NewzIntel.com

Category: China

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Telling good stories through stamps

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    A rich treasure trove of postal artefacts can be found on the first floor of the Hongkong Post Building in Kowloon Bay.

    The new Postal Gallery spans approximately 200 sq m, a quarter larger than the previous 160 sq m gallery at the General Post Office in Central.

    “Unlike the open display of the old gallery, the new layout resembles a museum, showcasing the history of Hongkong Post over the past 150 years and highlighting the themes of special stamps issued throughout the years,” Hongkong Post Senior Manager (Public Relations) Oliver Wong explained.

    Philatelic retrospective

    “Time Tunnel” offers an overview of the development of Hongkong Post over the years and showcases historically rich exhibits, including postal items from the 1960s to 1980s, such as letter scales, postal staff uniforms and various postal supplies. The new gallery also features a recently revamped exhibition corner titled “Stamps that Tell Stories”.

    “Since Hong Kong’s return to the motherland 27 years ago, in July 1997, Hongkong Post has issued over 400 sets of special stamps.

    “To commemorate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, we have updated the exhibits. In ‘Stamps that Tell Stories’, more than 40 sets of special stamps are displayed across four categories: The Return of Hong Kong to the Motherland, Achievements of the Country, The Development of Hong Kong, and Serving the Community.

    “We aim for the public to appreciate the country’s achievements, and significant historical moments in Hong Kong, through these stamp products,” Mr Wong added.

    Under the theme of returning to the motherland, a special exhibit includes the first-day cover for the 25th anniversary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region commemorative stamp.

    Legislative Council President Andrew Leung invited incumbent and former Chief Executives including Tung Chee-hwa, Donald Tsang, CY Leung, Carrie Lam and John Lee, and Presidents of the Legislative Council, Rita Fan and Jasper Tsang, to join him to sign on the cover, symbolically representing the long-standing co-operation and interaction between the city’s executive authorities and legislature.

    Since 1997, Hongkong Post has issued stamps to commemorate the 50th, 60th and 70th anniversaries of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

    The 50th-anniversary stamp featured an artistic rendering of the figure “5”, to represent 50 years, along with the national emblem.

    For the 60th anniversary, a joint souvenir pack featuring three stamp sheetlets presented in a so-called “se-tenant” style, was issued by the Mainland, Hong Kong, and Macau.

    Five years ago, for the 70th anniversary, the stamps depicted a traditional ruyi knot, signifying a spirit of national unity, as well as sentiments of well-being and harmony.

    Remarkable achievements

    The country’s aerospace development is progressing rapidly. On October 15, 2003, the first manned spacecraft, Shenzhou-5, carried astronaut Yang Liwei into space and returned to Earth the following day.

    Hongkong Post issued the commemorative stamps on October 16, but there is an interesting back story as to why the special stamps could be available for sale right after the completion of Shenzhou-5’s mission.

    The postal authorities had actually planned and printed the stamps well in advance, as is the usual practice. Once Shenzhou-5 had successfully completed its mission, the department then immediately announced the stamp details and made them available for sale that same day.

    Olympic success

    More recently, a set of stamps was launched to congratulate Hong Kong Olympians after they won a gold, two silver and three bronze medals at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

    This year, the Hong Kong, China team achieved further success at the Paris Olympics, winning two gold medals – a record number at any Olympics – along with two bronze medals. Mr Wong revealed that Hongkong Post is actively considering issuing special stamps to honour the Hong Kong athletes for their remarkable accomplishments.

    Hongkong Post is currently organising guided tours of the “Stamps that Tell Stories” exhibition until November 30, with trained staff assisting visitors in appreciating the development of Hong Kong and the country over the past 75 years.

    Tour participants each receive a limited edition postcard, while a new cachet commemorating National Day is also available.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi, Kim exchange congratulatory messages over 75th anniversary of China-DPRK diplomatic ties

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Chinese President Xi Jinping and Kim Jong Un, general secretary of the Workers’ Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), on Sunday exchanged congratulatory messages over the 75th anniversary of the China-DPRK diplomatic ties.

    In his message, Xi stressed that he highly values the development of China-DPRK relations, and China is willing to work with the DPRK to take the 75th anniversary as an opportunity to strengthen strategic communication and coordination, deepen friendly exchanges and cooperation, and continue to write new chapters for China-DPRK traditional friendship.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese-invested uranium miner makes progress in bridging Namibia’s digital divide

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Students start their first computer course under the guidance of Swakop Uranium’s Husab mine volunteers in Lazarus Haufiku Combined School in Oshamba village, Ohangwena region in northern Namibia on Oct. 4, 2024. Chinese-invested Swakop Uranium’s Husab mine in Namibia on Friday contributed to the country’s quest to bridge the digital divide by donating computer equipment to the Lazarus Haufiku Combined School in Oshamba village in the northern region of Ohangwena. (Xinhua/Chen Cheng)

    Chinese-invested Swakop Uranium’s Husab mine in Namibia on Friday contributed to the country’s quest to bridge the digital divide by donating computer equipment to the Lazarus Haufiku Combined School in Oshamba village in the northern region of Ohangwena.

    About 550 students will benefit from the donation, which includes 16 computers, a high-performance printer, and a school fence for security.

    At the handover ceremony, which was attended by government officials and community members, Ester Nghipondoka, Namibian minister of education, arts and culture, said the gesture is a powerful statement of commitment to education.

    “Swakop Uranium’s ‘Invest in Education’ Campaign is a beacon of hope, having committed over 3 million Namibian dollars (about 172,000 U.S. dollars) in 2024 alone across various regions,” she said, adding that the support from the miner exemplifies what it means to be a “true friend of education.”

    As Namibia moves toward digitalization, it is imperative that schools are equipped with the necessary tools and resources for tomorrow’s future, said Nghipondoka.

    Sebastian Ndeitunga, governor of the Ohangwena Region, commended all those who have mobilized the resources to support the education sector in the region.

    “Development partners and businesses such as the Swakop Uranium Mine are of great importance and will have a long-term, far-reaching impact on our education sector,” he said.

    Qiu Bin, chief executive officer of Swakop Uranium, said the company’s corporate social responsibility is to support sustainable projects that uplift communities across Namibia, especially rural communities.

    “With access to modern technology and the internet, students will have easier access to the outside world, broaden their horizons, and be better equipped for the future,” he said, adding that the miner will continue with such initiatives and play its part in ensuring the socio-economic development of Namibia.

    Lazarus Haufiku is one of the top academic schools in the Ohangwena Region, excelling in academics, leadership, sports, and culture, although it has struggled with a lack of technology.

    Namibian Minister of Education, Arts and Culture Ester Nghipondoka delivers a speech during a computer equipment handover ceremony in Oshamba village, Ohangwena region in northern Namibia on Oct. 4, 2024. Chinese-invested Swakop Uranium’s Husab mine in Namibia on Friday contributed to the country’s quest to bridge the digital divide by donating computer equipment to the Lazarus Haufiku Combined School in Oshamba village in the northern region of Ohangwena. (Xinhua/Chen Cheng)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Leaked emails show White House ignores early warning of Gaza humanitarian disaster

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Leaked emails from senior officials in the State Department and Pentagon show White House ignored early warning of the humanitarian catastrophe and possible war crimes from Israeli offensives in Gaza, Reuters reported Friday.

    The emails, dated Oct. 11 to 14, 2023, a few days into Israel’s air strikes on Gaza following the Oct. 7 Hamas attack, reveal that Washington was aware of the catastrophic humanitarian consequences yet chose to keep supplying munitions to Israel. They also show the White House’s refusal to call for a ceasefire at the starting stage of the conflict despite the impending crisis internal experts clearly warned.

    After the exposure of the scandal, Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen said the emails show that “unfolding humanitarian disaster in Gaza was painfully clear from the earliest days of the war, with key experts warning that international standards were being violated,” said the Reuters report.

    The Israeli military has used U.S. weapons for attacks on refugee camps, schools, and hospitals, and in disproportionate attacks on military targets, all almost surely in violation of international humanitarian law, and has caused huge civilian casualties, according to a research report released by the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft in August.

    Since Oct. 7, 2023, more than 1,500 people have been killed in Israel, almost 42,000 in Gaza, and more than 700 in the West Bank, according to data from the World Health Organization.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Netanyahu claims significant destruction of Hezbollah’s arsenal in recent strikes

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    This photo taken on Oct. 4, 2024 shows a scene after an Israeli airstrike in the southern suburbs of Beirut, Lebanon. (Xinhua/Bilal Jawich)

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Saturday that the Israeli army has destroyed a significant portion of Hezbollah’s missile and rocket capabilities.

    In a recorded video address, Netanyahu also said Israeli forces are dismantling the Lebanese group’s tunnel system near the border. “While the threat has not been fully eliminated, we have shifted the balance of the conflict,” he said. “About a month ago, as we neared the end of dismantling Hamas battalions in Gaza, we began fulfilling the promise I made to the residents of northern Israel.”

    Netanyahu also took aim at French President Emmanuel Macron, who in a recent radio interview emphasized the need to prioritize a political solution and called for halting the supply of weapons to Israel for its operations in Gaza.

    “President Macron and other Western leaders are now advocating for arms embargoes on Israel. Shame on them,” Netanyahu said. “Israel will prevail with or without their support, but their shame will persist long after the war is won,” he added.

    Since Sept. 23, the Israeli army has intensified its airstrikes against Hezbollah across Lebanon, resulting in significant civilian casualties and displacing residents from many areas. The airstrikes have also targeted and killed key Hezbollah leaders, including the group’s secretary-general, Hassan Nasrallah. In addition, Israel has launched what it describes as a “limited” ground operation in Lebanon.

    These escalations have exacerbated ongoing clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, which began on October 8, 2023, when Hezbollah fired rockets into Israel in support of Hamas in the Gaza Strip, prompting retaliatory fire and airstrikes by Israel in southeastern Lebanon.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: War movie sequel dominates China’s golden week box office

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    A movie goer claims tickets from a self-service machine at a cinema in Beijing, capital of China, Aug. 21, 2024. (Xinhua/Chu Jiayin)

    Chen Kaige’s war epic “The Volunteers: The Battle of Life and Death” continued its reign at the top of China’s box office during the National Day holiday, maintaining its lead for the fourth consecutive day on Saturday.

    Starring Zhu Yilong, Xin Baiqing and Zhang Zifeng, the second installment of Chen’s “The Volunteers” trilogy has raked in more than 600 million yuan (85.6 million U.S. dollars), accounting for around 36.7 percent of the holiday’s total box office revenue.

    According to movie data platform Maoyan, the film is on track to finish its run with over 1.4 billion yuan, potentially placing it among the top six highest-grossing films in China this year.

    The film’s predecessor also found success at the box office, earning 868 million yuan following its release during last year’s National Day holiday.

    The lucrative week-long National Day holiday kicked off on Oct. 1, and has been seen as a potential catalyst for a box office rebound following a weaker-than-expected summer season.

    The holiday lineup currently features eight new domestic releases, after two films recently withdrew from the competition.

