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Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI China: China Book Corner inaugurated in Bangladesh

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

    A China Book Corner was officially inaugurated at the National Library of Bangladesh on Sunday in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The unveiling ceremony and subsequent “Reading China” China-Bangladesh Youth Exchange brought together nearly 300 participants, including representatives from governments, media organizations, universities, and enterprises of both countries.

    Du Zhanyuan, president of China International Communications Group (CICG), speaks at the China Book Corner unveiling ceremony in Dhaka, Bangladesh, May 11, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    In his opening remarks, Du Zhanyuan, president of China International Communications Group (CICG), noted that 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of China-Bangladesh diplomatic relations, and it is also the China-Bangladesh People-to-People Exchange Year. He said he hopes that the book corner and exchange event would deepen cultural ties and mutual understanding. 

    Du said books are vital bridges for the exchange of civilizations, and he encouraged young people to embrace reading and dialogue to better understand other cultures.

    Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, honorable adviser of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs of Bangladesh, speaks at the China Book Corner unveiling ceremony in Dhaka, Bangladesh, May 11, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, honorable adviser of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs of Bangladesh, called the book corner a key outcome of the two countries’ leadership exchanges and a model of cultural cooperation. He expressed hope for expanded collaboration in fields such as new media and film.

    Yao Wen, Chinese ambassador to Bangladesh, speaks at the China Book Corner unveiling ceremony in Dhaka, Bangladesh, May 11, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    Yao Wen, Chinese ambassador to Bangladesh, highlighted the millennium-old cultural ties between China and Bangladesh, saying the new book corner would serve as a high-quality platform for deepening mutual understanding and promoting cultural exchange.

    Mofidur Rahman, secretary of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs of Bangladesh, speaks at the China Book Corner inaugural ceremony in Dhaka, Bangladesh, May 11, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    Mofidur Rahman, secretary of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs of Bangladesh, emphasized that with growing cooperation in infrastructure and economic development, it is the right time to expand into cultural collaboration. He said the book corner would open a new window for the Bangladeshi public to better understand China.

    The China Book Corner is officially inaugurated at the National Library of Bangladesh in Dhaka, Bangladesh, May 11, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    The book corner received a donation of more than 1,200 books, including titles covering China’s politics, culture, science, and agriculture.

    Jointly hosted by CICG, Bangladesh’s Ministry of Cultural Affairs, and the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh, this event was part of CICG’s broader cultural exchange initiative in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of China-Bangladesh diplomatic relations, as well as the China-Bangladesh People-to-People Exchange Year.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Readers forum on ‘Xi Jinping: The Governance of China’ held in Bangladesh

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

    Chinese representatives present Bangladeshi counterparts with the books during the China-Bangladesh Readers Forum on “Xi Jinping: The Governance of China” in Dhaka, Bangladesh, May 11, 2025. The forum was held recently here with more than 350 attendees from the political, academic, business and media circles of both China and Bangladesh. [Photo by Habibur Rahman/Xinhua]

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s listed firms log solid Q1 earnings on thriving consumption, tech innovation

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

    Despite global economic uncertainties, China’s listed companies posted solid first-quarter performance in 2025, driven by robust consumer spending and steady advances in technological innovation.

    Among the 5,400 listed companies that have released financial reports for the first quarter (Q1), more than 70 percent were in the black, according to financial information provider Wind.

    The combined net profit attributable to shareholders of all listed firms came in at 1.49 trillion yuan (about 207 billion U.S. dollars), up 3.64 percent from a year ago, the data showed.

    According to analysts, the Q1 reports reflect a surge in emerging consumption trends and booming technological innovation among China’s listed companies, underscoring the country’s ongoing shift toward high-quality development.

    The consumer sector emerged as a bright spot in first-quarter earnings, with listed consumer companies reporting a 4.7 percent year-on-year rise in revenue and a 14.7 percent increase in net profit attributable to shareholders, both outpacing the average growth rate of non-financial firms.

    Appliance makers were among the top gainers, supported by the government-backed trade-in scheme. During the period, the household appliance and consumer electronics segments posted year-on-year growth of 22.8 percent and 107.5 percent, respectively, in net profit attributable to shareholders.

    Last year, China’s consumer goods trade-in program boosted product sales by more than 1.3 trillion yuan, according the Ministry of Commerce. Building on the achievements, the country’s central authorities have recently issued approximately 81 billion yuan in ultra-long special treasury bonds, aiming to increase support for the program this year.

    New consumption models have been reshaping the market. According to Founder Securities, Chinese consumers have been spending more on holidays, ice and snow sports, and buying “guzi”– a homonym for “goods” that refers to various merchandise featuring elements of animation, comics and games (ACG) culture.

    In the first quarter, profits of firms in ice and snow tourism rose 25.8 percent year on year, while companies in the pet industry and those related to “guzi” economy saw earnings jump 58.2 percent and 93.6 percent, respectively.

    Spending on culture, entertainment and tourism also gained momentum among Chinese consumers, fueling business growth across sectors such as aviation, hospitality and film.

    Take the movie industry, for example. As of April 30, 16 film and television production companies had released their first-quarter financial reports, with six of them reporting a year-on-year doubling of net profit attributable to shareholders.

    Yan Xiang, chief economist at Founder Securities, said that the simultaneous rise in profits and revenue among consumer-related firms highlights the immense potential of China’s vast consumer market. As consumption continues to expand steadily, consumer spending is expected to play an increasingly significant role in boosting growth in the country, he added.

    Another key theme emerging from the quarterly reports was tech-driven innovation, with listed Chinese companies emphasizing advancements in smart manufacturing, digital operations and supply chain optimization as part of a broader push to spur growth through technology.

    In line with the trend, China’s listed firms have funneled more funds for research and development (R&D), with data from Wind showing that nearly half of all listed firms increased R&D investments in Q1.

    Breakthroughs in core technologies have also facilitated industrial upgrades. Companies in emerging industries accounted for 40 percent of all firms listed on the Shanghai main board, overtaking traditional sectors like finance to become the market’s leading sectors by market capitalization.

    Zheng Hongda, an analyst with Western Securities, stressed the importance of strong internal momentum among China’s technology firms in the face of a complex external environment.

