NewzIntel.com

Category: China

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mississauga — CBSA and RCMP joint investigation leads to criminal charges and the seizure of synthetic opioids more potent than fentanyl

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) are committed to intercepting and investigating smuggling attempts at our border and disrupting organized crime.

    The CBSA and RCMP announced today that an arrest has been made in Mississauga, Ontario for possession and trafficking of narcotics, including Nitazenes. Nitazenes are a class of synthetic opioid which can be up to 20 times more potent than Fentanyl. They are used to “cut” street drugs in Canada, and their high potency can increase the risk of overdose, particularly when mixed with other substances.

    CBSA border services officers at the international mail and cargo processing facilities in Mississauga, ON, and Vancouver, BC, seized multiple shipments of synthetic opioids arriving from China and destined to an address in Mississauga. Officers also intercepted additional shipments intended for international export. Using various investigative techniques, the CBSA’s Greater Toronto Area Region’s Intelligence section provided the RCMP with the evidence required to obtain a search and arrest warrant.

    On January 3, 2025, the RCMP’s Transnational Serious & Organized Crime seized over 5 kg of narcotics, drug paraphernalia, more than $120,000 CAD in cash and other proceeds of crime—including luxury watches and precious metals—from the accused’s residence in Mississauga.

    As a result, the RCMP arrested Matthew Phan (36 years-old) of Mississauga, and charged him with:

    • Trafficking a Schedule I controlled substance to wit: Etonitazene, its salts, derivatives, isomers and analogues and salts of derivatives, isomers and analogues contrary to Section5(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
    • Trafficking a Schedule 4 controlled substance to wit: Fencamfamine, its salts, derivatives, isomers and analogues and salts of derivatives, isomers and analogues contrary to Section5(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
    • Possession of a Schedule I controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking to wit: Etonitazene, its salts, derivatives, isomers and analogues and salts of derivatives, isomers and analogues contrary to Section 5(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
    • Possession of a Schedule I controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking to wit: MDMA, contrary to Section 5(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
    • Possession of a Schedule I controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking to wit: methamphetamine, contrary to Section 5(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
    • Possession of a Schedule 4 controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking to wit: Fencamfamine, its salts, derivatives, isomers and analogues and salts of derivatives, isomers and analogues contrary to Section 5(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
    • Unlawful attempt to export a Schedule 1 controlled substance to wit: Etonitazene, its salts, derivatives, isomers and analogues and salts of derivatives, isomers and analogues contrary to Section 6(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
    • Unlawful attempt to export a Schedule 4 controlled substance to wit: Fencamfamine, its salts, derivatives, isomers and analogues and salts of derivatives, isomers and analogues contrary to Section 6(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
    • Unlawful possession property obtained by crime, contrary to Section 354(1) of the Criminal Code.

    Phan has not received bail and remains in custody.

    Quotes

    “This opioid seizure is yet another example of the effective partnership between the CBSA and the RCMP in stopping cross-border drug trafficking. Nitazenes pose a significant threat to public health, and these joint investigations and resulting enforcement actions keep our communities safe, both in Canada and abroad.”
    – The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of Public Safety

    “Nitazenes are a lethal substance that pose a significant risk to the safety of Canadians, and the CBSA is committed to securing Canada’s border from drug threats like this one. In collaboration with the RCMP, our officers and investigators work diligently to keep these synthetic opioids off our streets. The CBSA executed over 3,000 narcotic seizures in the Greater Toronto Area in 2024, keeping over 10,000 kg of drugs out of our communities.” – Lisa Janes, Regional Director General, Greater Toronto Area Region, Canada Border Services Agency

    “This collaboration between RCMP Federal Police and the CBSA has resulted in a rapid response to protect the safety of our communities. We are very concerned that synthetic opioids are making their way onto our streets. This extremely toxic substance severely amplifies the risk of accidental overdose for all drug users. The RCMP is committed to battling transnational organized crime at all levels in Ontario, Canada and abroad.”
    – Inspector Nicole Noonan, Officer in charge of Federal Policing – Integrated Response & Organized Crime, Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Quick facts

    • Canada is investing $1.3 billion to bolster security at the border and strengthen the immigration system, all while keeping Canadians safe. Information available on the Border Plan is available here: The Government of Canada’s Border Plan: significant investments to strengthen border security and our immigration system – Canada.ca
    • As part of Canada’s Border Plan, the CBSA has launched Operation Blizzard, a targeted, cross-country initiative aimed at intercepting illegal contraband arriving and leaving Canada, with a focus on fentanyl and other synthetic narcotics.
    • From December 9, 2024 to January 18, 2025, the Canadian Integrated Response to Organized Crime (CIROC) Committee composed of Federal, Provincial and Municipal law enforcement agencies, conducted a national sprint aimed at disrupting illegal fentanyl production and distribution in Canada.
    • The RCMP and the CBSA work closely in an investigative capacity, along with other domestic and international law enforcement partners, to combat the impact that cross border criminal activity is having on our communities.
    • The CBSA screens goods, including international mail and courier items, coming into Canada and examines more closely those that may pose a threat to the safety of Canadians.
    • The RCMP works with the CBSA to protect Canada from inbound and outbound criminal threats through criminal investigations and prosecutions related to narcotic smuggling.
    • Organized crime affects the daily lives of Canadians in many ways that you may not be aware of. It can affect the taxes you pay (tax revenue losses from contraband tobacco and alcohol); your car insurance premiums (higher auto insurance due to car thefts by organized crime rings); your banking fees (banks recovering fraud costs); even your safety and health (drug-related violence, faulty counterfeit goods and currency). In terms of economic-related crimes (e.g. credit and debit card fraud), it is estimated that organized crime costs Canadians $5 billion every year.
    • For the latest CBSA enforcement statistics, visit Canada Border Services Agency seizures.
    • If you have any information related to smuggling, drug importation, trafficking, or possession, or wish to report other criminality, you can contact:
      • The RCMP Toronto West Detachment at 1-905-876-9500
      • Ontario RCMP at 1-800-387-0020
      • Anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), at any time.
    • To report suspicious cross border activities, you can contact the CBSA by using the confidential Border Watch Line online or toll free at 1888 502 9060

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Blasts Trump Admin for Lawlessly Cancelling Lifesaving USAID, State Programs Important to America’s National Interests

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Murray: “The Trump administration has chosen to spit in the face of the law and Congress—expressing total disdain for a court order mandating that they release the foreign aid funding they had illegally withheld.”
    Murray: “If Ebola, Marburg, or any other infectious disease makes it to our shores, it will be thanks to Elon and Trump—two billionaires without a clue who are positively smug about their own ignorance.”
    ***VIDEO HERE***
    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, took to the Senate floor to speak out about the Trump administration’s decision on Wednesday to illegally terminate 90% of United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and 60% of State Department programs.
    Senator Murray has been sounding the alarms about the Trump administration flagrantly violating the law to block enacted funding across government, dismantle long-established agencies like USAID, and recklessly fire federal workers en masse. Earlier this week, she blasted the Trump for permanently eliminating 1,600 USAID employees positions in violation of the law.
    Senator Murray’s remarks, as delivered, are below:
    “M. President, I come to the floor today to make a simple point: the law cannot be in the eye of the beholder.
    “The law is the law—but yet again, we are seeing the Trump administration break the law. 
    “Many of us have been closely following the Trump administration’s illegal freeze of congressionally appropriated funding, including of foreign aid—not just from the State Department, but also from USAID, the African Development Foundation, Inter-American Foundation, and other independent agencies.
    “Each of these agencies’ existence as an independent entity has long been enshrined in statute, and reaffirmed by bipartisan majorities in both chambers year-after-year in annual appropriations.
    “Our appropriations law also explicitly requires the administration to notify and consult with Congress before undertaking any efforts to reorganize, realign, or downsize foreign affairs agencies—as the sweeping reductions in force issued last week and many other brazen actions we’ve seen clearly seek to do.
    “The Administration’s actions—including firing the USAID Inspector General and the State IG—will make waste and fraud more likely and will prevent even foreign assistance programs allegedly supported by the administration from being effectively implemented and will also effectively block hundreds of millions of dollars for other programs enacted into law by bipartisan majorities.
    “Needless to say, the Trump administration has not consulted or notified Congress about these changes—that is in violation of the law.
    “But this week they took a further step. The Trump administration has chosen to spit in the face of the law and Congress—expressing total disdain for a court order mandating that they release the foreign aid funding they had illegally withheld.
    “When finally told they must comply, Secretary Rubio personally approved the termination of 90% of USAID programs, and 60% of State Department programs—virtually overnight.
    “They terminated more than $58 billion in multi-year programs, and have told us they have no intention of utilizing those funds.
    “The termination of those awards is absolutely not what Congress intended. Congress appropriated the funding, on a bipartisan basis, with the express intent to see those dollars spent.
    “This is not trivial stuff. We are talking about resources that often mean the difference between life and death. Resources that are imperative, not just because they are lifesaving but because they are an investment in our own national security—and U.S. businesses.
    “Let’s take Ebola for example: USAID helps other countries around the world respond to and contain Ebola outbreaks. That’s pretty darn important because there is no known cure for Ebola.
    “Thanks to the good work of USAID—along with our international partners, often supported by USAID awards—we have never had an Ebola outbreak here at home.
    “Yesterday, at President Trump’s cabinet meeting, Elon Musk even admitted that, ‘yes we want to fight Ebola’—of course, then he said, they accidentally cut USAID’s Ebola prevention efforts, but that it had been ‘restored’ with no ‘interruption.’
    “Yet we know for a fact that is a lie. U.S.-based companies implementing these programs received termination notices yesterday.
    “Any basic accounting of USAID’s capacity to stop outbreaks abroad shows quite plainly that any disease prevention efforts supported by the U.S. at this point are merely symbolic.
    “You cannot break the foundation of public health systems overseas and expect that it won’t have a damaging impact here at home. This makes America less safe.
    “If Ebola, Marburg, or any other infectious disease makes it to our shores, it will be thanks to Elon and Trump—two billionaires without a clue who are positively smug about their own ignorance. 
    “But it’s not just our infectious disease response that has now been gutted. Everything from resources to help prevent kids from getting malaria to aid for refugees in war torn places like Syria where it is directly in our national security interest to foster stability.
    “And it’s not just resources for far-away places—this will hit home in blue and red states. U.S. universities in my home state, in Indiana, in Florida, in Texas, and other states have had their partnerships terminated.
    “American students from across our country that are now participating in exchange programs overseas are impacted by this.
    “To put it into perspective for my colleagues: 5,800 of 6,300 USAID grants and contracts are being terminated—that’s nine out of ten—and that’s not to mention 4,100 of 6,800 State Department grants and contracts.
    “And the only detail we have is from NGOs, faith-based organizations, and U.S. contractors sending these termination notices to our committee.
    “We do not have one shred of detail from the State Department. Not one shred. The scale is staggering—and it shows you that this administration’s scheme is to bulldoze right through restraining orders and court orders so that by the time the law catches up to them, the damage will have been done.
    “Compliance is easy at that point. What’s left to fix once you’ve burned everything to the ground?
    “This administration knows full well they are breaking the law. They are showing us all in plain view that their goal is to do irreparable damage—as much as possible, as fast as possible.
    “Well, I am sounding the alarm because this illegal power grab is in direct violation of congressional intent and appropriations law.
    “The Supreme Court should act with haste to bring this administration to account and ensure that money Congress appropriated gets to where it was intended.
    “Whether it’s President Trump, or Elon Musk, or the Secretary of State calling the shots, Congress has no visibility into DOGE’s actions, frustrating our ability to write funding bills when government funding runs out in weeks. 
    “By ignoring the law and congressional intent, the administration has created chaos, they have eroded trust in the United States, and made way for Russia and China to take advantage of this leadership vacuum.
    “No one should fall for this thin veneer about ‘efficiency’ while the Administration racks up legal fees, overdue payments to contractors, pays people not to work, and forces a global recall of staff.
    “We have a process to avoid this kind of chaos. The President submits his or her budget request to Congress. Congress holds hearings publicly, and writes and passes bills that become law. 
    “We have explicit notification and consultation requirements for foreign assistance funding for a reason.
    “M. President—do I need to march down to the National Archives? Do I need to make sure we still have a Constitution?
    “Do I need to check whether the laws we passed are still there? Or did they start running them through a shredder? Because as blatant and persistent as it has been, no one—no one—should expect this kind of lawlessness to fade away.
    “I cast my votes and speak on this floor as a voice for the people of the state I represent, Washington state. I was not elected to let the President or some unaccountable billionaire decide how their tax dollars get spent.
    “Every Senator here should speak loudly with one unified voice: Congress holds the power of the purse, and no President can unilaterally abolish an entire agency or ignore our appropriations laws.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: North Carolina Man Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Illegally Export Sensitive Technology to China

