick. The letter raises serious concerns that the Trump Administration’s tariffs may jeopardize the fragile supply chains of generic drugs and medical devices, risking dangerous shortages of these essential medical supplies. 

    “We write with deep concern over your Administration’s tariff actions affecting medical supply chains,” wrote the lawmakers. “Reckless tariffs, retaliatory measures, and an escalating trade war threaten the supply of essential medicines and medical goods, risking severe shortages that could harm U.S. patients.” 

    The vast majority of active pharmaceutical ingredients used for generic drugs come from overseas. The same is true of crucial medical devices. Imposing tariffs on these products will lead to shortages given the low tolerability of manufacturers to take on additional economic risk. These same factors could force manufacturers overseas where critical inputs are less expensive. 

    “The supply disruptions of critical medical products will unavoidably hurt U.S. patients, force providers to make impossible rationing decisions, and potentially even result in death as treatments are delayed and more effective medicines and products are swapped for less effective alternatives,” the lawmakers continued. 

    Congresswoman Matsui has been a leader in Congress to secure medical supply chains. Last Congress, she authored the Mapping America’s Pharmaceutical Supply (MAPS) Act, a bill to help the federal government prepare for and mitigate future drug shortages by identifying pharmaceutical supply chain vulnerabilities.

    Full text of the letter can be found below or HERE. 

    Dear Ambassador Greer and Secretary Lutnick,

    We write with deep concern over your Administration’s tariff actions affecting medical supply chains. Reckless tariffs, retaliatory measures, and an escalating trade war threaten the supply of essential medicines and medical goods, risking severe shortages that could harm U.S. patients.

    Critical drug supply chains are already fragile, with 271 drugs currently in shortage, down from a record 323 in early 2024 but still alarmingly high.  Many of these are low-margin generic sterile injectable drugs (GSI) crucial in hospital settings, including IV saline, chemotherapy, antibiotics, and anesthetics. Often priced at $2 or less per unit, these drugs are highly vulnerable to economic disruptions.

    These economic conditions discourage manufacturers from investing in reliable supply chains, leaving these drugs heavily reliant on foreign active pharmaceutical ingredients (API), particularly from China and India, which together account for 80% of registered API manufacturing sites.  The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response estimates that 90-95% of GSI for acute critical care depend on API from these countries.  This reliance threatens military readiness as well as general public health; in 2019, a Defense Health Agency official warned that disruption of Chinese supply could cause “severe shortages.” 

    Similarly, nearly 70% of U.S.-marketed medical devices are produced solely overseas.  The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) highlights the complexity of global medical device supply chains, where disruptions lead to prolonged shortages.  These supply chains are characterized by varying access to inputs across the globe, specialized regional economies and production capabilities, and an incoherent international regulatory landscape. If tariffs are implemented on medical products, it would be extremely difficult to coordinate a response such that the number and duration of shortages in the U.S. does not increase. 

    The supply disruptions of critical medical products will unavoidably hurt U.S. patients, force providers to make impossible rationing decisions, and potentially even result in death as treatments are delayed and more effective medicines and products are swapped for less effective alternatives. We have already seen these harmful effects during chemotherapy drug shortages in the U.S. in 2023. If tariffs are implemented, clinicians would be forced to make similar decisions on a much larger scale, having devastating impacts on patient care and resource allocation across the healthcare system.

    Tariffs may also backfire by driving manufacturers to cheaper foreign markets, undermining efforts to strengthen domestic and allied-country production. With generic drugmakers already operating on thin margins, cost spikes could force them to cut product lines, exacerbating shortages. For example, we aware of one large generics manufacturer that has identified 60 products that would immediately be at risk of being discontinued if the administration moved forward with tariffs as proposed. Onshoring production requires deliberate policy incentives, not blunt economic penalties.

    The shared goal of bringing more of our critical medical supply chains to the U.S. and allied countries requires the deliberate attention of the Executive Branch and Congress to incentivize manufacturing. Unfortunately, without additional policy changes, the blunt instrument of tariffs will likely result in more shortages of essential medicines and medical goods, threatening public health and inadvertently increasing reliance on foreign countries for our supply of critical medical products.

    To avoid devastating consequences to patients and our public health infrastructure, we urge you to consider the following in tariff decisions:

    • Assess the impact of tariffs on essential medicines and medical goods and seek input from manufacturers and experts.
    • Exempt or provide waivers for API, generic drugs, essential medicines, and critical medical supplies.
    • If tariffs are implemented, coordinate with the FDA to expedite approval of alternative sources.
    • Issue timely and clear guidance to manufacturers on tariffs, exemptions, and exclusions.
    • Collaborate with Congress and international allies to build resilient medical supply chains.

    Congress stands ready to work toward securing our medical product supply chains. We implore you to carefully weigh tariff decisions with respect to essential medicines and medical goods.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China Week in Milan demonstrates global design vision

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    This photo taken on April 13, 2025 shows Chinese bamboo weaving designs at an exhibition of Milan Design Week in Milan, Italy. [Photo/Xinhua]

    As one of the most anticipated fixtures in the global design calendar, the 2025 Milan Design Week, which closed on Sunday, brought a vibrant burst of color and creativity, drawing designers and enthusiasts from around the world.

    Among the kaleidoscope of international exhibits, a splash of Chinese red has stood out, symbolizing the rising global presence of Chinese design.

    China Week of creativity

    On April 7, the second edition of the China and Design exhibition opened in Milan’s Paolo Sarpi district – often dubbed the city’s Chinatown. Known as “China Week,” the event features dozens of exhibitions and activities focused on industrial cooperation, brand localization, and community integration, aiming at fostering deeper cultural exchange and helping Chinese design concepts take root and flourish overseas.

    At the heart of China Week is the Chinese cultural and creative design exhibition, which showcases a range of creative works, including a limited-edition “Snake Dwen Dwen” mascot for the Year of the Snake (a spin-off of the beloved Beijing Winter Olympics figure), a specially crafted bronze wine vessel inspired by the ancient Sanxingdui archaeological site in southwest China, and an intricately carved statue of the legendary “Monkey King” from Journey to the West. These exhibits have captivated large crowds of international visitors.

    Models perform at “The Gift,” a light mix design of Milan Design Week by Chinese designer Chen Yaoguang, at the University of Milan, in Milan, Italy, April 11, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    To complement the main displays, the streets of the Paolo Sarpi district have been transformed into a festive cultural landscape. Arches themed around the Year of the Snake – decorated with traditional symbols such as dragons, dumplings, and serpentine patterns – have been erected along the streets.

    “Through both its immersive exhibits and the festive street atmosphere, China Week brought Chinese design vividly to life in Milan – not only as a showcase of creativity but as a celebration of cultural dialogue, urban engagement, and global visibility,” said Michele Brunello, director of the China Design Centre in Milan.

    China Week has hosted a series of high-level dialogues featuring professors and scholars from top Chinese institutions and Italian design leaders to explore the localization of Chinese design in international markets.

    Lin Cunzhen, curator of the exhibition, described the event as a bridge connecting Eastern and Western design philosophies. “On the other side of the bridge stands a new generation of Chinese designers – confident, open and globally minded.”

    Innovation on wheels

    During the opening ceremony of China Week, the Turin Automotive Design Award was launched for the first time. Jointly initiated by the Turin Auto Show and the China Design Centre in Milan, the award aims to spotlight outstanding Chinese automotive designs already present in the European market. The winners will be announced in September at the Turin Auto Show.

    “We hope this award will strengthen cooperation between the European and Chinese automotive industries and foster cross-cultural synergy,” said Barbara Santise, press officer for the Turin Auto Show.

    People try a BYD Denza Z9GT vehicle at an exhibition of Milan Design Week in Milan, Italy, April 11, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Santise added that Chinese vehicles are not only technically advanced but also competitively priced, making them strong contenders in the European market.

    Just a few kilometers away, in Milan’s Brera district, the Z9GT, a flagship luxury electric sedan by Chinese automaker DENZA under BYD, made its European debut. With flowing curves inspired by Eastern aesthetics, the vehicle stood in poetic harmony with the surrounding Baroque architecture. Lines of international visitors queued for test drives, offering enthusiastic praise.

    Across Milan, Chinese auto brands such as XPeng, GAC, and Geely have launched their own showcases, drawing attention from passersby. Once the stronghold of Western luxury brands, the high-end auto market is undergoing a transformation – one where Chinese firms are competing not on cost, but with cutting-edge design, innovation, and bold vision.

    A woman visits the booth of BYD Denza at an exhibition of Milan Design Week in Milan, Italy, April 11, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Design as cultural fusion

    Chinese design also found an artistic expression at the University of Milan. In the university’s central courtyard, a circular mirror installation titled Gift, created by Hangzhou-based designer Chen Yaoguang, reflected the surrounding Renaissance architecture like a shimmering slice of modernity. The sculpture bore the word “Gift” in Latin, Italian, and Chinese-symbolizing the fusion of two rich cultures.

    “It looks like a pizza sliced from above. It’s really fun,” said an Italian visitor who only gave his first name as Stefano. “It blends perfectly into the environment. I’m truly impressed by the level of Chinese design.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Octogenarian saves disappearing Mongolian folk songs

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Devoting more than six decades to the preservation and study of the music of the Mongolian ethnic group in China, Wu Lanjie, an 87-year-old Chinese musicologist and educator, has made significant contributions to the inheritance and development of the music, with his important monographs forming a theoretical framework for Mongolian music history.