    For technology companies, their investment plans for the next period should center on key areas such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence, which will galvanize the internal driving forces along the industrial chain, Zheng said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Airfreight boom drives new opening-up momentum in inland China

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

    Xi’an, an ancient capital of China and the starting point of the historic Silk Road, is writing a new chapter in global trade as it strives to develop an airfreight-driven economy, with its international air cargo and mail volume doubling in the first four months of 2024.

    From January to April, the inland metropolis handled 17,200 tonnes of cross-border shipments — primarily e-commerce goods — marking a 102.4 percent year-on-year increase.

    The growth was driven by Xi’an’s expanded Eurasian cargo network this year, with more cargo flights to Budapest and the launch of four new freight routes linking Tbilisi, Milan, Debrecen, and Madrid, thereby strengthening the city’s connections with Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, according to Xi’an Xianyang International Airport.

    In February, the airport’s Terminal 5, a 705,500-square-meter “super terminal” larger than the combined area of the previous three terminals, officially opened, adding 115 aircraft parking stands while boosting the city’s air logistics capacity.

    Amid global economic uncertainties, China has continued to advance high-level openness. The country’s total goods imports and exports in yuan-denominated terms expanded 1.3 percent year on year in the first quarter of 2025, demonstrating stable growth and strong resilience, according to the General Administration of Customs.

    Xi’an’s booming airfreight economy is part of China’s broader opening-up drive, contributing to the country’s overall trade expansion.

    In the Airport New City (ANC) of Xixian New Area, where the airport is located, bonded warehouses are stocked with imported daily necessities and cosmetics as workers at a cross-border logistics company busily load orders for delivery.

    “Compared with coastal cities like Hangzhou, Xi’an offers a cost advantage for air cargo to Europe, Central Asia and the Middle East, with flight times shortened by around two hours,” said Lan Yibo, the general manager of the company, adding that they have begun exporting Chinese-made light industrial products to Europe starting this year.

    The airport’s high customs clearance efficiency and convenience have attracted a growing number of businesses.

    “By making prior reservations, companies can cut customs clearance times from three or four days to just seven hours,” said Dang Liming, an official of the ANC.

    Benefiting from the airport-oriented economy, the ANC now hosts 13 logistics parks and over 200 leading logistics firms.

    The thriving air logistics has boosted the express delivery and cross-border e-commerce businesses.

    Last year, the Xi’an airport handled over 7.3 million international express shipments, ranking second in China.

    Located within the ANC, the northwest China regional hub of delivery giant YTO Express handled 1 billion parcels last year, up 33.3 percent year on year.

    Shao Xing, a manager at the company, said the Xi’an regional hub has ranked among the top five nationwide in terms of scale.

    “The company will launch a new Silk Road international port project by the end of next year, aiming to expand multimodal transport capabilities and enhance connectivity in Central Asia through integrated logistics networks,” Shao said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China completes testing of heavy, reusable liquid rocket engine

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

    China completes testing of heavy, reusable liquid rocket engine

    Xinhua | May 14, 2025

    China has successfully completed the full-engine testing of a 140-tonne liquid oxygen-methane engine that will power the country’s reusable carrier rockets, the engine’s maker said on Tuesday.

    Developed by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation’s Academy of Aerospace Propulsion Technology, the rocket engine boasts the largest thrust among China’s current open-cycle liquid oxygen-methane ones.

    It is designed to serve as a crucial power source for reusable rockets and will play a vital role in future space-Earth transportation systems, reusable launch vehicles and heavy-lift rocket development.

    The academy said that the latest successful test marks a breakthrough in the production of China’s hundred-tonne-class liquid oxygen-methane engines. It also highlighted the efficiency of the development process, noting that it was completed in just seven months.

    In December 2024, the state-owned rocket engine developer tested its 90-tonne reusable liquid oxygen-kerosene engine for commercial spacecraft — a milestone achievement since it began focusing on the commercial space sector in 2023.

    The commercial space sector was listed in the country’s 2024 government work report as a “new engine of economic growth.”

    The academy said that more efforts will be dedicated to developing heavier engines, specifically targeting reusable 200-tonne liquid oxygen-methane engines. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mann Applauds House Agriculture Reconciliation Bill to Cut Waste, Strengthen SNAP

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tracey Mann (Kansas, 1)

    CLICK HERE to download Rep. Mann’s opening remarks.

    CLICK HERE to watch Rep. Mann’s opening remarks on YouTube.

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) applauded the House Agriculture Committee’s portion of the reconciliation bill during opening remarks of the committee’s markup. The bill institutes long-overdue accountability measures for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), expands work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents, and closes loopholes in work requirement waivers. Rep. Mann also praised the investments the bill makes in strengthening the farm economy, expanding the farm safety net, updating reference prices, and investing taxpayer dollars in places they can see a return.

    Rep. Mann’s Opening Remarks as Prepared:

    Thank you, Chairman Thompson, for holding today’s mark up and for your leadership in crafting this legislation that I truly believe will revitalize the farm economy for those who feed, clothe, and fuel the world not just in the Big First District of Kansas but across our country, all while faithfully stewarding taxpayer dollars and creating opportunities for more people to benefit from the dignity of work and achieve the American dream.

    This bill makes crucial investments to support the farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers of the Big First and across rural America. Farmers are struggling, with production costs up over 30 percent and commodity prices down substantially, and they are in desperate need for some degree of relief. We aren’t going to solve all of their problems here today, but we can help provide them some certainty by updating reference prices, expanding access to crop insurance, and increasing investment in export promotion programs. This bill does exactly that, and it will help ensure a safe, reliable, and stable food supply for years to come.

    This legislation also allows us to be forward thinking about the needs of the agricultural community by directing funds to areas with a high return on investment, including by addressing the deferred maintenance backlog at land-grants like Kansas State University for vital ag research and protecting consumers and producers through livestock biosecurity that can fend off growing threats like New World Screwworm. 

    And just as important is the work this legislation does to protect and preserve the SNAP program for those who need it most and ensure that we have a strong safety net for generations to come. We aren’t here today making these reforms to SNAP just because we believe they are more efficient or because they will save us money, we are pursuing these changes because it is wrong to jeopardize the benefits of the single mom taking care of kids too young to be in school or the disabled and elderly in order to subsidize someone who is perfectly capable of making an honest income, but isn’t willing to join the workforce. By definition, these are “able bodied adults without dependents.” These changes will ensure that these individuals are served by the program as it was intended: not as a couch that you can sit on as long as you want, but as a true safety net that gets you back on the ladder of opportunity and back into a job where you can experience the dignity of work and have a shot at the American dream.

