NewzIntel.com

Category: Commerce

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bergen County Man Sentenced to Twenty Months in Prison for COVID-19 Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEWARK N.J. – A New Jersey man was sentenced to 20 months in prison for fraudulently obtaining approximately $149,900 in federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans (“EIDL”) loans, U.S. Alina Habba announced.

    George Leguen, 51, of Paramus, New Jersey, previously plead guilty before U.S. District Judge Madeline Cox Arleo to an information charging him with wire fraud and money laundering. Judge Arleo imposed the sentence in Newark federal court.

    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

    From August 2020 through January 2021, Leguen participated in a scheme to defraud and receive COVID-19 emergency relief funds meant for distressed small businesses under the EIDL program. Leguen applied to the Small Business Administration (“SBA”) on behalf of a business he owned and controlled. He falsified information that he submitted in support of that application, including the number of employees, annual gross revenue figures, and fraudulent federal tax returns. Based on this false information, Leguen was approved for and received an EIDL loan in the amount of $149,900. After receiving the EIDL funds, he diverted the proceeds for his personal gain.

    In addition to the prison term, Judge Arleo sentenced Leguen to 3 years of supervised release, forfeiture was ordered in the amount of $149,900, and restitution in the amount of $174,426.37.

    U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Newark Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jenifer Piovesan; the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Cheryl Ortiz of the New Jersey Field Division; special agents of the U.S. Secret Service, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Aaron Hatley, Newark Field Office; and special agents of the U.S. Department of Labor – Office of the Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Mellone, Northeast Region, with the investigation.

    The District of New Jersey COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Strike Force is one of five strike forces established throughout the United States by the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute COVID-19 fraud. The strike forces focus on large-scale, multi-state pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors. The strike forces are interagency law enforcement efforts, using prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams designed to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Fatime Meka Cano of the Economic Crimes Unit in Newark.

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

                                                                           ###

    Defense counsel: Jeffrey Lichtman, Esq. and Matthew Cohan, Esq. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Legislation considered under suspension of the Rules of the House of Representatives during the week of June 2, 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    The Majority Leader of the House of Representatives announces bills that will be considered under suspension of the rules in that chamber. Under suspension, floor debate is limited, all floor amendments are prohibited, points of order against the bill are waived, and final passage requires a two-thirds majority vote.

    At the request of the Majority Leader and the House Committee on the Budget, CBO estimates the effects of those bills on direct spending and revenues. CBO has limited time to review the legislation before consideration. Although it is possible in most cases to determine whether the legislation would affect direct spending or revenues, time may be insufficient to estimate the magnitude of those effects. If CBO has prepared estimates for similar or identical legislation, a more detailed assessment of budgetary effects, including effects on spending subject to appropriation, may be included.

    CBO’s estimates of the bills that have been posted for possible consideration under suspension of the rules during the week of June 2, 2025, include:

    • H.R. 787, Plain Language in Contracting Act, as amended
    • H.R. 789, Transparency and Predictability in Small Business Opportunities Act, as amended
    • H.R. 1621, Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Reporting Act of 2025, as amended
    • H.R. 1634, ThinkDIFFERENTLY About Disability Employment Act, as amended
    • H.R. 1642, Connecting Small Businesses with Career and Technical Education Graduates Act of 2025
    • H.R. 1804, 7(a) Loan Agent Oversight Act
    • H.R. 1816, WOSB Accountability Act, as amended
    • H.R. 3490, Gerald E. Connolly Esophageal Cancer Awareness Act of 2025, as amended
    • S. 160, Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act of 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House and Senate Democrats Send Letter Calling on GAO to Investigate Federal Worker Firings

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC –  In response to the Trump Administration’s unprecedented purge of tens of thousands of federal workers without cause, Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on FSGG Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Acting Ranking Member on the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Rep. Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee on Government Operations Rep. Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), and Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee on Delivering On Government Efficiency (DOGE) Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) led more than 30 Democrats in sending a letter to Comptroller General of the United States Gene L. Dodaro calling on the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to provide Congress with regular updates on how the Trump Administration’s personnel actions are affecting the federal workforce.

    “Over the past several months, the civil service has undergone an unprecedented level of change as tens of thousands of federal employees have been terminated, resigned, or placed on administrative leave,” the Members wrote. “Americans are already feeling the consequences – longer wait times for Social Security assistance, delayed veterans’ benefits, and disrupted disaster response are just a few examples of how these personnel actions are impacting people across the country. We are deeply concerned about the impact these actions will have on our government’s capacity to design, develop and deliver efficient services that connect agencies with the people they serve and meet the needs of the public.”

    Signatories include: Senator Angela D. Alsobrooks; Rep. Yassamin Ansari; Rep. Wesley Bell; Rep. Donald Beyer; Rep. Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.; Senator Richard Blumenthal; Rep. Shontel Brown; Rep. Greg Casar; Rep. Jasmine Crockett; Rep. Sarah Elfreth; Rep. Maxwell Frost; Rep. Robert Garcia; Rep. Glenn Ivey; Senator Timothy Kaine; Rep. Ro Khanna; Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi; Rep. Summer Lee; Rep. April McClain Delaney; Rep. Jennifer McClellan; Rep. Dave Min; Senator Patty Murray; Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton; Senator Alex Padilla; Rep. Emily Randall; Rep. Jamie Raskin; Senator Bernard Sanders; Senator Brian Schatz; Rep. Lateefah Simon; Rep. Suhas Subramanyam; Rep. Rashida Tlaib; Rep. Eugene Vindman; and Senator Mark R. Warner.

    The full text of the letter is included below:
     

    May 29, 2025
     

    The Honorable Gene L. Dodaro
    Comptroller General of the United States
    Government Accountability Office
    441 G Street, N.W.
    Washington D.C. 20548

    Dear Comptroller General Dodaro:

    The 2 million federal employees who work across our country are the backbone of our federal government and are responsible for delivering vital services to the American people. These individuals dedicate their lives to public service and ensure our government fulfills its mission to make our country safer, healthier and more prosperous.

    Over the past several months, the civil service has undergone an unprecedented level of change as tens of thousands of federal employees have been terminated, resigned, or placed on administrative leave. Americans are already feeling the consequences – longer wait times for Social Security assistance, delayed veterans’ benefits, and disrupted disaster response are just a few examples of how these personnel actions are impacting people across the country. We are deeply concerned about the impact these actions will have on our government’s capacity to design, develop and deliver efficient services that connect agencies with the people they serve and meet the needs of the public.

    To assist our oversight of the federal government’s personnel actions, we request that the Government Accountability Office provide us with regular briefings to ensure Congress has timely data and information on the status of the federal workforce. Specifically, we request that GAO begin providing the information following each quarter through the end of fiscal year 2028 to be scheduled in coordination with applicable staff. Information on the total number of the following groups of federal employees in the 24 CFO agencies categorized by agency of employment, location, occupation and tenure by quarter –

    a. All terminated federal employees who are separated for any reason;

    b. Federal employees who took the deferred resignation program offer;

    c. Federal employees in their probationary period;

    d. Federal employees in their probationary period who were terminated;

    e. Federal employees on administrative leave.

    f. Federal employees hired.

    Any difficulties experienced by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) in its collection, analysis, and publication of human capital data.

    Thank you for your attention to this matter.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Help Where It’s Needed Most: FEMA, SBA, and the State of Oklahoma Team Up in Wildfire-Damaged Counties

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Help Where It’s Needed Most: FEMA, SBA, and the State of Oklahoma Team Up in Wildfire-Damaged Counties

    Help Where It’s Needed Most: FEMA, SBA, and the State of Oklahoma Team Up in Wildfire-Damaged Counties

    OKLAHOMA CITY –In coordination with the State of Oklahoma, FEMA and the U

    S

    Small Business Administration (SBA) will be offering face-to-face help at community sites for residents in Oklahoma counties affected by the March 14-21 wildfires and straight-line winds

     Homeowners and renters in Cleveland, Creek, Lincoln, Logan, Oklahoma, Pawnee, and Payne counties may be eligible for FEMA assistance for losses not covered by insurance

    Staff will be available at the following locations:CREEK COUNTYFirst Baptist Church of Mannford105 Greenwood AvenueMannford, OK  74044Hours: Monday – Friday from 9 a

    m

    – 6 p

    m

    On Saturday June 7, the facility will be open from 10 a

    m

    – 6 p

    m

    LINCOLN COUNTYCarney High School203 Carney StreetCarney, OK  74832Hours: Monday – Friday from 9 a

    m

    – 6 p

    m

    On Saturday May 31 and June 7, the facility will be open from 9 a

    m

    – 6 p

    m

    LOGAN COUNTYLogan County Courthouse Annex Across the street north of the courthouse in the old Girl Scout Room312 E Harrison AvenueGuthrie, OK  73044 Hours: Monday – Friday from 9 a

    m

    – 6 p

    m

    On Saturday May 31 and June 7, the facility will be open from 9 a

    m

    – 6 p

    m

    PAWNEE COUNTYFirst Baptist Church Cleveland201 W Crestview DrCleveland, OK 74020Hours: Monday – Friday from 8 a

    m

    to 5 p

    m

    On Saturday May 31 and June 7, the facility will be open from 8 a

    m

    – 5 p

    m

    PAYNE COUNTYCity of Stillwater Community CenterRoom 102315 W 8th AvenueStillwater, OK 74074Hours: Monday – Friday from 9 a

    m

    – 6 p

    m

    On Saturday May 31 and June 7, the facility will be open from 9 a

    m

    – 5 p

    m

    This location will close permanently on Wednesday, June 11 at 6 p

    m

     Additional locations may be added

    Residents can visit any open center to meet with representatives from FEMA and SBA

    No appointment is needed

    SBA’s Customer Service Representatives are available at the centers to answer questions, assist business owners complete their disaster loan application, accept documents, and provide updates on an application’s status

     For information and to apply online visit SBA

    gov/disaster

    Applicants may also call the SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba

    gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance

    For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services

    Survivors can apply to FEMA in several ways including going online to DisasterAssistance

    gov, downloading the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362

    Calls are accepted every day from 6 a

    m

    to 10 p

    m

    CT

    Help is available in most languages

     If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service

    To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube

    For more information, visit fema

    gov/disaster/4866

    Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x

    com/FEMARegion6 and at facebook

    com/FEMARegion6/

    thomas

    wise
    Fri, 05/30/2025 – 12:46

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DBEDT NEWS RELEASE: Visitor Industry Grows Again in April 2025

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DBEDT NEWS RELEASE: Visitor Industry Grows Again in April 2025

    Posted on May 29, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

     

     

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

    DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM

    KA ʻOIHANA HOʻOMOHALA PĀʻOIHANA, ʻIMI WAIWAI A HOʻOMĀKAʻIKAʻI

     

    RESEARCH AND ECONOMIC ANALYSIS DIVISION

     

    JAMES KUNANE TOKIOKA

    DIRECTOR

    KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

     

    1. EUGENE TIAN

    CHIEF STATE ECONOMIST

     

     

    VISITOR INDUSTRY GROWS AGAIN IN APRIL 2025

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    May 29, 2025

     

    HONOLULU – According to preliminary statistics from the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT), total visitor arrivals and total visitor spending in April 2025 increased compared to the same month last year. There were 833,219 visitors to the Hawaiian Islands in April 2025, up 7.9 percent from April 2024. Total visitor spending measured in nominal dollars was $1.69 billion, which was growth of 9.4 percent from April 2024. When compared to pre-pandemic 2019 levels, April 2025 total visitor arrivals represent a 98.1 percent recovery from April 2019 and total visitor spending was higher than April 2019 ($1.32 billion, +28.3%).

    In April 2025, 810,276 visitors arrived by air service, mainly from the U.S. West and U.S. East. Additionally, 22,943 visitors came via out-of-state cruise ships. In comparison, 740,720 visitors (+9.4%) arrived by air and 31,695 visitors (-27.6%) came by cruise ships in April 2024, and 824,610 visitors (-1.7%) arrived by air and 24,787 visitors (-7.4%) came by cruise ships in April 2019. The average length of stay by all visitors in April 2025 was 8.36 days, compared to 8.28 days (+1.1%) in April 2024 and 8.25 days (+1.4%) in April 2019. The statewide average daily census was 232,323 visitors in April 2025, compared to 213,080 visitors (+9.0%) in April 2024 and 233,616 visitors (-0.6%) in April 2019.

    In April 2025, 457,248 visitors arrived from the U.S. West, which was an increase compared to April 2024 (400,070 visitors, +14.3%) and April 2019 (388,573 visitors, +17.7%). U.S. West visitor spending of $855.0 million rose from April 2024 ($765.2 million, +11.7%), and was much higher than April 2019 ($547.0 million, +56.3%). Daily spending by U.S. West visitors in April 2025 ($234 per person) decreased slightly from April 2024 ($236 per person, -0.8%) but was up considerably from April 2019 ($171 per person, +36.7%).