    Born into a family of folk song artists on the Horqin Grassland in north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Wu was immersed in Mongolian folk songs from an early age and developed a deep passion for music, which later evolved into a lifelong pursuit.

    As Wu described it, he has spent nearly his entire life creating an extensive “coordinate system” for Mongolian music, with the horizontal axis representing the timeline of its development from ancient times to the present, and the vertical axis categorizing the various forms of the music—such as folk songs, instrumental music, and epics—thus forming a comprehensive theoretical framework.

    In particular, his landmark work, a book titled “A History of Mongolian Music,” serves as an academic compass tracing the vibrant evolution of Mongolian music, advancing the theorization and systematization of the music.

    The work was a result of more than 30 years of painstaking efforts starting from 1959, when he was studying at the musicology department of China’s Central Conservatory of Music.

    “After studying the history of music from different parts of the world, I couldn’t help but wonder—Mongolian ethnic music is so rich and diverse, how could it not have a history of its own?” Wu recalled, noting that a simple yet powerful idea took root in his mind at the time: to write a book on the history of Mongolian ethnic music.

    In the decades that followed, Wu embarked on a monumental project to collect, analyze, and categorize Mongolian ethnic music.

    “In the past, most studies of Mongolian ethnic music remained at the level of general overviews, lacking theoretical depth, systematic structure, and professional rigor,” Wu said.

    “In such circumstances, no matter how abundant the musical works are, musical creation and music education cannot develop in a systematic way. Only by elevating musical practices of the Mongolian people to the level of music theory and history can we lay a solid foundation for their inheritance and development,” he explained.

    In an effort to compile a comprehensive history of Mongolian ethnic music, Wu nearly exhausted every available source he could find. He combed through a vast range of materials—from ancient Mongolian-language texts and classical Chinese literature, such as the treatise on ritual and music in the “Book of Han”, to collections of works by literary figures and scholars from the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties.

    He also consulted foreign works, including “The Travels of Marco Polo”, and explored archaeological findings in search of historical references to Mongolian ethnic music.

    Realizing that he couldn’t rely solely on books, Wu also took to the grasslands to conduct field research. During the summers of 1963 and 1964, he traveled from village to village, consulting with local folk singers and documenting what he heard.

    The journeys were long and often dangerous—he once encountered wolves, and on another occasion nearly drowned while crossing a river. Instinctively, he held his backpack full of folk song transcriptions above his head, which caught the attention of a passerby who came to his rescue.

    Through his fieldwork, Wu collected and preserved over 300 folk songs, including more than 90 long-tune songs (Urtyn duu), which are praised as a “living fossil” of Mongolian music.

    “At that time, many people thought that the long-tune folk songs from the Horqin Grassland were on the verge of disappearing, with only about a dozen surviving. However, I managed to collect over 90 of them,” Wu recalled.

    Based on his rescue efforts that contributed to the preservation of the long-tune folk songs from the Horqin Grassland, Wu published a book on the traditional form of folk music.

    Wu’s extensive fieldwork laid a solid foundation for his scholarship. After more than 30 years of research and documentation, he began writing “A History of Mongolian Music” in 1993. The book was published five years later, earning widespread acclaim and being included in the inaugural Yang Yinliu nomination for academic achievements in music by the Chinese National Academy of Arts. The nomination represents one of the most prestigious honors for musicians in China.

    Yet he didn’t stop there. A revised edition came out in 2019, enriched with new findings, updated theories and historical data, as well as contemporary developments.

    A photo of Wu Lanjie, an 87-year-old Chinese musicologist and educator, in his earlier years. [Photo courtesy of the interviewee]

    Today, he remains deeply engaged in the preservation and development of ancient folk songs. As a researcher at Minzu University of China and a special doctoral supervisor at the China Conservatory of Music, he continues to mentor young scholars and advocate for the fusion of tradition and innovation.

    Hanggai, a band with ethnic Mongolian musicians, has successfully blended traditional Mongolian music with modern elements, attracting more modern audiences to Mongolian folk songs, Wu said, noting that this kind of revival is what he hopes for.

    Despite health challenges and a worn-out knee from years of travel, Wu still works with untiring vigor. He is busy with mentoring students, promoting music, and conducting academic research.

    “There’s still a lot I haven’t finished,” he said. “I have a ‘510 writing plan’—the materials I’ve collected from fieldwork could still form the basis for five theoretical monographs; the folklore and historical stories I’ve accumulated over the years could fill 10 more books. I am determined to finish writing all these and leave more research materials for the younger generation.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese, Senegalese drummers converse in harmonic rhythm

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The Central Conservatory of Music Percussion Ensemble perform during a cross-cultural performance titled “Drums and Music in Harmony” at the Grand National Theater Doudou Ndiaye Coumba Rose in Dakar, capital of Senegal, April 10, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    With synchronized movements and dazzling technique, percussionists from China and Senegal breathed life into diverse drum pieces during a cross-cultural performance titled “Drums and Music in Harmony” in Dakar, the capital of Senegal.

    The show, held at the Grand National Theater Doudou Ndiaye Coumba Rose on Thursday evening, attracted nearly 1,000 spectators, eager to witness the captivating collaboration between Chinese and Senegalese artists.

    “This is more than a musical performance. It’s a spiritual exchange,” said Yin Fei, associate professor from China’s Central Conservatory of Music.

    He led a nine-member percussion group on a cultural visit to Senegal, where they engaged in face-to-face collaboration with the renowned Doudou Ndiaye Rose Percussion Ensemble.

    From Chinese lion dance drumming to Senegalese sabar drumming, the two ensembles, each with its distinct style, found common ground in both rhythm and spirit, showcasing the universality of percussion as a shared cultural language.

    The Doudou Ndiaye Rose Percussion Ensemble perform during a cross-cultural performance titled “Drums and Music in Harmony” at the Grand National Theater Doudou Ndiaye Coumba Rose in Dakar, capital of Senegal, April 10, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Opening the performance, the Doudou Ndiaye Rose Percussion Ensemble delivered a powerful display of sabar drumming. Dressed in traditional Senegalese attire, the performers moved in sync with their rhythms, weaving stories of Senegalese heritage and community through sound and motion.

    They were followed by the Central Conservatory of Music Percussion Ensemble, which presented a series of Chinese percussion pieces steeped in national character, evoking the profound cultural legacy of Chinese civilization through layered, resonant rhythms.

    Idrissa Faye, a resident of Dakar, watched the performance with his four-year-old daughter. “A few days ago, I passed by the theater and saw a huge poster for this event. I had never seen a Chinese performance before, so I came early with my daughter today,” Faye said.

    “The show was so amazing. I could really feel the grandeur and power of Chinese art,” he said.

    Yin introduced the audience to the long and rich history of Chinese percussion. “In traditional Chinese culture, drums often symbolize authority, sanctity, unity, and strength. In ancient times, the beat of drums marked the emperor’s processions, the departure of armies, and temple ceremonies.”

    “Today, drum music remains a vibrant part of Chinese festivals such as Spring Festival, temple fairs, and harvest celebrations, often used to convey blessings and festive joy,” he added.

    Sabar drumming, a symbol of African percussion culture, is a dialogue between drummers and dancers. The drummer shifts rhythms based on the dancer’s movements, while the dancer responds dynamically to the beat. This vibrant interplay is known as the “conversation of the drums.”

    The Doudou Ndiaye Rose Percussion Ensemble and the Central Conservatory of Music Percussion Ensemble perform together during a cross-cultural performance titled “Drums and Music in Harmony” at the Grand National Theater Doudou Ndiaye Coumba Rose in Dakar, capital of Senegal, April 10, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    For Mustapha Ndiaye, head of the Doudou Ndiaye Rose Ensemble, Thursday’s performance also profoundly pulled at his heartstrings.

    It served as a tribute to his late father, Doudou Ndiaye Rose, who brought traditional Wolof sabar drumming, once confined to weddings and festivals, to the global stage. The grand theater itself is named in the legendary drummer’s honor.

    “This exchange is a great opportunity to spark new artistic inspiration. We share so many similar stories. The drum is more than an instrument. It’s a vessel of culture and spirit,” said Ndiaye. “One day, I hope to bring Senegalese drumming culture to China.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing’s Palace Museum stages Minoan civilization exhibition

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The opening ceremony of a special exhibition on Minoan civilization in Greece was held on Monday at the Palace Museum in Beijing.

    The exhibition, named “Daedalus: Legends of Crete,” brings together 172 precious artifacts and sets from the Heraklion Archaeological Museum in Greece, along with one modern reconstruction.

    It marks the first major exhibition dedicated to Minoan civilization held in China. Minoan civilization, one of Europe’s earliest Bronze Age civilizations, is renowned for its grand palace architecture, exquisite frescoes and unique writing systems.

