NewzIntel.com

Category: China

  • MIL-OSI China: Anti-graft chief stresses high-quality disciplinary inspection

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Li Xi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the central leading group on disciplinary inspection, speaks at a meeting on national disciplinary inspection work on April 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    China’s top anti-graft official Li Xi on Tuesday called for efforts to provide strong support for Chinese modernization with high-quality disciplinary inspection work.
    He also stressed that the inspection in provincial-level localities should better serve and support the central task of the Communist Party of China (CPC).
    Li, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and head of the central leading group on disciplinary inspection, made the remarks at a meeting on national disciplinary inspection work. The meeting also marked the initiation of the fifth round of disciplinary inspection missions of the 20th CPC Central Committee.
    The new round of inspection will focus on the country’s provincial-level localities.
    Noting that relevant inspection should concentrate on the Party Central Committee’s functional positioning and strategic deployment for each respective region, Li called for efforts to identify the localities’ deviations in the political realm and make sure that prominent problems are properly addressed.
    Li also stressed that inspection work should strictly adhere to the requirements of advancing Chinese modernization, underlining a problem-oriented and rigorous approach in relevant work. He urged efforts to improve inspection methods and concrete measures to ensure relevant problems are solved.
    On the same day, a list of the targets of the new round of inspection was announced. It includes provincial-level regions such as Hebei, Shanxi and Inner Mongolia. Yunnan’s provincial capital city, Kunming, will also be covered in the central authorities’ inspection.
    The inspectors will also work with local disciplinary agencies to carry out inspections in cities such as Changchun and Hangzhou.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: MPay can be used in Guangzhou public transport

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Macao residents can now use their familiar MPay e-wallet to scan and ride on all public transport in Guangzhou. [Photo provided to China Daily]
    MPay, Macao’s most frequently used local electronic wallet, has become the second overseas e-wallet approved for use on public transportation in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, following Hong Kong’s AlipayHK.
    Since early April, Macao residents have been able to use MPay to access all public transportation routes in Guangzhou. The expansion allows residents from both of China’s special administrative regions to travel more conveniently within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
    The service, a collaboration between Guangzhou Metro Group, MPay and Alipay+, is part of Ant Group’s fintech offerings. Through Alipay+’s cross-border services, Macao residents can use MPay to scan and pay for rides across all public transportation in Guangzhou, including metro lines, buses and ferries. The service also extends to metro lines in Foshan, a city neighboring Guangzhou.
    Guangzhou is the first city on the Chinese mainland to support full access for e-wallets from all parts of the Greater Bay Area, reinforcing the region’s goal of seamless connectivity.
    Currently, tourists from the Chinese mainland use Alipay when visiting Hong Kong and Macao, while visitors from those regions use AlipayHK and MPay, respectively, when traveling to the mainland.
    With the new service, Macao residents can not only use MPay for cross-border transactions, but also for seamless travel on all Guangzhou public transportation routes, paying in Macao currency in real time. They will also receive the same discounts as local passengers under Guangzhou’s public transportation fare policies, according to Guangzhou Metro Group.
    “By integrating with the Guangzhou public transportation system, this not only sets a benchmark for cross-border commuting within the Greater Bay Area but also helps promote the deep integration of the ‘one-hour living circle’ within the region,” said Sun Ho, chairman and CEO of Macau Pass, MPay’s operating company.
    Alipay+ has previously enabled AlipayHK to connect to public transportation in key Greater Bay Area cities, including Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Foshan.
    Last year, Hong Kong users of AlipayHK recorded more than 10 million cross-border transportation trips heading northward, according to Alipay+ data.
    “The high-frequency cross-border transportation services are a daily necessity for the interconnected life of residents in the Greater Bay Area,” said Venetia Lee, Greater China general manager of Ant International.
    Alipay+ plans to expand e-wallet integration in the Greater Bay Area beyond transportation, aiming to include services such as healthcare and government affairs, Lee said.
    “Our goal is to provide more inclusive support for residents in cross-border travel, work, family visits and daily life, using innovative technology to enhance the region’s digital ecosystem,” she said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Pets allowed on high-speed railway trains

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    A dog is taken care of at the pet waiting lounge of Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport in Shenzhen, south China’s Guangdong Province, May 8, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    China’s railway operator on Tuesday launched a pilot program allowing pets to travel on select high-speed trains along the Beijing-Shanghai High-Speed Railway, marking a first for the country’s rail system.
    The trial service, introduced by China Railway Express Co, enables passengers to book a spot for their cat or dog in a specially designed pet transport container aboard the same train. However, animals are housed separately in a designated logistics compartment, away from passenger seating areas.
    The pilot service is being tested on 10 train services running between five major stations: Beijing South, Jinan West, Nanjing South, Shanghai Hongqiao and Hangzhou East. Travelers can make reservations through the 12306 system, the railway ticket and service booking network, at least two days in advance.
    Each pet must be a domesticated cat or dog in good health, weighing no more than 15 kilograms and no taller than 40 centimeters at the shoulder. Required documents include a valid ID and a certificate of animal quarantine.
    Pets are placed in high-speed rail-exclusive containers equipped with air circulation, oxygen and humidity sensors, noise reduction and odor control. The containers are monitored in real time by railway staff, who conduct inspections at intervals of no more than two hours. Water may be provided as needed, though feeding and mid-journey visits by owners are not permitted.
    Passengers are advised to arrive at the station two to six hours before departure to complete the necessary check-in procedures. Pets can be collected within one hour after arrival, with pickup notifications sent via text message or phone call.
    The service follows a “same departure, same arrival” policy, ensuring that pets and their owners travel on the same train.
    Limited time offers
    Pricing is based on travel distance and is currently offered at a 30 percent discount during the trial phase. For example, transporting a pet on a journey under 1,000 kilometers will cost 558 yuan ($76) once the service is fully implemented, but for the trial period, it is discounted to 360 yuan.
    For distances between 1,000 and 1,500 km — like the 1,300-km route between Beijing and Shanghai — the standard rate will be 658 yuan, but currently costs 460 yuan.
    A second-class seat on the same high-speed route typically costs between 550 and 670 yuan, making the pet transport service comparably priced to a passenger fare. Each booking includes insurance coverage of up to 2,000 yuan.
    According to China Railway Express, the service is part of broader efforts to modernize the country’s transportation infrastructure and meet the growing demand for pet-friendly travel options.
    Before this initiative, pets were not permitted on China’s high-speed trains. However, pet transport is allowed on certain routes in countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom under specific conditions. In China, updated regulations issued in July 2022 prohibit the carriage of live animals such as chickens or ducks on passenger trains, with some exceptions for slower services in rural areas.
    The idea for the new service emerged last year when the China Railway Customer Service Center launched a public survey to gauge interest in pet transportation. The campaign drew widespread attention on Chinese social media, generating millions of views and comments.
    “In recent years, we have received numerous inquiries from passengers regarding the possibility of pet transportation on high-speed trains,” the center said in a statement. “Based on feedback from the survey, we will further explore the feasibility of high-speed pet transportation. We welcome suggestions and opinions from the public.”
    Shen Peilan, a Shanghai native living in Beijing with two cats, welcomed the move but expressed concerns about animal welfare.
    “It’s a great start, but I’m still a bit concerned about the safety of the pets, especially cats, who can get very stressed when confined with other animals,” Shen said. “I really hope that in the future, there could be a dedicated carriage where pets can stay with their owners.”
    Shen said she typically leaves her cats in Beijing during holidays and relies on friends, pet care services or boarding at pet stores while she visits family in Shanghai.
    Other pet owners applauded the new service. Wei, a Beijing resident who has raised her cat Niuniu for over a decade, said the program would make her travels more enjoyable.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: At least 27 dead after nightclub roof collapse in Dominican Republic

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Aerial photo taken on April 8, 2025 shows the site of a nightclub roof collapse in Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic. [Photo/Xinhua]

    At least 27 people were killed Tuesday when the roof of the Jet Set nightclub collapsed in Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, authorities confirmed.

    The collapse occurred in the early hours of the morning during a live music event. Emergency officials said 134 people were rescued with injuries and taken to local hospitals.

    “We’re continuing rescue efforts and believe some people may still be alive under the rubble,” said Juan Manuel Mendez, director of the Emergency Operations Center (COE). “We won’t stop until every last person is accounted for.”

    Rescue teams and volunteers reported hearing cries for help from beneath the debris, prompting ongoing efforts at the site.

    Jet Set is a well-known nightclub in Santo Domingo and often hosts live performances during the week. On the night of the collapse, popular Dominican jazz and merengue artist Rubby Perez was scheduled to perform.

    Dominican President Luis Abinader posted a message on social media expressing his condolences and saying he had been monitoring the situation “minute by minute.”

    “All emergency agencies have responded and are working tirelessly on the rescue efforts. Our prayers are with the affected families,” he said.