    In April 2025, arrivals from the U.S. East of 180,383 visitors increased from April 2024 (176,339 visitors, +2.3%) and April 2019 (159,115 visitors, +13.4%). U.S. East visitor spending of $449.1 million rose from April 2024 ($436.8 million, +2.8%) and was significantly more than April 2019 ($286.8 million, +56.6%). Daily spending by U.S. East visitors in April 2025 ($277 per person) increased from April 2024 ($273 per person, +1.4%) and was much more than April 2019 ($200 per person, +38.4%).

    There were 52,358 visitors from Japan in April 2025, an increase from April 2024 (50,626 visitors, +3.4%) but continued to be much lower than April 2019 (119,487 visitors, -56.2%). Visitors from Japan spent $77.4 million in April 2025, compared to $75.1 million (+3.0%) in April 2024 and $164.0 million (-52.8%) in April 2019. Daily spending by Japanese visitors in April 2025 ($245 per person) was higher than April 2024 ($238 per person, +3.2%) and April 2019 ($234 per person, +5.0%).

    In April 2025, 36,381 visitors arrived from Canada, down from April 2024 (38,936 visitors, -6.6%) and April 2019 (56,749 visitors, -35.9%). Visitors from Canada spent $91.0 million in April 2025 compared to $88.3 million (+3.0%) in April 2024 and $100.2 million (-9.2%) in April 2019. Daily spending by Canadian visitors in April 2025 ($224 per person) increased from April 2024 ($221 per person, +1.6%) and was much higher than April 2019 ($154 per person, +45.8%).

    There were 83,905 visitors from all other international markets in April 2025, which included visitors from Oceania, Other Asia, Europe, Latin America, Guam, the Philippines, and the Pacific Islands. In comparison, there were 74,749 visitors (+12.2%) from all other international markets in April 2024 and 100,686 visitors (-16.7%) in April 2019.

    In April 2025, a total of 4,885 transpacific flights with 1,085,113 seats serviced the Hawaiian Islands. Total air capacity was similar to April 2024 (4,890 flights, -0.1% with 1,080,344 seats +0.4%) but less than April 2019 (5,031 flights, -2.9% with 1,112,200 seats, -2.4%).

    Year-to-Date 2025

     

    A total of 3,288,966 visitors arrived in the first four months of 2025, up 3.2 percent from 3,186,223 visitors in the first four months of 2024. Total arrivals decreased 2.6 percent when compared to 3,376,675 visitors in the first four months of 2019.

    In the first four months of 2025, total visitor spending was $7.30 billion, an increase compared to the first four months of 2024 ($6.82 billion, +7.2%) and the first four months of 2019 ($5.81 billion, +25.7%).

    VIEW FULL NEWS RELEASE AND TABLES

     

    Statement by DBEDT Director James Kunane Tokioka

     

    April was a solid month for the visitor industry. The industry has performed well during the first four months of 2025, mainly driven by continued growth in the U.S. markets (U.S. West and U.S. East). U.S. arrivals grew by 5.5 percent, offsetting the decline in arrivals from international markets.

     

    We expect a modest slowdown in tourism during the summer season caused by uncertainties in the political and economic environment both nationally and internationally. We believe the situation will be temporary and anticipate the state’s tourism industry to rebound in 2026.

    # # #

     

     

    Media Contacts:

     

    Laci Goshi 

    Communications Officer

    Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism

    Cell: 808-518-5480

    Email: [email protected]

     

    Jennifer Chun

    Director of Tourism Research

    Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism

    Phone: 808-973-9446

    Email: [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: With Over $42 BILLION In Vital Broadband Funding Still Held Up By Trump Administration, Leader Schumer, Ranking Member Cantwell, And Senator Luján Demand Admin Stop The Delays & Immediately Release The Funding Into American Communities; Senators Say 25 Million Americans Still Lack High-Speed Internet As Bipartisan Funding Lingers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), along with Commerce Committee Ranking Member Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), sent the following letter to Commerce Secretary Lutnick and President Trump demanding that the Commerce Department immediately release the $42 billion allocated for the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program.

    Today, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), along with Ranking Member of the Commerce Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media, Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), sent the following letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and President Trump demanding the immediate release the $42 billion allocated for the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program as part of the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This program was designed to help our country on its path to creating universal access to high-speed internet – vital for remote work, education, job training and applications, telehealth, emergency services, and more. With the endless delays to get the crucial funding out the door and into American communities, 25 million people across our country risk going without access to the internet. 

    “States have spent years developing implementation plans under the BEAD program to reach every American with high-speed internet access. These plans reflect local needs, technical realities, and the bipartisan intent of Congress,” the Senators wrote. “States are ready to put shovels in the ground and have been waiting for months to get started connecting communities and building networks that will support the industries of tomorrow. Additional delays and onerous changes to the program at this stage threaten to further stall urgently needed deployment and leave communities behind.”

    The Senators also noted that beyond everyday applications of high-speed internet, this money is also essential to ensuring that America is able to maintain its competitive edge over countries such as China. Al systems – including data centers, chip manufacturing facilities and more – require access to power and internet. Without proper broadband networks in place, communities will not be able to house these job-creating facilities. Our government must work to ensure that all areas in our country – especially rural ones – are able to contribute to America’s innovative edge and technological dominance. Without BEAD funding getting out the door, these rural communities risk falling either further behind. 

    States have spent months developing plans to break ground and build high-speed, scalable, and reliable networks everywhere. The Trump administration should not throttle this process or delay it just to give more money to the world’s richest man. The Senators urge the immediate and swift release of all BEAD program funding.

    BEAD Grant Allocations By State

    State Amount
    Texas $3,312,616,455.45
    California $1,864,136,508.93
    Missouri $1,736,302,708.39
    Michigan $1,559,362,479.29
    North Carolina $1,532,999,481.15
    Virginia $1,481,489,572.87
    Alabama $1,401,221,901.77
    Louisiana $1,355,554,552.94
    Georgia $1,307,214,371.30
    Washington $1,227,742,066.30
    West Virginia $1,210,800,969.85
    Mississippi $1,203,561,563.05
    Florida $1,169,947,392.70
    Pennsylvania $1,161,778,272.41
    Kentucky $1,086,172,536.86
    Wisconsin $1,055,823,573.71
    Illinois $1,040,420,751.50
    Arkansas $1,024,303,993.86
    Alaska $1,017,139,672.42
    Arizona $993,112,231.37
    Indiana $868,109,929.79
    Colorado $826,522,650.41
    Tennessee $813,319,680.22
    Oklahoma $797,435,691.25
    Ohio $793,688,107.63
    Oregon $688,914,932.17
    New Mexico $675,372,311.86
    New York $664,618,251.49
    Minnesota $651,839,368.20
    Montana $628,973,798.59
    Idaho $583,256,249.88
    South Carolina $551,535,983.05
    Kansas $451,725,998.15
    Nevada $416,666,229.74
    Iowa $415,331,313.00
    Nebraska $405,281,070.41
    Wyoming $347,877,921.27
    Puerto Rico $334,614,151.70
    Utah $317,399,741.54
    Maine $271,977,723.07
    Maryland $267,738,400.71
    New Jersey $263,689,548.65
    Vermont $228,913,019.08
    South Dakota $207,227,523.92
    New Hampshire $196,560,278.97
    Guam $156,831,733.59
    Hawaii $149,484,493.57
    Massachusetts $147,422,464.39
    Connecticut $144,180,792.71
    North Dakota $130,162,815.12
    Rhode Island    $108,718,820.75
    Delaware $107,748,384.66
    District of Columbia $100,694,786.93
    Northern Mariana Islands $80,796,709.02
    American Samoa $37,564,827.53
    U.S. Virgin Islands $27,103,240.86

    The letter can be seen here and below.

    Dear Sec. Lutnick and President Trump,

    Congress created the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program as part of the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to finish the job of connecting everyone and building high-speed, scalable, and reliable networks everywhere. For six months, states have been waiting to break ground on scores of projects, held back only by the Commerce Department’s bureaucratic delays. If states are forced to redo or rework their plans, they will not only miss this year’s construction season but next year’s as well, delaying broadband deployment by years. That’s why we urge the Administration to move swiftly to approve state plans, and release the $42 billion allocated to the states by the BEAD Program. 

    Universal access to high-speed internet is essential for jobs, education, and telehealth—and also for the bandwidth-hungry innovation economy, from artificial intelligence and advanced robotics to smart manufacturing and semiconductor production. Further delay means 25 million Americans continue to wait for high-speed internet and the economic benefits it brings. It also means that we risk falling behind China, which is aggressively building out digital infrastructure to support its AI, advanced manufacturing, and semiconductor ambitions. 

    States have already developed plans to address these needs, and restarting or slowing down the process will only hold back progress. States must maintain the flexibility to choose the highest quality broadband options, rather than be forced by bureaucrats in Washington to funnel funds to Elon Musk’s Starlink, which lacks the scalability, reliability, and speed of fiber or other terrestrial broadband solutions.

    High-speed, reliable, and scalable connectivity is essential for jobs, education, and telehealth. It’s also the backbone for the advanced industries of today and tomorrow. AI systems require massive volumes of data and low-latency networks to operate effectively. Data centers, smart warehouses, robotic assembly lines, and chip fabrication plants all depend on fast, stable, and scalable bandwidth. If we want these job-creating facilities built throughout the United States, including rural areas, we must ensure the infrastructure—including high-speed internet networks—is in place to support them. If we want AI developed and deployed in the United States, if we want to win the race for semiconductor dominance, if we want the next generation of manufacturing jobs to be created here, then we must act now—and we must build the high-speed, high-capacity networks those technologies demand.

    States have spent years developing implementation plans under the BEAD program to reach every American with high-speed internet access. These plans reflect local needs, technical realities, and the bipartisan intent of Congress. States are ready to put shovels in the ground and have been waiting for months to get started connecting communities and building networks that will support the industries of tomorrow. Additional delays and onerous changes to the program at this stage threaten to further stall urgently needed deployment and leave communities behind. 

    We urge you to move forward with the submitted BEAD plans and deliver on the promise of the BEAD program without further delay. Every American and every community needs access to reliable, scalable, and high-speed internet if we are to remain the world’s innovation leader.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Quantum eMotion Announces Upsized Brokered LIFE Financing of C$12,000,000

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO THE U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

    MONTREAL, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Quantum eMotion Corp. (“QeM” or the “Corporation”) (TSX.V: QNC; OTCQB: QNCCF; FSE: 34Q0) is pleased to announce that it has increased the size of its previously announced best efforts brokered private placement due to increased institutional demand for total gross proceeds of C$12,000,000 (the “Offering”), consisting of 8,000,000 units of the Corporation (each a “Unit”) at a price of C$1.50 per Unit (the “Offering Price”), pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption (the “LIFE Exemption”) under Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106 – Prospectus Exemptions (“NI 45-106”).

    A.G.P. Canada Investments ULC (“Agent“) is acting as the sole bookrunner and agent for the Offering and A.G.P./Alliance Global Partners is acting as sole U.S. placement agent for the Offering.

    Subject to compliance with applicable regulatory requirements and in accordance with NI 45-106, the securities issued pursuant to the LIFE Exemption are expected to be immediately freely tradeable and will not be subject to a hold period under applicable Canadian securities laws. The Units may also be offered to persons in the United States pursuant to exemptions from the registration requirements under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”) and all applicable U.S. state securities laws, as well as outside Canada and the United States on a basis which does not require the qualification or registration of any of the Corporation’s common shares or require the Corporation to be subject to any ongoing disclosure requirements under any domestic securities laws.

    There is an offering document related to the Offering that can be accessed under the Corporation’s profile at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Corporation website at https://www.quantumemotion.com/. Prospective investors should read this offering document before making an investment decision.

    It is expected that closing of the Offering will take place on or about June 2, 2025 (the “Closing Date”). Closing of the Offering is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, receipt of all necessary approvals.

    This press release is not an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to qualification or registration under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. The securities being offered have not been, nor will they be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act” ), and such securities may not be offered or sold to, or for the account or benefit of, persons in the United States or U.S. persons absent registration or an applicable exemption from U.S. registration requirements. “ United States” and “ U.S. persons” have the meanings ascribed to them in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act.

    About Quantum eMotion

    The Company’s mission is to address the growing demand for affordable hardware and software security for connected devices. Thanks to its patented Quantum Random Number Generator, QeM has become a pioneering force in classical and quantum cybersecurity solutions. This security solution exploits quantum mechanics’ built-in unpredictability and promises to provide enhanced protection for high-value assets and critical systems. For further information, please visit our website at https://www.quantumemotion.com/ or contact us at: info@quantumemotion.com

    The Company intends to target highly valued Financial Services, Healthcare, Blockchain Applications, Cloud-Based IT Security Infrastructure, Classified Government Krown Technologies and Communication Systems, Secure Device Keying (IOT, Automotive, Consumer Electronics) and Quantum Cryptography.

