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Category: China

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Bus parade to engage with public to witness bus development and celebrate National Day

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Bus parade to engage with public to witness bus development and celebrate National Day
    Bus parade to engage with public to witness bus development and celebrate National Day
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         The Transport Department (TD) today (October 10) announced the route and details of the Bus Parade for Celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China.      The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will hold the bus parade amid the National Day celebrations on October 19, engaging with the public to witness the development of bus services to celebrate the occasion. Co-organising the event, the franchised bus operators will present a total of eight retired and in-service buses with an open-top bus themed on the 75th National Day to lead the parade.      Starting at around 11am on that day, the parade buses will depart from Victoria Park in Causeway Bay for Man Kwong Street via Gordon Road, King’s Road, Causeway Road, Hennessy Road, Fleming Road and Lung Wo Road (parade route map in Annex). The route is about 6 kilometres long and will take about 30 minutes to complete. Members of the public can enjoy the parade along the route and take photos at the best viewing locations, such as Hennessy Road near Jardine’s Bazaar in Causeway Bay, Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai, and the destination at Central Pier, to share in the joy of National Day.      During the parade, the Police will lead the convoy and implement appropriate traffic arrangements and crowd safety management measures subject to on-site traffic and crowd conditions. The TD appeals the public and motorists to follow instructions of the Police and to keep in view the latest traffic news.      For safety reasons, in case of adverse weather, the bus parade will be cancelled. The public should refer to the TD’s website (www.td.gov.hk) and Agent T Facebook page (www.facebook.com/AgentT.hk) for the latest updates.

     
    Ends/Thursday, October 10, 2024Issued at HKT 12:44

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai delivers 2024 National Day Address

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    President Lai delivers 2024 National Day Address
    2024-10-10