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: North Carolina Man Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Illegally Export Sensitive Technology to China

    David C. Bohmerwald, 63, the owner of a Raleigh-based electronics resale business called Components Cooper Inc., pleaded guilty to attempting to export accelerometer technology with military applications to China without a license, in violation of the Export Control Reform Act (ECRA), and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison when sentenced.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Raleigh Man Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Illegally Export Sensitive Technology to China

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RALEIGH, N.C. – David C. Bohmerwald, the owner of a Raleigh-based electronics resale business called Components Cooper, Inc., pled guilty to attempting to export accelerometer technology with military applications to China without a license, in violation of the Export Control Reform Act (“ECRA”), and faces up to 20 years in prison when sentenced.  The case is the result of the district’s Disruptive Technology Strike Force (DTSF) cell.  

    “North Carolina is home to cutting-edge technologies that fuel our economy, improve our lives, and are vital to national security.  But our status as a major tech hub also makes us a target, as America’s foreign adversaries seek to acquire sensitive tech to advance their military might and interests around the world,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel Bubar, “We’ve launched a multi-agency Disruptive Technology Strike Force cell to shut down international schemes that smuggle sensitive technology and IP to America’s adversaries. This case is just one example, exposing a scheme to evade U.S. export laws by shipping nearly $20,000 worth of accelerometers with missile applications from North Carolina to the People’s Republic of China.”

    “Consistent application and administration of our export controls is crucial for national security and economic stability,” said Jeffrey Levine, Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) Office of Export Enforcement Special Agent in Charge. “The Disruptive Technology Strike Force is another example of how those agencies with enforcement responsibilities work together to help prevent the proliferation of sensitive technologies and materials that could be used for military or terrorist purposes, ensuring that critical goods do not fall into the wrong hands.”

    “The disruption of this scheme to illegally export sensitive technology means that accelerometers and other items will not be used by unauthorized individuals or for adversarial purposes,” said Special Agent in Charge Cardell T. Morant, who supervises Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Charlotte that covers North and South Carolina. “HSI is a proud member of the Disruptive Technology Strike Force and cases like this demonstrate HSI’s commitment to keeping military-grade equipment out of the hands of our adversaries. HSI will aggressively investigate, disrupt, and hold accountable criminals that supply sensitive technology to unauthorized users.”

    According to court documents, and information presented in court, Bohmerwald, age 63, purchased 100 accelerometers from a U.S.-based electronics company, and then attempted to export the devices to a company in China. These accelerometers have a wide array of applications ranging from research and development of products to defense uses. When used for military applications, accelerometers are crucial to structural testing, monitoring, flight control, and navigation systems. The technology can help missiles fly more accurately and measure the precise effect munitions have on structures. A license is required to export the accelerometers to China.

    The U.S. based electronics company notified law enforcement due to Bohmerwald’s suspicious and unusual purchase request. Among other things, when Bohmerwald purchased the accelerometers, he claimed that they were for an end user in Missouri. In fact, when federal agents contacted the Missouri company, they denied having an order pending with Bohmerwald and his business, Components Cooper.

    After Bohmerwald received the accelerometers, he dropped two parcels at a local FedEx shipping store. One of the packages was addressed to a business in China. An agent with the Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, detained the package and found it contained 100 accelerometers. The agent confirmed that there were no relevant licenses on file to support the export of the items. In addition, Bohmerwald falsely listed the value of the package at $100, when the true value was nearly $20,000. When interviewed by agents, Bohmerwald admitted to acquiring the technology on behalf of a Chinese-based company, knowing that the technology was export-controlled, and knowing export of the items required a license.

    This case was coordinated through the Disruptive Technology Strike Force, an interagency law enforcement strike force co-led by the Departments of Justice and Commerce designed to target illicit actors, protect supply chains, and prevent critical technology from being acquired by authoritarian regimes and hostile nation-states. The Strike Force leverages tools and authorities across the U.S. government to enhance the criminal and administrative enforcement of export control laws.

    Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina and Sue Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle accepted the plea. BIS, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations are investigating the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Logan Liles and Trial Attorney Brendan Geary of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:24-CR-00302-BO.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: North Carolina Man Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Illegally Export Sensitive Technology to China

    Source: United States Attorneys General 10

    David C. Bohmerwald, 63, the owner of a Raleigh-based electronics resale business called Components Cooper Inc., pleaded guilty to attempting to export accelerometer technology with military applications to China without a license, in violation of the Export Control Reform Act (ECRA), and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison when sentenced.

    According to court documents and information presented in court, Bohmerwald purchased 100 accelerometers from a U.S.-based electronics company and then attempted to export the devices to a company in China. These accelerometers have a wide array of applications ranging from research and development of products to defense uses. When used for military applications, accelerometers are crucial to structural testing, monitoring, flight control, and navigation systems. The technology can help missiles fly better and measure the precise effect munitions have on structures. A license is required to export the accelerometers to China.

    The U.S.-based electronics company notified law enforcement due to Bohmerwald’s suspicious and unusual purchase request. Among other things, when Bohmerwald purchased the accelerometers, he claimed that they were for an end user in Missouri. In fact, when federal agents contacted the Missouri company, they denied having an order pending with Bohmerwald and his business, Components Cooper.

    After Bohmerwald received the accelerometers, he dropped two parcels at a local FedEx shipping store. One of the packages was addressed to a business in China. An agent with the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), detained the package and found it contained 100 accelerometers. The agent confirmed that there were no relevant licenses on file to support the export of the items. In addition, Bohmerwald falsely listed the value of the package at $100, when the true value was nearly $20,000. When interviewed by agents, Bohmerwald admitted to acquiring the technology on behalf of a Chinese-based company, knowing that the technology was export-controlled, and knowing export of the items required a license.

    Sue Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, John Sonderman, performing the non-exclusive duties of the Assistant Secretary for Export Enforcement, Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), and U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement.

    The BIS, FBI, and Homeland Security Investigations are investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Logan Liles for the Eastern District of North Carolina and Trial Attorney Brendan Geary of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.

    This case was coordinated through the Disruptive Technology Strike Force, an interagency law enforcement strike force co-led by the Departments of Justice and Commerce designed to target illicit actors, protect supply chains, and prevent critical technology from being acquired by authoritarian regimes and hostile nation-states. Under the leadership of the Assistant Attorney General for National Security and the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Export Enforcement, the Strike Force leverages tools and authorities across the U.S. government to enhance the criminal and administrative enforcement of export control laws.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Alternative Ballistics Corporation Appoints Jags Gill as Chief Revenue Officer, International

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Las Vegas, Nevada, Feb. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Alternative Ballistics Corporation is proud to announce the appointment of Jags Gill as Chief Revenue Officer, International. With over 12 years of successful experience in global sales, leadership, and channel development, Jags is set to drive the company’s international growth strategy, expanding its presence and revenue across global markets.

    In his new role, Jags will leverage his extensive experience in building and leading international teams, while fostering long-term relationships with key stakeholders within law enforcement, military, and government organizations. His proven track record of navigating complex cultural, political, and economic factors in diverse global markets makes him ideally suited to lead Alternative Ballistics’ expansion and strengthen its position as a leader in innovative security solutions.

    Jags is deeply passionate about using technology to support those who serve and protect us. His commitment to placing transformative tools into the hands of law enforcement professionals and military personnel aligns perfectly with the mission of Alternative Ballistics Corporation: to enhance public safety and empower professionals with life-saving technologies. With his expertise and vision, Jags is poised to contribute significantly to the company’s growth and success on the global stage.

    Jags Gill shared his excitement about the new opportunity:

    “I am honored to join Alternative Ballistics Corporation at such an exciting time for the company. The opportunity to work with a team that is committed to providing innovative solutions to those who make a difference every day is truly inspiring. I look forward to building on the company’s strong foundation and leading its international revenue strategy, bringing our transformative technologies to more professionals and organizations around the world.”

    Steve Luna, CEO of Alternative Ballistics Corporation, commented on the appointment:

    “We are thrilled to welcome Jags Gill to Alternative Ballistics as our new Chief Revenue Officer, International. His exceptional experience in global sales and leadership, combined with his deep understanding of international markets and passion for innovative technology, will be a tremendous asset to our team. Jags shares our commitment to improving public safety, and we are confident that his expertise will help us expand our reach and drive continued growth.”

    Alternative Ballistics Corporation continues to lead the way in providing cutting-edge security solutions, with a mission to enhance the safety of professionals in law enforcement, military, and security sectors. With Jags Gill’s leadership, the company is poised for a new era of growth and innovation on the global stage.

    About Alternative Ballistics Corp.

    Alternative Ballistics Corporation (“ABC”) produces an innovative less-lethal product known as The Alternative® which features patented bullet capture technology. The product is used by law enforcement as a de-escalation tool in critical incidents when encountering a non-compliant subject in crisis, in possession of a weapon other than a firearm, who presents a threat to themselves, to officers, or to bystanders. A lightweight, easy-to-carry docking unit, The Alternative® efficiently attaches to a service weapon to convert a fired bullet into a kinetic impact round that, when deployed from a safe distance, travels downrange with non-penetrating energy, and temporarily incapacitates an individual with low risk of critical injury or death. Once deployed, the service weapon reverts to standard use. The Alternative® may also be available in the future in the commercial market as a self-defense tool for the purpose of protecting life and property. It is the only less-lethal product in either the law enforcement or commercial market that works with a service weapon or semi-automatic handgun for seamless protective cover and doesn’t require transition to a separate device, allowing the user to keep eyes and weapon on the threat at all times.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This document contains forward-looking statements. In addition, from time to time, we or our representatives may make forward-looking statements orally or in writing. We base these forward-looking statements on our expectations and projections about future events, which we derive from the information currently available to us. In evaluating these forward-looking statements, you should consider various factors, including: our ability to advance the direction of the Company; our ability to keep pace with new technology and changing market needs; and the competitive environment of our business. These and other factors may cause our actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement.