    For further information, please visit our website at https://www.quantumemotion.com/ or contact:

    Francis Bellido, Chief Executive Officer

    Tel: 514.956.2525

    Email: info@quantumemotion.com

    Website: www.quantumemotion.com

    Cautionary Note regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws, which is based upon the Corporation’s current internal expectations, estimates, projections, assumptions and beliefs. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, statements concerning the Corporation’s expectations with respect to the use of proceeds and the use of the available funds following completion of the Offering, the completion of the Offering, if it is to be completed at all; the expected Closing Date; and the completion of the Corporation’s business objectives, and the timing, costs, and benefits thereof. Forward-looking statements or forward-looking information relate to future events and future performance and include statements regarding the expectations and beliefs of management based on information currently available to the Corporation. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information often, but not always, can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “potential”, “is expected”, “anticipated”, “is targeted”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes” or the negatives thereof or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or forward-looking information are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including, without limitation, risks and uncertainties relating risks inherent to the cybersecurity industry, the value of the Corporation’s intangible assets, completing proof of concept studies, protecting intangible assets rights, timing and availability of external financing on acceptable terms or at all, the possibility that future results will not be consistent with the Corporation’s expectations, increases in costs, changes in legislation and regulation, changes in economic and political conditions and other risks involved in the cybersecurity industry and inherent to new technologies, such as risk of obsolescence, slow adoption and competing technological advances; and those risks set out in the Corporation’s public documents filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Although the Corporation has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that could cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. For more information on the Corporation and the risks and challenges of its business, investors should review the Corporation’s annual filings that are available at www.sedarplus.ca. The Corporation provides no assurance that forward-looking statements or forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements and information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Corporation disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information.

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: De La Cruz, Sykes Announce Bipartisan Women’s Caucus Shared Agenda for Women and Families

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Monica De La Cruz (TX-15)

    Washington, DC – Co-chairs, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (R-TX) and Congresswoman Emilia Strong Sykes (D-OH), along with Vice-Chairs, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY) and Congresswoman Janelle Bynum (D-OR) announce theBipartisan Women’s Caucus priorities for the 119th Congress.

    The Caucus outlined the following legislative priorities:

    • Caregiving:Exploring ways to better support caregivers

    • Food and Nutrition:Expanding access to healthy and nutritious food

    • Small Business and Entrepreneurship:Promoting programs for women-owned businesses

    • STEM/STEAM:Creating greater opportunities and a pipeline for women and girls

    • Women Veterans:Addressing military sexual trauma and enhancing research on women veterans’ health

    • Violence Against Women:Supporting efforts to promote the economic security of survivors

    • Women’s Health:Strengthening and funding maternal health, mid-life health and expanding IVF insurance coverage

    • Women’s History Museum:Ensuring women’s contributions throughout our country’s history is recognized and honored

    “As Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Women’s Caucus, I’m committed to working across the aisle to advance policies that support women-owned small businesses, strengthen families, and expand access to childcare and elder care.Empowering women is at the heart of our mission, and I look forward to delivering commonsense solutions on the priorities we share.”-Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15)

     

    “As the representative for one of the most bipartisan congressional districts in the country, it is an honor to Co-Chair the Bipartisan Women’s Caucus to prioritize real change for women and girls in America. Whether we are working to raise awareness around violence against women, improving women’s health, expanding opportunities for women and girls in STEAM, or engaging in efforts to improve access to healthy foods and ensure food is safe for our children, I am grateful for the opportunity to work with so many amazing women across the political spectrum to make sure that women and girls are not left behind by our government.”–Congresswoman Emilia Strong Sykes (OH-13)

     

    “As Vice-Chair serving in the Bipartisan Women’s Caucus, I remain committed to advancing commonsense, bipartisan policies that support women and families nationwide. We’ve worked to increase the Child Tax Credit and expand women’s health care, support women-owned businesses, advance STEM opportunities, supporting solutions to increase access to child care, and champion a National Women’s History Museum. We’re working across the aisle to empower current and future generations of women and girls.”-Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis.

     

    “Every day I hear from Oregonians that want lower costs, better jobs, and a fair chance at the American Dream. I remain firmly committed to working across the aisle as Vice-Chair of the Bipartisan Women’s Caucus to deliver real results to improve Americans’ quality of life.”-Congresswoman Janelle Bynum

     

    “In keeping with their 48-year history, the Bipartisan Women’s Caucus’ legislative priorities for the 119th Congress demonstrate their continued commitment to work across the aisle to ensure women and their families are economically secure, healthy and safe. WCPI will continue to work alongside the Caucus to hold regular briefings and engage in thoughtful bipartisan discussions and learning opportunities for Members and congressional staff.”-President of the Women’s Congressional Policy Institute (WCPI) Jennifer Lockwood-Shabat

     

    Background:

    The Congressional Caucus for Women’s Issues was founded in 1977 and later renamed to the Bipartisan Women’s Caucus (BWC). When it was founded, the Caucus included 15 of the 18 women servingin the House of Representatives. Today, nearly one-third of the House are women members. With its founding, the Caucus offered a space for women members to speak in public and with each other about women’s policy issues with the goal of developing, initiating, and promoting bipartisan legislation and public policies for women.

     

    Some of the early accomplishments of the Bipartisan Women’s Caucus included:

    • The Pregnancy Discrimination Act (1978)

    • The Retirement Equity Act (1984)

    • The Women’s Business Ownership Act (1988)

    • The Breast and Cervical Cancer Mortality Prevention Act (1990)

    • The Family and Medical Leave Act (1993)

    • The Violence Against Women Act (1994)

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: High School Teams from Across North Carolina Amaze in Ready, Set, App! Competition

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: High School Teams from Across North Carolina Amaze in Ready, Set, App! Competition

    High School Teams from Across North Carolina Amaze in Ready, Set, App! Competition
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today Governor Josh Stein announced the three winning North Carolina high school teams of the sixth annual Ready, Set, App! competition. Nine student teams from across the state attended the final event to pitch their original mobile apps to a panel of business and tech-industry professionals along with a live audience of family members, teachers, and peers.

    “I am proud to recognize these competitors for their technical acumen and hard work to develop apps that will make a difference for their friends, family, and neighbors,” said Governor Josh Stein. “We must expand opportunity so that students can apply what they learn in the classroom to solve real problems. I look forward to seeing all that these students achieve in the future.”

    The following teams were selected as the winners for this year’s competition:

    • First place was ASLephant from Mallard Creek High School in Mecklenburg County, who created an app to teach users about the foundations of American Sign Language (ASL) through a gamified leveling system, which features unique quizzes and flashcards. Team members include Elizabeth Bui, Linh Thai, and Laylah Pegues. Watch ASLephant’s presentation here.
    • Second place went to Color Catch from the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics – Morganton in Burke County. Their app empowers individuals with color blindness by enabling them to easily identify the colors of everyday objects, enhancing their independence. Team members include Rohin Patel, Avika Gera, Peter Tenholder, Sai Yadavalli, and Ishaan Joshy. Watch Color Catch’s presentation here.
    • Third place was ApneaAid from Enloe High School in Wake County, who created an AI-powered app that detects sleep apnea risk using your phone’s microphone and provides unique recommendations and trends to improve sleep quality. Team members include Madhav Annachi, Sehajpreet Bajwa, Aarush Jain, Ahan Jaiswal, Abhinay Ruddarraju. Watch ApneaAid’s presentation here. 

    The Ready, Set, App competition is hosted by the North Carolina Business Committee for Education (NCBCE), a business-led, education non-profit within the Governor’s Office, and sponsored by Lenovo. The contest challenges student teams to design and develop an original android mobile application to solve a problem in their school or community. 

    This year, Ready, Set, App! teams are comprised of three to five students along with an advisor. The competition set participation records this year, engaging 425 students with 107 teams from across 30 counties. From the registered teams, 51 submitted completed projects, including a full app demonstration accompanied by a compelling video pitch. Projects were then judged by Lenovo professionals, educators, business leaders, and government officials to determine the nine finalists. Teams then pitched their apps on stage at the Lenovo headquarters in Morrisville for the chance to win brand new Lenovo tech. 

    “We are incredibly proud to recognize the outstanding talent and innovation showcased by all the participants in this year’s Ready, Set, App! competition,” said Libby Richards, community engagement manager at Lenovo. “These high school students have demonstrated not only technical skill, but also a forward-thinking problem solving using technology. We congratulate the winners on their impressive achievements and applaud every student who took part in this inspiring competition.”

    This year’s team was led by Kishan Rajeev Jagadeesh from Apex Friendship High and Wisdom Walker from Harper Middle College. New additions this year include Evan Kim from Weddington High School, Mariya Tinch from Nash-Rocky Mount Early College, Nachammai Annamalai from South Iredell High School, and Swayam Shah from Enloe Magnet High School.

    Ready, Set, App! is open to all North Carolina high school students and will be held again next school year with a kickoff planned for fall 2025. Intern applications will open in September and team registration will open shortly after. 

    Click here or more information about the Ready, Set, App! Competition. 

    May 30, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Meriwest Credit Union Shines in Silicon Valley Business Journal’s Table of Experts

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SILICON VALLEY, Calif., May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Meriwest Credit Union, a leading financial institution serving the Greater San Francisco Bay Area and Pima County, Arizona, was recently featured in the Silicon Valley Business Journal’s Table of Experts discussion. The conversation, moderated by Tom Zahiralis, SVBJ Market President and Publisher, highlighted Meriwest’s “People Helping People” philosophy and its ability to innovate while maintaining a lean, community-focused organization.

    Meriwest’s leadership team, including President and CEO Lisa Pesta, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Chad Maze, Vice President and Chief Treasury Officer Jihong Huang, Vice President of Business Services Charles Giuliano, and Vice President of Digital Strategy and Engagement Gene Fichtenholz, shared insights on fostering a strong workplace culture, supporting small businesses, and addressing economic challenges. Their diverse backgrounds and expertise underscored Meriwest’s commitment to personalized financial services and community empowerment.

    Key Highlights from the Discussion:

    • Award-Winning Workplace Culture: Lisa Pesta emphasized Meriwest’s six consecutive years as a “Best Place to Work” by the Silicon Valley Business Journal, driven by transparent communication, employee recognition programs like “Night of the Stars,” and a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). “We prioritize clear communication and an inclusive environment to drive innovation,” Pesta noted.
    • Small Business Support: Charles Giuliano highlighted Meriwest’s tailored products, such as SBA loans and an AI-assisted micro-loan platform, which support Silicon Valley’s vibrant small business community. A notable success story involved Meriwest stepping in to provide a critical SBA 504 loan for a local food manufacturer when another bank withdrew support.
    • Digital Innovation and AI: Gene Fichtenholz discussed Meriwest’s seven-year journey integrating AI to enhance efficiency without compromising jobs. “AI helps our team summarize information and build tools tailored for credit unions,” he said, citing predictive analytics for personalized member experiences.
    • Economic Resilience: Jihong Huang outlined Meriwest’s preparedness for potential recessions, with a strong capital ratio, stress-tested balance sheet, and diversified loan portfolio. Chad Maze added that products like the MyLine line of credit eliminate overdraft fees, offering members affordable solutions during financial strain.
    • Community Impact: Meriwest’s commitment to closing the wealth gap was a focal point, with Lisa Pesta and Chad Maze detailing financial literacy workshops reaching over 8,600 residents in 2024 and the newly formed Meriwest Community Foundation. These initiatives empower first-time homebuyers, small businesses, and underserved communities.

    “At Meriwest, our mission is centered on empowering individuals to realize their financial aspirations,” said Lisa Pesta, President and CEO. “Our involvement in the Table of Experts discussion underscores our commitment to innovation, community engagement, and cultivating an inclusive environment for both our members and employees.”

    About Meriwest Credit Union

    Founded in San Jose, California in 1961, Meriwest Credit Union, ($2.1B in assets) is one of Silicon Valley’s most established financial institutions. Dedicated to delivering advice-based, personal, convenient, and innovative financial services to over 80,000 families and businesses throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and Pima County, Arizona, Meriwest offers a wide array of personal banking, business services, and wealth advisory services. Meriwest has been voted one of the ‘Best Credit Unions in Silicon Valley’ in the Mercury News’ Annual ‘Readers’ Choice Awards’ and a “Best Place to Work” by the Silicon Valley Business Journal 2020 through 2025. More information can be found at www.meriwest.com.

    Media Contact:
    Jeffrey Zane
    Meriwest Credit Union
    Public Relations
    408-612-1484
    jzane@meriwest.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/545f10b1-cdc5-4390-8451-bfccc4dd7619

    The MIL Network –

  • First round of India-Chile CEPA negotiations concludes in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The first round of negotiations for the India-Chile Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) concluded successfully in New Delhi, marking a major step towards enhancing bilateral economic cooperation. The negotiations began on May 26, following the signing of the Terms of Reference on May 8. 