    The world doesn’t wait for Congress to act, and global competitors continue to grow stronger every day. Failure is not an option. Agriculture is the backbone of our country, supporting the nation’s food security, trade, and overall economic strength, and today we have in front of us a once in a lifetime opportunity to provide our farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers with certainty, fairness, and the tools they need to keep feeding, clothing, and fueling America. Now is the time for this Committee to step up and deliver for them. Passing this bill is a commitment to rural America and to the future of American agriculture, and I look forward to supporting it today.

    ###

    For more information about Representative Mann, visit: www.mann.house.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s message on World Press Freedom Day [scroll down for French version]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Download the video:
    https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG++World+Press+Freedom+Day+29+Apr+25/3365789_MSG+SG+WORLD+PRESS+FREEDOM+DAY+29+APR+25.mp4

    In a world plagued by conflict and division, World Press Freedom Day highlights a fundamental truth: 

    Freedom for people depends on freedom of the press.

    Free and independent journalism is an essential public good.

    It’s the backbone of accountability, justice, equality and human rights.

    Journalists everywhere must be able to report freely and without fear or favour.

    When journalists are unable to work, we all lose.

    Tragically, this is becoming more difficult every year.

    And more dangerous.

    Journalists face attacks, detentions, censorship, intimidation, violence and even death — simply for doing their jobs.

    We are seeing a sharp rise in the number of journalists killed in conflict areas – particularly in Gaza.

    And now — as this year’s theme reminds us — press freedom faces an unprecedented threat.

    Artificial intelligence can support freedom of expression — or stifle it.

    Biased algorithms, outright lies, and hate speech are landmines on the information superhighway.   

    Accurate, verifiable, fact-based information is the best tool to defuse them. 

    The Global Digital Compact adopted last year includes concrete steps to strengthen international cooperation to promote information integrity, tolerance and respect in the digital space.

    AI must be shaped in a way that is consistent with human rights and puts facts first. 

    And the Global Principles for Information Integrity I launched last year are supporting and informing this work as we push for a more humane information ecosystem.

    On this World Press Freedom Day, let’s commit to make this a reality and safeguard press freedom and the press everywhere.

    ***

    Dans un monde en proie aux conflits et aux divisions, la Journée mondiale de la liberté de la presse met en lumière une vérité fondamentale :

    La liberté des personnes dépend de la liberté de la presse.

    Le journalisme libre et indépendant est un bien commun essentiel.

    Il est l’épine dorsale de la transparence, de la justice, de l’égalité et des droits humains.

    Partout, les journalistes doivent pouvoir informer librement, sans crainte ni parti pris.

    Lorsque les journalistes sont empêchés de faire leur travail, c’est toute la société qui en paye le prix.

    Malheureusement, ce travail est plus difficile chaque année.

    Et plus dangereux.

    Des journalistes sont attaqués, emprisonnés, censurés, intimidés, victimes de violences ou même tués, simplement pour avoir fait leur travail.

    Nous voyons une forte augmentation du nombre de journalistes tués dans les zones de conflit, en particulier à Gaza.

    Et aujourd’hui, comme nous le rappelle le thème choisi cette année pour la Journée mondiale, la liberté de la presse fait face à une menace sans précédent.

    L’intelligence artificielle peut favoriser la liberté d’expression – ou l’étouffer.

    Les biais algorithmiques, les mensonges purs et simples et les discours de haine sont autant de mines disséminées sur l’autoroute de l’information.

    Pour les désamorcer, rien de tel que des informations factuellement exactes et vérifiables.

    Le Pacte numérique mondial adopté l’an dernier énonce des mesures concrètes permettant de renforcer la coopération internationale et de promouvoir l’intégrité de l’information, la tolérance et le respect dans l’espace numérique.

    L’intelligence artificielle doit être façonnée de manière à favoriser le respect des droits humains et à donner la priorité aux faits.

    Les Principes mondiaux pour l’intégrité de l’information que j’ai lancés l’an dernier viennent étayer et orienter l’action que nous menons pour créer un écosystème de l’information plus humain.

    En cette Journée mondiale de la liberté de la presse, engageons-nous à faire de ces objectifs une réalité et à préserver la liberté de la presse et la presse elle-même partout dans le monde.

    ***

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s video message to the 25th edition of the Electrical and Computer Engineering Conferences (JEEC/25) at Instituto Superior Técnico Lisboa, 5-9 May 2025 [scroll down for English version]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Download the vídeo:
    https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+25th+Coordination+of+the+Electrical+and+Computer+Engineering+Career+Week+5-9+MAY+25/MSG+SG+ENGINEERING+CAREER+WEEK+IST+LISBON+21+FEB+25.mp4

    https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+25th+Coordination+of+the+Electrical+and+Computer+Engineering+Career+Week+5-9+MAY+25/MSG+SG+ENGINEERING+CAREER+WEEK+IST+LISBON+21+FEB+25+EN.mp4

    Caras alunas e caros alunos,

    Saúdo-vos calorosamente por ocasião destas importantes e entusiasmantes jornadas no Instituto Superior Técnico.

    Como antigo aluno, posso afirmar que o Técnico teve um papel decisivo na minha formação e na minha capacidade de aprender a aprender e de começar a procurar soluções para os desafios do nosso mundo em rápida mudança.

    Esta procura de soluções é o objetivo das disciplinas de ciências, tecnologia, engenharia e matemática.

    Da luta contra a pobreza, a fome, a desigualdade e a discriminação, passando pela resolução de conflitos e pela crise climática, até ao aproveitamento do grande potencial de tecnologias em rápida evolução como a Inteligência Artificial, precisamos das vossas ideias, conhecimentos e inovações. 

    Ao empreenderem por uma carreira em engenharia eletrotécnica e de computadores, têm a oportunidade de desempenhar um papel fundamental para enfrentar estes desafios e melhorar a vida das pessoas. 

