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Category: China

  • EU says it still wants US trade deal, will defend interests

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The European Union said on Saturday it was ready to retaliate to defend its interests if the United States pressed ahead with imposing a 30% tariff on European goods from August 1.

    U.S. President Donald Trump latest salvo surprised the bloc, the United States’ largest trading partner, which had hoped to avoid an escalating trade war after intense negotiations and increasingly warm words from the White House.

    Ursula von der Leyen, head of the EU executive which handles trade policy for the 27 member states, said the bloc was ready to keep working towards an agreement before August 1,but was willing to stand firm.

    “We will take all necessary steps to safeguard EU interests, including the adoption of proportionate countermeasures if required,” she said of possible retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods entering Europe.

    EU ambassadors will discuss next steps on Sunday, before trade ministers meet in Brussels on Monday for an extraordinary meeting. They will need to decide whether to impose tariffs on 21 billion euros of U.S. imports in retaliation against separate U.S. tariffs against steel and aluminium, or extend a suspension which lasts until the end of Monday.

    The EU has so far held back from retaliating against the U.S., although it has readied two packages that could hit a combined 93 billion euros of U.S. goods

    European capitals swiftly backed von der Leyen’s position.

    German Economy Minister Katherina Reiche called for a “pragmatic outcome to the negotiations”.

    Trump’s proposed tariffs”would hit European exporting companies hard. At the same time, they would also have a strong impact on the economy and consumers on the other side of the Atlantic,” she said.

    French President Emmanuel Macron said on X that the European Commission needed more than ever to “assert the Union’s determination to defend European interests resolutely”.

    Retaliation might need to include so-called anti-coercion instruments if Trump did not back down, Macron said.

    The tool, drawn up during Trump’s first term and used against China, allows the EU to go beyond traditional tariffs on goods and impose restrictions on trade in services, if it deems that a country is using tariffs to force a change in policy.

    Spain’s Economy Ministry backed further negotiations but added that Spain and others in the EU were ready to take “proportionate countermeasures if necessary”.

    Trump has periodically railed against the European Union, saying in February it was “formed to screw the United States”.

    His biggest grievance is the U.S. merchandise trade deficit with the EU, which in 2024 amounted to $235 billion, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. The EU has repeatedly pointed to a U.S. surplus in services, arguing it in part redresses the balance.

    RETALIATION

    Combining goods, services and investment, the EU and the United States are each other’s largest trading partners by far. The American Chamber of Commerce to the EU said in March the trade dispute could jeopardise $9.5 trillion of business in the world’s most important commercial relationship.

    Bernd Lange, head of the European Parliament’s trade committee said he was now convinced the first stage of countermeasures should come into force on Monday, followed quickly by the second package.

    Trump has said he would mirror any retaliatory moves.

    Still, Trump has repeatedly announced sweeping tariffs in recent months, only to row back or suspend them before his own self-imposed deadlines. The expectation that he will again relent has led to increasingly muted responses on financial markets, which have recovered since plunging after his initial “Liberation Day” announcement of big global tariffs in April.

    Three EU officials who spoke on condition on anonymity said they saw Trump’s latest threats as a negotiating ploy.

    Carsten Brzeski, global head of macro at ING, said Trump’s move suggested that months of negotiations remained deadlocked and that the situation was inching towards a make-or-break moment for the transatlantic trade relationship.

    “The EU will now have to decide whether to budge or to play hardball,” he said. “This will bring market volatility and even more uncertainty.”

    Cyrus de la Rubia, chief economist at Hamburg Commercial Bank, noted that the brunt of the U.S. tariffs, if implemented, would be felt by U.S. consumers.

    However, there would also be clear repercussions for the euro area economy, already struggling with weak growth.

    The European Central Bank had used a 10% tariff on EU exports to the United States as the baseline in its latest economic projections, which put output growth in the euro area at 0.9% this year, 1.1% in 2026 and 1.3% in 2027.

    It said a 20% U.S. tariff would curb growth by 1 percentage point over the same period and also pull down inflation to 1.8% in 2027, from 2.0% in the baseline scenario. It did not even offer an estimate for the possibility of a 30% tariff.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: World’s most powerful floating direct drive wind turbine installed in China

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 13 (Xinhua) — China has made a major breakthrough in clean energy technology with the launch of the world’s most powerful floating direct-drive wind turbine.

    The 17-megawatt turbine, jointly developed by state-owned enterprises China Huaneng Group (CHG) and Dongfang Electric Corporation, officially rolled off the production line on Thursday in the coastal city of Fuqing, east China’s Fujian Province, CHG confirmed to Xinhua News Agency on Saturday.

    One of its power units can generate 68 million kWh of environmentally friendly electricity per year, which will be enough to supply electricity to approximately 40 thousand households.

    According to CHG, the demonstration test of the wind turbine will take place in waters near the city of Yangjiang in southern China’s Guangdong Province.

    The giant machine, with an operational availability of over 99 percent, has a record rotor diameter of 262 meters, and the blade capture area during rotation is about 53 thousand square meters, which is equivalent to 7.5 standard football fields. At the same time, the height of the central hub of 152 meters is comparable to a 50-story residential building.

    This wind turbine can withstand extreme marine conditions, including waves over 24 meters high and typhoons of force 17. Unique stabilization technology allows continuous power generation even when the floating platform is tilted at extreme angles.

    Liu Xin, director of the offshore wind energy department at China Huaneng Alternative Energy Technology Research Institute, highlighted the turbine’s adaptability, noting that its integrated intelligent sensing system provides holistic stability control for safe and efficient operation in the complex and variable deep-sea environment.

    A team of researchers has made a technological breakthrough in floating wind energy system coupling modeling technology and high-fidelity model testing technology.

    Notably, all major components, including blades, generators and transformers, are made in China, and the design includes, for the first time, Chinese-made large-diameter main shaft bearings.

    This technological breakthrough opens the door to exploiting China’s vast deep-sea wind resources. According to the Energy Research Institute of the National Development and Reform Commission of China, the depth of China’s coastal waters ranges from 5 to 50 meters, where the country has about 500 GW of electricity from wind energy resources, while similar resources on the deep-sea shelf are about 3 to 4 times larger.

    Data from the World Wind Energy Council (GWEC) highlights the global importance of these resources, showing that more than 80 percent of the world’s offshore wind resources are located in waters deeper than 60 meters.

    Floating wind technologies and solutions will further unlock the potential of deepwater offshore wind energy in the future, GWEC data shows.

    According to GWEC, the global installed capacity of floating wind turbines is estimated to reach 278 MW by the end of 2024, with Norway, the UK, China and France leading the four largest markets in this field. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: PKK disarmament marks important milestone in achieving regional peace and stability: Iraqi presidential administration

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BAGHDAD, July 13 (Xinhua) — The Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK)’s recent announcement to begin the disarmament process marks an important milestone in efforts to consolidate long-term peace and stability, the Iraqi presidency said Saturday.

    The process of disarming the PKK is an important and historic step towards ending decades of armed conflict and repeated security breaches that have cost the lives of countless civilians, the Iraqi presidential residence said in a statement.

    This event paves the way for a more stable and secure future, strengthening the prospects for peace and constructive cooperation throughout the region, the presidential administration said, stressing the importance of the full commitment of all parties to maintaining security, respecting sovereignty and supporting the legitimate rights of all communities.

    The disarmament is also expected to “strengthen bilateral relations between Iraq and Turkey based on mutual respect, common interests and a shared vision of regional security and prosperity,” the document says.

    In a recorded address in June released earlier this week from a prison on the island of Imrali near Istanbul, Abdullah Ocalan, the jailed PKK leader, said the PKK’s more than 40-year armed struggle against Turkey for self-rule was over and details regarding disarmament would be quickly implemented.

    A group of PKK militants burned their weapons in a symbolic ceremony in Sulaymaniyah province on Friday, Iraqi media reported.

    The PKK, listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States and the European Union, has rebelled against the Turkish government for more than three decades. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Advocacy and Justice – New Zealand Urged to Join Global Coalition Taking Concrete Measures Against Israeli Atrocities – PFNZ

    Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand

    The Palestine Forum of New Zealand is calling on the New Zealand Government to urgently align itself with over twenty nations — including Spain, Ireland, Turkey, China, Qatar, South Africa, and Brazil — that are coordinating concrete international measures in response to Israel’s ongoing assault on Gaza.

    An emergency summit of The Hague Group will take place in Colombia next week, with participating states seeking to enforce the International Court of Justice’s binding orders and address grave breaches of international law in Gaza.

    “More than 58,000 Palestinians — mostly women and children have been killed, and Gaza has been reduced to rubble. The international community is moving decisively, and it’s time for New Zealand to take a principled stand,” said Maher Nazzal, spokesperson for the Palestine Forum of New Zealand.

    New Zealand has a proud legacy of supporting international law and human rights, from opposing apartheid to championing nuclear disarmament. It must now show moral clarity and leadership by joining the growing international coalition demanding an immediate ceasefire, the lifting of the blockade, and full accountability for crimes committed.

    “We urge the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs to publicly commit to joining this initiative and to represent New Zealand at the upcoming summit. Inaction in the face of atrocity is complicity,” Maher Nazzal added.