    The opening ceremony was inaugurated by India’s Commerce Secretary, Sunil Barthwal, in the presence of the Ambassador of Chile to India, H.E. Juan Angulo.

    During the inauguration, Barthwal emphasized that the CEPA would pave the way for a deeper economic partnership between India and Chile and contribute to the creation of strengthened global value chains. 

    The initiative follows the momentum generated during the State Visit of the President of Chile, H.E. Gabriel Boric Font, to India in April 2025, where both countries welcomed the launch of CEPA negotiations. President Boric described India as a priority partner for Chile and stressed the importance of developing strategies for enhanced and diversified trade.

    Both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Boric expressed support for an agreement that is balanced, ambitious, comprehensive, and mutually beneficial, with the goal of achieving deeper economic integration between the two countries. 

    Over the course of the round, discussions were held across various thematic areas covering trade, services, investment, economic cooperation, and strategic sectors. The CEPA is envisioned to unlock the full potential of India-Chile trade and commercial ties, leading to increased employment, stronger bilateral trade, and sustained economic growth.

    The two sides have agreed to continue engagement through intersessional virtual discussions to address outstanding matters ahead of the next round of negotiations, which is expected to take place in July or August 2025. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to a constructive and consultative negotiation process that involves industry feedback and stakeholder participation, aiming to deliver a meaningful and impactful agreement.

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mediation convention signed

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    A signing ceremony for the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) was held today as it was revealed that Hong Kong has been chosen as the IOMed’s home.

     

    The IOMed will be the world’s first intergovernmental international legal organisation dedicated to mediation.

     

    CPC Central Committee Political Bureau Member and Foreign Affairs Minister Wang Yi signed the convention on behalf of China. Representatives from 32 other countries also signed it.

     

    Addressing the ceremony, Mr Wang said that as an innovative step in international rule of law, the IOMed has great significance in the history of international relations.

     

    He stressed that its establishment is an actualisation of the principles of the United Nations (UN) Charter and an example of a civilisational belief in harmony, while epitomising inclusiveness in the rule of law.

     

    Outlining that the IOMed will be headquartered in Hong Kong, Mr Wang said the city’s handover is in itself a success story that exemplifies peaceful settlement of international disputes. The success of the “one country, two systems” principle has created brighter prospects for prosperity and stability in Hong Kong, he added.

     

    Mr Wang said he looks forward to all parties working together to ensure the IOMed plays a positive role in peacefully resolving international disputes to create a brighter future for humanity.

     

    Chief Executive John Lee, as well as senior representatives from more than 50 countries, and from the United Nations and other international organisations, attended the ceremony.

     

    Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki, Financial Secretary Paul Chan, and Secretary for Justice Paul Lam were also present.

     

    Mr Lee expressed his gratitude to the central government for allowing Hong Kong the honour of housing the organisation’s headquarters, adding that Hong Kong has a well-respected legal system and world-class legal and dispute resolution professionals.

     

    “The IOMed will provide a pathway for countries – regardless of culture, language and legal system – to resolve international disputes based on mutual respect and understanding. This is increasingly important amid mounting geopolitical tensions.”

     

    This afternoon’s Global Forum on International Mediation involved discussions of topics including mediation of disputes among countries and mediation of international investment and commercial disputes.

     

    Guest speakers emphasised that Hong Kong has unique features that allow it to build bridges between different legal traditions.

     

    United Nations Commission on International Trade Law Secretary Anna Joubin-Bret said: “It combines the background and the expertise in both civil and common law, and it is the only jurisdiction that has these two features, and that is exactly what mediation needs.”

     

    Former President of Slovenia Danilo Türk remarked that Hong Kong is a place of innovations in multiple ways, including technology, trade, and now also diplomacy.

     

    “I think that that is a really very good choice. Hong Kong is already established as one of the global centres of communication, of everything, of every form of communication. And to add this dimension would enrich Hong Kong and would enrich also the processes of mediation.”

     

    Executive Director of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Institute for Peace & Reconciliation I Gusti Agung Wesaka Puja, said he expected the IOMed to collaborate with other regional organisations, including ASEAN, in finding solutions to conflict situations within the region.

     

    “I think Hong Kong and China have a lot of experience on the trade issues, on economic issues, and of course we expect that IOMed will also deal with the political and security issues in the future.”

     

    Meanwhile, Asian Academy of International Law Founder Member and Co-Chairman Teresa Cheng said she believes housing the headquarters in Hong Kong will raise the city’s international profile by allowing it to play a leading role in mediation efforts.

     

    “For example, capacity building, running conferences, bringing experts in to discuss certain issues. And all these will attract foreigners coming to Hong Kong and thereby knowing Hong Kong and learning themselves how good Hong Kong is, and therefore be able to bring that view back to their hometown.”

     

    Witnessed by forum guests, Mr Lam signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Minister of Commerce of Cambodia Cham Nimul, to strengthen co-operation between the two places on issues relating to dispute avoidance and resolution.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Fortune Names Rate a ‘Best Mortgage Lender’ of 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rate, a leading fintech company, has been named a ‘Best Mortgage Lender’ for May 2025 by Fortune, a distinction that highlights the company’s customer-first approach, industry-leading technology, and commitment to making homeownership accessible for more Americans.

    Fortune gave Rate the Best Overall spot for its smooth online mortgage experience, citing its innovative digital tools and impressive array of loan options. With same-day approvals and closings in as little as 10 days, Fortune positions Rate as a strong choice for borrowers seeking an expedited mortgage process.

    Other leading industry voices are taking notice as well. Forbes recently named Rate the Best Mortgage Lender of 2025 for First-Time Homebuyers, and NerdWallet awarded Rate Best Lender rankings across multiple categories, including FHA Loans, Home Equity Loans, Lower Credit Scores, and more. Motley Fool further recognized Rate as a Best Mortgage Lender of 2025, highlighting the platform’s digital experience and down payment assistance.

    Taken together, these accolades underscore Rate’s ability to meet the needs of both first-time homebuyers and seasoned homeowners looking to refinance their present mortgage and/or leverage their equity. With a broad loan portfolio, the nation’s top Loan Officers, and unrivaled technology, Rate offers tailored solutions for virtually any borrower, with more ways to say “yes” built into every part of the process.

    A standout example is the Rate App, which simplifies financial management by offering mortgage approvals in a day, personal loan applications in five minutes, insurance savings, 24/7 communication with your Loan Officer, and more—all designed to help users achieve their financial goals.

    This wave of industry recognition is mirrored by the growing interest in Rate from top-performing Loan Officers across the country, many of whom are choosing to join the Rate team. It’s a clear sign that Rate has become both a magnet for industry talent and a trusted partner for consumers navigating today’s housing market.

    “This broad recognition is a result of the work our team puts in every day to make homeownership more cost-effective, simpler, faster, and more attainable,” said Victor Ciardelli, Founder and CEO of Rate. “We’re proud to be building a platform where trust and technology go hand in hand—and grateful to our customers for choosing us.”

    The accolades add to a growing list of milestones for Rate, including:

    “For Loan Officers, Rate has become the place where they can truly do their best work,” said Shant Banosian, President of Rate. “We’ve built a platform that differentiates LOs from a speed, price, and service perspective so they can grow their business and deliver a superior customer experience.”

    These accolades cement Rate’s leadership as a modern, all-in-one homebuying solution trusted by both new buyers and seasoned homeowners.

    About Rate

    Rate Companies is a leader in mortgage lending and digital financial services. Headquartered in Chicago, Rate has over 850 branches across all 50 states and Washington D.C. Since its launch in 2000, Rate has helped more than 2 million homeowners with home purchase loans and refinances. The company has cemented itself as an industry leader by introducing innovative technology, offering low rates, and delivering unparalleled customer service. Honors and awards include: Top 5 Mortgage Lender by Inside Mortgage Finance for 2024; Best Mortgage Lender for First-Time Homebuyers by NerdWallet for 2023; HousingWire’s Tech100 award for the company’s industry-leading FlashClose℠ digital mortgage platform in 2020, MyAccount in 2022, and Language Access Program in 2023; the most Scotsman Guide Top Originators for 11 consecutive years; Chicago Agent Magazine’s Lender of the Year for seven consecutive years; and Chicago Tribune’s Top Workplaces list for seven straight years. Visit rate.com for more information.

    Media Contact:
    press@rate.com

    1 – Rate Intelligence refers to automated documentation verification. Underwriting experts provide final mortgage approvals.

    2 – All negotiations and Mortgage Loan Transaction Documents will be conducted and provided in English. We suggest that you work with an interpreter of your choice. You can find more information about the loan process in Spanish at: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/es/herramientas-del-consumidor/hipotecas/

    Operating as Guaranteed Rate, Inc. in New York.

    Guaranteed Rate, Inc. D/B/A Rate; NMLS #2611 For licensing information visit nmlsconsumeraccess.org.

    Subject to Approval. Conditions may apply.

    Guaranteed Rate, Inc. D/B/A Rate; NMLS #2611; Rate.com; 3940 N Ravenswood, Chicago, IL 60613; 866-934-7283. For licensing information visit nmlsconsumeraccess.org. Equal Housing Lender. Conditions may apply. • AZ: 14811 N. Kierland Blvd., Ste. 100, Scottsdale, AZ, 85254, Mortgage Banker License #0907078 • CA: Licensed by the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act • CO: Regulated by the Division of Real Estate • GA: Residential Mortgage Licensee #20973 • MA: Mortgage Lender & Mortgage Broker License #MC2611 • ME: Supervised Lender License #SLM11302 • NH: Licensed by the New Hampshire Banking Department, Lic #13931-MB • NJ: Licensed by the N.J. Department of Banking and Insurance • NY: Licensed Mortgage Banker – NYS Department of Financial Services, 750 Lexington Ave. Suite 2010, New York, New York 10022 • OH: MB 804160 • OR: Licensed and Regulated by the Department of Consumer and Business Services • PA: Licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities • RI: Rhode Island Licensed Lender • WA: Consumer Loan Company License CL-2611.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province strengthens response to combat downtown street crime, disorder

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Businesses in British Columbia will be better protected against property crimes with the launch of a new public-safety initiative focused on addressing street disorder and non-violent offences.

    The new Community Safety and Targeted Enforcement (C-STEP) program will boost police efforts tackling public-safety challenges that are affecting businesses and communities. Through C-STEP, police can strengthen operations that address street crimes, such as robbery, shoplifting, theft and property damage, and the associated impacts on public safety, community well-being and the growth of B.C.’s economy.

    “Businesses that have been the victims of theft rings and shoplifting are understandably frustrated by the losses they have suffered,” said Terry Yung, Minister of State for Community Safety and Integrated Services. “Building on the proven success of other public-safety initiatives, we are implementing C-STEP to further strengthen these efforts that support safer downtown cores, so people can build a good life in a safe community.”

    The Province is allocating as much as $5 million in new funding for the initiative, which will provide police with enhanced tools, technology and investigative resources to curb property crimes.

    In addition to enforcement, C-STEP will also support police initiatives to develop co-ordinated operational plans that unite law enforcement, businesses, outreach teams and social services to deliver a strategic, preventive approach to tackling street disorder.

    “Our downtown communities are more than just economic hubs. They are the heartbeat of our cities, bringing people together to work, explore, create and connect with culture,” said Spencer Chandra Herbert, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “Our downtowns reflect the energy and diversity that makes our Province unique, and the new C-STEP program is laying the groundwork for safer, more dynamic downtowns, ensuring they remain vibrant spaces for everyone.”

    Funding provided through C-STEP can also support proactive patrols and increased police presence to improve physical and social conditions of public spaces by addressing disruptive or unlawful behaviours, such as open drug use or trafficking, disturbances, obstruction, indecent acts and/or public intoxication.

    Additionally, the initiative will enhance police capacity to effectively work alongside front-line social-service providers, ensuring individuals in crisis are connected to the appropriate and available services.

    “The B.C. Association of Chiefs of Police supports the C-STEP initiative and funding directed toward addressing street disorder across our province,” said Chief Supt. Wendy Mehat, president of the B.C. Associations of Chiefs of Police. “Police leaders continue to raise concerns about repeat offending and the impacts of chronic street-level crime on public safety and community well-being. We recognize that a co-ordinated, multi-agency response is essential, and we are committed to working alongside government and community partners to develop long-term, sustainable solutions. Our shared goal is safer, healthier communities for all British Columbians.”

    C-STEP builds on the existing Specialized Investigation and Targeted Enforcement (SITE) program, with the B.C. RCMP administering the funding to police on behalf of government. Together, these programs will help police agencies implement comprehensive public-safety strategies to tackle violent and non-violent crime, adapt to emerging policing needs and stay responsive to evolving crime trends.