    Através do Pacto para o Futuro, recentemente adotado pelas Nações Unidas, os países concordaram em acelerar os investimentos nos sistemas educativos, para garantir que os alunos de todas as idades possam ter um melhor acesso à formação e à tecnologia de que precisam ao longo das suas vidas.

    O Pacto apela também à criação de um Painel Científico Internacional Independente sobre Inteligência Artificial que promova um entendimento comum dos riscos, benefícios e capacidades – e um diálogo global que garanta que todos os países tenham uma voz ativa na definição do futuro da Inteligência Artificial.

    Caras alunas e caros alunos,

    Os vossos estudos no Técnico estão a proporcionar-vos a base de que precisam.

    Mas os próximos passos dependem de cada um de vós.

    Por isso, mantenham-se curiosos e empenhados.

    Continuem a alargar os limites da inovação e do conhecimento humano.

    Continuem a aprender a aprender.

    E obrigado por dedicarem as vossas mãos, mentes e corações à tarefa mais importante de todas – a de moldar um futuro melhor, mais justo e mais saudável para todas as pessoas.

    Bem hajam!

    ***

    Dear students,

    I send warm greetings for this important and exciting week at Instituto Superior Técnico.

    As a former student, I can say that Técnico played a decisive role in my own education and in my ability to learn how to learn, and to begin seeking solutions to the challenges of our rapidly changing world.

    This search for solutions is what the science, technology, engineering and math subjects are all about.

    From fighting poverty, hunger, inequality and discrimination, to addressing conflicts and the climate crisis, to harnessing the great potential of rapidly evolving technology like Artificial Intelligence, we need the ideas, expertise and innovations of all of you. 

    By pursuing a career in electrical and computer engineering, you can play a critical role in tackling these challenges and improving people’s lives. 

    Through the recently adopted Pact for the Future, countries agreed to accelerate investments in education systems, to ensure that learners of all ages can better access the training and technology they need throughout their lives.

    The Pact also calls for the creation of an Independent International Scientific Panel on AI that promotes a common understanding of risks, benefits and capabilities — and a global dialogue that ensure that all countries have a voice in shaping the future of Artificial Intelligence.

    Dear students,

    Your studies at Técnico are giving you the foundation you need.

    But the next steps are up to you.

    So stay curious and engaged.

    Keep pushing the boundaries of innovation and human knowledge.

    Continue learning how to learn.

    And thank you for lending your hands, minds and hearts to the most important task of all — shaping a better, fairer, healthier future for all people.

    Thank you.

    ***
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Update on aged care respite service at Burrangiri

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services



    As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

    Released 14/05/2025

    Minister for Health, Rachel Stephen-Smith announced this morning that the ACT Health Directorate is preparing the necessary paperwork to support The Salvation Army to continue delivery of the Burrangiri Aged Care Respite Facility for a further two years.

    This announcement complements the Albanese Labor Government’s $10 million election commitment to ensure the number of respite beds in the ACT will not reduce.

    Minister Stephen-Smith said the original decision to close the facility was not made lightly and the significant commitment from the Commonwealth Government has enabled new options to be considered in the delivery of respite care in the short and longer term.

    Federal Labor has recognised the Commonwealth responsibility for aged care respite, and the ACT Government will continue working with the Commonwealth for the benefit of older Canberrans and their carers.

    “It is important to note that while the Burrangiri service can continue in the short term, the Health Directorate’s advice remains that the facility would require a significant scope of work to be fit for purpose for the delivery of quality aged care respite services in the medium term,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.

    “However, the ACT Government recognises the concerns raised by the community around the availability of respite and the value of the Burrangiri service to those who currently rely on it. A two-year extension allows us to work with the Commonwealth on more sustainable solutions for respite in the ACT and best use of the funding available.”

    Minister Stephen-Smith said she has written to the re-appointed Commonwealth Minister for Health and Ageing, the Hon Mark Butler MP, seeking to work together to deliver appropriate respite for older Canberrans and their carers.

    “I was very pleased that Federal Labor committed $10 million for a new facility or to extend an existing facility to deliver aged care respite beds in the ACT,” she said.

    “I’ve written to Minister Butler asking him to consider Commonwealth co-funding to support the Burrangiri extension, as well as to expedite delivery of the election commitment to ensure dedicated residential respite beds will be available as soon as possible.”

    The ACT Government is also working with Carers ACT to explore options to identify land for a purpose-built respite centre and the Government has started this important work with Carers ACT.

    – Statement ends –

    Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases

    «ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Daily progress for Wednesday, 14 May 2025

    Source:

    Order Paper for Wednesday, 12 May 2025

    2.00pm

    Death of former member

    The Speaker informed the House of the death on 19 April 2025 of Peter Malcolm Hilt. Members stood as a mark of respect.

    Introduction of bill

    The introduction of the Legislation Amendment Bill was announced.

    Oral questions

    Question Time is in progress.

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Getting kids back in school

    Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

    Frontline attendance services will receive a significant funding boost so they can support more schools and reach double the students, Associate Education Minister David Seymour says.

    Budget 2025 includes a $140 million package to improve attendance over the next four years. This includes around $123 million for the delivery of a new attendance service and almost $17 million to support and strengthen frontline attendance services.

    “Frontline attendance services will be more accountable, better at effectively managing cases, and data driven in their responses. To achieve this, they will soon have access to a new case management system and better data monitoring, and their contracts will be more closely monitored,” Mr Seymour says.

    “In 2024 the Education Review Office (ERO) completed a report into attendance services which found that the system designed to get students back in school was ineffective and required substantial reform. For example, the current system fails to consistently improve student attendance because funding varies between providers. Many services are under resourced and cannot meet demand.

    The 2024 ERO report made four recommendations for a successful new attendance service:

    • Having effective targeted supports in place to address chronic absence
    • Increasing the focus on retaining students on their return
    • Putting in place an efficient and effective model
    • Strengthening how we prevent students becoming chronically absent

    “The new attendance services model addresses the first three recommendations. The wider attendance action plan, which includes the requirement for schools to have their own attendance management plan, aligned with the Stepped Attendance Response (STAR) in place by Term 1 of 2026, will address all four,” Mr Seymour says.

    “Service providers will work with families, local communities and social agencies to deliver comprehensive services. The level of service provided will depend on the need. It will range from advice and support to schools, to intensive case management of students.