    Company Contact:
    www.alternativeballistics.com

    For Investor Inquiries, please contact:
    Hanover International, Inc.
    Kathy Cusumano, President
    ka@hanoverintlinc.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: KE Holdings Inc. Upgraded to ‘A’ in MSCI ESG Rating

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BEIJING, Feb. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — KE Holdings Inc. (“Beike” or the “Company”) (NYSE: BEKE and HKEX: 2423), a leading integrated online and offline platform for housing transactions and services, is pleased to announce today a significant upgrade in its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) rating by Morgan Stanley Capital International (“MSCI”) from “BBB” to “A.” This achievement marks the second consecutive year of improvement for Beike, reflecting its steadfast commitment to excellence in ESG practices within the industry.

    In MSCI’s latest evaluation, Beike earned an impressive overall score of 7.2 in the ESG social category, outperforming the global industry average of 4.3. This accomplishment is attributed to the Company’s continuous efforts in human capital development through tailored vocational training programs and structured career paths for service providers, together with its robust privacy and data security measures. Additionally, Beike made notable strides in exploring opportunities in incorporating green concepts across various business scenarios, such as establishing the “Lianjia Green Store Standard” to regulate eco-friendly renovations, material recycling, and smart energy control installations for the brokerage stores. These efforts contributed to a remarkable 1.8-point increase in the ESG environmental category from the previous year.

    The MSCI ESG Rating, developed by a leading provider of critical decision support tools and services for the global investment community, MSCI, serves as a benchmark for institutional investors to measure a company’s resilience to financially material ESG risks and to deploy capital in ways that maximize investment return over their time horizon.

    With its mission of “admirable service, joyful living,” Beike is dedicated to creating long-term, sustainable value by reshaping China’s residential services industry through its infrastructure transformation and technology-driven innovation. This commitment empowers service providers to enhance their professional growth and deliver exceptional living experiences for consumers.

    About KE Holdings Inc.

    KE Holdings Inc. is a leading integrated online and offline platform for housing transactions and services. The Company is a pioneer in building infrastructure and standards to reinvent how service providers and customers efficiently navigate and complete housing transactions and services in China, ranging from existing and new home sales, home rentals, to home renovation and furnishing, and other services. The Company owns and operates Lianjia, China’s leading real estate brokerage brand and an integral part of its Beike platform. With more than 23 years of operating experience through Lianjia since its inception in 2001, the Company believes the success and proven track record of Lianjia pave the way for it to build its infrastructure and standards and drive the rapid and sustainable growth of Beike.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This press release contains statements that may constitute “forward-looking” statements pursuant to the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “aims,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “likely to,” and similar statements. Beike may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Hong Kong Stock Exchange”), in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about KE Holdings Inc.’s beliefs, plans, and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: Beike’s goals and strategies; Beike’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; expected changes in the Company’s revenues, costs or expenditures; Beike’s ability to empower services and facilitate transactions on Beike platform; competition in the industry in which Beike operates; relevant government policies and regulations relating to the industry; Beike’s ability to protect the Company’s systems and infrastructures from cyber-attacks; Beike’s dependence on the integrity of brokerage brands, stores and agents on the Company’s platform; general economic and business conditions in China and globally; and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in KE Holdings Inc.’s filings with the SEC and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and KE Holdings Inc. does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

    For more information, please visit: https://investors.ke.com.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    In China:
    KE Holdings Inc.
    Investor Relations
    Siting Li
    E-mail: ir@ke.com

    Piacente Financial Communications
    Jenny Cai
    Tel: +86-10-6508-0677
    E-mail: ke@tpg-ir.com

    In the United States:
    Piacente Financial Communications
    Brandi Piacente
    Tel: +1-212-481-2050
    E-mail: ke@tpg-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: AMD Unveils Next-Generation AMD RDNA™ 4 Architecture with the Launch of AMD Radeon™ RX 9000 Series Graphics Cards

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTA CLARA, Calif., Feb. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AMD (NASDAQ: AMD) today unveiled the highly-anticipated AMD RDNA™ 4 graphics architecture with the launch of the AMD Radeon™ RX 9070 XT and RX 9070 graphics cards as a part of the Radeon™ RX 9000 Series. The new graphics cards feature 16GB of memory and extensive improvements designed for high-quality gaming graphics, including re-vamped raytracing accelerators and powerful AI accelerators for ultra-fast, cutting-edge performance, and breakthrough gaming experiences.

    In a YouTube livestream, David McAfee, CVP and GM, Ryzen CPU and Radeon Graphics AMD, was joined by Andrej Zdravkovic, SVP of GPU Technologies and Engineering and Chief Software Officer, AMD, as well as Andy Pomianowski, CVP of Silicon Design Engineering, AMD, to discuss the outstanding performance and value proposition of the Radeon RX 9000 Series. In a related event in Zhuhai, China, Jack Huynh, SVP of the Client and Graphics Group, AMD, led a regional event for the new products. Huynh was joined by David Wang, SVP of GPU Technology and Engineering, AMD, and Lanzhi Wang, Senior Director of Product Management,  AMD. The celebration was also marked by a customer celebration with Darren Grasby, EVP and Chief Sales Officer, AMD; Spencer Pan, President of AMD China, and partners including Asrock, ASUS, Gigabyte, Sapphire, Tul, Vastarmor, Veston, and XFX.

    “Today, we’re thrilled to unveil the AMD Radeon™ RX 9000 Series, a significant leap forward in graphics performance powered by our next-generation AMD RDNA™ 4 architecture,” said McAfee. “These GPUs are designed to meet the demands of today’s games, delivering enthusiast-class gaming experiences to gamers everywhere, while ready to support tomorrow’s innovations. Through the power of advanced AI and Raytracing accelerators, we’re not just improving frame rates – we’re fundamentally enhancing the gaming experience. Offering incredible performance, AI-powered features, and next-gen display support at competitive price points, the Radeon RX 9000 Series delivers exceptional value for gamers looking to upgrade their systems.”

    The RX 9000 Series, powered by the new AMD RDNA™ 4 architecture, offers gamers and creators a powerful blend of performance, visuals, and value. These advanced graphics cards redefine incredibly fast, high-resolution gaming with third-generation raytracing technology enabling realistic lighting, shadows, and reflections to deliver immersive gaming experiences while integrating a suite of AMD features to maximize hardware utilization. Beyond gaming, the RX 9000 Series GPUs leverage new second-generation AI accelerators with up to 8x INT8 throughput per AI accelerator (for sparse matrices) to enhance creative applications and effectively run generative AI applications (vs. RDNA 3).1 The RX 9000 Series GPUs also implement the newly redesigned AMD Radiance Display™ Engine & Enhanced Media Engine for broad display support and elevated quality in both recording and streaming.

    Gaming For Today and Tomorrow
    The Radeon RX 9000 Series unlocks new levels of performance while delivering a suite of new and enhanced features that improve the gaming experience. The Radeon RX 9070 Series offers 16GB of GDDR6 memory, allowing gamers to render the most exciting games of today and tomorrow at max settings. Compared to the previous generation RX 7900 GRE, the latest AMD Radeon RX 9070 is able to deliver over 20% more performance on average when gaming at 1440,2 with the AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT extending that lead to over 40% on average.3

    Both graphics cards make smart upgrades for gamers looking to future-proof their systems with a suite of next-gen features that will keep their experiences feeling fresh for years to come. Key features include:

    • Unified AMD RDNA™ 4 Compute Units – Features up to 64 advanced AMD RDNA™ 4 compute units delivering up to 40% higher gaming performance than the previous-generation AMD RDNA™ 3 architecture.3
    • High-Performance Raytracing – With 3rd generation Raytracing Accelerators, AMD RDNA 4 is able to deliver over 2x the Raytracing throughput per compute unit when compared to our previous generation.1 Gamers with the latest AMD Radeon RX 9000 Series are ready for immersive gaming experiences with high-quality graphics, including realistic lighting, shadows, and reflections.
    • Supercharged AI Acceleration – 2nd Generation AI Accelerators received several enhancements, allowing AMD RDNA™ 4 to efficiently process advanced AI models much faster than what was possible with RDNA 3,4 through a combination of additional math pipelines for AI calculations, expanding the capabilities of the AI Accelerator to support new emerging data types such as FP8, and support for inference optimization techniques such as structured sparsity. These changes deliver up to 8x INT8 throughput per AI accelerator (for sparse matrices) per compute unit vs the previous generation.1
    • AMD FidelityFX™ Super Resolution Technology 4 (FSR 4) – AMD’s new cutting-edge ML-powered upscaling technology delivers high-quality boosted frames under even the most demanding workloads, such as 4K gaming with maximum raytracing settings and will be supported in over 30 games at launch.
    • Innovative suite of features through HYPR-RX – Gamers can instantly improve their experience by activating AMD HYPR-RX and the suite of features within AMD Software, including AMD Radeon™ Super Resolution, AMD Fluid Motion Frames 2.1, AMD Radeon™ Anti-Lag, and AMD Radeon™ Boost. These features can all be tailored to gamers’ hardware and preferences within AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition™ to drive increased FPS, responsiveness and efficiency.
    • AI-Enhanced AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition™ Application – A new suite of software and resources designed to deliver an industry-leading AI user experience with AMD Radeon RX 9070 Series graphics cards. Keep your drivers and AI software up to date with the new Software Manager. Find the answers to your questions about all things AMD or create free and private text and images with AMD Chat. Discover, download and install new and exciting AMD-partnered AI applications with the App Portal, and leverage AI to improve software quality with the AMD Image Inspector.
    • Ready for Next-Generation Displays – AMD Radiance Display™ Engine supports the latest DisplayPort™ 2.1a and HDMI® 2.1b connections, enabling ultra-high resolutions and refresh rates up to 8K 144Hz, with 12-bit HDR and full REC2020 Color Space for incredible color accuracy. Paired with AMD FreeSync™ technology, gamers can enjoy tear-free, stutter-free gaming experiences on over 4000 compatible displays, including upcoming 4K 240Hz and 8K 144Hz DisplayPort™ 2.1 monitors.5

    ML-Powered AMD FidelityFX™ Super Resolution 4 (AMD FSR 4) Upgrade

    • Available exclusively on AMD Radeon™ RX 9000 Series graphics cards, AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition™ adds a new easy-to-use AMD FidelityFX™ Super Resolution 4 (AMD FSR 4) Upgrade feature that helps maximize performance at maximum quality in over 30 games at launch, with 75 coming later this year. AMD FSR 4 delivers a substantial image quality improvement over AMD FSR 3.1 upscaling, with the new ML-based algorithm helping to improve temporal stability, better preserve detail, and reduce ghosting. 
    • Utilizing features already built into the AMD FidelityFX™ API added when game developers integrate AMD FSR 3.1 into their games, AMD FSR 4 enables an easy upgrade for supported FSR 3.1 games and can be combined with existing in-game AMD FSR 3.1 advanced frame-generation and AMD Radeon™ Anti-Lag 2 for ultra-smooth, ultra-responsive gaming at incredible frame rates on AMD Radeon RX 9070 Series graphics cards.
    • The new ML-accelerated AMD FSR 4 upscaling algorithm is trained using high-quality ground truth game data on AMD Instinct™ Accelerators and uses the hardware-accelerated FP8 Wave Matrix Multiply Accumulate (WMMA) feature of the AMD RDNA™ 4 architecture to ensure maximum upscaling quality while still providing a substantial game performance boost.