    Quotes:

    Garry Begg, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General –

    “B.C. businesses are the backbone of our province, and it’s essential that they’re supported to deal with public-safety challenges such as theft, vandalism and shoplifting, which threaten their prosperity. C-STEP will prioritize high-incident hot spots, including major shopping corridors and areas where public-safety concerns exist, so law enforcement agencies have the resources they need to address crime and help to build safer, more vibrant downtowns for everyone.”

    Diana Gibson, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation –

    “Small businesses are the foundation of B.C.’s economy, and ensuring people and businesses can thrive in safe, welcoming downtown areas is a priority for our government. This new program is a great step forward in the Province’s ongoing commitment to building safer communities, while helping our local businesses to prosper.”

    Deputy Chief Const. Howard Chow, Vancouver Police Department –

    “Open drug use, street disorder and criminal activity has negatively impacted the health of our downtown core and surrounding neighbourhoods, making people feel less safe. Addressing these challenges requires support from all levels of government, and we welcome any new initiative that will help our officers prevent crime, arrest offenders and make Vancouver a safer city.”

    Jane Talbot, president and CEO, Downtown Vancouver Business Improvement Association –

    “This initiative reflects a clear recognition of the urgent public-safety challenges facing downtown cores, including the growing impact of non-violent and repeat offenders on small businesses. Any step forward is important, and we see this as a significant and encouraging move in the right direction. Downtown Van is committed to continued collaboration with the province and all partners to build a safer, more vibrant city for everyone.”

    Tony Hunt, general manager of loss prevention, London Drugs –

    “We welcome the C-STEP initiative as a meaningful step forward, supporting local projects that address prolific and repeat offenders. Across British Columbia, communities and businesses are facing rising levels of violence, organized retail crime and abuse targeting workers. This growing disorder is eroding safety and public confidence — especially in our downtowns, which are vital to our economy. It’s essential that we track its impact, and we look forward to seeing and celebrating the positive outcomes this program can deliver.”

    Quick Facts:

    • Budget 2025 invests $235 million in new funding over the next three years to help improve community safety through various public-safety and justice programs.
    • The SITE program introduced under the B.C. government’s Safer Communities Action Plan provides operational funding for police departments to enhance proactive enforcement and investigative techniques to target repeat violent offending.
    • The Vancouver Police Department reported that between October 2024 and January 2025, the SITE initiative led to a 27% drop in violent crime in Hastings Crossing and a 45% drop in weapon-related assaults in Gastown, with January 2025 recording the lowest violent- and property-crime rates in Hastings Crossing in over two years.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about government’s action to keep communities safe and strong, visit: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/safer-communities/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Alan Wilson announces SC victims of deceptive online training program will finally get repaid following pressure from AGsRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina

    (COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is finally providing long-delayed restitution to victims of a predatory tech sales program in South Carolina and other states after their attorneys general pressed the agency for answers in May.

    In a May 6 letter to the CFPB’s acting director, South Carolina and 11 other state attorneys general detailed how a 2023 court order against Prehired LLC for illegal, deceptive and abusive practices resulted in $4.2 million in restitution for some 660 consumers nationwide, yet unexplained delays kept those checks from being distributed by the CFPB.

    The CFPB announced the allocation in May 2024. For the remainder of 2024, states received regular updates regarding the federal government’s progress on distributing these funds to Prehired’s victims. But in February of this year, the CFPB stopped providing information about the process. That changed after the attorneys general publicly pressured the agency to act. Our office is still gathering information about how many individuals have received restitution so far.

    “I will not stand by when South Carolinians are victimized by deceptive sales tactics,” Attorney General Wilson said. “The wheels of justice turn slowly, but I’m thankful that our letter to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau helped South Carolina victims start getting the compensation they deserve.”

    For years, Prehired used deceptive marketing tactics to lure South Carolina residents into paying up to $30,000 for Prehired’s unlicensed online sales training program. Most students could not afford to pay, and Prehired offered them income-share loans, which it claimed were not loans.

    The company “guaranteed” students would land tech sales jobs paying $60,000 or more. Meanwhile, the company demanded monthly payments from students who were earning far less. When students failed to pay their massive debt from the program, Prehired pursued aggressive collection techniques such as filing lawsuits and initiating arbitration proceedings against students across the country.

    South Carolina joined other state attorneys general along with the CFPB in a consumer protection enforcement action against Prehired, resulting in the court order that Prehired return $4.2 million to those who made payments on the company’s loans.

    Joining South Carolina in the letter were the states of Colorado, Delaware, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Washington, and the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AG Labrador Secures Judgment Against Coast to Coast Carports, Inc.

    Source: US State of Idaho

    Home Newsroom AG Labrador Secures Judgment Against Coast to Coast Carports, Inc.

    BOISE — Attorney General Raúl Labrador announced a judgment entered in March 2025 against Coast to Coast Carports, Inc., following allegations of deceptive business practices involving custom-made garages  and carports.
    The Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division filed suit in December 2024, alleging that Coast to Coast accepted consumer payments for custom-made garages and carports, failed to deliver the products, and in some cases provided faulty structures without offering refunds or repairs. The judgment prohibits Coast to Coast from engaging in any construction-related business within the State of Idaho and requires the company to pay civil penalties and restitution to affected consumers. The civil penalties and restitution for Coast-to-Coast are, respectively, $22,500 and $26,745.37.
    “This case sends a clear message to out-of-state contractors who operate dishonestly in Idaho,” said Attorney General Labrador. “We will take legal action to protect Idaho consumers and ensure accountability in the construction marketplace.”
    Attorney General Labrador urges consumers seeking a contractor’s services, please utilize these tips to avoid fraudulent business practices: 

    Read the Contractor’s business profile on the Better Business Bureau’s Website, paying particular attention to any unresolved complaints, its rating, and the business’s responses provided to the Better Business Bureau. 
    Check with the Attorney General’s Office or the Department of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL) at Welcome to Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses for any information regarding the Contractor and its business practices within the State of Idaho. 
    Review Idaho Code § 48-525 to understand what information a contractor is required to disclose. 
    Verify the contractor has liability and worker’s compensation insurance to avoid liability for work-related injuries and the contractor’s recklessness or negligence.
    If possible, obtain a surety bond, title insurance, and a lien waiver to cover potential losses, loss of title, and to prevent lienholders placing liens on the project for nonpayment. 

    Consumers who experience similar construction practices may file consumer complaints with the Consumer Protection Division. A complaint form is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: PROACTIS SA – Press Release 30.05.2025 (AFR report publication)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release

    Postponement of publication of results and Annual Financial Report for the year ending January 31, 2025

    Paris, France – (30 May 2025) – PROACTIS SA (ISIN code: FR0004052561) announces the postponement of the publication, originally scheduled for May 30, 2025, of its results and Annual Financial Report for the year ended January 31, 2025.

    This postponement follows the delay in finalizing the audit by the statutory auditors of PROACTIS HOLDING LIMITED (parent company of PROACTIS SA) and the delay in agreeing certain matters with the auditors of PROACTIS SA, notably with regards to the impairment of goodwill and forming a conclusion on going concern. As such, PROACTIS SA has no choice but to postpone the publication of its results and Annual Financial Report for the year ending January 31, 2025.

    PROACTIS SA and PROACTIS HOLDING LIMITED have already taken the necessary steps to complete the audits as quickly as possible.

    PROACTIS SA will announce the next publication dates in a press release in the near future.

    * * * *

    About Proactis SA (https://www.proactis.com/proactis-sa), a Proactis Company

    Proactis SA connects companies by providing business spend management and collaborative business process automation solutions for both goods and services, through The Business Network. Our solutions integrate with any ERP or procurement system, providing our customers with an easy-to-use solution which drives adoption, compliance and savings.

    Proactis SA has operations in France, Germany, USA and Manila.

    Listed in Compartment C on the Euronext Paris Eurolist.

    ISIN: FR0004052561, Euronext: PROAC, Reuters: HBWO.LN, Bloomberg: HBW.FP

    Contacts
    Tel: +33 (0)1 53 25 55 00
    E-mail: investorContact@proactis.com

    * * * *

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Soaring rice prices are stirring political trouble in Japan – history shows this often leads to a change of government

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ming Gao, Research Scholar of East Asia Studies, Lund University

    Japan’s agriculture minister, Taku Etō, resigned on May 21 just six months into his term, following a public backlash to his joke that he never buys rice because supporters give it to him for free.

    Gaffes are by no means uncommon in Japanese politics. Controversial remarks by one former prime minister, Tarō Asō, were routinely followed by retractions – and the ruling Liberal Democratic party (LDP) even distributed a gaffe-prevention manual to its members in 2019.

    But amid a severe rice shortage, which has seen prices surge to 90% higher than they were a year ago, Etō’s quip was seen by the Japanese public as more than just an offhand comment.

    Rice has been a significant part of life in Japan for nearly 3,000 years. This deep connection is reflected in the Japanese word gohan, which means “cooked rice” but is often used simply to refer to a “meal”. Rice has also shaped the foundations of Japanese cuisine and farming culture.

    Such is the importance of rice to Japanese people that a spike in prices in 1918 led to a nationwide wave of protest. The so-called “rice riots” forced the then prime minister, Terauchi Masatake, to resign.

    However, despite its obvious importance, Japanese government policy in recent decades has been focused on tightly controlling and regulating the production of rice. It has endeavoured to keep prices high, partly to reward farmers who are an important support base for the LDP.

    This means consumers have paid a premium, contributing to a downward trend in rice consumption alongside other factors such as dietary diversification. By 2022, annual rice consumption in Japan had fallen to 51kg per person, less than half of what it was at its 1962 peak. In this context, the public reaction to Etō’s comment was understandable.

    Japan’s current prime minister, Shigeru Ishiba, initially seemed prepared to weather the storm, advising Etō to retract his “problematic” remarks and remain in his post. But with elections approaching in July and Ishiba’s approval rating sinking to a record low of 21%, his administration was left with little choice and Etō ultimately resigned.

    The rice crisis has emerged as one of the defining issues of the upcoming election, which will determine whether Ishiba’s ruling coalition can secure a majority in the upper house of parliament. Having already lost its majority in the lower house in October 2024, the government may be set for another crushing defeat at the polls.

    Japan’s rice crisis

    A few factors have combined over the past year to cause rice prices to increase unexpectedly. Japan’s hottest September in 125 years resulted in poor harvests, while government warnings that a major earthquake off the country’s Pacific coast could be imminent triggered panic buying. The agriculture ministry also says that a surge in inbound tourism contributed to a sudden rise in rice consumption.

    However, the rice crisis is not fundamentally the result of climate volatility or increased demand. It is the product of decades of self-defeating agricultural policy that has prioritised institutional interests over national food security.

    Rice production caps, which were introduced in 1971 to control supply and prices, have never been fully dismantled even as domestic consumption has changed and the farming population decreased. This artificial control of output has left the country ill-prepared for demand surges.

    Compounding these issues are entrenched protectionist measures designed to shield small-scale rice farmers through high tariffs and rigid distribution systems. These distortions have prioritised institutional stability and political patronage over food security reform, leaving Japan increasingly vulnerable in an era of climate disruption and supply chain instability.

    Having struggled with low wages for years, many sectors of Japan’s population are now grappling with inflation. The government has dug into its emergency rice reserves in an attempt to alleviate the problem, but the grain has been slow to reach supermarket shelves. And some farmers, increasingly frustrated by regulations limiting how much rice they can grow, have even organised demonstrations.

    Under current conditions, imported rice is becoming an unavoidable fallback. Japan is importing rice from South Korea for the first time in over 25 years, while Japanese tourists are reportedly filling their suitcases with Korean rice – despite deep-seated scepticism toward anything not domestically grown.

    Political change looming?

    With rice prices soaring and public discontent mounting, this beloved everyday grain is once again at the centre of Japanese politics – just as it was more than a century ago during the 1918 rice riots.

    Despite the complexities of modern economies, connected to global systems of market exchange, Japanese consumers understand that government policies have played an oversized role in creating the current crisis. It is largely policy that has kept their wages low and failed to rein in inflation.

    Consumers are also keenly aware that the LDP’s rice policy has worked to protect its critical agricultural support base, a situation strongly reflected in Etō’s joke.

    As the government scrambles to get its house in order and put more affordable rice back on the table, a deeper reflection of the past seems advisable. Historical precedents, such as the 1918 riots, suggest that strong public distrust of a government’s rice policy results in profound political change.

    Ming Gao receives funding from the Swedish Research Council. This research was produced with support from the Swedish Research Council grant “Moved Apart” (nr. 2022-01864). Ming Gao is a member of Lund University Profile Area: Human Rights.