    The second and third highest-grossing films to date are Lu Chuan’s sci-fi offering “Bureau 749” and the crime drama “Tiger Wolf Rabbit,” which have earned over 330 million yuan and 282 million yuan, respectively, as of Saturday afternoon.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Biden extends congratulations to Xi on PRC’s 75th founding anniversary: spokesperson

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    U.S. President Joe Biden has sent a message of congratulations to Chinese President Xi Jinping on the occasion of the 75th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Saturday.

    Leaders of many countries and political parties and heads of international organizations have recently sent messages or letters of congratulations to President Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, on the 75th founding anniversary of the PRC.

    The spokesperson confirmed that President Biden was among the leaders congratulating China.

    In the message, President Biden noted that “on behalf of the people of the United States, I send our congratulations to you and the people of the People’s Republic of China as you celebrate the 75th anniversary of its founding. The American people and I convey our best wishes to the people of the People’s Republic of China,” according to the spokesperson.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: More Malta-China cooperation to be expected: PM

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela speaks during a ceremony for the inauguration of the first bluefin tuna joint venture platform between China and Malta in Marsa, Malta, Oct. 4, 2024. (Photo by Jonathan Borg/Xinhua)

    Maltese Prime Minister Abela said on Friday evening that the partnership between Malta and China has grown stronger over the years and more cooperation is expected.

    Abela made the remarks during a ceremony for the inauguration of the first bluefin tuna joint venture platform between China and Malta held in Marsa, eastern Malta.

    Highlighting the solid economic ties between Malta and China, he said, “Over the past five decades, our partnership has grown stronger through mutual benefit and win-win cooperation.”

    The joint venture was established in southern China’s Hainan Province in June this year by Malta Fish Farming (MFF) Ltd. and Shandong Far-sea Development Ltd., a subsidiary of Shandong Marine Group. This cooperation covers the whole industrial chain such as bluefin tuna trade, processing, and transportation.

    Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela (2nd R), chairman of Malta Fish Farming (MFF) Ltd. Salvu Ellul (1st R) and Peng Yijun (2nd L), charge d’affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Malta, cut the ribbon during a ceremony for the inauguration of the first bluefin tuna joint venture platform between China and Malta in Marsa, Malta, Oct. 4, 2024. (Photo by Jonathan Borg/Xinhua)

    Abela said that the initiative marks a “significant milestone” in the longstanding relationship between Malta and China and the collaboration is “another promising chapter” in bilateral trade relations.

    The new cooperation platform “symbolizes not just economic cooperation, but the enduring strength of the ties between our two nations,” he noted. “Together, we look forward to a future filled with opportunity, prosperity, and further cooperation.”

    Peng Yijun, charge d’affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Malta, said that the economic and trade cooperation is always an important part of China-Malta relationship, and one of the key areas with the greatest potential for further development.

    Over the past 52 years of diplomatic relations, the traditional friendship between China and Malta has withstood the test of time, he said, adding “Our economic and trade ties are rooted in mutual benefit and win-win cooperation, which has brought tangible benefits to our two peoples.”

    Looking into the future, China is willing to work with all sectors of the Maltese side to promote in-depth exchanges in various fields, Peng noted.

    Salvu Ellul, chairman of Malta Fish Farming (MFF) Ltd., speaks during a ceremony for the inauguration of the first bluefin tuna joint venture platform between China and Malta in Marsa, Malta, Oct. 4, 2024. (Photo by Jonathan Borg/Xinhua)

    Salvu Ellul, chairman of MFF, said the joint venture is a result of bilateral consensus on developing the blue economy, especially the close exchanges and communication between the two governments over the years.

    He said that MFF will bring the highest quality bluefin tuna products to the Chinese consumers’ table.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Syria, Iran discuss ways to support Lebanon

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Syrian Foreign Minister Bassam Sabbagh (R) holds talks with his Iranian counterpart Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, in Damascus, Syria, Oct. 5, 2024. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)

    Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Saturday discussed ways to support Lebanon amid the ongoing Israeli military offensive in Lebanon.

    According to Syria’s state news agency SANA, Assad emphasized the strategic relationship between Syria and Iran during his meeting here with Araghchi and his delegation.

    The president underlined the importance of their alliance in confronting challenges, particularly Israeli actions in the region.

    He praised Iran’s strong response to “Israeli violations” and reaffirmed Syria’s commitment to resisting what he described as “occupation.”

    Both sides also stressed the need for coordinated efforts to halt the attacks and aid displaced Lebanese civilians.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: TECO Sydney Hosted the 113th National Day Reception of the R.O.C. (Taiwan)

    Source: Republic Of China Taiwan 2

    Happy 113th National Day to the ROC (Taiwan)!
    The 113th National Day Reception of the Republic of China (Taiwan), hosted by TECO Sydney, was held at the historic landmark, the Fullerton Hotel, on the evening of October 3rd. Director General David Cheng-Wei Wu and Mrs. Vicki Wu were delighted to celebrate this special occasion with over 350 dignitaries from the Federal and NSW State Parliament, Taiwanese communities, business sector, cultural and arts industries, and the media. The incredible turnout reflected the strong support for democratic Taiwan!
    In his speech, DG Wu outlined the new government’s roadmap for development, Taiwan’s key priorities in the current international security environment, and our vision for the future.
    Facing serious global threats to democracy, our top priority is maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait through our Four Pillars of Peace action plan: strengthening national defense, building economic resilience, deepening partnerships with fellow democracies, and upholding stable and principled cross-strait leadership.
    Federal MP, the Hon. Paul Fletcher, shared his experiences co-leading the federal bipartisan delegation to Taiwan. During the trip, they met with former President Tsai Ing-Wen and President Lai Ching-Te, who was then Vice President. He was deeply impressed by the dedication of Taiwanese politicians to serving the public good
    Federal Senator David Shoebridge spoke of Taiwan’s ethnic harmony and the calm, resolute response of the Taiwanese people in the face of military coercion from the PRC, during his family’s visit to Taiwan. He emphasized that Australia shares the same values with Taiwan and should work together to maintain security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
    Deputy President of the NSW Legislative Council, the Hon. Rod Roberts, appreciated the opportunity to visit Taiwan and witness the passionate election campaigns. He highly praised Taiwan’s mature constitutional governance, which highlights its strong and healthy democratic resilience.
    All 7 guest speakers reiterated that Taiwan has proven to be an indispensable partner in global supply chains and looked forward to further strengthening the bonds between Taiwan and Australia for mutual prosperity.
    A big thanks to our friends from city councils, officials from the Sydney Diplomatic Corps, experts and scholars from think tanks, and senior officials from the NSW Police and Sydney City Your continued support means so much to us, and your participation made this event a huge success!

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi, Kim exchange congratulatory messages over 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Chinese President Xi Jinping and Kim Jong Un, general secretary of the Workers’ Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), on Sunday exchanged congratulatory messages over the 75th anniversary of the China-DPRK diplomatic ties.

    In his message, Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, pointed out that 75 years ago, China and the DPRK officially established diplomatic relations, opening a new chapter in the history of bilateral relations, which is of epoch-making significance.

    Over the past 75 years, Xi said, the two countries have supported each other in consolidating people’s power and safeguarding national sovereignty, strengthening exchanges and cooperation and advancing socialist construction. They have also worked closely to promote regional peace and stability and safeguard international equity and justice.

    The traditional friendship between China and the DPRK has stood the test of changing times and global challenges, becoming a valuable asset for both countries and their people, he added.

    Xi stressed that he highly values the development of China-DPRK relations, noting that in recent years, he has met with Kim multiple times and maintained close communication through letters and messages, jointly guiding and promoting the development of China-DPRK relations.

    Under the new circumstances of the new era, Xi said, China is willing to work with the DPRK to take the 75th anniversary as an opportunity to strengthen strategic communication and coordination, deepen friendly exchanges and cooperation, and continue to write new chapters for China-DPRK traditional friendship, so as to jointly promote the steady and long-term development of the two countries’ socialist cause and bring more benefits to their people.

    In his message, Kim said that 75 years ago, the DPRK and China officially established diplomatic relations, and bilateral friendly relations have since entered a new stage of historical development.

    Over the past 75 years, the two parties and countries have upheld their firm belief in the legitimacy of their causes, overcoming various tests and challenges, and advancing courageously on the path of socialism, Kim said.

    It is in the fundamental interests of both countries to continuously carry forward and develop the DPRK-China friendship with a time-honored history and fine tradition, he added.

    The DPRK’s party and government will continue to make efforts to consolidate and develop the friendly and cooperative relations with China as required by the new era, Kim said.

    Kim also expressed his wish that the Chinese people, under the leadership of the CPC with Xi at its core, will continue to make new achievements in building a modern socialist country in all respects.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MD holds Maritime Carnival to celebrate 75th anniversary of founding of People’s Republic of China (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    MD holds Maritime Carnival to celebrate 75th anniversary of founding of People’s Republic of China (with photos)
    MD holds Maritime Carnival to celebrate 75th anniversary of founding of People’s Republic of China (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Marine Department (MD) organised the Maritime Carnival at the Hong Kong Maritime Museum (HKMM) at Central Pier No. 8 today (October 6) to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Through a series of free family-friendly activities and display panels, the carnival aimed to enrich the public’s understanding about the development of the maritime industry as well as to promote patriotic education to share the joy of celebrating the National Day with the public.     The opening ceremony of the carnival was graced by the Under Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Mr Liu Chun-san, who gave a welcoming speech. The event was officiated by the Director of Marine, Mr Wong Sai-fat. About 20 representatives from relevant supporting organisations of the carnival joined the ceremony to show their support.     The HKMM arranged guided tours to introduce the roles of various places of the shipping industry to the public. The Maritime Carnival also featured exhibition panels to display photos and related materials showcasing the history and development of the maritime industry in Hong Kong and the Mainland, especially the role of seafarers and their contributions to the maritime industry, thus promoting the nation’s history and patriotic education to visitors, especially young people, nourishing their feelings of “Love our Country, Love Hong Kong, Love our Community”.     Moreover, the public was able to learn more about the MD’s work by viewing demonstrations of marine refuse and oil cleaning, and shipboard visits to the MD’s patrol launch and hydrographic survey vessel. There were also fun-filled activities with maritime themes including a ship-handling simulator experience, games booths, marine movie and documentary screenings, a tattoo sticker experience, a photobooth, maritime-themed talks as well as underwater unmanned system challenge demonstrations.

     
    Ends/Sunday, October 6, 2024Issued at HKT 13:11

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: President of Cypriot House of Representatives to visit China

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Annita Demetriou, president of the House of Representatives of Cyprus, will lead a delegation to visit China from Oct. 8 to 13 at the invitation of Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese culture draws crowds at Jordan’s diplomatic charity bazaar

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The Chinese Embassy’s pavilion at the 60th Diplomatic Charity Bazaar in Jordan attracted throngs of visitors on Saturday, offering a glimpse into Chinese culture through an array of exhibits including food, beverages, clothing, and traditional ornaments.