    AMD Radeon RX 9000 Series Product Specifications

    Model Compute Units GDDR6 Game Clock (GHz) Boost Clock6 (GHz) Memory Interface Infinity Cache TBP Price
    (USD SEP)
    AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT 64 16 GB 2.4 Up to 3.0 256-bit 64 MB 304W $599
    AMD Radeon RX 9070 56 16 GB 2.1 Up to 2.5 256-bit 64 MB 220W $549


    Pricing and Availability
    AMD Radeon RX 9000 Series graphics cards are expected to be available from leading board partners including Acer, ASRock, ASUS, Gigabyte, PowerColor, Sapphire, Vastarmor, XFX and Yeston beginning March 6th, 2025. The AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT has an SEP of $599 USD, while the AMD Radeon RX 9070 has an SEP of $549 USD.

    Supporting Resources

    • Learn more AMD Radeon Graphics cards here
    • Learn about RDNA 4 here
    • Learn more about AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution here
    • Follow AMD on LinkedIn
    • Follow AMD on X

    About AMD
    For more than 50 years AMD has driven innovation in high-performance computing, graphics and visualization technologies. Billions of people, leading Fortune 500 businesses and cutting-edge scientific research institutions around the world rely on AMD technology daily to improve how they live, work and play. AMD employees are focused on building leadership high-performance and adaptive products that push the boundaries of what is possible. For more information about how AMD is enabling today and inspiring tomorrow, visit the AMD (NASDAQ: AMD) website, blog, LinkedIn and X pages.

    Cautionary Statement
    This press release contains forward-looking statements concerning Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (AMD) such as the features, functionality, performance, availability, timing and expected benefits of AMD products including the AMD Radeon™ RX 9000 Series graphics cards, which are made pursuant to the Safe Harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are commonly identified by words such as “would,” “may,” “expects,” “believes,” “plans,” “intends,” “projects” and other terms with similar meaning. Investors are cautioned that the forward-looking statements in this press release are based on current beliefs, assumptions and expectations, speak only as of the date of this press release and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations. Such statements are subject to certain known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and generally beyond AMD’s control, that could cause actual results and other future events to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied or projected by, the forward-looking information and statements. Material factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, without limitation, the following: Intel Corporation’s dominance of the microprocessor market and its aggressive business practices; Nvidia’s dominance in the graphics processing unit market and its aggressive business practices; competitive markets in which AMD’s products are sold; the cyclical nature of the semiconductor industry; market conditions of the industries in which AMD products are sold; AMD’s ability to introduce products on a timely basis with expected features and performance levels; loss of a significant customer; economic and market uncertainty; quarterly and seasonal sales patterns; AMD’s ability to adequately protect its technology or other intellectual property; unfavorable currency exchange rate fluctuations; ability of third party manufacturers to manufacture AMD’s products on a timely basis in sufficient quantities and using competitive technologies; availability of essential equipment, materials, substrates or manufacturing processes; ability to achieve expected manufacturing yields for AMD’s products; AMD’s ability to generate revenue from its semi-custom SoC products; potential security vulnerabilities; potential security incidents including IT outages, data loss, data breaches and cyberattacks; uncertainties involving the ordering and shipment of AMD’s products; AMD’s reliance on third-party intellectual property to design and introduce new products; AMD’s reliance on third-party companies for design, manufacture and supply of motherboards, software, memory and other computer platform components; AMD’s reliance on Microsoft and other software vendors’ support to design and develop software to run on AMD’s products; AMD’s reliance on third-party distributors and add-in-board partners; impact of modification or interruption of AMD’s internal business processes and information systems; compatibility of AMD’s products with some or all industry-standard software and hardware; costs related to defective products; efficiency of AMD’s supply chain; AMD’s ability to rely on third party supply-chain logistics functions; AMD’s ability to effectively control sales of its products on the gray market; long-term impact of climate change on AMD’s business; impact of government actions and regulations such as export regulations, tariffs and trade protection measures; AMD’s ability to realize its deferred tax assets; potential tax liabilities; current and future claims and litigation; impact of environmental laws, conflict minerals related provisions and other laws or regulations; evolving expectations from governments, investors, customers and other stakeholders regarding corporate responsibility matters; issues related to the responsible use of AI; restrictions imposed by agreements governing AMD’s notes, the guarantees of Xilinx’s notes and the revolving credit agreement; impact of acquisitions, joint ventures and/or strategic investments on AMD’s business and AMD’s ability to integrate acquired businesses; our ability to complete the acquisition of ZT Systems; impact of any impairment of the combined company’s assets; political, legal and economic risks and natural disasters; future impairments of technology license purchases; AMD’s ability to attract and retain qualified personnel; and AMD’s stock price volatility. Investors are urged to review in detail the risks and uncertainties in AMD’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including but not limited to AMD’s most recent reports on Forms 10-K and 10-Q.

    © 2025 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. All rights reserved. AMD, the AMD Arrow logo, AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition, AMD RDNA, FidelityFX, Radeon, Ryzen, and combinations thereof are trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. Other product names used in this publication are for identification purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective owners. Certain AMD technologies may require third-party enablement or activation. Supported features may vary by operating system. Please confirm with the system manufacturer for specific features. No technology or product can be completely secure.

    1 Based on specifications of AMD RDNA 4 architecture compared to AMD RDNA 3 architecture as of December 2024. RX-1143
    2 Testing done by AMD performance labs February 2025, on a test system configured with Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU, 32 GB DDR5-6000 Memory, Windows 11 Pro and Radeon RX 9070 (Driver 25.3.1 RC 31) vs. a similarly configured system with an RX 7900 GRE (Driver 25.3.1 RC31) comparing gaming performance at 4K in the following applications: Cyberpunk 2077 (DX12, Ultra), Cyberpunk 2077 (DX12, RT Ultra), Assassin’s Creed Mirage (DX12, Ultra High), F1 24 (DX12, Ultra High), F1 24 (DX12, Ultra High RT), Starfield (DX12, Ultra), Far Cry 6 (DX12, Ultra), Far Cry 6 (DX12, Ultra RT), Forza Horizon 5 (DX12, Extreme), Forza Horizon 5 (DX12, RT Extreme), Watch Dogs Legion (DX12, Ultra), Watch Dogs Legion (DX12, RT Ultra), Horizon Forbidden West (DX12, Maxed), Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered (DX12, Maxed), God of War: Ragnarok (DX12, Ultra), Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 (DX12, Extreme), DOOM Eternal (Vulkan, Ultra Nightmare), DOOM Eternal (Vulkan, Ultra Nightmare RT), Total War: Warhammer 3 (DX11, Ultra), Dying Light 2 (DX12, High), Dying Light 2 (DX12, High Raytracing), Alan Wake 2 (DX12, High), Alan Wake 2 (DX12, High w/Med RT), Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora (DX12, Ultra), Hitman 3 (DX12, Ultra), Hitman 3 (DX12, Ultra RT), The Witcher 3 (DX12, Ultra+), The Witcher 3 (DX12, RT Ultra), Metro Exodus Enhanced Edition (DX12, Extreme), Black Myth: Wukong (DX12, Cinematic), Black Myth: Wukong (DX12, Cinematic RT) Baldur’s Gate 3 (DX11, Ultra), Ghost of Tsushima (DX12, Very High), Star Wars Outlaws (DX12, Ultra RT), Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 (DX12, Ultra), Control (DX12, High), Control (DX12, High RT), Dragon Age: The Veilguard (DX12, Ultra), Dragon Age: The Veilguard (DX12, Ultra RT), Resident Evil 4 (DX12, Max), Resident Evil 4 (DX12, Max RT), Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 (DX12, Maxed), Marvel’s Spiderman 2 (DX12, Maxed RT), Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 (DX12, Ultra), The Last of Us: Part 1 (DX12, Ultra), S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl (DX12, Epic), Final Fantasy XVI Demo (DX12, Ultra). Testing conducted with latest game builds as of February 5, 2025 (Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, The Last of Us: Part 1, and Forza Horizon 5 using latest builds as of February 14th, 2025). System manufacturers may vary configurations, yielding different results. RX-1176.
    3 Testing done by AMD performance labs February 2025, on a test system configured with Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU, 32 GB DDR5-6000 Memory, Windows 11 Pro and Radeon RX 9070 XT (Driver 25.3.1 RC 31) vs. a similarly configured system with an RX 7900 GRE (Driver 25.3.1 RC31) comparing gaming performance at 4K in the following applications: Cyberpunk 2077 (DX12, Ultra), Cyberpunk 2077 (DX12, RT Ultra), Assassin’s Creed Mirage (DX12, Ultra High), F1 24 (DX12, Ultra High), F1 24 (DX12, Ultra High RT), Starfield (DX12, Ultra), Far Cry 6 (DX12, Ultra), Far Cry 6 (DX12, Ultra RT), Forza Horizon 5 (DX12, Extreme), Forza Horizon 5 (DX12, RT Extreme), Watch Dogs Legion (DX12, Ultra), Watch Dogs Legion (DX12, RT Ultra), Horizon Forbidden West (DX12, Maxed), Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered (DX12, Maxed), God of War: Ragnarok (DX12, Ultra), Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 (DX12, Extreme), DOOM Eternal (Vulkan, Ultra Nightmare), DOOM Eternal (Vulkan, Ultra Nightmare RT), Total War: Warhammer 3 (DX11, Ultra), Dying Light 2 (DX12, High), Dying Light 2 (DX12, High Raytracing), Alan Wake 2 (DX12, High), Alan Wake 2 (DX12, High w/Med RT), Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora (DX12, Ultra), Hitman 3 (DX12, Ultra), Hitman 3 (DX12, Ultra RT), The Witcher 3 (DX12, Ultra+), The Witcher 3 (DX12, RT Ultra), Metro Exodus Enhanced Edition (DX12, Extreme), Black Myth: Wukong (DX12, Cinematic), Black Myth: Wukong (DX12, Cinematic RT) Baldur’s Gate 3 (DX11, Ultra), Ghost of Tsushima (DX12, Very High), Star Wars Outlaws (DX12, Ultra RT), Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 (DX12, Ultra), Control (DX12, High), Control (DX12, High RT), Dragon Age: The Veilguard (DX12, Ultra), Dragon Age: The Veilguard (DX12, Ultra RT), Resident Evil 4 (DX12, Max), Resident Evil 4 (DX12, Max RT), Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 (DX12, Maxed), Marvel’s Spiderman 2 (DX12, Maxed RT), Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 (DX12 Ultra), The Last of Us: Part 1 (DX12, Ultra), S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl (DX12, Epic), Final Fantasy XVI Demo (DX12, Ultra). Testing conducted with latest game builds as of February 5, 2025 (Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, The Last of Us: Part 1, and Forza Horizon 5 using latest builds as of February 14th, 2025). System manufacturers may vary configurations, yielding different results. RX-1179.
    4 Testing by AMD, as of February 2025 using Amuse 2.3.15 and Procyon 2.10.1542 64. Models used: SD 1.5, SDXL, ComputerVision FP16, and FLUX Schnell. System configuration: AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D, 32GB 6000 MT/s DDR5 RAM, 2TB SSD with an AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT GPU vs. a similarly configured system with a Radeon RX 7900 GRE GPU. Driver 25.3.1 RC 31. Performance may vary. RX-1168.
    5 AMD FreeSync/FreeSync Premium/FreeSync Premium Pro technology requires AMD Radeon graphics and a display certified by AMD. See www.amd.com/freesync for complete details. Confirm capability with your system or display manufacturer before purchase. GD-127.
    6 Boost Clock Frequency is the maximum frequency achievable on the GPU running a bursty workload. Boost clock achievability, frequency, and sustainability will vary based on several factors, including but not limited to: thermal conditions and variation in applications and workloads. GD-151.