    President Lai Ching-te on the morning of October 10 attended the ROC’s 113th Double Tenth National Day Celebration in the plaza fronting the Presidential Office Building, and delivered an address titled “ Taiwan Together for Our Shared Dream.”
    A translation of the president’s address follows:
    National Day Celebration Chairperson Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜), Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao, Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰), Prime Minister of Tuvalu Feleti Teo and Madame Tausaga Teo, heads of delegations from diplomatic allies and friendly nations, distinguished guests from home and abroad, and my fellow citizens here in person and watching on TV or online: Good morning.
    Today, we gather together to celebrate the birthday of the Republic of China, praise the beautiful Taiwan of today, and usher in the better Taiwan for tomorrow.
    One hundred and thirteen years ago, a group of people full of ideals and aspirations rose in revolt and overthrew the imperial regime. Their dream was to establish a democratic republic of the people, to be governed by the people and for the people. Their ideal was to create a nation of freedom, equality, and benevolence. However, the dream of democracy was engulfed in the raging flames of war. The ideal of freedom had for long eroded under authoritarian rule.
    But we will never forget the Battle of Guningtou 75 years ago, or the August 23 Artillery Battle 66 years ago. Though we arrived on this land at different times and belonged to different communities, we defended Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu. We defended the Republic of China.
    We will never forget the Kaohsiung Incident 45 years ago, or wave after wave of democracy movements. Again and again, people who carried the dream of democracy and the ideal of freedom, through valiant sacrifice and devotion, gave their lives to open the door to democracy. Over more than a century, the people’s desire to master their own destiny has finally been fulfilled.
    My fellow citizens, though the Republic of China was driven out of the international community, the people of Taiwan have never exiled themselves. On this land, the people of Taiwan toil and labor, but when our friends face natural disasters or an unprecedented pandemic, we do not hesitate to extend a helping hand. “Taiwan Can Help” is not just a slogan. It is a movement by the people of Taiwan to cherish peace and do good for others.
    In the past, our people, going out into the world equipped with only a briefcase, sparked Taiwan’s economic achievements. Now, Taiwan’s chip technology drives the whole world, and has become a global force for prosperity and development.
    The people of Taiwan are diverse, and they are fearless. Our own Nymphia Wind is a queen on the world stage. The people of Taiwan are truly courageous. Lin Yu-ting (林郁婷), a daughter of Taiwan, is a queen of the boxing world. At 17 years old, Taiwan’s own Tsai Yun-rong (蔡昀融) put steady hands to work and won first place for woodwork in a global skills competition. Chen Sz-yuan (陳思源), at 20, took first for refrigeration and air conditioning, using the skills passed down by his father. A new generation of “Made in Taiwan” youth is putting a new shine on an old label.
    I want to thank generation after generation of fellow citizens for coming together and staying together through thick and thin. The Republic of China has already put down roots in Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu. And the Republic of China and the People’s Republic of China are not subordinate to each other. On this land, democracy and freedom are growing and thriving. The People’s Republic of China has no right to represent Taiwan. The 23 million people of Taiwan, now more than ever, must reach out our branches to embrace the future. My fellow citizens, we have overcome challenge after challenge. All along, the Republic of China has shown steadfast resolve; and all along, the people of Taiwan have shown unwavering tenacity.
    We fully understand that our views are not all the same, but we have always been willing to accept one another. We fully understand that we have differences in opinion, but we have always been willing to keep moving forward hand in hand. This is how the Republic of China Taiwan became what it is today.
    As president, my mission is to ensure that our nation endures and progresses, and to unite the 23 million people of Taiwan. I will also uphold the commitment to resist annexation or encroachment upon our sovereignty.
    It is also my mission to safeguard the lives and property of the public, firmly carry out our Four Pillars of Peace action plan, strengthen national defense, stand side by side with democratic countries, jointly demonstrate the strength of deterrence, and ensure peace through strength, so that all generations can lead good lives.
    All the more, my mission is to care for the lives and livelihoods of the 23 million people of Taiwan, actively develop our economy, and expand investment in social care. I must also ensure that the fruits of our economic growth can be enjoyed by all our people.
    However, Taiwan faces relentless challenges, and the world’s challenges are just as much our own. The world must achieve sustainable development as we grapple with global climate change. Sudden outbreaks of infectious diseases impact human lives and health around the globe. And expanding authoritarianism is posing a host of challenges to the rules-based international order, threatening our hard-won free and democratic way of life.
    For these reasons, I have established three committees at the Presidential Office: the National Climate Change Committee, the Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee, and the Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee. These committees are interrelated, and they are closely connected by the theme of national resilience. We intend to build up a more resilient Taiwan, proactively deal with challenges, and bring Taiwan into deeper cooperation with the international community.
    We must strengthen Taiwan’s ability to adapt to the risks associated with extreme weather, continue promoting our second energy transition, and ensure a stable power supply. We must steadily advance toward our goal of net-zero transition by 2050 through the development of more forms of green energy, deep energy saving, and advanced energy storage.
    In terms of health, we must effectively fight the spread of global infectious diseases, and raise the population’s average life expectancy while reducing time spent living with illness or disability. We must achieve health equality so that people are healthy, the nation is stronger, and so that the world embraces Taiwan.
    Finally, we must strengthen resilience throughout Taiwan in national defense, economic livelihoods, disaster prevention, and democracy. As the people of Taiwan become more united, our nation grows more stable. As our society becomes better prepared, our nation grows more secure, and there is also greater peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
    Taiwan is resolved in our commitment to upholding peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and achieving global security and prosperity. We are willing to work with China on addressing climate change, combatting infectious diseases, and maintaining regional security to pursue peace and mutual prosperity for the well-being of the people on the two sides of the Taiwan Strait.
    For a long time now, countries around the world have supported China, invested in China, and assisted China in joining the World Trade Organization, thereby promoting China’s economic development and enhancing its national strength. This was done out of the hope that China would join the rest of the world in making global contributions, that internally it would place importance on the livelihoods of the people, and that externally it would maintain peace.
    As we stand here today, international tensions are on the rise, and each day countless innocents are suffering injuries or losing their lives in conflict. We hope that China will live up to the expectations of the international community, that it will apply its influence and work with other countries toward ending Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and conflicts in the Middle East. And we hope that it will take up its international responsibilities and, along with Taiwan, contribute to the peace, security, and prosperity of the region and the globe.
    In an era when the international landscape is becoming increasingly chaotic, Taiwan will become more calm, more confident, and stronger; it will become a force for regional peace, stability, and prosperity. I believe that a stronger democratic Taiwan is not only the ideal of our 23 million people, but also the expectation of the international community.
    We will continue to make Taiwan stronger and promote cross-sector economic development.
    Taiwan’s economic strength is no “miracle”; it is the result of the joint efforts of all the people of Taiwan. We must strive for an innovative economy, a balanced Taiwan, and inclusive growth; we must stay on top of changes in global trends, and continue to remain a key player in supply chains for global democracies.
    Going forward, in addition to our 5+2 innovative industries plan and Six Core Strategic Industries policy, we will more vigorously develop Taiwan’s Five Trusted Industry Sectors, namely semiconductors, AI, military, security and surveillance, and next-generation communications, and help expand their global presence. We will also promote the transformation and development of medium, small, and micro enterprises and help them develop their international markets.
    My fellow citizens, we will continue working to achieve a Taiwan that is balanced across all its regions.
    In the central government’s proposed general budget plan for next year, general grants for local governments and general centrally funded tax revenues increased significantly, by NT$89.5 billion, reaching a total of NT$724.1 billion, a record high. And our budget for flood control will be raised by NT$15.9 billion from this year, bringing the total to NT$55.1 billion. This will help municipalities across the country in addressing the challenges of extreme weather. 
    We will also expedite improvements to the safety of our national road network and create a human-friendly transportation environment. Furthermore, we will improve our mass rapid transit network and connect the greater Taipei area comprising Taipei, New Taipei, Keelung, and Taoyuan. We will roll out the new Silicon Valley plan for Taoyuan, Hsinchu, and Miaoli to form a central technology cluster connecting the north with the south and launch the Smart Technology Southern Industrial Ecosystem Development Plan. We will accelerate promotion of safety in our eastern transportation network so that locals can go home on safer roads. We will also enhance basic infrastructure in the outlying island areas to raise the quality of life for locals and increase their capacity for tourism.
    My fellow citizens, we must all the more ensure the well-being of our people across the generations.
    To our young parents, we will continue to promote version 2.0 of our national childcare policy for ages 0–6. We are going even further by already increasing childcare subsidies, and we will also enhance the quality of preschool services. Children are the future of our country, and the government has the responsibility to help take care of them.
    To our young students, we will continue to provide free tuition for students of high schools and vocational high schools, and we will also continue to subsidize tuition for students of private junior colleges, colleges, and universities. And we are taking that a step further by establishing the Ten-Billion-Dollar Youth Overseas Dream Fund. Young people have dreams, and the government has the responsibility to help youth realize those dreams.
    To our young adults and those in the prime of life, next year, the minimum wage will once again be raised, and the number of rent-subsidized housing units will be increased. We will expand investment in society and provide more support across life, work, housing, and health, and support for the young and old. Raising a family is hard work, and the government has a responsibility to help lighten the load.
    To our senior citizens all around Taiwan, next year, Taiwan will become a “super-aged society.” In advance, we will launch our Long-term Care 3.0 Plan and gradually implement the 888 Program for the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases.
    We will also establish a NT$10 billion fund for new cancer drugs and advance the Healthy Taiwan Cultivation Plan. We will build a stronger social safety net and provide enhanced care for the disadvantaged. And we will bring mental health support to people of all ages, including the young and middle-aged, to truly achieve care for all people of all ages throughout the whole of our society.
    I am deeply aware that what everyone cares about the most is the pressure of high housing prices, and that what they most detest is rampant fraud. I give the people my promise that our administration will not shirk these issues; even if it offends certain groups, we will address them no matter the price.
    We will redouble our efforts to combat fraud and fight housing speculation. We will expand care for renters and strike a balance with the needs of people looking to change homes. We will walk together, continuing down the path toward achieving housing justice.
    We have with us today former President Chen Shui-bian, former President Tsai Ing-wen, and leaders from different political parties. I want to thank all of you for attending. Your presence represents the strength our nation has built up over generations, as well as the values and significance of Taiwan’s diverse democracy.
    Our nation must become more united, and our society must grow more stable. I also want to thank Legislative Yuan President Han and Premier Cho for recently initiating cooperation among the ruling and opposition parties to facilitate discussion among the ruling and opposition party caucuses.
    In democratic countries, political parties internally promote the nation’s progress through competition, and externally they unite to work toward achieving national interests. No matter our political party, no matter our political stances, national interests come before the interests of parties, and the interests of parties can never take precedence over the interests of the people.
    And this is precisely the spirit upheld by those who sacrificed, who gave everything they had, in order to establish the Republic of China. This is the lesson we take from our predecessors who, generation upon generation, overcame authoritarianism, and sacrificed and devoted themselves to the pursuit of democracy. That is precisely why, regardless of party affiliation or regardless of our differences, we are gathered here today.
    Regardless of what name we choose to call our nation – the Republic of China; Taiwan; or the Republic of China Taiwan – we must all share common convictions: Our determination to defend our national sovereignty remains unchanged. Our efforts to maintain the status quo of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait remain unchanged. Our commitment to hoping for parity and dignity, and healthy and orderly dialogue and exchanges between the two sides of the strait remains unchanged. Our determination, from one generation to the next, to protect our free and democratic way of life remains unchanged.
    I believe this is the dream that Taiwan’s 23 million people all share; it is also the shared ideal that Taiwanese society and the international community hold. The stronger the commitment of the Taiwanese people, the greater the tenacity of democracy around the world. The greater the tenacity of the Taiwanese people, the stronger the commitment of democracy around the world.
    Let’s keep going, Republic of China! Let’s keep going, Taiwan! Regardless of our differences, let’s keep going forward! Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Panasonic Verifies that nanoe(TM) (Hydroxyl Radicals Contained in Water) Technology Inhibits Hazardous Substances Contained in Haze Caused by Air Pollution in Southeast Asia

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Panasonic Verifies that nanoe(TM) (Hydroxyl Radicals Contained in Water) Technology Inhibits Hazardous Substances Contained in Haze Caused by Air Pollution in Southeast Asia

    Osaka, Japan – Panasonic Corporation (https://www.panasonic.com/global/home.html) (hereinafter referred to as Panasonic) today announced that it has conducted joint research with the Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology (MJIIT), under the supervision of Professor Sheikh Ahmad Zaki, verifying that nanoe (hydroxyl radicals contained in water) technology inhibits up to 95% of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) contained in PM2.5, a component of smoke pollution (haze) that is worsening in Southeast Asia. In addition to the five types of PAHs already verified,*2 the inhibitory effects of nanoe (hydroxyl radicals contained in water) technology on three types of PAHs have been newly revealed.
    99% of the world’s population lives in areas that do not meet the World Health Organization’s (WHO) air quality guideline levels,*3 and the adverse health effects of air pollution have become a significant issue. In particular, urgent measures are needed to combat haze in Southeast Asian countries. Haze is caused by smoke pollution from large-scale slash-and-burn farming and forest fires in regions like Sumatra Island, and it contains hazardous substances known as PAHs. PAHs are difficult to decompose, making them prone to spread by wind, and it has been reported that they bioaccumulate in crops.*4Furthermore, numerous research findings indicate that certain PAHs can elevate the risk and incidence of adverse events, including reduced lung function, worsened asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer.*5 Note that this joint verification was intended to examine the effects of nanoe on chemical substances that cause these symptoms and does not guarantee effects on the symptoms themselves.
    Under the supervision of Professor Sheikh from MJIIT, the Company conducted tests by irradiating nanoe (hydroxyl radicals contained in water) particles on three types of PAHs (naphthalene, fluorene, and acenaphthene),*6 which account for large proportions in the mass of haze. As a result, inhibitory effects were verified for all three types. Note that these verification results are based on the test conditions described below and do not demonstrate the effectiveness in a real-world environment.