    The exhibition will run from April 15 to July 27. A series of academic lectures and educational activities will be held during the exhibition period to spark public interest in ancient civilizations and promote cooperation on cultural heritage protection and academic exchange between China and Greece. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Central gov’t pledges full support for Macao’s high-quality development

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Sam Hou Fai, chief executive of China’s Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), delivers the 2025 fiscal year policy address in Macao, south China, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A spokesperson for the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council on Monday pledged efforts to fully support the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) in achieving new progress in its high-quality development.
    The spokesperson made the remarks following a speech that Sam Hou Fai, the sixth-term chief executive of the Macao SAR, delivered on Monday, which was Sam’s first policy speech since taking office.
    Noting that the chief executive’s speech fully demonstrated the reform-minded, innovative, responsible and enterprising spirit of the SAR’s new-term government, the spokesperson said that the central government will spare no effort in backing the SAR government and various sectors of Macao to complete the significant mission of advancing the “one country, two systems” practice.
    The speech outlined a vision for — as well as pathways to build — a Macao that is ruled by law, and that is dynamic and brimming with culture and happiness. It also highlighted issues and challenges facing the SAR, and put forward a raft of new approaches and response measures to tackle them, the spokesperson said.
    With the strong support of the central government and the mainland, the Macao SAR government and all sectors of Macao’s society will surely give full play to the advantages of the “one country, two systems” policy, proactively seize opportunities, and continuously create new achievements, the spokesperson said.
    Thus they will also make new and greater contributions to building a great modern socialist country and achieving the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation by pursuing Chinese modernization, the spokesperson added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China refutes US officials’ ‘China threat’ narrative

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China’s cooperation with Latin American and Caribbean countries aims to provide mutual support and is never driven by geopolitical calculations, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson told a daily news briefing on Monday.

    Spokesperson Lin Jian made the remarks in response to the “China threat” narrative being pushed by certain U.S. officials. He said that their remarks are steeped in ideological bias and the result of a Cold War mentality, and that they contain not a single word of truth.

    “Who sees Latin America and the Caribbean as a backyard and forces the ‘Neo-Monroe Doctrine’ on them? Who keeps pointing fingers at the domestic affairs of these countries? Who has been coercing them with tariff threats? Who has engaged in massive global surveillance? Who has military bases all over the Western Hemisphere? Who is letting small arms, light weapons and ammunition flow into Latin America and the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace?” Lin asked, noting that the world knows “full well” the answers to these questions.

    Lin said that China is committed to equality and mutual benefits in engaging with these countries, and never seeks to gain a sphere of influence or target any third party.

    The United States continues to vilify China and peddle the so-called China threat in order to create a pretext to justify their actions to control countries in this region, yet this will never succeed, Lin added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese FM spokesperson briefs on coordination between China, EU on additional US tariffs

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China stands ready to work with the international community, including the EU, to defend international trade rules, fairness and justice, a foreign ministry spokesperson said on Monday.

    Spokesperson Lin Jian made the remarks at a daily news briefing when asked to share more information on the communication and coordination between China and the EU on additional U.S. tariffs.

    The U.S. uses tariff as a weapon to exert maximum pressure and seek selfish gains, and puts its own interests over the public good of the international community, Lin said, noting that this is a typical move of unilateralism, protectionism and economic bullying, which severely hurts the interests of China, the EU and the rest of the world.

    Lin said that as the second and third largest economies, China and the EU collectively account for over one third of the global economy and more than a quarter of global trade, adding that both sides are advocates of economic globalization and trade liberalization, and firm defenders and supporters of the WTO.

    “The head of the EU underscored the vital importance of stability and certainty for a sound global economy. China and the EU are committed to a fair, free and WTO-centered multilateral trading system, and the sound and steady development of global trade and economic relations, which is in the interest of both sides and the rest of the world,” Lin said.

    As a responsible major country, China has already taken resolute measures and will continue to do so to safeguard its legitimate interests, Lin said.

    “China stands ready to work with the international community, including the EU, to step up communication and coordination, share development opportunities, expand opening up and cooperation, and achieve mutual benefits. We will not only safeguard respective interests, but also defend international trade rules, fairness and justice,” Lin said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi calls for deepening building of China-Vietnam community with shared future

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chinese president, on Monday called for deepening the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future.

    Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, holds talks with To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, at the CPV Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Xueren)

    Xi made the remarks when meeting with General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee To Lam during his state visit to Vietnam.

    Xi pointed out that he was very pleased to pay a state visit to Vietnam and realize the first round of mutual visits with General Secretary To Lam.

    This year marks the 95th anniversary of the founding of the CPV, the 80th anniversary of the founding of Vietnam and the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South, he said, extending warm congratulations to Vietnam on behalf of the CPC and the Chinese government.

    China will, as always, support Vietnam in taking a socialist path that suits its national conditions, successfully holding the 14th National Congress of the CPV in 2026, and its steadfast pursuit of realizing the two goals set for the centenary of the party and the country.

    This year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Vietnam, as well as the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges, said Xi, stressing that over the past 75 years, regardless of changes in the international landscape, China and Vietnam have supported each other in the struggle for national independence and liberation, advanced side by side in the cause of socialist development, and forged ahead in their respective modernization endeavors, setting an example of solidarity and cooperation between socialist countries.

    Facing the changing and turbulent world, China and Vietnam have stayed committed to peaceful development and deepened their friendly cooperation, bringing much-needed stability and certainty to the world, Xi said.

    Standing at a new historical starting point, the two sides should build on past achievements, forge ahead together and carry forward the profound traditional friendship featuring “camaraderie plus brotherhood,” said Xi.

    Guided by the overall goals of achieving higher political mutual trust, more solid security cooperation, deeper practical cooperation, stronger public support, closer multilateral coordination and better management and resolution of differences, the two countries should work to advance their comprehensive strategic cooperation with high quality, ensure steady and sustained progress in building a China-Vietnam community with a shared future, and contribute even more to the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, Xi said.

    Building the China-Vietnam community with a shared future carries great global significance, Xi said, noting that as the two countries jointly pursue peaceful development, their combined population of over 1.5 billion is jointly advancing toward modernization, which will contribute to regional and global peace and stability while promoting common development.

    Both countries are committed to opening up and have played a constructive role in maintaining the stability and smooth operation of regional industrial and supply chains, as well as contributing to the advancement of economic globalization, Xi said.

    A small boat with a lone sail cannot withstand rough seas, Xi said, noting that only by working together in the same boat can they ensure stability and long-term progress.

    He noted that both China and Vietnam are beneficiaries of economic globalization, and the two sides should strengthen strategic resolve, jointly oppose unilateralism and bullying practices, and work together to uphold the global free trade system and maintain the stability of industrial and supply chains.

    Xi proposed six measures to deepen the building of the China-Vietnam community with a shared future.

    First, enhance strategic mutual trust at a higher level.

    Leaders of the two parties and countries should communicate with each other as relatives, Xi said, noting the two sides should give full play to the role of channels including inter-party, legislative bodies and political consultative organizations, deepen the exchange of experience in governance, and improve the leadership of the two parties in promoting national modernization.

    Second, build a stronger security barrier.

    The two sides should set the “3+3” strategic dialogue on diplomacy, defense and public security between the two countries at the ministerial level to enhance strategic coordination.

    It is necessary to give full play to the role of defense and law enforcement security cooperation mechanisms, resolutely tackle online gambling, telecom fraud and other cross-border crimes, strengthen bilateral and multilateral law enforcement and judicial cooperation, especially within the framework of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation, so as to safeguard people’s lives and property and uphold regional peace and stability.

    Third, expand higher quality mutually beneficial cooperation.

    Seize the major opportunities of China’s new quality productive forces and Vietnam’s new productive forces to accelerate the formation of practical cooperation between the two countries. Realize the comprehensive connection of standard-gauge railways, highways, and smart ports at an early date. Promote high-tech cooperation such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things. China’s mega market is always open to Vietnam, and the country welcomes more high-quality Vietnamese products. China encourages its companies to invest in Vietnam and hopes that Vietnam will create a more fair and friendly business environment.

    Fourth, tighten the bonds of people-to-people ties.

    China and Vietnam should take the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges as an opportunity and organize more people-oriented exchange activities, and enhance cooperation in tourism, culture, media, public health and other fields.

    The two sides should continue to explore resources of revolutionary heritage and promote stories of friendship. In the next three years, China will invite Vietnamese youth to China for “Red Study Tours,” which will help the younger generation of both countries better understand the hard-won nature of the socialist countries and the great value of China-Vietnam good-neighborliness and friendly cooperation, and will cultivate greater vitality for the development of bilateral relations and the respective national development endeavors.

    Fifth, conduct closer multilateral coordination.

    China and Vietnam should jointly uphold the outcomes of World War II, firmly safeguard the international system with the United Nations at its core and the international order based on international law, promote a more equal and orderly multi-polar world and an economic globalization that is more inclusive and beneficial for all, and enhance cooperation under the frameworks of the three major global initiatives.

    China will stay committed to the principles of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness, and to the policy of pursuing friendship and partnership with its neighbors. It will deepen friendly cooperation with neighboring countries so that the fruits of Chinese modernization can better benefit the region.

    Sixth, achieve more positive maritime interaction.

    The two countries should earnestly implement the consensus reached by leaders of the two countries, properly manage maritime issues, expand maritime cooperation, demonstrate resolve in launching joint development, and work toward the early conclusion of a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.