    “Schools with the highest numbers of chronically absent students will be able to apply for funding for an in-school service. The schools in this bracket tend to be ones in higher Equity Index (EQI) groups, facing the most socio-economic barriers.”

    Transitioning to the new Attendance Service will begin at the end of this year and the new services will become fully operational from early 2026. The Ministry of Education will work with providers to ensure the transition is smooth, and that students continue to receive the services they need during this period.

    “Attending school is the first step towards achieving positive educational outcomes. Positive educational outcomes lead to better health, higher incomes, better job stability and greater participation within communities. These are opportunities that every student deserves,” Mr Seymour says.

    Please find ERO’s report here: Left behind: How do we get our chronically absent students back to school?

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Reappointment as Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government

    Source: Workplace Gender Equality Agency

    I am honoured to be reappointed the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government in the second term Albanese Labor Government, and I thank the Prime Minister for his continued support. 

    In our first three years, we embarked on a transformative agenda to reform commonwealth infrastructure investment and return discipline to investment decisions. 

    This included reforming the infrastructure pipeline so Australians can have confidence projects can be delivered when they are promised, and securing new five-year funding agreements with the jurisdictions that require infrastructure investments to be properly planned and costed.

    In transport, we embarked on significant reform to Australia’s aviation industry including reforms to the slot system at Sydney Airport for the first time in 25 years, and landed a record number of bilateral air agreements. 

    We restored integrity to the federal grants process, increased funding for local roads, and legislated a national fuel efficiency standard. 

    With the foundations set in the first term, it is time to harness the opportunity to build a better and stronger future, with infrastructure that connects people and businesses and makes our communities not just liveable, but desirable.

    We have a significant agenda for our second term, including: establishing a robust consumer aviation protection regime, preserving regional aviation and driving competition in the sector; driving productivity in construction and across our supply chains; getting on with Melbourne Airport Rail, fixing Queensland’s Bruce Highway, finishing Western Sydney International, and much more. 

    I look forward to continuing to work with an impressive team of Ministers to progress this important work.  

    The Australian people have put their trust in us and we look forward to delivering on our commitments.  

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s video message to the Europe Day event which marks the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration – the foundation of the European Union – and the 80th anniversary of the United Nations

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Download the video:
    https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+5+May+25/3374143_MSG+SG+EUROPE+DAY+05+MAY+25.mp4
     

    Excellencies,

    I am honoured to send my warmest wishes to everyone celebrating Europe Day.

    This year marks the 75th anniversary of the European Union – and the 80th anniversary of the United Nations.

    Two organizations born from the same tragedy – and united by the same resolve:

    To spare humanity from war and hatred.

    Through the years, the European Union has stood strong as a union of peoples and principles…

    A force for reconciliation, rights, and reason…

    And a reminder that peace can endure, blossom, and inspire.

    We need that spirit more than ever.

    In a world of growing divides and cascading crises, the EU remains a vital partner of the United Nations:

    Defending human rights and dignity;

    Advancing climate action and sustainable development;

    And championing multilateralism when it is most tested.  

    The Pact for the Future calls for stronger and fairer global institutions that reflect today’s realities and rise to tomorrow’s challenges.

    Europe is essential in that effort.

    Together, let’s keep working to bridge divides, foster bold transformations, and strive for solidarity and justice in a more united world. 

    Happy Europe Day.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UN Secretary-General’s statement on the passing of Mr. José “Pepe” Mujica, former President of Uruguay [scroll down for Spanish]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    I am deeply saddened by the passing of former President José Mujica. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, the Government, and the people of Uruguay. 

    President Mujica will be remembered not only for his steadfast commitment to social justice, equality, and solidarity but also for the deeply human way in which he embodied those values. He led with humility, choosing simplicity over privilege, and reminded us—through words and example—that power should be exercised with responsibility and compassion. 

    President Mujica championed dialogue and multilateralism, embodying the values at the heart of the Charter of the United Nations and lending his moral authority to the cause of peace and human rights.  
     

    ***

    Me encuentro profundamente entristecido por el fallecimiento del ex Presidente José Mujica. Mis más sinceras condolencias para su familia, el Gobierno y el pueblo de Uruguay. 

    El Presidente Mujica será recordado no solo por su firme compromiso con la justicia social, la igualdad y la solidaridad, sino también por la forma profundamente humana en la que encarnó esos valores. Lideró con humildad, eligiendo la simplicidad sobre el privilegio, y nos recordó—tanto con sus palabras como con su ejemplo—que el poder debe ejercerse con responsabilidad y compasión. 

    El Presidente Mujica fue un firme defensor del diálogo y el multilateralismo, personificando los valores fundamentales de la Carta de las Naciones Unidas y aportando su autoridad moral a la causa de la paz y los derechos humanos. 
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Senate AG Committee Hearing, Durbin Speaks About Deadly Cost Of Dust Storms, Advocates For Programs To Incentive Farmers To Plant Cover Crops

