Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Operational event at Taishan Nuclear Power Station???
Taishan Nuclear Power Joint Venture Co Ltd has reported the relevant situation to the nuclear safety regulatory authority in a timely manner, and will conduct internal experience review. It has also released the details of this event on its website (www.tnpjvc.com.cnIssued at HKT 12:15
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Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
The Indian benchmark indices opened higher on Thursday amid positive global cues, as buying was seen in the IT and metal sectors in the early trade.
At 9:29 am, the BSE Sensex was up 237.56 points or 0.29 per cent at 81,549.88, while the NSE Nifty rose 57 points or 0.23 per cent to trade at 24,809.45.
Sectoral indices also showed strength, with the Nifty Bank gaining 86.95 points or 0.16 per cent to 55,503.95. The Nifty Midcap 100 index was up 105.80 points or 0.19 per cent at 57,247.20, and the Nifty Smallcap 100 rose by 85.20 points or 0.48 per cent to 17,869.20.
Despite the Nifty declining for the past two sessions, analysts noted a drop in the India VIX, indicating a lack of demand for downside protection—typically not seen when investor sentiment is bearish.
“The 24,462 level remains crucial to determine whether this is a temporary dip or the beginning of a deeper correction. As long as the Nifty holds above this level, it remains a buyer’s market,” said Akshay Chinchalkar, Head of Research at Axis Securities.
Among the top performers in the Sensex pack were Infosys, Tata Steel, Tech Mahindra, Sun Pharma, HCL Tech, Tata Motors, HDFC Bank, Power Grid, TCS and L&T. Bajaj Finance was the only stock in the red during early trade.
Asian markets also opened in the green, with indices in Hong Kong, Bangkok, Seoul, China, and Japan trading higher. Jakarta was the only notable exception, trading lower.
On Wall Street, the previous session ended in losses. The Dow Jones closed at 42,098.70, down 244.95 points or 0.58 per cent. The S&P 500 fell 32.99 points or 0.56 per cent to 5,888.55, while the Nasdaq slipped 98.23 points or 0.51 per cent to 19,100.94.
Market sentiment remained sensitive to global developments, including U.S. tariff-related news. “The U.S. Federal Court striking down the reciprocal tariffs sends a strong message—that the President cannot act unilaterally against the interests of the market and the economy,” said Dr. V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.
On the institutional front, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) were net buyers on May 28, purchasing equities worth ₹4,662.92 crore. Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) also continued their buying spree, picking up stocks worth ₹7,911.99 crore.
— IANS
Source: New Zealand Parliament –
The objective of the bill is to improve timeliness in New Zealand’s courts by maximising judicial resources. It aims to ensure that judicial time is focused on the most critical tasks and decisions.
The bill would amend the Senior Courts Act 2016, the Criminal Procedure Act 2011, and the Coroners Act 2006. It would:
Make a submission on the bill by 1pm on Wednesday 25 June 2025.
For media enquiries contact:
Justice Committee staff
04 817 9520 / justice@parliament.govt.nz
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Film Archive to present free screenings of Cantonese opera-themed film classic “The Dutiful Daughter Chu-chu”
Connie Chan Po-chu plays the lead role of Chu-chu, who earns money by disguising herself as a Japanese acrobat in an amusement park in order to support her mother in the hospital. After meeting Cantonese opera actor Wong, played by Lam Kar-sing, Chu-chu is inspired by Wong and decides to learn Cantonese opera from Wong and his master Pak, played by the “King of Wusheng” Lan Chi Pak, to make an honest living.
Much of the film focuses on Chu-chu’s Cantonese opera training sessions under Wong and Pak, which are realistic and compelling portrayals of how the traditional art form is preserved and passed on through generations. Lam, who is also the film’s operatic director, showcased his solid Cantonese opera skills, embodying the awe-inspiring charisma and essence of the art form. The appearance of Lan Chi Pak in modern attire in the film is also a rare sight on screen.
The film will be screened in three time slots at noon, 3pm and 6pm on June 21 at the HKFA Cinema, accompanied by pre-screening talks hosted by film critic Grace Ng.
Admission is free with tickets to be distributed starting from June 1 (Sunday) at the information counter of the HKFA on Mondays and from Wednesdays to Sundays from 10am to 8pm. Each person can receive up to two tickets on a first-come, first-served basis while stocks last. Limited walk-in seats will also be available on a first-come, first-served basis, and members of the public are welcome to queue up at the 1/F Foyer of the HKFA 45 minutes before the screening begins. Each person can register for one ticket while stocks last.
For programme details, please visit www.filmarchive.gov.hk/en/web/hkfa/2025/ich-month-2025/pe-event-2025-chu-chu.html
Hong Kong ICH Month 2025 is presented by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and organised by the Intangible Cultural Heritage Office of the LCSD, with ICH June as a strategic partner. For details of the programmes, please visit the website www.icho.hk/en/web/icho/hk_ich_month_2025.htmlIssued at HKT 12:00
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Source:
Increased fire risk in Victoria throughout winter
*Emergency Management Victoria’s media release
March and April saw the fourth highest temperatures on record, below average rainfall across much of Victoria and an extension of the Fire Danger Period in some parts of the state for the first time since 2019.
These conditions, coupled with existing underlying dryness, has led to a higher level of dried grass and vegetation. In grassland, halted pasture growth has led to grazed-out or bare conditions.
As a result, an above average bushfire risk is predicted for much of southwest Gippsland, extending into central, southwest and northwest Victoria, as well as parts of northeast Victoria this winter. The increased risk isn’t for long-running bushfires, but events caused by uncontrolled burn-offs and other activities.
Normal rainfall is expected this winter, and Victorians can expect normal fire potential across the rest of the state. However, fires are possible on dry and windy days in areas with dry or cured vegetation.
Even in winter, it’s vital for communities to remain vigilant, particularly if burning-off. Register your burn-off and monitor weather conditions. Have sufficient equipment and water to stop the fire spreading and never leave a burn-off unattended.
The emergency management sector is continuing its preparedness activities with statewide briefings and state-level exercising. Incident management personnel are doing all they can to prepare for emerging risks and respond to any emergencies.
The Seasonal Outlook for winter is developed by the Australian and New Zealand Fire and Emergency Services Council (AFAC) and supported by the Bureau of Meteorology, along with state and territory fire and land managers
It’s important for communities to understand their local risks. Keep up to date with the Fire Danger Ratings on the VicEmergency app and VicEmergency website.
Quotes attributable to Acting Country Fire Authority Chief Officer Garry Cook AFSM
“The lack of rainfall and dry vegetation across many parts of the state is a great concern for firefighters this time of the year and we’re asking people to remain vigilant and not become complacent just because we’re not in summer anymore.
“While cooler days are arriving, the landscape remains dry enough to allow fires to start and spread quickly if a burn-off gets out of control, especially when coupled with strong winds.