    Panasonic aims to contribute to society by providing safe and secure spaces, and will continue to evolve nanoe (hydroxyl radicals contained in water) technology and pursue its future potential.

    ■Key points of this verification

    Aims to verify the inhibitory effects of nanoe (hydroxyl radicals contained in water) on the three types of PAHs that account for particularly large mass ratios in haze.

    ■Comments of Professor Sheikh Ahmad Zaki from Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology*8

    Haze is a serious social issue in Southeast Asia. As human activities, which had slowed down during the COVID-19 pandemic, begin to pick up again, there is a risk that damage will worsen due to increased haze emissions. Haze contains various substances, and PAHs are considered highly hazardous to both humans and the environment. In this verification, we were able to demonstrate the effectiveness of nanoe (hydroxyl radicals contained in water) technology against the three types of PAHs that are commonly found in haze. Based on these verification results, nanoe  (hydroxyl radicals contained in water) technology is anticipated to be a promising solution for enhancing the living environment in Southeast Asia, which is suffered by haze.

    ■Principle of nanoe (hydroxyl radicals contained in water) generation

    Figure 4 nanoe (hydroxyl radicals contained in water) generator

    nanoe  (hydroxyl radicals contained in water), which is approximately 5 to 20 nanometers in size and contains hydroxyl radicals, is generated by cooling the atomizing electrode with a Peltier element, creating water through the condensation of moisture in the air, and applying a high voltage between the atomizing electrode and the counter electrode (Figure 4).

    Notes:*1: The eight types of PAHs include benzo[a]pyrene, benz[a]anthracene, benzo[b]fluoranthene, indeno[1,2,3-cd]pyrene, and dibenz[a,h]anthracene, which were previously tested, along with naphthalene, fluorene, and acenaphthene, which were tested this time.*2: [Press release] “Nanoe” effectively breaks down PM2.5 components and inhibits growth of fungi attached to Yellow Sand (January 16, 2014)”Nanoe” effectively breaks down PM2.5 components and inhibits growth of fungi attached to Yellow Sand | Appliances | Products & Solutions | Feature Story | Panasonic Newsroom Global https://news.panasonic.com/global/stories/668*3: Reference: Ambient (outdoor) air pollution. WHO. 2024-09-13*4: Reference: WHO Regional Office for Europe, “Human health effects of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons as ambient air pollutants: report of the Working Group on Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons of the Joint Task Force on the Health Aspects of Air Pollution.”, 2021.*5: Reference: Nor Azura Sulong et al. “Distribution, sources and potential health risks of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in PM2.5 collected during different monsoon seasons and haze episode in Kuala Lumpur,” Chemospher, vol.219, pp. 1-14, 2019.*6: Reference: Jiraporn Chomanee et al. “Physicochemical and toxicological characteristics of nanoparticles in aerosols in southern Thailand during recent haze episodes in lower southeast Asia,” Journal of environmental sciences, vol.94, pp. 72-80, 2020.*7: Calculated by Panasonic*8: Panasonic requested the Professor to provide comments on nanoe (hydroxyl radicals contained in water), which were posted after editing.

    Inquiries:

    Living Appliances and Solutions Company, Panasonic CorporationDevices Products Business Unit, Beauty and Personal Care Business DivisionTelephone: +81-(0)749-27-0485 (available 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays)

    About Panasonic Corporation
    Panasonic Corporation offers products and services for a variety of living environments, ranging from homes to stores to offices and cities. There are five businesses at the core of Panasonic Corporation: Living Appliances and Solutions Company, Heating & Ventilation A/C Company, Cold Chain Solutions Company, Electric Works Company and China and Northeast Asia Company. The operating company reported consolidated net sales of 3,494.4 billion yen for the year ended March 31, 2024. Panasonic Corporation is committed to fulfilling the mission of Life Tech & Ideas: For the wellbeing of people, society and the planet, and embraces the vision of becoming the best partner of your life with human-centric technology and innovation. Learn more about Panasonic: https://www.panasonic.com/global/about/

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Space isn’t all about the ‘race’ – rival superpowers must work together for a better future

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Art Cotterell, Research Associate, School of Regulation and Global Governance, Australian National University

    Artist’s concept of the docked Apollo and Soyuz in 1975. David Meltzer/NASA

    In recent years, a new “space race” has intensified between the United States and China. At a campaign rally last weekend, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump invoked this rivalry when declaring the US will “lead the world in space”, echoing Democratic counterpart Vice President Kamala Harris.

    Meanwhile, the president of China, Xi Jinping, has said becoming “a space power is our eternal dream”.

    But what is this latest “race” about, and are there pathways to common ground? History suggests these do exist. As a space governance specialist, I argue our future depends on it.

    The ‘race’ to the Moon

    Lunar missions have become synonymous with a “space race”. During the Cold War, the US and Soviet Union’s competition to achieve that first “one small step” on the Moon was a symbolic and strategic quest for political, technological, military and ideological dominance on Earth.

    Geopolitical tensions are again moving off-Earth. The US and China are leading separate missions which aim to return humans to the Moon. One goal is to further scientific research. But space mining and economic expansionism are also driving these efforts.

    This new “race” may give rise to new conflicts, especially over prime landing sites and valuable and scarce resources speculated to be located on the lunar south pole.

    Mining water ice could produce oxygen, drinking water and rocket fuel – all vital for sustaining lunar exploration and beyond. The Moon may also contain rare earth metals used in everyday electronics, and a rare non-radioactive isotope, helium-3, for nuclear power.

    Space mining could lead to a concerning “lunar gold rush” or trade war with nations and private actors in space. Resources mined off-Earth are predicted to be worth trillions of dollars.

    The US has a longer history of demonstrated space-faring capabilities, investments and partnerships. Yet China is catching up. While the US made its first uncrewed landing on the lunar south pole this year, China has made several landings. In June this year, China’s Chang’e 6 mission returned with the first rock and soil samples from this sought-after region of the Moon.

    International Space Station’s Expedition 72 crew pose for a portrait on September 29 2024. For the past two decades, the ISS has been a great example of space collaboration.
    NASA Johnson

    How are nations working together on space?

    Both superpowers have invited other nations to join them in realising their lunar visions. This week the Dominican Republic became the 44th signatory to the US-led NASA Artemis Accords.

    Thirteen other nations are participating in the China-led International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) in collaboration with Russia. Senegal joined last month.

    With no membership overlap between the two initiatives, new “space blocs” are emerging, reflective of global power dynamics.

    The Artemis Accords and ILRS are currently not legally binding, but they will be influential in shaping space governance in the 21st century. This is because treaty-making in the United Nations’ Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS, established in 1959) hasn’t kept pace with the latest developments and actors in space.

    Nor has space governance adequately engaged with growing ethical questions, including on space colonisation and light pollution caused by satellites.

    We’re at a critical juncture. It’s important the emergence of these new “space blocs” doesn’t escalate into a contest over whose space governance approach prevails. Not only could this increase the risk of conflict on the lunar surface itself, but it could even fuel geopolitical instability and military competition on Earth.

    History shows we can work together

    Space has fostered cooperation even between superpower rivals during tense geopolitical times. During the Cold War, the US and Soviet Union cooperated on space governance, laws, science and technologies. This built mutual trust and eased tensions.