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    May 13, 2025
    At the top of the hearing, Durbin introduced witness Mrs. Megan Dwyer, Illinoisan and Director of Conservation and Nutrient Stewardship at the Illinois Corn Growers Association
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, introduced Mrs. Megan Dwyer, an Illinoisan and the Director of Conservation and Nutrient Stewardship at the Illinois Corn Growers Association, at today’s Senate Agriculture Committee hearing.  The hearing, entitled “Perspectives from the Field, Part 4: Conservation,” focused on farm conservation programs to promote soil health, water quality, air quality, and wildlife habitats. 
    “This hearing on conservation has brought some wonderful talent and resources to the Committee room this afternoon.  One of them is my special guest, Mrs. Megan Dwyer, of Coal Valley, Illinois.  A fourth-generation farmer, Megan, along with her husband Todd, run crop and livestock operations with their families in both Coal Valley and Geneseo, [Illinois],” Durbin said as he introduced Mrs. Dwyer.  “Megan also serves as Director of Conservation and Nutrient Stewardship for the Illinois Corn Growers, and her expertise in conservation makes her an especially valuable witness today.”
    “She will be sharing her expertise with the Committee – just like she has shared her knowledge with my staff, members of the Illinois delegation, farm groups, and many other on farm conservation practices,” Durbin said.
    Video of Durbin’s remarks is available here.
    Audio of Durbin’s remarks is available here.
    Footage of Durbin’s remarks is available here for TV Stations.
    Following the introduction of Mrs. Dwyer, Durbin asked questions of the Committee’s witnesses.  He began by recalling a deadly 72 car pile-up in Central Illinois in 2023, which was caused by a dust storm, and noted that conservation funds are critical to supporting farmers in planting cover crops that mitigate these dust storms.  He then asked Mrs. Dwyer why Illinois, despite its position as a top agricultural state, receives a disproportionately low level of conservation funds from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
    “Two years ago, my wife was visiting family and called me and told me that something was happening on I-55, which is just south of Springfield.  She said, ‘I’ve been diverted… Must have been an accident.’  It sure was.  In May 2023, on I-55, south of Springfield, there was a 72 vehicle pile-up that took the lives of eight people.  The reason? A dust storm.  The University of Illinois recently completed a study that concluded the lack of ground cover and dry conditions were contributing to that,” Durbin said.
    “Mrs. Dwyer… you indicated that Illinois ranks very low in conservation dollars sent by USDA.  We need more.  Can you explain why we [receive] so few [conservation funds]?” Durbin asked.
    Mrs. Dwyer agreed that Illinois should receive more conservation funds from USDA, but she advocated for more holistic support for farmers, including assistance in completing complex paperwork to request conservation funds as farmers are continually denied funding from the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).
    “Are we dealing with the commitment being there to move forward, but a lack of resources [for farmers]?” Durbin followed up.
    Mrs. Dwyer affirmed Durbin’s line of thinking, and she spoke about the difficult decision for farmers to convert usable land to be used for conservation programs like the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP).  Mrs. Dwyer explained that USDA must consider new and innovative programs to incentivize farmers to plant cover crops on their land.
    Video of Durbin’s remarks is available here.
    Audio of Durbin’s remarks is available here.
    Footage of Durbin’s remarks is available here for TV Stations.
    Durbin has advocated for Illinois to receive USDA conservation funding that is proportionate to Illinois’ ranking as a top agricultural state.  Last August, Durbin led members of the Illinois delegation in writing to USDA, urging the agency to allocate additional conservation funds to Illinois. In her opening statement, Mrs. Dwyer shared that Illinois received an additional $15 million in EQUIP funds last year due to outreach by Durbin and others members of the Illinois delegation to USDA.
    Durbin has also written about the importance of providing farmers with conservation funding, which allows farmers to plant cover crops to mitigate dangerous, and sometimes deadly, dust storms in Central Illinois.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hawley Blasts Pharmacy Benefit Managers for ‘Screwing’ Patients, Calls for Breaking Up ‘Pharma Monopoly’

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo)

    Tuesday, May 13, 2025

    Today, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) blasted pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) for raising drug prices and profiting at the expense of Missourians. 

    Americans pay 422% MORE than other countries for the SAME prescription drugs
    Why? Because Big Pharma & their PBM middlemen are getting rich. It’s not that they’re bad negotiators; their business is DESIGNED to screw patients pic.twitter.com/xebHKnmhYJ
    — Josh Hawley (@HawleyMO) May 13, 2025

    Senator Hawley grilled Pharmaceutical Care Management Association (PCMA) President J.C. Scott, questioning why Americans pay 422% more than other countries for the same brand name prescription drugs. “You’re supposed to be making drugs more affordable for consumers – would you say that you are succeeding?” Senator Hawley asked, before answering his own question: “I think the answer you are looking for is no.” “Either you’re the worst negotiators in the history of the world, or something’s wrong with your business model,” Senator Hawley continued. He then went on to list some notable statistics about Big Pharma and their PBM middlemen, including:
    The three biggest pharmacy benefit managers own 80% of the markets.
    Two counties in Missouri (Knox and Schuyler) do not have access to a single pharmacy due to lack of marketplace competition.
    In fiscal year 2023, 73 pharmacies closed down in Missouri, impacting 19 counties.
    The top three PBMs generated $7.3 billion in revenue from dispensing drugs in excess of the drugs’ estimated acquisition costs from 2017-2022.
    “Missourians are getting screwed while you’re getting rich,” Senator Hawley concluded, emphasizing the need for Congress to pass his bill to break up the alliance between insurance companies, PBMs, and pharmacies.
    Senator Hawley has been a staunch advocate for Missourians at the checkout counter; just last week, he introduced bipartisan legislation to lower drug prices, which was followed up by President Trump’s executive order taking on Big Pharma. Senator Hawley urged Congress to pass this bill also.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DHS Files Emergency SCOTUS Request for Immediate Deportations

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    TdA Threats to Law Enforcement Grow while Illegal Aliens Remain in Custody  

    WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today released a statement after the Department of Justice (DOJ) filed a request Monday for the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) to end a temporary injunction of deportations under the Alien Enemies Act (AEA).   

    The prolonged detention of TdA members in ICE facilities poses serious risks for ICE officers, facility staff, and other detainees, and DHS requests that the SCOTUS moves quickly to allow ICE to remove these terrorist gang members from our country.  

    “23 TdA members barricaded themselves in the Bluebonnet Detention Facility, threatened to take hostages, and endangered officers. Keeping these foreign terrorists in ICE facilities poses a serious threat to ICE officers, staff, and other detainees,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “The media repeated these TdA gang members’ false sob stories, but the truth is these are members of a foreign terrorist organization that rape, maim, and murder for sport.”  

    According to ICE Dallas Acting Field Office Director Joshua Johnson, on April 26, 23 TdA members at Bluebonnet Detention Facility barricaded the doors of their housing unit with bed cots. The detainees also covered surveillance cameras and blocked the housing unit windows.  

    They also threatened to take hostages and injure facility staff and ICE officers in addition to attempting to flood the housing unit by clogging toilets. When they were ordered to take down the barricades, the TdA detainees did not comply with orders and remained barricaded for several hours.  

    Johnson also stated the following regarding the risk of prison recruitment and the expansion of TdA:  

     

    Read the full court filing here.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN Engages with New Zealand Media

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, was interviewed by the Asia Media Centre, on the margins of his Working Visit to New Zealand. The interview covered key topics, including the 50th anniversary of ASEAN-New Zealand dialogue relations, among others.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN Engages with New Zealand Media appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN participates in a roundtable organised by the Asia New Zealand Foundation

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today participated in in the roundtable discussion organised by the Asia New Zealand Foundation in Wellington. Participated by New Zealand’s government officials and academia, the Roundtable focused on geopolitical issues and challenges impacting the region, as well as opportunities to strengthen cooperation on this matter. SG Dr. Kao shared his observations on ASEAN and how it has managed to navigate the evolving geopolitical changes. He further emphasised the need to work together and explore ways to effectively address challenges in this rapidly changing world.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN participates in a roundtable organised by the Asia New Zealand Foundation appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN pays a Courtesy Call on Prime Minister of New Zealand

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today paid a courtesy call on the Prime Minister of New Zealand, The Right Honourable Christopher Luxon, during his Working Visit to New Zealand. The meeting served as a reaffirmation for the strong and enduring ASEAN-New Zealand partnership, which has steadfastly grown and broadened over the past five decades.
     
    SG Dr. Kao and Prime Minister Luxon exchanged views on regional and international developments and pathways to further advance ASEAN-New Zealand ties, including the proposal for the establishment of an ASEAN-New Zealand Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, in conjunction with the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of ASEAN- New Zealand Dialogue Relations this year.

     
    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN pays a Courtesy Call on Prime Minister of New Zealand appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: YONGALA SCHOOL ROAD, CANOWIE BELT (Building Fire)

    Source: South Australia County Fire Service

    CANOWIE BELT

    Issued on
    14 May 2025 11:01

    Canowie Belt Shed Fire

    Issued for CANOWIE BELT in the state’s Mid North.

    The CFS is responding to a shed fire at Canowie Belt, approximately 18 kilometres east of Jamestown, in the Mid North of South Australia.

    CFS volunteers on 8 trucks are on scene working to extinguish the fire and prevent the fire spreading to nearby fields.

    Smoke will be visible for some distance.

    Roads are currently open around this incident, however, this may change at short notice. Continue to monitor at: traffic.sa.gov.au

    Smoke may impact roads in the area, and visibility may be reduced. To ensure your safety and that of firefighters and other emergency personnel who are working in the area, please do not enter the area unless necessary.

    Message ID 0008600

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Green Budget delivers for Māori

    Source: Green Party

    The Green Party is delivering for Māori with its Green Budget.

    “Our Green Budget is a statement: we stand for Te Tiriti o Waitangi, we stand on the right side of history and we stand against this Government,” says the Green Party’s spokesperson for Māori Development, Hūhana Lyndon.

    “Te Tiriti o Waitangi is a promise of protection, for people and planet. This forms the foundations of our Green Budget and our vision for Aotearoa.

    “We have seen this Government undo decades of progress with endless assaults on our people and the lands we live on, all for the benefit of a wealthy few. We will not stand for this. With our Budget we have a way forward that can help us undo the damage that has been done.

    “We will fill the gaps in our health system that have failed our people across generations by bringing back Te Aka Whai Ora and rolling out free GPs across the motu, especially in hard to reach communities.

    “We will build for a future where everyone has a home, with publicly funded kāinga led by Māori. Our tamariki will be set up for success with warm homes, and education that connects them to their culture and unlocks their full potential.

    “Our Hoki Whenua Mai policy means land back for tangata whenua and protection against further takings from the Crown.

    “We can do all of this and more by making this a one-term Government, by demanding the rich pay their fair share and by using Te Tiriti o Waitangi as the poutokomanawa of our whare ora,” says Hūhana Lyndon.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Green Budget: Free GPs for all

    Source: Green Party

    The Green Party has launched its plan for Free GPs as part of its Green Budget.

    “Healthcare isn’t a luxury, it’s a human right we can afford to provide to all,” says Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson.

    “In the last election, we campaigned on providing free dental for all. Today, we’re expanding that to ensure nobody is priced out of receiving the care they need, whether that is from the dentist or the doctor.

    “Successive Governments have failed to invest in the health of our communities, resulting in more and more people falling through the cracks and being left behind. A shocking 44 percent of Māori have an unmet need for primary care.

    “This is just common sense. Free GP visits will reduce the pressure our hospitals are under by stopping small issues becoming big ones that need emergency treatment.

    “Our approach will make sure communities right across the country have access to the care they need with our Community Health Service. We will create community care clinics in the highest need areas first, such as South Auckland, which has an estimated shortage of about 127 GPs.

    “Community not-for-profit primary care providers, such as kaupapa Māori providers, will also be funded to provide free GP and nurse visits alongside the Community Health Service.

    “We will build the workforce we need to support our communities and ensure everyone has access to a GP by maximising the medical student caps at both Auckland and Otago University. This will begin to close workforce gaps and ensure we have what we need to meet increased demand.

    “Rather than leaning on private healthcare and leaving thousands out in the cold like the current Government, we can take control and build a health system that supports all of us and leaves nobody behind,” says Marama Davidson.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Toddler attacked by roaming dogs in front yard

    Source: Secondary teachers question rationale for changes to relationship education guidelines

    A two-year-old child sustained life-threatening injuries in a horrific dog attack in March 2024.

    The young boy was mauled by two dogs while playing in the front yard of his south Auckland home. The unprovoked and sustained attack left him with several serious wounds to his neck and head, and a fractured shoulder blade, requiring multiple surgeries and a prolonged hospital stay.

    The dogs, two American Bulldogs roamed freely into the child’s yard and attacked him without warning.

    Despite heroic efforts by bystanders and the victim’s mother, who physically lifted her child to safety, the dogs continued to attack. CCTV footage confirmed the brutality of the attack, which ended only when the dogs were forcibly removed and driven away by the owners’ relatives.

    On 30 July 2024, the Auckland Council commenced a criminal prosecution against the owner, laying two charges for owning dogs that attacked a person causing serious injury.

    Last week in the Manukau District Court, Judge Moala sentenced the owner, Ms Janna Faumui who had pleaded guilty to the charges, to 150 hours of community work and ordered her to pay $2,000 in emotional harm reparation to the victim’s family.

    Judge Moala considered that where the victim of a dog attack has suffered near-fatal injuries, the starting point for sentence is likely to be one of imprisonment.