“The impact and damage of an escaped fire on local communities and emergency services can be devastating.”
| Submitted by | CFA media |
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Source:
Fire Rescue Victoria Deputy Commissioner, Community Safety, Joshua Fischer, Ashlea and Michael Vamplew with Harlow and Cranbourne Fire Brigade CFA member Zoe Russell.
The call comes as the latest figures show that between May 2024 and May 2025, FRV and CFA responded to more than 1,880 residential fires across Victoria, while 18 people died in preventable house fires during 2024.
Most fatal fires and those that cause serious injuries occur in bedrooms and living areas, however, FRV and CFA’s most recent survey of Victorians revealed just 17 percent of Victorians are protected by smoke alarms in their bedrooms.
On a cold August night last year, Michael Vamplew and his partner Ashlea woke to hear their two-year-old daughter Harlow screaming for help, after a fire took hold in her bedroom when her bed linen was ignited by a malfunctioning nightlight and powerboard.
Despite having smoke alarms installed in the hallways, no alarm was triggered as Harlow’s bedroom door was closed, containing most of the smoke inside.
“We heard her scream and call for help. I saw smoke rolling out beneath her bedroom door,” said Mr Vamplew.
“I knew we were in trouble and did what any other parent would do – the door was swollen shut from the heat of the fire, so I kicked it down. I just prayed that my daughter was safe. As I opened the door, she was standing there and I just grabbed her.”
Mr Vamplew saw flames had engulfed the majority of Harlow’s bedroom, from floor to ceiling.
“If there was a smoke alarm in the bedroom, it would have picked up the initial smoke before there was such a large fire,” he said.
In line with the family’s home fire escape plan, while Mr Vamplew got Harlow to safety, Ashlea helped to evacuate the other children and contacted the authorities with FRV and CFA arriving to tackle the blaze. Harlow was treated for third degree burns to her feet.
The Vamplews have since installed interconnected smoke alarms throughout their home so when one alarm activates, all will now sound.
“Everyone should definitely have smoke alarms in their bedrooms because they allow you to act before it is too late,” said Mr Vamplew.
“We have three children under four and if the fire had been in our one-year-old’s room, then the situation could have been significantly worse.”
Fire Rescue Victoria Deputy Commissioner, Community Safety, Joshua Fischer hopes the Vamplew family’s lucky escape sends a strong message to all Victorians.
“What happened to the Vamplew family clearly demonstrates why it is so vital to have smoke alarms fitted in every bedroom of your home,” said Joshua.
CFA Acting Chief Officer Garry Cook hoped this Smoke Alarm Action Day (1 June), residents feel prompted to reevaluate the placement and condition of their smoke alarms.
“We know fire risk is greatest when you are asleep, because we can lose our sense of smell. Without a working smoke alarm in your bedroom, your family may not wake up in time to safely escape,” Garry said.
When checking, installing, or replacing your smoke alarms, FRV and CFA advises:
| Submitted by | CFA media |
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Source:
The wind farm fire began at about 9.30pm on Wednesday 28 May and seven CFA units from Ararat, Stawell and Great Western fire brigades attended the scene.
CFA District 16 Commander Ben Townsend said the fire was monitored by the company last night and crews were called back when it reignited at about 3.20am.
“CFA crews that attended did what they could do to create safety zones and remained clear of the structure,” Ben said.
“Crews were initially called out because the main body of the wind turbine was on fire. They contacted the operator of the turbines and shut them down.
“Crews left the scene in the hands of the owners to monitor and just after 3am they got called back because a blade had caught fire, dislodged and fell to the ground.”
The scene is now under control and will be investigated.
| Submitted by | CFA media |
|---|
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
Burnie man on firearms charge
Thursday, 29 May 2025 – 2:15 pm.
A 64-year-old man has been arrested and remanded in custody after the discovery of illicit drugs and a homemade gun at a Burnie residence.
The arrest follows the search of a property in the suburb of Romaine on Monday, where Tasmania Police allege a quantity of illicit substances and a homemade firearm were located.
The Burnie man was taken into custody and has since been remanded to appear in court at a later date.
Police remain committed to targeting the possession and distribution of illicit substances and unlawful firearms in the community.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 131 444 or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or via the website at www.crimestopperstas.com.au
Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Alexander M. Hynd, Lecturer, Korean Politics/International Relations, The University of Melbourne
On June 3, South Koreans will head to the polls to choose the country’s new president. The election may draw to a close one of the most chaotic and contentious periods in the country’s post-1987 democratic era.
South Korea has been embroiled in a political crisis since December, when former President Yoon Suk Yeol disastrously declared martial law.
Yoon ordered security forces to block lawmakers from entering the National Assembly, leading to a dramatic late night confrontation. His unconstitutional decree was overturned after just six hours.
The fall-out was equally dramatic: Yoon was impeached and removed from office in a drawn-out process that was not finally resolved until April.
This period coincided with massive street demonstrations both opposing and supporting Yoon, a far-right assault on a courthouse and a physical stand-off between investigators and Yoon’s personal security team.
The country, meanwhile, has cycled through three short-lived caretaker leaders.
With weak economic growth and high costs of living, in addition to an equally challenging security environment, South Korea is in desperate need of bold and effective leadership.
The Democratic Party’s Lee Jae-myung is the clear frontrunner to be the next president, after finishing a close second in the previous 2022 election.
Recent polling put the veteran left-leaning politician at around 49% support as the race entered the final week.
This is a double-digit lead over his main conservative opponent, Kim Moon-soo, polling at 35%. Another conservative candidate, Lee Jun-seok, is polling at 11%. Notably, for the first time since 2007, there are no female candidates standing to be president.
The high levels of support for Lee Jae-myung suggest a widespread desire among the public to repudiate Yoon’s martial law declaration.
Kim, the labour minister in Yoon’s administration, has apologised for December’s declaration. But his opponents have continued to question him about it.
Kim’s challenge has been to build a coalition of moderates and mainstream conservatives who firmly opposed the martial law declaration, while also winning support from those who believe far-right conspiracy theories around election fraud. Yoon, the former president, is continuing to promote these narratives.
Lee Jae-myung’s personal story has uplifting parallels with South Korea’s own history of economic and political development.
Lee was born into poverty; the exact date of his birth is not known. He worked in factories from a very young age and permanently injured his left arm in an industrial accident when he was still a child.
Lee went on to earn a scholarship to study law and, by the late 1980s, had established himself as a labour lawyer and activist.
This activist image was highlighted when he live-streamed himself dramatically scaling a fence to enter the National Assembly and vote down Yoon’s martial law declaration in December. He has previously compared himself to populist, progressive US Senator Bernie Sanders.
More recently, however, he has moderated his political rhetoric and policy platform to appeal to centrists and even some conservative voters.
This shift may also help shield Lee from the “red-baiting” claims left-leaning South Korean candidates typically face from conservative opponents that they are “communists”, “pro-China”, or “pro-North Korea”.
But Lee is also plagued by legal troubles, including corruption charges linked to a land development project. These charges, frequently highlighted by his opponents, risk derailing his administration if he wins the election.