    Within COPUOS, nations worked together to agree on what became the first of multiple foundational space law treaties, the Outer Space Treaty in 1967. It prohibits placing nuclear weapons in space and national appropriation claims over celestial bodies like the Moon.

    A joint Moon landing never eventuated. But in 1975, the Apollo and Soyuz spacecrafts docked while in orbit. This marked the first international human spaceflight partnership, a historic feat made possible thanks to technical cooperation and diplomacy. COPUOS heralded this as inspiring ongoing cooperation.

    More recently, NASA’s International Space Station (ISS) has been an orbiting testament to coexistence. Astronauts from the US, Russia and other partners have conducted over 3,000 experiments in microgravity.

    At the recent UN Summit of the Future, video messages from the ISS and China’s Tiangong space station astronauts reaffirmed the importance of international cooperation and the peaceful uses of space.

    From rhetoric to practice

    Humanity has much to lose if global superpowers don’t cooperate on space governance. There is a real and growing risk of exporting and exacerbating our earthly conflicts in space. This will invariably increase tensions on Earth.

    The US and China need to explore opportunities to open dialogue between the Artemis Accords and ILRS. There are some similarities in their separate planned activities, governing principles and guidelines already.

    To make this happen, the US will need to revisit the 2011 Wolf Amendment, a law that restricts NASA from using its funding to cooperate with China, without congressional approval. But China has no equivalent and recently expressed its willingness to cooperate, including sharing its rock and soil samples.

    Sharing scientific information may help find initial common ground before further discussions on space governance. This could even move towards agreeing on landing sites or a lunar time zone. If a rescue mission is ever necessary on the Moon, having some compatible technology through interoperability would make it much easier.

    The US and China do actively engage in COPUOS, including in the working group on space resources. Yet treaty-making is often slow moving. This means greater opportunities for communication, consistency and certainty on space governance are imperative. This could even support multilateral efforts.

    Perhaps a joint lunar research mission between the US and China – in the spirit of the Apollo-Soyuz docking – can still happen in the future.

    In the meantime, the world needs to see space not only in terms of a “race”. It’s also an opportunity to improve international relations, benefiting our future humanity on Earth and, one day, beyond.

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

    – ref. Space isn’t all about the ‘race’ – rival superpowers must work together for a better future – https://theconversation.com/space-isnt-all-about-the-race-rival-superpowers-must-work-together-for-a-better-future-240543

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai receives congratulations from foreign guests attending 2024 National Day celebration

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    President Lai receives congratulations from foreign guests attending 2024 National Day celebration
    President Lai receives congratulations from foreign guests attending 2024 National Day celebration
    2024-10-10

    On the morning of October 10 at the Presidential Office Building, President Lai Ching-te and the First Lady, accompanied by Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao, received congratulations from members of the foreign diplomatic corps and foreign organizations stationed in Taiwan, as well as guests from around the world attending the 2024 National Day Celebration of the Republic of China.
    From 9:30 a.m. more than 140 foreign guests, including Prime Minister Feleti Teo of Tuvalu, who was accompanied by his wife, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources, Petroleum, and Mining Cordel Hyde of Belize, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Works, Land and Surveys and Physical Planning Montgomery Daniel of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Senate President Alvina Reynolds and Speaker Claudius Francis of Saint Lucia, and Minister of State Gustav Aitaro of the Republic of Palau, came forward in turn to offer congratulations to President Lai and Vice President Hsiao, who expressed their appreciation to them for attending the celebration. Secretary-General to the President Pan Men-an (潘孟安) and Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) were also in attendance.
    In addition to the delegation led by Prime Minister Teo and those from our other diplomatic allies, foreign guests who came to offer their congratulations included US Congresspersons Debbie Lesko, Andy Biggs, and Carol Miller, who was accompanied by her husband; a Japanese Diet congratulatory delegation: Japanese House of Councillors Members Santo Akiko, Yamamoto Junzo, Takinami Hirofumi, Umemura Mizuho, and Wada Masamune; Members of the Scottish Parliament Jamie Greene, Rhoda Grant, and Karen Adam; Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Ambassador Andrea Clare Bowman and other members of the diplomatic corps; representatives of foreign organizations stationed in Taiwan: American Institute in Taiwan Taipei Office Director Raymond Greene, who was accompanied by his wife, Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office Chief Representative Katayama Kazuyuki, who was accompanied by his wife, Head of the European Economic and Trade Office Lutz Guellner, who was accompanied by his wife, Singapore Trade Office in Taipei Trade Representative Yip Wei Kiat, Australian Office in Taipei Representative Robert Niel Fergusson, Canadian Trade Office in Taipei Executive Director James Stafford Nickel, who was accompanied by his wife, French Office in Taipei Director Franck Paris, German Institute Taipei Director General Jörg Wolfram Polster, who was accompanied by his wife, and British Office Taipei Representative John Dennis.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Expo to highlight cultural inheritance

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The eighth China Intangible Cultural Heritage Expo will open in Jinan, East China’s Shandong province during Oct 17-21.

    The expo, hosted by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and undertaken by the Shandong culture and tourism department and the Jinan government, will fully showcase the achievements of China’s intangible cultural heritage protection over the 20 years since it joined the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage.

    The expo will also present the active utilization and innovation of intangible cultural heritage in modern life, intergenerational inheritance of certain cultural items, and works by the younger generation of inheritors.

    Additionally, learning space and live broadcasting, as well as digital and AI-enabled experiences will be prepared to give the audience an immersion contact with intangible cultural heritage.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Miniseries brings story of Long March to young viewers

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    A time-warping miniseries shot into public view on social media over the recent National Day holiday — a tale depicting modern youth contributing to the remarkable Long March of 1934-36.

    The army of the Communist Party of China left its base in southeastern China to evade its foe, winding its way 12,500 kilometers to the north. The epic journey took two years but ultimately meant the army’s survival and victory for the Chinese nation.

    Now it has captured the hearts of the Chinese youth who wish they had been part of it. The miniseries — I Opened a Supermarket on the Long March — went viral on social media during the National Day holiday, capturing imaginations and rekindling the patriotic spirit.

    The five-episode series tells the time-traveling story of Su Meimei, who finds herself magically back in the Long March era with her supermarket. She uses a game-like “system” to complete tasks and earn rewards, providing food and supplies to Red Army soldiers who are facing severe shortages.

    Going back in time, combined with the historical theme of forming a nation, have resonated with a younger audience, many of whom fantasize about returning to revolutionary times to make a difference.

    Zhang Yihan, a 22-year-old viewer, commented on social media: “If only the Red Army had such a supermarket back then. We all wish we could have contributed something to those who fought for the revolution.”

    Related topics have been trending on Chinese social media, drawing tens of millions of views, such as “If I had a ton of penicillin during World War II, how could I support the revolution?” The drama brings such fantasies to life, exploring what one might do if it were possible to return to the era of the Long March.

    The drama found immediate success, reaching 10 million views within seven hours of its release. In 24 hours, the total view count had doubled to 20 million across multiple platforms.

    Unlike previous Long March-themed works, which often rely on grand storytelling, I Opened a Supermarket on the Long March focuses on personal stories and relatable characters.

    The series features three stories set in the magical supermarket, each inspired by real historical figures and events.

    Zhang was particularly moved by the moment when the soldiers left the safety of the supermarket to march through the snow. “The detailed and realistic plot resonated deeply with me,” he said.

    Yi Mingrui, a university student in Beijing, was struck by one character, a cook.

    Despite the cook following a strict revolutionary rule — “Do not take a single needle or piece of thread from the people” — Yi shared the cook’s love of noodles and ham sausages.

    “I felt a strong sense of connection,” he said. “Although the drama has its flaws, its vivid expressions of patriotism are truly moving. I hope to see more works featuring such real, vibrant characters.”