    For his part, To Lam extended a warm welcome to Xi on his state visit to Vietnam, which took place on the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. He said that Xi is not only an outstanding leader of the Chinese people but also a great friend of the Vietnamese people.

    Xi’s choice to make Vietnam his first overseas destination this year fully reflects the importance he attaches to China-Vietnam relations and his support for Vietnam, the Vietnamese leader said. This visit will mark a new milestone in the history of friendly exchanges between the two parties and countries, further advancing the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, he added.

    Under Xi’s strong leadership, To Lam noted, China has achieved historic accomplishments in advancing socialism with Chinese characteristics, made comprehensive progress in its path to modernization, and witnessed rapid development of new quality productive forces. With China’s international stature on the rise, Vietnam extends its congratulations and expresses gratitude for China’s long-standing support and assistance, he said.

    Emphasizing that both Vietnam and China are socialist countries under the leadership of a communist party, To Lam said that developing relations with China is an objective requirement, a strategic choice, and a top priority for Vietnam. Vietnam firmly adheres to the one-China policy, supports China’s efforts toward national reunification, and resolutely opposes any separatist actions aimed at “Taiwan independence,” he said.

    Advancing Vietnam-China relations, To Lam noted, is in the fundamental interest of both peoples and conforms with the trend of the times. Vietnam looks forward to strengthening high-level exchanges between the two parties and countries, enhancing exchanges on governance experience, deepening strategic security cooperation, and continually consolidating political mutual trust; further elevating bilateral cooperation by creating new highlights in areas such as trade, science and technology, infrastructure and environmental protection; and promoting people-to-people exchanges, encouraging local and youth interactions, and enhancing tourism cooperation to nurture closer bonds between the peoples, he said.

    Vietnam supports the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind and the three major global initiatives proposed by Xi, To Lam said. Vietnam lauds the vision set forth during the CPC’s central conference on work related to neighboring countries, which envisions building a peaceful, safe and secure, prosperous, beautiful and amicable home with neighboring countries and insists on fostering friendly, mutually beneficial and prosperous relationships, he said.

    Vietnam is ready to strengthen coordination and cooperation with China, uphold multilateralism and the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, safeguard international trade rules, abide by the agreements signed by both sides, and jointly make greater contributions to world peace and human progress, To Lam said, adding that Vietnam is also willing to properly address maritime differences with China to ensure maritime stability.

    Before the talks, To Lam invited Xi to a small-group chat over tea. The two general secretaries exchanged views on party building and national governance. Xi stressed that party building is crucial to the destiny of the party and the country, and that the party’s work style bears on whether it can win public support. The CPC Central Committee has decided to carry out an in-depth campaign throughout the party this year to learn and implement the spirit of the eight-point decision on improving work conduct. This is intended to secure new achievements in work style transformation to further support comprehensive reform and advance modernization. Both general secretaries agreed to strengthen exchanges and mutual learning, and pursue progress in socialist development.

    After the talks, the two leaders witnessed the display of 45 bilateral cooperation documents signed by China and Vietnam. These documents cover areas including connectivity, artificial intelligence, customs inspection and quarantine, agricultural trade, culture and sports, public welfare, human resource development, media, and more.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Internet summit in Hong Kong highlights digital future

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

    HONG KONG, April 14 — The 2025 World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit kicked off here Monday, attracting nearly 1,000 participants from around the globe to explore future development and potentials across various domains in digital technology.

    The two-day summit was held under the theme of “Integration of AI and Digital Technologies Shaping the Future — Jointly Building a Community with a Shared Future in Cyberspace”.

    Speaking at the summit, Wang Yong, vice-chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference National Committee, said that the Chinese government consistently embraced the digital era with an open attitude, sharing opportunities and benefits brought by internet development with countries around the world, including those in the Asia-Pacific region.

    China is willing to work hand in hand with other countries to promote technological innovation, deepen exchanges and cooperation, safeguard security and stability of cyberspace, establish a sound governance order, and jointly advance the world toward a bright future of digital and intelligent integration, Wang said.

    John Lee, chief executive of China’s Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), said the summit demonstrated the city’s rising role as an international innovation and technology hub. It also reflected Hong Kong’s deepening integration with the country’s national development.

    Lee said that at challenging time, with geopolitics and trade relations getting tense, cooperation is important. Hong Kong champions free trade and multilateralism, and is willing to offer a range of welcoming programs for investors.

    Zhuang Rongwen, chief of the Cyberspace Administration of China and chairman of the World Internet Conference, said that the theme of the summit reflected its aim to align with the trends of the information era, focus on the development and security of artificial intelligence, deepen exchanges, foster consensus, and enhance cooperation.

    Zheng Yanxiong, deputy director of the State Council Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office and director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, said that as a pioneer in internet development, Hong Kong serves as a “super connector” and a “super value-adder” in the advancement of digital-intelligence integration. By jointly promoting the building of a community with a shared future in cyberspace, Hong Kong is set to become a new hub for innovation in internet technology, industry, and culture.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Sand control, afforestation efforts in China’s largest desert

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

    An aerial drone photo taken on April 8, 2025 shows people planting coix at a sand industry experimental base in Yutian County of Hotan Prefecture, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]

    URUMQI, April 14 — The Taklimakan Desert in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region covers 337,600 square kilometers and its circumference measures 3,046 kilometers, making it the largest desert in China and the second-largest drifting desert in the world.

    Thanks to decades-long sand prevention and control efforts, the Taklimakan Desert was completely encircled with a sand-blocking green belt on Nov. 28, 2024.

    In 2025, Xinjiang aims to afforest a land area of about 796,000 hectares, including 562,666 hectares for frontline control in the Taklimakan Desert. These afforestation form a part of the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program, the world’s largest afforestation program, which tackles desertification in northwest, north and northeast China.

    Meanwhile, Xinjiang will further widen the sand-blocking green belt and enhance desert-locking efforts to achieve sustainable sand control while improving local livelihoods.

    People arrange drip irrigation pipes at a sand-control experimental base in Yutian County of Hotan Prefecture, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, April 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on April 7, 2025 shows oleaster saplings in Hotan County of Hotan Prefecture, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on April 12, 2025 shows a grassland in Baicheng County, Aksu Prefecture, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Volunteer Wang Chengbang checks seedlings at a nursery in Korla, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, April 11, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on April 13, 2025 shows a photovoltaic power project in Xayar County, Aksu Prefecture, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on April 9, 2025 shows staff members planting seedlings at a sand-control base in Qiemo County, the Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture of Bayingolin, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on April 8, 2025 shows checkerboard sand barriers in Minfeng County of Hotan Prefecture, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A staff member sorts cistanche at a cistanche planting base in Qiemo County, the Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture of Bayingolin, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on April 9, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Fu Guoxi checks the trees at a green belt built by his father Fu Zhizhou in Hejing County, the Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture of Bayingolin, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, April 11, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on April 13, 2025 shows a photovoltaic power project in Xayar County, Aksu Prefecture, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on April 11, 2025 shows a forest park in Hejing County, the Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture of Bayingolin, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Krishnamoorthi: Flavored Vapes like “Strawberry Strudel” and “Sour Skittles” are Endangering our Youth—and it’s Time to Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

    WASHINGTON – Following his pointed questioning during an April 9th Oversight Committee hearing, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) renewed his call for urgent federal action to combat the youth vaping epidemic, warning that flavored e-cigarettes continue to drive nicotine addiction among children and teens.

    At the hearing, Congressman Krishnamoorthi challenged tobacco industry-backed witnesses who dismissed the ongoing crisis as “disputable,” despite over 1.6 million children still using e-cigarettes.

    “I assure you that the parents of the 1.6 million youth vapers do not believe this is somehow a disputable crisis,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. “When companies market candy-flavored vapes like ‘Strawberry Super Strudel’ and ‘Sour Skittles,’ they are targeting our children—not adults trying to quit smoking.”

    During his questioning, Congressman Krishnamoorthi underscored how tobacco companies continue to frame their products as tools for adult cessation while using kid-friendly branding to expand their market.

    “There is no legitimate public health case for products like ‘Rainbow Road’ or ‘Sour Skittles,’” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. “These products exist to hook children, and defending them as beneficial is both absurd and dangerous. I’m the father of three school-aged kids. We have a responsibility to protect this generation from another wave of addiction marketed in candy wrappers. The time to act is now.”

    Congressman Krishnamoorthi has been a leading voice in the fight to end youth vaping, co-founding the bipartisan Congressional Caucus to End Youth Vaping and spearheading legislation to regulate flavored e-cigarettes. As Chairman of the Subcommittee on Economic and Consumer Policy, Congressman Krishnamoorthi launched the first Congressional investigation into the youth vaping epidemic in 2019, spearheading subsequent legislation to crack down on e-cigarette makers and to close the synthetic nicotine loophole. In December, Congressman Krishnamoorthi, through his role as Ranking Member of the Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), announced a new investigation into illicit vaping products from China with advertising targeted at children.

    The clip of the Congressman’s question line is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Trump’s tariffs rollercoaster is really about Republican unity

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lester Munson, Non-Resident Fellow, United States Studies Centre, University of Sydney

    After announcing Liberation Day – stiff “retaliatory” tariffs on every country and penguin-inhabited island in the world – US President Donald Trump rescinded the vast majority of tariffs eight days later when stock and bond markets crashed.