    Maher Nazzal
    Palestine Forum of New Zealand

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Romanian folk traditions on display at Beijing exhibition

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

    Editor’s Note: The Romanian Cultural Institute in Beijing is currently presenting “Heritage,” an exhibition on the folk traditions of the Fagaras region, showcasing hand-stitched blouses and other garments.

    This photo shows the entrance of the “Heritage” exhibition at the Romanian Cultural Institute in Beijing, July 9, 2025. The display marks the Universal Day of the Romanian Blouse and showcases traditional Romanian heritage. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

    The show, co-curated by artist Raluca Jurcovan and artisan Mariana Neacsu, runs through Aug. 22. The exhibition

     features 17 hand-stitched traditional Romanian blouses, accompanied by other garments and a series of photographs documenting everyday life in Draguș, a village significant to Romanian sociological research.

    “Heritage” celebrates Romanian cultural identity through traditional garments, including the “ie” blouse, as well as

     photographs that reflect the history and values of the Fagaras region, known for preserving traditional crafts and community life.

    Jurcovan, a visual artist and ethnographic researcher, and Neacsu, a master folk artisan, curated the exhibition to combine historical craftsmanship with personal heritage. Each piece on display represents both the skills passed down through generations and the ongoing creative energy of rural Romania. 

    Visitors are encouraged to explore the textures, embroidery, and stories embedded in the clothing, experiencing firsthand how Romanian culture connects its past with its present. 

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: World’s highest cycling race showcases China’s eco-civilization

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

    The 2025 Tour of Magnificent Qinghai is not only a road cycling spectacle, but a crucial platform for China’s Qinghai Province to showcase its plateau ecological protection, cultural tourism integration, and rural revitalization efforts.

    From the canola flower fields of Menyuan to the snow-capped mountains and grasslands of Qilian, from the intangible cultural heritage of the Tu ethnic group in Huzhu to the magnificent scenes of nomadic horse teams cheering on the riders, the event paints a vibrant new picture of the plateau where ecology and culture are intertwined.

    HIGH ALTITUDE, CHALLENGING RACES, SPECTACULAR SCENERY

    With the sound of the starting gun, the Tour of Magnificent Qinghai opened on July 6 in the ancient plateau city of Xining, capital of Qinghai Province.

    An aerial drone photo taken on Oct. 18, 2024 shows a view of the Erlangjian scenic area at Qinghai Lake in northwest China’s Qinghai Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Formerly known as the Tour of Qinghai Lake, the event was rebranded in 2025 as the Tour of Magnificent Qinghai. First held in 2002, the high-altitude race is recognized as one of Asia’s premier road cycling events, known for its punishing terrain and average elevation of 3,000 meters.

    The 2025 edition features eight stages totaling 1,400 kilometers and has attracted 154 professional riders from 11 countries and regions. The event, with a maximum altitude of 3,869m, concludes in Haiyan County on July 13.

    Over 24 years of development, the event has steadily advanced from a 2.5-category race to one of Asia’s top road cycling events, and now ranks as a UCI ProSeries race.

    Luo Dongchuan, Governor of Qinghai Province, said in his opening speech that the Tour of Magnificent Qinghai, with its unique charm of high altitude, challenging courses, and spectacular scenery, has become one of the most challenging and visually appealing road cycling events in the world.

    Cyclists compete during the Stage 5 of the 1st Tour of Qinghai Lake, July 31, 2002. [Photo/Xinhua]

    “It has become a benchmark event leading the development of cycling in China, a splendid window showcasing a beautiful China and the construction of a strong sporting nation,” Luo added.

    Luo further noted, “It demonstrates the open, inclusive, and pioneering spirit of the people of all ethnic groups on the Qinghai Plateau.”

    In a message to the opening ceremony, David Lappartient, President of the International Cycling Union (UCI), stated that the Tour of Magnificent Qinghai has been an important part of the UCI racing history since 2002.

    “Formerly part of the UCI Asia Tour, it is now a UCI ProSeries event and continues to attract top-quality teams and athletes to race through the province of Qinghai, known for its beautiful Qinghai Lake,” Lappartient added.

    “All those who embark on the Tour of Magnificent Qinghai are aware that the road will be tough, but beautiful and rewarding,” he noted.

    Li Zisen of Qinghai Tianyoude celebrates victory after the Stage 8 of the 20th Tour of Qinghai Lake, July 18, 2021. [Photo/Xinhua]

    From his hometown in Yunnan Province to Qinghai, from one plateau to an even higher one, Li Zisen arrived at the Duoba National Plateau Training Base in Qinghai in 2013 to begin a new journey.

    Li, now 27, cannot remember how many times he has ridden the training route of Duoba Base – Riyue Mountain – Xihai Town – Qinghai Lake. In several editions of the Tour of Qinghai Lake, he claimed the Blue Jersey for best Asian rider, and is currently competing in this year’s Tour of Magnificent Qinghai.

    With excellent physical condition and rigorous training, Li has gradually gained recognition at both domestic and international cycling events. “Each honor has given me more confidence,” Li said before this year’s event.

    PASSION AND ECOLOGY IN HARMONY

    Qinghai Province is home to numerous lakes and diverse wildlife in the headwaters of the Three Rivers – the Yangtze, Yellow and Lancang – making it the “Water Tower of China.” The region is dedicated to building an international ecological civilization highland.

    An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 23, 2024 shows Mount Gangshika in Menyuan Hui Autonomous County, northwest China’s Qinghai Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The Tour of Magnificent Qinghai is a “green calling card” showcasing Qinghai’s ecological civilization construction. This year’s race passes through the Twelve Turns of Huzhu, the picturesque Zhuoer Mountain, and the vast Jin Yintan (Golden and Silver Beach), showcasing Qinghai’s harmonious coexistence between mankind and nature.

    “The Tour of Magnificent Qinghai has witnessed Qinghai’s determination to protect the headwaters, but more importantly, through ‘green’ sports, the organizing committee is sending a strong signal to the outside world about protecting the Sanjiangyuan (Three Rivers Source), Qinghai Lake, and even the ecological environment along the route,” said Wang Xia, Director of the Qinghai Provincial Sports Bureau.

    The Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture’s Menyuan and Qilian Counties, where this year’s race passes through, are important parts of the Qilian Mountains National Park.

    Seeing the majestic Gangshika Snow Mountain and the canola flower fields along the route, Swiss rider Simon Pellaud said, “These flower fields remind me of my hometown. Qinghai is a romantic place.”

    This photo taken on July 21, 2022 shows a view of the Mount Geladandong in the source region of the Yangtze River in northwest China’s Qinghai Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Since 2017, the national park has seen a 15 percent improvement in vegetation and ecological quality, with 60 percent of degraded grassland effectively restored. Water conservation capacity and hydrological runoff have also improved significantly, while vegetation has increased its carbon dioxide absorption by 19 percent and oxygen release by 20 percent.

    From late May to early August, Qinghai Lake’s naked carp enter their spawning season. Tens of thousands of these fish swim upstream into the freshwater rivers feeding the lake, creating a striking natural spectacle known as “half river clear water, half river fish.”

    As the most classic stage of the Tour of Magnificent Qinghai, Qinghai Lake, China’s largest inland saltwater lake, is writing a new chapter in its development as a national wetland park, emphasizing the integrated protection of mountains, rivers, forests, fields, lakes and grasslands.

    Today, the Tour of Magnificent Qinghai has become a driving force for promoting high-quality development in Qinghai, which is emerging as a world-class salt lake industry hub, a national clean energy industry highland, an international eco-tourism destination, a green and organic agricultural and livestock product export base, and a demonstration zone for coordinated development of computing power and electricity.

    An aerial drone photo taken on April 23, 2024 shows a photovoltaic project in Delingha, northwest China’s Qinghai province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Salt lake resources support the dual strategies of food security and new energy transition. Qinghai’s installed capacity and power generation from renewable energy sources rank among the highest nationwide.

    PLATEAU CULTURE AND DEVELOPMENT

    Qinghai is a homeland of multi-ethnic groups living in harmony. The Han, Tibetan, Hui, Mongolian, Tu and Salar ethnic groups are as closely united as pomegranate seeds. The Tour of Magnificent Qinghai has become a “friendship bridge,” fostering cultural exchanges and showcasing rural revitalization on the plateau.

    20-year-old Guo Kuanzhang from Lusha’er Town, Huangzhong District, Xining City, has been learning stilt-walking from his father since childhood. Before the start of the second stage in Duoba Base on July 7, Guo and his companions performed “aerial dances” on 2.5-meter stilts for the cyclists and spectators.

    In the Hehuang Valley, the traditional Shehuo folk performance occurs every Spring Festival, with stilt walking a major highlight. Lusha’er stilt walking is listed as an intangible cultural heritage of Qinghai Province.

    “Practicing stilts has given me a new understanding of courage and strength, and I also wish the cyclists the best of luck,” said Guo.

    Folk artists perform during a Shehuo parade in Xining, northwest China’s Qinghai Province, Feb. 7, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Along the way, the Tour of Magnificent Qinghai has witnessed various regions developing characteristic industries.

    The name of Dongge’er in Shinaihai Town, Gonghe County, means white conch in Tibetan. The fish-watching platform resembles a white conch lying quietly in the curved bay where tens of thousands of naked carp revel.