    Developed by Beijing Shiyue Media, the series is interwoven with elements of supermarket management, and what it manages to deliver to its audience is a fresh and captivating narrative.

    The series has already surpassed 100 million views and created 500 million discussion posts, news outlet ThePaper.cn reported.

    The story’s protagonist, Su Meimei, a modern university graduate, offers a rich tale from her unique perspective. The storyline not only highlights the courage and challenges of the soldiers but also makes history vivid and relatable through a contemporary lens.

    In discussions about the target for the series, executive producer Ling Ling emphasized the desire to resonate with a diverse young audience.

    Rather than creating a sense of detachment, the series — through meticulous character portrayals — breathes life into actual historical figures. Each character transcends being a mere symbol of bravery and sacrifice to become a whole, vibrant person laden with emotions and a sense of duty.

    As each of the 5-episode miniseries airs, increasing numbers of viewers have engaged in robust discussions to make their points and express their emotions — many on Douyin, Chinese version of TikTok. One college student said: “I feel like crying. It would be wonderful if those Long March soldiers could witness present-day China.”

    Middle-aged viewers contributed their perspectives as well, emphasizing the educational value of the series. One remarked: “It should be mandatory viewing in every school for our children. I want my kids to watch it.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese Culture Festival held in Chicago after 4-year hiatus

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The seventh Annual Chinese Culture Festival, co-hosted by Chicago Public Schools and Phoenix Tree Publishing, the North American subsidiary of Beijing Language and Culture University Press, took place at Whitney Young Magnet High School, Chicago, on Saturday.

    This event marked the festival’s return after a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Running from 10 am to 2 pm, it attracted over 1,300 participants, including students, parents, and teachers from more than 20 schools across the CPS.

    Notable attendees included Wang Baodong, consul general of Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Chicago, Karime Asaf, the chief officer of the Multilingual-Multicultural Education Office of CPS, and Rickey Harris, the principal of Whitney Young Magnet High School.

    In his remarks, Wang underscored the event’s role in enhancing mutual understanding between US and Chinese people, saying that cultural exchange is vital for fostering harmony, coexistence, and mutual development.

    Chicago Public Schools, the third-largest school district in the United States, has 13,737 students across 37 schools participating in the World Language Program to study Chinese, supported by over 50 Chinese language teachers.

    Jane Lu, the program’s coordinator, said that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the annual Chinese Culture Festival had been on hiatus for four years. This year, it has been finally brought back, offering students and their families an opportunity to delve into Chinese culture, she said.

    The festival featured a wide array of activities, including lion dances, martial arts demonstrations, and various other artistic performances. More than 20 interactive booths showcased aspects of Chinese culture such as calligraphy, Peking Opera masks, tai chi, and Chinese cuisine, providing attendees with a rich and immersive cultural experience.

    Since its founding in 2011, Phoenix Tree Publishing has been supporting Chinese language and cultural education in K-12 schools across North America. Alongside providing professional international Chinese educational resources, the publishing house actively promotes cultural exchanges between Chinese and American students.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China launches first monetary policy tool

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    China’s central bank announced Thursday that it has decided to set up Securities, Funds and Insurance companies Swap Facility (SFISF), with the initial scale of 500 billion yuan (about 71 billion U.S. dollars) for “the healthy and stable development of the capital market.”

    The SFISF, which is the first monetary policy tool created by China to support the capital market, will allow eligible securities, funds and insurance companies to use their assets including bonds, stock ETFs and holdings in constituents of the CSI 300 Index as collateral in exchange for highly liquid assets such as treasury bonds and central bank bills, the People’s Bank of China said in a statement.

    The scale of the SFISF could be expanded depending on the development of the situation, according to the central bank.

    Starting Thursday, applications from eligible securities, funds and insurance companies will be accepted.

    As a long-term institutional arrangement, the SFISF is conducive to enhancing the resilience of China’s capital market and curbing herd behavior and other pro-cyclical actions, thus helping maintain market stability, authoritative sources were quoted by Xinhua’s financial newspaper, China Securities Journal, as saying.

    The new tool can also boost the participation of non-bank institutions, improve the transmission efficiency of monetary policy in the capital market, and contribute to the balanced development of bond, stock and other markets, according to the sources.

    The SFISF is a swap of assets and will not expand the scale of base currency issuance, the China Securities Journal report noted.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China launches nationwide sample survey of population changes

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

    BEIJING, Oct. 10 — China will conduct a nationwide sample survey of population changes this year to accurately and promptly monitor the country’s demographic development and provide basic information for its population policies, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said Thursday.

    From Oct. 10 to Nov. 30, selected residents will be asked about their basic information, including age, gender, ethnic groups, educational levels, job positions, marital and fertility status and housing conditions.

    The reference time for the survey will be Nov. 1, 2024, said the NBS.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese premier says China ready to share more development opportunities with Australia

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

    Chinese premier says China ready to share more development opportunities with Australia

    VIENTIANE, Oct. 10 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here on Thursday that China is ready to share more development opportunities with Australia.

    The nature of China-Australia ties is mutually beneficial and win-win, Li noted in his meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on the sidelines of the leaders’ meetings on East Asia cooperation.

    China, he said, is also willing to continue to strengthen exchanges on macroeconomic policies, and expand cooperation in trade and investment, green development, scientific and technological innovation and other fields, so as to add more impetus to the common development of the two countries.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese premier hails recent progress in China-Australia ties

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

    VIENTIANE, Oct. 10 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here on Thursday that China-Australia ties have recently been steadily advancing, with practical cooperation in various fields gradually progressing, and local as well as people-to-people exchanges becoming more active.

    Li made the remarks during his meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on the sidelines of the leaders’ meetings on East Asia cooperation held in Vientiane.

    The progress shows that the future China-Australia relations are promising, as long as the two sides continue to work toward a common goal, Li added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to work with Australia to safeguard peace, stability in Asia-Pacific region: Premier Li

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

    China to work with Australia to safeguard peace, stability in Asia-Pacific region: Premier Li

    VIENTIANE, Oct. 10 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here on Thursday that China is willing to work with Australia to safeguard peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region with concrete actions.

    Li made the remarks during his meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on the sidelines of the leaders’ meetings on East Asia cooperation held in Vientiane.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to build first-class business environment: Premier Li

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

    VIENTIANE, Oct. 10 — China will continue to build a market-oriented, law-based and internationalized first-class business environment, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here Thursday.

    Li made the remarks during his meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on the sidelines of the leaders’ meetings on East Asia cooperation held in Vientiane.

    China welcomes more Australian enterprises to invest in China, and hopes that Australia will provide a fair, safe, non-discriminatory and predictable business environment for Chinese enterprises to invest and operate in Australia, Li said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Resumption of live rock lobster trade with China

    Source: Australian Government – Minister of Foreign Affairs

    The Albanese Labor Government has agreed a timetable with China for the full resumption of Australian live rock lobster exports by the end of the year.

    This will save the jobs of 3,000 Australians employed in the industry, 2,000 of which are in Western Australia.

    The agreement to a timetable for the re-entry of live rock lobster was made during a meeting between Prime Minister Albanese and China’s Premier Li Qiang today on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Laos.

    This outcome is another step towards stabilising the bilateral relationship between China and Australia. This is positive news for the lobster industry and for Chinese consumers, who will have access to high-quality Australian rock lobsters in time for Lunar New Year.  

    Since 2020, Australian rock lobsters have been effectively prevented from entering China’s market, which was worth over $700 million in 2019.

    We acknowledge the Australian rock lobster industry for their resilience during a challenging period.

    The Albanese Government has seen progress on the removal of trade impediments for wine, barley, coal, cotton, timber logs, copper ores and concentrates; and some meat establishments – almost $20 billion worth of Australian exports.