    Chen Chuandong, the Chinese Ambassador to Jordan, expressed satisfaction with his embassy’s participation, highlighting the shared tradition of charitable giving in both Chinese and Arab cultures. “We hope to spread love to those in need through this event,” Chen said.

    The bazaar, inaugurated by Princess Basma bint Talal, featured 37 foreign diplomatic missions. The princess toured the event alongside ambassadors and diplomatic representatives, viewing handmade products and foods that showcased global cultural diversity.

    Visitors flocked to the Chinese pavilion, drawn by its diverse offerings. “The interest reflects the visitors’ appreciation for Chinese art and cuisine, and underscores the friendship between our peoples,” Chen noted.

    Mai Al-Nasour, a regular attendee, told Xinhua that she visits the bazaar annually to experience different cultures. “I’m particularly interested in Chinese green tea,” she said.

    Proceeds from the bazaar support orphans cared for by the Mabarrat Um Al Hussein Charity. Founded in 1958, Mabarrat Um Al Hussein is a home for disadvantaged orphaned boys, established by the late Queen Zein Al Sharaf, mother of Princess Basma.

    The annual event serves not only as a platform for cultural exchanges but also raises funds to support the charity’s educational programs for orphans. A fixture on Amman’s cultural calendar, the bazaar continues to promote solidarity and cooperation in assisting those in need, while offering a unique opportunity for cultural diplomacy.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese filmmaker unveils forgotten WWII tragedy, eyes MH370 mystery

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    In a world where history often fades into obscurity, Fang Li, a 70-year-old Chinese filmmaker and oceanic expert, is on a mission to revive forgotten stories from the depths of the sea and the annals of time. His latest documentary, “The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru,” has not only captivated audiences but was also recently selected as the submission from the Chinese mainland for the best international feature film Oscar.

    Fang Li with Lisbon Maru survivor Dennis Morley during an interview. Morley, the last survivor in the U.K., died in 2021 at age 101. [Image courtesy of Laurel Films]

    The film explores the lesser-known tragedy of a Japanese cargo ship carrying 1,816 British prisoners of war (POWs) from the Battle of Hong Kong in 1941. In October 1942, while en route to Japan without POW markings, the ship was torpedoed by a U.S. submarine. When it sank near the Dongji Islands in Zhoushan, eastern China’s Zhejiang province, Japanese soldiers locked prisoners below deck or shot at them, resulting in 828 deaths. Despite the danger, 255 local Chinese fishermen bravely rescued 384 British prisoners amid gunfire.

    Fang’s documentary is a testament to his dedication to uncovering these hidden stories. “From the beginning, I felt a deep responsibility to bring this story to light,” Fang told China.org.cn. “If I had not pursued this, I would have been a sinner of history.”

    Concept art to reenact the sinking scene from “The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru.” [Image courtesy of Laurel Films]

    As both a marine technologist and a filmmaker, Fang faced numerous challenges in producing this film. Over eight years, he invested his time and personal finances, selling all his properties and accumulating a large amount of debt. Despite the financial burden, Fang remained undeterred.

    “For those of us living in a peaceful era today, making this film is about prioritizing history over profit,” he stated. “We want to widely publicize it, allowing more people to remember this segment of history so that it is never silenced again.”

    Since its debut a month ago, “The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru” has grossed nearly 40 million yuan ($5.7 million) and holds the highest score for any domestic film this year on Douban, China’s major review aggregation website. The film’s 9.3/10 rating, based on more than 84,000 reviews, has helped sustain its box office performance.

    Sonar image of the Lisbon Maru wreckage. [Image courtesy of Laurel Films]

    “This cruel massacre has been buried under the sea and denied by the Japanese military for 82 years,” Fang noted. “No one has yet challenged the Japanese government’s account, which was only addressed once in 1943.”

    The documentary explores how historical events are remembered or forgotten. Fang and his team interviewed nearly 150 people across continents and engaged with about 380 families, bringing personal stories to life. Their efforts illuminated a forgotten chapter of history and provided solace to affected families. Fang also organized memorial events at the sinking site with descendants of those involved.

    Descendants of British prisoners of war hold a memorial at the coordinates of the sunken Lisbon Maru. [Image courtesy of Laurel Films]

    Fang shared several poignant stories cut from the film. One described a POW diving into the water to bid a final farewell to a dying comrade trapped in the ship’s hull. Another depicted a POW’s wartime romance with a Hong Kong girl; though they never reunited, he later named his daughter after her. “Regardless of race, time, or distance, emotions remain timeless,” Fang said.

    Fang hopes the local government will establish a maritime anti-fascist memorial museum near the sinking location. He has also discussed with Brian Finch, a retired major and the film’s military consultant, the possibility of salvaging the sunken ship or repatriating the remains of the POWs.

    “The British tradition is that if you die there, you are buried there as in a war grave,” he explained. “I argued this is not a war grave; this is a prison. These are imprisoned souls, not killed in combat but massacred. Should we free the souls that had been imprisoned?”

    Fang Li (right) poses with Lin Agen (center), a fisherman who helped rescue British prisoners of war. [Image courtesy of Laurel Films]

    Fang’s next documentary project likely involves MH370, the Malaysia Airlines flight that vanished in 2014, becoming one of aviation’s biggest mysteries. The fate of the plane as well as its 239 passengers and crew, mostly Chinese, remains unknown. Malaysia said earlier this year it may renew the search.

    The director revealed that the project has been under consideration for years and that he’s actively seeking funds, assistance, resources and collaborators.

    People hold flowers at an event marking the 10th anniversary of the disappearance of Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 in Subang Jaya, Selangor state, Malaysia, March 3, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Fang was previously known for finding the black box of a passenger plane that crashed off Dalian, a port city in northeastern China, in 2002 using a sonar beacon locator. “Life is about curiosity and exploration,” he said. “I look forward to uncovering more truths and sharing them with the world.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge sees record high daily vehicle passage

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    The Zhuhai port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) saw more than 20,000 inbound and outbound vehicles on Saturday, a daily record since the bridge’s opening in 2018.

    This photo taken on April 6, 2024 shows cars on Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge in south China. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The 55-km HZMB links China’s Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR), Macao SAR, and the city of Zhuhai in Guangdong Province. It is the world’s longest bridge-and-tunnel sea crossing.
    According to the border inspection station of the HZMB, 453,000 passengers and 93,000 vehicles crossed the bridge’s Zhuhai port from Tuesday to Saturday, the first five days of the week-long National Day holiday, up 34.33 percent and 56.38 percent respectively year-on-year.
    Among the traffic, vehicles carrying plates from Hong Kong and Macao surpassed 56,000 in number, marking a yearly increase of 73 percent.
    Border inspection officials said driving to the Chinese mainland for sightseeing and consumption is surging in popularity among Hong Kong and Macao families, especially during holidays.
    According to official data, more than 20 million inbound and outbound passengers have traveled through the Zhuhai port of the bridge so far in 2024, exceeding the total volume of the whole of last year.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Palestinians want to choose their own leaders – a year of war has distanced them further from this democratic goal

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Maha Nassar, Associate Professor in the School of Middle Eastern and North African Studies, University of Arizona

    A Palestinian university student casts a ballot in Gaza City in 2006. Abid Katib/Getty Images

    Over the summer as Israel continued to bombard Gaza, representatives from 14 Palestinian factions, including the two main parties – Hamas and Fatah – met in China. Following the most inclusive talks in years, all the parties agreed to a future unity government and to hold national elections.

    Such talk of “day after” governance may seem fanciful as the current war marks its first anniversary. The idea of holding Palestinian elections seems a long way off given the current destruction and humanitarian crisis, especially in the Gaza Strip. Meanwhile, any democratic process including Hamas – whose leadership Israeli forces have spent a year trying to eliminate following the the group’s attack of Oct. 7, 2023 – would be vehemently opposed by Israel. As such, it should come as little surprise that 72% of Palestinians recently polled said they saw no hope of the provisions agreed to in China being implemented any time soon.

    But the alternative “day after” plan for Gaza reconstruction being pushed by the United States – “revitilzing” the Palestinian Authority, the Fatah-led body that semi-governs parts of the West Bank – also seems like a non-starter. Critics of that plan warn that a simple reshuffling of existing figures would further delegitimize the deeply unpopular authority.

    As a scholar of Palestinian history and politics, I see talk of reforming existing bodies or propping up a unity government made up of the same players as missing a larger point: Palestinians are increasingly frustrated by their political representation; they want the opportunity to choose their own leaders.

    Even before the attack of Oct. 7, surveys showed that Palestinians were dissatisfied with governance they viewed as corrupt and dysfunctional. And as the war drags into a second year, the latest polls indicate that support for Hamas has dropped moderately; yet support for its main rival, Fatah, has risen only slightly. More than a third of those polled do not support either party.

    Divided leadership

    Despite talk of a unity government, Palestinian leadership is as bitterly divided as it has been for decades.

    Following a brief conflict in 2007, the Palestinian Authority split into two. The secular Fatah party, led by Mahmoud Abbas, controlled the authority in the West Bank, while its Islamist rival, Hamas, governed in Gaza.

    Since then, Palestinian representatives have held over a dozen reconciliation talks to try to bridge the divide, the last taking place in Beijing in July 2024. While several of these meetings have yielded joint agreements, such as the recent “Beijing Declaration,” none have led to the different factions working more closely together.

    A generation of Palestinians have never experienced a national vote.
    Hani Alshaer/Anadolu via Getty Images

    The current Palestinian Authority president, 88-year-old Abbas, is especially unpopular. First elected in 2005 to a four-year term, he unilaterally extended his term in 2009, declaring he would remain in office until the next election. But he has not allowed elections to be held since then. Summing up the views of many, analyst Khaled Elgindy described Abbas today as “an erratic and small-minded authoritarian with a virtually unbroken record of failure.”

    That helps explain why, according to a September 2024 poll conducted by the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research, 84% of Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip want Abbas to resign.

    When asked about a hypothetical presidential election between the leaders of both Hamas and Fatah, 45% of Palestinians reported they would rather just sit out the election. The question had to be hypothetical – elections are not even on the horizon. In fact, Palestinians in the West Bank or Gaza have not voted in presidential or legislative elections since 2006. And three-quarters of Palestinians see no prospect of elections taking place any time soon.

    Absence of elections

    That pessimism among Palestinians over having a democratic say in how they are governed has grown in recent years. It has no doubt been knocked further by a year of relentless Israeli bombardment and internal political dysfunction.

    A glimmer of hope for greater democratic representation had appeared in January 2021, when Abbas announced that legislative elections would be held later that year.

    Many on the candidate lists then were third-party figures and independents. Young Palestinians were especially excited – half of all eligible voters would have been aged 18 to 33, and it would have been their first opportunity to chose leaders who could claim to speak for them.

    But with less than one month before election day, Abbas postponed the vote indefinitely. While he blamed Israel for the postponement, other Palestinians also pointed to interference from Egypt and Jordan.

    Palestinian men cast ballots in 2006, the last time Palestinians were able to vote in national elections.
    Menahem Kahana/AFP via Getty Images

    With no elections in sight, Palestinians have undertaken several grassroots initiatives to try to enact democratic reforms from the ground up.

    For example, in November 2022, a Palestinian Popular Conference was held in several cities. It called for reforming Palestinian institutions to be more democratically representative of the 14 million Palestinians living around the world. Meetings were held in Gaza and Haifa, and Palestinians from around the world joined in person and virtually.

    But Palestinian Authority forces in the West Bank violently cracked down on the gathering in Ramallah and detained several conference leaders. The harsh repression signaled to many that Abbas and the Palestinian Authority were scared of an alternative, democratically elected Palestinian leadership emerging.

    Maintaining the occupation

    Many Palestinians see Abbas and his government as a “puppet authority,” propped up by Israel and the United States.

    Despite its name, the body does not have the “authority” that governments typically have. It cannot collect its own taxes, control its own border or protect its own citizens. Rather, Israel collects taxes in the West Bank and decides when – and whether – to hand them over to the Palestinian Authority. Israel has to authorize what enters and exits the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

    And, as has been evident throughout the current war, the Israeli military has pretty much free rein to invade “Area A”, the parts of the West Bank that are supposed to be under full Palestinian Authority security control.

    Yet Palestinians in the West Bank are not even able to express their opposition to these measures. In recent years, the Palestinian Authority has grown increasingly repressive, arresting a growing number of Palestinians on political grounds.

    Moreover, in the year since the Oct. 7 attacks, the Palestinian Authority has allowed Israel to arrest and detain over 7,000 Palestinians in the West Bank. Many are held for months without charge or trial and subjected to widespread torture and sexual abuse, according to Israeli human rights group B’Tselem.

    As such, the Palestinian Authority is viewed by many Palestinians as little more than a “subcontractor” of the Israeli occupation.

    Looking ahead

    So what does the the “day after” the conflict look like for Palestinians, and their hopes for democratic political representation?

    The International Court of Justice’s recent ruling that Israel’s occupation is illegal and that settlers must withdraw from the West Bank has given added legitimacy to Palestinians’ demand to end the occupation once and for all.

    But a future Palestinian government will only be credible if it represents the will of the people.

    Mussa Abu Marzuk, a senior member of Hamas, signs the Beijing Declaration as China Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Fatah Vice Chairman Mahmoud al-Aloul look on.
    Pedro Pardo/AFP via Getty Images

    To be sure, holding Palestinian elections to achieve this aim would be difficult given the ongoing Israeli occupation and the widespread destruction in Gaza. But it is clear that elections are what Palestinians want. When elections were last touted in 2021, 93.3% of eligible voters registered – only to have their hopes later dashed.

    At the reconciliation talks held in Beijing, all 14 Palestinian parties agreed to “prepare for the holding of general elections under the supervision of the Palestinian Central Elections Committee as soon as possible.”

    While Israel, the U.S. and regional actors worry that elections could legitimize Hamas’ rule over the Gaza Strip, that would not necessarily be the case. The latest polls show that only 36% of respondents in Gaza said they would prefer that outcome.

    For now, many Palestinians believe the first step should be the formation of a national reconciliation government that can negotiate reconstruction.

    But to have any chance of succeeding, such a body would need to be Palestinian-led. A government consisting of the same old actors forced upon Palestinians by the U.S. or Israel would suffer from crippling legitimacy problems.

    One thing is certain: The death and destruction of the past year have shown that the old approaches to Palestinian politics have not worked. Perhaps it is time for a new approach, one that centers Palestinian representation.

    Maha Nassar was a 2022 Palestinian non-resident fellow at the Foundation for Middle East Peace and currently serves on its board of directors.

    – ref. Palestinians want to choose their own leaders – a year of war has distanced them further from this democratic goal – https://theconversation.com/palestinians-want-to-choose-their-own-leaders-a-year-of-war-has-distanced-them-further-from-this-democratic-goal-239463

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Prime Minister to attend ASEAN Summit and 25th Meeting of Contact Group on Ukraine’s Defence

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Prime Minister of Canada – in French

    Prime Minister Justin Trudeau today announced that he will participate in the ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Laos, and the 25th meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group at Ramstein Air Base in Germany.

    For nearly half a century, Canada and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have worked in partnership to promote peace, prosperity, and progress. As we create well-paying jobs, fight climate change, and grow our economies, Canada and ASEAN are working together to improve the lives of people in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.

    At the Summit, to be held on October 10-11, 2024, Prime Minister Trudeau will underscore Canada and ASEAN’s longstanding commitment to building a fairer and more prosperous future for people on both sides of the Pacific. As work continues toward a Canada-ASEAN free trade agreement, the Prime Minister will highlight progress made under the ASEAN-Canada Strategic Partnership and emphasize the importance of long-term sustainable growth that focuses on the well-being of all, empowers women and girls, and is anchored in the clean energy transition.

    ASEAN is one of the fastest-growing economic regions in the world. That is why Canada is working to increase trade and investment with ASEAN and to put Canadians at the forefront of this immense opportunity. Together, ASEAN member states were Canada’s fourth-largest merchandise trading partner in 2023, with increased progress in agriculture, agri-food, and people-to-people digital trade. Indeed, increased trade and investment fosters jobs, innovation, and growth.

    As part of theCanada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, Prime Minister Trudeau will also meet with ASEAN partners at the ASEAN-Canada Special Summit to strengthen collaboration and effectively support prosperity and stability across the region. The Prime Minister will also highlight Canada’s constructive role in addressing new and emerging challenges to peace and security, including malicious cyber activity and cybercrime threats.

    This visit will mark the first official visit by a Canadian Prime Minister to Laos. As Canada and Laos celebrate 50 years of bilateral relations this year, Prime Minister Trudeau will seek to advance shared interests and further strengthen ties between our two countries.

    The Prime Minister will then participate in the 25th meeting of the Contact Group on the Defense of Ukraine, which will take place at the US air base in Ramstein, Germany, on October 12, 2024.

    At the meeting, which will be hosted by United States President Joe Biden, international leaders will reaffirm global solidarity with Ukraine as it defends itself against Russia’s unjustifiable war of aggression. Building on progress made at the NATO Summit in Washington DC, United States of America, earlier this year, Prime Minister Trudeau will emphasize the importance of maintaining international support for Ukraine and finding a just and lasting peace for Ukrainians.

    The Prime Minister will also highlight the importance of addressing Ukraine’s immediate defence and security needs, including providing the country with military equipment, security assistance and training, and economic support. He will also highlight Canada’s commitment to Ukraine’s long-term security, as demonstrated by theCanada-Ukraine Security Cooperation Agreement, which was concluded earlier this year.

    Canada will continue to work closely with its international partners to support Ukraine and Ukrainians in their struggle for freedom, independence and democracy.

    Quote

    “To meet common challenges, we need to find common solutions, and the ASEAN Summit and the Ukraine Defence Contact Group are helping us do just that. Whether it’s fighting climate change, creating good-paying jobs or strengthening democracy, Canada is playing a leading role in creating a better, safer and more just future for people around the world.”

    Highlights

    ASEAN is a regional intergovernmental organization with 10 member states. Its objectives are to: Accelerate economic growth, social progress and cultural development. Promote regional peace and stability, and respect for justice and the rule of law. Enhance regional collaboration in a range of economic, social, cultural, technical, scientific and administrative fields. The ASEAN region as a whole is Canada’s fourth largest trading partner. In 2023, bilateral trade reached more than $38.8 billion. Last year, Canada and ASEAN launched a Strategic Partnership to strengthen collaboration in strategic areas of mutual interest, including peace and security, and economic and socio-cultural cooperation. Canada became an ASEAN Dialogue Partner in 1977 and is one of 11 partners to have achieved this designation. Dialogue partners engage with ASEAN on political and security issues, regional integration, economic interests, interfaith dialogue, transnational crime and counter-terrorism, disaster risk reduction, and other areas. Other dialogue partners include Australia, China, the European Union, India, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy advances and defends Canada’s interests, helping to build a more secure, prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable region, and protects Canada’s national and economic security at home and abroad. The Ukraine Defense Contact Group was established by the U.S. Secretary of Defense in April 2022 to enable Allies and partners to synchronize donations, consult, and coordinate military assistance to Ukraine, while strengthening the capabilities of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The Ukraine Defense Contact Group, which meets monthly at the ministerial level, now includes representatives from more than 50 countries. Since the launch of theOperation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) has trained more than 43,000 members of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Canada announced an extension of the mission until March 2026, so that the CAF can continue to meet Ukraine’s training needs. Since 2022, Canada has provided more than $19.5 billion to support Ukraine in a variety of ways, including more than $12.4 billion in financial assistance, which allows the Ukrainian government to continue to function, including providing essential government services and pensions to Ukrainians. Other assistance includes more than $4.5 billion in military aid and military equipment donations, $358.2 million in humanitarian assistance, $442 million in development assistance, and more than $210 million in security and stabilization programming. According to expert estimates, since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, thousands of Ukrainian children have been deported, forcibly transferred or relocated from the territory of Ukraine to the temporarily occupied territories, and to Russia, in order to erase their identities. To date, hundreds of children have been repatriated to Ukraine and reunited with their families. Since 2014, Canada has imposed sanctions on more than 3,000 individuals and entities in Russia, Belarus, Moldova and Ukraine for their complicity in violating Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and their gross and systematic violations of human rights. Many of these sanctions have been implemented in coordination with Canada’s partners.

    Related links

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister to participate in ASEAN Summit and the 25th meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that he will participate in the ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Laos, and the 25th meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group at the U.S. air base in Ramstein, Germany. 

    For almost half a century, Canada and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have been partners in promoting peace, prosperity, and progress. As we create good-paying jobs, fight climate change, and grow our economies, Canada and ASEAN stand united to make life better for people in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.

    At the Summit, from October 10 to 11, 2024, Prime Minister Trudeau will highlight Canada and ASEAN’s long-standing commitment toward building a fairer, more prosperous future for people on both sides of the Pacific. As work toward a Canada-ASEAN free trade agreement continues, the Prime Minister will note progress on last year’s ASEAN-Canada Strategic Partnership and underscore the importance of sustainable long-term growth that works for everyone, empowers women and girls, and is anchored in the clean energy transition.

    ASEAN is one of the world’s fastest growing economic regions. That’s why Canada is increasing trade and investment with ASEAN and putting Canadians at the forefront of this immense opportunity. As a group, ASEAN member states represented Canada’s fourth largest merchandise trading partner in 2023, with increased progress in agriculture, agrifood, and digital trade between our peoples. Greater trade and investment mean more jobs, more innovation, and more growth.

    Building on Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, Prime Minister Trudeau will also meet with ASEAN partners at the ASEAN-Canada Special Summit to enhance collaboration so we can effectively support prosperity and stability throughout the region. He will emphasize Canada’s constructive role in addressing new and emerging challenges to peace and security, including malicious cyber activity and threats from cybercrime.

    This visit will mark the first official visit of a Canadian Prime Minister to Laos. As Canada and Laos celebrate 50 years of bilateral relations this year, Prime Minister Trudeau will work to advance shared interests and forge even stronger ties between our two countries.

    The Prime Minister will then participate in the 25th meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group at the U.S. air base in Ramstein, Germany, on October 12, 2024.

    Hosted by the President of the United States of America, Joe Biden, leaders from the international community will reaffirm global solidarity with Ukraine as it defends itself against Russia’s unjustifiable war of aggression. Building on the progress made at the NATO Summit in Washington, D.C., United States of America, earlier this year, Prime Minister Trudeau will emphasize the importance of sustained international support for Ukraine and a just and lasting peace for Ukrainians.

    The Prime Minister will highlight the importance of addressing Ukraine’s immediate defence and security needs, including the provision of military equipment, security assistance and training, and economic support. He will also highlight Canada’s commitment to Ukraine’s long-term security, as evidenced by the Agreement on security cooperation between Canada and Ukraine, which was concluded earlier this year. 

    Canada will continue to work closely with its international partners to support Ukraine and Ukrainians as they continue to fight for their freedom, independence, and democracy.

    Quote

    “Shared challenges require shared solutions – that’s what the ASEAN Summit and the Ukraine Defense Contact Group are all about. Whether it’s fighting climate change, creating good-paying jobs, or strengthening democracy, Canada is playing a leadership role in creating a better, safer, and fairer future for people across the world.”

    Quick Facts

    • ASEAN is a regional intergovernmental organization comprising 10 member states. The objectives of ASEAN are to:
      • Speed up economic growth, social progress, and cultural development.
      • Promote regional peace and stability and respect for justice and the rule of law.
      • Increase collaboration across a range of economic, social, cultural, technical, scientific, and administrative spheres.
    • Together, ASEAN as a regional bloc represents Canada’s fourth-largest trading partner, with over $38.8 billion in bilateral trade in 2023.
    • Last year, Canada and ASEAN launched a strategic partnership for further collaboration in strategic areas of mutual interest, including peace and security and economic and socio-cultural co-operation.
    • Canada became an ASEAN dialogue partner in 1977 and is one of 11 partners with this designation.
    • ASEAN Dialogue Partners co-operate on political and security issues, regional integration, economic interests, inter-faith dialogue, transnational crime and counterterrorism, disaster risk reduction, and other areas. Other Dialogue Partners include: Australia, China, the European Union, India, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America.
    • Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy advances and defends Canada’s interests by supporting a more secure, prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable Indo-Pacific region while protecting Canada’s national and economic security at home and abroad.
    • The Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) was created by the United States Secretary of Defense in April 2022 to allow Allies and partners to synchronize donations to Ukraine, consult and co-ordinate military assistance, and build up the capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU). Convening monthly at the ministerial level, the UDCG now brings together more than 50 countries.
    • Since the launch of Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) has trained more than 43,000 members of the AFU. Canada has announced the extension of this mission until March 2026 so the CAF can continue to respond to Ukraine’s training needs.
    • Since 2022, Canada has committed over $19.5 billion in multifaceted support to Ukraine. This includes over $12.4 billion in financial assistance, which has helped the Ukrainian government to continue to operate, including by delivering essential government services and pensions to Ukrainians. Other assistance includes over $4.5 billion in military aid and equipment donations, $358.2 million in humanitarian assistance, $442 million in development assistance, and over $210 million in security and stabilization programming.
    • Experts estimate that since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, thousands of Ukrainian children have been deported, forcibly transferred, or otherwise displaced from Ukraine to temporarily occupied territories and to Russia, for the purpose of erasing their Ukrainian identity. To date, hundreds of children have been returned to Ukraine and reunited with their families.
    • Since 2014, Canada has imposed sanctions on more than 3,000 individuals and entities in Russia, Belarus, Moldova, and Ukraine for their complicity in the violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity as well as gross and systematic human rights violations. Many of these sanctions have been implemented in co-ordination with Canada’s partners.

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Canada has always had a ‘tap on, tap off’ immigration policy aimed primarily at filling jobs

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Thomas Klassen, Professor, School of Public Policy and Administration, York University, Canada

    The federal government will soon announce its immigration plan and immigration levels for the next three years. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Liberals have already signalled, however, that the number of immigrants will decline from the levels of the past several years.

    The government has been under fire for its immigration policy and must move carefully with a federal election likely next year. The increase in housing costs is cited by critics as consequence of too many immigrants arriving in Canada over a short period of time.



    Read more:
    What’s behind the dramatic shift in Canadian public opinion about immigration levels?

    Sharp increases and decreases in the number of immigrants are nothing new in Canada’s history. Historically, immigration policy has been “tap on, tap off,” with immigration levels increased when the unemployment rate falls and reduced when unemployment rises. Immigration has always been thinly veiled labour market policy; that is, a way to fill jobs.

    Influx of immigrants

    In 1913, an estimated 400,900 immigrants arrived in Canada, accounting for five per cent of the country’s population. At that time, the government sought farmers to settle the Prairies and allow the western expansion of Canada.

    It took more than a century — until 2021 under Trudeau — before a larger number of immigrants was accepted in a single year; 406,000 were admitted.

    But those who came in 2021 accounted for only one per cent of the nation’s much larger population, rather than five per cent in 1913.

    When the Liberals came to power in late 2015, the national unemployment rate was seven per cent and dropping. By 2019, it was under six per cent, a level not experienced for nearly half a century.

    The economy was humming with low unemployment and inflation, allowing the immigration tap to be turned on. From 2017-19, 300,000 immigrants were accepted each year, but from 2021 to 2023, that increased to a record high of about 430,000 annually.

    In the past decade, employers have benefited from high levels of immigration and voiced few complaints. Businesses know that labour costs are kept low when immigrants flood into the job market.

    International students

    What has made the nation’s immigration policy distinct under Trudeau is that the tap has also been turned on for international students. These students are not immigrants, but rather are allowed to enter Canada and, initially, remain only during the time they are studying.

    In the past several decades Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States have become extraordinarily attractive for college and university students.

    Middle-class families in China, India, Brazil and other countries are willing to spend what is required to send their children to study abroad.

    Universities and colleges covet international students as a source of income since they pay twice or more what local students pay in tuition.

    The additional income earned by post-secondary institutions from international students has allowed provincial governments to limit tuition fee increases for Canadian students. For example, the Ontario government reduced tuition fees by 10 per cent in 2019 and has kept tuition frozen for local students ever since.

    Permanent citizenship pathways

    When the Liberals came to power, there were about 300,000 international students in Canada. Last year, that number reached one million. Immigration rules were tweaked in the past decade to open paths to permanent citizenship for some international students and their families.

    Some believe the combination of high immigration rates and a large number of international students has created an unsustainable situation as housing costs in many parts of Canada increase significantly over the past several years.



    Read more:
    International students are not to blame for Canada’s housing crisis

    Suddenly, earlier this year, the federal government placed limits on the number of student visas it would issue annually to reduce the flow of students coming from abroad. Provinces and educational institutions were furious, especially by the lack of advance notice and the loss of expected revenues.

    However, rapid swings in immigration policy are a feature of Canada’s history. After welcoming 400,000 immigrants in 1913, only 10 per cent of that number were granted entry five years later.

    Sharp U-turns

    The causes that necessitated the recent sharp U-turn in the number of international student visas — and limiting the pathways to students and their dependants to become immigrants — are instructive.

    The federal government ignored the fact that colleges and universities were not equipped for the massive ramp-up of foreign student enrolment. Some post-secondary institutions, particularly those operated for profit, took advantage of incoming students by providing sub-standard education.

    A closer monitoring of the impact of high numbers of international students would have allowed the federal government to more gradually adjust the visa tap. More consultation between all levels of government would have permitted problems to quickly reach the appropriate decision-makers.

    Moving forward, the federal government would do well to better monitor the impacts of immigration levels. More consultation with other levels of government, employers and stakeholders will result in more gradual adjustments to the number of newcomers who are — and always have been — critical to Canada’s economic and cultural successes.

    Thomas Klassen 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. Canada has always had a ‘tap on, tap off’ immigration policy aimed primarily at filling jobs – https://theconversation.com/canada-has-always-had-a-tap-on-tap-off-immigration-policy-aimed-primarily-at-filling-jobs-239896

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Readout of Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco’s Trip to the G7 Interior Minister’s Meeting in Italy

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Deputy Attorney General (Deputy AG) Lisa Monaco traveled to Mirabella Eclano, Italy, on Oct. 3-4 for the G7 Interior Ministers Meeting, where she highlighted the importance of international partnerships in supporting the rule of law and protecting against persistent global threats.

    The Deputy AG described the current threat environment to her G7 colleagues as a time where the threats have never been more diverse — from more aggressive actors — and all fueled by international conflicts and emerging, disruptive technologies — especially cyber and AI. She urged the ministers to stay united against threats posed by autocratic nations like Russia, Iran, and China looking to project power at home and abroad through transnational repression, malicious cyber activity, the abuse of emerging technologies, such as AI and cryptocurrencies, and malign foreign influence — especially in a global election year.

    The Deputy AG joined her colleagues in committing to deepening international collaboration against these threats, as well as against terrorism, malign cyber actors, and synthetic drugs such as fentanyl. She shared how the Justice Department is targeting the broader ecosystem that allows cyber criminals and malign nation state actors to flourish — by prioritizing disruptions and placing victims first — and also highlighted how the Department is tackling all aspects of the deadly fentanyl supply chain, in every part of the globe, to protect innocent lives.

    Ahead of the one-year anniversary of Hamas’s brutal October 7 terrorist attacks in Israel, the Deputy AG and Ministers unequivocally condemned terrorism and violent extremism in all forms, both online and offline. They pledged to continue the information sharing and law enforcement partnerships that are integral to thwarting acts of terror around the world. 

    The Deputy AG and ministers also met virtually with Ukrainian Interior Minister, Ihor Klymenko, and reaffirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine and their resolve to hold Russia accountable for the war crimes and atrocities it is perpetrating in its war of aggression. She reiterated the need for sustained coordination in these efforts and underscored the Justice Department’s continued efforts to deprive the Russian war machine of funding and supplies. She joined the other ministers in announcing new efforts to help Ukraine build the rule of law and fight corruption, including through a new G7 Anti-Corruption Task Force.

    As part of their efforts to build cooperation and coordination among the G7 to promote the rule of law around the world, the Deputy AG and Ministers discussed common frameworks to harness the promise of AI while also protecting against the perils of its abuse. The Deputy AG cautioned that AI is changing how crimes are committed, from intensifying cyberattacks, to making fraud scams more believable, to creating child exploitative material, to supercharging malign foreign influence in elections.

    On the margins of the G7 Ministerial, the Deputy AG held several bilateral meetings, including with United Kingdom Home Secretary Yvette Cooper; Canadian Minister of Public Safety Dominic Leblanc; German Minister of Interior Nancy Faeser; and European Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson. The Deputy AG also met with the G7 host, Italian Minister of the Interior Matteo Piantedosi, to thank him for his leadership of the G7 and his hospitality. In all these discussions, the Deputy AG reinforced the steadfast commitment of the Justice Department to partnerships that uphold the rule of law and strengthen democracies around the world. 

    Italian Minister of the Interior Matteo Piantedosi welcoming Deputy AG Monaco to the G7 Ministerial. Photo credit: Italian Ministry of the Interior. 
    Deputy AG Monaco with UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper. Photo credit: UK Home Office. 
    Deputy AG Monaco with G7 leaders. Photo credit: Italian Ministry of the Interior.
    Deputy AG Monaco meeting with Italian Minister of the Interior Matteo Piantedosi. Photo credit: Italian Ministry of the Interior.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Could NZ foreign policy be Trumped? Why the government will be hoping Kamala Harris wins the US election

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Robert G. Patman, Professor of International Relations, University of Otago

    Getty Images

    One of the political ironies of the race for the White House is that the foreign policy interests of New Zealand’s centre-right government are probably best served by Democratic candidate Kamala Harris winning.

    Since the end of World War II, all New Zealand governments have supported multilateralism and an international rules-based order enshrined in the institutions of the United Nations.

    The relationship with the United States has reflected that, and tends to outlast the periodic fluctuations associated with changes in government and policy in Wellington or Washington.

    New Zealand’s current National-led coalition inherited close relations with the US, too. American visitor numbers were second only to Australians last year. The US is our third largest export market. And the two countries remain strategically linked within the Five Eyes intelligence sharing arrangement.

    Nevertheless, one of the key foreign policy goals of the coalition is to strengthen alignment with traditional allies such as the US. Given the very different worldviews of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, the November 5 election will have a large bearing on how successful any push for closer relations with the US can be.

    Closer relations in the balance

    On the one hand, Republican candidate Trump is opposed to multilateral institutions, unless they explicitly serve US national interests. And he wants to reverse the impact of globalisation by constraining immigration, free trade and global governance.

    Nationalist slogans like “America First” promise a return to a so-called golden era of patriotism and sovereignty: a top-down world where the greatest power of all is unencumbered and free to assert its dominance.

    On the other hand, Harris would seem to support a more traditional US foreign policy agenda. This recognises the importance of international institutions and alliances in a world where “isolation is not insulation”.

    Whoever occupies the White House next, then, is likely to have a significant impact on New Zealand foreign policy.

    Isolation and dominance: Trump plays the immigration card at Republican National Convention in July 18.
    Getty Images

    Power plays and the Pacific

    First, Trump’s belief in an international system run by great powers would seem to be a recipe for depriving smaller states like New Zealand of a voice on international issues that affect them.

    Second, New Zealand’s regional focus on ties with Pacific Island nations – underpinned by close people-to-people links and a significant proportion of the country’s overseas development aid programme – is more likely to be complemented by a Harris foreign policy.

    Outgoing president Joe Biden reversed decades of US neglect of much of the Pacific, which had played to the advantage of other external powers – notably China.

    The Biden team launched the annual US-Pacific Islands Summit in 2022. And Kamala Harris played an active role in delivering US$800 million in development and climate assistance to Pacific Island nations in 2022-23.

    Whether Trump will maintain this enhanced diplomatic and economic engagement in the Pacific (and elsewhere) is questionable. Similarly, after Biden rejoined the Paris Climate Accord, Trump will probably quit it for a second time.

    Kamala Harris hosts Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House in September.
    Getty Images

    AUKUS and Ukraine

    Third, the New Zealand government faces the delicate task of navigating relations with an increasingly assertive China – the country’s biggest trade partner – while pursuing its goal of moving closer to the US.

    Since March 2023, successive New Zealand governments have been considering joining an arrangement to share advanced defence technologies under pillar two of the AUKUS security partnership that aims to deter a rising China in the Indo-Pacific region.

    It remains to be seen how China would react if New Zealand did join. But Trump’s insistence on US primacy in any multilateral agreement could make it more difficult for the government to win domestic support for pillar two membership.

    Even outside the AUKUS debate, Trump is more likely to insist allies spend more on defence than they did traditionally.

    Fourth, New Zealand has a big stake in the failure of Russia’s attempted annexation of Ukraine. Wellington’s interests are clearly more in line with Harris’ pledge to maintain support for Ukraine to restore its territorial integrity.

    Trump’s promise to end the war within 24 hours, on the other hand, could probably only be achieved by giving Vladimir Putin what he wants.

    The Middle East and the UN

    Finally, there do not seem to be substantive policy differences between Trump and Harris on the catastrophic situation in Gaza, and increasingly Lebanon.

    There remains a slim possibility a Harris administration might recognise unconditional support for the Israeli government of Benjamin Netanyahu is not sustainable for a superpower whose foreign policy is supposed to be driven by universal values and respect for international law.

    But this would be near impossible for Trump. Indeed, he would probably provide Netanyahu with even greater support.

    Overall, the foreign policy interests of the National-led coalition seem to align more with a Harris presidency than one led by Trump.

    But even if Harris wins, the alignment of interests will not be perfect. US exceptionalism – an informal ideology that claims the nation is a political exemplar for the rest of the world – and Washington’s veto power in the UN security Council are likely to remain constraining factors on the New Zealand-US relationship.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Could NZ foreign policy be Trumped? Why the government will be hoping Kamala Harris wins the US election – https://theconversation.com/could-nz-foreign-policy-be-trumped-why-the-government-will-be-hoping-kamala-harris-wins-the-us-election-240538

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum brings together executives of major companies, government officials and industry experts

    Source: Rosneft

    Headline: 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum brings together executives of major companies, government officials and industry experts

    Government officials from the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China and executives from over 100 major Russian and Chinese companies have attended the 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum.

    The reports on the development of energy cooperation between the two countries at the Forum were presented by Igor Sechin, Executive Secretary of the Commission for the President of the Russian Federation on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry and environmental safety, Chief Executive Officer of Rosneft Oil Company; Alexander Novak, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation; Han Zheng, Vice Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China; Dai Houliang, Chairman of the CNPC Board of Directors; CEOs of Russian and Chinese companies. The Forum was also attended by ministers and government officials from the two countries, as well as representatives of the scientific community.

    The strong participation once again confirmed the RCEBF’s status as the most important platform for shaping the key areas of energy dialogue between Russia and China.

    The Forum was held in a face-to-face distance format at two venues in Moscow and Beijing, with a video bridge between them.

    UPWARD DEVELOPMENT

    President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation and President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China sent greetings to the Forum participants, in which they noted the positive dynamics of the development of Russian-Chinese energy cooperation.

    In particular, Vladimir Putin noted in his address that, despite the complexity of the international situation, relations between the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China continue to develop in an upward direction. The energy sector remains one of the key and most dynamic areas of economic cooperation between the two countries.

    “The Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum plays an increasingly prominent role in expanding cooperation in such an important sector, facilitating regular dialogue between representatives of government agencies, leading industry corporations, banking institutions and expert circles of the two countries. One of the Forum’s most vital activities is the creation of the “Atlas of Russian-Chinese Energy Cooperation Investments”. There is no doubt that the development of this unique information and analysis platform opens up new opportunities for mutually beneficial commercial initiatives,” reads the address of the Russian President.

    CORNERSTONE OF CHINA-RUSSIA COOPERATION

    In his welcoming address to the Forum, China’s President Xi Jinping declared energy to be the cornerstone of cooperation between China and Russia.

    According to the PRC President, Beijing intends to build a closer partnership with Moscow in the energy sector. “The energy engagement between China and Russia is a cornerstone of practical cooperation between the two countries and also serves as an effective force for global energy security,” reads Xi Jinping’s address.

    Russia and China’s energy cooperation demonstrates sustainability despite external challenges, the PRC President said.

    “In the face of external risks and challenges, Russia and China are intensifying interaction and coordination, promoting major cooperation projects, demonstrating the high sustainability of Russian-Chinese energy cooperation,” reads Xi Jinping’s address.

    UNIQUE OPPORTUNITIES

    Igor Sechin, Executive Secretary of the Commission for the President of the Russian Federation on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry and environmental safety, Chief Executive Officer of Rosneft Oil Company, delivered an address at the opening of the 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum devoted to the development of the energy dialogue between the two countries.

    By the end of this year, the trade turnover between Russia and China may reach $180-190 billion, Rosneft CEO believes. According to him, the figure has already reached $153.9 billion in ten months.

    Thus, Igor Sechin added, the goal of reaching $200 billion in trade turnover may be achieved even earlier than in 2024, as previously planned.

    Igor Sechin noted that Xi Jingping’s 2015 proposal at the rostrum of the UN to create a “community of one destiny for the humankind”, which underlay Chinese foreign policy (as part of the preamble to China’s Constitution), was a worthy response to the challenges of the growing turbulence. “The Western opponents cannot or do not want to understand the great humanitarian meaning of this idea, rejecting the concept of common destiny because of certain ideological considerations,” Igor Sechin believes. “They do not want to understand that it is not about a uniformity, which is naturally alien to the Chinese cultural tradition.” “All phenomena develop together and do not impede one another, all principles are effected together and do not contradict one another,” says a Chinese wisdom. “China simply tells the world: “We are all in the same boat.” And it turns out that China is working to unite humanity, while the West is working to divide it,” Igor Sechin said.

    Rosneft CEO noted that China, like Russia, had always been against unilateral sanctions and economic pressure, which turned into selfish promotion of one’s own selfish interests, and had always advocated the universal and equal application of international law. “Nevertheless, we see that the PRC is subjected to commercial discrimination. The goal is openly set to stop China’s technological development and prevent China from becoming the Number 1 technological power,” the head of Rosneft believes. No wonder the 20th CPC Congress has paid so much attention to security, which is becoming a political priority.

    Rosneft CEO emphasised the unique opportunities that the cooperation offers in terms of ensuring China’s and Russia’s economic security in sensitive areas. “In the field of resource supply, including energy resources, Russia is a reliable supplier with a huge potential that is capable of expanding. As for production and technological logistics, our partnership here seems to be the most protected in terms of security,” Igor Sechin said.

    Russian energy companies, Sechin said, were ready to cooperate with Chinese partners in all areas—“in coal, in gas, in oil, in electricity and through Rosatom.”

    Rosneft CEO noted that the Company had always promoted integral cooperation with Chinese partners along the entire technological chain: that is exploration and production, refining, power generation, sales at potential markets, including retail sales. “As a rule, such cooperation implies exchange of shares, setup of joint ventures, supply of equipment, and technological partnership,” he said.

    POTENTIAL FOR GROWTH IN ENERGY EXPORTS

    Russia’s oil exports to China in January-October 2022 increased by 9.5% year-on-year to reach almost 72 million tonnes. This put Russia in second place among the suppliers of this fuel to Beijing, only slightly behind Saudi Arabia (73.8 million tonnes), Igor Sechin said.

    For his part, Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak acknowledged the possibility of building new oil pipelines to China.

    Rosneft CEO also reminded the audience about the Vostok Oil project that “would provide long-term, reliable, and guaranteed energy supplies to Asia’s growing economies.” The project should produce 115 million tonnes of oil by 2033, equivalent to 2.5% of current world production.

    Russia also retains great potential for increasing hydrocarbon exports. For example, Sechin estimates that Rosneft alone has more than 2 trillion cubic metres of gas reserves in Eastern Siberia and the Far East that could be delivered to China.

    According to Igor Sechin, Russian pipeline gas deliveries could increase by 60% this year. The figure will exceed 100 billion cubic metres a year in the foreseeable future, and Rosneft CEO is confident that this is not even the limit.

    Executive Secretary of the Presidential Commission on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry Igor Sechin noted the prospects for liquefied natural gas: “Today Russia exports to China relatively small volumes of LNG, but in the future, the volume of LNG supplies may become comparable to our supplies from pipeline projects.”

    For his part, China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) Chairman Dai Houliang pointed to the importance of proper operation of oil pipelines from Russia to China and the Yamal LNG project, in which CNPC has a stake.

    “The implementation of the Sino-Russian gas pipeline through the Far East route and the Arctic LNG-2 project should also be accelerated,” he added.

    Furthermore, according to Igor Sechin, Russia accounts for almost a quarter of China’s coal imports—53 million tonnes in the first ten months of this year. Only Indonesia supplies more coal to the PRC.

    China buys from Russia not only hydrocarbons, but also electricity. Between January and October, its supplies grew by 33% and set a new record.

    SETTLEMENTS IN NATIONAL CURRENCIES

    As Alexander Novak noted, Russia and China were switching to settlements in national currencies when trading energy resources: “This work helps to prevent risks and facilitate the transformation of the rouble and yuan to the status of world reserve currencies.” In addition, the two countries’ central banks are working on a settlement system outside SWIFT.

    A significant step in the development of settlement in national currencies was Rosneft’s 2022 placement of an issue of bonds in yuan totalling 15 billion. According to bank analysts, this was the largest corporate bond market placement in the Russian market ever.

    Executive Secretary of the Presidential Commission on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry Igor Sechin noted that settlements under foreign economic contracts, primarily for the supply of energy products, had been promptly adapted to the new conditions. “I consider it important to develop clearing payments between China and Russia, which could then be joined by other interested countries (EAEU, SCO, BRICS). The existence of an independent settlement system is an important component of financial sovereignty in the contemporary world,” the head of Rosneft said.

    INVESTMENT ATLAS

    A significant contribution to the development of energy cooperation between the two countries was the publication of the Atlas of Russian-Chinese Energy Cooperation Investments. This document is a comprehensive and practical guide to the implementation of joint projects. Its first part, presented at the previous Forum by the Russian side, was devoted to a review of the current state and prospects of development of the fuel and energy complex of the Russian Federation.

    During the 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum, Zhang Jianhua, Head of the State Energy Administration of the People’s Republic of China, gave a presentation on the Chinese part of the Atlas.

    The Forum brought together over 300 representatives of major Russian and Chinese companies in the oil and gas, power, coal, nuclear and renewable energy sectors, heads of federal executive authorities, power equipment manufacturers, and representatives of the financial and IT sectors. The participants discussed in detail the key issues of bilateral cooperation in the energy sector. On the sidelines of the Forum, contracts were discussed and concluded between Russian and Chinese partners on energy supply, technology development, joint research, personnel training, and involvement of Chinese companies in the procurement of goods, works and services for projects implemented in Russia.

    The Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum has been held since 2018, in line with the agreements reached by President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation and President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China. The two leaders outlined the main objective of the Forum, that is to expand cooperation, find new areas for investment and implement promising projects in the energy sphere in Russia and China.

    Since its inception, the Forum takes place under the auspices of the Commission for the President of the Russian Federation on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry and environmental safety and the State Energy Administration of the People’s Republic of China, and is co-organised by Rosneft and China National Petroleum Corporation.

    Rosneft
    Information Division
    November 29, 2022

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum brings together executives of major companies, government officials and industry experts

    Source: Rosneft

    Headline: 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum brings together executives of major companies, government officials and industry experts

    Government officials from the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China and executives from over 100 major Russian and Chinese companies have attended the 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum.

    The reports on the development of energy cooperation between the two countries at the Forum were presented by Igor Sechin, Executive Secretary of the Commission for the President of the Russian Federation on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry and environmental safety, Chief Executive Officer of Rosneft Oil Company; Alexander Novak, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation; Han Zheng, Vice Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China; Dai Houliang, Chairman of the CNPC Board of Directors; CEOs of Russian and Chinese companies. The Forum was also attended by ministers and government officials from the two countries, as well as representatives of the scientific community.

    The strong participation once again confirmed the RCEBF’s status as the most important platform for shaping the key areas of energy dialogue between Russia and China.

    The Forum was held in a face-to-face distance format at two venues in Moscow and Beijing, with a video bridge between them.

    UPWARD DEVELOPMENT

    President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation and President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China sent greetings to the Forum participants, in which they noted the positive dynamics of the development of Russian-Chinese energy cooperation.

    In particular, Vladimir Putin noted in his address that, despite the complexity of the international situation, relations between the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China continue to develop in an upward direction. The energy sector remains one of the key and most dynamic areas of economic cooperation between the two countries.

    “The Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum plays an increasingly prominent role in expanding cooperation in such an important sector, facilitating regular dialogue between representatives of government agencies, leading industry corporations, banking institutions and expert circles of the two countries. One of the Forum’s most vital activities is the creation of the “Atlas of Russian-Chinese Energy Cooperation Investments”. There is no doubt that the development of this unique information and analysis platform opens up new opportunities for mutually beneficial commercial initiatives,” reads the address of the Russian President.

    CORNERSTONE OF CHINA-RUSSIA COOPERATION

    In his welcoming address to the Forum, China’s President Xi Jinping declared energy to be the cornerstone of cooperation between China and Russia.

    According to the PRC President, Beijing intends to build a closer partnership with Moscow in the energy sector. “The energy engagement between China and Russia is a cornerstone of practical cooperation between the two countries and also serves as an effective force for global energy security,” reads Xi Jinping’s address.

    Russia and China’s energy cooperation demonstrates sustainability despite external challenges, the PRC President said.

    “In the face of external risks and challenges, Russia and China are intensifying interaction and coordination, promoting major cooperation projects, demonstrating the high sustainability of Russian-Chinese energy cooperation,” reads Xi Jinping’s address.

    UNIQUE OPPORTUNITIES

    Igor Sechin, Executive Secretary of the Commission for the President of the Russian Federation on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry and environmental safety, Chief Executive Officer of Rosneft Oil Company, delivered an address at the opening of the 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum devoted to the development of the energy dialogue between the two countries.

    By the end of this year, the trade turnover between Russia and China may reach $180-190 billion, Rosneft CEO believes. According to him, the figure has already reached $153.9 billion in ten months.

    Thus, Igor Sechin added, the goal of reaching $200 billion in trade turnover may be achieved even earlier than in 2024, as previously planned.

    Igor Sechin noted that Xi Jingping’s 2015 proposal at the rostrum of the UN to create a “community of one destiny for the humankind”, which underlay Chinese foreign policy (as part of the preamble to China’s Constitution), was a worthy response to the challenges of the growing turbulence. “The Western opponents cannot or do not want to understand the great humanitarian meaning of this idea, rejecting the concept of common destiny because of certain ideological considerations,” Igor Sechin believes. “They do not want to understand that it is not about a uniformity, which is naturally alien to the Chinese cultural tradition.” “All phenomena develop together and do not impede one another, all principles are effected together and do not contradict one another,” says a Chinese wisdom. “China simply tells the world: “We are all in the same boat.” And it turns out that China is working to unite humanity, while the West is working to divide it,” Igor Sechin said.

    Rosneft CEO noted that China, like Russia, had always been against unilateral sanctions and economic pressure, which turned into selfish promotion of one’s own selfish interests, and had always advocated the universal and equal application of international law. “Nevertheless, we see that the PRC is subjected to commercial discrimination. The goal is openly set to stop China’s technological development and prevent China from becoming the Number 1 technological power,” the head of Rosneft believes. No wonder the 20th CPC Congress has paid so much attention to security, which is becoming a political priority.

    Rosneft CEO emphasised the unique opportunities that the cooperation offers in terms of ensuring China’s and Russia’s economic security in sensitive areas. “In the field of resource supply, including energy resources, Russia is a reliable supplier with a huge potential that is capable of expanding. As for production and technological logistics, our partnership here seems to be the most protected in terms of security,” Igor Sechin said.

    Russian energy companies, Sechin said, were ready to cooperate with Chinese partners in all areas—“in coal, in gas, in oil, in electricity and through Rosatom.”

    Rosneft CEO noted that the Company had always promoted integral cooperation with Chinese partners along the entire technological chain: that is exploration and production, refining, power generation, sales at potential markets, including retail sales. “As a rule, such cooperation implies exchange of shares, setup of joint ventures, supply of equipment, and technological partnership,” he said.

    POTENTIAL FOR GROWTH IN ENERGY EXPORTS

    Russia’s oil exports to China in January-October 2022 increased by 9.5% year-on-year to reach almost 72 million tonnes. This put Russia in second place among the suppliers of this fuel to Beijing, only slightly behind Saudi Arabia (73.8 million tonnes), Igor Sechin said.

    For his part, Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak acknowledged the possibility of building new oil pipelines to China.

    Rosneft CEO also reminded the audience about the Vostok Oil project that “would provide long-term, reliable, and guaranteed energy supplies to Asia’s growing economies.” The project should produce 115 million tonnes of oil by 2033, equivalent to 2.5% of current world production.

    Russia also retains great potential for increasing hydrocarbon exports. For example, Sechin estimates that Rosneft alone has more than 2 trillion cubic metres of gas reserves in Eastern Siberia and the Far East that could be delivered to China.

    According to Igor Sechin, Russian pipeline gas deliveries could increase by 60% this year. The figure will exceed 100 billion cubic metres a year in the foreseeable future, and Rosneft CEO is confident that this is not even the limit.

    Executive Secretary of the Presidential Commission on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry Igor Sechin noted the prospects for liquefied natural gas: “Today Russia exports to China relatively small volumes of LNG, but in the future, the volume of LNG supplies may become comparable to our supplies from pipeline projects.”

    For his part, China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) Chairman Dai Houliang pointed to the importance of proper operation of oil pipelines from Russia to China and the Yamal LNG project, in which CNPC has a stake.

    “The implementation of the Sino-Russian gas pipeline through the Far East route and the Arctic LNG-2 project should also be accelerated,” he added.

    Furthermore, according to Igor Sechin, Russia accounts for almost a quarter of China’s coal imports—53 million tonnes in the first ten months of this year. Only Indonesia supplies more coal to the PRC.

    China buys from Russia not only hydrocarbons, but also electricity. Between January and October, its supplies grew by 33% and set a new record.

    SETTLEMENTS IN NATIONAL CURRENCIES

    As Alexander Novak noted, Russia and China were switching to settlements in national currencies when trading energy resources: “This work helps to prevent risks and facilitate the transformation of the rouble and yuan to the status of world reserve currencies.” In addition, the two countries’ central banks are working on a settlement system outside SWIFT.

    A significant step in the development of settlement in national currencies was Rosneft’s 2022 placement of an issue of bonds in yuan totalling 15 billion. According to bank analysts, this was the largest corporate bond market placement in the Russian market ever.

    Executive Secretary of the Presidential Commission on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry Igor Sechin noted that settlements under foreign economic contracts, primarily for the supply of energy products, had been promptly adapted to the new conditions. “I consider it important to develop clearing payments between China and Russia, which could then be joined by other interested countries (EAEU, SCO, BRICS). The existence of an independent settlement system is an important component of financial sovereignty in the contemporary world,” the head of Rosneft said.

    INVESTMENT ATLAS

    A significant contribution to the development of energy cooperation between the two countries was the publication of the Atlas of Russian-Chinese Energy Cooperation Investments. This document is a comprehensive and practical guide to the implementation of joint projects. Its first part, presented at the previous Forum by the Russian side, was devoted to a review of the current state and prospects of development of the fuel and energy complex of the Russian Federation.

    During the 4th Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum, Zhang Jianhua, Head of the State Energy Administration of the People’s Republic of China, gave a presentation on the Chinese part of the Atlas.

    The Forum brought together over 300 representatives of major Russian and Chinese companies in the oil and gas, power, coal, nuclear and renewable energy sectors, heads of federal executive authorities, power equipment manufacturers, and representatives of the financial and IT sectors. The participants discussed in detail the key issues of bilateral cooperation in the energy sector. On the sidelines of the Forum, contracts were discussed and concluded between Russian and Chinese partners on energy supply, technology development, joint research, personnel training, and involvement of Chinese companies in the procurement of goods, works and services for projects implemented in Russia.

    The Russian-Chinese Energy Business Forum has been held since 2018, in line with the agreements reached by President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation and President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China. The two leaders outlined the main objective of the Forum, that is to expand cooperation, find new areas for investment and implement promising projects in the energy sphere in Russia and China.

    Since its inception, the Forum takes place under the auspices of the Commission for the President of the Russian Federation on the strategy of development of the fuel and energy industry and environmental safety and the State Energy Administration of the People’s Republic of China, and is co-organised by Rosneft and China National Petroleum Corporation.

    Rosneft
    Information Division
    November 29, 2022

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI China: Performance staged to mark 70th founding anniversary of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps

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

    Performance staged to mark 70th founding anniversary of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps

    URUMQI, Oct. 6 — An artistic performance was staged in Urumqi, capital of northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, on Sunday night to celebrate the 70th founding anniversary of the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps.

    Vice Premier He Lifeng, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, led a central delegation to watch the gala together with people of various ethnic groups from all walks of life.

    The performance displayed notable achievements made by the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps over the past seven decades, especially its progress in deepening reform, promoting high-quality development and pursuing modernization since the 18th CPC National Congress in 2012.

    The central delegation comprising 24 members arrived in Urumqi on Sunday afternoon to attend celebration activities.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Diversified demand boosts China’s holiday tourism market

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

    BEIJING, Oct. 6 — China has seen a robust tourism market during the week-long National Day holiday. While patriotic sentiments were present, cultural tourism and new travel trends, such as small-town trips, stood out as defining aspects of the 2024 holiday.

    Official data showed that during the first three days of the holiday that started on Oct. 1, nearly 900 million people traveled across regions in China. The Ministry of Transport predicted that the total number of cross-regional travelers during the holiday would reach 1.94 billion, with an average of 277 million travelers per day — a 0.7 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

    Ranging from traditional clothing performances to immersive heritage experiences, cultural tourism flourished across the country. In the Ancient Culture Street in Tianjin, north China, a Hanfu performance captivated onlookers, many of whom wore traditional attire. This heritage-rich area saw over 300,000 visitors and generated more than 25 million yuan (about 3.56 million U.S. dollars) in revenue in just two days.

    Beijing’s Central Axis, newly recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, also proved a popular destination. Tourist interest in visiting the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and other locations along the axis grew significantly — with bookings increasing by 69 percent compared to last year. Cultural souvenirs, such as creative postcards and themed merchandise, further enriched the tourist experience.

    Museum visits have become an important part of holiday activities for many travelers. In northeast China’s Liaoning Province, the Liaoning Provincial Museum displayed an original painting by an emperor of the Song Dynasty (960-1279), attracting tourists from across the country. Some museum-goers have queued for hours to view this artwork.

    A tourist surnamed Li from Shanghai considered visiting the exhibition a key part of her family trip. “Visiting museums can plant the seeds of culture in children’s minds from a young age. It’s a great way to travel,” she said.

    Data show that the number of traditional culture-themed scenic spots in China had increased from 2,230 in 2013 to nearly 4,000 in 2022, with approximately 80 percent of A-level tourist attractions incorporating various intangible cultural heritage projects.

    Small-town trips have also become popular in China, drawing young travelers seeking unique and indigenous experiences. According to data from leading online travel agency Ctrip, nearly half of the travelers bound for counties during the holiday were young people in their 20s and 30s who came from major cities like Beijing and Shanghai. Many of them opted for the tranquility of natural landscapes and local traditions to avoid urban crowds.

    On the morning of Oct. 1, a total of 123,000 people from across the country gathered at the Tian’anmen Square to witness the historic moment of the national flag being raised on the 75th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China. Many had been waiting there since the previous night.

    “I hope to give my child an unforgettable patriotic education. Watching the flag-raising ceremony is the most important part of our trip to Beijing,” said Zhang Ningli, a tourist from Zhejiang Province in east China.

    Ctrip data reveal that during this year’s National Day holiday, average daily orders for revolutionary-themed tourism in China had increased by 40 percent year on year.

    Zhao Wenzhi, president of the Guangdong Travel Service Association, believes that changing tourist demands are continuously fostering new cultural and tourism consumption scenarios, business formats and models, with the tourism market offering both more diverse experiences and richer options for travelers.

    Dai Bin, president of the China Tourism Academy, predicted that based on factors such as people’s travel intentions, booking indices and local tourism preparations, the number of travelers during the 2024 National Day holiday would likely reach a new record high.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China sees surge in return trips as holiday nears end

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

    China sees surge in return trips as holiday nears end

    Updated: October 7, 2024 08:40 Xinhua
    A policewoman helps passengers on the platform at Taizhou Railway Station in Taizhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province, Oct. 6, 2024. China sees a surge in return trips on Sunday as the week-long National Day holiday draws to a close. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Passengers wait to board a train at the platform at Hengyang East Railway Station in Hengyang City, central China’s Hunan Province, Oct. 6, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 6, 2024 shows the traffic on the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge in Nanjing, east China’s Jiangsu Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Passengers walk towards the exit at Nanjing Railway Station in Nanjing, east China’s Jiangsu Province, Oct. 6, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 6, 2024 shows the traffic on a bridge in Nantong, east China’s Jiangsu Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Passengers walk on the platform at Yantai Railway Station in Yantai, east China’s Shandong Province, Oct. 6, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Traffic stable as China’s golden-week holiday draws to close

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

    BEIJING, Oct. 6 — With China’s week-long National Day holiday nearing its end, return travel levels started to rise on Sunday, but the overall traffic situation remained stable, according to the traffic management bureau of the Ministry of Public Security.

    The National Day holiday, also known as “golden week,” is usually one of the peak seasons on China’s domestic tourism calendar. Expressways in China have run at full capacity, especially as they are toll-free during the holiday period.

    Data from the Ministry of Transport showed that from Oct. 1 to 4, cross-regional passenger turnover had surpassed 1.1 billion across the country. Additionally, it predicted that more than 1.5 billion self-driving tourist trips would be made during this year’s golden-week holiday from Oct. 1 to 7.

    As of Sunday, the overall traffic situation in China was stable and smooth, with no serious traffic jams or accidents reported.

    Return travel will peak on Monday, the last day of the holiday. The traffic management bureau has warned of speeding and driver fatigue, as well as possible poor weather.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Study reveals 9 endangered salamander species

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The latest cutting-edge research has confirmed that there are nine different species of the critically endangered Chinese giant salamander.

    Published recently in the Evolutionary Journal of the Linnean Society, the research led by the conservation charity that runs London Zoo has shone a new light on the ancient animal.

    A team from the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), an international conservation charity driven by science, working with partners in China, used genetic data to study the world’s largest amphibian, once thought to be a single species found across central and southern China.

    Chinese giant salamanders can grow up to 1.8 meters long. Their loose, baggy skin helps them absorb oxygen from the water, while tiny sensors across their bodies detect vibrations from worms, crustaceans, small fish, and frogs, compensating for their poor eyesight.

    “There is a high likelihood that Chinese giant salamanders face extinction in the wild, and it is extremely important to work collaboratively to prevent extinction being the fate of these ancient animals,” Ben Tapley, curator of reptiles and amphibians at London Zoo and one of the paper’s co-authors, told Xinhua.

    “Our research shows that there are up to nine different species of Chinese giant salamander, but only four have been named by scientists, and only two have had their conservation status assessed, with both being categorized as critically endangered,” Tapley added.

    “Chinese giant salamanders are recognized as critically endangered. All of the species we’ve now identified are at high risk of disappearing forever,” said Samuel Turvey, a researcher at ZSL and an author of the paper. “If we are to avoid losing the world’s largest amphibians, we need to act urgently to ensure that these newly-recognized species are formally recognized and legally protected.”

    “The possibility that Chinese giant salamanders may not be a single species has been suggested by researchers for 20 years, but by comparing levels of genetic difference seen across giant salamander populations with differences shown by other known salamander species, we can now confirm this for sure,” said Turvey. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Exit polls show Tunisian President Kais Saied winning presidential election

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Tunisian President Kais Saied (R, front) registers at a polling center in Tunis, Tunisia on Oct. 6, 2024. (Tunisian Presidency/Handout via Xinhua)

    Exit polls showed that Tunisian President Kais Saied is expected to win the presidential election on Sunday, Tunisian State TV reported.

    According to the estimated results of a poll by Sigma Conseil, a Tunisian survey company, Saied won 89.2 percent of the vote, followed by Ayachi Zammel with 6.9 percent and Zouhair Maghzaoui with 3.9 percent.

    In a press briefing following the election, Farouk Bouaskar, president of the Independent High Authority for Elections (ISIE), said the preliminary turnout in the presidential election reached 27.7 percent.

    According to statistics from the ISIE, a total of 2,599,252 Tunisians voted in Tunisia and 104,903 Tunisians went to the polls abroad.

    The official TAP news agency said the Chahed Observatory reported a turnout of 28.8 percent when the polling stations closed.

    The total number of voters registered on the electoral register is around 9,753,217 people.

    The preliminary results of the election will be announced Monday evening, according to the ISIE.  

    MIL OSI China News –