    The cause of the collapse is under investigation. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Pingwang Bridge under construction in China’s Jiangsu

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

    Pingwang Bridge under construction in China’s Jiangsu

    Updated: April 9, 2025 09:09 Xinhua
    An aerial drone photo taken on April 8, 2025 shows a vessel passing under the Pingwang Bridge in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province. The Pingwang Bridge, a project of the east part of the Chang-Hu-Shen (Changxin-Huzhou-Shanghai) navigation channel (Jiangsu section) improvement project, is under construction. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on April 8, 2025 shows vessels passing under the Pingwang Bridge in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A staff member works at the construction site of the Pingwang Bridge in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province, April 7, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on April 8, 2025 shows a vessel passing under the Pingwang Bridge in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on April 8, 2025 shows the construction site of the Pingwang Bridge in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on April 8, 2025 shows vessels passing under the Pingwang Bridge in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on April 8, 2025 shows the construction site of the Pingwang Bridge in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Staff members work at the construction site of the Pingwang Bridge in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province, April 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China Pavilion to delight visitors at Expo 2025

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

    A media day event at the China Pavilion of Expo 2025 in the Japanese city of Osaka offered a preview of exhibitions centered on green development, cutting-edge technologies, and the vision of harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.

    Held on Monday, the China Media Day event showcased the pavilion’s design and displays, all unified under the core theme: “Building a Community of Life for Man and Nature — Future Society of Green Development”.

    Li Qingshuang, deputy head of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade and government representative for the China Pavilion, said: “The exhibitions at the China Pavilion closely align with the expo’s theme and emphasize immersion, interactivity and experience. The presentation methods are diverse, blending tradition and modernity, and rich in cultural sentiment.”

    Covering an area of around 3,500 square meters, the China Pavilion stands as one of the largest foreign self-built pavilions at Expo 2025, also known as the World Expo, which will open in Osaka on Sunday and run for six months.

    During the expo, the Walker C humanoid robot, developed by UBTech Robotics, will interact with visitors at the south plaza of the China Pavilion, offering intelligent tour guide services and human-robot interaction experiences.

    The mythological figure Sun Wukong, also known as the Monkey King, will make an appearance at the China Pavilion. This version of Sun Wukong is powered by a next-generation cognitive intelligence model developed by Chinese information technology company iFlytek. It integrates cutting-edge technologies such as robust noise-resistant speech recognition, multiemotion voice synthesis and multimodal interaction.

    Visitors will be able to engage in interactive Q&A sessions with Sun Wukong in Chinese, Japanese and English.

    One of the highlights at the China Pavilion will be samples brought back from the moon by the Chang’e 5 and Chang’e 6 lunar probes.

    “This will be the most precious exhibit the China Pavilion presents to global visitors during Expo 2025.It will also be the world’s first side-by-side, close-up display of samples from both the near and far sides of the moon,” Li said.

    She emphasized that visitors will have the opportunity to observe the distinct structures of the lunar samples and the subtle differences between both sides of the moon through a specially designed lens installation. Nearby, a video message from three Chinese astronauts aboard the space station will offer greetings to visitors at the China Pavilion.

    According to Liu Shuo, deputy director of the China Pavilion, its design was inspired by traditional bamboo slips, incorporating cultural elements such as bamboo and Chinese characters.

    The pavilion will be in three sections, each highlighting a different facet of China’s approach to sustainability — its traditional ecological philosophy, contemporary green development efforts, and the vision for global collaboration toward a sustainable future.

    The “Harmony Between Humanity and Nature” section delves into traditional Chinese culture, emphasizing the deep-rooted wisdom and reverence the Chinese people have for the natural world.

    The “Green Mountains and Clear Waters” section presents China’s modern commitment to green development, showcasing its efforts to drive comprehensive economic and social transformation through sustainable practices.

    The “Endless Vitality” section looks to the future, featuring China’s exploration of outer space and the deep sea, and its dedication to working with the international community to build a greener and more beautiful Earth.

    The Future Smart City exhibition, organized by China Energy Engineering Group, presents a vision for future urban development. It integrates eight types of urban networks — including energy, digital, transportation and industrial networks — demonstrating China’s technological breakthroughs and practical applications in areas such as clean energy, artificial intelligence and urban development.

    Liu said the China Pavilion will host a wide variety of events during the expo. The pavilion will officially open on Sunday, and the National Pavilion Day falls on July 11.

    Thirty Chinese provinces, autonomous regions, municipalities and the city of Shenzhen will hold themed events at the pavilion. Additionally, many government agencies and businesses will organize cultural, technological and economic exchange activities.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Trump administration revokes visas for foreign students

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The Trump administration has revoked visas for more than 300 international students across the United States, a move confirmed by universities and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio as part of a nationwide effort targeting foreign students.

    “Maybe more than 300 at this point. We do it every day. Every time I find one of these lunatics, I take away their visas,” Rubio said during a press conference in Guyana on March 27.

    Over the weekend, the visa revocations were reported by dozens of universities nationwide, including prestigious ones like Columbia, Cornell, Harvard and Stanford.

    Many affected students had participated in pro-Palestinian campus protests. But university officials said that others with no connection to protests had also suffered visa revocations without explanation.

    At Tufts University, Turkish doctoral student Rumeysa Ozturk was arrested by masked immigration agents on March 25 while walking near her home. Video of the arrest showed plainclothes officers taking the 30-year-old into custody as she was heading to break her Ramadan fast with friends, according to her attorney.

    The Department of Homeland Security claimed Ozturk “engaged in activities in support of Hamas,” though they provided no evidence for this allegation. Ozturk co-authored an opinion piece in the student newspaper criticizing Tufts’ response to the Israel-Gaza conflict.

    The Turkish embassy said it was working with U.S. authorities regarding Ozturk’s detention. “Every effort is being made to provide the necessary consular services and legal support to protect the rights of our citizen,” the embassy stated.

    At Columbia University, graduate student Mahmoud Khalil, who has legal permanent residency, was detained by immigration authorities last month.

    Khalil said in his Columbia Daily Spectator opinion piece that the school “laid the groundwork for my abduction” and urged the students not to “abdicate their responsibility to resist repression.”

    “Since my abduction on March 8, the intimidation and kidnapping of international students who stand for Palestine has only accelerated,” Khalil wrote in Friday’s piece.

    The actions extend beyond East Coast schools. The University of Colorado and Colorado State University reported a combined total of 10 students with revoked visas this weekend. Meanwhile, Minnesota State University identified five students whose visas were canceled for unclear reasons.

    In California, the situation is equally concerning so far.

    University of California, Los Angeles reported nine affected international students, while UC Berkeley confirmed six visa revocations — four for current students and two for recent graduates.

    UC Davis officials stated seven students and five recent graduates had their visas terminated, and Stanford University confirmed six visa revocations.

    “The federal government has not explained the reasons behind these terminations,” UC Davis said in a statement as reported by NBC News.

    Universities are scrambling to support affected students.

    “We are focused on supporting the success of all of our students, including international students. Each one of our students is seeking to advance their careers and the lives of their families, and we understand the anxieties that visa revocations cause to impacted students,” reported NBC News, citing University of Colorado.

    The Council of University of California Faculty Associations issued a statement Sunday, urgently calling upon the University of California to address the revocation of visas and deportation of international students.

    “It has been reported that in the past week alone, at least 44 students across the UC system have had their I-20 Student and Exchange Visitor Information System record terminated by the Department of Homeland Security, with at least one deportation occurring,” the statement noted.

    Civil rights organizations have condemned the administration’s actions. The American Civil Liberties Union issued an open letter to universities warning: “The federal government cannot mandate student expulsions or threaten funding cuts to suppress constitutionally protected speech.”

    College officials worry this crackdown will deter international students from studying in the United States in the future.

    The situation is “a far different, unprecedented intrusion by the executive branch” involving “revoking student visas for different reasons than we have seen previously and at higher rates than we have ever seen,” said Violeta Chapin, a University of Colorado Boulder law professor and immigration expert. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China unveils guidelines to boost employment for graduates

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Job-seekers pose queries at a job fair in Kunming, capital of Yunnan province. [Photo/China Daily]

    China has released new guidelines on building a high-quality system of employment services for university graduates.

    The policy document, issued by the General Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the General Office of the State Council, outlines a comprehensive strategy to promote sufficient high-quality employment among college graduates.

    It highlights six key areas of focus: optimizing the higher education training system, strengthening career guidance services, improving job-market and recruitment systems, enhancing support mechanisms for jobseekers in difficulty, innovating employment monitoring and evaluation tools, and reinforcing supports and safeguards for graduate employment.

    The document sets the goal of establishing a nationwide employment services network that is inclusive, well-functioning and reliable within three to five years, laying a solid foundation for graduates to find jobs.

    China’s higher education graduate population has grown steadily, exceeding 10 million annually for three consecutive years since 2022, with the number projected to continue rising over the next decade, said a senior official from the Ministry of Education.

    Stressing the urgent need to bridge the gap between higher education programs and societal needs, the official said that the guidelines propose creating a centralized talent demand database and conducting forward-looking analysis of talent supply and demand.