Some international commentators have focused on how the next president will handle North Korea. South Koreans, however, are more interested in the candidates’ plans to fix the country’s troubled economy.
Lee Jae-myung has pledged to immediately establish an emergency economic taskforce if he takes office.
There has also been a vigorous debate over South Korea’s future energy policy. Kim favours expanding nuclear energy production to around 60% of the country’s energy mix. Lee has voiced safety concerns about nuclear power, arguing “the era of building more reactors should come to an end”.
Additionally, questions remain over potential constitutional reform to end South Korea’s so-called “imperial presidency” system, which has been blamed for centralising too much power in the hands of the president.
The system dates back to the rewriting of the constitution following mass protests in 1987. This established direct presidential elections and a single, five-year term.
Both Lee and Kim support changing this to a four-year, two-term presidential system, similar to the United States.
On the international stage, the new leader will face an uphill battle negotiating with US President Donald Trump over his punitive tariffs. Trump imposed 25% tariffs on South Korean goods in April, but lowered them temporarily to 10% until early July.
Before his impeachment, Yoon was widely reported to be practising his golf skills to attempt to find common ground with Trump, much as former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe did.
The new leader will also face massive challenges bringing South Korean society together in the current climate. Political polarisation and the spread of disinformation worsened under Yoon’s presidency – and these trends will be hard to reverse.
Alexander M. Hynd 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. After a chaotic 6 months, South Koreans will elect a new president – and hope for bold leadership – https://theconversation.com/after-a-chaotic-6-months-south-koreans-will-elect-a-new-president-and-hope-for-bold-leadership-257348
Source: US Army (video statements)
U.S. Soldiers assigned to 4th Battalion, 60th Air Defense Artillery Regiment participated in the Bearing the Burden deadlift competition in Fort Sill, Oklahoma.
About the U.S. Army: The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force. Interested in joining the U.S. Army? Visit:
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Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
Billionaire Tesla CEO Elon Musk is leaving the Trump administration after leading a tumultuous efficiency drive, during which he upended several federal agencies, but ultimately failed to deliver the generational savings he had sought.
His “off-boarding will begin tonight,” a White House official told Reuters late Wednesday, confirming Musk’s departure from government. Musk earlier on Wednesday took to his social media platform X to thank President Donald Trump as his time as a special government employee with the Department of Government Efficiency draws to an end.
His departure was quick and unceremonious. He did not have a formal conversation with Trump before announcing his exit, according to a source with knowledge of the matter, who added that his departure was decided “at a senior staff level.”
While the precise circumstances of his exit were not immediately clear, he leaves a day after criticizing Trump’s marquee tax bill, calling it too expensive and a measure that would undermine his work with the U.S. DOGE Service.
Some senior White House officials, including Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, were particularly irked by those comments, and the White House was forced to call Republican senators to reiterate Trump’s support for the package, a source familiar with the matter said.
While Musk remains close to the president, his exit comes after a gradual, but steady slide in standing.
After Trump’s inauguration, the billionaire quickly emerged as a powerful force in Trump’s orbit: hyper-visible, unapologetically brash and unfettered by traditional norms. At the Conservative Political Action Conference in February, he brandished a red metallic chainsaw to wild cheers. “This is the chainsaw for bureaucracy,” he declared.
On the campaign trail, Musk had said DOGE would be able to cut at least $2 trillion in federal spending. He did not hide his animus for the federal workforce, and he predicted that revoking “the COVID-era privilege” of telework would trigger “a wave of voluntary terminations that we welcome.”
But some cabinet members who initially embraced Musk’s outsider energy grew wary of his tactics, sources said. Over time, they grew more confident pushing back against his job cuts, encouraged by Trump’s reminder in early March that staffing decisions rested with department secretaries, not with Musk.
Musk clashed with three of Trump’s most senior cabinet members – Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. He called Trump’s trade adviser Peter Navarro a “moron” and “dumber than a sack of bricks.” Navarro dismissed the insults, saying, “I’ve been called worse.”
At the same time, Musk began to hint that his time in government would come to a close, while expressing frustration at times that he could not more aggressively cut spending.
In an April 22 Tesla conference call, he signaled he would be significantly scaling back his government work to focus on his businesses.
DOGE GOES ON
Musk’s 130-day mandate as a special government employee in the Trump administration was set to expire around May 30. The administration has said DOGE’s efforts to restructure and shrink the federal government will continue.
“The DOGE mission will only strengthen over time as it becomes a way of life throughout the government,” Musk said.
Trump and DOGE have managed to cut nearly 12%, or 260,000, of the 2.3 million-strong federal civilian workforce largely through threats of firings, buyouts and early retirement offers, a Reuters review of agency departures found.
Musk on Tuesday criticized the price tag of Republicans’ tax and budget legislation making its way through Congress.
“I was disappointed to see the massive spending bill, frankly, which increases the budget deficit, not just decreases it, and undermines the work that the DOGE team is doing,” Musk told CBS News.
His political activities have drawn protests and some investors have called for him to leave his work as Trump’s adviser and more closely manage Tesla, which has seen falls in sales and its stock price.
Musk, the world’s richest person, has defended his role as an unelected official who was granted unprecedented authority by Trump to dismantle parts of the U.S. government.
Having spent nearly $300 million to back Trump’s presidential campaign and other Republicans last year, he said earlier this month he would substantially cut his political spending.
“I think I’ve done enough,” Musk said at an economic forum in Qatar.
(Reuters)
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting Sikkim and West Bengal today to launch a series of development projects and participate in the golden jubilee celebrations of Sikkim’s statehood.
At Paljor Stadium in Gangtok, the Prime Minister will attend the event titled ‘Sikkim@50: Where Progress Meets Purpose and Nature Nurtures Growth’, marking 50 years since the former kingdom became the 22nd state of India. Sikkim’s statehood in 1975 followed a historic referendum that ended its monarchy and facilitated its merger with the Indian Union. The state was granted special constitutional protection under Article 371F, aimed at preserving its unique ethnic identity and cultural traditions.
Over the last five decades, Sikkim has gained recognition for its sustainable development practices and environmental efforts. The state government has planned a year-long celebration under the theme ‘Sunaulo, Samriddha and Samarth Sikkim’, honouring its cultural richness and developmental journey.
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for multiple development initiatives, including a new 500-bedded district hospital in Namchi, a passenger ropeway at Sangachoeling in Gyalshing district, and a statue of Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee at Atal Amrit Udyan in Gangtok district. He will also release a commemorative coin, souvenir coin and stamp to mark the 50th anniversary of Sikkim’s statehood.
In preparation for the Prime Minister’s visit, the Sikkim government issued an advisory announcing the temporary closure of offices and schools in Gangtok and imposed traffic restrictions across key routes. Formal invitations were extended to all senior officials, including Deputy Secretaries and Under Secretaries, along with staff from various departments and public sector undertakings.