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

    – ref. Soaring rice prices are stirring political trouble in Japan – history shows this often leads to a change of government – https://theconversation.com/soaring-rice-prices-are-stirring-political-trouble-in-japan-history-shows-this-often-leads-to-a-change-of-government-257490

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Signing Ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation and Global Forum on International Mediation successfully conclude today

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Signing Ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation and Global Forum on International Mediation successfully conclude today 
         Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Wang Yi, attended the Signing Ceremony of the Convention in Hong Kong. Mr Wang was the first to sign the Convention on behalf of China. Thirty-three countries, including China and countries from Asia, Africa, Latin America and Europe, jointly signed the Convention. In addition, more than 50 countries and nearly 20 international organisations, including the United Nations (UN), also sent senior representatives to witness the Signing Ceremony. The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee; the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki; the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan; and the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, were also present.
     
         Addressing the ceremony, Mr Wang said that as an innovative step in international rule of law, the IOMed has great significance in the history of international relations. The establishment of the IOMed is an actualisation of the purposes and principles of the UN Charter; it is also an example of a civilisational belief in harmony and an epitome of inclusiveness in the culture of the rule of law. The IOMed will be headquartered in Hong Kong, whose handover is itself a success story of peaceful settlement of international disputes. The success of the “one country, two systems” principle has created brighter prospects for prosperity and stability in Hong Kong. Mr Wang said that he looks forward to all parties working together to let the IOMed play a positive role in peacefully resolving international disputes for a brighter future for humanity.
        
         Addressing the ceremony, Mr Lee expressed his sincere gratitude to the Central Government for its staunch support of Hong Kong, allowing Hong Kong the honour of housing the IOMed headquarters. He also thanked the international community for placing their trust and confidence in the city. He said that Hong Kong is the only common law jurisdiction in China. With a robust, efficient and well-respected legal system, as well as world-class legal and dispute resolution services professionals, Hong Kong is also the most preferred seat of arbitration in the Asia-Pacific region. Hong Kong goes all out to build bridges with the world and will actively support and facilitate the IOMed’s valuable work in settling international disputes through mediation, thereby providing a pathway for countries to resolve international disputes based on mutual respect and understanding.
     
         The Global Forum on International Mediation in the afternoon discussed topics such as mediation of disputes among countries and mediation of international investment and commercial disputes. Twenty-three leaders from different countries and international organisations shared their experiences on how a neutral third party can effectively assist in the mediation of disputes between countries through dialogue and consultation, highlighting the importance of mediation to the peaceful development of the world and the practice of justice. The speakers also discussed new developments in international investment and commercial dispute mediation and the contributions that the IOMed can make.
     
         Witnessed by forum guests, Mr Lam signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Minister of Commerce of Cambodia, Mrs Cham Nimul, to strengthen co-operation between the two places on issues relating to dispute avoidance and resolution.
     
         The objective and goal of the IOMed is to promote and facilitate the peaceful settlement of international disputes and to develop friendly relations and co-operation between countries through mediation. It is an important mechanism for implementing Article 33 of the UN Charter to peacefully settle international disputes through mediation and other means. It is of great significance to achieving win-win co-operation among all parties to the dispute, improving global governance, and promoting world peace and stability in the international order. The IOMed will be the first international intergovernmental legal organisation devoted to the use of mediation in resolving international disputes. It will be a beneficial supplement to the current international dispute settlement mechanism and will provide a new legal public good in international rule of law, marking a milestone in promoting the settlement of international disputes through mediation.
     
         The Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation is the legal basis for the establishment of the IOMed, which covers important provisions such as the functions, governance structure, operation, scope of cases accepted, privileges and immunities of the IOMed. With the signing of the Convention, the IOMed will be formally established after signatories’ ratification of the Convention and be headquartered in Hong Kong. The IOMed headquarters is expected to be operational by the end of this year or early next year at the earliest, providing friendly, flexible, economical and efficient mediation services to all parties, thereby strengthening Hong Kong’s role as an international dispute resolution services centre and a capital for international mediation. Fully harnessing the institutional strengths under the “one country, two systems” principle and integrating into the national development strategy, Hong Kong will contribute to building a world of peace and justice. 
     
         The text of the Convention is available on the IOMed’s websiteIssued at HKT 23:19

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Exciting, but incredibly inspiring”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    Photo: Dmitry Novikov

    On May 28, the students of the university-wide elective course “GR in modern Russia: theory and practice” The projects were evaluated by three commissions consisting of professors. Department of Theory and Practice of Interaction between Business and Government HSE University. One of the commissions was headed by the head of the department, HSE President Alexander Shokhin.

    This academic year, the Department of Theory and Practice of Business and Government Interaction at the National Research University Higher School of Economics celebrated its 20th anniversary. For over 15 years, its key project has been a university-wide elective course. It is attended not only by HSE students, but also by representatives of other universities, government agencies, commercial organizations, etc.

    The department was one of the first at the university to use a project-based approach to teaching. “Students in our elective write their final theses not as classic coursework or diploma theses, but as projects, including group projects, aimed at solving specific problems. This is due to the fact that the faculty of the department are practicing politicians, officials and entrepreneurs,” notes Alexander Shokhin.

    The head of the department himself annually supervises the preparation of several projects. In the current academic year, one of them was devoted to youth entrepreneurship; a team of four people worked on it: two HSE Master’s students and two elective students who had already received a higher education.

    “Writing the paper under the guidance of Alexander Nikolaevich was exciting, but incredibly inspiring,” says Alena Velikanova, a first-year student in the master’s program.Media management” He was deeply immersed in the topic, guided us, helped to build a clear structure for the research and set the accents. And most importantly, he was sincerely interested not only in the successful defense of the work, but also in its further development. His recommendations went far beyond the scope of the academic assignment and concerned the prospects for the practical application of our developments.”

    Alena completed the elective for the second time, and became its listener for the first time in the third year of the bachelor’s program “Journalism” Then her work, carried out under the supervision of Professor Nikolai Tsekhomsky, was devoted to public-private partnership in infrastructure projects of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. Thanks to the elective, she deeply mastered economic issues, and this helped her in professional self-realization – she began to work in the Youth Council at the Representative Office of Kamchatka Krai.

    “I am an ambitious person, and the elective has become a serious challenge for me for the second year: I prove to myself that I can handle any topic,” admits Alena. “This is a great opportunity to prove myself, to master a new direction in an intensive format under the guidance of real leaders, to adopt their invaluable experience. In the future, I would like to do an internship at the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, and then work in my specialty – in the field of media management.”

    Another team of students, led by Professor Vladimir Salamatov, developed a project entitled “Development of the Northern Sea Route in the Context of Eastern Transport Infrastructure and Integration into International Transport Corridors.” It included Sergey Kharyushin, a second-year student in the bachelor’s program “State and municipal administration“, Alexey Proskurin, HSE graduate, head of the data analytics department of the Moscow Department of Information Technologies, and Elizaveta Metelyova, head of the operational analytics department of the Analytical Center under the Government of the Russian Federation.

    “The Northern Sea Route is a unique transport artery that connects Europe and Asia. After the introduction of sanctions, it became the most relevant, many problems associated with its use became more acute, and their solution required the combined efforts of various departments and shippers. The Northern Sea Route expands every year, attracts new participants, and last year it set a historical record for cargo turnover,” explains Elizaveta.

    “We have developed a number of recommendations – for example, we proposed creating the Main Directorate of the Northern Sea Route, an independent institution that will coordinate interdepartmental cooperation between Rosmorrechflot, Rosatom, the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media of Russia and other structures on this issue. For online navigation tracking, we proposed creating a digital twin with the involvement of the Agency for Strategic Initiatives. The problem of the shortage of icebreaker and Arctic cargo fleet was also highlighted in the work,” adds Alexey.

    During the defense, the commission highly appreciated the project, and Professor Kirill Androsov recommended that its materials be submitted to the government commission. According to the authors, the expertise of Vladimir Salamatov, who has been working at the Department of Theory and Practice of Interaction between Business and Government at the National Research University Higher School of Economics since 2015, helped to prepare it at a high level and adequately defend it. In different years, he was Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation, General Director of the International Trade Center, and created his own analytical center dealing with issues of international trade.

    “I came to this department because it is unique. People who have achieved great results, worked or work in very important positions and, of course, have invaluable experience work here. They all understand that only the state or only business will not be able to solve the issues of our country’s development, that their alliance is needed for this. Both in professorial lectures and in student projects, the topic of interaction between business and government is highlighted every time,” Vladimir Salamatov notes.

    According to his assessment, there is a noticeable differentiation among the elective course participants by educational tracks: not only economists and political scientists come here, but even engineers, graduates of the Higher School of Economics and other universities. By and large, anyone can participate in the selection for the elective course. “I am equally interested in working with first-year students and graduates who perceive the material, including through the prism of their experience,” the professor adds.

    He recommends that elective students “not stand still, constantly study, test themselves, and if you do this constantly, success will not be long in coming.”

    Among the professors of the department who supervised the projects of the students this year was Deputy Minister of Economic Development of the Russian Federation Tatyana Ilyushnikova. The topic of one of the projects was devoted to the mechanisms of partnership interaction between the state and large businesses, the state and small businesses, large and small businesses, and another to the landscape of entrepreneurial awards as platforms for interaction between government bodies and businesses and identifying public opinion leaders in the entrepreneurial environment.

    “GR is the art of building a dialogue between business and the state based on mutual trust and strategic vision. Our elective course at HSE is a unique platform where future economists, managers and analysts learn to understand real decision-making mechanisms by working with relevant cases from practice. In the modern economy, where the regulatory environment is rapidly changing, such competencies are becoming critically important. Come and we will analyze real cases and explore the field of interaction between business and government in our joint project work,” said Tatyana Ilyushnikova.

    “In this elective, you will be able to receive exclusive information from outstanding experts – ministers, deputy ministers, State Duma deputies, famous entrepreneurs, and it will certainly be useful when studying in virtually any educational program. Personally, I learned a lot not only from the professors, but also from my senior comrades with whom I worked on the project,” says HSE student Sergey Kharyushin.

    At the end of this academic year, 45 students of the university-wide elective course “GR in Modern Russia: Theory and Practice” defended 27 projects, including 12 group projects. The range of scores was quite large. The maximum score, which only some managed to get, was 9 out of 10. It gives the right to apply for publication in the electronic journal “Business. Society. Power”, 8-point works can also be considered.

    After the defense, Alexander Shokhin thanked the audience for their involvement in the elective. Each was given a copy of the magazine “Business and Power in Russia”, published for the 20th anniversary of the department, with autographs of its professors.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Secures $600,000 from Fitness Company Equinox for its Hard-to-Cancel Memberships

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced a settlement with Equinox Group, LLC (Equinox Group), which offers fitness services under Equinox, Equinox+, and SoulCycle, for making it hard for New Yorkers to cancel their membership. The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) found that Equinox Group failed to clearly disclose its subscription terms, provide consumers with the subscription acknowledgment required by New York law, and offer cost-effective and easy-to-use online cancellation mechanisms. As a result of today’s settlement, Equinox Group must pay $600,000 in penalties, change its subscription practices, and offer refunds to subscribers who tried to cancel their membership but could not.

    “New Yorkers should be able to cancel a membership they no longer use or want without breaking a sweat,” said Attorney General James. “The Equinox Group made it challenging for customers to end their membership, costing them time and money. As a result of my office’s settlement, New Yorkers can now cancel their membership with Equinox, SoulCycle, or any of Equinox Group’s brands much faster.”

    New York law requires subscription terms to be clearly disclosed to customers, including the minimum term, the fact that the subscription renews, and the cancellation policy. Businesses must also obtain affirmative consent for automatic renewals, provide a post-purchase acknowledgment, and offer a cost effective, timely, and easy-to-use cancellation mechanism.

    The OAG found that Equinox’s subscription terms were not clear and appeared in fine print disclosures or within a hard-to-understand terms and conditions document. Equinox also did not obtain informed affirmative consent from subscribers and did not provide them with a post-purchase acknowledgment. In addition, Equinox’s cancellation process was complex, difficult, and time-consuming. 

    This settlement requires Equinox Group to pay $600,000 in penalties and provide refunds of up to $250 to New York subscribers who filed complaints with the Equinox Group, Federal Trade Commission, Better Business Bureau, or the Office of the Attorney General of the State of New York. 

    New York subscribers to Equinox gyms, SoulCycle, and Equinox+ online fitness classes are also eligible for up to $100 in restitution. New York Equinox Group customers who first became subscribers or attempted to cancel their subscription between February 9, 2021 and May 19, 2025 must email Equinox Group by July 19, 2025. SoulCycle subscribers should email NewYorkAGclaims@soul-cycle.com . Equinox Gym and Equinox+ subscribers should email NewYorkAGclaims@equinox.com.  Subscriber restitution requests must include their name, and the phone number or email address associated with their account. 

