NewzIntel.com

Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The press secretary of the President of Belarus called the results of the talks in Istanbul a tactical success for the Russian leadership

    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 18 /Xinhua/ — Press secretary of the President of Belarus Natalya Eismont called the results of the talks in Istanbul a tactical success for the Russian leadership. She told TASS on Saturday.

    Commenting on the results of the negotiations between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul, she noted that no other results were expected. “The negotiations, their first round, fortunately took place and had at least some result. In general, we agree with the Americans in assessing the results of this round – this is certainly a tactical success for the Russian leadership so far,” N. Eismont said.

    When asked about Belarus’s readiness to host a new round of negotiations if Russia and Ukraine agree on it, N. Eismont responded as follows:

    “As for the possible organization of the next rounds of negotiations. I will emphasize the main thing: Belarus has never asked for the role of mediator – neither before nor now. This is our principled position. But if in the name of peace among our neighbors, in our brotherly Ukraine, this is necessary and all parties agree with this, we will organize the process in a way that no other country organizes. First of all, because this directly concerns the future of Belarus,” N. Eismont summarized. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Five killed in helicopter collision in Finland

    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

    TALLINN, May 18 (Xinhua) — Two civilian helicopters taking off from Tallinn on Saturday morning collided near Eura airfield in southwestern Finland, killing all five people on board, the Estonian Foreign Ministry confirmed.

    Shortly after 12:30 (09:30 GMT), the Satakunta Province Rescue Service received a report from the road near Eura Airfield that two helicopters had collided in mid-air and crashed to the ground, the Estonian Broadcasting Corporation /ERR/ and the Finnish television channel Yle reported.

    Police said there were five people on board the two four-seat Robinson R44 Raven light helicopters at the time of the collision: two in one helicopter and three in the other.

    At a press conference on Saturday evening, Margus Sarglepp, head of the Estonian Foreign Ministry’s consular assistance department, said there were no survivors. Finnish police are working to identify the dead.

    Several Estonian media outlets reported that Estonian businessmen Oleg Synajalg and Priit Jaagant were among the dead. The names of the other passengers have not yet been released. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Iraqi PM calls for Arab economic integration to boost development

    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

    BAGHDAD, May 18 (Xinhua) — Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani called for economic integration of Arab countries as a means to promote their development here on Saturday at the opening of the 5th Arab Summit for Economic and Social Development.

    According to a statement from his press office, the prime minister noted that “the summit serves as a strategic platform to strengthen partnerships among Arab countries, activate development funds and mechanisms, create new opportunities for women and youth, and ensure the well-being of children.”

    M. al-Sudani proposed the creation of a joint Arab mechanism to assess the effectiveness of development based on economic and social development indicators, the statement said.

    “There is no security without development, and there is no development without genuine Arab economic integration,” the Iraqi prime minister said, expressing hope that the summit would be a “turning point” in the trajectory of Arab development. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Seven killed in house fire in northern Mexico

    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

    MEXICO CITY, May 17 (Xinhua) — Seven people, including five children, were killed early Saturday in a fire at a residential building in the city of Saltillo, northern Mexico’s Coahuila state, local media reported.

    The fire broke out at around 4am /10:00 GMT/ and spread quickly due to flammable materials such as acetone, solvents and paint in the house.

    Authorities identified two women, aged 64 and 28, and five children, aged between five and 15, as victims of the accident. Three others were burned and taken to local hospitals.

    Investigators believe that the possible cause of the fire was contact between a candle and flammable materials. Firefighters, police and ambulance crews arrived at the scene, the flames were successfully extinguished.

    Coahuila state authorities have called on residents to take extra safety precautions when using candles and storing hazardous materials at home. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Syrian authorities announced the unification of armed groups under a single command

    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

    Damascus, May 18 (Xinhua) — Syrian authorities on Saturday evening announced the integration of armed groups into the national defense system.

    In a statement, Murhaf Abu Qasra, the Syrian government’s defence chief, said the move followed months of coordinated efforts to unite Syria’s various armed groups under a centralised command.

    “After the liberation of Syria, we immediately began work to integrate all military units into a single institutional structure,” said M. Abu Kasra. “Today, we are proud to inform our esteemed people that all units are now integrated into the Ministry of Defense.” –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • FDA approves Novavax COVID vaccine with new conditions

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday approved Novavax’s COVID-19 vaccine, but placed additional conditions on individuals who would be able to receive the vaccine.
     
    According to the approval letter, the license restricts the use of the vaccine called Nuvaxovid to individuals aged 65 and older, and those between 12 and 64 who have at least one underlying condition that increases their risk of developing severe illness from COVID.
     
    The letter did not specify what qualified as an underlying condition.
     
    The FDA also deferred submission of pediatric studies from birth to less than 12 years for the application, as pediatric studies had not been completed.
     
    Novavax CEO John Jacobs said the approval was a “significant milestone” that solidifies a path for people to access the vaccine.
     
    The vaccine’s prospects were thrown into doubt after the FDA missed its April 1 target to approve the shot. U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. attributed the delay to the shot’s composition in a CBS interview earlier that month.
     
    Novavax, whose protein-based shot uses an older technology, missed out on the pandemic vaccine windfall – enjoyed by rivals Moderna and Pfizer which make messenger RNA-based vaccines – due to manufacturing issues and regulatory hurdles.
     
    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI China: China sees increase in news conferences and release system

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

    China sees increase in news conferences and release system

    chinadaily.com.cn | May 18, 2025

    China has seen an increase in the number and frequency of news conferences at various levels, supported by a well-structured news release system spanning from central to local governments and enhanced professionalism among spokespersons, scholars and officials said on Saturday.

    More than 100 spokespersons from local and state governments and state-owned enterprises under the central government and scholars gathered in Beijing for the 4th China Spokesperson Forum at Renmin University of China, focusing on improving the spokesperson system and enhancing the effectiveness of news releases.

    Mo Gaoyi, director of the State Council Information Office, said in the era of mobile internet and smart interconnection, the media landscape has met profound changes.

    It is necessary to conduct in-depth research on social concerns and public opinion trends and identify the connecting points with the interests of people to better meet societal expectations, he said.

    Guo Jiakun, spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, stated that in 2024, the ministry held a total of 230 news conferences, with spokespersons answering over 2,500 questions from both Chinese and foreign reporters, which made it the only foreign affairs department in the world to hold a news conference every working day.

    As of Wednesday, major international media coverage of the ministry’s regular press conferences has surged by 69.6 percent this year, reaching over 25,000 articles, Guo added.

    Zhou Qing’an, dean of the School of Journalism and Communication of Tsinghua University, said the news release system in China has gradually matured, and the professionalism of the spokesperson team has continued to improve.

    He highlighted the system’s adaptability to the all-media communication landscape, particularly in embracing proactive initiatives in new areas like social media and artificial intelligence.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 283

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL3

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 283
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    950 PM CDT Sat May 17 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Far Western Arkansas
    Central and Eastern Oklahoma

    * Effective this Saturday night and Sunday morning from 950 PM
    until 400 AM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2
    inches in diameter possible
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible
    A tornado or two possible

    SUMMARY…Mainly elevated thunderstorms should continue to pose a
    threat for large hail this evening into the early overnight hours.
    The largest hailstones may reach up to 1-2 inches in diameter. There
    is also some chance for a cluster of thunderstorms to form over the
    next few hours. If this occurs, then the threat for severe/damaging
    winds would increase as well.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 50
    statute miles north and south of a line from 55 miles northwest of
    Chickasha OK to 5 miles east southeast of Fort Smith AR. For a
    complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
    update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU3).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
    Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
    weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
    warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 279…WW 280…WW
    281…WW 282…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean storm motion vector
    28035.

    …Gleason

    SEL3

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 283
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    950 PM CDT Sat May 17 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Far Western Arkansas
    Central and Eastern Oklahoma

    * Effective this Saturday night and Sunday morning from 950 PM
    until 400 AM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2
    inches in diameter possible
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible
    A tornado or two possible

    SUMMARY…Mainly elevated thunderstorms should continue to pose a
    threat for large hail this evening into the early overnight hours.
    The largest hailstones may reach up to 1-2 inches in diameter. There
    is also some chance for a cluster of thunderstorms to form over the
    next few hours. If this occurs, then the threat for severe/damaging
    winds would increase as well.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 50
    statute miles north and south of a line from 55 miles northwest of
    Chickasha OK to 5 miles east southeast of Fort Smith AR. For a
    complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
    update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU3).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
    Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
    weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
    warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 279…WW 280…WW
    281…WW 282…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean storm motion vector
    28035.

    …Gleason

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW3
    WW 283 SEVERE TSTM AR OK 180250Z – 180900Z
    AXIS..50 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    55NW CHK/CHICKASHA OK/ – 5ESE FSM/FORT SMITH AR/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 45NM N/S /55WNW OKC – 5S FSM/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 550. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 28035.

    LAT…LON 36389866 36039429 34589429 34939866

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU3.

    Watch 283 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Low (20%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (5%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (20%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (30%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (70%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Update 4 and Final: U.S. Coast Guard safely tows Lucky Harvest to Guam

    Source: United States Coast Guard

     

    05/17/2025 10:31 PM EDT

    SANTA RITA, Guam — The U.S. Coast Guard safely towed the 47-foot vessel Lucky Harvest to Hagåtña boat basin arriving shortly after 8 p.m. on May 17, 2025, after it was located on May 16 with the two mariners aboard disabled 125 nautical miles west of Apra Harbor reportedly due to an electrical failure.

    For breaking news follow us on twitter @USCGHawaiiPac

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Body located in search for missing man on Hobart’s Eastern Shore

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Body located in search for missing man on Hobart’s Eastern Shore

    Sunday, 18 May 2025 – 12:39 pm.

    Sadly, police can confirm a body believed to be that of a missing 63 year old Rokeby man was located earlier today.
    Inspector Andrew Keane said that the man’s body was located in a creek just off Droughty Point Road about 9.30am.
    The man was found following an extensive land, air and sea search after the 63-year-old man was reported missing on Hobart’s Eastern Shore on Thursday afternoon.
    “Our thoughts are with the man’s family and loved ones at this tragic time,” Inspector Keane said.
    “Initial investigations suggest that there are no suspicious circumstances however forensic examinations will now take place as is the usual process and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.”
    Inspector Keane thanked members of the Eastern Shore community who helped search for the man and provided valuable information throughout the past three days.
    “Every piece of information provided by members of the community was assessed and was followed up as a matter of priority,” he said.
    “We appreciate the assistance of the local community at this very sad time.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 18, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 18, 2025.

    ‘Cracks are opening up’ in Western complicity over Gaza genocide, says Minto
    Asia Pacific Report About 2000 New Zealand protesters marched through the heart of Auckland city today chanting “no justice, no peace” and many other calls as they demanded an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and an end to the Israeli atrocities in its brutal war on the besieged Palestinian enclave. For more than 73 days, Israel

    Fiji rights coalition slams ‘betrayal’ of West Papua for Indonesian benefits
    By Anish Chand in Suva Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Fiji’s coalition government are “detached from the values that Fijians hold dear”, says the NGO Coalition on Human Rights in Fiji (NGOCHR). The rights coalition has expressed deep concern over Rabuka’s ongoing engagements with Indonesia. “History will judge how we respond as Fijians to this

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi extends congratulations to 34th Arab League Summit

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Xi extends congratulations to 34th Arab League Summit

    Xinhua | May 18, 2025

    Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message on Saturday to Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid, the rotating chairperson of the Council of Heads of the League of Arab States, extending his congratulations on the convening of the 34th Arab League Summit in Baghdad.

    Xi noted that over the past 80 years since its establishment, the League of Arab States has always been committed to promoting unity and self-strengthening of the Arab world, voicing actively the shared concerns of Arab states, and promoting peace, stability and prosperity in the Middle East.

    At present, Xi said, the world is undergoing accelerating changes unseen in a century, and the situation in the Middle East is evolving in a complex way.

    Arab countries’ adherence to independence and autonomy, promotion of development and rejuvenation, and safeguarding of fairness and justice, have played an active role in advancing the influence of the Global South, he said.

    Xi noted that the vigorous development of the relations between China and Arab states over recent years has set an example of unity and cooperation among developing countries.

    Xi said he and Arab leaders agreed to commit efforts to build a China-Arab community with a shared future for the new era at the initial China-Arab States Summit in December 2022, and he believes that the second summit to be held in China in 2026 will mark another significant milestone in the history of China-Arab ties.

    Noting that China and Arab countries have consistently viewed their relationships from the strategic and long-term perspectives, Xi said that looking ahead, China will remain a trustworthy friend and partner for them, standing firmly on the side of the just cause of Arab states.

    China is willing to work with Arab states to deepen mutual political trust, push mutually beneficial cooperation, increase people-to-people and cultural exchanges, join hands on the path towards their each own modernization and build a higher-level China-Arab community with a share future, said the Chinese president.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Belt and Road Initiative builds connectivity, shared future

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

    HANGZHOU, May 17 — Inside an exhibition hall at the Ningbo-Zhoushan Port, the world’s busiest port by cargo throughput, a giant screen pulses with real-time port operations data. A group of visitors could recently be seen watching intently as a digital platform mapped out how smart port technologies were driving efficient management and greener growth.

    “This is precisely the standard a global hub should meet,” said Douglas Jardine Flint, former group chairman of HSBC. What had impressed him, he said, was not just the physical scale of the port but the powerful digital infrastructure behind it. “This reflects an open, forward-looking China,” he added.

    On Thursday, the Advisory Council of the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation held its 2025 session in the city of Ningbo, east China’s Zhejiang Province. A day earlier, advisory council members from Kenya, Egypt, the United Kingdom and beyond visited the world-class deep-water port in Zhejiang.

    The Ningbo-Zhoushan Port is the only port in the world that has handled over 1 billion tonnes of cargo annually for 16 consecutive years. It has more than 200 deep-water berths across 20 port areas stretching 220 kilometers of coastline, with each berth capable of accommodating 10,000-tonne ships.

    The port is a golden hub of the Yangtze River Delta and a vital link connecting China with the Middle East, Africa and Europe under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

    “I once worked as a transportation engineer and was involved in many port projects in Egypt,” said Essam Sharaf, former prime minister of Egypt. “But Ningbo-Zhoushan Port is clearly a more advanced and more important one.”

    In Sharaf’s view, the world economy is increasingly dependent on maritime transportation, and efficient ports are the cornerstone of global trade.

    “You can see the dedicated employees, cutting-edge innovation and advanced science here. No wonder it’s one of the biggest ports in the world,” Erastus J.O. Mwencha, former deputy chairperson of the African Union Commission, said as his gaze swept across the bustling port.

    To Mwencha, the port is more than just a logistics hub — it stands as a symbol of multilateralism.

    “One of the goals of the BRI is to advance global cooperation and achieve mutual benefit,” he said. “Whether it’s ports, highways, regional hubs or air routes, all are key programs of the initiative. These infrastructures don’t just connect locations — they connect development opportunities.”

    Since the BRI was proposed over a decade ago, port cooperation has remained a key field of connectivity.

    China and its partners have worked together to transform critical maritime infrastructure, with projects including the Gwadar Port of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and Greece’s Piraeus Port, which is the largest port in the Mediterranean, as well as Lekki Deep Sea Port, which is the first modern deep seaport in Nigeria.

    The goal is to achieve not just broader trade routes, but shared development. For many of the advisory council members who traveled to Ningbo, witnessing the scale and sophistication of the Ningbo-Zhoushan Port reaffirmed the possibilities of deepened Belt and Road cooperation.

    Sharaf, a long-time observer of international development, called the BRI “one of the most important cooperation platforms in the world today.” It carries, he said, “the development hopes of many nations — and historic significance.”

    Through partnerships and joint projects, the BRI has “created a global web of connectivity, shared planning and common purpose,” Sharaf said. “Under this initiative, we don’t impose things but share the benefits.”

    Mwencha expressed a similar view. “To me, the BRI is itself a port of hope, of progress, of the future,” he said with conviction.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 3 dead, 1 missing after south China flash flood

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

    Three people died and one remains missing after intense rain triggered flash floods in south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, local authorities said on Saturday.

    On Friday and Saturday, torrential downpours hit the county of Longlin, resulting in a flash flood in Yancha Township. This surge of water left four people missing, after a temporary shelter they were staying in on a hillside was swept away.

    Upon receiving a report of this incident on Saturday, local emergency response, public security, fire and health authorities promptly launched search and rescue operations. Three of the missing individuals were later found in a mountain stream gully, with all three declared dead.

    Efforts to locate the remaining missing person are still underway.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese smart education online platform surpasses 164M registered users

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

    This photo taken on May 14, 2025 shows the opening ceremony of the 2025 World Digital Education Conference in Wuhan, central China’s Hubei Province. (Xinhua/Du Zixuan)

    The number of registered users on Smart Education of China, an online platform for public services concerning digital education, had topped 164 million as of April 2025, a white paper on smart education in China showed.

    This platform had recorded over 61.3 billion page views and boasted visitors from more than 220 countries and regions as of last month, according to the white paper issued on Friday at the 2025 World Digital Education Conference, which lasted from Wednesday to Friday in the city of Wuhan, central China’s Hubei Province.

    The white paper revealed that the platform has continued to gather high-quality digital educational resources, including over 110,000 primary and secondary school resources, as well as over 11,300 online courses for vocational education, 31,000 for higher education and over 2,000 for lifelong learning.

    The platform integrates 51 services, such as employment services and examination services, in eight major categories, and features deep integration of AI and education, the white paper said.

    China is building a modern digital education system that is fairer, of higher quality, more intelligent and accessible to all for lifelong learning.

    Smart Education of China was launched in March 2022, and focuses on areas like learning, teaching, school governance and educational innovation — and has become one of the world’s largest repositories of education and teaching resources.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: US museum returns to China ancient silk manuscripts from Warring States period

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

    This photo taken on May 16, 2025 shows China ancient silk manuscripts from the Warring States period at the Chinese Embassy in Washington, D.C., the United States. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art on Friday officially returned the Zidanku Silk Manuscript volumes II and III: Wuxing Ling and Gongshou Zhan from the Warring States period to China’s National Cultural Heritage Administration.

    The handover ceremony took place at the Chinese Embassy in the United States in Washington, D.C.

    The silk manuscripts were unearthed in 1942 from the Zidanku site in Changsha, Hunan Province, and were illegally taken to the United States in 1946. The silk manuscripts are currently the only known silk manuscripts from the Warring States period (475-221 BC).

    Zhu Ye (R), deputy director-general of Office for the Recovery and Restitution of Lost Cultural Property, National Cultural Heritage Administration of China, receives a certificate of transfer from Chase F. Robinson, director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art, during a handover ceremony of the ancient Zidanku Silk Manuscripts from the Warring States period at the Chinese Embassy in the United States in Washington, D.C., on May 16, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The Zidanku Silk Manuscripts are divided into three volumes. The returning texts, Wuxing Ling and Gongshou Zhan, are the second and third volumes, respectively.

    As the only known silk manuscripts from the Warring States period unearthed in China, the Zidanku Silk Manuscripts — over 2,000 years old — are the earliest silk text discovered to date, representing the earliest known example of a classical Chinese book in the true sense. It is of foundational significance for the study of ancient Chinese script and literature, as well as for the history of Chinese scholarship and thought.

    The repatriation of Wuxing Ling and Gongshou Zhan “ensures that these invaluable artifacts can now be fully and rightfully protected and studied in the soil from which they came,” Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism Rao Quan, who is also the head of the National Cultural Heritage Administration, said in a video address.

    The ancient Zidanku Silk Manuscripts from the Warring States period are displayed during a handover ceremony at the Chinese Embassy in the United States in Washington, D.C., on May 16, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    This will allow for a more accurate and comprehensive understanding and interpretation of their heritage value, transforming them into shared academic and civilizational assets for China and the world, said Rao.

    At the handover ceremony, Chinese Ambassador to the United States Xie Feng said that the return is a “cultural milestone” and a “testament” to China-U.S. cooperation in heritage preservation, bringing new vitality to people-to-people exchanges and friendship.

    China and the United States have made “notable progress” in heritage cooperation, with around 600 artifacts sent back to China — including more than 40 pieces since the start of this year, according to the Chinese ambassador.

    The ancient Zidanku Silk Manuscripts from the Warring States period are displayed during a handover ceremony at the Chinese Embassy in the United States in Washington, D.C., on May 16, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    At the ceremony, Chase F. Robinson, director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art, said that the return of the manuscripts “reflects a carefully considered decision,” calling it an example of “mutually beneficial and collegial international collaboration.”

    The return of Wuxing Ling and Gongshou Zhan marks a successful case of proactive recovery of significant lost cultural artifacts. It also serves as a model for the application of the core spirit of dialogue and cooperation outlined in the Qingdao Recommendations, showcasing how research into provenance and transfer history can support the successful repatriation of Chinese cultural artifacts lost overseas.

    These manuscripts will be publicly displayed for the first time in July 2025 at the National Museum of China as part of an exhibition on the repatriation of cultural relics.

    The National Cultural Heritage Administration said it will continue to work toward the early return of Sishi Ling, another volume of the Zidanku silk manuscripts.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese language proficiency competition for university students held in Egypt

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

    The 24th “Chinese Bridge” Chinese proficiency competition for Egyptian university students concluded Saturday in the Egyptian capital Cairo.

    The competition, hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Egypt and organized by the Cairo-based Chinese Bridge Club, consisted of three parts: a keynote speech, a knowledge quiz, and a talent show.

    Twelve finalists advanced from a pool of 30 contestants representing 24 Egyptian universities in the preliminary rounds. The participants demonstrated strong proficiency in the Chinese language and extensive understanding of China’s national conditions.

    Two students from Cairo University, Ola Sherief and Youssef Ehab, won the grand prize and the first prize respectively.

    The grand prizer Sherief, a student majoring in Chinese translation, said that she likes to learn Chinese and understand Chinese culture through a variety of Chinese film and television works and social media platforms in her spare time.

    “I hope to use Chinese as a bridge to contribute to the mutual understanding and cultural exchanges between Chinese and Egyptian youth,” Sherief told Xinhua.

    “We welcome more Egyptian youth to visit China and contribute to promoting cultural exchanges and people-to-people exchanges between China and Egypt, promoting mutual learning and mutual benefit among the world’s diverse civilizations, and building a community with a shared future for mankind,” Liu Jianqing, deputy director-general of China’s Center for Language Education and Cooperation, said at the award ceremony.

    Egypt has opened 32 Chinese majors across 30 universities, and 21 public middle schools have introduced Chinese as an elective subject for a second foreign language.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: UK economy beats expectations in Q1, but challenges loom ahead

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

    People prepare to leave after watching the military procession held in London, Britain, on May 5, 2025.  (Xinhua/Li Ying)

    The UK economy in the first quarter of 2025 has exceeded market expectations with GDP rising by 0.7 percent quarter on quarter, showed data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) on Thursday.

    Earlier figures indicated stagnation in January and a 0.5-percent increase in February, and anticipated zero growth in March. However, the latest data revealed a 0.2-percent rise in March, lifting the overall quarterly result.

    The service sector, the primary engine of growth, recorded a 0.7-percent increase, rebounding from just 0.1 percent in the final quarter of 2024, with wholesale, retail, transport and communications services making notable contributions.

    Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium, said that falling shop price indices have been good news for UK households and that declining food prices and fierce competition among retailers helped bring down overall prices, supporting the continued growth of the services sector in the first quarter.

    British manufacturing also surprised markets in the first quarter of 2025, ending three consecutive quarters of decline. According to the ONS, the rebound was largely driven by growth in the automotive and machinery sectors, with machinery manufacturing up 3.8 percent quarter on quarter and transport equipment production rising 2.7 percent. Analysts noted that a surge in output in February was likely due to firms rushing to ship goods ahead of new U.S. tariffs.

    The construction sector, however, remained stagnant, showing no growth compared to the previous quarter and even hinting at a potential contraction.

    The stronger-than-expected economic growth in the first quarter of 2025 has eased pressure on the UK government. Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said the results reflected the strength and potential of the UK economy, yet acknowledged that there is still much work to be done.

    This growth, however, was recorded before new U.S. tariffs on UK goods took effect, the impact of which will become evident in the second quarter. Domestically, higher National Insurance rates, increases in the minimum wage and price hikes in some social services have prompted industry groups and research institutions to caution that the first quarter’s performance may be short-lived. The 0.2-percent GDP growth in March was already a noticeable slowdown from February’s 0.5 percent, suggesting tougher challenges ahead.

    Stuart Morrison, research director at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), noted that the 0.7-percent growth exceeded expectations, driven by strong performances in services and manufacturing. However, he cautioned that the impact of higher National Insurance and global trade tensions has yet to surface in the data, warning that the real challenges are still to come.

    Ben Jones, an economist at the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), said the unexpected growth in March was largely a rebound from February, but the strong GDP growth in the first quarter is likely a temporary phenomenon. He warned that with employment costs set to rise significantly following the autumn budget, UK businesses remain cautious about hiring and investment, and additionally, global economic uncertainty continues to threaten the UK’s recovery.

    Several economic research institutions have recently lowered their UK growth forecasts for 2025. Earlier this month, the Bank of England projected that the UK economy would grow by only 1 percent this year.

    Given this backdrop, some UK research institutions have pointed out that maintaining and boosting economic growth will require stronger ties with the EU, positioning it as a key trading partner. The two sides scheduled a summit for May 19 to address several trade management issues, and institutions urged the UK government to take the opportunity to strengthen relations.

    Noting that the ripple effects of U.S. tariffs are still reverberating through the global trade system and prompting responses from various countries, BCC Director General Shevaun Haviland said Britain and the EU must send a clear signal that open and fair trade is in both sides’ best interests. She stressed that the upcoming summit must go beyond empty talk and clearly demonstrate a genuine commitment to improving trade relations.

    Meanwhile, the upcoming industrial policies are also drawing attention. “The UK government is expected to release a series of notable policies in the coming weeks, including an industrial strategy and a ten-year infrastructure plan,” said Anna Leach, chief economist at the Institute of Directors. “These could offer businesses a way out of the current difficulties and provide a clearer view of the UK’s economic direction.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Tencent to boost AI, global expansion investments

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

    People watch a robot demonstration at the booth of Intel during the Tencent Global Digital Ecosystem Summit in Shenzhen, south China’s Guangdong Province on Sept. 5, 2024. (Xinhua/Liang Xu)

    Chinese internet giant Tencent has vowed to ramp up all-round AI investments and further expand its overseas commitments, a company announcement revealed on Friday at the Tencent Global Digital Ecosystem Summit held in the city of Guangzhou, south China’s Guangdong Province.

    In the first quarter of 2025, Tencent’s R&D investment surged by 21 percent year on year to 18.9 billion yuan (about 2.63 billion U.S. dollars), as the company upgraded its comprehensive AI ecosystem, spanning foundational large models, computing power, development tools and applications, said Tong Taosang, senior executive vice president of Tencent.

    In terms of computing power, Tencent has established data centers in Guangzhou, Qingyuan, Shaoguan and other locations across the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), providing foundational computing support for industrial upgrading.

    Tencent Vice President Li Qiang said that as a globally expanding cloud computing provider, Tencent Cloud had maintained double-digit growth in terms of its international business over the past three years — serving over 10,000 overseas customers across more than 80 countries and regions.

    This year, Tencent will further expand its overseas investments. It plans to invest 150 million U.S. dollars in the Middle East to establish its first data center in Saudi Arabia, and invest 500 million U.S. dollars in Indonesia to build its third data center in that country.

    Tencent’s revenue for 2024 increased 8 percent year on year to reach 660.3 billion yuan — with its gross profit and operating profit rising 19 percent and 24 percent, respectively.

    AI technology played a crucial role in driving Tencent’s business innovation and fueling its high-quality growth throughout the year, according to the company’s financial results released in March.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Three teams from China claim opening victories in FIBA 3×3 Xi’an Challenger

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

    The FIBA 3×3 Xi’an Challenger 2025, a key event in the FIBA 3×3 competition system, tipped off Saturday in Xi’an, capital of northwestern China’s Shaanxi Province, with three teams from the host nation securing victories.

    A total of 16 teams from around the world took part in the competition, including Partizan of Serbia, Chongming of China, Kandava of Latvia, and other top-tier teams.

    On the outdoor court at Shaanxi Gymnasium, all three Chinese teams — Qinhuangdao, Shanghai and Chongming — opened with wins. Chongming edged Bordeaux 16-15 thanks to Cameron Forte’s long-range shot in the final two seconds.

    Partizan standout Milos Supica praised the passionate local support, despite his team falling 21-15 to Shanghai in its second game of the evening.

    “The spectators’ passion impressed me with their enthusiasm for basketball,” he said.

    After the group stage on the opening day, the tournament will move to the knockout stage on Sunday, where the champion will be decided.

    Alongside the competition, organizers staged a variety of Chinese intangible cultural heritage performances and activities, offering attendees the chance to engage with and experience Chinese culture.

    “The performances and displays are great,” said Mario Alvarez, a basketballer from Spain’s Getafe club, adding that not only he, but many of the players, would gain a better understanding of Chinese culture through the tournament.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Jiangsu pockets sixth straight China’s national gymnastics men’s team title

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

    Jiangsu underlined its dominance in gymnastics as world champions You Hao and Su Wei led the team to its sixth consecutive men’s team title at the National Gymnastics Championships on Saturday.

    Jiangsu, a traditional powerhouse in men’s gymnastics, had stumbled to second place behind Hunan during the qualification stage of the tournament held in Nanning, capital of south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

    “It was the first time that Hunan beat us in national championships. We were not in form at that time — everybody was like daydreaming,” joked You after Jiangsu won the final with 323.392 points. “We woke up just in time, though not in our best form.”

    Jiangsu’s Youth Olympic champion Yin Dehang injured his shoulder before the final. He competed on floor and rings but was taken to the hospital after the award ceremony.

    “Our top priority is this year’s National Games, so our coach decided to protect Yin and put me on pommel horse today. I hope we can put ourselves together and present a great show in November,” said You.

    Under the new code of points for 2025 to 2028, several changes have been introduced in the evaluation system. The most notable adjustment is that the difficulty value of a routine is now calculated from the top eight, rather than ten, highest-value elements.

    “I think the change came too late for me. Because it’s very friendly to the veterans like me. We can focus more on the landings and qualities of every movement,” said You.

    Hunan’s men’s team, led by China’s top all-around gymnast Zhang Boheng, made two early mistakes in the opening round. Zhang required medical attention for his neck after completing his rings routine in the third round.

    “I injured my neck in rings training just one day before our departure, so I can hardly bend my head on floor, parallel bars and pommel horse. It’s a huge blow for us,” said Zhang, who helped his team fight back to finish second with 316.492 points.

    Guangdong edged out local favorite Guangxi for the final podium spot by a margin of nearly one point.

    This year’s championships also serve as a qualifier for the National Games, with the top 12 teams earning berths.

    “We still get chances for the national title in November. These championships is a warm-up for us. We will definitely push ourselves to the limit to win the title,” said Zhang.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Wang Chuqin romps into second round at table tennis worlds

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

    China’s world No. 2 Wang Chuqin delivered a commanding performance, defeating American Nandan Naresh at the men’s singles first round of the world table tennis championships on Saturday night.

    Wang controlled the match effortlessly and left the 18-year-old opponent with limited opportunities to challenge him, winning the one-sided affair 11-6, 11-4, 11-2, 11-4.

    A service call was successfully challenged as Wang asked for video review on a serve which was ruled as illegally angled.

    “I have confidence in my serves,” said Wang, who is seeking his first world singles championship in Doha.

    Wang’s world fifth-ranked teammate, Liang Jingkun, also made it to the second round, after beating Ham Yu Song from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea 14-12, 11-6, 10-12, 11-3, 11-8.

    Xue Fei became China’s first casualty, as the only penholding player on the team squandered a two-set lead in a 4-2 loss to Japan’s Hiroto Shinozuka.

    The world’s most renowned penholder, world No. 6 Felix Lebrun of France, eased past Slovakia’s Lubomir Pistej in straight sets.

    Earlier, top-ranked Chinese woman Sun Yingsha cruised past No. 216 Veronika Matiunina of Ukraine in four sets.

    “My performance is normal,” said Sun, the defending world singles champion who has twice finished runner-up at the Olympics. “I didn’t know much about my opponent. But her serve is good, and her style is unique as an 18-year-old teenager.”

    Sun will next take on the winner between 262nd-ranked Costa Rican Lucia Zavaleta and No. 67 Pyong Song Gyong from DPRK, whose players are known for exceeding expectations.

    “My second round rival might be very strong. I will get myself prepared for a tough game,” she said.

    China’s world No. 3 Chen Xingtong also reached the second round, beating South African Rochica Sonday 4-0.

    Japanese Satsuki Odo and Mima Ito, ranked eighth and ninth respectively in the world, both advanced into the second round with straight-set victories.

    Sunday’s action will see China’s world No. 1 Lin Shidong, Brazil’s No. 3 and World Cup holder Hugo Calderano, and China’s No. 2 woman Wang Manyu make their singles appearance in Doha.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New and improved urgent and after-hours healthcare

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

    Kiwis needing urgent health care will benefit from a big funding boost for urgent and after-hours healthcare services across New Zealand, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.

    “Strengthening urgent and after-hours care is an important part of our Government’s plan to ensure all New Zealanders have access to timely, quality healthcare,” Mr Brown says.

    “Budget 2025 is investing $164 million over four years to expand urgent and after-hours healthcare services across the country. This means 98 per cent of New Zealanders will be able to receive in-person urgent care within one hour’s drive of their homes.

    The funding will establish a new 24-hour urgent care service identified for Counties Manukau. It will also support:
     

    • New 24-hour urgent care services identified for larger provincial centres, including Whangārei, Palmerston North, Tauranga and Dunedin.
    • New and extended daytime urgent care services identified in other provincial cities and towns, including in Lower Hutt, Invercargill and Timaru.
    • Maintaining all existing urgent and after-hours healthcare services across the country.
    • Better after-hour services in remote rural locations with 24/7 on-call support to deliver enhanced services.

    “Around 5,000 New Zealanders visit urgent care clinics every day, but the availability of after-hours services has declined in recent years, and access remains variable across the country.

    “Making it easier to see a doctor or nurse is a key priority for this Government. We’re taking action to ensure Kiwis can access the care they need, when and where they need it.

    “Our investment will also support more timely care, reducing pressure on emergency departments, and improving outcomes for patients.

    “Urgent care supports patients with non-life-threatening injuries or medical problems not severe enough to require emergency department care, but who can’t wait until the following day for medical attention.

    “Expanding community-based urgent care will help ease pressure on hospitals and keep emergency departments wait times down for those with the most serious conditions.

    “It also gives people more choice, particularly in rural and remote areas where options have been limited.”

    This investment builds on the Government’s comprehensive primary care package announced in March, including:
     

    • 100 clinical placements for overseas-trained doctors
    • Recruitment incentives for up to 400 graduate nurses annually for five years
    • 100 additional doctor training places over the course of this Government
    • Up to 50 graduate doctors training in primary care annually
    • Up to 120 training places for nurse practitioners in primary care
    • Accelerated tertiary education for up to 120 primary care nurses
    • A $285 million uplift to funding over three years for general practice from 1 July, in addition to the capitation uplift general practice receives annually
    • Better access to 24/7 digital services.

    “This Government is investing more in health than ever before, with a record $16.68 billion over three Budgets to improve health outcomes for Kiwis.

    “Today’s announcement will ensure more consistent access to urgent care across the country, so all New Zealanders can get timely, quality healthcare when and where they need it.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Palmerston North and Lower Hutt to receive new and improved urgent care services

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

    Access to urgent and after-hours healthcare is being expanded across the central and lower North Island as part of Budget 2025 to deliver faster, more accessible urgent care, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.“We’re investing in new and extended urgent care services across the Central region to ensure people can get the right care, at the right time, closer to home,” Mr Brown says.“These improvements will make it easier for New Zealanders to get help when they need it – whether late at night, on weekends, or in more remote communities, while also reducing pressure on emergency departments.“In Palmerston North, a new 24/7 service has been identified to provide the community with consistent access to timely, quality urgent care around the clock.“A new daytime urgent care service has been identified for Lower Hutt, adding to the existing after-hours service and expanding access to urgent care seven days a week. This means people living in the Hutt will be able to access care during the day, without needing to wait or travel further for non-emergency support.”These new and improved urgent care services will be introduced over the next two years, alongside continued support for existing providers and improvements to rural access.“This investment will make a real difference for patients – with shorter travel times, better local options, and faster access to essential treatments like diagnostics and urgent medicines.”Key Budget 2025 initiatives for the Central region include: 

    A new 24/7 urgent care service identified for Palmerston North by mid 2027.
    A new daytime urgent care service identified for Lower Hutt, building on the existing after-hours service in late 2025.
    Maintaining all existing urgent and after-hours healthcare services in the region, with capability to extend hours in central Wellington.  
    Extended after-hour services identified for Dannevirke, Masterton, Levin, and Wairoa.
    Improved services for rural and remote communities, including better access to diagnostics, urgent medicines, and 24/7 on-call clinical support.

    “This Government is investing more in health than ever before, with a record $16.68 billion over three Budgets to improve health outcomes for Kiwis. “Our investment means people living in cities, towns and rural areas across the Central region will have better access to the care they need, when they need it,” Mr Brown says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tauranga to benefit from urgent care boost in the region

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

    Communities in Gisborne, Bay of Plenty, Waikato, Lakes, and Taranaki will have access to faster, more accessible healthcare under Budget 2025, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.“Strengthening urgent and after-hours care is a key part of our plan to ensure all New Zealanders – including Kiwis living across the Midland region – can access the right care when they need it,” Mr Brown says.Budget 2025 delivers a significant investment in urgent and after-hours healthcare across the region, making it easier for people to access care closer to home.“Urgent care services in Tauranga will be strengthened to ensure more consistent, high-quality care, with a new 24/7 service urgent care service identified to meet the growing needs of the city’s expanding population and reduce pressure on hospital resources.“Rural communities such as Tokoroa, Te Awamutu and Matamata will also benefit from better urgent care access, including extended opening hours, better diagnostic access, and more support for local health teams.“This investment will ensure that people through the Midland region – whether in larges centres of smaller towns – can get urgent care more quickly outside of normal hours, without needing to travel long distances.Key Budget 2025 initiatives for the Midland region include: 

    A new 24/7 urgent care service identified for Tauranga by mid-2026.
    Maintaining all existing urgent and after-hours healthcare services in the region.  
    Extended after-hour services identified for Thames, Whakatane, Tokoroa, Gisborne, Taupo, Te Kuiti, and Hawera.
    Improved services for rural and remote Midland communities, including better access to diagnostics, urgent medicines, and 24/7 on-call clinical support. 

    “This Government is investing more in health than ever before, with a record $16.68 billion over three Budgets to improve health outcomes for Kiwis.“Our investment is delivering a healthcare system that works for every New Zealander – easing pressure on hospitals, strengthening our frontline workforce, and improving outcomes for patients across the region,” Mr Brown says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Whangārei and Counties Manukau to receive 24/7 urgent care boost

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

    Faster, more accessible urgent care for communities across Auckland and Northland will be delivered through Budget 2025, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.“The Government is making a significant investment to improve access to urgent and after-hours healthcare nationwide, including across the Northern region,” Mr Brown says.“Strengthening urgent and after-hours care is a key part of our plan to ensure all New Zealanders – including Aucklanders and Northlanders – can access timely, quality healthcare, when and where they need it.“Budget 2025 will fund a new 24/7 urgent care service identified for Counties Manukau, providing more accessible after-hours options and easing pressure on the region’s already busy emergency departments, including Middlemore.“A new 24/7 urgent care service in Whangārei has also been identified, significantly improving access to care outside normal hours in Northland’s largest city.”Communities across Auckland and Northland will also benefit from extended opening hours, and greater support for rural and remote providers, with changes being rolled out over the next two years.“These investments will give people – especially in rural and remote communities – greater access to essential services like diagnostics and urgent medicines when they need them.“More options in the evening, overnight, and on weekends for locals will also reduce pressure on emergency departments and deliver better outcomes for patients.”Key Budget 2025 initiatives for the Northern region include: 

    A new 24/7 urgent care service identified for Counties Manukau by late 2025.
    A new 24/7 urgent care service identified for Whangārei from 2026.
    Maintaining all existing urgent and after-hours healthcare services in the region.
    Extended after-hour services identified for Dargaville, Hokianga, Kaitaia, and Wellsford.
    Improved services for rural and remote Northland communities, including better access to diagnostics, urgent medicines, and 24/7 on-call clinical support.

    “This Government is investing more in health than ever before, with a record $16.68 billion over three Budgets to improve health outcomes for Kiwis.“Our investment will give Aucklanders and Northlanders more choice, reduce wait times, and bring care closer to home,” Mr Brown says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Urgent care boost for Dunedin, Invercargill, and Timaru

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

    South Island communities will have better access to urgent and after-hours healthcare as part of a nationwide investment, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.“Improving access to urgent and after-hours services is a key part of our plan to ensure all New Zealanders – whether they live in cities, towns, or rural areas – can get timely, quality care when they need it,” Mr Brown says.“Budget 2025 delivers new and enhanced urgent care services across the South Island, making it easier for people to get the care they need closer to home.“In Dunedin, a new 24/7 service has been identified to ensure the community has round-the-clock access to care every day of the week, easing pressure on the city’s hospital. This means people in Dunedin will be able to get urgent care any time of the day and night, while our Government continues to prioritise delivering the New Dunedin Hospital.“New daytime services have been identified for Invercargill and Timaru, building on existing after-hours services to offer more consistent, reliable care.“Rural and remote communities will also benefit from improved urgent care access, including better access to diagnostic services, urgent medicines, and on-call clinicians. “This investment means South Islanders will have faster access to care, with shorter trips and more treatment available locally – especially outside of normal hours – while reducing pressure on emergency departments.Key Budget 2025 initiatives for the South Island include: 

    A new 24/7 urgent care service identified for Dunedin by late 2025.
    A new daytime urgent care service identified for Invercargill and Timaru, building on the existing after-hours services.
    Maintaining all existing urgent and after-hours healthcare services in the region.
    Improved after-hour services identified for Alexandra, Ashburton, Balclutha, Golden Bay, Gore, and Oamaru.
    Around 30 rural and remote communities to benefit from improved services, including better access to diagnostics, urgent medicines, and 24/7 on-call clinical support.

    “This Government is investing more in health than ever before, with a record $16.68 billion over three Budgets to improve health outcomes for Kiwis.“Alongside new and improved urgent care services, our investment will better support rural clinicians with tools, diagnostics, and more connected care – helping deliver timely, quality services across the South Island,” Mr Brown says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Urgent care closer to home for rural and remote communities

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

    Kiwis living in rural and remote communities will benefit from a significant funding boost to urgent and after-hours healthcare services, Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey says.“Access to healthcare is one of the biggest concerns for people living in rural and remote communities,” Mr Doocey says.“Our Government is committed to ensuring all New Zealanders can get the care they need, when they need it – no matter where they live. This investment will bring healthcare closer to home for more people.“Budget 2025 is investing $164 million over four years to strengthen urgent and after-hours care nationwide, meaning 98 per cent of Kiwis will be able to access these services within one hour’s drive of their home.”The funding includes targeted support for more than 70 rural and remote communities, including: 

    Extended after-hours
    24/7 on-call in-person clinical support
    Improved access to diagnostics and medicines 

    Changes will be rolled out over the next two years to ensure services are tailored to the specific needs of each community. This year, new services will be trialled in Twizel, Tākaka, Tūrangi, Te Kūiti, Coromandel, and Great Barrier Island before being rolled out nationwide.“People in rural New Zealand deserve access to timely, quality healthcare. This investment will reduce travel times, improve access to services, and help take pressure off our emergency departments.“This is about delivering practical improvements that make a real difference for people living in rural and remote areas. Geography shouldn’t be a barrier to getting the healthcare you need,” Mr Doocey says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Walz Authorizes Minnesota National Guard to Help Fight Northern Minnesota Wildfire

    Source: US State of Minnesota

    Governor Tim Walz today authorized the Minnesota National Guard to provide emergency assistance to help fight the Camp House wildfire in northern Minnesota. Executive Order 25-04 directs the National Guard to assist the Minnesota Interagency Fire Center with fire suppression efforts and assets.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Walz Travels to the Two Harbors Area to Survey Wildfires

    Source: US State of Minnesota

    Governor Tim Walz and United States Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith today traveled to the Two Harbors area in Northeastern Minnesota to survey damage caused by wildfires. The Camp House fire, Jenkins Creek fire, and Munger Shaw fire have impacted an estimated area of over 32,000 acres. Local, state, and federal firefighters, alongside emergency management officials and volunteers are working to contain the fires as gusting winds increase fire activity.

    MIL OSI USA News –