    Contact:
    Stacy MacDiarmid
    AMD Communications
    +1 512-658-2265
    Stacy.MacDiarmid@amd.com

    Matt Ramsay
     AMD Investor Relations
    +1 512-496-0197
    Matthew.Ramsay@amd.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d4e6957f-0945-483c-9795-cf97039270b9

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: Pakistani astronaut to enter Chinese space station

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The China Manned Space Engineering Office (CMSEO) and the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) signed a cooperation agreement on the spaceflight of Pakistani astronaut to the Chinese space station on Friday.

    Under the agreement, the Chinese government will select and train a group of Pakistani astronauts, and one of them will be the first foreign astronaut to enter the Chinese space station.

    The selection process will last about a year, and the Pakistani astronauts will join a comprehensive and systematic training camp in China. After that, Pakistani astronauts will carry out short-term flight missions in batches together with their Chinese counterparts in the space station in the next few years.

    In the presence of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the agreement was signed by Lin Xiqiang, deputy director of the CMSEO and Muhammad Yousuf Khan, chairman of the SUPARCO at the Prime Minister’s House. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese astronomer details dual targets of Tianwen-2 mission

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

    BEIJING, Feb. 28 — China is set to launch the Tianwen-2 mission this year, aiming to unravel the mysteries of a “living fossil” of the solar system and one “rebel” of the main asteroid belt.

    The Tianwen-2 mission aims to achieve multiple goals in a single launch: it will collect samples from the near-Earth asteroid 2016HO3, as well as explore the main-belt comet 311P.

    An astronomer with the National Astronomical Observatories of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (NAOC) recently explained why these two targets are so intriguing and what cosmic secrets they might hold.

    Discovered in 2016 by the Pan-STARRS telescope in Hawaii, asteroid 2016HO3, located millions to tens of millions of kilometers away from Earth, is the first quasi-satellite of Earth ever discovered. Though not a natural moon, this 40-100 meter-wide asteroid orbits the Sun with parameters almost identical to Earth’s, constantly “wandering” near our planet.

    “A quasi-satellite is essentially a small celestial body that orbits the Sun, just like Earth. Its trajectory is quite similar to Earth’s. From our perspective on Earth, it appears to oscillate periodically around us. That’s why we call it a quasi-satellite,” explained Yan Wei, senior engineer at the NAOC.

    Scientists believe such asteroids preserve critical information about the solar system’s infancy. “These ‘cosmic fossils’ could reveal details about early solar system composition and evolution,” Yan noted.

    However, some researchers speculate the asteroid 2016HO3 might be debris from an ancient cosmic collision.

    Upon arrival, the Tianwen-2 probe will photograph the asteroid’s surface, analyze its rotation patterns and composition. “Comparing its material composition with that of the moon and Earth will be the focus of our exploration,” Yan emphasized.

    The mission also targets main-belt comet 311P, a celestial anomaly discovered in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter by American scientists in 2013. It had multiple dust tails and resembled a comet, which was highly unusual in the dry asteroid belt. Further observations confirmed that this object had the stable orbit of an asteroid but occasionally released dusts. It was thus classified as a main-belt comet and became the seventh such object ever confirmed and the most peculiar one to date.

    “Main-belt comets are actually a unique type of asteroid, but exhibiting some cometary features. When they get closer to the Sun, they can release materials, including gases and particles,” Yan explained.

    Traditionally, comets are believed to originate from the outer edges of the solar system with large amounts of ice. When they approach the Sun, the ice evaporates, forming a spectacular tail.

    Located in the main asteroid belt, a region hosting over 90 percent of the solar system’s asteroids, 311P challenges astronomers’ conventional understanding, as the region is too close to the Sun for the celestial body to retain its volatile materials like water ice.

    Tianwen-2 will visit this “rebel” of the asteroid belt to uncover its mysteries and advance human’s understanding of the solar system.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Construction sites in Xiong’an New Area, China’s Hebei

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

    Construction sites in Xiong’an New Area, China’s Hebei

    Updated: February 28, 2025 20:57 Xinhua
    A drone photo taken on Feb. 27, 2025 shows the construction site of Sinochem Holdings building and Xiong’an’s Guomao area in Xiong’an New Area, north China’s Hebei Province. Xiong’an New Area is pushing forward construction projects with top quality and high standards. Since China announced plans to establish the Xiong’an New Area in April 2017, it has evolved from a blueprint into a vibrant city. As of the end of 2024, Xiong’an has developed an area of over 200 square kilometers and has drawn investments exceeding 830 billion yuan. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A drone photo taken on Feb. 27, 2025 shows the construction site of a primary school in Xiong’an’s start-up area, north China’s Hebei Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People work at the construction site of a college town in Xiong’an New Area, north China’s Hebei Province, Feb. 27, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A drone photo taken on Feb. 27, 2025 shows the construction site of Xiong’an’s Guomao area in north China’s Hebei Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Staff members of China Construction Third Engineering Bureau Group Co., Ltd. work at the construction site of the headquarters of China Mineral Resources Group Ltd. (CMRG) in Xiong’an New Area, north China’s Hebei Province, Feb. 27, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Staff members of China Construction Third Engineering Bureau Group Co., Ltd. work at the construction site of the headquarters of China Mineral Resources Group Ltd. (CMRG) in Xiong’an New Area, north China’s Hebei Province, Feb. 27, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A drone photo taken on Feb. 27, 2025 shows the construction site of a college town in Xiong’an New Area, north China’s Hebei Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    People work at the construction site of a college town in Xiong’an New Area, north China’s Hebei Province, Feb. 27, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A drone photo taken on Feb. 27, 2025 shows staff members of China Construction Third Engineering Bureau Group Co., Ltd. working at the construction site of Xiong’an Science and Technology Innovation Center in Xiong’an New Area, north China’s Hebei Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A drone photo taken on Feb. 27, 2025 shows the construction site of the headquarters of China Mineral Resources Group Ltd. (CMRG) in Xiong’an New Area, north China’s Hebei Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on Feb. 27, 2025 shows people working at a construction site of a college town in Xiong’an New Area, north China’s Hebei Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Foreign Minister concludes North Asia visit

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters has concluded visits to China, Mongolia and the Republic of Korea focused on deepening ties with North Asia.    

    “Our time spent this week in Beijing, Ulaanbaatar and Seoul has underlined the opportunities for New Zealand for enhanced engagement with North Asia,” Mr Peters says. 

    “North Asia is a dynamic region – and New Zealand is striving to do more with it.” 

    During his visit to Seoul, Mr Peters met Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul.   

    “It was timely to re-connect with Foreign Minister Cho, and continue our dialogue on the major strategic challenges facing the Indo-Pacific and the wider world,” Mr Peters says. 

    “Our countries have a strong, shared focus on promoting a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific.”   

    The New Zealand and Korean Foreign Ministers reaffirmed the strong bilateral relationship, including our close cooperation on security, trade, and enduring people-to-people links.    

    “We look forward to enhanced collaboration with Korea as we work towards finalising a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Korea is New Zealand’s 4th largest trading partner, and we are looking for ways to further enhance our trade and economic links.”   

    During his visit to Seoul, Mr Peters also had a meeting in his capacity as Minister for Rail.   

    “We took the opportunity while in Korea to meet with ship building company Hyundai Heavy Industries,” Mr Peters says. 

    “It was good to acknowledge our long relationship. We are in a global search for new ferries, exploring a range of options, and will have more to say on this after Cabinet meets at the end of March.”   

    South Korea is the final of five countries that Mr Peters has visited on this trip, following the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, China and Mongolia. He departs for New Zealand later today.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom partners with 21 Brazilian state governors to protect the environment, cut harmful pollution

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 27, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – California and a consortium of 21 Brazilian states are partnering together to combat pollution and foster sustainable economic growth. 

    Governor Gavin Newsom and Governor Renato Casagrande of the Brazilian state of Espírito Santo signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today that establishes a four-year partnership between California and the Brazilian consortium of states leading on environmental protections, Consórcio Brasil Verde (CBV).

    Together with these 21 Brazilian states, California is committed to advancing a bold, collaborative action plan that tackles pollution, protects public health and safety, and creates good-paying jobs.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    This collaboration encompasses clean air, transportation and energy; adaptation; forest management; and more. The full text of the MOU is available here. R20 Regions of Climate Action – an organization founded by former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to support subnational climate work – played a key role in supporting this MOU.

    “This is a historic opportunity to join efforts and share knowledge between Brazilian states and California, which is a reference in combating climate change,” said Governor Renato Casagrande. “The partnership not only reaffirms our commitment to sustainability but also highlights the importance of active participation from everyone in building solutions that benefit our planet.”

    How we got here: California met its 2020 climate target six years ahead of schedule thanks to world-leading climate policies and partnerships across the U.S. and around the world, created to share best practices and support cooperation on climate work.

    • Last year, Governor Newsom welcomed a new international partnership with South Korea’s Gyeonggi Province to collaborate on climate and economic efforts. Also last year, Governor Newsom welcomed delegations from Sweden and Norway and signed renewed climate partnerships with the two governments.
    • In 2023, Governor Newsom led a California delegation to China, where California signed five MOUs – with China’s National Development and Reform Commission, the provinces of Guangdong and Jiangsu, and the municipalities of Beijing, and Shanghai. The trip also resulted in a first-of-its-kind declaration by China and California to cooperate on climate action like aggressively cutting greenhouse gas emissions, transitioning away from fossil fuels, and developing clean energy.
    • Also in 2023, California signed a MOU with the Chinese province of Hainan, as well as with Australia.
    • In 2022, California signed Memorandums of Cooperation with Canada, New Zealand and Japan, as well as Memorandums of Understanding with China and the Netherlands, to tackle the climate crisis. The Governor also joined with Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia to recommit the region to climate action.

    Press Releases, Recent News

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    Feb 26, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom today released a new economic vision for California’s future with a bold plan, realized locally. The unveiling comes alongside the announcement of more than $245 million in investments to help support workers statewide,…

    Feb 25, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom today issued a statement in response to the Trump administration’s announcement that it had released more than $315 million of obligated money to create new water storage at the future Sites Reservoir and at the existing San…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi meets Russian Federation Security Council secretary

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

    BEIJING, Feb. 28 — Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Sergei Shoigu, secretary of the Russian Federation Security Council, here on Friday.

    Noting that China and Russia are friendly neighbors and true friends, Xi said he and President Vladimir Putin have communicated twice this year, making overarching plans for the development of China-Russia relations and having in-depth exchanges on a series of major international and regional issues.

    He said the two sides should maintain close communication at all levels to fully implement the consensus reached between the two heads of state and promote permanent good-neighborliness and friendship, comprehensive strategic coordination and mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries.

    Shoigu conveyed President Putin’s cordial greetings to President Xi, saying that President Putin highly values the sincere friendship and close contact with President Xi.

    The relations between Russia and China have reached an unprecedented high level and do not target any third party, Shoigu said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by DSJ at closing ceremony of National Training Course for Talents Handling Foreign-related Arbitration (Hong Kong) (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is the speech by the Deputy Secretary for Justice, Dr Cheung kwok-kwan, at the closing ceremony of the National Training Course for Talents Handling Foreign-related Arbitration (Hong Kong) today (February 28):

    Mr Zhao (Vice Chairman and General Manager of China Legal Service (H.K.) Limited, Mr Zhao Zhenhua), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

    Good afternoon. As we gather here today to conclude the National Training Course for Talents Handling Foreign-related Arbitration (Hong Kong), I am reminded of the saying that “time flies when you are having fun. It seems like just yesterday we were welcoming you to this Course. Yet, here we are, at the end of an enriching journey that has spanned several days of insightful lectures, engaging dialogues and practical experience.

    First, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Ministry of Justice, the China University of Political Science and Law, and the China Legal Service (H.K.) Limited for their support and trust in the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy. We are deeply grateful for their support and assistance, which have been crucial to the success of this Course. I eagerly anticipate our continued collaboration and future endeavors together.

    I would also like to extend my sincere gratitude to each of you for your active participation and valuable contributions. The thoughtful questions you asked, the insightful perspectives you shared, and the engaging discussions you participated in have all significantly enriched our collective learning experience.

    As you may be aware of, the Supreme People’s Court and the Ministry of Justice of the People’s Republic of China have jointly issued the (Opinions on Giving Full Play to the Role of Arbitration to Serve the High-quality Development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area), expanding the scope of arbitration services regarding “Hong Kong-invested enterprises choosing Hong Kong Law” and “Hong Kong-invested enterprises choosing Hong Kong as the arbitration place.

    The new measures, effective from February 14 of this year, include that (i) Hong Kong-invested enterprises registered in Shenzhen and Zhuhai may choose Hong Kong law as the applicable laws in contracts, regardless of the proportion of investment; and (ii) Hong Kong-invested enterprises registered in the nine Mainland municipalities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) may choose Hong Kong as the place of arbitration to resolve commercial disputes, in addition to being able to agree on the Mainland as the arbitration location.

    These new measures implement the content of the Second Agreement Concerning Amendment to the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement Agreement on Trade in Services in October last year, providing investors and enterprises in the GBA with more and broader legal services options. They also establish a better, more diversified dispute resolution mechanism based on joint discussion, joint construction, and shared benefits.

    The Opinions provide suggestions for accelerating the construction of world-class arbitration institutions in the GBA, establishing unified first-class arbitration rules and online negotiation and resolution platforms in the GBA, expanding the service areas of arbitration institutions in the nine Mainland municipalities of the GBA, improving the arbitration and succession mechanisms, as well as the judicial supervision mechanisms, and establishing a training mechanism for foreign-related arbitration.

    The Department of Justice of the Hong Kong Special Administration Region will continue to actively co-operate with municipalities in the GBA to promote the integrated development, seeking to give full play to Hong Kong’s capability in nurturing foreign-related legal talents, and assist the country in providing more training for foreign-related talents.

    As the Academy strives to continuously improve and enhance our training programmes, we would greatly appreciate your feedback on this Course. As you all hail from diverse backgrounds in government, universities, lawyers’ associations and enterprises, and are all leaders and experts in your respective fields, your insights and suggestions are very invaluable to us, helping us tailor future courses to better meet your needs and expectations.

    As we move forward, let us continue to build on the connections and insights that we gained from this Course. I wish you all a safe journey back home, and continued success in your professional pursuits. Thank you very much.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKETO, Brussels celebrates Chinese New Year across Europe and highlights Hong Kong’s exciting year ahead (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels) hosted vibrant Chinese New Year receptions across various European countries, marking the beginning of the Year of the Snake. The receptions, held in Luxembourg (February 12), Lisbon, Portugal (February 17), The Hague, the Netherlands (February 20), and Bucharest, Romania (February 25), were well-received by distinguished guests and partners.

         The receptions provided an opportunity to reflect on Hong Kong’s achievements and share the city’s vision. HKETO, Brussels emphasised Hong Kong’s dynamic calendar of world-class events that solidify its reputation as “Events Capital of Asia”.  Stepping into 2025 with great dynamism and enthusiasm, Hong Kong is set to host an array of high-profile events spanning business, sports, arts, and culture. “Hong Kong is entering the new year with energy and glamour, full of exciting events that highlight our dynamic cosmopolitan spirit,” stated the Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the European Union, Ms Shirley Yung.

         In 2024, Hong Kong recorded 45 million international arrivals, nearly 10 000 foreign and Mainland companies, 2 700 family offices and 4 700 start-ups, demonstrating that Hong Kong remains a magnet for visitors and businesses alike. Hong Kong is poised for further success with upcoming initiatives, such as a lowered liquor tax, to enhance its appeal to international visitors and fulfil its role as the international financial, trade and shipping centre.

         “Hong Kong’s distinct advantages were recognised in the latest international rankings,” Ms Yung said during the receptions, noting that Hong Kong is ranked among the world’s top three international financial centres, the freest economy in the world, and among the top five in global competitiveness. Ms Yung elaborated that global investors continue to have confidence in Hong Kong, as evidenced by the continuous inflow of funds and growth in bank deposits. The asset and wealth management sector in Hong Kong is also handling over US$4 trillion, representing more than a 30 per cent increase in six years.

         HKETO, Brussels also highlighted Hong Kong as a hub for international cultural exchange, where East meets West. In Lisbon, guests experienced a unique cultural fusion centred on ballet that blends classical technique with contemporary sensibility, performed by Lam Chun-wing, a well-known Hong Kong-born ballet dancer, and an original transcription of Debussy’s “Prélude” for piano solo by the renowned French pianist Alexandre Tharaud. The performance was accompanied by breathtaking video projections specifically produced for the occasion, showcasing Hong Kong’s lesser-known natural landscapes and revealing a side of Hong Kong far removed from its urban reputation as a bustling financial hub of skyscrapers and dense modernity.

         In The Hague, an ensemble of talented Hong Kong musicians presented a vibrant mix of popular cantopop songs and moving opera arias. The outstanding performance by the soprano and tenor singers, accompanied by keyboard, won enthusiastic applause from the audience.

         The receptions in Luxembourg, Lisbon, The Hague and Bucharest brought together 700 guests, including officials from national governments, consulates and embassies, financial and business sectors, academia, cultural and creative sectors, media and the Chinese community. They were co-organised with Invest Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council; the Luxembourg Chamber of Commence and the China-Luxembourg Chamber of Commercefor the reception in Luxembourg, the Netherlands Hong Kong Business Association for the reception in The Hague, with the support of The Portugal-Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce and Industry for the reception in Lisbon, and the National Confederation for Female Entrepreneurship for the reception in Bucharest.                                          

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SCST at opening of The Hong Kong Institute of Architects Belt & Road International Symposium 2025 (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Speech by SCST at opening of The Hong Kong Institute of Architects Belt & Road International Symposium 2025 (English only)
    Speech by SCST at opening of The Hong Kong Institute of Architects Belt & Road International Symposium 2025 (English only)
    ******************************************************************************************

         Following is the speech by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, at the opening of The Hong Kong Institute of Architects Belt & Road International Symposium 2025 today (February 28):     President Julia Lau (President of the Hong Kong Institute of Architects), 葉副部長 (Deputy Director-General of the Department of Educational, Scientific and Technological Affairs of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mr Ye Shuiqiu), 孟建民副理事長 (Vice Chairman of the Architectural Society of China, Dr Meng Jianmin), Ar Saifuddin (President of Architects Regional Council Asia, Mr Saifuddin Bin Ahmad), Ar Gonthier (President of International Union of Architects, Ms Regina Gonthier), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,      Good morning. It gives me great pleasure to join you this morning at the opening of The Hong Kong Institute of Architects (HKIA) Belt and Road International Symposium 2025. This is my first time attending an HKIA event as the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, but actually I am very happy to see many old friends in this distinguished audience.           As an important strategy of the Central People’s Government, the Belt and Road Initiative has entered its golden era. Themed as “Cultiversal – The Tapestry of Cultural Diversity & Universality”, the Symposium today is held at an opportune time. I believe many of us would actually look forward to hearing from the prestigious speakers to share their insights on urban-rural integration, heritage and modernity, and other interesting topics on architecture. May I give a warm welcome to these elites from Hong Kong, the Mainland of China and seven other countries.            In the coming two days, we will be exploring innovative possibilities for the future with a view to promoting Hong Kong’s architectural services to the Mainland of China and countries along the Belt and Road Initiative.           Funded by the Professional Services Advancement Support Scheme set up by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, today’s Symposium aims at fostering the exchange of local and international professionals in the industry of architecture. The objective also aligns with the policy direction of the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) under my Bureau.           The CCIDA is dedicated to fostering a conducive environment in Hong Kong to facilitate the development of arts, culture and creative sectors as industries. The architecture sector, being one of the major components of our robust cultural and creative industries, has been a close partner of the CCIDA. We have also sponsored the HKIA Biennale Foundation to organise the Hong Kong Collateral Event at Biennale Architettura – International Architecture Exhibition and Hong Kong Shenzhen Bi-City Biennale of UrbanismArchitecture (Hong Kong) to promote Hong Kong’s architecture in the international arena and to the local public. I am thrilled to learn that the Hong Kong Collateral Event has developed into a roving exhibition which also tours in one Belt and Road country and the Mainland of China in each edition.           Speaking of the development of creative industries in Hong Kong, the Government promulgated the Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development in November last year, setting out a clear vision, principles and strategic directions for the development of the industries, thereby further consolidating Hong Kong’s position as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange. We will continue to support the cultural and creative industries, including the architecture sector, to tap into new markets and promote cultural exchanges, in particular with Belt and Road countries and regions.           Before I close, I would like to congratulate the HKIA for organising another successful edition of the Symposium. Thank you.

     
    Ends/Friday, February 28, 2025Issued at HKT 11:52

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Task Group on New Medical School discusses next steps for evaluating proposals on establishment of third medical school (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Task Group on New Medical School, co-chaired by the Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, and the Secretary for Education, Dr Choi Yuk-lin, convened its third meeting today (February 28) to discuss the next steps for evaluating proposals on the establishment of the third medical school.

         At the meeting, the Task Group agreed to adopt a holistic and comprehensive approach, in accordance with the 10 key parameters as set out earlier (including the financial sustainability of the new medical school), for evaluating the proposals submitted by universities from various perspectives. The expert advisors and other members of the Task Group will conduct an in-depth evaluation of the proposals in their respective areas of expertise. Apart from evaluating the content of the proposals, the Task Group also plans to conduct interviews within the second quarter of this year with the universities which have submitted proposals to get a better grasp of the proposals for making a consolidated consideration. The Task Group expects to complete the evaluation and recommend to the Government within this year a proposal that is in line with developing Hong Kong into an international medical training, research and innovation hub.

         Professor Lo said, “I hope that the final recommendation put forward by the Task Group later this year on the establishment of the new medical school will bring the standards of medical education and research in Hong Kong to new heights. In addition, the Financial Secretary has announced in the 2025-26 Budget that the Government will set aside resources to support universities in the development of the new medical school on a matching basis. In this connection, the financial sustainability of the proposed new medical school is of great importance. The funding arrangement of the new medical school is in fact also one of the 10 key parameters for consideration as set out by the Task Group earlier. The Task Group will examine in detail whether the proposals provide for a diversified funding plan, combined with viable financial management, to ensure the long-term and sustainable development of the new medical school.”

         Dr Choi said, “The 2024-2035 master plan on building China into a leading country in education newly released by our nation strives to accelerate the development of world-class universities and advanced disciplines. The assessment framework for the new medical school as endorsed by the Task Group lays down clear assessment requirements and criteria, including teaching and learning quality, and research excellence. As an important part of the Northern Metropolis University Town (NMUT), the new medical school not only can contribute to the overall development of the relevant university, but also enhance the academic and research excellence of the medical sector, which is conducive to developing Hong Kong into an international post-secondary education hub. We expect that the proposals to be submitted by the relevant institutions will set out collaborative development strategies with the higher education clusters and the medical sector in the vicinity of the NMUT to enhance the international competitiveness of Hong Kong’s post-secondary education.”

         The Task Group was established in October last year and has formulated the directions and parameters for establishing the new medical school. The 10 key parameters for consideration consist of Innovative strategic positioning, Staffing, Campus and teaching facilities, Clinical exposure and learning resources, Curriculum structure and assessment methodologies, Student admission arrangements, Funding arrangements, Implementation plan, Teaching and learning quality, as well as Research excellence. The Task Group issued a letter of invitation in December last year to local universities interested in establishing the new medical school for submission of proposals by March 17 this year, and held a briefing session to introduce to universities the relevant arrangements.    

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: National Training Course for Talents Handling Foreign-related Arbitration (Hong Kong) organised by Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy and Ministry of Justice concludes

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The two-week National Training Course for Talents Handling Foreign-related Arbitration (Hong Kong), organised by the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy and the Ministry of Justice, concluded today (February 28).

         The Deputy Secretary for Justice, Dr Cheung Kwok-kwan, attended the closing ceremony this afternoon and expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Justice, the China University of Political Science and Law, and the China Legal Service (H.K.) Limited for their support and assistance that was crucial to the success of the training course. He also extended his gratitude to the participants for their active participation. He further mentioned that the Academy will continuously organise more tailor-made training programmes to give full play to Hong Kong’s unique strength in nurturing more foreign-related legal talent for the country.

         The two-week training course for more than 80 participants, comprising Mainland in-house counsel, experienced arbitrators, lawyers and arbitration practitioners, commenced last Monday (February 17). Speakers of the training course included members of the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Expert Committee and experienced local legal professionals.

         The Academy will capitalise on Hong Kong’s bilingual common law system and international status and continue to leverage the unique advantages of enjoying the strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world under the “one country, two systems” principle. Also, it will promote exchange of international legal talent and reinforce Hong Kong’s status as a centre for international legal and dispute resolution services in the Asia‑Pacific region, in order to develop Hong Kong as a capacity-building centre and play a better role in the construction of foreign-related rule of law of the country.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, UAE hold trade promotion event in Dubai

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

    DUBAI, Feb. 28 — The China-UAE Trade and Investment Forum, which also serves as a promotion event for the third China International Supply Chain Expo, was held in Dubai on Thursday, gathering over 120 business representatives and resulting in multiple trade and investment agreements.

    Ren Hongbin, chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, emphasized in his speech that the council is committed to enhancing bilateral economic and trade cooperation with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) business community under the Belt and Road Initiative.

    Ren highlighted key areas for collaboration, including trade, energy, infrastructure, new energy and the digital economy, while emphasizing the need to strengthen industrial and supply chain ties and expand multilateral business partnerships.

    Maria Kassem, assistant undersecretary at the UAE Ministry of Economy, said China remains the UAE’s largest trading partner, with deepening economic ties driving investment and industrial development. She expressed confidence in further expanding bilateral cooperation and strengthening China-UAE relations.

    During the event, the China International Exhibition Group promoted the upcoming third edition of the expo.

    Chinese Consul General to Dubai, Ou Boqian, noted that the expo is increasingly recognized as an important international public good, setting a new benchmark for global supply chain cooperation and trade development.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 7,000-year-old fire-making toolset unearthed in east China

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

    NANJING, Feb. 28 — Archaeologists have unearthed a fire-drilling toolset dating back about 7,000 years at an archaeological site in east China’s Jiangsu Province, marking it as the earliest known physical evidence of fire-making technology discovered in China to date.

    Gan Huiyuan, a researcher at the provincial institute of cultural relics and archaeology, who is leading the excavation at the Caoyangang site, said the newly unearthed toolset consists of a drill stick and a fireboard.

    The drill stick measures over 60 centimeters in length, while the fireboard is over 30 centimeters long. The brown artifact has over 10 deep black circular indentations on its surface, showing clear signs of scorching.

    “This toolset is not only the longest found at the site but also the most well-preserved fire-drilling equipment discovered to date,” Gan said, adding that since the excavation began, multiple fire-drilling tools have been discovered there.

    Additionally, a circular groove, likely used for tying a rope, was found on one end of the fireboard, suggesting it was designed for easy carrying or hanging.

    The Caoyangang site, spanning over 80,000 square meters, has unearthed a wealth of items beyond the fire-making tools. More than 3,000 items, including pottery, bone tools, wooden objects, animal remains from deer, pigs, cattle, dogs, and various birds, and aquatic plant remains, have been discovered at the site.

    These findings show a vivid picture of the daily lives and aesthetic sensibilities of the ancient people who once thrived in the region, archaeologists said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s AG600 amphibious aircraft completes all prior-certification flight tests

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

    BEIJING, Feb. 28 — China’s AG600 large amphibious aircraft on Friday completed all of its prior-certification flight test subjects, a key step toward achieving its airworthiness certification target, announced the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC).

    The Chinese independently-developed AG600 aircraft on Friday accomplished the compliance flight test subject of combustible liquid discharge at a civil aircraft flight test center in Pucheng County in northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, the AVIC said.

    Over the past two years, the AG600 aircraft conducted up to 2,014 flight movements totaling 3,560 flight hours for flight test missions prior to its airworthiness certification, said the developer.

    The AG600 aircraft traveled to multiple sites across the country to carry out its flight tests in order to secure special meteorological conditions for some flight tests.

    The AVIC said the flight tests were conducted in diversified scenarios, such as water surface, extreme cold, high temperature and humidity, crosswinds, and typical firefighting tasks to verify the aircraft’s operational capabilities in various special environments.

    China’s AG600 large amphibious aircraft family is being developed as vital advanced aeronautical equipment to strengthen the country’s emergency rescue and natural disaster prevention capabilities.

    The AG600 aircraft family is tailored to carry out rescue missions such as firefighting and maritime search and rescue in all types of terrain across the country.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s State Council completes handling of proposals, suggestions from national lawmakers, political advisors in 2024

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

    China’s State Council completes handling of proposals, suggestions from national lawmakers, political advisors in 2024

    BEIJING, Feb. 28 — Government departments under China’s State Council have completed the handling of 13,596 suggestions and proposals submitted by national lawmakers and political advisors during the 2024 annual sessions of the country’s national legislature and national political advisory body.

    At a press briefing on Friday, Xing Huina, a spokesperson for the State Council Information Office, said that the government departments processed 8,783 suggestions from deputies to the National People’s Congress and 4,813 proposals from members of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, all of which have been completed.

    Xing said that over 2,000 new policy measures have been introduced based on more than 5,000 suggestions and proposals. Notably, these initiatives have contributed to high-quality economic development, the deepening of reforms across all fronts, the advancement of science and education, rural revitalization and the improvement of public well-being.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Over 300 firms sign up for China’s supply chain expo

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

    BEIJING, Feb. 28 — More than 300 domestic and foreign companies have signed up for the third China International Supply Chain Expo, China’s trade promotion body announced on Friday.

    The expo kicked off its global roadshows in January and has so far hosted promotional events and roadshows in 12 countries and regions, including Vietnam, Switzerland, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates, Yang Fan, spokesperson with the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), told a press conference.

    Foreign enterprises and institutions have demonstrated great enthusiasm for participating in and visiting the expo, Yang said, anticipating an increase in attendance this year, particularly from overseas groups and businesses, for on-site visits and exchanges.

    The expo recorded more than 200,000 visits last year, CCPIT data showed.

    This year’s expo, slated to be held in Beijing from July 16 to 20, will cover a total exhibition area of 120,000 square meters.

    As the world’s first national-level exhibition focusing on supply chains, the China International Supply Chain Expo is an internationally shared public product. First held in 2023, the expo has contributed to building more secure, stable, open and inclusive global industrial and supply chains, according to the CCPIT.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi’s article on properly handling key relationships in economic work to be published

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

    Xi’s article on properly handling key relationships in economic work to be published

    BEIJING, Feb. 28 — An article by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, on properly handling several key relationships in economic work will be published on Saturday.

    The article by Xi, also Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, will be published in this year’s fifth issue of Qiushi Journal, the flagship magazine of the CPC Central Committee.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Huawei Named a Customers’ Choice in Gartner® Peer Insights™ Voice of the Customer for Primary Storage Four Times Feb 28, 2025

    Source: Huawei

    Headline: Huawei Named a Customers’ Choice in Gartner® Peer Insights Voice of the Customer for Primary Storage Four Times
    Feb 28, 2025

    [Shenzhen, China, February 27, 2025] With a 100% willingness to recommend rating and a full score of 5.0 based on 227 reviews as of December 2024, Huawei was named a Customers’ Choice for the fourth time in 2025 Gartner® Peer Insights Voice of the Customer for Primary Storage Platforms.
    Huawei named a Customers’ Choice in Gartner® Peer Insights four times

    Gartner Peer Insights is a free peer review and ratings platform designed for enterprise software and services decision makers. Reviews are organized by products in live markets that align to Gartner research markets, defined as Magic Quadrant or Market Guide–defined markets, or GPI-defined markets that are opened at the discretion of the GPI team and do not require research published to open the space on Peer Insights. And the “Voice of the Customer” is a document that applies a methodology to aggregated Gartner Peer Insights’ reviews in a market to provide an overall perspective for IT decision makers.
    By December 2024, Huawei OceanStor Dorado All-Flash Storage had been reviewed by hundreds of customers worldwide in various regions covering industries in a wide range of economic sectors, such as finance, manufacturing, and telecommunications, among others.
    Huawei OceanStor Dorado All-Flash Storage is deployed at customers sites in over 150 countries and regions including Latin America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, where it provides reliable services in sectors such as finance, telecommunications, government, and public utilities.
    “We appreciate our global customers for their positive feedback and strong recommendations for Huawei’s primary storage. Being named a Customers’ Choice four times is the highest form of recognition we can receive from our customers and a driving force for our continuous improvement,” remarked Huang Tao, President of Huawei Flash Storage Domain. “In our commitment to innovation, we will continue investing in storage performance, reliability, usability, and management efficiency. Our goal is to provide an exceptional data service experience for our customers and become the preferred choice for data infrastructure in every field,” added Huang.
    To learn more about Huawei Data Storage products and solutions, please visit the Huawei Data Storage official website: https://e.huawei.com/en/products/storage

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Huawei Named a Customers’ Choice in Gartner® Peer Insights™ Voice of the Customer for Primary Storage Four Times

    Source: Huawei

    Headline: Huawei Named a Customers’ Choice in Gartner® Peer Insights Voice of the Customer for Primary Storage Four Times

    [Shenzhen, China, February 27, 2025] With a 100% willingness to recommend rating and a full score of 5.0 based on 227 reviews as of December 2024, Huawei was named a Customers’ Choice for the fourth time in 2025 Gartner® Peer Insights Voice of the Customer for Primary Storage Platforms.
    Huawei named a Customers’ Choice in Gartner® Peer Insights four times

    Gartner Peer Insights is a free peer review and ratings platform designed for enterprise software and services decision makers. Reviews are organized by products in live markets that align to Gartner research markets, defined as Magic Quadrant or Market Guide–defined markets, or GPI-defined markets that are opened at the discretion of the GPI team and do not require research published to open the space on Peer Insights. And the “Voice of the Customer” is a document that applies a methodology to aggregated Gartner Peer Insights’ reviews in a market to provide an overall perspective for IT decision makers.
    By December 2024, Huawei OceanStor Dorado All-Flash Storage had been reviewed by hundreds of customers worldwide in various regions covering industries in a wide range of economic sectors, such as finance, manufacturing, and telecommunications, among others.
    Huawei OceanStor Dorado All-Flash Storage is deployed at customers sites in over 150 countries and regions including Latin America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, where it provides reliable services in sectors such as finance, telecommunications, government, and public utilities.
    “We appreciate our global customers for their positive feedback and strong recommendations for Huawei’s primary storage. Being named a Customers’ Choice four times is the highest form of recognition we can receive from our customers and a driving force for our continuous improvement,” remarked Huang Tao, President of Huawei Flash Storage Domain. “In our commitment to innovation, we will continue investing in storage performance, reliability, usability, and management efficiency. Our goal is to provide an exceptional data service experience for our customers and become the preferred choice for data infrastructure in every field,” added Huang.
    To learn more about Huawei Data Storage products and solutions, please visit the Huawei Data Storage official website: https://e.huawei.com/en/products/storage

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI China: China highlights literary gems at Istanbul Publishing Fellowship

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    China underscored its growing influence in global publishing as the “focus country” at the 10th Istanbul Publishing Fellowship this week, with its delegation forging international partnerships and spotlighting the nation’s literary heritage.

    Six Chinese publishing houses participated in the event, which drew over 370 publishers from 75 countries, including 120 from Türkiye, organizers said.

    Mingzhou Zhang, president of the nonprofit Lifetree Culture Promotion Center, noted robust demand for Chinese children’s books, particularly from publishers in Türkiye, Canada, Ethiopia, and Lebanon. “We’ve received significant interest in copyright acquisitions,” Zhang told Xinhua, highlighting China’s expanding cultural reach.

    Notable titles included the dual-sided picture book I Love Mom, I Love Dad by educator Zhu Yongxin and illustrator Yu Rong, which explores familial bonds through separate narratives on maternal and paternal love.

    A Chinese adaptation of A Hope More Powerful Than the Sea — UN official Melissa Fleming’s account of Syrian refugee Doaa Al-Zamel’s survival after a 2014 shipwreck — garnered attention for its reimagining as a children’s picture book. Told from the perspective of an infant rescued in the tragedy, the adaptation has drawn interest from Canadian and Ethiopian publishers and will feature at the Beijing International Book Fair, where Fleming and Al-Zamel are slated to appear.

    Shireen Kreidieh Hasbini, general manager of Lebanon’s Asala Publishers, praised China’s literary diversity, calling its focus country designation “long overdue.”

    Turkish author and Sinology scholar Giray Fidan, who recently translated the 18th-century classic The Dream of the Red Chamber into Turkish, emphasized China’s pivotal role in global publishing. “China’s market is indispensable, and collaborations will only deepen,” he said.

    The fellowship, aimed at fostering cross-cultural dialogue, continues through the week with rights negotiations and panels on emerging publishing trends. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Ancient Chinese bronzes on display in New York

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    A comprehensive collection of Chinese bronzes from the 12th to 19th centuries will be on display in The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) starting Friday for a period of seven months.

    Co-organized by The Met and the Shanghai Museum, the exhibition will showcase around 100 collections from The Met and nearly 100 loans from major institutions in China, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Germany, France, and Britain.

    Titled Recasting the Past: The Art of Chinese Bronzes, 1100-1900, the exhibition aims to be the most comprehensive study of Chinese bronzes during this period.

    Featured in the exhibition are around 60 loans from eight institutions in China, including major works such as a monumental 12th-century bell with imperial procession from the Liaoning Provincial Museum, documented ritual bronzes for Confucian temples from the Shanghai Museum, and luxury archaistic vessels made in the 18th-century imperial workshop from the Palace Museum in Beijing, according to a release by The Met.

    “While bronze as an art form has long held a significant role throughout China’s history, this exhibition explores an often-overlooked time period when a resurgence of craftsmanship and artistic achievements revitalized the medium,” said Max Hollein, director and chief executive officer of The Met.

    “Bringing together major loans from institutions in China alongside works from The Met collection, this exhibition offers viewers an important opportunity to better understand the lasting aesthetic and cultural impact of bronze objects,” said Hollein.

    The exhibition includes five thematic and chronological sections that explicate over 200 works of art — an array of bronze vessels complemented by a selection of paintings, ceramics, jades, and other media.

    “This exhibition attempts a long-overdue reevaluation of later Chinese bronzes by seeking to establish a reliable chronology of this art form across the last millennium of Chinese history. The exhibition will also distinguish outstanding works from lesser examples based on their artistic and cultural merits,” said Lu Pengliang, curator of Chinese Art at The Met.

    The cooperation and partnership among institutions from different countries also allows antiques with close ties to appear together to give people a more holistic view.

    The Shanghai Museum’s “Lady reclining over an incense cage,” a painting by Chen Hongshou in the Ming dynasty, demonstrates people’s elegant life in the mid-17th century and how an incense burner in the form of a duck was used, said Lu.

    Lu put a bronze incense burner of this kind from The Met together with the painting.

    Lu also discovered a Daoist ritual cauldron from the Cernuschi Museum (Museum of the Asian arts of Paris) and a Daoist ritual vessel from the Saint Louis Art Museum, which share the same mark and are believed to be from the same user in Qing Dynasty.

    “Our studies show that the two items must once belong to the same person and they have specific functions in Daoism,” Lu told Xinhua.

    It’s interesting to put them together in the exhibition and the two items also would be displayed in Shanghai later this year, said Lu.

    “This whole project is a project of partnership, of friendship, of collegiality, of an ability (on) what we can achieve when you do something together,” said Hollein at a press preview of the exhibition on Thursday.

    “This exhibition marks another milestone in the collaboration between our two museums. I am also very pleased to share that this is an exchange exhibition, which will meet Chinese audiences at the Shanghai Museum in November this year,” said Chu Xiaobo, director of the Shanghai Museum.

    The exhibition will be open to the public in New York from Feb. 28 to Sept. 28, 2025 and the Shanghai Museum will host the exhibition from Nov. 12 to March 16, 2026.

    In today’s world, dialogue and mutual trust are more precious than ever, where cultural exchanges play an irreplaceable role, said Chu, who noted that museums are the most inclusive and diverse platforms for cultural exchanges.

    “We look forward to deepening partnerships, expanding collaborations, fostering friendships, and strengthening our shared commitment with global colleagues, to preserving and celebrating the beauty of human civilizations,” said Chu at the press preview of the exhibition. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Multiplay service revenue in China to maintain steady CAGR of 1.2% during 2024-2029, forecasts GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Multiplay service revenue in China to maintain steady CAGR of 1.2% during 2024-2029, forecasts GlobalData

    Posted in Technology

    Multiplay service revenue in China is expected to grow at a steady compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.2% from $179.8 billion in 2024 to $190.4 billion in 2029. This growth is driven by increasing adoption of tripleplay and quadplay service bundles. As more households subscribe to multiplay services, operators, particularly China Mobile, are focusing on enhancing service offerings and reducing churn to expand their market share, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s research reveals that the total multiplay household subscriptions will increase from 491.1 million in 2024 to 514.7 million in 2029, primarily led by growing adoption of triple-play and quad-play service bundles.

    Well-established fixed network infrastructure and relatively high fixed broadband household penetration in the country, allow telcos to promote multiplay service bundles built around high-speed internet services.

    Sarwat Zeeshan, Telecom Analyst at GlobalData, says: “While doubleplay service plans will account for a large share of multiplay households in China during the forecast period, its household subscriber volume will continue to decline through the forecast period. On the other hand, tripleplay and quadplay services’ share of total multiplay households will continue to grow through 2029.

    The average monthly household spend on the overall multiplay bundles will continue to decline over the next few years, weighed down by the decline in doubleplay and tripleplay ARPUs. The average monthly household spend on quadplay bundles, however, will increase from $45.98 in 2024 to $55.54 in 2029, owing to the growth in fixed mobile convergence household penetration, which will increase significantly from 19% in 2024 to 48% in 2029.

    China Mobile will lead the multiplay market in terms of household subscriptions through to 2029. The operator is leveraging its fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) networks to accelerate multiplay services adoption, with focus on reducing churn and increasing revenue-generating units (RGUs).

    Zeeshan concludes: “As China’s multiplay market evolves, the rise of tripleplay and quadplay bundles will be key to driving long-term growth. The increasing adoption of fixed mobile convergence will help push average spending on quadplay services, despite the decline in doubleplay plans. China Mobile’s focus on expanding its FTTH network will be crucial in capturing a larger share of this growing market while ensuring customer loyalty and reducing churn.”

    MIL OSI Economics –