    He followed that with more exemptions for phones, computers and computer chips two days later. Ten percent tariffs remain across the board, along with rates up to 145% on China.

    Is Trump aligned with previous Reagan on tariffs?

    As with anything related to Trump, perceptions overwhelm reality. Trump’s showmanship – call him a carnival barker if you must – obfuscates what is really happening.

    Trump is seen as a protectionist and a populist. By comparison, former president Ronald Reagan was seen as a principled free trader and more ideologically conservative. Both images are misleading.

    Reagan slapped tariffs on cars, steel, lumber, computers, computer chips, motorcycles, machine tools, even clothes pins. The great guru of free markets, Milton Friedman, is reported to have said that the Reagan administration has been “making Smoot-Hawley look positively benign.” (Smoot-Hawley was an infamous tariff law enacted in 1930 at the beginning of the Great Depression.)

    Reagan went back and forth on tariffs, even attacking them in a radio address when Japan tried to impose them. At the end of the day, his record on the issue was as mixed as that of any American president.

    Trump’s politics, if not his showmanship, look a lot more like traditional Republican approaches in the cold light of day. The showmanship – provocative statements, grand exaggerations, outright falsehoods and even stand-up-comic-like aspects – is purposeful.

    Keeping Republicans united

    The main goal of Trump’s tariff showmanship, largely unreported in the press, is keeping congressional Republicans unified as he pushes his domestic policy agenda of lower taxes, budget cuts, expanded energy production and tougher immigration policies.

    Congressional Republicans have been working for months on legislating this agenda through the complex budget reconciliation process. This legislative process is difficult and involves passing budget resolutions through the Senate and the House on a specific schedule. This process is required because it allows for a path around the 60-vote filibuster in the Senate. With only 53 Republican senators and a Democratic Party that is committed to resisting Trump on almost every policy choice, Trump needs the reconciliation process to work this year.

    In one sense, all of Trump’s activities since his inauguration – the “waste”-cutting DOGE, spending cuts, ending foreign aid programs, laying off federal workers – have given him the political space with congressional Republicans, particularly fiscal conservatives, to advance his legislative agenda. It is important to know that Congressional Republicans have been ungovernable for quite some time.

    Over the past ten years, there have been five Republican Speakers of the House – John Boehner, Paul Ryan, Kevin McCarthy, Patrick McHenry (acting) and now Mike Johnson. This unprecedented turnover is caused by a virtually unmanageable Republican coalition of mainstream business-oriented conservatives and the fiscal hawks who generally populate the Freedom Caucus. The Freedom Caucus is more than willing to vote against other Republicans – indeed they are proud of it. Because of this, speaker after speaker has had to reach out to Democrats for votes to pass legislation, ultimately dooming their time in the position.

    Trump has managed to keep this ungovernable group of House Republicans united, and this may be his true political gift.

    To achieve this, he has engaged in a comprehensive campaign of maximum pressure on just about everything: Canada, Greenland, NATO, Europe, China, Ukraine, American universities, federal workers, illegal immigrants, big law firms and even paper straws.

    Congressional Republicans, in appreciation of this shock and awe campaign, have stayed united. This means Trump’s legislative agenda can move forward.

    With his global tariff plan, Trump saw Republicans beginning to defect. In one Senate vote in April, four Republicans sided with Democrats against tariffs on Canada. Senator Ted Cruz warned that Republicans might lose the 2026 election because of tariffs. Chuck Grassley of Iowa, the oldest senator and one of the most conservative, indicated he would support bringing tariff authority back to Congress and away from the president.

    Trump can read a room as well as anyone. When he saw Republican unity was at risk because of his tariff plan, he quickly pivoted to a much more moderate version. While Trump’s grandiosity is often highly criticised, it is that quality that gives him the ability to keep his party together, and therefore to govern.

    Sparking panic among Democrats

    The other major effect of Trump’s tariffs strategy is to sow discord among his opponents.

    Democrats, who want to criticise Trump but know their own party has often endorsed tariffs in the past, are reeling. Democratic Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer said she understood Trump’s “motivation behind the tariffs” and even agreed with Trump that we “need to make more stuff in America”. She was immediately criticised by fellow Democrats.

    Hakeem Jeffries, the top Democrat in the House of Representatives, tried a slightly more aggressive anti-Trump approach. He said:

    Tariffs, when properly utilized, have a role to play in trying to make sure that you have a competitive environment for our workers and our businesses. That’s not what’s going on right now. This is a reckless economic sledgehammer that Donald Trump and compliant Republicans in the Congress are taking to the economy, and the American people are being hurt enough.

    This response won’t help Democrats climb out of their deep hole of unpopularity, measured last month at an historic low.

    Lester Munson receives funding from the U.S. Studies Centre at the University of Sydney.

    – ref. Trump’s tariffs rollercoaster is really about Republican unity – https://theconversation.com/trumps-tariffs-rollercoaster-is-really-about-republican-unity-254471

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi calls on China, Vietnam to oppose hegemonism, unilateralism, protectionism

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

    Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, meets with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh at the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    HANOI, April 14 — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday urged China and Vietnam to jointly oppose hegemonism, unilateralism and protectionism.

    In his meeting with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Xi said that under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam and the Vietnamese government, the country has achieved political and social stability, and made impressive achievements in its cause of Doi Moi (reform), while its international status is increasing, for which China feels rejoiced.

    Both sides shoulder the historical mission of realizing national rejuvenation and accelerating national development, Xi noted.

    He called on the two countries to forge a strong sense of a community with a shared future, and deepen comprehensive strategic cooperation, so as to serve their respective modernization processes, and better benefit the two peoples.

    The two sides, Xi said, should strengthen the strategic coordination and consolidate the political foundation for building a China-Vietnam community with a shared future.

    He urged the two sides to intensify high-level exchanges, strengthen strategic communication, and jointly oppose hegemonism, unilateralism and protectionism.

    Xi also called on the two sides to implement the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, so as to jointly safeguard international fairness and justice, and safeguard peace, stability, development and prosperity in Asia and beyond.

    Xi said the two sides should promote high-quality development to provide solid strategic support for the two countries’ joint march toward modernization.

    China and Vietnam, Xi said, should give full play to their geographical advantages of being connected by land and sea, strengthen the alignment of development strategies and tap the potential of industrial cooperation.

    He also called on the two countries to steadily advance cooperation in infrastructure development, enhance connectivity and ensure a smooth flow of trade.

    The two countries should expand cooperation in traditional areas such as trade and investment, and expand cooperation in emerging industries such as 5G, artificial intelligence, clean energy and digital economy.

    Xi also said China and Vietnam should firmly uphold the multilateral trading system, and work together to push for economic globalization that is more open, inclusive, balanced and beneficial to all.

    The two sides should deepen cultural cooperation and promote the main theme of China-Vietnam friendship, Xi said.

    He urged the two sides to ensure a series of activities to celebrate the 75th anniversary of China-Vietnam diplomatic ties and the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges a success, so as to tell stories well of friendship, mutually beneficial cooperation, as well as their joint pursuit of modernization.

    Xi also urged the two sides to carry out more projects to win the hearts and minds of the people and improve their lives.

    For his part, Pham Minh Chinh said that Xi’s state visit to Vietnam is the most important high-level exchange between the two countries this year, adding that this is a great, joyous event in Vietnam-China relations and of historic significance, and will surely lead Vietnam-China relations to greater development and inject strong impetus into bilateral cooperation.

    Since Xi’s visit to Vietnam in 2023, the strategic mutual trust between the two countries has been further enhanced, practical cooperation has witnessed significant progress and the friendship of the two peoples has deepened, he said.

    Vietnam attaches great importance to its relations with China and is determined to firmly promote the building of a Vietnam-China community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, said the Vietnamese prime minister.

    Noting that Vietnam sincerely congratulates China on its tremendous development achievements, he said Vietnam supports China’s sustained development and growth, and hopes to learn from China’s experience in the governance of the party and the country, its spirit of self-reliance and its development philosophy and model.

    The Vietnamese leader noted that his country looks forward to strengthening cooperation with China in areas including economy and trade, investment, connectivity, science and technology, as well as finance to enhance economic vitality and growth drivers so as to jointly cope with risks and challenges.

    He also said that Vietnam looks forward to the successful hosting of the Vietnam-China Year of People-to-People Exchanges and expects more robust personnel exchanges and sub-national cooperation, and closer bond of the two peoples.

    He said that his country also looks forward to strengthening cooperation with China in international and regional affairs, so as to maintain strategic focus in the complex and volatile international situation, and jointly safeguard multilateralism and the international order.

    Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, meets with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh at the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China launches first cross-region hydrogen heavy-duty truck route

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

    An aerial drone photo taken on April 14, 2025 shows hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks awaiting departure from the dry port of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor in Chongqing, southwest China. China’s first cross-region hydrogen heavy-duty truck route was launched on Monday, marking a milestone in terms of advancing hydrogen energy development in China’s western regions. The route, now operational for regular freight services via hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks, spans 1,150 kilometers from southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality to Qinzhou Port in south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, passing through southwestern Guizhou Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    BEIJING, April 14 — China Petrochemical Corporation, also known as Sinopec Group, which is China’s largest oil refiner, on Monday announced the official launch of the country’s first cross-region hydrogen heavy-duty truck route, marking a milestone in terms of advancing hydrogen energy development in China’s western regions.

    The route, now operational for regular freight services via hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks, spans 1,150 kilometers from southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality to Qinzhou Port in south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, passing through southwestern Guizhou Province.

    The route features four hydrogen refueling stations, all built by Sinopec, to ensure a reliable hydrogen supply network along the way.

    These regions are rich in hydrogen resources, with large-scale deployment of hydrogen production technologies such as water electrolysis and ammonia decomposition.

    With an annual industrial by-product hydrogen output exceeding 400,000 tonnes — these regions can collectively meet the fuel demands of 360,000 hydrogen-powered logistics vehicles.

    Apart from transportation, the corridor serves as an industrial nexus. It is projected to handle 220,000 units of cargo annually in two-way traffic.

    An aerial drone photo taken on April 14, 2025 shows hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks awaiting departure from the dry port of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor in Chongqing, southwest China. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on April 14, 2025 shows hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks awaiting departure from the dry port of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor in Chongqing, southwest China. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks depart from the dry port of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor in Chongqing, southwest China, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks await departure from the dry port of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor in Chongqing, southwest China, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks await departure from the dry port of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor in Chongqing, southwest China, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on April 14, 2025 shows hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks awaiting departure from the dry port of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor in Chongqing, southwest China. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on April 14, 2025 shows hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks awaiting departure from the dry port of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor in Chongqing, southwest China. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on April 14, 2025 shows hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks awaiting departure from the dry port of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor in Chongqing, southwest China. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on April 14, 2025 shows hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks awaiting departure from the dry port of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor in Chongqing, southwest China. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks await departure from the dry port of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor in Chongqing, southwest China, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Macao SAR chief executive delivers 1st policy address

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Chief Executive of China’s Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) Sam Hou Fai delivered the 2025 fiscal year policy address on Monday, outlining the overall policy direction, enhancing diversification, improving people’s livelihood, strengthening governance, and integrating into national development.
    Sam delivered his first policy address at the Legislative Assembly. He stated that the new SAR government will work closely with all sectors of society and the public to pursue innovative development and usher in a new chapter for Macao.
    He noted strengthening coordination mechanisms as a key initiative in the government’s effort to reform administration and improve governance capacity, elaborating that the government has established six leadership groups and working groups to coordinate the advancement of major cross-sectoral affairs.
    Sam also pointed out that Hengqin is key to unlocking Macao’s appropriate economic diversification, and the SAR government regards the high-quality achievement of the second-stage development goals of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin as a significant task.
    In his address, Sam set forth the government’s primary expectations for 2025: to consolidate economic recovery, improve employment conditions, deepen administrative reform, and pursue deeper integration into national development.
    He said that infrastructure connectivity within the Greater Bay Area will be further enhanced, and Macao will further enrich its role as a platform between China and Portuguese-speaking countries.
    Sam said the SAR government will move forward with several major infrastructure projects, including an international education (university) city, the Macao international integrated tourism and cultural zone, an international aviation hub along the Pearl River, and a science and technology R&D industrial park. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Harvard University rejects Trump administration’s demands on sweeping changes

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Harvard University on Monday rejected the Trump administration’s demands to make sweeping changes to its governance, hiring and admissions practices, despite billions of dollars in federal funding being at risk if it fails to comply.

    “We have informed the administration through our legal counsel that we will not accept their proposed agreement. The University will not negotiate over its independence or its constitutional rights,” Harvard University President Alan M. Garber wrote in a letter to members of the Harvard Community.

    “The administration’s prescription goes beyond the power of the federal government,” Garber argued.

    “Harvard is committed to fighting antisemitism and other forms of bigotry in its community,” two attorneys representing the university wrote in a letter Monday, while noting that “Harvard is not prepared to agree to demands that go beyond the lawful authority of this or any administration.”

    Trump administration officials on Friday sent a letter to Harvard, demanding that the university make “meaningful governance reform and restructuring,” noting that “an investment is not an entitlement.”

    “Harvard has in recent years failed to live up to both the intellectual and civil rights conditions that justify federal investment,” the letter read.

    “We therefore present the below provisions as the basis for an agreement in principle that will maintain Harvard’s financial relationship with the federal government,” according to the administration’s letter.

    The administration’s demands include: adopting and implementing merit-based hiring and admissions policies, and ceasing all preferences based on race, color, and national origin; reforming the recruitment, screening, and admissions of international students to prevent admitting students hostile to the American values and institutions, including students supportive of terrorism or antisemitism; reforming programs with “egregious records of antisemitism”; and shutting down all diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.

    The Trump administration has threatened to cut federal funding to the country’s top universities, pressuring them to implement major changes.

    It recently announced that it was reviewing 9 billion dollars in federal funding to Harvard and its affiliates.

    Columbia University, which was at the heart of last year’s pro-Palestinian protests, became the first institution to face consequences, losing 400 million dollars in federal funding last month. University officials said they are currently in ongoing discussions with the administration to have the funding reinstated. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi calls for deepening building of China-Vietnam community with a shared future

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

    Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, holds talks with To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, at the CPV Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    HANOI, April 14 — Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chinese president, on Monday called for deepening the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future.

    Xi made the remarks when meeting with General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee To Lam during his state visit to Vietnam.

    Xi pointed out that he was very pleased to pay a state visit to Vietnam and realize the first round of mutual visits with General Secretary To Lam.

    This year marks the 95th anniversary of the founding of the CPV, the 80th anniversary of the founding of Vietnam and the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South, he said, extending warm congratulations to Vietnam on behalf of the CPC and the Chinese government.

    China will, as always, support Vietnam in taking a socialist path that suits its national conditions, successfully holding the 14th National Congress of the CPV in 2026, and its steadfast pursuit of realizing the two goals set for the centenary of the party and the country.

    This year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Vietnam, as well as the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges, said Xi, stressing that over the past 75 years, regardless of changes in the international landscape, China and Vietnam have supported each other in the struggle for national independence and liberation, advanced side by side in the cause of socialist development, and forged ahead in their respective modernization endeavors, setting an example of solidarity and cooperation between socialist countries.

    Facing the changing and turbulent world, China and Vietnam have stayed committed to peaceful development and deepened their friendly cooperation, bringing much-needed stability and certainty to the world, Xi said.

    Standing at a new historical starting point, the two sides should build on past achievements, forge ahead together and carry forward the profound traditional friendship featuring “camaraderie plus brotherhood,” said Xi.

    Guided by the overall goals of achieving higher political mutual trust, more solid security cooperation, deeper practical cooperation, stronger public support, closer multilateral coordination and better management and resolution of differences, the two countries should work to advance their comprehensive strategic cooperation with high quality, ensure steady and sustained progress in building a China-Vietnam community with a shared future, and contribute even more to the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, Xi said.

    Building the China-Vietnam community with a shared future carries great global significance, Xi said, noting that as the two countries jointly pursue peaceful development, their combined population of over 1.5 billion is jointly advancing toward modernization, which will contribute to regional and global peace and stability while promoting common development.

    Both countries are committed to opening up and have played a constructive role in maintaining the stability and smooth operation of regional industrial and supply chains, as well as contributing to the advancement of economic globalization, Xi said.

    A small boat with a lone sail cannot withstand rough seas, Xi said, noting that only by working together in the same boat can they ensure stability and long-term progress.

    He noted that both China and Vietnam are beneficiaries of economic globalization, and the two sides should strengthen strategic resolve, jointly oppose unilateralism and bullying practices, and work together to uphold the global free trade system and maintain the stability of industrial and supply chains.

    Xi proposed six measures to deepen the building of the China-Vietnam community with a shared future.

    First, enhance strategic mutual trust at a higher level.

    Leaders of the two parties and countries should communicate with each other as relatives, Xi said, noting the two sides should give full play to the role of channels including inter-party, legislative bodies and political consultative organizations, deepen the exchange of experience in governance, and improve the leadership of the two parties in promoting national modernization.

    Second, build a stronger security barrier.

    The two sides should set the “3+3” strategic dialogue on diplomacy, defense and public security between the two countries at the ministerial level to enhance strategic coordination.

    It is necessary to give full play to the role of defense and law enforcement security cooperation mechanisms, resolutely tackle online gambling, telecom fraud and other cross-border crimes, strengthen bilateral and multilateral law enforcement and judicial cooperation, especially within the framework of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation, so as to safeguard people’s lives and property and uphold regional peace and stability.

    Third, expand higher quality mutually beneficial cooperation.

    Seize the major opportunities of China’s new quality productive forces and Vietnam’s new productive forces to accelerate the formation of practical cooperation between the two countries. Realize the comprehensive connection of standard-gauge railways, highways, and smart ports at an early date. Promote high-tech cooperation such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things. China’s mega market is always open to Vietnam, and the country welcomes more high-quality Vietnamese products. China encourages its companies to invest in Vietnam and hopes that Vietnam will create a more fair and friendly business environment.

    Fourth, tighten the bonds of people-to-people ties.

    China and Vietnam should take the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges as an opportunity and organize more people-oriented exchange activities, and enhance cooperation in tourism, culture, media, public health and other fields.

    The two sides should continue to explore resources of revolutionary heritage and promote stories of friendship. In the next three years, China will invite Vietnamese youth to China for “Red Study Tours,” which will help the younger generation of both countries better understand the hard-won nature of the socialist countries and the great value of China-Vietnam good-neighborliness and friendly cooperation, and will cultivate greater vitality for the development of bilateral relations and the respective national development endeavors.

    Fifth, conduct closer multilateral coordination.

    China and Vietnam should jointly uphold the outcomes of World War II, firmly safeguard the international system with the United Nations at its core and the international order based on international law, promote a more equal and orderly multi-polar world and an economic globalization that is more inclusive and beneficial for all, and enhance cooperation under the frameworks of the three major global initiatives.

    China will stay committed to the principles of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness, and to the policy of pursuing friendship and partnership with its neighbors. It will deepen friendly cooperation with neighboring countries so that the fruits of Chinese modernization can better benefit the region.

    Sixth, achieve more positive maritime interaction.

    The two countries should earnestly implement the consensus reached by leaders of the two countries, properly manage maritime issues, expand maritime cooperation, demonstrate resolve in launching joint development, and work toward the early conclusion of a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.

    For his part, To Lam extended a warm welcome to Xi on his state visit to Vietnam, which took place on the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. He said that Xi is not only an outstanding leader of the Chinese people but also a great friend of the Vietnamese people.

    Xi’s choice to make Vietnam his first overseas destination this year fully reflects the importance he attaches to China-Vietnam relations and his support for Vietnam, the Vietnamese leader said. This visit will mark a new milestone in the history of friendly exchanges between the two parties and countries, further advancing the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, he added.

    Under Xi’s strong leadership, To Lam noted, China has achieved historic accomplishments in advancing socialism with Chinese characteristics, made comprehensive progress in its path to modernization, and witnessed rapid development of new quality productive forces. With China’s international stature on the rise, Vietnam extends its congratulations and expresses gratitude for China’s long-standing support and assistance, he said.

    Emphasizing that both Vietnam and China are socialist countries under the leadership of a communist party, To Lam said that developing relations with China is an objective requirement, a strategic choice, and a top priority for Vietnam. Vietnam firmly adheres to the one-China policy, supports China’s efforts toward national reunification, and resolutely opposes any separatist actions aimed at “Taiwan independence,” he said.

    Advancing Vietnam-China relations, To Lam noted, is in the fundamental interest of both peoples and conforms with the trend of the times. Vietnam looks forward to strengthening high-level exchanges between the two parties and countries, enhancing exchanges on governance experience, deepening strategic security cooperation, and continually consolidating political mutual trust; further elevating bilateral cooperation by creating new highlights in areas such as trade, science and technology, infrastructure and environmental protection; and promoting people-to-people exchanges, encouraging local and youth interactions, and enhancing tourism cooperation to nurture closer bonds between the peoples, he said.

    Vietnam supports the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind and the three major global initiatives proposed by Xi, To Lam said. Vietnam lauds the vision set forth during the CPC’s central conference on work related to neighboring countries, which envisions building a peaceful, safe and secure, prosperous, beautiful and amicable home with neighboring countries and insists on fostering friendly, mutually beneficial and prosperous relationships, he said.

    Vietnam is ready to strengthen coordination and cooperation with China, uphold multilateralism and the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, safeguard international trade rules, abide by the agreements signed by both sides, and jointly make greater contributions to world peace and human progress, To Lam said, adding that Vietnam is also willing to properly address maritime differences with China to ensure maritime stability.

    Before the talks, To Lam invited Xi to a small-group chat over tea. The two general secretaries exchanged views on party building and national governance. Xi stressed that party building is crucial to the destiny of the party and the country, and that the party’s work style bears on whether it can win public support. The CPC Central Committee has decided to carry out an in-depth campaign throughout the party this year to learn and implement the spirit of the eight-point decision on improving work conduct. This is intended to secure new achievements in work style transformation to further support comprehensive reform and advance modernization. Both general secretaries agreed to strengthen exchanges and mutual learning, and pursue progress in socialist development.

    After the talks, the two leaders witnessed the display of 45 bilateral cooperation documents signed by China and Vietnam. These documents cover areas including connectivity, artificial intelligence, customs inspection and quarantine, agricultural trade, culture and sports, public welfare, human resource development, media, and more.

    Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, holds talks with To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, at the CPV Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, holds talks with To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, at the CPV Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, invites Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, to a small chat over tea before their talks at the CPV Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, and To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, witness the display of 45 bilateral cooperation documents signed by the two sides after their talks in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. Xi held talks with To Lam at the CPV Central Committee headquarters on Monday. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi urges China, Vietnam to jointly march toward modernization

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

    Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, meets with Chairman of the National Assembly of Vietnam Tran Thanh Man at the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    HANOI, April 14 — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday called on China and Vietnam to march toward modernization hand in hand.

    In his meeting with Chairman of the National Assembly of Vietnam Tran Thanh Man, Xi also urged the two sides to inject more stability and positive energy into the world.

    Xi pointed out that his state visit to Vietnam once again allowed him to witness the new achievements in Vietnam’s cause of Doi Moi (reform) and personally experience the profound foundation of China-Vietnam friendship.

    At present, China is comprehensively advancing the building of a strong country and the great cause of national rejuvenation through Chinese modernization, and Vietnam will usher in a new era of national rise, Xi said, adding that both sides are at a crucial stage of their respective development and rejuvenation.

    Facing an international landscape fraught with changes and turbulence, Xi said, China and Vietnam should strengthen confidence in their paths and systems, enhance solidarity and coordination, continue to build the China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, join hands to march toward modernization, and inject more stability and positive energy into the world.

    Xi stressed that both China and Vietnam are socialist countries led by a communist party, and the political direction is crucial to the future of the parties and countries, as well as the success of their causes.

    Xi said the top leaders of the two parties and countries should exchange views on bilateral relations and major issues of common concern in a timely manner, continue to build consensus, enhance mutual trust and steer the course steadily, so as to ensure the steady progress of China-Vietnam relations.

    It is necessary to maintain exchanges and cooperation between the two parties, legislative bodies and political consultative organizations, and to keep sharing governance experiences, Xi added.

    The two sides should take the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges as an opportunity to carry forward the “red gene” and make good use of the revolutionary resources to enhance mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples, especially the young generation, and strengthen the friendly bond between the two countries, Xi added.

    Recognizing the frequent exchanges and fruitful cooperation between China’s National People’s Congress and Vietnam’s National Assembly, Xi said the two countries’ legislatures should do more to strengthen traditional friendship, ensure practical cooperation and strengthen multilateral coordination, carry out exchanges on the development of socialist democracy and rule of law, and continuously enrich the substance of the China-Vietnam community with a shared future.

    For his part, Tran Thanh Man said that Vietnam and China, connected by mountains and rivers, have forged a sincere friendship featuring “camaraderie plus brotherhood” under the careful nurturing of successive leaders of the two parties and countries, and the two sides have maintained long-standing friendly relations.

    He said the visit of Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, fully demonstrates the importance attached by the CPC, the country and the Chinese people to Vietnam-China ties.

    He said the two general secretaries have provided important strategic guidance on advancing the building of the Vietnam-China community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, which will open a new chapter in bilateral relations.

    The Vietnamese National Assembly congratulated China for successfully convening the “two sessions” and looked forward to conducting close communication and cooperation with China’s National People’s Congress, implementing the important consensus reached by the top leaders of the two parties and countries, and contributing to the common prosperity and development of the two countries and friendship between the peoples, Tran Thanh Man said.

    Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, meets with Chairman of the National Assembly of Vietnam Tran Thanh Man at the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: Preferred Bank Announces 2025 First Quarter Earnings Release and Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, April 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Preferred Bank (NASDAQ: PFBC), one of the larger independent commercial banks in California, today announced plans to release its financial results for the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2025 before the open of market on Friday, April 25, 2025. That same day, management will host a conference call at 2:00 p.m. Eastern (11:00 a.m. Pacific). The call will be simultaneously broadcast over the Internet.

    Interested participants and investors may access the conference call by dialing 844-826-3037 (domestic) or
    412-317-5182 (international) and referencing “Preferred Bank.” There will also be a live webcast of the call available at the Investor Relations section of Preferred Bank’s website at www.preferredbank.com.

    Preferred Bank’s Chairman and CEO Li Yu, President and Chief Operating Officer Wellington Chen, Chief Financial Officer Edward J. Czajka, Chief Credit Officer Nick Pi and Deputy Chief Operating Officer Johnny Hsu will discuss Preferred Bank’s financial results, business highlights and outlook. After the live webcast, a replay will be available at the Investor Relations section of Preferred Bank’s website. A replay of the call will also be available at 877-344-7529 (domestic) or 412-317-0088 (international) through May 2, 2025; the passcode is 8939265.