Later in the day, PM Modi will visit Alipurduar in West Bengal, where he will lay the foundation stone for the City Gas Distribution (CGD) project in Alipurduar and Cooch Behar districts. The initiative is aimed at expanding clean energy infrastructure in the region.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
EDMONDS, WA– Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, praised the U.S. Court of International Trade for striking down Donald Trump’s global tariffs, which amounted to massive new taxes on American consumers:
“I am glad the Court of International Trade unanimously recognized that the President exceeded his authority. We need trade to flow through our ports. The remaining 10 percent global tariffs on Europe and 30 percent tariff on China should be lifted to lower prices for American families and to stabilize supply chains for US manufacturers. And Congress and the courts should take a close look at the other tariffs the president has planned.”
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
JAKARTA, May 29 (Xinhua) — Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on Wednesday received French President Emmanuel Macron in Jakarta for high-level talks on key sectors including defense, energy, economy, investment, education and transportation.
“Today we agreed to move forward by adopting a common vision to celebrate 100 years of Indonesian-French relations by 2050,” P. Subianto said at a joint press conference following the meeting.
In the defense sector, both countries pledged to strengthen cooperation, including efforts to build human resource capacity. On the economic front, both leaders expressed support for more balanced trade and investment ties.
“Our ties are strengthening in various areas, especially in energy, food security, free food and maritime affairs,” the Indonesian president said.
Bilateral relations have also improved in the areas of culture, creative economy, transport and education, he added.
During the visit, a total of 21 cooperation documents were signed or presented, reflecting a strong commitment to bilateral cooperation.
These agreements cover a variety of formats and areas, such as defence, agriculture, essential minerals, sustainable forestry, creative and cultural industries, disaster risk management, transport and sport. –0–
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
UNITED NATIONS, May 28 (Xinhua) — The United Nations special coordinator a.i. for the Middle East peace process Sigrid Kaag on Wednesday warned that the “two states for two peoples” solution is in danger of being undermined, calling for collective action to restore it.
“The principle of ‘two states for two peoples’ is in danger of being disrupted. Its revival requires collective action,” said S. Kaag. “Peace cannot be a deal or a partial, temporary agreement. It must be based on international consensus and legitimacy, moving from conflict management to its end.”
There can be no sustainable peace in the Middle East without a resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The region’s future will remain linked to its unresolved past unless bold political will and solutions break the vicious circle, she told the Security Council.
Palestinian statehood is a right, not a reward, she said. –0–
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, May 29 (Xinhua) — China has released a plan to implement digital transformation of the electronic information manufacturing industry, setting a target for large enterprises to have the digital management ratio at key stages of the production process exceed 85 percent by 2027.
The plan, released jointly by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and other government agencies, stressed that the electronic information production industry is a strategic, fundamental and innovative sector of the national economy.
According to the plan, this industry, characterized by large scale, long industrial chains and wide coverage, plays a key role in integrating the real economy and the digital economy, promoting new-type industrialization, and cultivating and building up new-quality productive forces.
The plan also notes that by 2027, a new type of information infrastructure will be established that will greatly promote the digital transformation and intelligent upgrading of the electronic information production industry. Through this infrastructure, advanced computing and artificial intelligence will be deeply integrated into the development of the industry.
It is expected that by 2030, a relatively advanced data infrastructure system for the electronic information production industry will be established, and the industrial database will be basically formed. In addition, by this time, a series of flagship intelligent products will also be developed and a digital ecosystem will be formed.
The efficiency and quality of digital transformation will be significantly improved, with further breakthroughs expected in its expansion to the top of the global value chain by 2030, the plan says.
According to the document, efforts will also be made to promote digital transformation across the entire industrial chain and accelerate the testing and deployment of innovative products such as smart wearables and smart robots. -0-
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
***PHOTOS HERE***
Thorp, WA — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, visited Kittitas County to tour the Springwood Ranch, which was recently acquired as part of the Yakima Basin Integrated Plan (YBIP) after many years of effort by the Yakama Nation and stakeholders. Springwood Ranch is now jointly owned by the Yakama Nation, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Kittitas County, and the Kittitas Reclamation District. YBIP brings together state, federal, tribal, agricultural, and environmental stakeholders to develop a comprehensive strategy for water resource management and ecosystem restoration in the Yakima basin.
On the visit, Senator Murray heard from Yakama Nation members and local stakeholders about how the purchase of Springwood Ranch was a major victory for the Yakima Basin Integrated Plan. Springwood Ranch has served as a traditional gathering spot for Yakama Nation tribes, and has been used as a venue for tribal gatherings, trade events, and recreation for centuries. The 3,600 acres of land at Springwood Ranch will continue being used for cultural purposes as well as agriculture, habitat restoration along the 6.5 miles of Yakima River on the property, and an off-channel reservoir for vital water storage for the region. Joining Senator Murray for the visit were: Phil Rigdon, DNR Superintendent, Yakama Nation; Joe Blodgett, Project Policy Coordinator, Yakama Nation Fisheries; David Blodgett, Program Manager, Yakama Nation Fisheries; Urban Eberhart, Manager, Kittitas Reclamation District; Mike Livingston, South Central Regional Director (Region 3), Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife; Caseymac Wallahee, Yakama Nation Tribal Council; and Peter Dykstra with the Trust for Public Land, among others.
“I was glad to have the opportunity to join members of the Yakama Nation and local leaders to tour just some of the 3,600 acres of Springwood Ranch and see the reservoir firsthand, which will provide critical water storage and protect fisheries and agriculture in the Yakima Basin against drought. It was important to hear from Tribal members and stakeholders about what their priorities and plans are as this project moves forward, and how I can support them in their work to manage these lands and historic sites,” said Senator Murray. “This collaboration will improve water resources for nearby farms, safeguard critical wildlife habitat, all while honoring and preserving the cultural heritage of the Yakama Nation—it’s a true win-win for communities across the Yakima Basin and I couldn’t be more excited for the future of Springwood Ranch.”
“In 2025, the Yakima Basin is struggling through its third consecutive year of drought with the pro-ratable water users receiving 48 percent of our water supply. This drought is having a negative impact on both farms and fish. The Yakima Basin Integrated Plan partners appreciate Senator Murray making the time to visit the Springwood Reservoir project site. The construction of this reservoir will help meet the goals of the Yakima Basin Integrated Plan to provide this region with a strong economy and healthy ecosystem into the future,” said Kittitas Reclamation District Manager Urban Eberhart.
“The message that we need to carry on is the collaboration that’s taking place in this whole project. Look at what we can do when we have all these interest groups, with different goals and different agendas, coming together and working on this reservoir project and to show how successful we can be working together, rather than continuing to be divided,” said Joe Blodgett, Yakama Klickitat Fisheries Project manager
“The reservoir is going to help more fish survive and have more fish available to the fisherman that are both tribal and non-tribal. It also helps us with all the other listed species and restoration work of the last several decades. This fits into the bigger model of something for everybody, but also something that is going to have a profound impact on our ability to have water to manage for fish and fish migration in the Yakima Basin,” said Phil Rigdon, Yakama Nation Department of Natural Resources Superintendent.
“This is a role model for the entire nation on how to find common ground and work on behalf of both the environment and the economy. And supporting this project is going to do just that,” said Mike Livingston, Regional Director at Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife.
As a voice in the U.S. Senate for Washington state’s Tribal governments and communities, Senator Murray has long worked to make sure our nation lives up to its promises to support Tribal infrastructure, health care, education, housing, natural resources management, and more. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Senator Murray was instrumental in passing as then-Assistant Majority Leader provided more than $13 billion to directly support Tribal communities and made Tribes eligible to apply for or request billions in discretionary, formula, and other funding to deploy record investments to provide affordable high-speed internet, safer roads and bridges, modern wastewater and sanitation systems, clean drinking water, reliable and affordable electricity, and good paying jobs in every Tribal community. In total, this funding represents the single largest investment in Tribal infrastructure ever.
Senator Murray has also been a champion for protecting and strengthening critical salmon and fish populations throughout her time in the Senate. Senator Murray secured a historic $2.85 billion investment in salmon and ecosystem restoration programs—including $400 million for a new community-based restoration program focused on removing fish passage barriers in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—and in the Inflation Reduction Act, Murray secured hundreds of millions for Washington state priorities including $15 million for the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund, $3 million to support facilities at the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, $27 million for Pacific salmon research, and more. Last Congress, as then-Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Murray protected critical funding for salmon recovery and fishery projects in the Fiscal Year 2024 government spending bills she negotiated and passed into law, including securing: $50 million in the construction of the Howard Hanson Dam Fish Passage facility; $75 million for the Pacific Salmon account at the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), $65 million for the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund, $54 million for the EPA’s Puget Sound Geographic Program, and more.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
***PHOTOS, B-ROLL FROM VISIT HERE***
Wenatchee, WA — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, visited the Wenatchi Landing site to hear an update on the project and discuss how federal investment can help support the mixed-use commercial development area. Senator Murray was joined by a number of local leaders and stakeholders including Douglas County Board of Commissioners Chair Marc Straub, Vice Chair Dan Sutton, and Commissioner Randy Agnew; Chelan Douglas Regional Port Authority Commissioners Mark Spurgeon, Alan Loebsack, and Jim Huffman; Douglas County Sewer District Commissioners Wayne Barnhardt, Greg Peterson, and Cheryl Sutton; WSDOT Regional Administrator Chris Keifenhiem; CEO of Chelan Douglas Regional Port Authority Jim Kunz; Executive Director of Chelan Douglas Transportation Council Jeff Wilkens; and Link Transit CEO Nick Covey.
During her visit, Senator Murray was briefed on the status of the project at the Douglas County Public Services Building, and then the group headed out to tour the Wentachi Landing site. Wenatchi Landing is a 317-acre mixed-use development area on the east bank of the Columbia River, across the US-2 bridge from Sunnyslope and Wenatchee. The approved Master Site Plan envisions an array of mixed-use development and amenities in the area, including housing, offices, retail spaces, business parks, resort-style hospitality, and wineries—all with access to the region’s popular Apple Capital Loop trail network. Douglas County has applied for an $18 million BUILD (formerly RAISE) grant with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to fund completion of Phase 1 of the project, and Senator Murray recently sent a letter to DOT Secretary Sean Duffy supporting Douglas County’s BUILD grant application. Another potential avenue for the project to secure federal funding is through Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS)—funding Members of Congress can direct to projects in their states and districts to support local communities. CDS funding is part of the annual appropriations bills that Senator Murray helps write and negotiate as Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee.
“The Wentachi Landing project means so much to Douglas County—it’s going to bring more jobs, new residents, and tourism to the area with the new development of everything from a regional job center to retail and housing,” said Senator Murray. “So, it was important for me to come here to see the site, learn about the path ahead, and hear what I can do to best support this work at the federal level. I’m already exploring all avenues to help secure the funding this project needs, whether that’s helping to support grant applications or securing funding through Congressionally Directed Spending in our appropriations bills. Federal investment is going to be essential to turning the vision for Wenatchi Landing into a reality, and you can bet I will be doing everything in my power to ensure this project moves forward.”
Chair Marc Straub said, “On behalf of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, we are grateful to Senator Murray for her steadfast and unwavering support of the Wenatchi Landing project and her ongoing efforts to champion federal investment in our region. Wenatchi Landing represents a transformative opportunity—not just for Douglas County, but for the entire region and Washington State. This project is poised to deliver significant economic growth, attract new businesses and jobs, and enhance transportation safety and connectivity along US-2/97. With Senator Murray’s support and advocacy, we are one step closer to realizing a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive development that will leave a lasting legacy of growth and connection for generations to come.”
As Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Murray writes and negotiates the annual appropriations bills—which provide federal funding across government—with her Republican counterparts every year. Washington state benefits tremendously from the BUILD—formerly RAISE—grant program Murray established. In the last round of RAISE grants—for Fiscal Year 2024, awarded in June 2024—Washington state was awarded the most grants of any state and received the most in total funding, nearly $90 million. In January, Murray announced another $56 million in RAISE grants for Washington state. President Trump renamed the RAISE grant program to Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) at the beginning of his term. Washington state’s Democratic Congressional delegation helped secure $7.5 billion for the BUILD program in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and have advocated strongly for Washington state’s BUILD grant applicants.
Source: Tertiary Education Commission
Our Board:
sets our strategic direction, makes decisions about funding allocations and provides guidance on our operations
monitors the performance of the Chief Executive and the organisation
oversees management of strategic risk.
Dr Alan Bollard CNZM, Chair
Alan Bollard is Chair of the New Zealand Portrait Gallery. He is New Zealand Governor of the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia, a Director of China Construction Bank (NZ), and Chair of the New Zealand Pacific Economic Cooperation Council.
He has been Chair of the New Zealand Infrastructure Commission, Professor of Pacific Region Business at Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington, and Chair of the Centres for Asia-Pacific Excellence.
Alan was the Director of the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research from 1987 to 1994, Chair of the New Zealand Commerce Commission from 1994 to 1998, and the Secretary to the Treasury between 1998 and 2020. From 2002 to 2012, he was the Governor of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. He was the Executive Director of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in Singapore from 2012 to 2018.
Alan has published a number of economics and popular books. He is a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, a Fellow of Royal Society Te Apārangi, and has honorary doctorate degrees from the University of Auckland and Massey University.
Robin Hapi CNZM, Deputy Chair
Robin Hapi was a former Commissioner of the Tertiary Education Commission from 2007 to 2013 and joins TEC for a second time from February 2025. This follows a term of 12 years as Amokapua/Chair of Te Wānanga o Raukawa. He has served on several Boards and led a range of commercial and not-for-profit entities.
Robin is currently Chair of Tū Ātea Ltd and Co-Chair of the Pūhoro STEMM Academy. His previous service includes positions on the Boards of Te Mātāwai, Kāinga Ora Homes and Communities, WorkSafe NZ and the Whānau Ora Commissioning Agency; he has also been Chair of the Māori Economic Development Advisory Board, Chair of BERL and Deputy Chair of Callaghan Innovation.
Robin is an old boy of Hato Pāora College and an alumni of Massey University, where he graduated with a Master of Business Administration with Distinction. In December 2015 Robin was awarded the Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) in recognition of his contribution to governance, community and Māori, and in 2022 he received the Dame Mira Szászy Lifetime award from the University of Auckland Business School for his contribution to governance. Robin is also a Distinguished Fellow of the NZ Institute of Directors.
Robin is of Ngāti Kahungunu descent and affiliates to Kahurānaki Marae, Te Hauke.
Dr Alastair MacCormick, Commissioner, Chair Whatitata Whakau – Risk and Assurance Committee
TEC’s longest serving Commissioner, Alastair was first appointed to the TEC Board of Commissioners in May 2017, and appointed as Chair of the Whatitata Whakau – Risk and Assurance Committee in August 2017.
Alastair is an Emeritus Professor of the University of Auckland. He holds a Doctorate in Management Science from Yale University and an MCom in Economics and a BSc in Mathematics and Physics from Auckland. For a decade he was Dean of Business and Economics at the University of Auckland and subsequently Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic).
Alastair also served over nine years on the Grants Committee of Callaghan Innovation for the Government support of Private Sector R&D and is a professional director with global experience in both public, private and listed companies.
Alastair’s generosity with his time and expertise is demonstrated in his role as Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Elizabeth Knox Home and Hospital (a voluntary role which Alastair has supported for almost 40 years) along with founding the New Zealand Education and Scholarship Trust in 1991. He has also spent 14 years on the Board of Trustees for Auckland Grammar School, serving as Chair of the Board for six years.
Alastair was awarded a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in The Queen’s Birthday and Platinum Jubilee Honours for services to tertiary education and the community.
Kirk Hope, Commissioner
“People are our greatest asset and the drivers of our economy. Business needs a training and development system to ensure everyone can reach their potential and New Zealand continues to prosper”.
Appointed in November 2019, Kirk brings strong current business sector knowledge to the TEC Board table. Kirk is the Chief Executive of the Financial Services Council. Previously, he was the Chief Executive of BusinessNZ, New Zealand’s largest business advocacy group with approximately 80,000 business connections.
It is not just his knowledge and understanding of business that Kirk brings to TEC. He has held the positions of CEO of the New Zealand Bankers’ Association, Executive Director of the Financial Services Federation, along with several executive positions in both government and banking industries.
The pairing of business acumen with a strong financial base, a Master’s in Law, an honours degree in political science, easily makes Kirk a great fit for TEC.
Kirk’s passion is giving back, so sometime in the future we could see him sharing his wealth of knowledge and business expertise through teaching – perhaps that will be after he finishes PhD in economic history (a long term goal) or when he isn’t surfing.
Samuelu (Sam) Sefuiva, Commissioner, Chair Ohu Tangata – People and Culture Committee
Sam has over 30 years’ experience in public policy, strategic and business advice, cultural and economic development and executive leadership. He has a strong professional and personal interest in the Pacific region particularly in human rights, social enterprise and public policy. Sam joined the TEC Board in January 2023.
Sam has mentored, led and facilitated senior executives in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific in improving international, regional and domestic non-government and community enterprise environments. His strengths are in high level policy advice and relations, strategic thinking, business planning and facilitation.
Currently his leadership roles include: Mana Whakapai-AMPTI (consortium) Manager, Auckland Māori and Pasifika Trades Training Initiative; Trustee, Digital Wings Trust; and Trustee Black Grace (Dance) Trust. Previously, Sam was Chief Advisor to the Race Relations Commissioner at the NZ Human Rights Commission.
Sam enjoys spending time with his family and including grandchildren, his wider Samoan fanau and village (Salani, Falealili), as well as some passive recreational activities such as reading, surfing, fishing.
Deidre Shea, Commissioner
“Accessible, quality educational opportunities for all New Zealanders throughout their lives are key to the health and success of our communities and our nation. I am privileged to be able to contribute to this as a member of TEC’s board.”
Commissioned in 2023, Deidre received her Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the 2022 Queen’s Birthday honours for services to Education.
Deidre held leadership roles with Ōnehunga High School (OHS) from 1995 and was Principal from 2007 until 2022. Her leadership extended to the Auckland Secondary School Principals’ Association from 2008 to 2015 and the Secondary Principals’ Association of New Zealand (SPANZ) 2014 to 2023. She became President of SPANZ from 2019 to 2021, leading through numerous challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic.
Deidre is committed to excellent, lifelong educational opportunities for all. She has overseen the establishment of a Construction School at OHS in 2005, followed by a Services Academy in 2007 and later a Health Science Academy. OHS operates the nation’s largest school-based Adult and Community Education programme.
Deidre has chaired Te Hikoi (formerly the AIMHI Alternative Education consortium) for the past decade.
Bharat Guha, Commissioner
Bharat Guha is the current Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for the Invercargill Licensing Trust. He is a chartered accountant with extensive experience in the education and hospitality sector.
Bharat has held numerous senior positions as CEO, Deputy CEO and CFO in different New Zealand and overseas organisations. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Bharat was based in London, working as the Group CFO for an LSE-listed company with branches in the UK, Malaysia, Singapore and Nepal.
Bharat was recognised as a Fellow of the Australia New Zealand Chartered Accountants for his financial work on the Zero Fee Scheme for the Southern Institute of Technology. In addition, he has developed and led successful government–private tertiary institution partnerships for attracting international students to New Zealand.
Bharat is a graduate of the University of Otago, undertaking a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting and Information Systems) and a Master in Business Administration. He also completed the Executive Leadership Programme at Oxford University and the Southland Leadership Academy.
Bharat is committed and passionate about ensuring the future growth of tertiary education in New Zealand.
Sharon McGuire, Commissioner
Sharon McGuire has a strong commercial background and knowledge of the polytechnic and broader tertiary sector. She also has governance experience with several entities. Her tertiary experience includes being a director for regional economic development with the Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology.
Sharon’s commercial experience includes working as a general manager in the hotels sector, as a director of a major sports franchise, work with Chambers of Commerce, and as a business owner specialising in project services and advising on business viability.
Sharon has held senior executive roles and is an experienced Director in the Not-for-Loss sector. Sharon is a great supporter of community organisations, and was awarded the Paul Harris Fellow for services to Rotary and the wider community.
Top
Source: US State of Nebraska
. Pillen Praises Passage of Bill to Shrink Government
LINCOLN, NE — Governor Jim Pillen released the following statement praising the Legislature for its unanimous passage of LB 346, which will shrink government by rightsizing or eliminating duplicative boards and commissions. The proposal was introduced on the Governor’s behalf by Speaker of the Legislature John Arch.
“We must shrink government. There’s more work to do, but LB346 is a great start. By eliminating or combining nearly 40 boards and commissions, we’re cleaning out the closets and making state government more efficient and more accountable to Nebraskans.”
In some cases, state agencies have assumed the duties carried out by the entities. In other situations, the efforts across those entities have become duplicative.
Source: US State of Nebraska
. Pillen’s Bill to Protect Kids Online Passes
LINCOLN, NE — Governor Jim Pillen, a leading advocate for Nebraska families and kids, praised the Legislature for its final passage of LB504, the Age-Appropriate Online Design Code Act. The bill was presented on the Governor’s behalf by Senator Carolyn Bosn.
“This bill fights back against far-left tech giants who are trying to get our kids addicted to their apps. By limiting the grip social media has on children, we’re giving parents a chance to fight back. I thank Senator Bosn for partnering with me and leading this effort on the floor. I’m proud to sign this legislation into law for Nebraska families.”
This legislation was introduced as part of a package of bills that prioritized protecting Nebraska’s children from harm resulting from big tech, social media and overuse of smartphones. LB504 will protect user data, give parents the ability to manage and control privacy and account settings and limits the ability of tech companies to target children by encouraging excessive use.
The bill is set to go into effect Jan. 1, 2026.
Source:
Members of the Stawell Fire Brigade
The Fire Medical Response (FMR) program will see CFA brigades and Ambulance Victoria dispatched simultaneously to cardiac arrests. Ultimately, 50 brigades across the state will provide this service.
CFA District 17 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Chris Eagle said the program is a perfect example of how CFA’s strong community footprint can help save lives.
“Our brigades are deeply embedded in our communities – we’re nearby, we’re trained, and we’re ready,” Chris said.
“This program gives us another way to support our communities and make a tangible difference in those first few critical minutes.”
CFA District 16 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Steve Alcock said local members had been preparing for months ahead of today’s launch.
“We’ve undergone extensive training with 12 members completing the FMR program, and we’re now ready to respond as part of the live rollout,” Steve said.
“Co-responding to cardiac arrest calls with our trained brigade members working alongside Ambulance Victoria crews allows us the opportunity to get to patients sooner and improve the chances of survival.”
CFA Acting Chief Officer Garry Cook AFSM said the program was a natural fit for CFA.
“Over coverage across Victoria puts us in a unique position to complement Ambulance Victoria’s response in 50 locations across the state to help deliver early intervention to cardiac arrests,” Garry said.
Ambulance Victoria Executive Director of Regional Operations, Danielle North, said Victoria’s cardiac survival rates are among the best in the world, thanks to high rates of early intervention.
“The Fire Medical Response program will improve survival rates for people in rural and regional Victoria,” Danielle said.
“Quick intervention with CPR and a defibrillator has the greatest impact on improving a patient’s chances of surviving a cardiac arrest.”
| Submitted by | CFA Media |
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Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations
Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, earlier this morning delivered a Pre-Recorded VIP Address on the second day of the ATxSummit, held in Singapore. Under the theme of “Shaping a Sustainable and Inclusive Digital Future,” the event brings together talented young minds, industry leaders, and key stakeholders dedicated to advancing digital economy and innovation in the region. In his remarks, SG Dr. Kao shared ASEAN’s key initiatives to build a secure, trusted, and resilient digital ecosystem, to propel the region’s economic growth. Download the text version of the remarks here.
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Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Editor’s note: Children are the future of the country and the hope of the Chinese nation. The growth and wellbeing of children always weigh heavily on the mind of President Xi Jinping. As International Children’s Day approaches, China.org.cn revisits President Xi’s remarks on fostering the all-round development of children.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
The UN Security Council holds a meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question, at the UN headquarters in New York, on May 28, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
The interim UN special coordinator for the Middle East peace process warned on Wednesday that the two-state solution is on life support, calling for collective action to revive it.
“The two-state solution is on life support. Reviving it requires collective action,” said Sigrid Kaag. “Peace cannot be a transaction or a partial, temporary arrangement. It needs to be built on international consensus and legitimacy, moving it from managing the conflict to ending it.”
There can be no sustainable peace in the Middle East without a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The region’s future will remain bound to its unresolved past, unless bold political will and decisions break the cycle, she told the Security Council.
Palestinian statehood is a right, not a reward, she said.
The upcoming high-level international conference in June, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, presents a critical opportunity. It must not be another rhetorical exercise. It must launch a path toward ending the occupation and realizing the two-state solution based on international law, UN resolutions and previous agreements, said Kaag. “We need to pivot ourselves from declarations to decisions. We need to implement rather than adopt new texts.”
Humanitarian aid and assistance urgently need to reach all civilians across Gaza. Essential services, livelihoods, and human dignity need to be restored. Forced displacement of civilians must be rejected and prevented. Post-war Palestinian governance and appropriate security arrangements in Gaza are needed. The territorial and political unity of Gaza and the West Bank must be preserved. Hostages need to be unconditionally released, said the UN envoy.
While war-torn Gaza rightly captures the world’s attention, the West Bank is on a dangerous trajectory, she warned.
“Developments are best described as accelerating de facto annexation through settlement expansion, land seizures, and settler violence. If not reversed, this will make the two-state solution physically impossible,” she said.
International engagement and alignment are critical, said Kaag. “We need to act now to reverse the current trajectory. A well-defined, widely supported and timebound political process, accompanied by safeguards and guarantees, is essential.”
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Early voting began on Thursday for South Korea’s snap presidential election scheduled for June 3.
The early voting, which was adopted in 2013 and first applied to the 2014 local election, will be carried out for two days through Friday.
Among 44,391,871 eligible voters, those who wish to cast ballots before the election day will be allowed to vote at 3,568 polling stations across the country from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. local time.
At 9:00 a.m., the early voting turnout was 3.55 percent, surpassing the previous high of 2.19 percent for the parliamentary election in 2024.
It was also higher than the 2022 presidential election’s early voting turnout of 2.14 percent for the same time.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Members of the Chinese Yangqin Art Troupe perform during the 15th anniversary celebration of the Confucius Institute Ljubljana in Ljubljana, Slovenia, on May 28, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
Over 100 distinguished guests from the business, education, and cultural sectors of both China and Slovenia gathered in Ljubljana on Tuesday to mark the 15th anniversary of the Confucius Institute Ljubljana.
Zhao Binghui, charge d’affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Slovenia, spoke highly of the Institute’s contributions to deepening multi-level and multi-field exchanges between China and Slovenia by promoting high-quality Chinese language education and organizing diverse cultural activities over the past 15 years.
The Institute was jointly established by the Shanghai University of International Business and Economics (SUIBE) and the University of Ljubljana in May 2010.
To date, the Institute has established five Confucius Classrooms and 26 teaching centers throughout Slovenia, providing Chinese language education from kindergarten to university level. “Language is a bridge for exchanges and mutual learning of civilizations,” he noted.
Qi Ming, chairman of SUIBE, also emphasized the Institute’s role as a vital bridge between the two universities, helping foster mutual understanding between the Chinese and Slovenian peoples. He noted the partnership has led to diverse collaborations, including faculty and student exchanges, as well as joint research initiatives.
Meanwhile, Danijela Voljc, the Slovenian director of the Institute, said that over 600 Slovenians are currently studying Chinese through its programs. Over the past 15 years, the Institute has trained several thousand more students, bringing Chinese and Slovenian cultures closer together, the director added.
Since 2012, Chinese has been officially included in Slovenia’s national education system.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Reigning men’s champion Carlos Alcaraz of Spain and top-ranked women’s player Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus both clinched second-round victories at the French Open on Wednesday.
Alcaraz, 22, defeated Hungary’s Fabian Marozsan 6-1, 4-6, 6-1, 6-2, and will confront Damir Dzumhur of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the third round.
“I started pretty well. In the first set, I had really high confidence. I think in the second set he started to play much better, very aggressive. He didn’t miss at all, so it was a little bit difficult to deal with his game in the second set, but I’m really happy with how I stayed strong and refreshed in the third set. I started to play better and better, and it has been a good last two sets,” the second seed recalled after the match.
In other men’s singles games, Portugal’s Nuno Borges shocked seventh-seeded Casper Ruud of Norway 2-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-0, while Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti saw off Daniel Elahi Galan of Colombia 6-4, 6-0, 6-4.
Three-time Grand Slam winner Sabalenka eased past Switzerland’s Jil Teichmann 6-3, 6-1 in 79 minutes, and Chinese favorite Zheng Qinwen also seized victory over Emiliana Arango of Colombia in straight sets, 6-2, 6-3.
Earlier this month, 22-year-old Zheng beat Sabalenka for the first time to reach the Italian Open semifinals. The French Open women’s singles draw is such that the two could potentially face off in the quarterfinal.
“Even myself, I got a lot of inspiration from last year. When I am in difficult moments, I always remember to keep fighting. I really love the French crowd. I would like to play more matches here,” said 2024 Olympic champion Zheng.
In women’s doubles, tenth-seeded Jiang Xinyu of China and Wu Fang-hsien of Chinese Taipei advanced into the second round after beating Camila Osorio of Colombia and America’s Alycia Parks 6-4, 6-1. Fellow Chinese players Xu Yifan, Zhang Shuai and Guo Hanyu all bowed out in the first round with their respective partners.
China’s Bu Yunchaokete and Argentina’s Camilo Ugo Carabelli failed to reach the men’s doubles second round, after losing to India’s N. Sriram Balaji and Miguel Reyes-Varela of Mexico 6-2, 6-1.
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
A U.S. trade court blocked President Donald Trump’s tariffs from going into effect in a sweeping ruling on Wednesday that found the president overstepped his authority by imposing across-the-board duties on imports from U.S. trading partners.
The Court of International Trade said the U.S. Constitution gives Congress exclusive authority to regulate commerce with other countries that is not overridden by the president’s emergency powers to safeguard the U.S. economy.
“The court does not pass upon the wisdom or likely effectiveness of the President’s use of tariffs as leverage,” a three-judge panel said in the decision to issue a permanent injunction on the blanket tariff orders issued by Trump since January. “That use is impermissible not because it is unwise or ineffective, but because [federal law] does not allow it.”
The judges also ordered the Trump administration to issue new orders reflecting the permanent injunction within 10 days. The Trump administration minutes later filed a notice of appeal and questioned the authority of the court.
The court invalidated with immediate effect all of Trump’s orders on tariffs since January that were rooted in the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), a law meant to address “unusual and extraordinary” threats during a national emergency.
The court was not asked to address some industry-specific tariffs Trump has issued on automobiles, steel and aluminum, using a different statute.
The decisions of the Manhattan-based Court of International Trade, which hears disputes involving international trade and customs laws, can be appealed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington, D.C., and ultimately the U.S. Supreme Court.
TRADE TURMOIL
Trump has made charging U.S. importers tariffs on goods from foreign countries the central policy of his ongoing trade wars, which have severely disrupted global trade flows and roiled financial markets.
Companies of all sizes have been whipsawed by Trump’s swift imposition of tariffs and sudden reversals as they seek to manage supply chains, production, staffing and prices.
A White House spokesperson on Wednesday said U.S. trade deficits with other countries constituted “a national emergency that has decimated American communities, left our workers behind, and weakened our defense industrial base – facts that the court did not dispute.”
“It is not for unelected judges to decide how to properly address a national emergency,” Kush Desai, the spokesperson, said in a statement.
Financial markets cheered the ruling. The U.S. dollar rallied following the court’s order, surging against currencies such as the euro, yen and the Swiss franc in particular. Wall Street futures rose and equities across Asia also rose.
The ruling, if it stands, blows a giant hole through Trump’s strategy to use steep tariffs to wring concessions from trading partners. It creates deep uncertainty around multiple simultaneous negotiations with the European Union, China and many other countries.
Trump has promised Americans that the tariffs would draw manufacturing jobs back to U.S. shores and shrink a $1.2 trillion U.S. goods trade deficit, which were among his central campaign promises.
Without the instant leverage provided by tariffs of 10% to 54% or higher, the Trump administration would have to find new forms of leverage or take a slower approach to negotiations with trading partners.
BUSINESSES HURTING
The ruling came in a pair of lawsuits, one filed by the nonpartisan Liberty Justice Center on behalf of five small U.S. businesses that import goods from countries targeted by the duties and the other by 12 U.S. states.
The companies, which range from a New York wine and spirits importer to a Virginia-based maker of educational kits and musical instruments, have said the tariffs will hurt their ability to do business.
“There is no question here of narrowly tailored relief; if the challenged Tariff Orders are unlawful as to Plaintiffs they are unlawful as to all,” the judges wrote in their decision.
At least five other legal challenges to the tariffs are pending.
Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield, a Democrat whose office is leading the states’ lawsuit, called Trump’s tariffs unlawful, reckless and economically devastating.
“This ruling reaffirms that our laws matter, and that trade decisions can’t be made on the president’s whim,” Rayfield said in a statement.
Trump has claimed broad authority to set tariffs under IEEPA. The law has historically been used to impose sanctions on enemies of the U.S. or freeze their assets. Trump is the first U.S. president to use it to impose tariffs.
The Justice Department has said the lawsuits should be dismissed because the plaintiffs have not been harmed by tariffs that they have not yet paid, and because only Congress, not private businesses, can challenge a national emergency declared by the president under IEEPA.
In imposing the tariffs in early April, Trump called the trade deficit a national emergency that justified his 10% across-the-board tariff on all imports, with higher rates for countries with which the United States has the largest trade deficits, particularly China.
Many of those country-specific tariffs were paused a week later. The Trump administration on May 12 said it was also temporarily reducing the steepest tariffs on China while working on a longer-term trade deal. Both countries agreed to cut tariffs on each other for at least 90 days.
(Reuters)
Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua has quality checked and approved the 10 cent coin with the effigy of King Charles III, King of New Zealand (KCIII), for production and New Zealanders can expect to see it in their change around 2027.