    In addition to paying penalties and restitution, Equinox Group must improve its disclosures, obtain informed affirmative consent from subscribers, and provide customers with an acknowledgment including cancellation information. The settlement also requires Equinox Group to clearly and conspicuously disclose cancellation information in the subscription agreement and on an easily accessible website page for each brand.

    This settlement is the latest in Attorney General James’ efforts to help customers with hard-to-cancel subscriptions. In December 2023, Attorney General James sued SiriusXM for trapping customers into unwanted subscriptions and in November 2024, a court found that SiriusXM violated the law by forcing customers to undergo a long and burdensome process to cancel their subscriptions.

    This matter was handled by Assistant Attorney General Gena Feist and Laura Mumm, and former Assistant Attorney General Hanna Baek, under the supervision of Deputy Bureau Chief Clark Russell and Bureau Chief Kim Berger of the Bureau of Internet and Technology. The Bureau of Internet and Technology is a part of the Division for Economic Justice, which is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Chris D’Angelo and overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Press Release: FDIC Issues Enforcement Orders for April 2025

    Source: US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation FDIC

    CategoriesBusiness, Commerce, MIL-OSI, United States Federal Government, United States Government, United States of America, US Commerce, US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation FDIC, US Federal Government, US Insurance Sector, USA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Local businesses invited to join borough-wide ‘Shop ABC’ Gift Card Scheme

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council are asking local businesses to sign up to its exciting new gift card initiative, designed to encourage people to shop local, gift local, and spend local.

    Set to go live this summer, the ‘Shop ABC’ Gift Card will be valid across the ABC borough. Businesses of all types and sizes — from retailers and restaurants to salons, hotels, and visitor attractions — are invited to join the scheme for free.

    The card operates via the Mastercard network, meaning no additional equipment is required for businesses already accepting Mastercard payments.

    The ‘Shop ABC’ Gift Card offers a convenient and flexible way for consumers to gift and spend money within the borough. Whether it’s for birthdays, Christmas, thank-you gifts, or corporate rewards, the card will provide a powerful new way to promote local economic activity.

    With a summer launch fast approaching, the Council is urging businesses to register early to ensure they’re part of the scheme from day one.

    Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Councillor Kyle Savage said: “The introduction of the Shop ABC Gift Card marks a significant step in strengthening support for businesses across the borough. We all understand the vital importance of shopping local—and this card makes it easier than ever to do just that. By keeping spending within our city, town centres, and villages, we’re not only backing local businesses but also investing in the long-term vitality and resilience of our communities.”

    Chair of the ABC Business Partnership Alliance, Adrian Farrell, said: “The Shop ABC Gift Card is a powerful new way to support our local economy by making it easier than ever to shop local. Available in both physical and digital formats, it’s designed to appeal to all age groups and spending habits. This initiative gives smaller businesses access to a gift card program that aims to drive footfall and boost sales. With no additional cost to join or accept the card, it’s a win-win for businesses and consumers alike. By working together across the borough, we’re creating a compelling, modern tool that keeps money circulating locally and helps our town centres thrive.”

    Colin Munro, Managing Director of Miconex, said: “The first thing people will do when they receive a Shop ABC Gift Card is check where it can be spent. Being a part of the initiative will drive awareness of your businesses, and is a proven means of driving new customers and new revenue. Signing up to accept the card takes moments and ensures you’re not turning away businesses when the card launches in the summer.” 

    To sign up or find out more about the Shop ABC Gift Card, businesses can email:

    *protected email*

     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: WSI Web Enhancers’ Jukka Jumisko Earns AI Consultant Certification from Leading Digital Marketing Network

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Albuquerque, New Mexico, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Jukka Jumisko, founder of WSI Web Enhancers and a recognized leader in digital marketing in New Mexico, has earned his certification as an AI Consultant through WSI, the world’s largest network of digital marketing consultants. This achievement supports Jumisko’s mission to help local businesses integrate AI into their business with strategy and measurable impact.

    WSI Helping Business Navigate Artificial Intelligence.

    Over the last 18 months, Jumisko has emerged as a passionate educator and advocate for AI’s practical applications in business, speaking at conferences and on podcasts about how AI can empower companies to operate smarter, not harder.

    “AI isn’t here to replace us – it’s here to amplify our strengths. With WSI’s AI Adoption Roadmap, we now have a structured, accessible framework that takes the guesswork out of AI. It makes innovation feel achievable.”

    – Jukka Jumisko

    WSI’s certification equips consultants like Jumisko with a proven framework to help clients implement AI effectively. The methodology emphasizes:

    • Clarity and Simplicity – Clear steps from curiosity to execution.
      Personalized Strategies – Tailored to each business’s goals and values.
      Practical Innovation – Focused on real outcomes, not hype.

    A Local Leader in Marketing with Global Reach

    Originally from Finland, Jumisko rebuilt his life in New Mexico after personal and financial challenges. He launched WSI Web Enhancers in Albuquerque, which soon became the fastest-growing WSI franchise worldwide.

    His journey didn’t stop at success – it extended into service. He has since led hands-on training workshops for small businesses, teaching entrepreneurs how to build their websites and optimize for SEO. One such student, a 60-year-old Reiki healer with only $600 to invest, followed Jumisko’s teachings and quickly rose to rank #1 on Google for her niche in Albuquerque.

    “I believe in building both businesses and communities. Helping a global tech company build a satellite temperature app one month, then empowering a local healer to thrive online the next – that’s the kind of range and purpose I strive for.”

    – Jukka Jumisko

    The Future of AI-Driven Marketing in New Mexico

    With this new certification, Jumisko is expanding WSI Web Enhancers’ services to include AI-powered audits, automation strategy sessions, and custom implementation plans. His global team and local expertise enable him to deliver enterprise-level results while maintaining a human-centered approach.

    “I’ve chosen a life that blends freedom, impact, and innovation. AI doesn’t have to be overwhelming – it just has to be intentional. And I’m here to help companies bridge that gap.” 

    – Jukka Jumisko

    About WSI Web Enhancers
    WSI Web Enhancers is the world’s largest full-service digital marketing agency based in Albuquerque, NM, and part of the global WSI network, which operates in over 80 countries and has a 25+ year history of helping businesses succeed online. WSI specializes in SEO, website development, paid advertising, and AI-driven digital strategies for growth-focused businesses.

    To learn more about our services, visit our website or contact us directly today!.

    Media Contact:
    Jukka Jumisko
    Certified AI Consultant
    WSI Web Enhancers
    Email: jjumisko@wsiwebenhancers.com
    Website: wsiwebenhancers.com

    Jukka Jumisko Earns AI Business Consultant Certification.

    A video associated with this press release is available https://youtube.com/embed/Xc8O6hTfEN0

    The MIL Network –

  • Global universities seek to lure US-bound students amid Trump crackdown

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Universities around the world are seeking to offer refuge for students impacted by U.S. President Donald Trump’s crackdown on academic institutions, targeting top talent and a slice of the billions of dollars in academic revenue in the United States.

    Osaka University, one of the top ranked in Japan, is offering tuition fee waivers, research grants and help with travel arrangements for students and researchers at U.S. institutions who want to transfer.

    Japan’s Kyoto University and Tokyo University are also considering similar schemes, while Hong Kong has instructed its universities to attract top talent from the United States. China’s Xi’an Jiaotong University has appealed for students at Harvard, singled out in Trump’s crackdown, promising “streamlined” admissions and “comprehensive” support.

    Trump’s administration has enacted massive funding cuts for academic research, curbed visas for foreign students – especially those from China – and plans to hike taxes on elite schools.

    Trump alleges top U.S. universities are cradles of anti-American movements. In a dramatic escalation, his administration last week revoked Harvard’s ability to enrol foreign students, a move later blocked by a federal judge.

    Masaru Ishii, dean of the graduate school of medicine at Osaka University, described the impact on U.S. universities as “a loss for all of humanity”.

    Japan aims to ramp up its number of foreign students to 400,000 over the next decade, from around 337,000 currently.

    Jessica Turner, CEO of Quacquarelli Symonds, a London-based analytics firm that ranks universities globally, said other leading universities around the world were trying to attract students unsure of going to the United States.

    Germany, France and Ireland are emerging as particularly attractive alternatives in Europe, she said, while in the Asia-Pacific, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan, and mainland China are rising in profile.

    SWITCHING SCHOOLS

    Chinese students have been particularly targeted in Trump’s crackdown, with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday pledging to “aggressively” crack down on their visas.

    More than 275,000 Chinese students are enrolled in hundreds of U.S. colleges, providing a major source of revenue for the schools and a crucial pipeline of talent for U.S. technology companies.

    International students – 54% of them from India and China – contributed more than $50 billion to the U.S. economy in 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce.

    Trump’s crackdown comes at a critical period in the international student application process, as many young people prepare to travel to the U.S. in August to find accommodation and settle in before term starts.

    Dai, 25, a Chinese student based in Chengdu, had planned to head to the U.S. to complete her master’s but is now seriously considering taking up an offer in Britain instead.

    “The various policies (by the U.S. government) were a slap in my face,” she said, requesting to be identified only by her surname for privacy reasons. “I’m thinking about my mental health and it’s possible that I indeed change schools.”

    Students from Britain and the European Union are also now more hesitant to apply to U.S. universities, said Tom Moon, deputy head of consultancy at Oxbridge Applications, which helps students in their university applications.

    He said many international students currently enrolled at U.S. universities were now contacting the consultancy to discuss transfer options to Canada, the UK and Europe.

    According to a survey the consultancy ran earlier this week, 54% of its clients said they were now “less likely” to enrol at an American university than they were at the start of the year.

    There has been an uptick in applications to British universities from prospective students in the U.S., said Universities UK, an organisation that promotes British institutions. It cautioned, however, that it was too early to say whether that translates into more students enrolling.

    REPUTATIONAL EFFECTS

    Ella Ricketts, an 18-year-old first year student at Harvard from Canada, said she receives a generous aid package paid for by the school’s donors and is concerned that she won’t be able to afford other options if forced to transfer.

    “Around the time I was applying to schools, the only university across the Atlantic I considered was Oxford… However, I realised that I would not be able to afford the international tuition and there was no sufficient scholarship or financial aid available,” she said.

    If Harvard’s ability to enrol foreign students is revoked, she would most likely apply to the University of Toronto, she said.

    Analytics firm QS said overall visits to its ‘Study in America’ online guide have declined by 17.6% in the last year — with interest from India alone down over 50%.

    “Measurable impacts on enrolment typically emerge within six to 18 months. Reputational effects, however, often linger far longer, particularly where visa uncertainty and shifting work rights play into perceptions of risk versus return,” said QS’ Turner.

    That reputational risk, and the ensuing brain drain, could be even more damaging for U.S. institutions than the immediate economic hit from students leaving.

    “If America turns these brilliant and talented students away, they will find other places to work and study,” said Caleb Thompson, a 20-year-old U.S. student at Harvard, who lives with eight international scholars.

    -Reuters

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Credit by Scheduled Commercial Banks – March 2025 (Annual BSR-1)

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Today, the Reserve Bank released the web publication ‘Basic Statistical Return on Credit by Scheduled Commercial Banks (SCBs) in India – March 2025’1 on its ‘Database on Indian Economy’ (DBIE) portal2 (https://data.rbi.org.in Homepage > Publications). The publication provides information on various characteristics of bank credit in India, based on data submitted by SCBs {including Regional Rural Banks (RRBs)} under the annual ‘Basic Statistical Return (BSR) – 1’ system, which collects information on type of account, organisation, occupation/activity and category of the borrower, district and population3 group of the place of utilisation of credit, rate of interest, credit limit and amount outstanding.

    Highlights:

    • Bank credit growth (y-o-y) decelerated to 11.1 per cent in March 2025 from 15.3 (net of merger4) per cent in the previous financial year.

    • The deceleration in credit growth (y-o-y) was observed across all bank groups during FY 2024-25. Private sector banks witnessed the steepest decline to 9.5 per cent in March 2025 after a sustained credit growth above 15 per cent for the preceding three years.

    • With higher credit growth in rural, semi-urban and urban areas compared to metropolitan area, the share of metropolitan branches in total credit declined to 58.7 per cent in March 2025 from 63.5 per cent five years ago.

    • The growth in personal loans,5 though moderated sharply to 13.2 per cent, continued to outpace headline credit growth, which has led to an increase in their share to 31.0 per cent (24.1 per cent five years ago).
    • Share of housing loans bearing interest rate 9 per cent and above came down to 36.8 per cent in March 2025 from 54.5 per cent a year ago which signifies decline in cost of housing loans.
    • Consumer durables and other personal loans accounted for nearly one third of total personal loans; the share of these loans bearing interest rate 11 per cent and above has declined to 47.4 per cent in March 2025 from 50.3 per cent in the previous year. 
    • Loans to industry accounted for nearly one fourth of total bank credit and increased at a (y-o-y) rate of 9.4 per cent in March 2025, down from 10.4 per cent a year earlier.
    • The share of Individuals in total credit maintained its increasing momentum and stood at 47.8 per cent in March 2025 as compared to 41.5 per cent in March 2020. Within individuals, the share of female borrowers also gradually rose to 23.8 per cent from 22.0 per cent in the said period.