    About Preferred Bank

    Preferred Bank is one of the larger independent commercial banks headquartered in California. The Bank is chartered by the State of California, and its deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, or FDIC, to the maximum extent permitted by law. The Bank conducts its banking business from its main office in Los Angeles, California, and through twelve full-service branch banking offices in the California cities of Alhambra, Century City, City of Industry, Torrance, Arcadia, Irvine (2 branches), Diamond Bar, Pico Rivera, Tarzana and San Francisco (2 branches), two branches in New York (Manhattan and Flushing) and one branch in the Houston suburb of Sugar Land, Texas. Additionally, the Bank operates a Loan Production Office in Sunnyvale, California. Preferred Bank offers a broad range of deposit and loan products and services to both commercial and consumer customers. The Bank provides personalized deposit services as well as real estate finance, commercial loans and trade finance to small and mid-sized businesses, entrepreneurs, real estate developers, professionals and high net worth individuals. Although originally founded as a Chinese-American Bank, Preferred Bank now derives most of its customers from the diversified mainstream market but does continue to benefit from the significant migration to California of ethnic Chinese from China and other areas of East Asia.

    AT THE COMPANY: 
    Edward J. Czajka
    Executive Vice President
    Chief Financial Officer
    (213) 891-1188    		 AT FINANCIAL PROFILES:
    Jeffrey Haas
    General Information
    (310) 622-8240
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  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin, Klobuchar Press Trump Administration for Answers on Impacts of Trade War on Farmers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) joined Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and 17 of her colleagues to press the Trump Administration for information on how their reckless tariff policy will impact farmers across the nation.

    “We write with great concern about the impact of the Administration’s reckless tariff agenda on our nation’s farmers,” wrote the Senators to President Trump’s U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Jamieson Greer. “Farmers not only have billions of dollars in commodities from last year waiting to be sold, but also have started spring planting and rely on stable markets for their planning.”

    “As farm organizations and economists have been warning for months, key trading partners will continue to retaliate against U.S. agricultural products as a result of President Trump’s tariffs,” the Senators continued. “The direct economic impact and uncertainty on America’s farmers stands to change the future of agricultural trade relationships for generations.”

    The full letter is available here and below.

    Dear Ambassador Greer,

    We write with great concern about the impact of the Administration’s reckless tariff agenda on our nation’s farmers. Farmers not only have billions of dollars in commodities from last year waiting to be sold, but also have started spring planting and rely on stable markets for their planning. These farmers have made planting decisions and purchased key inputs such as seeds and fertilizer, selected crop insurance coverage, and even began marketing their expected production. Long before the President’s across-the-board tariff announcement, millions of acres of fall-planted crops like winter wheat were already in the ground and farmers already have enough uncertainty without tariffs adding more volatility.

    We continue to hear from farmers and businesses across the agricultural supply chain who are bearing the brunt of the negative impacts of the global tariffs announced by President Trump on April 2, 2025, and earlier tariffs on Canada and Mexico. These actions and the resulting retaliation have injected further uncertainty into the farm economy and continue to rattle commodity markets. Heading into this year, farmers were already facing tightened margins resulting from declining commodity prices and heightened input costs. Many farmers are in a much worse position than they were heading into the 2018-2019 trade war and so are less equipped to withstand the impacts of continued volatility.

    As farm organizations and economists have been warning for months, key trading partners will continue to retaliate against U.S. agricultural products as a result of President Trump’s tariffs. For example, on April 3rd, China announced a 34 percent retaliatory tariff on all products from the U.S. A major export destination for U.S.-grown soybeans, futures prices dropped 34 cents on Friday, with an estimated loss in value of unsold 2024 soybeans of nearly $300 million. That Friday drop would also cost farmers nearly $1.4 billion on the 2025 crop. Cotton, another crop that is heavily reliant on exports followed a similar steep decline. Since then, volatility in the markets has continued as the Administration has continued to change the tariffs day-by-day and sometimes hour-by-hour. While the tariffs are currently 10 percent across-the-board for nearly all countries except China, this continued uncertainty is the last thing farmers need as they begin planting season.

    Farmers are also continuing to experience the long-term implications of the 2018-2019 trade war when structural trade flows shifted to favor farmers in Brazil and Argentina. A prolonged trade war now with key trading partners will just further exacerbate those trade shifts. This market share that farmers are losing is the result of more than $15 billion in investments by both taxpayers and the farmers themselves through trade promotion programs over the last 50 years.

    The direct economic impact and uncertainty on America’s farmers stands to change the future of agricultural trade relationships for generations. As such, we request responses to the following questions: 

    • Did USTR perform any analysis on the impact of the across-the-board tariff policy on farmers prior to implementation? If so, please share that analysis with us. 
      • What do you expect to be the short- and long-term impacts of tariffs on farmers?
    • There have been conflicting reports as to whether tariffs are being used as leverage in trade negotiations or as a long-term structural shift in trade policy. 
      • Can you provide clarity on the goals of the administration’s trade policy?
      • If tariffs are being used as leverage in trade negotiations, what are your top agriculture priorities and markets?  What countries are you prioritizing in negotiations, and what is the basis for determining those countries?
    • President Trump indicated that U.S. farmers need to get ready to supply the domestic market instead of the international markets.  
      • Has USTR or have other agencies done analysis to show how production and consumption of crops would need to shift, or what domestic processing would be necessary to accomplish this goal?  For example, there is very limited domestic cotton spinning, weaving or apparel manufacturing.
      • Significant parts of the agricultural trade imbalance are related to imports of specialty crops, many of which are either grown in tropical regions or imported during the off-season.  U.S. farmers will not be able to produce these commodities in the same volume or season.  Will consumers need to shift from fresh produce in the off season or be forced to pay a higher price due to the tariffs on these products?
    • Prior to the announcement of the across-the-board tariffs and per-country rates, the USDA announced plans for trade missions to several countries including some with tariffs as high as 46%.    
      • Did USTR consult with USDA on the trade missions or setting tariffs based on targets for opening markets?  

    We have serious concerns about the haphazard approach taken by the Administration to tariffs that cause unnecessary uncertainty and harm for U.S. farmers and their markets.  We look forward to a prompt response.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer Remarks at Press Conference on the Impact of Trump’s Proposed Cuts to NASA Goddard Space Flight Center

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) delivered remarks at a press conference with U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Congressman Glenn Ivey (MD-04) outside of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland following a tour of the facility and a briefing from officials on its missions. Below is a full transcript of his opening remarks:
     

    Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) speaking at a press conference outside of the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center.

    “Thank you very much, Senator. I had the great privilege of representing Goddard for 42 years, so I’ve been here a while, [and] I know the extraordinary work that goes on here. The extraordinary work that we cannot predict the specific advances that this will make in science and technology and the economic effect that it will have, but we do know from the many past years of NASA that they will occur, even though we may not know the specifics of it. I am pleased to join Glenn Ivey, who now represents this area, but he and I think of Prince George’s County as a unit, not as a single or two units, and we represent them together. And I’m so glad to be on Team Ivey, with respect to Goddard Space Flight Center.

    “Let me say, I was a colleague of Bill Nelson. Some of you may remember Senator Nelson. Senator Nelson served in the United States House of Representatives, and I served with him. He then went to the United States Senate, and then he went to space. He was the ‘Senator in Space.’ He came back and he was one of the great proponents, not only of Goddard Space Flight Center, but all of the NASA components. And then, of course, he became the administrator of NASA in the last administration. He heard about this proposal, and here’s what he said: ‘They’re going to run NASA into a very deep ditch if they proceed with this kind of savagery.’ His words, not mine. He went on to say, ‘If you savaged NASA science, you have savaged our entire exploration program. And that will affect the human exploration program as well,’ which was essentially, Senator, what you said.

    “We’ve seen, over the last three months, an effort to essentially disassemble American enterprise, American government, and American progress by a group that knew everything about how they were going to do it and do it quickly. But as in this instance, in almost every instance in which they’ve undertaken, they do not know the consequences, and the consequences will be dire, as Senator Nelson said, with respect to Goddard Space Flight Center.

    “This center is the envy of one of our greatest competitors: China. This enterprise is going to be critical as we compete with China in science and in space and in technology. To disassemble this, to cut it in half, and Senator Van Hollen made the point that we were going to abandon the investment that’s already been made. Now, let me say what that investment is: $3 billion has gone into the Roman telescope and to look for habitable worlds, Senator. What they’re cutting is $600 million, which is the completion of this program, as Senator Van Hollen said, our budget. What a penny wise and pound foolish that decision would be.

    “I am going to urge, Senator Van Hollen’s going to urge, and Glenn Ivey is certainly going to be leading the pack for the Congress not to do this. And I predict that Congress is not going to do this because it makes no economic sense, it makes no competitive sense, [and] it makes no national security sense for them to do this.

    “The people who are doing this know the cost of everything and the value of nothing. We need to make sure that America continues to be a leader: a leader in space, a leader in culture, a leader in economics. This center is absolutely critical to be able to make the further investment to complete a project, which, as you said, is on budget, so far on time.

    “So, I’m pleased to join my two colleagues, Senator Van Hollen and Congressman Ivey. And we are going to fight this with every fiber in our bodies, because America’s future success and national security depend upon it. Now let me yield to my dear colleague Glenn Ivey, who, while a new Member of Congress as a Member, worked for the Congress for many, many years. He has extraordinary experience in our state and around the country, and he was an extraordinary partner of mine as we represent, not only with Senator Van Hollen and Senator Alsobrooks, our districts, our state, and also the national interest. Congressman Ivey.”

    MIL OSI USA News –