    The Dongge’er Fish Watching Platform is the collective economy of six villages in Shinaihai Town. In July 2023, the villages established a cultural tourism company which built a 450-square-meter tent food city opposite the fish watching platform, creating dozens of shops selling characteristic agricultural and livestock products such as yak jerky, yogurt and wolfberries. The vast majority of local herders have now become shopkeepers to serve the booming trade.

    Haiyan County’s Xihai Town, the final stage of this year’s race, is situated in the heart of Jin Yintan Grassland. Local official Xie Xiaoling said that the Tour of Magnificent Qinghai has significantly promoted the growth of the local cycling industry, with 16 cycling clubs and over 12,000 bicycles now present in the area.

    A female Tibetan antelope is seen at the Drolkar Lake area in Hoh Xil, northwest China’s Qinghai Province, June 18, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Reflecting on the region’s cultural history, Chinese composer Wang Luobin created the timeless song “In That Distant Place” on the Jin Yintan Grassland in 1940, spreading Western Chinese folk music around the world.

    Today, with the steady advancement of ecological protection and sustainable development, Qinghai is no longer a remote region but a shining example of a modern, eco-friendly plateau. The “green” cycling race continues to paint a vivid new picture of Qinghai’s development and harmony with nature.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: World’s first somatic cell-cloned dzo born in China’s Xizang

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

    This undated photo provided by the Institute of Animal Sciences under the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences shows a somatic cell-cloned dzo in Qushui County of Lhasa, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Chinese scientists have announced the birth of the world’s first somatic cell-cloned dzo in China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. This marks a critical breakthrough in high-altitude breeding technology, which is vital for improving plateau livestock and protecting endangered species.

    The newborn male calf, weighing 26 kilograms, was delivered via caesarean section. Rigorous genetic testing confirmed it is an exact genetic replica of the donor dzo. It has now survived for over two months in good health, the Science and Technology Daily reported on Friday.

    This achievement was made by a collaborative team from the Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS) under the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), the academy of agricultural and animal husbandry sciences and the animal husbandry and veterinary station in Xizang, as well as China Agricultural University, and Northeastern University.

    The team said the test was approved by relevant authorities and complied with ethical norms.

    “This marks the first successful application of somatic cell cloning in situ on the plateau specifically for the conservation and utilization of locally adapted genetic resources,” said Yu Dawei, a researcher with the CAAS-IAS who led the research team.

    The dzo, a hybrid resulting from crossing female yaks and male cattle, is uniquely adapted to the harsh Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and offers superior economic benefits.

    In addition to their impressive dairy output, dzos are known for their high meat yield efficiency, rich nutritional value, and strong draft capabilities, making them significantly more economically valuable than conventional plateau cattle species.

    However, the critical roadblock to fully realizing these advantages is the infertility of male dzos, which hinders the natural propagation of their desirable genetics.

    Advanced bovine embryo production and transfer techniques essential for breeding have also been underdeveloped in Xizang. Therefore, dependence on repeated artificial crossing has increased costs and hindered large-scale industrialization.

    The researchers extracted somatic cells from the ear of a nine-year-old adult dzo. The cell nucleus was then transferred into an enucleated cattle egg cell to create a cloned embryo.

    This embryo was implanted into a surrogate dzo cow, which carried the pregnancy through the challenging high-altitude conditions, including low temperatures and reduced oxygen levels.

    It finally gave birth to a male calf on May 12 at a county experiment station in the regional capital Lhasa.

    “This precise cloning technology allows the stable inheritance of desirable traits like high yield and environmental resilience. It paves the way for mass propagation of high-quality breeding stock,” said Yu.

    Cloning in high-altitude, low-oxygen environments presents extraordinary scientific challenges.

    “Our team overcame these difficulties through key technical innovations, including developing a specialized plateau-adapted embryo culture system, ensuring early development through precise control of parameters like temperature and pH,” said Yu, adding that the research team also optimized protocols for surrogate mother selection to improve pregnancy success rates.

    Beyond dzos, the validated system makes the gene banking and potential future restoration within their native habitat of other endangered plateau species, such as Tibetan antelope and wild yaks, a tangible possibility, according to Yu. “It is expected to establish a crucial technological safeguard for highland biodiversity.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s diving team tests new pairings ahead of World Championships

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

    China’s diving team held internal trials Saturday ahead of the upcoming World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, featuring significant lineup changes.

    New partnerships will compete in key events, including women’s 10m platform and women’s 3m springboard. Chen Yuxi, who previously swept multiple Olympic and world titles in women’s synchronised 10m platform with Quan Hongchan, will now partner with Zhang Minjie.

    “I feel her individual dives are quite stable with good height off the board. She can guide me well,” Zhang said.

    “For the synchro event, each has her own style,” Chen Yuxi noted. “The priority is aligning with each other. We need continuous refinement through teamwork.”

    Reflecting on her mindset post-2024 Olympics, Chen added: “The shift is substantial. After three years of intense competition last cycle, I’m starting from scratch this time to gradually regain competition rhythm. Mentally, I feel more stable and mature now.”

    In women’s 3m springboard, Olympic champion Chen Yiwen pairs with newcomer Chen Jia, who has won two World Cup singles titles this season. “I’m looking forward to my first Worlds,” Chen Jia said. Chen Yiwen aims to “regain her sense of purpose” at the event. Both will also contest the singles.

    Veteran Cao Yuan, an Olympic gold medalist in three different diving disciplines, switches back to men’s 3m springboard singles. “This switch demanded tremendous effort. I aim for breakthroughs and hope to execute details well,” Cao said.

    Wang Zongyuan teams with Zheng Jiuyuan in the men’s synchronised 3m springboard. Wang, who will also compete in the singles, stated: “As a major post-Olympics meet, this championship will help identify areas for improvement. I’ll focus on technique and adapt during competition.”

    The men’s synchronised 10m platform features rookie duo Cheng Zilong and Zhu Zifeng. “We’ll motivate each other to adjust mentally,” Zhu said. Cheng added: “As new partners this cycle, we aim to follow in our predecessors’ footsteps for national glory. This requires daily, step-by-step training progress. We’ll keep learning from them.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chen continues giant-killing run at WTT US Smash

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

    Chinese Chen Yi continued her giant-killing spree, defeating more favored teammate Kuai Man to reach the women’s singles final in the WTT US Smash in Las Vegas on Saturday.

    The unseeded 20-year-old from the southeastern province of Zhejiang, who had eliminated China’s world No. 1 and world champion Sun Yingsha and Japan’s ninth seed Hina Hayata, outlasted fifth-seeded Kuai 4-3 (6-11, 11-3, 3-11, 11-9, 9-11, 11-1, 11-9) to set up a title clash against former Chinese national team star Zhu Yuling.

    “Kuai Man and I know each other very well,” said Chen. “We both know whoever is more determined and decisive would win this game.”

    Zhu, a former World Cup winner who now plays for Macao, China, swept seventh-seeded Japanese Mima Ito 4-2 (11-6, 11-9, 6-11, 4-11, 11-6, 11-8) in the other semifinal.

    The 30-year-old Zhu previously stepped away from China’s national team to recover from cancer, pursue her studies, and later become a professor at Tianjin University. She joined the Macao team last year.

    Earlier in the day, South Korea’s An Jae-hyun/Lim Jong-hoon beat France’s Alexis Lebrun/Felix Lebrun 3-1 to win the men’s doubles title.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Rising star Zhang selected for China’s FIBA Women’s Asia Cup campaign

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

    China’s basketball prodigy Zhang Ziyu is set to make her international debut in senior major tournaments as China announced a 12-player roster for the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup on Saturday.

    Standing 2.26 meters tall, Zhang, 18, starred at last year’s FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup with an average of 35 points and 12.8 rebounds, helping China advance to the final and being awarded the MVP of the tournament.

    Zhang is joined by Han Xu, MVP of the previous Women’s Asia Cup in 2023, on the center position.

    The other players included are Wang Siyu, Li Yuan, Yang Liwei, Yang Shuyu, Zhang Ru, Luo Xinyu, Jia Saiqi, Huang Sijing, Pan Zhenqi and Zhai Ruoyun.

    The FIBA Women’s Asia Cup will be held in Shenzhen, south China’s Guangdong Province from July 13 to 20.

    China is placed in Group A along with South Korea, New Zealand and Indonesia, and will kick off its title defense against Indonesia on Sunday.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The SCO Digital Economy Universities Alliance has been officially established

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 13 (Xinhua) — The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Digital Economy Universities Alliance was officially established in Tianjin, northern China, the Zhongxinshe news agency reported.

    The alliance was launched at a thematic forum on cooperation between universities within the framework of the SCO Digital Economic Forum. More than 200 representatives of universities from China and other SCO countries took part in it.

    This sub-forum is devoted to the topic “Innovation in education and transnational training of personnel within the digital economy” and is intended to discuss the interaction between digital technologies and higher education, exchange practical experience in the transformation and modernization of personnel training in universities in the era of digital intelligence, and is also aimed at promoting practical cooperation in the field of the digital economy.

    The event noted that the SCO Digital Economy Alliance of Universities, adhering to the principles of joint consultation, joint construction and joint use, will build a high-level education community in the field of digital economy, create an educational cooperation platform characterized by openness, interaction and innovation, so as to give impetus to the high-quality development of the digital economy around the world.

    Let us recall that from July 10 to 11, the SCO Digital Economic Forum was held in Tianjin, jointly organized by the State Data Administration of the People’s Republic of China and the Tianjin People’s Government. It was attended by more than 1,500 guests representing governments, enterprises, universities and think tanks of the SCO member states. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China publishes Han-Tibetan version of major dictionary

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

    China attaches great importance to the use of the Tibetan language, as evidenced by the recent publication of a key bilingual dictionary.

    On Friday, the Han-Tibetan version of the Modern Chinese Dictionary, compiled and translated over 13 years, was jointly published by China Tibetology Publishing House and The Commercial Press, according to the ethnic and religious affairs commission of Qinghai Province.

    Against the backdrop of rapid social development, Tibetan people have shown a growing desire to learn the national standard Chinese (Han language) while also preserving their own. However, authoritative and user-friendly Han-Tibetan reference books have been scarce, prompting Qinghai — a province with a large Tibetan population — to launch the translation project.

    The three-volume dictionary has over 70,000 Chinese entries and 200,000 Tibetan entries, totaling more than 10 million characters. While featuring vocabulary, explanations and example sentences with concise, accurate and practical translations, it also integrates word forms and meaning transformations in line with Tibetan grammatical rules.

    This dictionary serves as an authoritative language tool in Tibetan-inhabited areas, providing valuable resources for education and cultural exchange and contributing to China’s efforts in promoting ethnic exchanges and integration, according to the commission.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Openness brings progress, closure leads to backwardness: Chinese FM on US-imposed tariffs

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

    Openness brings progress, while closure leads to backwardness, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday when commenting on U.S.-imposed high tariffs against various countries.

    Amid the ongoing mixture of changes and chaos in the current international situation, every country must make a choice between unilateralism and multilateralism, closeness and openness, unity and division, said Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, who was here attending the ASEAN Plus foreign ministers’ meetings in the Malaysian capital.

    China’s choice is to be more open, he stressed, explaining that this is not only the basic experience of China’s development and growth, but also the inevitable logic of history moving forward.

    China has taken the initiative to provide zero-tariff treatment for products to the least developed countries and the entire Africa, fully completed negotiations on the Version 3.0 China-ASEAN Free Trade Area, and has created a new model of cross-regional cooperation at the ASEAN-China-GCC summit, he added.

    In contrast, the high tariffs imposed on various countries are a clear violation of World Trade Organization rules, disrupting the stable operation of the production and supply chains, and hindering the recovery and development of the world economy, said the Chinese foreign minister, adding that such move is irresponsible, unpopular, and unsustainable.

    Wang said that China will continue to stand firmly with countries in the region, promoting unity, cooperation, and collective strength, and will always be an advocate of multilateralism, a defender of free trade, and a contributor to open development, he said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: EU urged to respond firmly as Trump’s tariff threat sparks outrage

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

    U.S. President Donald Trump’s surprise announcement of sweeping 30 percent tariffs on European Union (EU) exports on Saturday has provoked a fierce backlash across the bloc, with officials and industry leaders demanding a strong and united response amid continued trade talks.

    The proposed tariffs, set to take effect on Aug. 1, target EU imports and were justified by Trump as a correction of a “far from reciprocal” trade relations.

    European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned on Saturday that the tariffs would “disrupt essential transatlantic supply chains, to the detriment of businesses, consumers and patients on both sides of the Atlantic.”

    While emphasizing the EU’s continued commitment to a negotiated solution, she said the bloc “will take all necessary steps to safeguard EU interests, including the adoption of proportionate countermeasures if required.”

    European lawmakers and national leaders voiced growing frustration, with many urging immediate retaliatory steps.

    Bernd Lange, chair of the European Parliament’s committee on international trade, said the U.S. letter is “both impertinent and a slap in the face” after weeks of negotiations.

    He urged the EU to begin retaliatory measures on Monday as scheduled, stating that “the period of waiting is over.”

    European Council President Antonio Costa said the tariffs would drive inflation, fuel uncertainty and stall growth. “The EU remains firm, united and ready to protect our interests,” he said, urging progress toward a “fair agreement” with Washington.

    French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his “strong disapproval” of the U.S. move, and said the EU must speed up preparing “credible countermeasures” using all tools, including anti-coercion, available if talks fail.

    Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson condemned the move as a “unilateral escalation,” and said the EU is prepared to respond with tough countermeasures if necessary.

    “Everyone loses out from an escalated trade conflict, and it will be U.S. consumers who pay the highest price,” he warned.

    Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala criticized the U.S. tariffs for negatively impacting transatlantic trade and called for “unity and determination” to protect the EU’s interests.

    European industries voiced alarm over the fallout, particularly in sectors tightly integrated with the U.S. market.

    Germany’s major industry lobby group, the BDI, called the U.S. move “an alarm signal,” warning that it could derail recovery and undermine innovation on both sides of the Atlantic.

    “Tariffs as a means of exerting political pressure lead to higher costs, jeopardize jobs and undermine international competitiveness, both in Europe and in the United States,” said Wolfgang Niedermark, a senior BDI executive.

    Isabel Schnabel, a European Central Bank board member, said the tariffs could trigger medium-term inflation and supply chain shocks.

    The automotive sector, which is already deeply integrated with the EU and the U.S., is already feeling the pain.

    Slovakia, one of Europe’s top car-exporting nations, reported a noticeable drop in orders for the coming third quarter. Economy Minister Denisa Sakova said relocating production to the U.S. was not feasible in the short term and emphasized that the damage had already begun.

    The German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) said the cost to manufacturers was already in the billions and climbing daily.

    “It is regrettable that there is a threat of a further escalation of the trade conflict,” said VDA President Hildegard Mueller.

    “The costs for our companies are already in the billions, and the sum is growing every day,” she said, noting that suppliers were also significantly affected by the import duties.

    Emanuele Orsini, president of Confindustria, Italy’s major association representing manufacturing and service companies, condemned the U.S. approach as “unpleasant,” while Paolo Mascarino, president of the Italian food and drink industry federation Federalimentare, said the tariffs “exceed any threshold of tolerability” and would trigger significant drops in exports.

    Dan O’Brien, chief economist at the Institute of International and European Affairs, said the U.S. move was “provocative” and significantly raised the risk of a wider economic confrontation between the two economies.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese FM elaborates on South China Sea issue

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

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Saturday spoke to reporters about the South China Sea issue in response to questions while attending annual ASEAN Plus foreign ministers’ meetings in Kuala Lumpur.

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that the South China Sea issue is discussed every year at the meetings, and this year was no exception. “What struck me most this time is the clear temperature difference between regional countries and a few countries from outside the region.”

    At the China-ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting, the discussion on the South China Sea was held in a more calm and confident manner, becasse compared with other seas in the world, the South China Sea is clearly stable. There are no problems with freedom of navigation and overflight, Wang said

    Some countries outside the region continue to make irresponsible remarks about the South China Sea. Although their tone has notably softened this year, they have not stopped, he said, adding tt seems they fear the South China Sea will not be chaotic. Regional countries are now well aware of these “old tricks.”

    Wang said he proposed that a new narrative should be built for the South China Sea. We should not always associate the South China Sea with friction, conflict, or confrontation, but with peace, stability, and cooperation. This should become the mainstream narrative in the future, stated the Chinese foreign minister.

    China and ASEAN countries are working toward this direction, he said, adding there is still one country that seems out of sync with the others, but I believe it will come to eventually understand. Acting as a pawn for others will only lead to being sacrificed.

    Wang said that China and ASEAN countries have agreed to upgrade the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) by formulating a Code of Conduct (COC) that is effective, substantive, and consistent with international law.

    All sides also agreed to strive to conclude the COC as scheduled next year, he said. In the next stage, consultations will become more frequent, and the process will speed up. We have the confidence, capability, and wisdom to maintain stability in the South China Sea, remove external interference, and jointly build the South China Sea into a sea of peace, friendship, and cooperation.

    Wang emphasized that during the meetings, he also elaborated on China’s position regarding the so-called South China Sea arbitration case. This arbitration case has serious flaws in terms of fact-finding and application of law. It carried out actions that violated the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea under the name of the convention itself, and its damage to regional peace and stability as well as the maritime order has become increasingly evident.

    Wang stated that we must ask: if compulsory arbitration can be abused, is there still value in diplomatic efforts? Should bilateral consultations be abandoned? Do commitments under the DOC still count? If territorial sovereignty and maritime demarcation issues are submitted for arbitration, should the exclusive declarations under the convention still be respected? Does an agreement between China and the Philippines to resolve disputes through dialogue still hold? And if all islands and reefs in the South China Sea are denied maritime entitlements, should the world’s maritime map be redrawn?

    In fact, this so-called arbitration case is a political manipulation and should be thrown into the trash heap of history, Wang said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing to develop multiple 100-bln-yuan consumption hubs by 2030

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

    Beijing plans to develop two to three new landmark integrated consumption hubs by 2030, with each targeting annual sales revenue of over 100 billion yuan (about 14 billion U.S. dollars) by blending consumption scenarios of culture, commerce, tourism and sports, the municipal commerce bureau has announced.

    Beijing has implemented a consumption stimulus action plan, aiming to achieve an average annual growth of around 5 percent in total market consumption by 2030.

    The Chinese capital’s move is designed to further strengthen its global influence in consumption market, enhance resource allocation efficiency, and reinforce its pioneering role in consumption innovation, according to the bureau.

    The plan encompasses more than 20 specific measures across multiple dimensions, including initiatives to boost household incomes while alleviating financial burdens, enhance service consumption experiences, invigorate commodity consumption, expand consumption value chains, create diversified integrated spaces, and optimize the consumption environment.

    In July 2021, China approved Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Tianjin and Chongqing to take the lead in building international consumption center cities.

    By the end of 2024, Beijing had developed more than 60 shopping districts, which received 2.67 billion visitors last year, a year-on-year increase of 10.7 percent.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Cutting-edge tech on display at Changchun auto show in northeast China

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

    A Hongqi Tiangong 05 electric car is displayed at the 22nd Changchun International Auto Expo in Changchun, northeast China’s Jilin Province, July 12, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The 22nd Changchun International Auto Expo opened Saturday in Changchun, capital of northeast China’s Jilin Province, bringing together 118 auto companies around the world to showcase the latest advancements in automotive technology and future mobility solutions.

    This year’s expo spans 170,000 square meters, featuring four main exhibition halls, three featured zones, two interactive experience areas and an outdoor exhibition area, according to the organizers.

    The future mobility section showcases innovative transportation solutions, such as a flying car, two spokeless hydrogen-powered bicycles, and drone-based application scenarios.

    During the 10-day event, automakers are offering trade-in discounts, cash rebates, and other promotions, in addition to government consumption vouchers, to stimulate consumer demand.

    The expo will also host a series of activities, such as a Belt and Road automotive road show and a forum on new energy intelligent vehicle development.

    Known as the “cradle of China’s automotive industry,” Changchun witnessed the establishment of the country’s first automobile workshop back in 1953. It is home to China’s automaker giant, FAW Group.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: PKK disarmament opens “new page in history” of Turkey – R.T. Erdogan

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    ANKARA, July 13 (Xinhua) — Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday declared a “new page” in Turkey’s history as the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) begins the process of disarmament.

    “As of yesterday, the 47-year-old terror has entered the phase of cessation. Turkey has begun to close a long, painful chapter filled with pain and tears,” Erdogan said, addressing members of his ruling Justice and Development Party in the Kizilcahamam district of Ankara province.

    A group of PKK militants burned their weapons in a symbolic ceremony in Iraq’s northern Sulaymaniyah province on Friday.

    “From now on we will sit down and talk – not with weapons or violence, not about conflicts, but about unity, brotherhood and personal dialogue, removing the obstacle of terror,” he said.

    According to Turkey’s semi-official Anadolu Agency, the disarmament ceremony was attended by Iraqi officials, representatives of Turkey’s National Intelligence Organization, the Kurdistan Regional Government, security forces, civil society organizations and media.

    The PKK, listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States and the European Union, has been rebelling against the Turkish government for more than four decades.

    Türkiye regularly carries out military operations against PKK militants in northern Iraq, where the group has its hideouts. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s largest natural uranium project produces first barrel

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

    China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) announced Saturday that the country’s largest natural uranium project has produced its first barrel of uranium, marking a new phase of sustainable and smart uranium mining in China.

    Located in Ordos in north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, the “National No.1 Uranium” demonstration project, the country’s largest natural uranium production base by capacity and built to the highest standards, has also set a new record for construction speed, having been completed just one year after breaking ground.

    “This demonstration project is a major achievement in China’s third-generation uranium mining and processing technology,” said Yuan Xu, chairman of China National Uranium Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of CNNC.

    He added that the project features key elements of modern uranium mining, including a strong focus on environmental protection, remote control operations, intelligent analysis, and enhanced quality and efficiency.

    Through full-process digitalization and intelligent analysis, the project has made uranium mining more predictable and controllable, according to Yuan.

    China’s total nuclear power generation capacity — including units in operation, under construction, or officially approved — ranks first in the world, according to the China Energy Research Society.

    The technologies used in the demonstration project are expected to be fully applied and rapidly scaled across uranium development in China’s northern basins to support the creation of additional large-scale uranium mining bases, according to the CNNC.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s medical equipment exports reach over 190 countries, regions

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

    SHANGHAI, July 12 — China’s medical equipment exports reached over 9,000 medical institutions in more than 190 countries and regions last year, according to the China International Conference on Medical Equipment Cooperation held in Shanghai.

    Over the past five years, China’s medical equipment import and export trade has seen a compound annual growth rate of 9.4 percent, indicating a steady rise in international competitiveness and brand influence, as well as deeper international cooperation, said Hou Yan, chairperson of the China Association of Medical Equipment, which hosted the conference from Friday to Saturday.

    The purpose of hosting the conference was to build a high-level, wide-ranging and multi-dimensional platform for international exchange and cooperation, and to share China’s innovations and experience in the medical equipment sector, Hou added.

    Participants from 17 countries and regions, including health officials, experts and representatives from medical enterprises, attended the conference.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Secures Several Key Priorities in Committee-Passed NDAA To Expand IVF Coverage, Strengthen Oversight of Domestic Military Deployments, Boost American Manufacturing and More

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    July 11, 2025

    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] — Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—who served in the Reserve Forces for 23 years and is a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC)—secured several important provisions to support servicemembers and boost American competitiveness and national security in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that SASC approved this week and the full Senate will now consider. Among the provisions that the Senator secured in the Committee-passed legislation, Duckworth successfully led a provision to expand IVF access for uniformed servicemembers and ensure military families have the same level of coverage that Members of Congress and other federal employees already have. As President Donald Trump continues to misuse our military to intimidate American citizens across our nation, Duckworth also successfully secured provisions that would safeguard Americans’ civil rights when servicemembers assist law enforcement on U.S. soil.

    “The brave men and women in uniform who serve our nation at home and abroad deserve to know that our country fully supports them as they and their families sacrifice to defend our country and our Constitution,”?said Duckworth.?“While I don’t support every provision included in this bill, I’m proud that it includes several of my provisions to support our servicemembers and their families, boost American manufacturing, improve Americans’ faith in their military as well as rein in the Trump Administration. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to continue improving this NDAA and ensure Congress passes a strong final bill that lets our troops know we have their backs.”  

    NDAAs set our nation’s defense policy and laws, authorize funding for the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and ensure that our servicemembers have the tools they need to defend our nation. Additionally, this year’s committee-passed legislation authorizes funding to support a 3.8 percent pay raise for military members.

    Key Duckworth-led provisions secured in this year’s Committee-passed NDAA would:

    • Expand access to IVF for military families by requiring TRICARE to cover fertility treatment services, including IVF, to ensure servicemembers and their families have the same level of coverage that Members of Congress already receive. This is the second time Senator Duckworth secured this provision in the committee-passed version of an NDAA bill.  
      • Regarding this provision, Duckworth said: “Even before I was wounded, I had made the difficult decision to delay building a family because I knew getting pregnant would impact my ability to be an Army aviator—and to advance in the career I loved. Because of the miracle of IVF—and my access to reproductive healthcare through the VA—I’m now a mom to two beautiful girls. The reality is that the men and women of the uniformed services face unique challenges when trying to start or build a family, and studies show that servicemembers and Veterans have higher rates of infertility compared to the general population. After successfully securing this provision in last year’s Committee-passed bill, I’m so proud my colleagues helped me build on this progress by including it in this year’s bill as well. It’s past time our nation provides our military families with the same access to IVF that all Members of Congress already have and ensure our heroes can start the families they’ve dreamed of.” 
    • Strengthen public trust of the military and enhance civil rights by requiring that servicemembers identify themselves as part of the military when assisting federal law enforcement in the United States. As the Trump Administration continues to send federal agents and our nation’s military into our communities to intimidate their fellow Americans, this provision ensures that servicemembers identify themselves properly—to avoid public misunderstanding about who is providing logistical support versus conducting arrests or law enforcement duties.  
      • Regarding this provision, Duckworth said: “In my own experience serving in the National Guard, I saw firsthand the difference drawing a bright line between the roles of our military and law enforcement can make in terms of maintaining public trust in our military. I’m proud my colleagues agreed that this is a necessary requirement to provide accountability to the public during tense moments when troops might be interacting with citizens, from protests to natural disasters to humanitarian crises, and I hope the rest of my colleagues in the Senate do too.” 
    • Ensure all servicemembers know their legal obligations during deployments both at home and abroad by mandating legal training to all servicemembers, including a refresher within 90 days of any mobilization or deployment, on their responsibilities under the law of armed conflict, rules of engagement, defense support for civil authorities and standing rules for the use of force within the United States. In light of the Trump Administration’s increasing use of troops to support law enforcement within the United States, this provision will ensure troops know how to responsibly operate within the bounds of domestic laws and protect American civil rights.
    • Establish a senior leader of DoD Programs for military to civilian transition efforts by directing DoD to appoint a senior official to oversee policy and programs related to the transition of servicemembers to civilian life or to the reserves. This would elevate and strengthen DoD’s attention on services to assist troops as they leave service and enter civilian life, providing a streamlined conduit for coordination with the Department of Veterans Affairs. 
    • Explore international co-production of auxiliary vessels by requiring DoD to identify opportunities to enter joint ventures between U.S. military, U.S. companies and foreign partners to co-produce auxiliary vessels and small boats. Senator Duckworth’s effort aims to increase our nation’s sealift capacity and shipbuilding workforce through leveraging the strengths of our allies and partners in constructing smaller vessels as well as building our ability to surge production of these vessels closer to the point of need in the event of conflict. 
    • Enhance Congressional oversight of the military justice system by requiring the President and DoD to notify Congress of any removal of Judge Advocates General, to ensure that military commanders have the legal advice they need to make their difficult decisions. In addition to notice, the President and DoD must provide a justification for the involuntary removal of any of the top Judge Advocates General (JAG) at least five days before the JAG is removed. This follows Secretary Hegseth’s unceremonious firing of JAGs, which are our military’s legal experts on everything from administrative and domestic protections to international law.  
    • Protect servicemembers from dangerous PFAS in their protective garments by requiring the DoD’s to articulate its plan for acquiring chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear threat protective garments free from toxic PFAS chemicals as soon as possible. 
    • Enable the nonpartisan, Duckworth-created Afghanistan War Commission to finish its final report by authorizing DoD to provide non-reimbursable support services—like staff, facilities and funding—and authorizing the Commission to enter into contracts to obtain essential goods and servicesauthor, including the ability to publish its final report through a private publisher. These provisions align its authorities with similar commissions, including the 9/11 National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States. 
    • Expand the successful Southeast Asia Cyber Pilot Program to allow U.S. forces to work with the Pacific Island nations to improve their cyber capabilities and reduce vulnerabilities, building resilience against threats in DoD’s priority region. 
    • Expand exchange opportunities for allies and partners by authorizing DoD to offer exchange opportunities at universities with ROTC programs for servicemembers from partner nations, creating a cost-effective way to train future leaders of key partner militaries.  
    • Ensure fairness in Special and Incentive Pay for Reservists by directing DoD to deliver a special and incentive pay assessment framework – which was required in the FY24 NDAA — by June 1, 2026, and also requiring DoD to make a specific determination about the percentage of aviation incentive pay that goes to maintaining skill proficiency. This provision is essential to ensuring Reservists are paid fairly when they are required to maintain skills and certifications that are expensive to maintain. 
    • Direct a GAO Report on Aviation Safety to review DoD policies and procedures for data gathering, risk assessment and risk mitigation of U.S. military flights, especially as in U.S. domestic civilian airspace. This provision follows investigations into the tragic crash at Reagan National Airport and close calls with military flights throughout civilian airspace.  
    • Bolster our nation’s aviation supply chain by encouraging the use of domestically manufactured helicopters in Initial Entry Rotary Wing pilot training by the Army. 
    • Improve servicemember mental health services and confidentiality by emphasizing support for consistent compliance with suicide prevention policy and confidential access to mental health care without retaliation for all servicemembers and across all branches. The Senator helped secure this provision alongside U.S. Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ).  
    • Expand robotic enhancements for armaments manufacturing by authorizing an additional $5 million for the Secretary of the Army to expand prototyping and production capacity by integrating robotics, automation and digital manufacturing into the munitions industrial base. 
    • Use advanced manufacturing to improve the rapid repair of equipment in forward-based locations by authorizing digital manufacturing as part of the prototyping program for contested logistics and removing the sunset for the program. This provision would allow DoD to develop best practices regarding forward-based commercial, advanced digital manufacturing facilities for rapid, distributed parts production closer to the point of use. 
    • Elevate research on total force optimization by expressing support for investments in biomechanical, physiological, and psychological research to mitigate injury risks and improve physical resilience in combat operations.
    • Improve equipment connectivity for military airfields by encouraging the Air Force to integrate connectivity solutions for flightline support equipment, such as generators, light carts, and support vehicles, that are critical for ensuring our military aircraft can safely take off and land. This will improve equipment readiness to ensure our Airmen are prepared for expeditionary flightline operations in contested environments. 
    • Advance U.S. bio-industrial manufacturing innovation by supporting the innovative work being done at advanced facilities like the University of Illinois’s Fermentation and Agriculture Biomanufacturing Hub (iFAB) by requiring more information on how DoD is investing in this technology critical for national security. 
    • Illuminate gaps in the military footwear industrial base by requesting DoD provide data and analysis on the necessary war reserves for footwear and textiles, and the accompanying surge needs in the event of crisis or conflict. This report language is a modified version of the Senator’s Better Outfitting Our Troops (BOOTS) Act, which recognizes that our defense industrial base for combat boots needs investment in order for it to support our troops and help ensure they have the sturdiest and most protective boots in a possible war.  
    • Strengthen domestic suppliers of critical uniform components by prohibiting the DoD from sourcing clothing, fabrics or components from countries of concern—such as China, Iran, North Korea and Russia—when using domestic sourcing waivers under the Berry Amendment, to prevent further weakening of the U.S. clothing and textile industrial base.? 
    • Allow the Office of Strategic Capital (OSC) to explore investments in nuclear energy and Printed Circuit Board (PCB) manufacturing by authorizing inclusion of nuclear energy as a covered technology under Section 149 of Title 10 and directing OSC to explore the value of investments in PCBs. This change would enable DoD to explore new investments with these key industries critical for our national security.  
    • Accelerate commercially-useful Fault-Tolerant Quantum Computers (FTQC) by recognizing the importance of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) program, which aims to build a commercially useful FTQC by 2033, and encouraging the Department to concurrently prepare algorithms to operate those machines, while the hardware is being built. This provision recognizes the importance of the development of the first FTQC, which is being built at the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park in Chicago, Illinois. 
    • Improve cross-state medical license reciprocity for Title 32 National Guard medical providers by requiring DoD to analyze any barriers to ensuring medical license reciprocity for Guardsmen to train under Title 32 status. This follows reports from National Guardsmen medical providers that they struggle to get the permissions necessary to conduct essential training across state lines, especially in specialized hospitals for trauma care – vital kinds of training for combat care. 
    • Protect Rock Island Arsenal by restricting the Secretary of the Army from using any funds authorized for restructuring Army commands until the Army provides more information about their proposed plan to integrate Joint Munitions Command and Army Sustainment Command, ensuring operations at Rock Island Arsenal are not unnecessarily affected. 
    • Improve Arsenal Workload Sustainment by establishing a 5-year pilot program requiring DoD to give preference to public-private partnerships in arsenals, especially those non-public partners that ensure equitable workshare to DoD employees to protect critical skills. This provision is a modified version of the  Arsenal Workload Sustainment Act that Duckworth introduced alongside U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) as well as U.S. Representative Eric Sorensen (D-IL-17) to help ensure Army arsenals and factories remain active and viable while preserving the skilled workforce, equipment and production capacity critical to our nation’s defense industrial base. 
    • Improve the governance of the organic industrial base by directing the Army to analyze the effectiveness of their current governance and resourcing model for the Army’s arsenals, depots as well as ammunition plants and identify opportunities for changes to ensure the enterprise and its workforce can support the military’s munitions and sustainment requirements now and in the future. The Senator helped secure this provision alongside Senator Tom Cotton (R-AK).  
    • Improve predictive manufacturing analytics at Army Arsenals by urging the continued implementation of industrial control networks across our Army’s arsenals to enable the collection, aggregation and analysis of data associated with the manufacture and repair of equipment and supplies. 
    • Ensure Lovell Federal Health Care Center (FHCC)’s continued success by securing a one-year extension of the Joint Medical Facility Demonstration Fund, which supports the operations of the North Chicago-based Lovell FHCC. This provision, led with Senator Durbin, will help safeguard continued access to vital services for military families and Veterans in the area. 
    • Improve the “Warm Hand-off Process” for Servicemembers by changing the current “opt-in” option on the DD-2648 form for sending servicemembers’ information to state veterans’ agencies to an “opt-out” option, aiming to streamline information flow to state services and improve the “warm hand-off” process for servicemembers when they separate or retire from the military service. The Senator helped secure this provision alongside U.S. Senators Angus King (I-ME) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND). 
    • Support the construction of a Child Development Center at Rock Island Arsenal by authorizing $50 million in Major Construction funds for a new addition to the Child Development Center at Rock Island Arsenal and to consolidate the existing facilities into a single building and make upgrades to meet DoD guidelines and safety requirements. This project will provide a necessary service to the Arsenal and surrounding community.
    • Support the design of a new Aircraft Maintenance Hangar at Scott Air Force Base by authorizing $6 million in Planning and Design funds for the construction of a new aircraft maintenance hangar to support the training and operational mission of the 126th Aerial Refueling Wing at Scott Air Force Base. The current hangar was constructed in 1956, remains in disrepair and no longer meets Department of Defense standards or mission requirements, making a new hangar critical to the Wing’s mission.
    • Support the design renovation to General Jones Readiness Center by authorizing $5 million in Planning and Design funds for major alternations to the General Richard L. Jones National Guard Readiness Center in Chicago. This facility was built in 1931 and remains one of the largest readiness centers in the country. Renovating it to meet mission requirements is a top priority for the Illinois National Guard.
    • Improving the Tactical Vehicle Fleet by authorizing an additional $168 million to speed up replacement of Marine Corps HMMWVs with modernized vehicles to improve readiness for global missions.

    In addition to these provisions, Duckworth also successfully worked to protect Universities across the country from having their DoD funding for critical technological research cut unnecessarily. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Iran Always Ready for Negotiations on Its Nuclear Program — Foreign Minister

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    TEHRAN, July 12 (Xinhua) — Iran has always been and will be “ready for talks” on its nuclear program, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in Tehran on Saturday.

    “However, naturally, it should be ensured that if negotiations are resumed, this will not lead to a war started by the United States or other parties,” A. Araghchi noted at a meeting with foreign ambassadors and representatives.

    As reported by the Iranian Student News Agency, citing A. Araghchi, the recent clashes between Israel and Iran have proven that there is no alternative to returning to diplomacy and finding a solution based on negotiations and agreements.

    He said the United States “betrayed diplomacy and the negotiating process” by helping Israel attack Iran and then deliberately striking Iranian nuclear facilities.

    If the United States seeks to resume negotiations, it must ensure that such a scenario does not happen again, the Iranian foreign minister said.

    He said that any talks must respect the Iranian people’s nuclear rights, including the country’s uranium enrichment program. Stressing that the only subject of discussion could be Iran’s nuclear program, he added that military aspects were not negotiable.

    Tehran’s cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is not ending and is only taking on a new form, he continued, adding that in the future, Iran’s relations with the IAEA will be coordinated by the country’s Supreme National Security Council, which will make decisions on further cooperation taking into account security issues. –0–

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: China exports medical equipment to over 190 countries and regions

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    SHANGHAI, July 12 (Xinhua) — China exported medical equipment to more than 190 countries and regions last year, according to the 1st China Conference on International Cooperation in Medical Equipment held in east China’s Shanghai Municipality.

    The conference, which runs from Friday to Saturday, is hosted by the China Medical Equipment Association. Hou Yan, chairwoman of the association, said China’s import and export volume of medical equipment has seen an average annual growth rate of 9.4 percent over the past five years, demonstrating the continuous improvement of international competitiveness and the growing influence of Chinese brands, as well as the consistent deepening of international cooperation.

    The conference aims to build a high-level, large-scale and multi-dimensional platform for international exchanges and cooperation, as well as share China’s innovative results and practical experience in the field of medical equipment, Hou Yan added.

    The conference is attended by guests from 17 countries and regions, including senior health officials, experts and business representatives. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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  • Trump intensifies trade war with 30% tariffs on EU and Mexico

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    President Donald Trump on Saturday threatened to impose a 30% tariff on imports from Mexico and the European Union starting on August 1, after weeks of negotiations with the key U.S. allies and top trading partners failed to reach a comprehensive trade deal.

    In an escalation of the trade war that has angered U.S. allies and rattled investors, Trump announced the latest tariffs in separate letters to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum posted on Truth Social on Saturday.

    Both the EU and Mexico responded by calling the tariffs unfair and disruptive while pledging to continue to negotiate with the U.S. for a broader trade deal before the August deadline.

    The European Union and Mexico are among the largest U.S. trading partners.

    Trump has sent similar letters to 23 other U.S. trading partners this week, including Canada, Japan and Brazil, setting blanket tariff rates ranging from 20% up to 50%, as well as a 50% tariff on copper.

    Trump said the 30% tariff rate was “separate from all sectoral tariffs”, which means 50% levies on steel and aluminum imports and a 25% tariff on auto imports would remain at those levels.

    The August 1 deadline gives countries targeted by Trump’s letters time to negotiate a trade deal that could lower the threatened tariff levels.

    The spate of letters shows Trump has returned to the aggressive trade posture that he took in early April when he announced a slew of reciprocal tariffs against trading partners that sent markets tumbling before the White House delayed implementation.

    But with the stock market hitting record highs in recent weeks and a bullish economy, Trump is showing no signs of slowing down his trade war.

    Trump promised to use the 90-day pause in April to strike dozens of new trade deals with trading partners, but has only secured framework agreements with Britain, China and Vietnam.

    The EU had hoped to reach a comprehensive trade agreement with the U.S. for the 27-country bloc.

    Trump’s letter to the EU included a demand that Europe drop its own tariffs, an apparent condition of any future deal.

    “The European Union will allow complete, open Market Access to the United States, with no Tariff being charged to us, in an attempt to reduce the large Trade Deficit,” Trump wrote.

    EU President von der Leyen said the 30% tariffs “would disrupt essential transatlantic supply chains, to the detriment of businesses, consumers and patients on both sides of the Atlantic.”

    She also said while the EU will continue to work towards a trade agreement, they “will take all necessary steps to safeguard EU interests, including the adoption of proportionate countermeasures if required.”

    Mexico’s economy ministry said Saturday that it was informed the U.S. would send a letter during a bilateral meeting Friday with U.S. officials.

    “We mentioned at the roundtable that it was unfair treatment and that we did not agree,” the ministry’s statement said.

    MEXICO’S TARIFF RATE LOWER THAN CANADA’S

    Mexico’s proposed tariff level is lower than Canada’s 35% rate, with both letters citing fentanyl flows even though government data shows the amount of the drug seized at the Mexican border was significantly higher than the Canadian border.

    “Mexico has been helping me secure the border, BUT, what Mexico has done, is not enough. Mexico still has not stopped the Cartels who are trying to turn all of North America into a Narco-Trafficking Playground,” Trump wrote.

    Mexico sends more than 80% of its total exported goods to the U.S. and free trade with its northern neighbor drove Mexico to overtake China as the U.S.’s top trading partner in 2023.

    The EU had initially hoped to strike a comprehensive trade agreement but more recently had scaled back its ambitions and shifted toward securing a broader framework deal similar to the one Britain brokered that leaves key details to be negotiated.

    The 27-country bloc is under conflicting pressures as powerhouse Germany urged a quick deal to safeguard its industry, while other EU members, such as France, have said EU negotiators should not cave into a one-sided deal on U.S. terms.

    Trump’s cascade of tariff orders since returning to the White House has begun generating tens of billions of dollars a month in new revenue for the U.S. government. U.S. customs duties revenue shot past $100 billion in the federal fiscal year through to June, according to U.S. Treasury data on Friday.

    The tariffs have also strained security relationships with some of America’s closest partners.

    Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said last week that Japan needed to wean itself from U.S. dependence in key areas. The fight over tariffs has also prompted Canada and some European allies to reexamine their security dependence on the United States, with some looking to purchase non-U.S. weapons systems.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The head of the European Commission condemned D. Trump’s tariff threats and promised to introduce retaliatory measures if necessary

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BRUSSELS, July 12 (Xinhua) — European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Saturday warned that Washington’s decision to impose 30 percent tariffs on EU exports risks seriously disrupting key transatlantic supply chains, and vowed that the EU would retaliate if necessary.

    “The introduction of 30 percent tariffs on EU exports would disrupt key transatlantic supply chains to the detriment of businesses, consumers and patients on both sides of the Atlantic,” von der Leyen said in a statement.

    The head of the European Commission made the corresponding statement following the statement by US President Donald Trump, who announced that his administration would impose tariffs of 30 percent on EU exports, citing a long-term imbalance in bilateral trade and a lack of reciprocity.

    U. von der Leyen responded that the EU remains committed to a negotiated settlement, but stressed that the European Union will take measures to protect its economic interests if negotiations fail.

    “We remain committed to continuing to work towards reaching an agreement by 1 August,” she added. “At the same time, we will take all necessary steps to safeguard the EU’s interests, including taking proportionate countermeasures if necessary.” –0–

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: D. Trump announced the introduction of 30 percent tariffs on goods from the EU and Mexico from August 1

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    NEW YORK, July 12 (Xinhua) — U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Saturday morning that a 30 percent tariff will be imposed on goods from the European Union and Mexico starting August 1.

    The new duties were announced in letters addressed to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. The messages were published on Trump’s Truth Social page.

    D. Trump criticized Mexico for “failing to stop drug cartels” from smuggling drugs, including fentanyl, into the United States and accused the country of not cooperating enough with Washington to curb illegal immigration.

    As for the European Union, the US President criticised it for its tariff and non-tariff barriers, accusing them of creating “long-term, large and persistent trade deficits”.

    “Our relations, unfortunately, are far from reciprocal,” the president wrote in his letter.

    Trump used much of the same language in his letter as he did in messages sent earlier this week to other leaders, warning them against retaliation, urging them to move companies to the United States and hinting at the possibility of adjusting tariffs if they cooperate.

    Over the past week, the US president has sent more than 20 similar letters to other US trading partners, including Canada, the Republic of Korea, Japan and Brazil, imposing uniform tariff rates on goods from these countries, ranging from 20 to 50 percent. –0–

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Inclusion of Xi Xia Imperial Tombs in UNESCO World Heritage List Promotes Global Civilization Initiative: China’s Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 12 (Xinhua) — The inclusion of the Xi Xia Imperial Tombs in the UNESCO World Heritage list marks a significant achievement in China’s efforts to implement and promote the Global Civilization Initiative, said Rao Quan, vice minister of culture and tourism and director of the National Cultural Heritage Administration.

    The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on Friday inscribed the Xi Xia Imperial Tombs on its World Heritage list, bringing the total number of World Heritage sites in China to 60.

    “The application efforts for inclusion in this list have systematically demonstrated to the international community China’s continued commitment to strengthening the holistic and systematic protection, conservation and sustainable use of its cultural and natural heritage,” Rao Quan said in an interview with Xinhua.

    It was also an opportunity to showcase to the world the historical and cultural values of Chinese civilization, as well as its outstanding features, Zhao Quan added.

    The Xi Xia Tombs, located at the foot of Mount Helan in Yinchuan, capital of Northwest China’s Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, were built by the Tanguts, an ethnic group that lived in northwest China during the 11th to 13th centuries.

    According to Zhao Quan, the Xi Xia Imperial Tombs are the largest, most significant in status, and best-preserved archaeological site that has survived to this day from the Western Xia period (Xi Xia, 1038-1227).

    The survival of these tombs to this day is an important testimony to the cultural fusion and interaction between numerous traditions, serves as vital evidence of the diverse but unified architecture of Chinese civilization and the process of forming a single multinational state, and occupies an irreplaceable place in the history of world civilizations, he added.

    Speaking about the follow-up work related to the Xi Xia Imperial Tombs, the official promised to steadily strengthen the protection of cultural heritage, promote academic research on cultural relics and archaeological finds, strengthen the capacity of heritage management institutions, and improve the systems for displaying and interpreting the cultural value of the site.

    This year marks the 40th anniversary of China’s accession to the Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage. Zhao Quan assured that the National Administration for Cultural Heritage will launch a special campaign to strengthen the protection of China’s World Heritage sites and nominate more sites for inclusion in the World Heritage List.

    The deputy minister called for a more thorough and complete display of Chinese civilization, and for making greater contributions to promoting inter-civilization exchanges and mutual learning, and to the prosperity of world civilizations. –0–

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  • MIL-OSI USA: What They Are Saying: Biodiesel Advocates Applaud Grassley Efforts to Strengthen Iowa’s Renewable Fuels Industry in the One Big Beautiful Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Biodiesel producers, farmers and renewable fuel stakeholders say the One Big Beautiful Bill will revitalize and strengthen Iowa’s renewable fuels industry and deliver for Iowa farmers. 
    On July 4, President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act into law. It improves and extends the Clean Fuels Production Tax Credit through 2029, including the small agri-biodiesel tax credit – which provides transition relief to small biodiesel producers. After the Biden administration failed to release functional guidance to implement the credit, many small producers, including four in Iowa, shut down operations.  
    The legislation also protects Iowa farmers by eliminating tax subsidies for renewable fuels produced from imported feedstocks, such as used cooking oil from China or tallow and sugar cane from Brazil. Without this change, the tax code would subsidize foreign farmers at the expense of corn and soybean farmers in Iowa. ? 
    Here’s what they’re saying:
    Iowa Biodiesel Board/Iowa Soybean Association 
    “Senator Grassley’s leadership on ensuring the incorporation of biomass-based diesel in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act reinforces his decades-long commitment to Iowa agriculture and renewable fuels. In particular, by extending and enhancing the Small Agri-Biodiesel Producer Credit led by the senator, this bill provides much-needed certainty for Iowa’s small biodiesel producers—many of which are farmer-owned. That stability directly supports rural jobs, strengthens soybean oil demand and keeps biodiesel production thriving across our state.” 
    Iowa Renewable Fuels Association
    “Led by Sen. Chuck Grassley, the final bill includes a restoration of the small biodiesel producer tax credit for 2025 and 2026. We are hopeful this provision, along with the robust RFS blending levels proposed by President Trump’s EPA, will be enough to get our biodiesel plants running again.” 
    Clean Fuels Alliance America
    “Clean Fuels thanks Congress for working overtime to provide certainty for biodiesel and renewable diesel producers – especially small companies – so they can resume production and industry growth. Clean Fuels especially thanks Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) for securing an enhancement to the Small Agri-Biodiesel Producer Credit to help small producers as they make the transition to the §45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit.” 
    National Oilseed Processors Association
    “We applaud Senator Grassley for his tireless efforts to improve 45Z to ensure it is effective for U.S. farmers, oilseed processors, and biofuel producers. This is a meaningful win for Iowa’s farmers and the broader ag economy. Coupled with strong RVOs, this new tax policy positions the industry for continued growth by prioritizing feedstocks grown and produced here in the U.S.” 
    American Soybean Association
    “ASA is pleased that the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit has been extended and strengthened in the budget reconciliation legislation. The improvements to 45Z will provide critical support to U.S. soybean farmers and bolster the biofuel industry by supporting domestic energy production using domestic resources. The addition of the North American feedstock ringfence and removal of indirect land use change penalties on farmers ensure that the credit will support American agriculture rather than foreign countries. We commend the lawmakers who prioritized this important policy and look forward to its successful enactment.” 
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Q&A: Wins for Rural America Signed into Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    Q: How did you leverage your leadership for alternative energy?
    A: More than three decades ago, I helped launch Iowa’s rise to dominance in alternative energy with the first-ever federal wind energy tax credit. Wind energy supports more than 9,000 jobs in Iowa and generates more than 60% of our state’s electricity, making it the largest source of electricity in Iowa. During negotiations on the One Big Beautiful Bill, I fought tooth and nail to secure a 12-month runway that allows planned wind and solar projects to begin construction after the law’s enactment. This victory prevented a devastating blow to alternative energy that would have stunted investment, innovation and production when there’s growing demand for clean, affordable electricity. My efforts will help accelerate near-term growth in these projects to get them from the drawing board to installation and production while also providing the industry a sensible pathway to self-sustainability. It puts wind and solar on a level playing field with other technologies with respect to imported materials and components. Specifically, I led efforts to strike a punitive new tax on wind and solar projects that would have sunk domestic production and investment, as well as job creation here at home.
    Q: What new measures will boost Iowa’s renewable fuels industry?
    A: Iowa’s farm economy drives the state economy, employing nearly one in five Iowans in agriculture or ag-related industries. Family farmers across the state take pride in growing crops that feed and fuel the world. As a lifelong family farmer and tireless champion for the livelihoods and way of life for farm families, I brought the concerns of Iowa farmers to the policymaking tables during negotiations on the One Big Beautiful Bill. That includes expanding domestic markets for feedstock. The renewable fuels industry adds value to homegrown corn and soybean crops. I successfully fought to eliminate tax subsidies for renewable fuels produced from imported feedstocks, such as used cooking oil from China or tallow and sugar cane from Brazil. In 2023, the U.S. imported three billion pounds of used cooking oil that exploited tax incentives and clean fuel policies. The U.S. taxpayer should not foot the bill for subsidies that benefit foreign farmers at the expense of corn and soybean farmers from Iowa. Ensuring our nation’s renewable fuel policies benefit American farmers was my top priority as I fought to improve and extend the Clean Fuels Production Tax Credit through 2029.  I also successfully secured transition relief for small biodiesel producers who shut down operations during the previous administration due to a lack of workable guidance implementing this credit. Taken together, this is a victory for Iowa farmers and Iowa renewable fuel producers.
    Q: What’s in the new law for Iowa farmers?
    A: Iowa farmers waited two years for Congress to update the five-year Farm Bill. High input costs for seed, fertilizer, fuel, machinery and rent were cutting into the bottom line, making it difficult for farming operations to make ends meet, let alone turn a profit. The farm safety net needed to reflect the double-digit increase to farm production costs. With President Trump’s signature on July 4, the new law increases reference prices and boosts the effective reference price escalator for the 2025 through 2031 crop years. That raises the benchmark for farm payments, such as the Price Loss Coverage (PLC) and Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) programs, to help ensure the farm safety net reflects higher input costs. The law also improves crop insurance for beginning farmers for the first decade of their operations, increasing the coverage level and affordability of certain crop insurance policies. Iowa’s agrarian heritage is not only the backbone of our state’s economy, it’s a way of life. Iowans should not be punished for wanting to keep a family farm in the family. For nearly two centuries, Iowa families have handed the reins of their farming operation to their kids and grandkids. An unfair, punitive death tax would force sons and daughters to sell the family land to pay the federal estate tax liability. I’ve long championed efforts to repeal the death tax and was glad to support provisions in the new law that permanently boost the death tax exemption, raising it to $15 million for individuals and $30 million for couples. In addition, the new law provides critical investments in conservation, ag research, trade promotion and animal health to help fight disease outbreaks, such as New World screwworm (NWS), Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and African swine fever (ASF), to support livestock producers and protect the food supply.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Russian and North Korean Foreign Ministers Hold Second Round of Strategic Dialogue Talks

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Moscow, July 12 /Xinhua/ — Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held talks with North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hee in the city of Wonsan in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea on Saturday as part of the second round of strategic dialogue, the Russian Foreign Ministry reported.

    “The heads of the foreign policy departments thoroughly discussed current issues of developing bilateral relations, including the schedule of upcoming political contacts. Particular attention was paid to the prospects for further cooperation in practical areas,” the statement published on the official website of the Russian Foreign Ministry noted.

    As stated in the report, a keen exchange of views took place on the situation on the Korean Peninsula and in Northeast Asia (NEA). Mutual commitment to a political and diplomatic solution to the problems existing there was confirmed. The parties emphasized their determination to jointly counter the hegemonic aspirations of extra-regional players, which are leading to escalating tensions in NEA and the entire Asia-Pacific region.

    Following the negotiations, a Plan for Inter-Ministerial Exchanges between Russia and the DPRK for 2026-2027 was signed.

    According to the Korean Central News Agency, S. Lavrov arrived at Wonsan airport on Friday night, beginning his visit to the DPRK. His visit will last from July 11 to 13. –0–

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