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/449

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada diversifies trade in the Indo-Pacific region through the Team Canada Trade Mission to Thailand and Cambodia

    Source: Government of Canada News

    May 30, 2025 – Phnom Penh, Cambodia – Global Affairs Canada

    Today, the Government of Canada concluded a successful Team Canada Trade Mission (TCTM) to Thailand and Cambodia. The delegation, led by Sara Wilshaw, Canada’s Chief Trade Commissioner and Senior Assistant Deputy Minister, International Trade, brought together more than 150 representatives from over 90 Canadian organizations, of which 80% are small and medium-sized enterprises, to explore the unique business opportunities that Thailand and Cambodia have to offer.

    As Canada works to build a stronger, more resilient economy, the Team Canada approach to trade missions is a proven tool that generates economic benefits for Canadians. As a key initiative under Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, this TCTM opened doors for Canadian businesses in a wide range of sectors to:

    • form new connections in 2 of Southeast Asia’s emerging markets
    • diversify their trade strategies
    • increase their resilience
    • develop products and services that benefit Canada

    During the TCTM’s business-to-business sessions, Ms. Wilshaw saw Canadian, Thai and Cambodian companies in action. She was impressed by the number of meaningful connections made between Canada and its trade partners through this trade mission.

    In Bangkok, Thailand, Ms. Wilshaw met with Dr. Nalinee Taveesin, President of Thailand Trade Representatives and Adviser to the Prime Minister of Thailand. She also spoke with members of the board of the Thai-Canadian Chamber of Commerce and senior executives of the Charoen Pokphand Group, the largest Thai investor in Canada. In doing so, she highlighted Canada’s work in expanding trade, investment and supply-chain resilience in the Indo-Pacific region. For example, she noted the opening of a 12th Export Development Canada representation in Bangkok, which helps Canadian companies diversify into the Indo-Pacific region, resulting in more and better business opportunities for Canadians. She also noted Canada’s 15 free trade agreements, spanning 51 countries, as the foundation of Canada’s trade-diversification efforts.

    In Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Ms. Wilshaw met with Sun Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and first vice-president of the Council for the Development of Cambodia, Sok Siphana, Senior Minister and Adviser to the Prime Minister; Cham Nimul, Minister of Commerce; and Dith Tina, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. She spoke about mutual trade and investment priorities, sector-specific opportunities and the progress being made on a free trade agreement between Canada and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. She also highlighted Canada’s commitment to deepening its engagement in Cambodia under Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy. She noted that Canada’s presence in Phnom Penh was upgraded to an embassy in March 2025 and that this TCTM was the largest-ever Canadian delegation to visit Cambodia.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: NANO Nuclear Files Six New Patent Applications Related to its Proprietary ZEUS™ Microreactor

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NANO continues work to expand its intellectual property portfolio

    New York, N.Y., May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”), a leading advanced nuclear energy and technology company, today announced that it has filed six new utility patent applications with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) related to its ZEUS™ microreactor.

    ZEUS™ is being designed as a solid‑core battery reactor with a fully sealed core that uses a highly conductive moderator matrix to dissipate fission heat. As designed, there is no fluid inside the core, which lowers the risk typically associated in‑core coolant accident scenarios.

    Figure 1 – Rendering of NANO Nuclear Energy’s ZEUS™ Advanced Portable Nuclear Microreactor

    The ZEUS™ design calls for all reactor and support systems to fit within a standard shipping container, creating the potential for exceptional transportability to sites lacking conventional energy infrastructure. The unit is also designed to deliver thermal energy directly for heat applications or convert it to electricity, making it adaptable for a wide range of needs, including district heating, power generation and non‑electric uses such as hydrogen production.

    “These patent applications for ZEUS reaffirm our commitment to strengthening NANO Nuclear’s intellectual property portfolio,” said Prof. Massimiliano Fratoni, Senior Director and Head of Reactor Design of NANO Nuclear. “The applications are directed towards safeguarding ZEUS’s key processes and components, which would not only benefit our own program but also contribute to progress across the entire advanced nuclear reactor industry.”

    “We’re pleased to file these new patent applications, which reflect the hard and excellent work of our engineering and technical teams to advance our goal of bringing next‑generation microreactors, like ZEUS™, from development to commercialization,” said James Walker, Chief Executive Officer of NANO Nuclear.”

    About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

    NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is an advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across five business lines: (i) cutting edge portable and other microreactor technologies, (ii) nuclear fuel fabrication, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation, (iv) nuclear applications for space and (v) nuclear industry consulting services. NANO Nuclear believes it is the first portable nuclear microreactor company to be listed publicly in the U.S.

    Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s reactor products in development include patented KRONOS MMR™ Energy System, a stationary high-temperature gas-cooled reactor that is in construction permit pre-application engagement U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in collaboration with University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (U. of I.), “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor, and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor, and the space focused, portable LOKI MMR™, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors.

    Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world aiming to build a North American transportation company that will provide commercial quantities of HALEU fuel to small modular reactors, microreactor companies, national laboratories, military, and DOE programs. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy. Assuming development and commercialization, AFT is expected to form part of the only vertically integrated nuclear fuel business of its kind in North America.

    HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear’s own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry.

    NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear’s developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as the LOKI MMR™ system and other power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon’s surface.

    For more corporate information please visit: https://NanoNuclearEnergy.com/

    For further NANO Nuclear information, please contact:

    Email: IR@NANONuclearEnergy.com
    Business Tel: (212) 634-9206

    PLEASE FOLLOW OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES HERE:

    NANO Nuclear Energy LINKEDIN
    NANO Nuclear Energy YOUTUBE
    NANO Nuclear Energy X PLATFORM

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This news release and statements of NANO Nuclear’s management in connection with this news release contain or may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “potential”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. In this press release, forward-looking statements related to the anticipated benefits of the patent applications described herein. These and other forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) or related state or non-U.S. nuclear fuel licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology and the acquisition of complimentary technology or businesses, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays, integration issues and the development of competitive technology, (iii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop, gain registered intellectual property protection for, and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other technology in the timelines we anticipate, if ever, (v) risks related to the impact of U.S. and non-U.S. government regulation, policies and licensing requirements, including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the operating an early stage business a highly regulated and rapidly evolving industry. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov and at https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Algernon Yau visits Tokyo

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau today attended the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT) Ministerial Meeting, aimed at strengthening regional collaboration on the development of information and communications technology, in Tokyo, Japan.

     

    Whilst in Tokyo, the commerce chief also took the opportunity to meet Japanese political and business leaders.

     

    Speaking at a discussion session at the ministerial meeting, Mr Yau spoke about Hong Kong’s efforts in building sustainable and accessible information and communications technology infrastructure, and its commitment to a more inclusive and resilient digital future.

     

    Mr Yau said in the wake of the full liberalisation of its telecommunications market in 2003, Hong Kong’s telecommunications sector has become one of the most advanced, open, and dynamic markets globally.

     

    He highlighted that Hong Kong leads the world on mobile voice affordability, ranks second globally on mobile broadband affordability, and is seventh on fixed broadband affordability. The city’s 5G availability also ranks first in the Asia-Pacific region.

     

    Mr Yau emphasised that Hong Kong’s robust infrastructure provides a strong foundation for sustainable telecommunications development, including future 6G deployment and other cutting-edge services.

     

    The 6G Global Summit held in Hong Kong earlier this month, which was the summit’s first edition in the Asia-Pacific region, also focused support for 6G development.

     

    With regard to innovation and technology (I&T), Mr Yau explained that the Hong Kong I&T Development Blueprint, promulgated in 2022, set out clear development directions and strategies including, including accelerated development of new digital infrastructure.

     

    He added that artificial intelligence (AI) opens up vast new opportunities for global economic development and scientific research, and that Hong Kong is developing its AI ecosystem on various fronts. This include the launch of the AI Supercomputing Centre at Cyberport to meet demand for high-performance computing power.

     

    Mr Yau said Hong Kong will continue to work hand in hand with APT members and other stakeholders to advance sustainable infrastructure and promote eco-friendly information and communications technology for a connected future.

     

    Meanwhile, Mr Yau also paid a courtesy call on Japan-Hong Kong Parliamentarian League Chairman and House of Councillors Member Jimi Hanako to update her on Hong Kong’s latest economic and trade developments.

     

    Upon arriving in Tokyo yesterday, Mr Yau paid a courtesy call on Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs Miyaji Takuma.

     

    Noting the close bilateral relations between the two places, Mr Yau updated Mr Miyaji on Hong Kong’s robust economic developments on various fronts under the “one country, two systems” principle, and solicited Japan’s support for Hong Kong’s early accession to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership.

     

    Mr Yau also met Japan Association of Corporate Executives representatives to promote Hong Kong’s business advantages and investment opportunities.

     

    The commerce chief will return to Hong Kong tomorrow after the APT Ministerial Meeting concludes.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Topping out at Langage Freeport site

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Foundations – Tick. Frame – Tick. Walls – Tick. Now the roof is being topped out on the first purpose-built commercial units within the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport.

    Councillor Mark Lowry – Cabinet Member for Finance
    Richard May – CEO of the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport
    Nigel Whelan – Managing Director of Devon Contractors

    Cabinet member for Finance Mark Lowry was on hand to mark this crucial milestone in the development of four units in Beaumont Way, Langage – one of three Freeport tax sites as part of the region’s continuing success story in the marine, defence, space, advanced manufacturing, engineering and clean energy sectors.

    Devon Contractors are progressing the construction of the units which range in size from 750 square metres to just over 2,000 sqm.

    The units will have workshop/production space inside with fully fitted offices at ground and first floor level (with lift access) and welfare facilities, including showers.

    Each will have its own dedicated service yard, parking and EV charging pod and the units will be highly sustainable and incorporate technology to minimise carbon emissions and running costs, including solar photo-voltaic panels, increased levels of insulation, higher levels of natural daylight and ventilation and highly efficient heating systems. The units are being designed and built to BREEAM Excellent standards and Net Zero status.

    As part of its own social values policies, the Council is always keen to consider social value measures that a contractor can apply to projects carried out on behalf of the Council and this has been achieved in spades at this Langage site.

    Seven students from Brook Green Centre recently enjoyed a site tour through the support of DUCTU (www.ductu.co.uk) and the Devon Careers Hub and had a go at bricklaying. Small groups from Plympton Academy and Tor Bridge will shortly visit and the site will soon host an event for military personnel to tour the site and discuss opportunities available in the construction industry.

    Plymouth City Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “This site is so much more than just buildings. It is about potential – not just companies interested in being part of the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport story.

    “One of our priorities as a Council is ‘green investment, jobs, skills and better education.’ I am really chuffed to hear the work Devon Contractors are doing here on this site to inspire our next generation of workers and let them see at first hand work what skilled, well-paid jobs looks like. It’s just brilliant.”

    The development has been made possible thanks to a £4 million Freeport seed capital funding, match funded by Plymouth City Council. Once complete, it is expected to support around 138 full time jobs and associated long term spin off benefits.

    Richard May CEO of the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport said; “It’s wonderful to witness the first new industrial units being built in the Freeport with many more to follow over the next few years.

    “We have several businesses keen to move in and they will help us strengthen local capability, innovation and bring on new skills in our key sectors of marine, defence, space, advanced manufacturing, engineering and clean tech.”

    Devon Contractors are on target to finish the scheme in time for units to be ready to move into by Autumn 2025.

    Nigel Whelan, Managing Director of Devon Contractors, said: “We’re making excellent progress on site at Langage and its a testament to the collaborative spirit across the board.

    “Our supply chain, consultants, suppliers and the client team have all come together as one, working seamlessly to drive the project forward. This level of co-operation is what allows us to maintain momentum and deliver with confidence. Were particularly excited to be launching our work placements schools projects next month – a great opportunity to engage the next generation and share in the future of construction.”

    The Langage Tax Site is the largest of three tax sites for the Freeport and is on the edge of the existing Langage Business Park. It is strategically significant as it provides the space and opportunities to support sector growth plans and economic specialisation, underpinning the Freeport’s trade and investment objectives.

    Eligible businesses that are part of the Freeport can take advantage of a range of tax and customs benefits and incentives to support growth, innovation and investment in the South West, including business rates relief, employer National Insurance contributions rate relief, stamp duty land tax relief, capital allowances, VAT and tariff benefits and simplified import procedures.

    As this site is part of the Freeport designated tax site, eligible tenants must specialise in either marine, defence, space, advanced manufacturing, engineering or clean energy.

    Interested parties should contact [email protected] or for information about the Freeport contact [email protected]

    www.plymouth.gov.uk/langage-south-beaumont-way

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –