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Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: From pups to pros: New patrol and detector police dogs graduate today

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police Commissioner Richard Chambers congratulated five patrol handlers and their dogs and one detector dog team at the Dog Training Centre (DTC) in Trentham today. 

    The teams graduated and paraded out in number one uniforms and shiny shoes in front of whānau, friends and work colleagues alongside executives from the New Zealand Police.

    Commissioner Chambers congratulated the newly trained dog teams, saying they would offer a valuable service on the front line.

    “It is fantastic to see these six dog teams graduate today and head back out to districts. They will have an exciting career – our dog teams regularly deploy in tough situations and are remarkable at what they do.”

    He also thanked the DTC staff. “You continue to produce the best handlers and teams that our organisation and country could hope for.”

    Christchurch, Hawke’s Bay, Timaru, and Auckland welcome the new frontline patrol dogs and Wellington District acquires the new explosives detector dog.

    Inspector Todd Southall, National Coordinator Police Dogs, says “Congratulations to all our graduating dog handlers.

    “These frontline patrol dogs are incredible and work alongside our officers doing some of the most dangerous jobs in police.

    Our amazing detector dogs are trained to detect drugs, firearms, cash, and explosives. Both our front line and detector dogs are worth their weight in gold.

    It’s a proud day for all handlers, both experienced and new when they graduate. This ceremony marks the end of a demanding few weeks training to become an operational team. It takes patience and perseverance to complete and pass,” says Todd.

    “I wish the teams all the very best as they begin their operational duties in their districts.”

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Money Market Operations as on May 28, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India
    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)
      Volume
    (One Leg)    		 Weighted
    Average Rate    		 Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 5,93,184.29 5.71 3.01-6.00
         I. Call Money 15,980.96 5.80 4.85-5.85
         II. Triparty Repo 4,02,610.35 5.71 5.65-5.85
         III. Market Repo 1,73,035.98 5.71 3.01-5.90
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 1,557.00 5.89 5.85-6.00
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 198.08 5.69 5.25-5.85
         II. Term Money@@ 997.00 – 5.80-6.15
         III. Triparty Repo 9,241.00 5.84 5.76-5.90
         IV. Market Repo 0.00 – –
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo Wed, 28/05/2025 1 Thu, 29/05/2025 3,843.00 6.01
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (III) Long Term Operations^          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Wed, 28/05/2025 1 Thu, 29/05/2025 606.00 6.25
    4. SDFΔ# Wed, 28/05/2025 1 Thu, 29/05/2025 2,29,136.00 5.75
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -2,24,687.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (III) Long Term Operations^          
         (a) Repo Thu, 17/04/2025 43 Fri, 30/05/2025 25,731.00 6.01
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF#          
    4. SDFΔ#          
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       7,622.73  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     33,353.73  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -1,91,333.27  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on May 28, 2025 9,32,078.85  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending May 30, 2025 9,48,817.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ May 28, 2025 3,843.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on May 02, 2025 2,34,873.00  
    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).
    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.
    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.
    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.
    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.
    & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020.
    Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022.
    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.
    ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015.
    # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023.
    ^ As per the Press Release No. 2025-2026/91 dated April 11, 2025.
    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    
    Press Release: 2025-2026/425

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: 30 years ago Australia confronted its Stolen Generation past – then the Howard government blew it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anne Maree Payne, Senior Research Fellow, Indigenous Land & Justice Research Group, UNSW Sydney

    May 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the national inquiry into the forcible removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families.

    Conducted by the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, the inquiry’s final report was called Bringing Them Home. It demonstrated the extent and trauma of First Nations child removal practices across Australia over more than a century.

    Our archival research paints a dramatic picture of how the Howard government set out to minimise the impact of the report, despite the genuine outpouring of national grief.

    National reckoning

    The 1990s in Australia was marked by an unprecedented national focus on the impact of colonisation on Indigenous Australians. This was part of a global trend using truth-seeking models to examine contemporary and historical injustices.

    The decade included a number of landmark events:

    The establishment of a human rights inquiry investigating the Stolen Generations in 1995 promised a reckoning with this largely unknown history.

    Government resistance

    However, the election of the Howard government in 1996 had an immediate effect on the nation’s trajectory towards “coming to terms” with its past.

    After some early resistance, cabinet eventually agreed to make a whole-of-government submission, broadly outlining its Indigenous affairs priority:

    to address current disadvantage in health, housing, employment and education.

    It stressed compensation for Indigenous child removal was

    inappropriate and unacceptable.

    The Bringing Them Home report contained stories and a history that shocked many Australians. Nonetheless, then Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, John Herron argued in 2000 the inquiry was deeply flawed, and

    there was never a ‘generation’ of stolen children.

    No apology

    The government tried to discredit the final 1997 report, including its core finding the removal of Aboriginal children constituted genocide.

    Its formal response rejected the key recommendations of a commonwealth apology and compensation for members of the Stolen Generations.

    However, the government was willing to act on three areas that presented “opportunities for a positive response”:

    • access to records
    • reunion assistance
    • mental health strategies.

    Several of the report’s recommendations were designed to promote self-determination and establish minimum national standards in Indigenous child welfare, adoption and juvenile justice.

    One tactic employed by the Howard government was to push responsibility for implementing the recommendations onto the states and non-government organisations, such as churches, which had been involved in child removal.

    Therefore, a national legislative response was not forthcoming, with the government arguing this would represent a

    significant intrusion by the Commonwealth in state and territory responsibilities.

    Family reunion

    Herron had ministerial oversight of the government’s response to the report. The prime minister set the tone, saying it would be done in a “practical and realistic way”.

    Herron recommended to cabinet family reunion and counselling services should form the overarching theme of the government’s response. This focus left the broader systemic issues identified in Bringing Them Home unaddressed.

    While acknowledging “some of the disadvantages suffered by Indigenous people can be attributed to policies of child removal”, the background paper accompanying Herron’s cabinet submission also outlined some of the government’s early criticisms of the report, describing it as

    very emotive, and focused only on one view of the separation process.

    Partial response

    The government’s response package was initially costed at A$54 million over four years. It included:

    • an oral history project to provide some form of acknowledgement
    • funding for indexing of archival records
    • enhanced family reunion services
    • Indigenous mental health workers.

    These measures undoubtedly addressed real needs identified in Bringing Them Home. However, they were a partial response to the broad-ranging findings of the report.

    Herron argued facilitating family reunion was the “most pressing” issue identified by the inquiry, which had indeed noted that

    assisting family reunions is the most significant and urgent need of separated families.

    But it is an oversimplification to single out this issue as “the most pressing”.

    ATSIC was unequivocal in its feedback, saying the response would “severely disappoint Indigenous people”. It accused the government of not giving the report “serious attention”.

    Herron insisted the government had “listened to Indigenous people”. However, we were unable to identify any archival evidence of consultation with Indigenous communities in formulating the response package.

    Legacy

    The Healing Foundation commissioned a recent report on the unfinished business of Bringing Them Home. It identified the lack of a whole-of-government policy response that centred on the needs and rights of Stolen Generations survivors and descendants, as a key failing.

    This is unsurprising given the approach by the Howard government was carefully designed to limit the impact of Bringing Them Home.

    Despite this, the inquiry achieved a significant legacy. This includes greater public awareness of the Stolen Generations, apologies from all Australian parliaments, and the establishment of compensation schemes, now in place in most Australian states and territories.

    This was despite the Howard government’s sustained rejection of such measures 30 years ago when the nation was first seeking to come to terms with the wrongs of the past.

    .

    Anne Maree Payne received seed funding from the School of Humanities & Languages, UNSW Sydney, to undertake the archival research on which this article is based.

    Heidi Norman receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. 30 years ago Australia confronted its Stolen Generation past – then the Howard government blew it – https://theconversation.com/30-years-ago-australia-confronted-its-stolen-generation-past-then-the-howard-government-blew-it-257447

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • Union Home Minister Amit Shah to arrive in Jammu today, first visit after Operation Sindoor

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Home Minister Amit Shah is arriving in Jammu on Thursday evening for a two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, the first after Operation Sindoor. During his visit, Amit Shah will address the BSF jawans at their Unit Headquarters at Khanetar and meet the families affected by Pakistan shelling at Dak Bungalow in Poonch on May 30.

    He will also distribute appointment letters to the next of kin of those killed in the shelling. Officials said the Union Home Minister will visit religious places targeted by Pakistani cross-border shelling.

    He will reach here in the evening and will hold a high-level review of the security situation with Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha and top officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the army, paramilitary forces, police, intelligence agencies and civil administration.

    The situation during ongoing Operation Sindoor, besides the security scenario, including anti-terror operations and anti-infiltration grid, will also come up for high-level review at the meeting. Amarnath Yatra arrangements will also figure prominently during the security review meeting.

    On Friday, Amit Shah will leave for the border district of Poonch where he is scheduled to address the BSF jawans as well as civilians badly affected by Pakistan shelling on the intervening night of May 7 and 8 soon after Indian Armed Forces targeted nine terror infrastructures deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK).

    Amit Shah will address the civilians affected by Pakistan’s shelling at Poonch Dak Bungalow and the BSF soldiers at their Unit Headquarters at Khanetar, about nine kilometres from Poonch town.

    Thirteen civilians, including four children, two of them siblings, were killed by Pakistan’s shelling in Poonch district. In retaliation for Indian armed forces carrying out precision-guided targeted strikes on terror infrastructure, the Pakistan Army targeted civilian facilities in Poonch, Rajouri, Baramulla, Kupwara and Bandipora districts.

    Indian response was promoted by the April 22 terror attack in Baisaran meadow of Pahalgam in which 26 civilians, including 25 tourists and a local, were killed after segregating them on the basis of religion. (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker, Kim Joint Statement on Emil Bove’s Nomination to Third Circuit Court of Appeals

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    NEWARK, N.J. –– Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Andy Kim (D-NJ) issued the following statement:

    “Emil Bove’s nomination to the Third Circuit Court of Appeals is deeply troubling. It is vital that the federal judiciary in New Jersey be committed to upholding the ideals of independence and objectivity. On this measure, Emil Bove has fallen short, repeatedly engaging in conduct as a top advisor in Trump’s administration that undermines his credibility as an objective jurist, including purging career prosecutors and attacking those who worked on January 6th investigations, firing FBI officials who were not adequately loyal to President Trump, and directing the dismissal of the federal government’s case against Mayor Eric Adams to advance the President’s mass deportation agenda. Judges must be committed to upholding the rule of law, due process, and fairness. Emil Bove’s actions have compromised our faith that he can be this.

    “Traditionally, selecting circuit court nominees is a collaborative process between the Senate and the White House. In this case, that tradition was cast aside. We had hoped to find a pick that would inspire broad-based confidence and support, but this is a deeply polarizing choice. The people of New Jersey deserve a federal judge that will observe judicial independence and work to preserve and secure justice for all. Based on his record, Emil Bove will not do that.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: Missing woman located

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police can advise a woman missing in central Auckland has been located.

    The 60-year-old had gone missing this morning, and has since been located in the Grafton area.

    She is safe.

    Police thank the public for sharing our appeal today.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Chinese Culture Festival 2025 to stage Henan Yuediao opera plays for first time in Hong Kong in June (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Chinese Culture Festival (CCF) 2025, organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), will stage Henan Yuediao opera, a regional operatic genre rarely seen by Hong Kong audiences, for the first time in late June. Shen Xiaomei, currently the leading exponent of the Yuediao opera, will lead a group of outstanding artists from the Henan Provincial Yue Diao Art Protection and Inheritance Center to Hong Kong to perform the classic plays “Jiang Wei Surrenders” and “Li Tianbao Gets Married”, showcasing the unique and traditional artistic charm of Yuediao opera with the best line-up of the troupe. This programme is also one of the 13th Chinese Opera Festival (COF) and the Hong Kong Intangible Cultural Heritage Month 2025 events.

         Henan Yuediao is one of the three major Chinese opera genres in Henan Province. With a history of more than 300 years, it was inscribed onto the First National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2006. Known for its distinctive vocal styles and intricate musicality, Yuediao opera is celebrated for possessing the rich artistic charm of “nine vocal tones, 18 variations, and 72 ending utterances”. The Shen School of Henan Yuediao has gained acclaim for its “Three Kingdoms” repertory, and Shen Fengmei, the founder of the Shen School, was famous for her unique portrayal of Zhuge Liang in female “xusheng” (bearded male) roles. —————————————————–
    Date and time: June 27 (Friday), 7.30pm———————————————————
    Date and time: June 28 (Saturday), 7.30pm

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ombudsman probes enhanced management of countryside ancillary tourist facilities to pursue “tourism is everywhere” (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Ombudsman probes enhanced management of countryside ancillary tourist facilities to pursue “tourism is everywhere” (with photo) 
         The Ombudsman, Mr Jack Chan, today (May 29) announced the launch of a direct investigation operation to examine the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government’s management of countryside ancillary tourist facilities to align with its efforts to develop green tourism and the pursuit of the ideas of “tourism is everywhere” and “sightseeing all over Hong Kong”.
     
         In recent years, the Government has actively promoted green tourism to attract visitors from around the world to explore Hong Kong’s natural landscapes. Some hiking routes, such as Dragon’s Back, have been hailed by international media as the best in the city. Country parks and ancillary facilities, including hiking trails, toilets, rubbish bins, emergency distress facilities, drinking water stations, and signage, are primarily managed and maintained by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD), while the Civil Engineering and Development Department and the Home Affairs Department are also engaged in related work. In addition, the AFCD, in collaboration with the Tourism Commission, has implemented the Enhancement of Hiking Trails programme since 2018 to improve the ancillary facilities of hiking trails in country parks, which are popular with and appealing to tourists.
     
         However, the Office has noted from media reports the relevant departments’ failure to properly manage and maintain ancillary tourist facilities in countryside areas.  Issues include inadequate toilets and poor hygiene conditions, and scattered and rarely updated information on transportation and location of toilets and water filling stations in country parks. Moreover, there have been incidents where damaged hiking trails remained unrepaired and neglected, and fallen trees were unremoved for months after typhoons, extremely heavy rain or landslides, posing potential risks to hikers and visitors. Furthermore, the Office has from time to time received complaints about the slow progress of countryside facility maintenance and insufficient supporting resources, such as delays in rain shelter repairs and insufficient publicity for visitor centres.
     
         Mr Chan said, “Proper management of countryside ancillary tourist facilities not only helps protect the safety of hikers and visitors but also enhances the outdoor experience for members of the public and tourists, thereby strengthening Hong Kong’s appeal as a green tourism hotspot. I have noticed that, for example, during the recent Labour Day Golden Week with many people and tourists travelling to the countryside to enjoy the beautiful mountains and coastal scenery of country parks, problems such as garbage accumulation and traffic congestion emerged. I consider it essential to examine how to improve the ancillary facilities in the countryside, so as to ensure that all these facilities function effectively and are maintained in safe and good condition, and information for visitors is accurate and clear. In this light, I have decided to launch a direct investigation operation to examine the work of the AFCD and other relevant departments on the management and maintenance of countryside ancillary tourist facilities, the dissemination of information on hiking activities and countryside facilities, particularly safety-related information for hikers, as well as the division of responsibilities and co-ordination among different departments regarding the management and maintenance of relevant facilities. Where necessary, pertinent recommendations will be made for improvement.”
     
         The Ombudsman welcomes views from members of the public on this topic. Written submissions should reach the Office of The Ombudsman by June 29, 2025:
     
    Address: 30/F, China Merchants Tower, Shun Tak Centre
                  168–200 Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong
    Fax:        2882 8149
    Email:     di483@ombudsman.hk
    Issued at HKT 11:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hospital Authority announces general out-patient clinic service arrangements on Tuen Ng Festival

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Region   2957 5186 3157 0965
    Tai Po Jockey Club General Out-patient Clinic G/F, 37 Ting Kok Road, Tai Po 2664 2039 3157 0906
    Tseung Kwan O (Po Ning Road) General Out-patient Clinic G/F, 28 Po Ning Road, Tseung Kwan O 2191 1083 3157 0660
    Tuen Mun Clinic 11 Tsing Yin Street, San Hui, Tuen Mun, N T 2452 9111 3543 0886
    Yuen Long Jockey Club Health Centre 269 Castle Peak Road, Yuen Long 2443 8511 3543 5007

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Beyer Statement On U.S. Court of International Trade Ruling Striking Down Key Trump Tariffs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Don Beyer (D-VA)

    Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA), who serves on the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade and chairs the New Democrat Coalition’s Trade Task Force, issued the following statement on a ruling by the U.S. Court of International Trade vacating and permanently enjoining Donald Trump’s across-the-board tariffs on nearly every country in the world, including his “Liberation Day” tariffs and separate tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China:

    “This ruling is a major victory for the American people, who have spent months under threat of a stupid, self-imposed economic disaster thanks to Donald Trump’s trade war. Trump’s tariffs have already raised costs on Americans, strained our alliances, hurt our credibility, and threatened the global economy. They’ve driven uncertainty to a peak, hurt our small businesses, and greatly raised the danger of a recession.

    “The U.S. Court of International Trade agreed with what I and others have said for months: Trump was clearly abusing emergency authorities in ways not authorized by Congress to impose damaging tariffs on other countries, with obviously pretextual excuses. Abuse of power has been the most consistent theme of Trump’s presidency, including power grabs on immigration, elections, and the structure of the government itself, which are clearly illegal and unconstitutional. Such is the case here.

    “It is important to note that while Trump’s broadest tariffs, which he imposed using authorities under the International Economic Emergency Powers Act, were just blocked by the Court, but his sector-based tariffs on steel, aluminum, autos, and auto parts are not affected by this ruling and remain in place. Trump has threatened additional tariffs under this authority, known as Section 232, on semiconductor chips, copper, and pharmaceuticals, and he clearly is intent on abusing this power as well. My bill, the Congressional Trade Authority Act, would prevent Trump from abusing this provision, return trade authority to Congress, where it belongs, and stop Trump’s trade war from doing further harm to the United States and the world. Congress should pass it.”

    Beyer is the sponsor of the Congressional Trade Authority Act, which would rein in presidential abuses of authorities under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, and the co-lead, with Rep. Suzan DelBene, of legislation to end abuses of International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) tariff authorities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: ORGANON BIOTHERAPEUTICS SHAREHOLDER ALERT: CLAIMSFILER REMINDS INVESTORS WITH LOSSES IN EXCESS OF $100,000 of Lead Plaintiff Deadline in Class Action Lawsuit Against Organon & Co. – OGN

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW ORLEANS, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until July 22, 2025 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Organon & Co. (NYSE: OGN), if they purchased the Company’s securities between October 31, 2024 and April 30, 2025, inclusive (the “Class Period”). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey.

    Get Help

    Organon investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nyse-ogn/ or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options.

    About the Lawsuit

    Organon and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.

    On March 10, 2025, pre-market, the Company announced its financial results for the first quarter of 2025, disclosing, among other things, that management had reset the Company’s dividend payout, from $0.28 to $0.02, contradicting its prior statements assuring investors that the regular quarterly dividend was a number one priority and that the Company was committed to its capital allocation strategy through the aforementioned dividend. On this news, the price of Organon’s shares fell more than 27%, from a closing market price of $12.93 per share on April 30, 2025, to $9.45 per share on May 1, 2025.

    The case is Hauser V. Organon & Co., et al., No. 25-cv-05322.

    About ClaimsFiler

    ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations.

    To learn more about ClaimsFiler, visit www.claimsfiler.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 29, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 29, 2025.

    Parents of autistic children are stressed. Here’s what they want you to know
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Trevor Mazzucchelli, Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology, Curtin University ErsinTekkol/Shutterstock If you’re a parent or carer of a child who’s autistic, the odds are you’re spinning more plates than the average person. The emotional, physical and logistical demands stack up, often without the kind of support you

    Sexual health info online is crucial for teens. Australia’s new tech codes may threaten their access
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Giselle Woodley, Lecturer and Research Fellow, Edith Cowan University CarlosDavid / Getty Last week, organisations from Australia’s online industries submitted a final draft of new industry codes aimed at protecting children from “age-inappropriate content” to the eSafety commissioner. The commissioner will now decide if the codes are

    Politics with Michelle Grattan: Zoe McKenzie on everything that went wrong and whether a gender quota could help the Liberals
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra The Liberals, still reeling from their crushing 2025 election defeat and following with brief split in the Coalition, have a new frontbench and their eyes turning to the long road of rebuilding. New leader Sussan Ley stresses the importance of

    After a chaotic 6 months, South Koreans will elect a new president – and hope for bold leadership
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – 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

    Samoa parliament to be dissolved in June, election date to come
    By Grace Tinetali-Fiavaai, RNZ Pacific journalist Its official. Samoa’s Parliament will be dissolved next week and the country will have an early return to the polls. The confirmation comes after a dramatic day in Parliament on Tuesday, which saw the government’s budget voted down at its first reading. In a live address today, Prime Minister

    From working class pubs to sold-out stadiums: how darts has become a major international sport
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joshua McLeod, Senior Lecturer in Sport Management, Deakin University Few sports have witnessed a transformation as dramatic as darts in recent years. From its origins as a pub game stereotypically played with cigarette and beer in hand, darts is now serious business. With surging television ratings and

    Sudden arrivals: NZ ambulance crews describe what it’s like when babies are born out of the blue
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Vinuli Withanarachchie, PhD candidate, College of Health, Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa – Massey University WOWstockfootage/Getty Images It doesn’t happen very often, but every now and then expectant mothers don’t quite make it to the delivery suite on time – requiring specialised care from emergency medical services (EMS).

    Why NZ must act against Israel’s ethnic cleansing and genocide
    ANALYSIS: By Ian Powell When I despairingly contemplate the horrors and cruelty that Palestinians in Gaza are being subjected to, I sometimes try to put this in the context of where I live. I live on the Kāpiti Coast in the lower North Island of Aotearoa New Zealand. Geographically it is around the same size

    Knife crime is common but difficult to investigate. Robots can help
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paola A. Magni, Associate Professor of Forensic Science, Murdoch University The following article contains material that some readers might find distressing. Around the world, knives are a popular weapon of choice among criminals. In Australia, for example, they are the most common weapon used in homicides. And

    Can your cat recognise you by scent? New study shows it’s likely
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Julia Henning, PhD Candidate in Feline Behaviour, School of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Adelaide Ever wonder if your cat could pick you out of a line up? New research suggests they could … but maybe not in the way you would expect. Previous research has

    PCOS affects 1 in 8 women worldwide, yet it’s often misunderstood. A name change might help
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Helena Teede, Director of Monash Centre for Health Research Implementation, Monash University LightField Studios/Shutterstock Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects one in eight women globally. However, this complex hormonal condition is under-researched and often misunderstood. This is partly due to its name, which overemphasises “cysts” and the ovaries.

    Behind the wellness industry’s scented oils and soothing music are often underpaid, exploited workers
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rawan Nimri, Lecturer in Tourism and Hospitality, Griffith University Prostock Studio/Shutterstock Wellness tourism is booming. Think yoga retreats in Bali, digital detox weekends in a rainforest, or a break on a luxury island to “find yourself”. It’s no longer just about taking selfies at the beach or

    X-rays have revealed a mysterious cosmic object never before seen in our galaxy
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ziteng Wang, Associate Lecturer, Curtin Institute of Radio Astronomy (CIRA), Curtin University Author provided In a new study published today in Nature, we report the discovery of a new long-period transient – and, for the first time, one that also emits regular bursts of X-rays. Long-period transients

    Antarctica’s sea ice is changing, and so is a vital part of the marine food web that lives within it
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jacqui Stuart, Postdoctoral Researcher in Marine Ecology, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington Jacqui Stuart, VUW, CC BY-NC-ND Antarctica is the world’s great cooling unit. This vital part of Earth’s climate system is largely powered by the annual freeze and melt of millions of square

    The body as landscape: how post-war Japanese dance and theatre shaped performance in Australia
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jonathan W. Marshall, Associate Professor & Postgraduate Research Coordinator, Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, Edith Cowan University “Tamaokoshi (たまおこし-) – Evocation” (2013) by Yumi Umiumare. Performers: Umiumare, Felix Ching Ching Ho, Fina Po, Helen Smith, Willow Conway, Sevastian Peters-Lazaro, Takashi Takiguchi. Photo by Vikk Shayen, reproduced

    View from the Hill: Liberals and Nationals patch things up and announce a shadow ministry
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Two Victorian Liberal women, Jane Hume and Sarah Henderson, have been dumped and a key numbers man has been promoted from the backbench to the shadow cabinet in the new frontbench announced by Coalition leaders Sussan Ley and David Littleproud.

    Green light for gas: North West Shelf gas plant cleared to run until 2070
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Samantha Hepburn, Professor, Deakin Law School, Deakin University Franklin64/Shutterstock In a decision surprising very few people, Australia’s new environment minister Murray Watt has signed off on an extension for the gas plant at Karratha, part of the enormous North West Shelf liquefied natural gas project. The decision

    Nobel laureate Brian Schmidt is ‘scared’ about Australia’s research capacity – this is why
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Brendan Walker-Munro, Senior Lecturer (Law), Southern Cross University On Wednesday, Nobel laureate Brian Schmidt and economics professor Richard Holden gave a joint address to the National Press Club in Canberra. Their key message? Australia isn’t spending enough money on university research. Schmidt wants to ensure Australia can

    There’s a new COVID variant driving up infections. A virologist explains what to know about NB.1.8.1
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lara Herrero, Associate Professor and Research Leader in Virology and Infectious Disease, Griffith University VioletaStoimenova/Getty Images As we enter the colder months in Australia, COVID is making headlines again, this time due to the emergence of a new variant: NB.1.8.1. Last week, the World Health Organization designated

    Papua New Guinea seeks ‘fast track’ advice on resurrecting shortwave radio
    By Don Wiseman, RNZ Pacific senior journalist Papua New Guinea’s state broadcaster NBC wants shortwave radio reintroduced to achieve the government’s goal of 100 percent broadcast coverage by 2030. Last week, the broadcaster hosted a workshop on the reintroduction of shortwave radio transmission, bringing together key government agencies and other stakeholders. NBC had previously a

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Used Car Exports to Belt and Road Countries Continue to Rise

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    CHENGDU, May 29 (Xinhua) — China’s used car exports to countries along the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) continue to grow, with deals worth more than 1 billion yuan (about 139 million U.S. dollars) concluded at a business meeting on used car exports in Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province, on Wednesday.

    The business meeting was attended by about 40 trade organizations and buyers from 10 countries, including Russia, Iran, Vietnam and Nigeria.

    “Everyone at the meeting came here with the obvious intention of buying,” said Huang Ruoyu, a spokesman for the China Automobile Dealers Association, adding that Belt and Road countries, which are currently upgrading their own auto markets, are increasingly looking to China for low-cost supplies.

    In March 2024, China completely lifted restrictions on used car exports, speeding up access to Belt and Road countries where car consumption is growing, said Qiao Fang, deputy director of the Sichuan Provincial Bureau of Commerce.

    According to Qiao Fang, Sichuan Province exported more than 10,000 used cars worth 1.4 billion yuan in the first four months of 2025, up 32 percent from a year earlier. Used car exports have become a new engine for Sichuan’s trade growth, she added.

    The meeting also saw the release of a number of documents and the announcement of the creation of contact centers in six countries, including Russia, Iran, Georgia and others, to ensure the sustainability of global supply chains.

    China began exporting used cars in May 2019. Sichuan Province received approval to do so at the end of 2022. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Eight dead confirmed in southern China flood

    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

    NANNING, May 29 (Xinhua) — Eight residents of south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region who went missing after a mountain torrent on Friday (May 23) have been confirmed dead, local authorities said Thursday.

    The body of the last victim was pulled from the water of a local river at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday. All the victims were identified through DNA testing.

    The disaster hit Sanshe village in Longsheng County early on Friday, leaving eight people missing. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Belarus and Sudan confirm readiness to promote intensification of bilateral relations

    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

    MINSK, May 29 (Xinhua) — First Deputy Foreign Minister of Belarus Sergei Lukashevich held talks with Sudanese Energy and Petroleum Minister Muhyiddin al-Naim Said on Wednesday during a visit of the Sudanese delegation to Minsk, the press service of the Belarusian Foreign Ministry reported on the same day.

    During the meeting, the situation in Sudan, current issues on the international agenda, the state and prospects of Belarusian-Sudanese cooperation, including an assessment of the possibility of resuming the work of the joint intergovernmental commission, were discussed. The Belarusian side confirmed its support for the earliest possible achievement of peace in Sudan and condemned the attacks on the civilian infrastructure of Port Sudan.

    Following the event, the parties confirmed their readiness to promote the intensification of Belarusian-Sudanese relations, including exchanges of delegations at various levels, the development and implementation of joint economic projects. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Ukraine expects “memorandum” from Russia by June 2 – Defense Minister

    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

    KYIV, May 29 /Xinhua/ — Ukraine expects to receive a “memorandum” from Russia with a vision of their steps to cease fire before the bilateral meeting announced for June 2, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said on Facebook on Wednesday.

    “We are not against meetings with the Russians and are waiting for their “memorandum” so that the meeting is not empty and really brings us closer to ending the war. The Russian side has at least four more days before departure to hand us their document for processing,” wrote R. Umerov, who heads the Ukrainian delegation at the talks with Russia.

    The minister also reported that he had already handed over a document reflecting the Ukrainian position to the head of the Russian delegation, Vladimir Medinsky.

    Delegations from Ukraine and Russia held talks in Istanbul on May 16, marking the first meeting between representatives of the two countries since March 2022.

    Earlier on Wednesday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Russia was ready to provide Ukrainian negotiators with its memorandum on the terms of the conflict settlement during direct talks on June 2 in Istanbul. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Keep yourself and others safe on the road this King’s Birthday weekend

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police are urging road users to put safety first this King’s Birthday weekend. Those who don’t should expect to see red and blue lights.

    The number of road deaths so far this year has seen too many families losing loved ones in crashes, says Acting Director of Road Policing, Inspector Peter McKennie.

    “There’s no excuse for anyone to drive dangerously or carelessly, endangering their lives or others regardless of day of the year.

    “So many of the crashes we’ve attended this year have been preventable, and that’s a tragedy. It’s horrific for families, friends, and first responders.

    “Preventing those tragedies is what we’re focused on, especially at long weekends when there are more people on the roads. If you’re breaking the rules on the road, you’ll get our attention and a ticket as well.

    “Extra Police will be patrolling the roads across New Zealand, from highways to back roads, ‘anywhere, anytime’.

    “The four biggest factors in crashes, deaths and serious injuries involve restraints, impairment through the likes of alcohol and drugs, distractions such as cell phones, and speed.

    “Those are four areas we’re targeting because we know it can save lives. A split-second decision can be the difference between life and death.

    “We want everyone travelling on the roads over the weekend to be safe, and to help keep others on the road safe.

    “We’re doing our best, but need people to take greater responsibility on the road.”

    Inspector McKennie urged motorists to take their time, drive to the conditions, and be patient.

    “Just because you’re a good driver, it doesn’t mean the next person is.  Drive in a manner and at a speed that allows you to respond safely to the unexpected.

    If you’re on the road, do everything you can to keep yourself and others safe this long weekend.”

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    Background information

    The official King’s Birthday weekend period covers from 4pm on Friday 30 May to 6am on the Tuesday 3 June.

    The official road toll can be found here.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: National direction changes mark dark day for people and planet

    Source: Green Party

    Today’s sweeping changes to environmental protections paint a damning picture of a government hellbent on profit at all costs, openly allowing more environmentally harmful activities under the guise of progress.

    “Today is a dark day for rivers, lakes, streams, beaches, forests and all who enjoy and rely on these taonga across Aotearoa,” says the Green Party’s Environment Spokesperson, Lan Pham. 

    “Taking freshwater as one example, ‘Te Mana o Te Wai’ offered us a clear legal framework that prioritised the health of our waterways and the health of our communities above corporate greed. 

    “Instead, the actions of this Government will go down in history as the most anti-environment we have ever seen. Councils and communities could be stripped of their ability to control the harmful impacts of industries like forestry, intensive farming, and mining.

    “Further, the Government is making changes to enable more mining on wetlands, significant natural areas, and in places where our most precious indigenous biodiversity is. 

    “The Government has really shown their cards today. It could not be clearer that they are hellbent on pushing our natural environment to the brink, exploiting everything they can for any profit that can be squeezed out of it.

    “If this feels like this is straight out of a deliberate playbook, it’s because it is. The language of ‘re-balancing’, ‘efficiency’, ‘cutting red tape’, and ‘enabling industry’ is often used, but what’s really happening here is a systematic and comprehensive erosion of environmental protections.

    “Truly prosperous economic activity is only possible if our planet is also thriving. We depend on healthy nature and a stable climate for the air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat and the materials for life,” says Lan Pham.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Joint letter to Health and Mental Health Ministers

    Source:

    Joint open letter urging investment to address unmet need for psychosocial support outside the NDISJoint open letter urging investment to address unmet need for psychosocial support outside the NDIS

    On Monday 26 May 2025, Mental Health Australia and all state and territory mental health peak bodies wrote to all Health and Mental Health Ministers encouraging decisive action on investment in psychosocial support outside the NDIS to meet need. The letter calls for Health and Mental Health Ministers, at their upcoming meeting, to:

    • recommend to National Cabinet that it agree a funding envelope for a 50:50 cost share arrangement to increase investment in psychosocial supports over a five-year period to meet need; and
    • commit to a public consultation process to design future psychosocial support arrangements. 

    We know that 493,600 people across Australia are missing out on the psychosocial support they need and deserve. It is now nine months since Australian governments released analysis quantifying this shortfall. We welcomed governments’ commitment to the development of a “robust plan for future psychosocial support arrangements” at the last Health and Mental Health Minister’s meeting, and are now urging action to deliver these arrangements. 

    Governments have the information needed to make wise investments in psychosocial services to achieve good outcomes. Governments have an analysis of unmet need, evidence about what works, existing interjurisdictional governance mechanisms to build on, and existing service infrastructure and commissioning pathways. All we need now is for Governments to commit funding to ensure all people in Australia who need it can access quality psychosocial supports.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Parents of autistic children are stressed. Here’s what they want you to know

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Trevor Mazzucchelli, Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology, Curtin University

    ErsinTekkol/Shutterstock

    If you’re a parent or carer of a child who’s autistic, the odds are you’re spinning more plates than the average person. The emotional, physical and logistical demands stack up, often without the kind of support you need. It can leave you exhausted and wondering if things will ever improve.

    Every child is different, and every day can bring new challenges. Some moments are beautiful. Some are overwhelming. Some end in tears and frustration. Just when you think you’re in a routine that works or made some headway, everything can change again.

    As a clinical psychologist, this is what parents of autistic children tell me. As a parent of an autistic child, I too experience some of these stresses.

    In fact, parents of autistic children have much higher levels of stress than parents of children with other disabilities.

    What is autism?

    Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts with others, and makes sense of the world around them.

    It involves a wide range of traits and abilities. But it often involves difficulties with interacting and communicating socially, such as understanding body language or holding a conversation, as well as patterns of restricted or repetitive behaviour.

    Autism is usually diagnosed in early childhood. While every child’s experience is unique, it can influence their behaviour, learning and daily routines in ways that affect the whole family.

    For parents, the impact is often intense. This is not just about managing meltdowns or navigating therapy waitlists. The stress can affect everything from mental health, relationships, finances and the ability to cope day-to-day.

    It’s an incredibly tough gig for many parents and carers.

    Why the stress?

    Many parents tell me and research confirms that the hardest part isn’t autism itself – it’s everything around it. The long waits for a diagnosis. The out-of-pocket costs to see specialists, or for therapy or educational supports. The endless phone calls and paperwork. Trying to get help, only to hit another wall.

    Funding cuts to programs such as the National Disability Insurance Scheme (or NDIS) have removed crucial supports and added to the pressure.

    Parents often spend extra time coordinating appointments, supporting school engagement, and advocating for their child. That invisible workload can take a toll, especially when combined with social isolation, lack of respite and little time to care for their own wellbeing.

    Chronic stress and burnout are real risks for many parents, especially when the level of support required just isn’t there.

    What can parents and carers do?

    A few approaches can help lighten the load:

    • be kind to yourself, especially on the hard days. Even a short break and some deep breathing to release tension can take the edge off and help you reset. It might not solve everything, but it can give you a small window to regroup and keep going

    • ask for help if you’re struggling. Whether it’s from your GP, a psychologist, a parenting helpline or something else. Reaching out is a strength, not a weakness. Informal help can be just as important, for instance from other parents with similar experiences, who just get it. You can find them in online support groups

    • research shows evidence-based parenting programs can help families of children with disability feel more confident and less stressed. They can also make it easier to manage tough times and strengthen the parent-child bond. The Australian government offers a free, online, self-paced program, which I co-wrote, to help parents cope.

    When it’s tough going, it’s important to take a moment to reset.
    KieferPix/Shutterstock

    How friends, family and schools can help

    Many parents and carers carry a huge emotional load trying to help their autistic child feel supported in educational settings, such as childcare and schools.

    They often become the case manager, counsellor and advocate to make sure their child is included, safe and seen.

    If you’re a friend, family member, or part of the school community, try to understand how challenging this can be. The struggle is often ongoing. Parents and carers aren’t being difficult – they’re doing what they can to give their child their best chance.

    Compassion, a listening ear, or stepping in to help can make a real difference.

    Ongoing support, even small things such as dropping off a meal, helping with school pick-ups, or sending a kind message, can ease the load more than you might realise.

    Information and support for parents of autistic children is available. If this article has raised issues for you, or if you’re concerned about someone you know, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

    Trevor Mazzucchelli is a co-author of Stepping Stones Triple P – Positive Parenting Program and a consultant to Triple P International. The Parenting and Family Support Centre is partly funded by royalties stemming from published resources of the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program, which is developed and owned by The University of Queensland (UQ). Royalties are also distributed to the Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences at UQ and contributory authors of published Triple P resources. Triple P International (TPI) Pty Ltd is a private company licensed by UniQuest Pty Ltd on behalf of UQ, to publish and disseminate Triple P worldwide. Trevor has no share or ownership of TPI, but has received and may in the future receive royalties and/or consultancy fees from TPI. Trevor has a child with autism and accesses support through the National Disability Insurance Scheme. He is also a member of the Parenting and Family Research Alliance (PAFRA), a multidisciplinary research collaboration of experts from leading Australian universities and research centres. The alliance is actively involved in conducting research, communication, and advocacy pertaining to parenting, families, and evidence-based parenting support. PAFRA is supported by the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Children and Families over the Life Course.

    – ref. Parents of autistic children are stressed. Here’s what they want you to know – https://theconversation.com/parents-of-autistic-children-are-stressed-heres-what-they-want-you-to-know-256871

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Department of State Press Briefing – May 29, 2025 – 2:00 PM

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    Spokesperson Tammy Bruce leads the Department Press Briefing at the Department of State, on May 29, 2025.

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
    X: https://x.com/StateDept
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/statedept
    Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/statephotos/
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/StateDept
    Substack: https://statedept.substack.com

    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
    Subscribe to The Week at State e-newsletter: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USSTATEBPA/signup/32562

    State Department website: https://www.state.gov/
    Careers website: https://careers.state.gov/
    White House website: https://www.whitehouse.gov/
    Terms of Use: https://state.gov/tou

    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OE8VwCIloCA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI China: Dragon Boat Festival Cultural Week in Beijing

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

    Editor’s note: From May 26 to June 1, the “Dragon Boat Festival Cultural Week” — hosted by the Chaoyang District Bureau of Culture and Tourism, organized by the Beijing Ceramic Art Museum and co-organized by the Fangcaodi Art Mall — is bringing a vibrant dialogue between tradition and modern life to one of Beijing’s most art-infused commercial hubs. With the Dragon Boat Festival approaching, the event blends ancient customs with contemporary creativity, offering visitors a unique experience rooted in heritage and artistic expression.

    People take part in a traditional herbal sachet-making workshop at the Fangcaodi Art Mall in Beijing, May 26, 2025. Participants of all ages crafted colorful pouches filled with aromatic herbs, continuing a time-honored tradition for health and protection during the Dragon Boat Festival. [Photo by Liu Ziying /China.org.cn]

    1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   11   >  

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Ukraine expects peace ‘memorandum’ from Russia by June 2

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

    Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said Wednesday that his country expects to receive a peace “memorandum” from Russia by the announced meeting on June 2.

    “We are not opposed to further meetings with the Russians and are awaiting their memorandum, so that the meeting won’t be empty and can truly move us closer to ending the war,” Umerov, who is the head of the Ukrainian delegation to the talks with Russia, wrote in a post on Facebook.

    “The Russian side has at least four more days before their departure to provide us with their document for review,” he said.

    Umerov noted that he has already handed over the document which reflects the Ukrainian position to the head of the Russian delegation Vladimir Medinsky.

    Ukrainian and Russian delegations held negotiations in Türkiye’s Istanbul on May 16, which marked the first direct talks between the countries since March 2022.

    Earlier on Wednesday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov announced that the second round of negotiations will be held in Istanbul on June 2, the Interfax-Ukraine news agency reported.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hamas says reached agreement with US envoy over Gaza ceasefire framework

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

    Palestinians wait to receive free food at a food distribution center in the al-Shati refugee camp, west of Gaza City, on May 28, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Hamas said in an official statement on Wednesday that it has reached an agreement with U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff on a general framework for Gaza ceasefire.

    According to Hamas, the framework includes the release of 10 Israeli hostages and several bodies, in exchange for the release of an agreed-upon number of Palestinian prisoners, guaranteed by mediators.

    Hamas said it is awaiting a final response to this framework, adding that “it is making significant efforts to halt the brutal war on the Gaza Strip.”

    The group said the framework “will ensure a permanent ceasefire, a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, the flow of aid, and a professional committee assuming control of the Strip’s affairs immediately after the agreement is announced.”

    A Hamas official, who requested anonymity, said on Monday that Hamas had agreed to a proposal presented by Witkoff for a ceasefire in Gaza.

    However, Witkoff denied that Hamas has accepted his proposal for a ceasefire and hostage release deal, according to the Axios news site.

    Israel has not yet announced its official position on the proposal, while Israeli media outlets have quoted officials as saying that Israel rejects the proposal and will not accept it.

    Israeli conditions for ending war

    Abdel Mohdy Motawe, executive director of the Cairo-based Middle East Forum for Strategic Studies and National Security, said that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu “rejects any idea of ending the war in the Gaza Strip except on certain conditions: Hamas withdrawing from Gaza’s governance, disarming Gaza, and then exiling Hamas leaders” from the Strip.

    “There is an Israeli consensus on these conditions with the U.S. administration, making it unlikely for Netanyahu to stop the war unless the conditions are met, though he might accept a partial deal,” Motawe told Xinhua.

    Mokhtar Ghobashy, secretary-general of the Al-Farabi Center for Studies in Egypt, stressed that the lack of substantial international pressure has enabled Israel to pursue its strategy in Gaza, adding the U.S. pressure on Israel is insufficient.

    “Israel is exploiting the time frame and the regional context to pursue a dangerous, systematic approach for displacing Palestinians,” he said.

    Insuffient aid

    The Israeli military said on Tuesday that two food distribution compounds operated by private U.S. companies had begun functioning in southern Gaza.

    The initiative followed more than 11 weeks of an Israeli blockade preventing humanitarian supplies from reaching the enclave. Limited aid shipments were allowed last week, after UN experts warned that famine is spreading.

    Thousands of Palestinians crowded into a humanitarian aid distribution center in Rafah on Tuesday, triggering chaos and a breakdown of order on the site’s first day of operation under Israeli military oversight.

    The center, established at the Al-Alam roundabout in southern Gaza by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a U.S.-based organization, was intended to deliver food aid to a population facing severe shortages due to Israel’s blockade. But scenes of disorder quickly unfolded as residents overran the facility, seizing food parcels and even dismantling parts of the barbed wire fencing that surrounded the site.

    Jens Laerke, spokesperson for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, said at a press briefing in Geneva on Tuesday that the UN is not involved in the GHF’s operations in Gaza, and added that “it is a distraction from what is actually needed.”

    Laerke said what is truly needed is the reopening of all crossing points into Gaza.

    Israel launched a ground and air offensive in Gaza following the Oct. 7, 2023 attack, in which Hamas-led fighters killed about 1,200 people and took 251 hostages, according to Israeli figures. The ensuing Israeli bombardments have devastated large parts of the enclave, killing at least 54,084 people and wounding 123,308 others, said the health authorities in Gaza on Wednesday.

    Israel halted the entry of goods and supplies into Gaza on March 2, following the expiration of the first phase of a January ceasefire agreement with Hamas. It resumed attacks on Gaza on March 18.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: US trade court blocks Trump from imposing sweeping tariffs

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

    U.S. President Donald Trump attends an event celebrating the Greek Independence Day at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on March 24, 2025. Trump on Monday said that he may “give a lot of countries breaks” on tariffs, as his April 2 deadline to impose “reciprocal tariffs” on U.S. trading partners draws closer. [Photo/Xinhua]

    A U.S. federal court blocked on Wednesday President Donald Trump from imposing sweeping tariffs on imports under an emergency-powers law, according to U.S. media.

    The ruling from a New York-based Court of International Trade came after a number of lawsuits arguing Trump has overstepped his authority on imposing across-the-board duties on imports.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Report: Dubai consolidates status as luxury home purchase destination

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

    This photo taken on Oct. 17, 2024 shows a city view of Dubai, the United Arab Emirates. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Dubai was the world’s busiest market for residential properties priced at US$10 million and above for the second consecutive year, according to a report from global property consultancy Knight Frank. 

    The United Arab Emirates city recorded 435 sales in this price bracket in 2024, almost equaling the number of the same price-range home sales in London and New York combined. A further 111 homes sold for over US$10 million during Q1 this year, the highest number for the same period in history. 

    Shehzad Jamal, a partner at Knight Frank, said, “The super-rich remain laser-focused on purchasing luxury homes in the city, and this unrelenting demand has been a critical driver of Dubai being the world’s busiest US$10 million-plus homes market for the second year running.”

    A record of nearly 170,000 residential sales were made in Dubai in 2024, totaling US$100 billion, and the momentum has continued into 2025, with home sales hitting AED100 billion (US$27 billion) by March 4 – the fastest pace on record. 

    In partnership with market research firm YouGov, Knight Frank carried out a survey of 387 high-net-worth individuals (HNWI) based in India, Saudi Arabia, the U.K. and East Asia, each with an average net worth of US$22 million.

    The survey finds that Saudi HNWIs have the highest average budget for a home purchase in Dubai (US$45.7 million), followed by those from India (US$44.6 million) and the U.K. (US$30 million). Asian HNWIs have the lowest budget among Knight Frank’s survey respondents, averaging US$23 million. 

    As to the target neighborhood for a residential acquisition, Dubai’s property market poster-child Dubai Marina (28%) was once again the top target among HNWIs, with Dubai Hills Estate (24%) and Emirates Hills (23%) in second and third place, respectively.  

    The survey also finds that 61% of the Chinese respondents have interest in property purchase in Dubai, following those from Saudi Arabia (96%) and India (86%).

    Dubai’s overall real estate market continued to expand during 2024, with values and rents climbing to fresh highs and the total value of transactions across all sectors topping US$207 billion, according to the report. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chelsea beat Real Betis to win UEFA Conference League

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

    Chelsea became the first club to win all four major UEFA competitions and the FIFA Club World Cup after defeating Real Betis 4-1 in the UEFA Conference League final on Wednesday.

    The Conference League – UEFA’s third-tier tournament founded in 2021 – was the only European title missing from Chelsea’s collection. The London club previously won the Champions League in 2012 and 2021, the Europa League in 2013 and 2019, and the now-defunct Cup Winners’ Cup in 1971 and 1998. Chelsea also won the Club World Cup in 2022.

    Betis struck early, with Isco splitting the defense in the ninth minute to find Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, who slotted a low left-footed shot past goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen. Manuel Pellegrini’s side nearly doubled the lead five minutes later, but Jorgensen saved Marc Bartra’s close-range effort.

    Chelsea struggled to create chances in the first half but turned the match around after the break. Enzo Fernandez equalized in the 65th minute, heading in a cross from Cole Palmer, who was later named Player of the Match.

    Five minutes later, Palmer danced past a defender on the right wing and cut back for Nicolas Jackson, who finished from close range to give Chelsea the lead.

    Betis failed to recover as Chelsea continued to press. In the 83rd minute, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall led a counterattack and teed up Jadon Sancho, who curled a shot into the far corner to make it 3-1. Moises Caicedo added a fourth in stoppage time with a sweeping strike from the edge of the area.

    “It’s a great feeling [to win a trophy],” said Chelsea captain Reece James. “We knew the game was going to be tough; they made it tough for us in the first half. They got an early goal and it unsettled us. As the game went on, we grew into it.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China builds satellite constellations to enable smart connectivity from space

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

    China Focus: China builds satellite constellations to enable smart connectivity from space

    With four new satellites launched this month to expand the Tianqi constellation, China is accelerating a presence in low-Earth orbit to support its surging demand for smart device connectivity.

    Following SpaceX’s lead, an increasing number of Chinese aerospace firms have begun constructing Starlink-style satellite networks over the past years. Some of these commercial space firms are specifically targeting the development of critical digital infrastructure for IoT (Internet of Things) connectivity.

    Tianqi, a satellite constellation developed and operated by GuoDianGaoKe Technology, has now reached its first phase with 37 satellites in orbit, forming a global network that provides services for smart cities, marine monitoring, emergency communications and environmental monitoring.

    Upon the deployment of these four satellites, the constellation’s revisit time will be shortened to just five minutes, representing a 37.5 percent enhancement in its operational efficiency, which is vital for facilitating real-time data transmission.

    “Tianqi has filled a technological gap in China’s low-orbit IoT satellite field. Its technical systems, performance and terminal indicators have reached internationally leading levels,” said Lyu Qiang, chairman of the Beijing-based firm.

    Tianqi is now exploring the expansion into consumer markets, including smartphones, smart vehicles and wearable devices. The company plans to design and launch additional satellites in its second phase, aimed at enhancing consumer-level applications.

    CAR CONNECTIVITY

    Another commercial satellite constellation project, funded by a leading Chinese automaker, is set to revolutionize intelligent connectivity for road vehicles from space.

    Geely’s Future Mobility Constellation, developed by commercial space subsidiary Geespace, has placed 30 satellites across three orbital planes. The constellation expanded last September with the launch of an additional 10 satellites.

    This deployment enables 90 percent global coverage, making it the first Chinese commercial space enterprise to offer low-orbit satellite communication services to international users.

    The constellation is focusing on scenarios in intelligent driving, smart mobility and consumer electronics, said Wang Yang, founder and CEO of Geespace.

    It has a three-phase plan: 72 satellites for global real-time data communication in Phase One, 264 satellites for direct smartphone connectivity in Phase Two, and 5,676 satellites for global broadband services in Phase Three, according to Wang.

    Supported by the constellation, some Geely’s Zeekr and Galaxy electric vehicles now feature space communication. Users can send and receive messages via satellite when ground networks are disrupted.

    In June last year, Geely’s satellite constellation initiated international commercial operations in parts of the Middle East, and it plans to extend services to North Africa by 2025. This expansion marked a milestone for Chinese commercial space firms on the international stage.

    Industry analysts note that satellite networks are particularly valuable for autonomous driving applications, as they provide reliable connectivity in areas where traditional networks are unavailable.

    According to Grand View Research, the global autonomous driving market is projected to reach 557 billion U.S. dollars by 2030. The Chinese satellite constellation is positioning itself to capture a significant market share by partnering with multiple car manufacturers.

    Geespace has established a state-of-the-art factory in Taizhou, a city in eastern China, leveraging modular design and intelligent manufacturing technologies. This facility is engineered to cut production costs by 45 percent and can produce 1 to 2 satellites per day, with an annual capacity of up to 500 satellites.

    Another rapidly growing economic sector in China is also creating huge opportunities for low-Earth orbit satellite internet, as the increasing number of drones relies on low-altitude intelligent networking.

    China is accelerating the development of low-altitude intelligent networking infrastructure and advancing the research and construction of 5G/5G-A, Beidou navigation, and satellite internet technologies.

    “Low-altitude intelligent networking, as the digital foundation for the low-altitude economy, can ensure the safe operation of low-altitude aircraft,” said Lu Feng, a researcher from a Beijing technology research institute. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner, Kaine, and Colleagues Press Trump Administration on Firings of Constituent Services Liaisons

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) joined 14 of their Senate colleagues in pressing the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) for answers regarding the firing of its constituent services liaisons—civil servants who work with congressional offices to assist constituents currently or previously serving in the federal government.

    In their letter to OPM Acting Director Charles Ezell, the senators raise concern over the lack of information from OPM regarding significant changes to the congressional liaison office, including its possible closure, and highlight how these cuts will harm their ability to assist constituents who are federal workers and their families with human resources-related matters, such as obtaining earned retirement benefits, disability retirement benefits, and survivors benefits.

    “We are writing to express serious concern regarding the recent termination of constituent services liaisons within the Office of Personnel Management’s Congressional, Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs (CLIA) component, the possible closure of CLIA, and the implications these decisions have on the processing and resolution of current and future congressional inquiries on behalf of our constituents across the country. We understand OPM has informed Congressional offices of ‘significant changes’ to CLIA, however, the notice was insufficient as it lacked essential details about the methods, process, and timeline for these changes,” wrote the senators.

    “As you know, CLIA plays a critical role in facilitating communication between OPM and the legislative branch, including responding to inquiries and ensuring that members of Congress can assist constituents experiencing difficulties with OPM-related matters,” they continued.

    “It is essential for the public to have confidence that their elected representatives have oversight of federal agency operations and that inquiries on individual constituent matters to OPM will be treated as seriously and comprehensively as our constituents deserve,” the senators concluded.

    In a recent Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee hearing, Kaine pressed Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. on how massive workforce cuts have negatively impacted constituents’ ability to get questions answered by federal agencies.

    In addition to Warner and Kaine, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Edward Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

    A copy of the letter is available here and below.

    Dear Mr. Ezell,

    We are writing to express serious concern regarding the recent termination of constituent services liaisons within the Office of Personnel Management’s Congressional, Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs (CLIA) component, the possible closure of CLIA, and the implications these decisions have on the processing and resolution of current and future congressional inquiries on behalf of our constituents across the country. We understand OPM has informed Congressional offices of “significant changes” to CLIA, however, the notice was insufficient as it lacked essential details about the methods, process, and timeline for these changes.

    As you know, CLIA plays a critical role in facilitating communication between OPM and the legislative branch, including responding to inquiries and ensuring that members of Congress can assist constituents experiencing difficulties with OPM-related matters. Given this vital role, the termination of CLIA employees and reported closure of CLIA raises several important questions that demand clarification:

    1. Are there plans to eliminate CLIA? If so, how does OPM intend to process current and future congressional inquiries?
    2. There have been reports, including some from our staff members, that some congressional inquiries have been deleted or prematurely closed without resolution, and in some cases, without any communication to our offices whatsoever. Please confirm whether these reports are accurate, and if so, what steps are being taken to ensure that all inquiries are properly addressed and resolved.
    3. How many congressional liaisons remain with CLIA? Will terminated CLIA employees be reassigned within OPM, or will their positions be eliminated? 
    4. Are CLIA employees who opt for deferred resignation deemed permanently ineligible for employment with the federal government? 

    We would appreciate your review and response by June 13, 2025. It is essential for the public to have confidence that their elected representatives have oversight of federal agency operations and that inquiries on individual constituent matters to OPM will be treated as seriously and comprehensively as our constituents deserve.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: SEON Accelerates APAC Growth Amid Rising Demand for Unified Fraud and AML Solutions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas and SINGAPORE, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SEON, a global leader in digital fraud prevention and compliance, today announced rapid growth across the Asia-Pacific region, driven by increasing demand for its unified, real-time fraud and AML solutions.

    New APAC clients such as Salmon Group Ltd, CryptoGaming.com and Forever Network have adopted SEON’s Know Your User (KYU) and Know Your Customer (KYC) capabilities to navigate escalating fraud risks across the region’s complex digital landscape.

    To support this momentum, SEON has expanded its team with technical, sales and support specialists in Singapore and Jakarta, providing clients with localized expertise and faster response times.

    “APAC presents both extraordinary opportunity and operational complexity,” said Tamas Kadar, Co-founder and CEO, SEON. “The mix of advanced digital economies and rapidly growing markets creates a fragmented risk environment, and legacy point solutions can’t keep pace. Our unified platform delivers real-time visibility and protection across the entire customer journey.”

    As digital threats and regulatory requirements grow throughout the region, businesses face mounting pressure to verify identities, manage payment risk and maintain compliance, without compromising user experience. SEON addresses these challenges with an AI-driven platform that combines digital footprint analysis, device intelligence and real-time analytics to detect and prevent fraud proactively.

    “SEON has quickly become one of the most effective and user-friendly fraud detection tools we’ve used to date. Its ability to provide real-time insights, coupled with detailed device tracking and risk scoring, has greatly improved how we identify and respond to suspicious activity,” said Pauline Liu, Compliance Officer, TitanFX. “The platform is user-friendly, making it easy for both new and experienced team members to navigate and act swiftly. SEON has already proven to be a smart and dependable solution for our fraud monitoring needs.”

    “Our regional clients are increasingly prioritizing fraud prevention platforms that can handle APAC’s payment complexity and varied identity verification methods,” said Troy Nyi Nyi, Senior Vice President and GM, SEON. “The iGaming, fintech and retail sectors in particular are seeking solutions that can operate across multiple jurisdictions without requiring separate tools for each market, which is why they’re turning to SEON.”

    SEON will showcase its latest innovations at SiGMA Asia, taking place June 2-4 in Manila (Booth 1082). During the event, Troy Nyi Nyi, Senior Vice President and GM, SEON, will speak on “Beyond Defense: Leveraging Fraud Prevention as a Competitive Edge,” sharing practical insights for iGaming and fintech leaders.

    About SEON
    SEON helps risk teams detect and stop fraud and money laundering while ensuring regulatory compliance. By combining real-time digital footprint analysis, device intelligence and AI-driven rules, SEON empowers over 5,000 businesses globally to prevent threats before they occur. With integrated fraud prevention and AML capabilities, SEON operates from Austin, London, Budapest and Singapore. Learn more at seon.io.

    Media
    Press@seon.io

    The MIL Network –