    With our patient, calibrated, and deliberate approach, we are restoring Australian trade with our largest export market.

    The Albanese Government will continue with its calm and consistent approach to the China relationship – where we cooperate where we can, disagree where we must, and engage in the national interest.

    Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

    “Resolution of trade impediments is at the top of our Government’s agenda. The reinstatement in normalised trade for all commodities is front and centre of the Government’s engagement strategy with China.

    “It is in the interests of both our countries to continue this path of stabilising our relationship. A resumption in trade for all Australian commodities is an important part of this process.

    “Having dialogue helps us navigate our differences and build upon areas where we can cooperate – without compromising on any Australian interests.”

    Quotes attributable to Foreign Minister Penny Wong:

    “The Albanese Government’s approach to China has been patient, calibrated and deliberate – and our approach has paid dividends for Australians and for the national interest.

    “We continue to urge Australian businesses to diversify to grow value for their companies and for their country.

    Quotes attributable to Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell:

    “This is a great outcome for the Australian lobster industry and for Chinese consumers.

    “The Albanese Government is delivering for Australian farmers, miners, businesses and workers.

    “I encourage businesses to continue to take advantage of new trade diversification opportunities created by this Government.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins:

    “This agreement on a timetable with China for the full resumption of trade by the end of the year is a significant step forward for Australia’s rock lobster industry and will deliver job security for fishing communities in regional areas.

    “The resumption of full Australian rock lobster exports to China is expected to have a trade potential of over $700 million.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: China removes block on Australian lobster, in last big bilateral trade breakthrough

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    China has removed the last significant trade barrier it imposed on Australia, with a timetable to resume full lobster imports by the end of the year.

    Anthony Albanese announced the breakthrough after a meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Vientiane, where the prime minister is attending the ASEAN-Australia summit.

    Albanese said the end of the barrier would be in time for the Chinese New Year. This would be welcomed by those in the lobster trade in places including Geraldton, Western Australia, and in South Australia and Tasmania, he said.

    The lobster decision means the Chinese over the last two years have removed trade barriers of nearly $20 billion slapped on Australia during the time of the former government when relations between the two countries went into a deep freeze. This followed various Australian decisions, including the call for an inquiry into the origins of COVID.

    Remaining impediments are now worth less than $500 million, with two red meat establishments still affected.

    The lobster trade was worth more than $700 million in 2019.

    More than 3000 people are employed in the lobster industry, 2000 of them in WA.

    “The reinstatement in normalised trade for all commodities is front and centre of the Government’s engagement strategy with China,” Albanese said.

    “It is in the interests of both our countries to continue this path of stabilising our relationship. A resumption in trade for all Australian commodities is an important part of this process.”

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

    – ref. China removes block on Australian lobster, in last big bilateral trade breakthrough – https://theconversation.com/china-removes-block-on-australian-lobster-in-last-big-bilateral-trade-breakthrough-241012

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Bus parade route revealed

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Transport Department today announced the route of a bus parade, scheduled for October 19, to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

    Starting at around 11am that day, parade buses will depart from Victoria Park in Causeway Bay for Man Kwong Street in Central. They will transit along Gordon Road, King’s Road, Causeway Road, Hennessy Road, Fleming Road and Lung Wo Road.

    The route is about six km long and will take about 30 minutes to complete. Members of the public can observe the parade and take photos at viewing locations such as Hennessy Road near Jardine’s Bazaar in Causeway Bay, Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai, and Central Pier, where the parade ends.

    Police will lead the convoy and may implement traffic and crowd safety measures, depending on conditions.

    In case of adverse weather, the bus parade will be cancelled. The public should watch out for the updates on the department’s website.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: ‘Role models’ portrayed in artworks

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    In a period of nearly five months earlier this year, members of the teaching faculty of the Central Academy of Fine Arts, in Beijing, visited people who have been recognized as “role models” and “master craftsman” in different trades in Shanghai, and portrayed them in various forms of art.

    Now, these paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints and digital works, some 200 pieces depicting 75 figures, are on show at Shanghai Workers’ Cultural Palace to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and to pay tribute to these endeavoring at the grassroots, from different walks of life.

    Since 2015, the Central Academy of Fine Arts has been motivating its teachers and students to make portrayals for model workers from various fields, to create an image archive of the figures who have contributed to the country. Figures at the current exhibition include these from the manufacturing industries, science and new technologies such as AI and biotech, the fields of cultural heritage and protection and different sections of the city administration.

    Yu Ding, the exhibition’s curator and dean of CAFA’s Sino-French Institute of Arts and Design Management, in Shanghai, says the event has built a bridge to connect artists and professionals from a wider social spectrum who share responsibilities to empower the country with hard work and hold up high the spirit of devotion.

    The exhibition is organized by the Shanghai Municipal Trade Union Council.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: ​’Harry Potter’ series returns to Chinese theaters

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Harry Potter fans in China will return to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry this weekend as Warner Bros. Pictures rereleases all eight films in theaters nationwide starting Oct. 11.

    A promotional poster advertises the rerelease of eight “Harry Potter” films in China. [Image courtesy of Warner Bros. Discovery]

    Warner Bros. will rerelease one “Harry Potter” film each Friday in Chinese theaters for eight consecutive weeks, starting Oct. 11 with “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.” The schedule continues with “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” on Oct. 18, “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” on Oct. 25, “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” on Nov. 1, “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” on Nov. 8, “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” on Nov. 15, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1” on Nov. 22, and “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2” on Nov. 29.

    The complete film collection will screen in more than 3,400 theaters across 295 Chinese mainland cities, available in formats including IMAX, Cinity and Dolby Cinema. This marks the first consecutive showing of all eight films on such a scale in China, highlighting the franchise’s enduring popularity.

    The Warner Bros. rerelease announcement has sparked nostalgia among fans. Meanwhile, audiences may pay tribute to renowned actor Maggie Smith, who passed away recently and was beloved for her role as iconic Professor Minerva McGonagall.

    Beyond the theatrical rerelease, Warner Bros. Discovery regularly partners with Chinese companies to engage fans through various products and experiences, including theme parks, games and audiobooks. Warner Bros. Discovery has organized fan events across China, including “Magical Mischief” and the “Fantastic Beasts Red Envelope Giveaway.” The annual “Back to Hogwarts” celebration drew large crowds this year in Beijing, Shanghai and Changsha. The Changsha event alone attracted more than 230,000 people.

    The Wizarding World franchise, which includes “Harry Potter” films and the “Fantastic Beasts” series, is the fourth-highest-grossing film series globally, with $9.6 billion in worldwide box office receipts. Eight Harry Potter films generated $7.7 billion worldwide, including 1.26 billion yuan ($178 million) from the Chinese mainland.

    The first installment, “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” was rereleased in 2020 to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the first “Harry Potter” book published in China in 2000. It grossed 192 million yuan in China’s ever-expanding film market, significantly more than the 56 million yuan it initially made in China in 2002, according to China’s ticketing platform and box office tracker Maoyan.

    Harry Potter fans participate in a “Back to Hogwarts” event in Changsha, Hunan province, Sept. 1, 2024. [Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Discovery]

    The “Harry Potter” series, created by British novelist J.K. Rowling, has captivated generations of Chinese readers and moviegoers. Since its debut more than 25 years ago, the saga of the young wizard has become a cultural phenomenon, ranking among the most successful entertainment franchises in history.

    Rowling’s novels have spawned eight blockbuster films, three “Fantastic Beasts” movies, the stage play “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,” and various games. Fans globally also engage through consumer products and enjoy themed attractions at Universal Studios worldwide. Warner Bros. Discovery’s expanding “Harry Potter” portfolio includes tours, events and stores like Platform 9 3/4 shops and the flagship Harry Potter New York store. Studio Tours in London and Tokyo offer behind-the-scenes looks.

    An upcoming HBO series based on the “Harry Potter” books promises to expand the franchise’s reach, inviting both longtime fans and newcomers to explore its magic.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Incremental policies to boost China’s growth, benefit world

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

    BEIJING, Oct. 10 — With the Chinese economy advancing on a high-quality development path, recent incremental policies will boost China’s growth and help achieve its annual growth target of around 5 percent, which is uplifting both for China and the rest of the world.

    China recently introduced a series of growth-promoting policies to support economic restructuring. Covering a wide range of important sectors of the economy such as domestic demand, investment and green energy, these policies are of great significance in stabilizing expectations, boosting confidence and reinforcing momentum in the world’s second-largest economy.

    The just-concluded National Day “golden week” holiday recorded high domestic consumption and bustling outbound travel, showcasing strong market vitality. The recent capital market rally, which had not been seen in years, also reflected the improving market sentiment.

    The government is expected to roll out more reform measures conducive to economic development. These include the formation of guidelines on building a unified national market, a new negative list for market access, and mechanisms to ensure increased investment in future industries.

    China will expand the catalog of industries that encourage foreign investment, unveil a new group of major foreign-invested projects, and make its visa-free transit policies even more open, according to Zheng Shanjie, head of the National Development and Reform Commission.

    China’s high-quality development means increased opportunities for the rest of the world. With China opening its door wider, foreign companies will get more opportunities in China’s huge market.

    Undoubtedly, continued improvement of China’s economy is good news for the entire world, which is facing rising protectionism, a complex geopolitical situation and weak economic recovery.

    At present, the Chinese economy is still facing very complicated and severe external environment, which requires considerable efforts to maintain economic stability and progress.

    With the effects of incremental policies gradually emerging, China’s economic vitality will be further unleashed and market confidence will be further strengthened. Given the progress made in the first three quarters, the Chinese economy is poised to maintain overall stable growth for the whole year. This will be a shot in the arm for the world economy as well.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Humanoid robots have arrived and are ready to start work, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Humanoid robots have arrived and are ready to start work, says GlobalData

    Posted in Thematic Intelligence

    The advent of OpenAI’s ChatGPT in 2022 revolutionized humanoid robotics, allowing for task execution without explicit programming. As developed nations grapple with labor shortages from aging populations and declining birth rates, the demand for automation grows. Humanoid robots are emerging as vital solutions, particularly in eldercare, yet their successful integration hinges on societal acceptance and trust, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s latest Strategic Intelligence report, “Deep Dive into Humanoid Robots,” analyses humanoid robots’ scope and prospects for the coming decade. A new species of AI-enabled humanoid robots are designed to mimic human form and behavior and co-mingle and co-work with humans in human-designed environments. They are being intensively trialed in active work environments by Tesla, Amazon, and BYD ahead of commercial deployment at scale later in the decade.

    As humanoid robots advance in terms of reliability, autonomy, and contextual awareness, there will be an increased demand for them to take on hazardous or undesirable jobs, especially in sectors where a labor shortage is expected, such as eldercare.

    However, traditional Japanese and European robot companies are not making the running. Instead, Tesla, UBtech Robotics, and a clutch of breakthrough startups, including Fourier Intelligence, Figure AI, 1X Technologies, and Agility Robotics are leading the way.

    Michael Orme, Senior Consultant in the Strategic team at GlobalData, comments: “Humanoid robot deployment will likely start in China, South Korea, and Japan. Many countries and global industries are already facing serious prospective skilled labor shortages in these sectors and require higher levels of sustainable productivity across the board.”

    Martina Raveni, Analyst in the Strategic team at GlobalData, continues: “Due to low fertility rates and longer life expectancies, populations are shrinking and aging. This is leading to labor shortages across many industries, especially eldercare. It is difficult to see how many demographically stricken societies will avoid eldercare catastrophes and fiscal crises in the future without help from humanoid robots in hospitals and homes.”

    Edward Bickerton, Associate Analyst in the Strategic team at GlobalData, says: ”We are very much in the early stages right now, and first-generation humanoid robots, despite highly impressive demos—albeit aided and abetted by special effects—are far from being general purpose, fully autonomous machines.”

    Raveni concludes: “The success of evolving humanoid technologies will hinge not only on their technical prowess but also on their seamless integration into society. For these robots to truly thrive, they must go beyond mere functionality; they must build trust and foster collaboration with the communities they are designed to serve.”

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI China: ‘Stories of CPC’ briefing on Northeast China to be held

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    The “Stories of CPC – Achievements of Northeast China in Practicing Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era” thematic briefing will be held on Oct. 14 in Changchun, Northeast China’s Jilin province, Hu Zhaoming, spokesperson for the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC), announced Wednesday.
    The briefing, themed “Striving for New Breakthroughs in the Full Revitalization of Northeast China,” will be jointly hosted by the IDCPC, and Party committees of the Inner Mongolia autonomous region and the three provinces of Liaoning, Jilin and Heilongjiang.
    The event will be attended by more than 200 leaders of political parties from over 50 countries, foreign envoys in China, and foreign business representatives.
    China’s northeastern region comprises of Liaoning, Jilin and Heilongjiang provinces and part of the Inner Mongolia autonomous region.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to boost financing support for data development, utilization

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

    BEIJING, Oct. 10 — China will increase fiscal support for the data industry by tapping into the central government’s budget and ultra-long special treasury bonds to improve the management, development, utilization and security of data resources, an official said on Thursday.

    Chen Ronghui, deputy head of the National Data Administration, said at a press conference that China encourages financial institutions to innovate products and services to provide financing for data companies. In addition, private capital is being promoted to participate in the development of public data resources to foster industry growth.

    China unveiled a set of guidelines on Wednesday aimed at accelerating the development and utilization of public data resources to support the digital economy and help build new competitive advantages for the country.

    By 2025, China expects to see significant progress in the development and utilization of public data resources across key industries and regions. By 2030, public data is anticipated to play a key role in empowering the real economy, expanding consumer demand and improving governance capacity, according to the guidelines.

    The guidelines also emphasize the need for data to be made available in an orderly manner in accordance with the law and regulations, while ensuring national data security and the protection of personal information and business secrets.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Announcement on Open Market Operations No.199 [2024]

    Source: Peoples Bank of China

    Announcement on Open Market Operations No.199 [2024]

    (Open Market Operations Office, October 10, 2024)

    In order to keep liquidity adequate at a reasonable level in the banking system, the People’s Bank of China conducted reverse repo operations in the amount of RMB150 billion through quantity bidding at a fixed interest rate on October 10, 2024.

    Details of the Reverse Repo Operations

    Maturity

    Volume

    Rate

    7 days

    RMB150 billion

    1.50%

    Date of last update Nov. 29 2018

    2024年10月10日

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: PBOC and MOF Joint Working Group Holds its First Official Meeting

    Source: Peoples Bank of China

    In order to implement the guidelines of the Third Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, as well as the requirement put forward at the Central Financial Work Conference to enrich the toolbox of monetary policy by gradually increasing the purchase and sale of government bonds in the central bank’s open market operations, the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) and the Ministry of Finance (MOF) have established a joint working group. Its first official meeting was held recently. Xuan Changneng, Deputy governor of the PBOC and Liao Min, Vice Minister of Finance attended and addressed the meeting. At the meeting, both sides highly recognized their previous close cooperation in buying and selling government bonds by the central bank. They also established the mechanism for the operation of the working group, and exchanged opinions on issues such as the operation of the bond market. Both agreed that the central bank’s buying and selling of government bonds is an important means to enrich the monetary toolbox and strengthen the liquidity management. Moving forward, both sides should strike a balance between development and security, and keep on promoting policy coordination. They should continuously improve relevant institutional arrangements, regulate the bond market and maintain its stable development, so as to provide a favourable market environment for the central bank to buy and sell government bonds. Officials from relevant departments of the PBOC and the MOF also attended the meeting.

    Date of last update Nov. 29 2018

    2024年10月09日

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Announcement on Open Market Business No.6 [2024]

    Source: Peoples Bank of China

    Announcement on Open Market Business No.6 [2024]

    (Open Market Operations Office, October 10, 2024)

    To implement the requirements of the Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China on “establishing a long-term mechanism to enhance the internal stability of the capital market” and promote the healthy and stable development of the capital market, the PBOC decides to set up Securities, Funds and Insurance companies Swap Facility (SFISF) to support eligible securities, funds and insurance companies to use their assets including bonds, stock ETFs and holdings of CSI 300 constituent stocks as collateral in exchange for highly liquid assets such as government bonds and central bank bills from the PBOC. The initial scale of the swap operation will be set at RMB500 billion, with possible expansions in the future. As from today, applications are accepted from eligible securities, funds and insurance companies.

    Date of last update Nov. 29 2018

    2024年10月10日

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese premier calls for building of an Asia of peace, openness

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

    VIENTIANE, Oct. 10 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here Thursday that China is ready to work with ASEAN, Japan, South Korea and other Asian countries to uphold the Asian consciousness, carry forward the Oriental wisdom, and steadily move forward toward building an Asia of peace and tranquility, common prosperity, openness and interconnectivity.

    Li made the remarks when addressing the 27th ASEAN Plus Three Summit here in Vientiane.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese premier calls for stronger Asian consciousness

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

    VIENTIANE, Oct. 10 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Thursday called for the need to strengthen the Asian consciousness, saying that Asian countries share a common home, common interests, common opportunities, and a common pursuit of values.

    Addressing the 27th ASEAN Plus Three Summit here in Vientiane, Li said Asian countries value independence, adding that the affairs of Asia should be handled through consultation by the people of Asia, and Asia’s fate must be in its own hands.

    He also said that Asian nations all stress that development comes first and agree that peace is of paramount importance.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – MEPs debate Hungary’s Presidency programme with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán

    Source: European Parliament 3

    On Wednesday, MEPs discussed Hungary’s priorities for its six-month Council Presidency, which started on 1 July, with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.

    European Parliament President Roberta Metsola noted in her opening statement that the Hungarian Presidency comes at a time when the EU is taking “significant steps forward” including “supporting Ukraine, strengthening European competitiveness, and building a more stable, secure Europe”. She recalled that the Parliament is the house of democracy, “where the rule of law and freedom of expression are sacrosanct”, and where “we may not always agree, but we will always give space for the respectful sharing of views”.

    “The EU needs to change,” Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said, adding that the Hungarian Presidency aims to be the voice and catalyst for change. According to Mr Orbán, the situation of the EU is far more serious than in 2011, during the first Hungarian EU Presidency, citing the war in Ukraine, escalating conflicts in the Middle East and Africa, migration, risks to the Schengen area, and Europe losing its global competitiveness.

    Mr Orbán pledged that Hungary would be an honest and constructive broker holding the rotating presidency of the EU Council, including on the pending 52 legislative files that need to be finalised, and is ready to start inter-institutional negotiations with the Parliament.

    He highlighted competitiveness as a key issue for the Presidency, noting that the EU’s economic growth in the last two decades has been significantly lower than in China and US, with the EU’s share of global trade also decreasing. Pointing to energy prices as a key obstacle, Mr Orbán said that “as a result of moving away from Russian energy sources, the EU has lost significant GDP growth”. “We should not fall into the illusion that the green transition in itself offers a solution to the problem,” he argued, adding that decarbonisation has led to slowing down of productivity and the loss of jobs.

    On migration, Mr Orbán warned that “without external hotspots we cannot protect Europeans from illegal migration”. “The EU asylum system is simply not working. Illegal migration has led to increasing anti-semitism, violence against women and homophobia,” he claimed. He proposed holding regular “Schengen summits”, and insisted that Bulgaria and Romania should become full members of the free-movement area by the end of the year.

    On enlargement, Mr Orbán called for accelerating the accession of the Western Balkan countries and stressed that “without Serbia joining, we cannot stabilise the Balkans”.

    The Hungarian Prime Minister argued for an EU defence industry, a farmer-friendly, competitive agriculture sector, and for the importance of the EU cohesion policy. “Cohesion funds are not charity nor a donation, it is one of the biggest forms of investment policy in the EU, and it is a pre-requisite to balance out the single market,” he said.

    Response by the European Commission President

    Replying to Prime Minister Orbán, Ms von der Leyen affirmed the EU’s commitment to support Hungary after the recent floods and outlined three key priorities: Ukraine, competitiveness, and migration. She criticised Hungary’s stance on Russia, deploring that “one member state in particular” is still trying to buy fossil fuels from Russia despite the EU’s commitment to be energy independent. On migration, she condemned Hungary’s decision to release convicted smugglers and questioned its visa policies, such as inviting Russian nationals into the EU without additional checks, warning these “make Hungary a security risk, not only for Hungary but for all member states.” Emphasising the country’s potential within the EU, she urged it to “serve the cause of European unity” rather than diverging from shared values. (Her full speech is available here.)

    Speakers from political groups

    A majority of speakers in Parliament criticised the Hungarian Prime Minister for his record since the country assumed the presidency of the Council, as well as for turning Hungary into a hybrid regime, undermining Ukraine’s fight against Russian aggression, and collaborating with illiberal regimes in Moscow and Beijing. Most speakers expressed their concern about the complete lack of regard for EU values demonstrated by the Hungarian Prime Minister, as well as allegations of rampant corruption in Hungary. Many MEPs expressed their solidarity with the Hungarian people suffering from their government’s restrictions on judicial independence, media freedom, and civil society. Several argued that it was a mistake to give the rotating presidency to Hungary and called for a suspension of its voting rights in the Council under the Article 7 procedure.

    Other speakers disagreed, commending the Hungarian government for its stance on migration and for placing competitiveness at the top of its priorities. They lauded Hungary as a defender of traditional values and took the opportunity to argue that the green transition policies and cumbersome EU rules are destroying Europe’s economy.

    You can catch up with the debate here.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to contribute 60 pct of global renewable expansion by 2030: IEA

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

    PARIS, Oct. 9 — China is set to solidify its position as the global leader in renewable energy, accounting for 60 percent of the global capacity expansion by 2030, according to Renewables 2024 report, published by the International Energy Agency (IEA) on Wednesday.

    The report forecasts that by 2030, China will host half of all newly installed renewable energy capacity worldwide, having already surpassed its end-of-decade target of 1,200 GW for solar PV and wind power six years ahead of schedule. Since phasing out feed-in tariffs in 2020, China’s solar PV capacity has nearly quadrupled and wind capacity has doubled, driven by competitive costs and favorable government policies.

    According to the IEA, China’s success is largely due to robust support for both large-scale and distributed renewable technologies. The country’s renewable expansion is further fueled by its Net Zero by 2060 goal, backed by incentives from the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025), local manufacturing capabilities, and low-cost financing.

    In addition to China’s progress, the report outlines global trends in renewable energy deployment across electricity, transport, and heating sectors by 2030. It also evaluates the challenges to achieving the global goal of tripling installed renewable capacity. Highlighting the potential role of renewable fuels in decarbonization, the report also examines other key issues including policy trends, technology costs, and system integration that drive the development of renewable energy.

    Renewables 2024 is the IEA’s flagship annual report, providing forecasts and analysis on market and policy trends, alongside the barriers to faster growth in the renewable energy sector.

    MIL OSI China News –