    The government will also optimize disciplinary configurations and enhance coordination linking enrollment plans, talent cultivation, and employment outcomes, the official said.

    In order to promote employment, the guideline demands supporting student entrepreneurship to encourage job creation through startups and facilitating the hiring of urgently needed talent in key sectors through supply-demand alignment programs, according to the official.

    The guideline also recommends reserving time during academic schedules for students to pursue pre-graduation job opportunities, added the official.

    Official data shows that the number of college graduates in China is likely to reach 12.22 million in 2025, an increase of 430,000 from last year.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Universities – Global EV adoption fails to cut CO₂ – study – UoA

    Source: University of Auckland (UoA)

    There’s little point in buying an electric vehicle if you’re charging it with electricity generated by fossil fuels. In fact, when it comes to carbon dioxide emissions, your EV may be doing more harm than good.

    This is according to a study by researchers from the University of Auckland and Xiamen University in China, published in the journal Energy. (ref. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S036054422500115X?via%3Dihub )

    The researchers analysed the environmental impacts of human activity and used a robust statistical approach to investigate what drives a nation’s carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions.

    Using data from 26 countries over 15 years, they found a surprising trend: higher EV uptake was linked to increased CO₂ emissions. The reason? In a number of countries, EVs are still being powered by electricity generated through burning fossil fuels like coal or oil.

    Associate Professor Stephen Poletti and Simon Tao, a doctoral candidate at the Business School’s Energy Centre, didn’t observe a significant reduction in CO₂ emissions globally due to EV adoption.

    “On the contrary, EV adoption is positively associated with CO₂ emissions,” says Tao. “This finding appears counterintuitive; it challenges the conventional belief that EVs contribute to decarbonisation.

    “Our analysis highlights that the environmental benefits of EVs are contingent on the composition of a country’s electricity generation mix.”

    Take EVs charged using electricity from coal-fired power plants, says Poletti.

    “In that case, they may indirectly contribute to higher emissions than modern gasoline or diesel vehicles, especially considering the entire lifecycle from production to disposal.”

    The study results suggest only when the global share of renewable electricity generation reaches approximately 48 percent will electric vehicle adoption contribute to reducing CO₂ emissions.

    Renewable energy, mainly wind, solar and hydro, accounted for only a little more than 30 percent of the world’s electricity in 2023, so there’s a way to go, says Poletti.

    “Electric vehicles are often seen as a silver bullet for climate change, but our results show that’s not the case if the electricity powering them isn’t clean.”

    New Zealand, where over 80 percent of electricity generation is renewable, is well-placed to reap the benefits of EVs. Across the ditch, a Clean Energy Council report found that renewables overall accounted for nearly 40 percent of Australia’s total electricity supply in 2023.

    “This research is a reminder that decarbonising transport can’t happen in isolation,” says Poletti.

    “EVs are only as green as the grid they plug into, and government policies should aim to increase the adoption and integration of renewable energy like solar and hydro. This can be achieved by setting ambitious renewable energy targets and providing adequate subsidies such as tax credits to producers and consumers of renewable energy.”

    Poletti says investments in smart grids and transmission networks can boost the efficiency and reliability of renewable energy supply.

    “Policies should support community-based renewable energy projects, which can increase public acceptance of renewable energy installations.”

    Further, the researchers say eliminating subsidies for fossil fuels and implementing carbon pricing mechanisms could also incentivise renewable energy development.

    “Electric vehicle uptake can help countries meet climate-related targets, as long as the energy used to power them is clean,” says Tao.

    In addition to EV uptake, the researchers examined the impacts of economic growth, green technology innovation, renewable energy consumption and population density on emissions.

    They found that economic growth increases emissions, while innovation in environmentally friendly technology and population density, in the form of more compact cities, can help lower them. Renewable energy use had the most significant emissions-reducing effect.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Chinese-Australian voters were key to Labor’s win in 2022. Are some now swinging back to the Liberals?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wanning Sun, Professor of Media and Cultural Studies, University of Technology Sydney

    Chinese-Australian voters were pivotal to Labor’s win in the 2022 election, with the swing against the Liberals in several key marginal seats almost twice that of other seats.

    Many traditionally pro-business Liberal supporters switched sides in protest against the Coalition’s anti-China rhetoric under then-Prime Minister Scott Morrison. This exacerbated the widespread anti-Chinese racism many people felt in the wake of the COVID pandemic.

    A new survey by Sydney Today, a digital Chinese-language media outlet, suggests Labor will most likely retain the support of many of these Chinese-Australian voters.

    Nearly two-thirds (64%) of the 3,000 respondents in the ongoing survey have said they would vote for Labor in the upcoming federal election, while just 27% were backing the Liberals, 2% the Greens and 5% independents.

    If these results mirror the views of the wider Chinese-Australian community, it bodes well for Labor’s prospects, at least in seats with a high concentration of Chinese-Australian voters.

    However, Labor may not succeed in improving on its performance in the last election. One in five voters said they would vote differently this time compared to 2022, with 55% of this group indicating they would switch from Labor to the Coalition and just 18% going the other way.

    When asked why they were changing their vote, 51% said economic management, while 26% said Australia–China relations.

    Survey respondents were predominantly first-generation migrants from China. Nearly four in five were born outside Australia, but have lived here for more than ten years. Most (73%) were Australian citizens and eligible to vote.

    What issues are most important

    The 2021 census counted approximately 1.39 million Australian residents with Chinese heritage, around 536,000 of whom were born in mainland China. As this group continues to grow rapidly, first-generation Chinese-Australians are becoming a significant political force.

    The survey results reveal a complex and shifting picture of party loyalties and preferences among these voters.

    Participants were asked to identify one issue out of a list of 17 that concerns them most in this election. This list included things such as housing, income, taxes, welfare, health, education, immigration and the environment. The economy ranked first with 14% of respondents, followed closely by Australia–China relations (12%).

    The fact that many Chinese-Australians see the Liberals as better economic managers may account for the shift back to the party among some swing voters.

    Yet, most Chinese-Australians seem to agree Labor has handled Australia–China relations much better than the Liberals. This may be why the majority of respondents overall have preferred to stick with Labor.

    About 70% of respondents said they would consider voting for a party that is friendly to Chinese-Australian communities, while 72% said they would consider voting for a party that adopts a moderate approach to China.

    Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, long a hardline critic of the Chinese Communist Party, has attempted to soften his stance in the lead-up to this election. He said last year, for instance, he was “pro-China” and wanted to see the trade between the two countries double.

    In recent days, however, he has attacked Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for his “weak” response to the presence of a Chinese research vessel off the coast of Australia.

    Some Chinese-Australian voters would prefer Australia to adopt a more independent foreign policy that is less reliant on the US for its national security. Research suggests Chinese-Australians tend to be more critical of the bipartisan AUKUS agreement with the United States and United Kingdom than the general public.

    And I’ve observed anecdotal evidence in conversations with Chinese-Australian voters suggesting some are unhappy with both major parties’ positions on China and the US. This is convincing a small number of rusted-on Labor supporters to consider voting for the Greens, minor parties or independents.

    Support for Chinese candidates not a guarantee

    There is a widespread assumption that ethnic voters tend to vote for a candidate who shares their cultural or ethnic background. This seems to be the thinking behind both major parties’ choice of candidates to run in electorates with high concentrations of Chinese voters.

    The Liberals’ preselection of Grange Chung (Reid), Scott Yung (Bennelong), and Howard Ong (Tangney) are cases in point.

    But the survey indicates this may not be a foolproof strategy. When asked whether they would support a candidate on the basis of their Chinese or Asian appearance, respondents were split down the middle. Only slightly more than half (52%) said they would.

    Much can change between now and election day on May 3. Whether the Liberals can retain the small swing they seem to have gained among Chinese-Australians may depend on Dutton’s stance on China. They will no doubt be watching closely to see what he says.

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

    – ref. Chinese-Australian voters were key to Labor’s win in 2022. Are some now swinging back to the Liberals? – https://theconversation.com/chinese-australian-voters-were-key-to-labors-win-in-2022-are-some-now-swinging-back-to-the-liberals-254052

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Former US treasury secretary warns of likely recession, 2M layoffs

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Former U.S. Treasury Secretary Lawrence Summers said in an interview with Bloomberg TV on Tuesday that the United States is likely heading into a recession, with the possibility of 2 million Americans losing their jobs, as a result of the ongoing tariff increases.

    “It’s more likely than not that we’re going to have a recession – and in the context of a recession, we’ll see an extra 2 million people be unemployed,” Summers said on Bloomberg Television’s Wall Street Week.

    “We’ll see losses in household income” of 5,000 dollars per family or more, said Summers, who is Harvard University professor and paid contributor to Bloomberg TV.

    Summers argued that the tariff plans by the Trump administration exceed even those of 1930 that “made the depression great,” noting that it would be wise to be “backing off the policies that have been announced.”

    Despite warnings from Summers and other economists, the White House indicated on Tuesday that the policies will go into effect as previously planned.

    “The president was asked and answered this yesterday. He said he’s not considering an extension or delay. I spoke to him before this briefing. That was not his mindset. He expects that these tariffs are going to go into effect,” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said at a press briefing.

    On April 2, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order regarding the so-called “reciprocal tariffs,” announcing that the United States will impose a 10 percent “baseline tariff” on trade partners and higher tariffs on certain partners, with some facing tariffs exceeding 30 percent, and even 40 percent.

    The 10 percent “baseline tariff” went into effect on April 5, and the higher tariffs on certain trading partners are set to go into effect on Wednesday, April 9.

    Although Trump has repeatedly claimed that the tariff increases will help generate revenue for the U.S. government, reduce the trade deficit, and revitalize American manufacturing, economists and business leaders warn that these tariff measures will drive up prices, harm American consumers and businesses, disrupt global trade, and be detrimental to global economic growth.

    Several U.S. trade partners have already announced countermeasures. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China updates tax refund policy for foreign tourists

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China has updated its tax refund policy for foreign tourists, shifting from a refund-upon-departure model to a refund-upon-purchase model, the State Taxation Administration (STA) said on Tuesday.

    Under the new refund-upon-purchase policy, foreign visitors can instantly claim value-added tax (VAT) rebates at tax-free stores, enabling them to reuse the refunded amount in real time for further shopping. Previously, VAT rebates were only available for withdrawal upon departure.

    The policy change, initially piloted in Shanghai, Beijing, Guangdong, Shenzhen, Sichuan and Zhejiang, has now met all operational requirements for nationwide rollout, according to the STA.

    An official from the STA emphasized their commitment to strengthening policy guidance and streamlining refund procedures.

    Li Xuhong, vice president and professor at the Beijing National Accounting Institute, said that nationwide implementation of this service initiative would elevate China’s tourism service standards and foster a “friendly, efficient and convenient” tourism environment. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: ADB: Developing Asia-Pacific economies to grow 4.9% in 2025

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Developing economies in Asia and the Pacific are forecast to expand by 4.9 percent on average this year and 4.7 percent in 2026, partly due to trade uncertainty and higher U.S. tariffs, a new report by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) said on Wednesday.

    The Asian Development Outlook (ADO) for April 2025 forecast that inflation in the region would moderate further to 2.3 percent in 2025 and 2.2 percent in 2026, as declining global oil and other commodity prices will continue to reduce price pressures in the region.

    ADB Chief Economist Albert Park said in the highlights of the report that forecasts for the region, which were finalized before new U.S. tariffs were announced on April 2, show growth in developing Asia “moderating” this year and next.

    Park said the region will be challenged by rising trade barriers and significant trade uncertainty, but solid domestic demand and electronics exports will support growth.

    Park also warned of looming downside risks, saying that full implementation of the new U.S. tariffs and escalating geopolitical tensions could disrupt prospects.

    “Asia and the Pacific stands at a critical juncture,” ADB President Masato Kanda said in the foreword of the report. “The region now faces a complex economic landscape, with increasing trade tensions, policy shifts, and geopolitical conflict.”

    Kanda said further enhancing regional cooperation is “essential” to address shared vulnerabilities, such as supply chain fragility, energy security, and disasters.

    “Strengthening institutions for cross-border cooperation will provide solid fundamentals for sustained growth and stability,” Kanda said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s economic planner reaffirms private sector support

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), the country’s top economic planner, said Tuesday that it will accelerate the implementation of existing supportive policies and strengthen policy research and reserves to bolster the high-quality development of the private sector.

    The NDRC said in a statement that it held a meeting on Tuesday with five private domestic companies, including ride-hailing firm Didi Chuxing and high-precision components and smart hardware maker Goertek, to solicit their opinions and suggestions on economic development as well as response to additional U.S. tariffs.

    Zheng Shanjie, head of the NDRC, said at the meeting that the commission will refine its regular communication mechanism with private companies, listen to their feedback and assist them in overcoming difficulties.

    Facing risks and challenges from abroad, including the additional tariffs imposed by the United States, China will steadily promote its reform and opening up and insulate the country against external uncertainties through internal certainties, Zheng said.

    Representatives of the five companies expressed their preparedness for the additional U.S. tariffs, noting that they are actively adopting measures to cope with the situation.

    As the country enjoys a stable domestic environment and a huge market, the entrepreneurs said they are confident in overcoming challenges and achieving better growth. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: BSMI Reminds Parents to Put Toy Safety First This Children’s Day

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Children’s Day is a special occasion dedicated to children-a day filled with joy, laughter, and thoughtful gifts from parents and loved ones. To help make this day truly happy and safe, the Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection (BSMI), Ministry of Economic Affairs, would like to extend its warmest wishes to all children in Taiwan and remind parents that when it comes to toys, safety should always come first. The Commodity Inspection Mark on toys is a clear sign that the product meets national safety standards.

    To protect children’s health and safety, all toys intended for children under 14 years old are required by law to undergo inspection and must bear the official Commodity Inspection Mark. Both imported and locally-made toys are subject to this requirement before they can be sold on the market.

    The BSMI encourages parents to keep the following safety tips in mind when buying and using toys:
    1.Choose toys with the Commodity Inspection Mark. (Refer to the attached diagram. Information on certified toys is available on the BSMI website: https://civil.bsmi.gov.tw/bsmi_pqn/)
    2.Check product labels. Ensure that information on age suitability, usage instructions, materials, and safety warnings is clearly marked in Chinese-and take the time to read them carefully.
    3.Buy age-appropriate toys. Toys that are not suitable for a child’s age may lead to accidental injuries.
    4.Check toys thoroughly. Make sure parts are securely attached and that there are no small, loose components that could be swallowed.
    5.Check for sharp edges. Broken or poorly made toys may cause cuts or injuries.
    6.Watch out for long strings or cords. These may pose a risk of strangulation for young children.

    Additionally, the BSMI would like to highlight several recent incidents, both in Taiwan and abroad, related to certain popular toys. Parents are advised to pay special attention to the followings:
    1.Slime toys: Some may contain excessive levels of boron, which can cause skin irritation or other health risks. Limit your child’s playtime with slime and ensure they wash their hands after use.
    2.Expandable toys (water-absorbing toys): These can grow in size after absorbing water and may cause choking if swallowed. They are not suitable for children under three years old.
    3.Floating balloons: Always ask the seller about the type of gas used. If the gas is flammable (such as hydrogen) or if the seller cannot confirm the gas type, do not purchase them.
    4.Magnetic Buckyballs: These small, strong magnets can cause severe internal injuries if swallowed. Keep them out of reach of young children.
    5.Pimple Popping Injection Squishy Toys: If these toys come with a syringe or needle, they do not meet safety standards and should not be purchased for children.
    6.Automatic inflatable grenade toys: These toys can produce loud noises and potentially cause hearing damage. Heat and flying fragments from these toys may also harm children’s skin or eyes.
    7.Plastic toy gravity knives: While they may seem harmless, these toy knives can still cause injury. Teach children to use them responsibly and never point them at others.

    To help parents and children better understand toy safety risks, the BSMI has also produced an educational animation video on the dangers of magnetic Buckyballs, available on our website: https://www.bsmi.gov.tw/wSite/public/Data/6.mp4. We encourage parents and teachers to watch this video with children to raise awareness.

    Let’s work together to make this Children’s Day happy and safe for every child.

    Responsible Division: Inspection Administration Division
    Contact Person: Cheng, Ching-Hong, Deputy Director
    Tel. (O):+886-2343-1763
    Email:ch.cheng@bsmi.gov.tw

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Iran confirms ‘indirect talks’ with US in Oman

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi confirmed on Tuesday that he would engage in “indirect talks” with U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff in Oman on Saturday.

    In a post on social media platform X early Tuesday, Araghchi said Iran and the United States would meet in Oman on Saturday for “indirect high-level talks.”

    He added, “It is as much an opportunity as it is a test. The ball is in America’s court.”

    His remarks came hours after U.S. President Donald Trump, during a meeting with visiting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, claimed that direct talks with Iran were set to take place.

    “We’re having direct talks with Iran,” Trump said. “It’s getting to be very dangerous territory, and hopefully, those talks will be successful.”

    He also disclosed that a “very big meeting” involving “very high-level” officials would be taking place this Saturday.

    The discrepancy over whether the talks are direct or indirect has persisted since early March, when Trump stated he had sent a letter to Iranian leaders — via the United Arab Emirates — proposing direct negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program.

    While Iran later confirmed receiving the letter, it rejected face-to-face talks, though it left the door open for indirect engagement.

    Trump, in an interview with NBC News in late March, threatened to launch “unprecedented military strikes” on Iran if it refused to negotiate over its nuclear program.

    Iran signed a nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, with six major countries — Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia, and the United States — in July 2015, accepting restrictions on its nuclear program in return for sanctions relief.

    However, the United States withdrew from the deal in May 2018 and reinstated sanctions, prompting Iran to scale back some of its nuclear commitments. Efforts to revive the nuclear deal have not achieved substantial progress. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Russia, US to hold next round of talks in Istanbul

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Russian and U.S. officials will hold a new round of talks in Istanbul in the coming days, local media reported Tuesday, citing the Russian Foreign Ministry.

    Russia’s new Ambassador to the United States Alexander Darchiev will lead the Russian delegation, and Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Sonata Coulter will head the U.S. side, the ministry said.

    Substantive work would continue to “remove numerous technical obstacles that hinder the work of diplomats” from both countries, the ministry added.

    Russian and U.S. officials previously met in Istanbul on Feb. 27, where the sides covered bilateral issues. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Premier Li: China to work with EU to promote sound, steady development of relations

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang said in a phone conversation with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Tuesday that China is ready to work with the European side to promote the sound and steady development of China-EU relations.

    Li said that China-EU relations are showing a momentum of steady growth. This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and the EU, and the development of bilateral relations faces important opportunities, he said.

    Li noted that Chinese President Xi Jinping had a telephone conversation with European Council President Antonio Costa at the beginning of this year, which sets the tone and charts the course for deepening China-EU relations.

    China and the EU are each other’s most important trading partners, he said, adding that their economies are highly complementary and interests are closely intertwined.

    Li pledged China’s willingness to work with the EU to maintain sound and smooth high-level exchanges, enhance political mutual trust, expand practical cooperation, and resolve each other’s concerns through dialogue and consultation.

    The two sides should promote the holding of new China-EU high-level dialogues in the strategic, economic and trade, green, and digital fields at an early date, he said.

    Li pointed out that the United States has recently announced indiscriminate tariffs on all its trading partners, including China and the EU, under various pretexts, which is a typical case of unilateralism, protectionism and economic bullying.

    The resolute measures taken by China are not only to safeguard its own sovereignty, security and development interests but also to defend international trade rules and international fairness and justice, Li said, noting that all human beings live in the same global village and no country can thrive in isolation.

    Protectionism leads nowhere, and only openness and cooperation represent the right path for mankind, Li added.

    China and the EU, as strong advocates of economic globalization and trade liberalization, as well as staunch defenders and supporters of the World Trade Organization (WTO), should enhance communication and coordination, expand mutual openness, jointly safeguard free and open trade and investment, and maintain the stable and smooth operation of global industrial and supply chains, so as to inject more stability and certainty into both sides and the world economy, Li said.

    China’s macro policy this year has taken full account of various uncertainties and has sufficient reserve of policy tools to hedge against adverse external impacts, Li said, adding that China is fully confident in maintaining sustained and healthy economic development.

    China will continue to unswervingly expand opening-up, strengthen cooperation and share development opportunities with the EU countries and other countries in the world, he said.

    Noting that the EU always attaches great importance to its relations with China, von der Leyen said it is crucial for EU-China relations to maintain continuity and stability under current circumstances.

    The European side looks forward to holding a new EU-China leaders’ meeting at an appropriate time to review the past, look into the future, and jointly celebrate the 50th anniversary of EU-China diplomatic relations, she said.

    The European side is willing to promote high-level dialogue with China in various fields and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in such fields as economy, trade, green economy and climate change, von der Leyen added.

    She noted that the tariffs imposed by the United States have severely impacted international trade, causing a serious impact on Europe, China and vulnerable countries.

    The EU and China are committed to upholding the fair and free multilateral trading system with the WTO at its core and safeguarding the sound and steady development of global economic and trade relations, which serves the common interests of both sides and the world at large, von der Leyen said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s icebreaker Xuelong returns to Shanghai after fruitful Antarctic survey

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

    China’s research icebreaker Xuelong, or Snow Dragon, berths at a base dock in Shanghai, east China, April 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    SHANGHAI, April 8 — China’s research icebreaker Xuelong, or Snow Dragon, arrived in Shanghai on Tuesday, marking the completion of key missions in the country’s 41st Antarctic expedition, according to a press conference held on Tuesday.

    The expedition involves 516 members from 118 domestic and international institutions and is being carried out by three vessels. The cargo ship Yong Sheng returned to China in January, while the research icebreaker Xuelong 2 remains on mission in the Ross Sea and is expected to return to Shanghai in June, according to Long Wei, an official with the State Oceanic Administration.

    Xuelong completed a 159-day journey covering over 27,000 nautical miles, from its departure from Guangzhou, capital of south China’s Guangdong Province, on Nov. 1, 2024, to its arrival on Tuesday.

    The polar expedition achieved breakthroughs in areas such as technological and methodological innovation, large-scale application of domestically developed equipment, and international collaboration. It is expected to bolster research on rapid changes in Antarctica and contribute to effective responses to global climate change.

    Wang Jinhui, leader of the expedition team, said that the mission primarily focused on establishing a clean energy system, incorporating wind, solar and hydrogen power as well as energy storage facilities at China’s Qinling research station in Antarctica. He added that the team also achieved significant outcomes, including the collection of data on ice sheets and penguin habitats, through investigation, monitoring, and scientific research.

    China has involved multiple countries in its ongoing oceanic survey in the Ross Sea and continues to engage in various international research and collaboration projects, according to Wang.

    Members of China’s 41st Antarctic expedition team disembark from the country’s research icebreaker Xuelong, or Snow Dragon, at a base dock in Shanghai, east China, April 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    China’s research icebreaker Xuelong, or Snow Dragon, berths at a base dock in Shanghai, east China, April 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People greet China’s research icebreaker Xuelong, or Snow Dragon, at a base dock in Shanghai, east China, April 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s top economic planner reaffirms support for private sector

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), the country’s top economic planner, said Tuesday that it will accelerate the implementation of existing supportive policies and strengthen policy research and reserves to bolster the high-quality development of the private sector.

    The NDRC said in a statement that it held a meeting on Tuesday with five private domestic companies, including ride-hailing firm Didi Chuxing and high-precision components and smart hardware maker Goertek, to solicit their opinions and suggestions on economic development as well as response to additional U.S. tariffs.

    Zheng Shanjie, head of the NDRC, said at the meeting that the commission will refine its regular communication mechanism with private companies, listen to their feedback and assist them in overcoming difficulties.

    Facing risks and challenges from abroad, including the additional tariffs imposed by the United States, China will steadily promote its reform and opening up and insulate the country against external uncertainties through internal certainties, Zheng said.

    Representatives of the five companies expressed their preparedness for the additional U.S. tariffs, noting that they are actively adopting measures to cope with the situation.

    As the country enjoys a stable domestic environment and a huge market, the entrepreneurs said they are confident in overcoming challenges and achieving better growth. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Supports Trump’s Executive Order on Coal

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement today regarding President Donald Trump’s signing of an executive order to revitalize the coal industry:
    “Today’s executive order supporting coal-fired power plants will begin to roll back years of Obama-Biden regulatory overreach that targeted those who generate affordable and reliable American energy. For years, the Biden EPA’s war on fossil fuels forced more miners into early retirement, hurt rural communities, raised energy prices, and weakened our national security while China, our top strategic competitor, made massive investments in expanding coal production. The Trump Administration is taking the necessary steps to preserve an industry that is vital to the livelihoods of Kentucky families, and I’ll continue to stand firmly behind the Kentuckians and workers across coal country who keep the lights on.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Amendment to Reciprocal Tariffs and Updated Duties as Applied to Low-Value Imports from the People’s Republic of China

    Source: The White House

    AMENDMENT TO RECIPROCAL TARIFFS AND UPDATED DUTIES AS APPLIED TO LOW-VALUE IMPORTS FROM THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA

    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) (IEEPA), the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.), section 604 of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended (19 U.S.C. 2483), and section 301 of title 3, United States Code, I hereby determine and order:

    Section 1.  Background.  In Executive Order 14257 of April 2, 2025 (Regulating Imports with a Reciprocal Tariff to Rectify Trade Practices that Contribute to Large and Persistent Annual United States Goods Trade Deficits), I declared a national emergency arising from conditions reflected in large and persistent annual U.S. goods trade deficits, and imposed additional ad valorem duties that I deemed necessary and appropriate to deal with that unusual and extraordinary threat, which has its source in whole or substantial part outside the United States, to the national security and economy of the United States.  Section 4(b) of Executive Order 14257 provided that “[s]hould any trading partner retaliate against the United States in response to this action through import duties on U.S. exports or other measures, I may further modify the [Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States] to increase or expand in scope the duties imposed under this order to ensure the efficacy of this action.”  I further declared pursuant to Executive Order 14256 of April 2, 2025 (Further Amendment to Duties Addressing the Synthetic Opioid Supply Chain in the People’s Republic of China as Applied to Low-Value Imports) that duty-free de minimis treatment on articles described in section 2(a) of Executive Order 14195 is no longer available effective at 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on May 2, 2025.

    On April 4, 2025, the State Council Tariff Commission of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) announced that in response to Executive Order 14257, effective at 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on April 10, 2025, a 34 percent tariff would be imposed on all goods imported into the PRC originating from the United States.  Pursuant to section 4(b) of Executive Order 14257, I am ordering modification of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and taking other actions to increase the duties imposed on the PRC in response to this retaliation.  In my judgment, this modification is necessary and appropriate to effectively address the threat to the national security and economy of the United States.

    Sec. 2.  Tariff Increase.  In recognition of the fact that the PRC has announced that it will retaliate against the United States in response to Executive Order 14257, the HTSUS shall be modified as follows.  Effective with respect to goods entered for consumption, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on April 9, 2025:  
    (a)  heading 9903.01.63 of the HTSUS shall be amended by deleting “34%” each place that it appears and by inserting “84%” in lieu thereof; and
    (b)  subdivision (v)(xiii)(10) of U.S. note 2 to subchapter III of chapter 99 of the HTSUS shall be amended by deleting “34%”, and inserting “84%” in lieu thereof.

    Sec. 3.  De Minimis Tariff Increase.  To ensure that the imposition of tariffs pursuant to section 2 of this order is not circumvented and that the purpose of Executive Order 14257 and this action is not undermined, I also deem it necessary and appropriate to:  
    (a)  increase the ad valorem rate of duty set forth in section 2(c)(i) of Executive Order 14256 from 30 percent to 90 percent;
    (b)  increase the per postal item containing goods duty in section 2(c)(ii) of Executive Order 14256 that is in effect on or after 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on May 2, 2025, and before 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on June 1, 2025, from 25 dollars to 75 dollars; and
    (c)  increase the per postal item containing goods duty in section 2(c)(ii) of Executive Order 14256 that is in effect on or after 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on June 1, 2025, from 50 dollars to 150 dollars.

    Sec. 4.  Implementation.  The Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the United States Trade Representative, as applicable, in consultation with the Secretary of State, the Secretary of the Treasury, the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, the Senior Counselor for Trade and Manufacturing, the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs, and the Chair of the International Trade Commission, are directed to take all necessary actions to implement and effectuate this order, consistent with applicable law, including through temporary suspension or amendment of regulations or notices in the Federal Register and adopting rules and regulations, and are authorized to take such actions, and to employ all powers granted to the President by IEEPA, as may be necessary to implement this order.  Each executive department and agency shall take all appropriate measures within its authority to implement this order.

    Sec. 5.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
    (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department, agency, or the head     thereof; or
    (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

    DONALD J. TRUMP

    THE WHITE HOUSE,
        April 8, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray, National Security Members Express Grave Concerns Over Recent Firings at NSA in Letter to Trump

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Letter from senators with jurisdiction over national security over sudden firing of key NSA leaders: “Their removals were conducted in the middle of the night with no consultation with Congress and, according to reports, at the behest of a private citizen who has a record of promoting conspiracy theories.”
    Washington, D.C. — Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, joined Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee Jack Reed (D-RI), and Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense Chris Coons (D-DE), in sending a letter to President Trump regarding the firing of the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Commander of U.S. Cyber Command (CYBERCOM), General Timothy Haugh, as well as the reassignment of the Deputy Director of the NSA, Wendy Noble.
    “We write with alarm at the sudden and inexplicable firing of the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Commander, U.S. Cyber Command, General Timothy Haugh, as well as the reassignment of the Deputy Director of the NSA, Wendy Noble,” the senators wrote. “Not only have both dutifully served this nation for decades under both Democratic and Republican administrations, but their removals were conducted in the middle of the night with no consultation with Congress and, according to reports, at the behest of a private citizen who has a record of promoting conspiracy theories.”
    “These actions severely compromise our ability to keep Americans safe. As you are well aware, our nation currently faces serious cyber threats from foreign adversaries, such as from China’s Salt Typhoon, with near-daily attacks against our critical infrastructure,” the senators continued. “In addition, our nation’s military is engaged in ongoing operations against multiple threats, from the Houthis in Yemen to Russian aggression in Eastern Europe. Given the dangers facing the United States, it is inexplicable that the Administration would remove the senior leaders of NSA/CYBERCOM without cause or warning, and risk disrupting critical ongoing intelligence operations.”
    The senators also highlighted the impact this move would have on the dual-hat arrangement, in which a single officer leads both the NSA and CYBERCOM, and stressed that prematurely severing this agreement could put U.S. national security at risk.
    As members of the key committees tasked with conducting oversight over NSA, the senators requested written justification for why Director Timothy Haugh and Ms. Wendy Noble were removed from their posts, and asked for a Congressional briefing regarding any additional actions the administration plans to take with respect to NSA and CYBERCOM, including but not limited to the separation of the dual-hat.
    Joining Vice Chair Murray, Vice Chairman Warner, and Ranking Members Reed and Coons in this letter are Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Gary Peters (D-MI), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Angus King (I-ME), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Chris Murphy (D-CT).
    The text of the letter is below and a PDF is HERE.
    Dear President Trump,
    We write with alarm at the sudden and inexplicable firing of the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Commander, U.S. Cyber Command, General Timothy Haugh, as well as the reassignment of the Deputy Director of the NSA, Wendy Noble. Not only have both dutifully served this nation for decades under both Democratic and Republican administrations, but their removals were conducted in the middle of the night with no consultation with Congress and, according to reports, at the behest of a private citizen who has a record of promoting conspiracy theories.
    These actions severely compromise our ability to keep Americans safe. As you are well aware, our nation currently faces serious cyber threats from foreign adversaries, such as from China’s Salt Typhoon, with near-daily attacks against our critical infrastructure. In addition, our nation’s military is engaged in ongoing operations against multiple threats, from the Houthis in Yemen to Russian aggression in Eastern Europe. Given the dangers facing the United States, it is inexplicable that the Administration would remove the senior leaders of NSA/CYBERCOM without cause or warning, and risk disrupting critical ongoing intelligence operations.
    Furthermore, we urge you to exercise careful consideration and consultation with Congress on any further actions that may impact NSA’s or CYBERCOM’s abilities to provide the critical intelligence and operational support to policymakers and warfighters. This includes, but is not limited to, any considerations to terminate the dual-hat arrangement. Premature termination of the dual-hat arrangement would severely degrade the speed and effectiveness of NSA’s and CYBERCOM’s abilities to execute their missions and could have dire consequence for our national security. As Congress on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis has repeatedly made clear in the National Defense Authorization Acts for Fiscal Years 2017, 2018, and 2020, clear criteria must be met before any termination can be considered and both the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs must together certify that separation will not “pose risks to the military effectiveness of the United States Cyber Command that are unacceptable to the national security interests of the United States.”
    As Members of the respective committees of oversight, we request that you formally provide in writing a justification for why Director Timothy Haugh and Ms. Wendy Noble were removed from their posts and provide a briefing to Congress on any additional actions you plan to take with respect to NSA and CYBERCOM, including but not limited to the separation of the dual-hat.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: View of container terminal of Tianjin Port

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

    View of container terminal of Tianjin Port

    Updated: April 9, 2025 07:12 Xinhua
    A drone photo taken on April 8, 2025 shows a view of a container terminal of Tianjin Port in north China’s Tianjin. North China’s Tianjin Port handled over 5.71 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of containers in the first quarter of 2025, up 5.6 percent year on year. The port saw its cargo throughput reach 119 million tonnes during the period, up 1.4 percent year on year. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A drone photo taken on April 8, 2025 shows containers at a container terminal of Tianjin Port in north China’s Tianjin. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Trucks carrying containers are pictured at a container terminal of Tianjin Port in north China’s Tianjin, April 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A drone photo taken on April 8, 2025 shows a cargo ship docking at a container terminal of Tianjin Port in north China’s Tianjin. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A drone photo taken on April 8, 2025 shows cargo ships at a container terminal of Tianjin Port in north China’s Tianjin. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Workers check a piece of equipment at a container terminal of Tianjin Port in north China’s Tianjin, April 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine & Colleagues Announce Intent to File Legislation to Challenge Trump’s Senseless Trade Wars

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-OR), U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY), and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) were joined by U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) in announcing their intent to file legislation to repeal the cost-raising, across-the-board tariffs President Donald Trump announced on April 2, which will cost the average American household nearly $4,000 a year and have already led to significant market declines and raised the odds of a recession. Once filed, the legislation will be privileged, meaning it will receive a vote before the full Senate.

    The announcement follows last week’s Senate passage of legislation led by Kaine and Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Mark R. Warner (D-VA) to repeal Trump’s tariffs on Canada.

    “No President has the authority to unilaterally impose such sweeping across-the-board tariffs without congressional approval,” said Kaine. “President Trump’s tariff strategy is raising costs on American families, threatening alliances our national security depends on, and creating opportunity for China and other adversaries to take advantage of global instability. The time is now for Congress to reassert its authority in matters of international trade, and I hope my colleagues on both sides of the aisle will join us.”

    On April 2, Trump announced tariffs on imports from all countries around the world. In response, nations are exploring aggressive countermeasures on goods imported from the U.S.

    Text of the resolution is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Senior Chinese official meets John Thornton

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

    BEIJING, April 8 — Senior Chinese official He Lifeng met with John Thornton, chair emeritus of the U.S. Brookings Institution, in Beijing on Tuesday. The two sides exchanged views on China-U.S. economic and trade relations and macroeconomic situation.

    He, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and director of the Office of the Central Commission for Financial and Economic Affairs, said that China was accelerating the building of a unified national market, releasing consumption potential, and developing new quality productive forces based on local conditions.

    He said China was also further deepening reform in an all-round way, expanding a high level of opening up, and responding to the uncertainty of the external environment with the certainty of high-quality development.

    Noting that U.S.-China relations are very important, Thornton said he would continue to play a role in enhancing people-to-people exchanges and promoting the stability of the relations between the two countries.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner, Reed, Coons Lead National Security Senators in Sounding Alarm Over Recent Firings at NSA

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – Last week, without cause or justification, President Donald Trump fired the top American cybersecurity official responsible for countering foreign cyber threats, just as the U.S. is confronting the most complex, sophisticated, and sustained attacks on U.S. cyber infrastructure our nation has ever experienced. The abrupt firing of General Timothy Haugh, the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Commander of U.S. Cyber Command (CYBERCOM), as well as the reassignment of Wendy Noble, the Deputy Director of the NSA, comes on the heels of the Trump Administration undermining the federal government’s election-related cyberdefenses, the mass-firing of federal cybersecurity personnel across multiple agencies, and an attempt to shift cyberdefense responsibilities onto states and municipalities.
    This week, Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee Jack Reed (D-RI), and Ranking Member on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense Chris Coons (D-DE), led 21 of their committee colleagues in a letter to President Trump regarding the still unexplained ouster of General Haugh and Deputy Director Noble and warning that the Trump Administration’s actions are exposing the U.S. to serious threats from foreign adversaries and sophisticated cybercriminals.
    “These actions severely compromise our ability to keep Americans safe. As you are well aware, our nation currently faces serious cyber threats from foreign adversaries, such as from China’s Salt Typhoon, with near-daily attacks against our critical infrastructure,” the 24 Senators wrote. “In addition, our nation’s military is engaged in ongoing operations against multiple threats, from the Houthis in Yemen to Russian aggression in Eastern Europe. Given the dangers facing the United States, it is inexplicable that the Administration would remove the senior leaders of NSA/CYBERCOM without cause or warning, and risk disrupting critical ongoing intelligence operations.”
    The senators also highlighted the impact this move would have on the dual-hat arrangement, in which a single officer leads both the NSA and CYBERCOM, and stressed that prematurely severing this agreement could put U.S. national security at risk.
    They continued, “Premature termination of the dual-hat arrangement would severely degrade the speed and effectiveness of NSA’s and CYBERCOM’s abilities to execute their missions and could have dire consequence for our national security. As Congress on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis has repeatedly made clear in the National Defense Authorization Acts for Fiscal Years 2017, 2018, and 2020, clear criteria must be met before any termination can be considered and both the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs must together certify that separation will not “pose risks to the military effectiveness of the United States Cyber Command that are unacceptable to the national security interests of the United States.”
    Joining Vice Chairman Warner and Ranking Members Reed and Coons in this letter are U.S. Senators: Patty Murray (D-WA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Gary Peters (D-MI), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Angus King (I-ME), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Chris Murphy (D-CT).
    As members of the key committees tasked with conducting oversight over NSA, the senators requested written justification for why General Timothy Haugh and Deputy Director Wendy Noble were removed from their posts, and asked for a Congressional briefing regarding any additional actions the administration plans to take with respect to NSA and CYBERCOM, including but not limited to the separation of the dual-hat.
    Full text of the letter follows:
    Dear President Trump,
    We write with alarm at the sudden and inexplicable firing of the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Commander, U.S. Cyber Command, General Timothy Haugh, as well as the reassignment of the Deputy Director of the NSA, Wendy Noble. Not only have both dutifully served this nation for decades under both Democratic and Republican administrations, but their removals were conducted in the middle of the night with no consultation with Congress and, according to reports, at the behest of a private citizen who has a record of promoting conspiracy theories.
    These actions severely compromise our ability to keep Americans safe. As you are well aware, our nation currently faces serious cyber threats from foreign adversaries, such as from China’s Salt Typhoon, with near-daily attacks against our critical infrastructure. In addition, our nation’s military is engaged in ongoing operations against multiple threats, from the Houthis in Yemen to Russian aggression in Eastern Europe. Given the dangers facing the United States, it is inexplicable that the Administration would remove the senior leaders of NSA/CYBERCOM without cause or warning, and risk disrupting critical ongoing intelligence operations.
    Furthermore, we urge you to exercise careful consideration and consultation with Congress on any further actions that may impact NSA’s or CYBERCOM’s abilities to provide the critical intelligence and operational support to policymakers and warfighters. This includes, but is not limited to, any considerations to terminate the dual-hat arrangement. Premature termination of the dual-hat arrangement would severely degrade the speed and effectiveness of NSA’s and CYBERCOM’s abilities to execute their missions and could have dire consequence for our national security. As Congress on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis has repeatedly made clear in the National Defense Authorization Acts for Fiscal Years 2017, 2018, and 2020, clear criteria must be met before any termination can be considered and both the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs must together certify that separation will not “pose risks to the military effectiveness of the United States Cyber Command that are unacceptable to the national security interests of the United States.”
    As Members of the respective committees of oversight, we request that you formally provide in writing a justification for why Director Timothy Haugh and Ms. Wendy Noble were removed from their posts and provide a briefing to Congress on any additional actions you plan to take with respect to NSA and CYBERCOM, including but not limited to the separation of the dual-hat.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: At Hearing, Warren Grills Greer on Potential Job Losses From Trump Tariffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    April 08, 2025

    Warren: “What you’re telling us is the fact that hundreds of thousands, even millions of people, could lose their jobs and that prices could go up will not be a factor for you or for Donald Trump for rolling those tariffs back.”

    Video of Exchange (YouTube)

    Washington, D.C. – At a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, demanded answers from Ambassador Jamieson Greer, United States Trade Representative, on President Trump’s reckless tariffs that have the potential to lead the nation into an economic crisis.

    After President Trump’s announcement on his “reciprocal” tariffs on almost every country in the world, the stock market experienced its biggest drop since the first days of the pandemic. Senator Warren sounded the alarm about a likely recession, citing Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, who warned that the tariffs could lead to both “higher prices” and “higher unemployment.”

    Greer is responsible for developing and promoting the U.S. trade agenda and leading trade negotiations on behalf of the U.S. When asked if the Trump administration would reverse course on their tariffs if they cost workers their jobs and raised prices, Ambassador Greer refused to provide a straight answer.

    In fact, Greer insisted that Donald Trump’s on-again, off-again tariffs on China would bring “lower unemployment, lower inflation,” putting him at odds with economists of all political leanings.  

    “What you’re telling us is the fact that hundreds of thousands, even millions of people, could lose their jobs and that prices could go up will not be a factor for you or for Donald Trump for rolling those tariffs back,” said the senator. 

    Today, Senator Warren joined Ranking Member Ron Wyden in introducing legislation to repeal Donald Trump’s global tariffs. The resolution would terminate the emergency that Trump declared to slap tariffs of up to 49% on products Americans buy from other countries.

    “Look, if Republicans are serious about protecting American jobs and fighting inflation, then they can join Democrats right now to pass a resolution to fix Trump’s restless tariffs,” said the senator. “This economy is teetering on the edge of collapse. We have the power right here in the Senate and over in the House of Representatives to take this authority away from Donald Trump.”

    Transcript: Hearing to examine the President’s 2025 trade policy agenda.

    Senate Finance Committee

    April 8, 2025

    Senator Elizabeth Warren: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Donald Trump is single-handedly driving this economy off a cliff. With no evidence to back him up, he’s claimed emergency authorities to slap new tariffs on nearly every product we import, from nearly every country. 

    But Congress has the power to reverse those tariffs—and we should do so immediately. 

    Tariffs can be a tool to help build things in America. But Trump has slapped tariffs on, then off, on then off again with no rhyme or reason—and the uncertainty about the long-term rules makes companies far less likely to invest in manufacturing or jobs here in the United States. 

    If Congress doesn’t stand up to Trump, economists predict a recession before the end of the year, and Fed Chair Jerome Powell says we’re in a real danger of “both higher unemployment and higher inflation.” Translation: Trump’s tariffs will push millions of workers out of jobs and push prices up at the same time.

    So, Ambassador Greer, we’ve heard a lot of conflicting statements about whether these tariffs are here to stay, how many more rounds of on/off we’re going to do. So, let me ask the question from a different perspective.

    Ambassador Greer, we lost 700,000 jobs each month in the last recession. If 700,000 Americans lose their jobs, will the Trump administration suspend these tariffs?

    Ambassador Jamieson Greer: Senator, I think the economists who are making these projections, who often are in favor of fully unfettered free trade, are the same ones, you said in the first Trump term, that put tariffs— I just don’t think it’s going to happen, Senator.

    Senator Warren: Mr. Greer, let me just stop you there. I’m not asking about projections. I’m asking, if the numbers show that 700,000 people have lost their jobs because of these new tariffs that Trump has slapped on, will the administration reverse course and lift those tariffs? 

    Ambassador Greer: Senator, that’s not going to happen. We’ve lost 5 million manufacturing jobs over the years, which is the number I’m most worried about, and we have to get those jobs back. 

    Senator Warren: So, I take that as a no. Let me try another one. Moody says that if the Trump tariffs remain in place, we will definitely plunge into a recession, which will ultimately cost three and a half million Americans their jobs. 

    So, Ambassador Greer, if Trump’s tariffs push three and a half million people out of work, will the Trump administration reverse course and lift those tariffs? 

    Ambassador Greer: Senator, the Wall Street analysts are wrong. They never want to have any kind of change to the status quo–

    Senator Warren: I’m not asking if they’re right or wrong–

    Ambassador Greer: But that’s who you’re quoting to me, Senator.

    Senator Warren: I’m giving you a number. If the number is three and a half million, if it never comes to pass, you don’t have to worry about your answer, but if three and a half million people lose their jobs because of these tariffs, is the Trump administration prepared to lift them? 

    Ambassador Greer: Right now, this minute, we’re working on negotiations with countries who believe they can achieve reciprocity with us and get their trade deficit down, and that’s the emergency we’re focused on. There’s not going to be a situation where, years from now, we’ve lost millions of jobs.

    Senator Warren: Let me try one more time: if Trump tariffs push workers out of their jobs and raise prices as Fed Chair Powell has predicted, will you reverse course then?

    Ambassador Greer: I think also with respect to Chairman Powell, who I don’t know personally, but I know the President makes decisions on trade, and he rarely takes advice from Chairman Powell on this. We found in Trump One that you could put tariffs on China and you could make it work and have lower income, sorry, lower unemployment, lower inflation, and increase real median household income over time as we reshore and that’s what we have to do, Senator. 

    Senator Warren: What I’m hearing you say is that no one can hear a rhyme or reason to why the tariffs are off again, on again, off again, on again. But what you’re telling us is the fact that hundreds of thousands, even millions of people, could lose their jobs and that prices could go up will not be a factor for you or for Donald Trump for rolling those tariffs back. Look, if Republicans are serious about protecting American jobs and fighting inflation, then they can join Democrats right now to pass a resolution to fix Trump’s restless tariffs. This economy is teetering on the edge of collapse. We have the power right here in the Senate and over in the House of Representatives to take this authority away from Donald Trump. We can get this voted on. Senator Wyden and I have already, are about to, introduce the bill to do that, and if Republicans are serious about not playing the red light green light with tariffs but instead about protecting our economy, our families, our jobs, and keeping prices low, then Republicans should join us on that. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Oversight and Intelligence Subcommittee Chairman Mills Delivers Opening Remarks at Hearing on Biden Administration’s Far-Left Foreign Policy

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-321-9747

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs Oversight and Intelligence Subcommittee Chairman Cory Mills delivered opening remarks at a full committee hearing titled, “Deficient, Enfeebled, and Ineffective: The Consequences of the Biden Administration’s Far-Left Priorities on U.S. Foreign Policy.”

    Watch Here

    -Remarks- 

    Good afternoon and welcome to the first hearing of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Intelligence in the 119th Congress. 

    As we start the new Congress, I am looking forward to working with my colleagues to deliver real results for the American people by advancing President Trump’s America first foreign policy agenda.

    Over the next few months, through our State Department reauthorization deliberations, this Subcommittee will work to identify areas of the Secretary’s Office, or the “S Bureau,” that must be reformed and reprogrammed to reorient the United States as a leader on the world stage while ensuring that taxpayer dollars are effectively used to bolster U.S. national security efforts. 

    For far too long, the State Department prioritized radical liberal political ideologies and woke policies over advancing diplomatic objectives that serve American interests and protect the American people from our adversaries.

    While the Biden administration was trying to figure out what pronouns to use, our adversaries grew stronger and more emboldened. 

    China aggressively enforced unlawful territorial claims in the South China Sea and has undermined the United States and our allies at every turn. Russia invaded Ukraine. North Korea ramped up its military provocations. Iran advanced its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile program, empowering its proxies to cause chaos throughout the Middle East. Israel was attacked and global shipping routes in the Red Sea were blocked. 

    Over the last four years, among others, the American people watched these foreign policy failures unfold and voted for real change and action on November 4th. The American people gave President Trump and the Republican-led Congress a mandate to reverse the damage and restore common sense to the federal government.

    Today, this Subcommittee will take its first step to deliver on this mandate by examining the State Department’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion. 

    The Office of Diversity and Inclusion detrimentally influenced operations across the Department by: making DEI a “core precept” for promotion consideration within the ranks of the Foreign Service; granting passport applicants the ability to select “X” as a gender; and using taxpayer dollars to fund numerous woke projects, including “commemorating black consciousness month with an event in which employees learned about the inclusion of Afro-Brazilian culture through music and LGBTQI+ culture through Vogue dance” in Brazil. That was a mouthful.

    These policies corrupted the core mission of the State Department and we must restore unity and fundamental American principles to the Department, eliminate wasteful spending, and ensure that President Trump’s Executive Orders are fully implemented, not subverted by rebranding DEI-driven programs. It is our duty to ensure that America becomes safer, stronger, and more prosperous.

    I want to thank our witnesses for appearing before the Subcommittee today. 

    I look forward to a productive discussion on how we can enhance America’s security through common sense policies and responsible leadership.  

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Matthews Asia Co-Founder Mark Headley Returns as Executive Chairman

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Matthews Asia today announced that co-founder and former Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mark Headley, has been appointed Executive Chairman and will assume the CEO responsibilities. Mark, who will continue to serve on the Matthews Asia Board of Directors and as the newly appointed Chairman and interim CEO, succeeds Cooper Abbott, who left the firm on April 7, 2025.

    Mark Headley brings his extensive investment and operational leadership back to the firm he co-founded with Paul Matthews in 1995. During his long tenure at the firm, he held both CEO and CIO roles as well as being a Portfolio Manager on a range of mutual funds. Under Mark’s leadership, he helped guide the firm through a significant period of growth as well as managing the firm during challenging periods in financial markets that included the Global Financial Crisis in 2007.

    Over his two decades at Matthews, and in partnership with Paul Matthews, Mark helped lead the evolution and growth of the firm to become a leading and highly regarded Emerging Market investment manager for Asia-focused investments. With a strong commitment to active management and fundamental research, he helped the firm develop its investment approach and build a deep bench of investment talent. The firm’s focus on investments in Asia and Emerging Markets created a unique value proposition which remains in place today along with a deeply embedded client-centric culture.

    Paul Matthews, founder, said, “I am extremely pleased that Mark has been appointed Executive Chairman of the firm we founded together over 30 years ago. During Mark’s time at Matthews, the success of this firm had been driven by his deep understanding of Asia’s markets and an unwavering focus on exceeding our clients’ expectations. I am confident that Mark is the right person to lead the company. As a former CEO and Portfolio Manager of Matthews, he has the proven strategic and operational leadership experience that will help the firm navigate through these challenging markets and set the firm onto a path towards its next period of growth and innovation.”

    Mark Headley, Executive Chairman, said, “I am delighted to be rejoining Matthews. I am particularly excited to work closely with Sean Taylor, CIO, and a talented group of experienced professionals at the firm. I am confident that we can deliver long-term growth opportunities for our clients, employees and shareholders.”

    About Matthews Asia

    Matthews is an independent, privately owned investment manager founded in 1991 on a belief that Global Emerging Markets offer exceptional long-term growth potential. As a trusted and experienced investor, Matthews takes a long-term, active, fundamental investment approach to construct highly differentiated portfolios that focus on Emerging Markets, Asia and China. The firm manages assets on behalf of institutions, advisors and individual investors globally in vehicles that include SMAs, mutual funds and active ETFs. For more information about Matthews, please visit www.matthewsasia.com.

    Media Contact in the U.S.:
    Dukas Linden PR
    Sarah Lazarus/Christian Healey
    +1 617-335-7823/+ 1 781-439-2500
    sarah@dlpr.com/christian@dlpr.com

    Media Contact in Europe/Asia:
    Mark Lidstone
    Matthews Asia
    mark.lidstone@matthewsasia.com

    Disclosure
    This announcement is for informational purposes only and does not, in any way, constitute investment advice or an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security or product mentioned herein. Investing in international and emerging markets may involve additional risks, such as social and political instability, market illiquidity, exchange-rate fluctuations, a high level of volatility and limited regulation.
            
    Matthews Asia is the brand for Matthews International Capital Management, LLC and its direct and indirect subsidiaries.

    The MIL Network –