    However, the Judge did not consider imprisonment was appropriate in this particular case given the defendant’s lack of criminal history and there being no indication she was a danger to the community. The defendant was given credit for her early guilty pleas, her lack of conviction history and the remorse she had shown for the offending. 

    Chair of the Regulatory and Safety Committee, Councillor Josephine Bartley expressed heartfelt concern for the toddler.

    “It is not okay for dogs to be roaming or uncontrolled. The trauma and injuries inflicted on this child were horrific and entirely preventable,” she said.

    “Dog owners must understand their responsibilities. This is not optional. If they fail in those duties, we will not hesitate to prosecute.”

    Auckland Council’s General Manager of Licensing and Compliance, Robert Irvine, says this is another devastating example of the serious consequences of roaming dogs in our city.

    “We commend the bravery of the bystanders who tried to intervene in the attack,” said Mr Irvine.

    “No one should ever have to witness such violence, especially a parent.”

    “We have increased the number of Animal Management Officers and their proactive patrolling in high-risk areas, and we are doing all we can to prevent incidences like this from happening, but we can’t be everywhere all the time. We need dog owners to take responsibility for their dogs, keep them contained and not allow them to roam,” adds Irvine.

    The council has confirmed both dogs were voluntarily surrendered and euthanised following the attack.

    Auckland Council urges all dog owners to ensure their pets are secure, well-trained, and never allowed to roam.

    “One moment of negligence can result in a lifetime of pain,” says Mr Irvine.

    Further case highlights dangers of careless dog ownership

    In a separate case in the Manukau District Court, Maxine Hona was sentenced to 100 hours of community work and ordered to pay $200 in emotional harm reparation after her dog, Otis, seriously attacked a visitor in her home in March 2024.

    Despite Ms Hona’s attempt to contain her dog before allowing the victim inside, it escaped and launched a persistent attack, injuring both the visitor and Ms Hona herself.

    The court rejected arguments that this was an exceptional incident and made an order for the dog’s destruction.

    Judge Patel stressed that even one-off failures to control dogs can have devastating consequences.

    This case reinforces Auckland Council’s message: pet ownership comes with absolute responsibility. There is no margin for error when it comes to public safety.

    More information about responsible dog ownership is available on the Auckland Council website. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Proposed amendments to the Organic Export Requirements: Recognised Agencies and Persons

    Source: police-emblem-97

    Have your say

    New Zealand Food Safety is consulting on changes to the Organic Export Requirement: Recognised Agencies and Persons (OER: RAP). The OER: RAP forms part of the Official Organic Assurance Programme (OOAP).

    The OER: RAP was last updated in March 2023. Since then, we’ve identified areas where further changes are needed to foster continuous improvement on the requirements for agencies and persons.

    The proposed updates aim to improve definitions, recognition criteria, and suspension rules.

    This consultation is separate to the development of the new Organic Products and Production Act 2023, proposed new regulations, and the national standard for organic food, beverages, and plant and animal products.

    We are accepting submissions from 14 May until 5pm on 11 June 2025.

    What’s being proposed?

    The proposed changes include amendments to:

    • definitions
    • requirements for recognition of agencies and persons
    • requirements for suspension of recognition
    • contract for services as a recognised agency for OOAP, including the addition of a schedule to the contract for health and safety.

    All proposed additions in the draft OER: RAP are highlighted in yellow. Text that we propose to delete from the existing OER: RAP is not shown. Note that your feedback on the draft OER: RAP should be restricted to the proposed amendments.

    Consultation documents

    Draft OER: RAP for consultation [PDF, 967 KB]

    Summary of proposed changes to the OER: RAP [PDF, 200 KB]

    Related document

    Existing Organic Export Requirement: Recognised Agencies and Persons [PDF, 489 KB]

    Making your submission

    Email your feedback on the proposed amendments by 5pm on 11 June 2025 to organics@mpi.govt.nz

    We encourage you to use the submission template.

    Submission template [DOCX, 97 KB]

    While we prefer email, you can post your submission to:

    OOAP: Organic Production Rules Consultation
    Plant, Wine, and Organic Assurance
    Assurance Directorate
    Ministry for Primary Industries
    PO Box 2526
    Wellington 6140
    New Zealand.

    What to include

    Make sure you tell us in your submission:

    • the title of the consultation document
    • your name and title
    • your organisation’s name (if you are submitting on behalf of an organisation, and whether your submission represents the whole organisation or a section of it)
    • your contact details (such as phone number, address, and email).

    Submissions are public information

    Note that all, part, or a summary of your submission may be published on this website. Most often this happens when we issue a document that reviews the submissions received.

    People can also ask for copies of submissions under the Official Information Act 1982 (OIA). The OIA says we must make the content of submissions available unless we have good reason for withholding it. Those reasons are detailed in sections 6 and 9 of the OIA.

    If you think there are grounds to withhold specific information from publication, make this clear in your submission or contact us. Reasons may include that it discloses commercially sensitive or personal information. However, any decision MPI makes to withhold details can be reviewed by the Ombudsman, who may direct us to release it.

    Official Information Act 1982 – NZ Legislation

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Foreign engineer delves into China’s EV industry

    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

    Sitting at his desk, turning on his computer and entering his password, Indian Joseph begins his working day.

    Joseph is an electric drive assembly and testing engineer. This is his third year with Chinese electric vehicle company NIO and his 13th year in China.

    For Joseph, the rapid technological changes in the EV industry are an opportunity to constantly learn new things. “Unlike the traditional automotive industry, there are so many new, constantly improving technologies in EVs. As someone who works at the forefront of R&D, I am constantly exposed to new things, and my technical knowledge and skills are constantly being enriched,” says Joseph.

    Hu Bo, Joseph’s colleague and also an electric drive assembly and testing engineer, praises him: “Joseph has more than ten years of experience in the electric vehicle industry. He is an excellent engineer and has unique methods for solving complex technical problems.”

    “As a global company, overseas engineers are an important part of NIO’s technology ecosystem, helping us better interact with the global market. In order for China’s EV industry to maintain its leading position, it is necessary to attract global innovation resources,” Hu Bo said.

    Thirteen years ago, Joseph, a graduate in automotive engineering from Coventry University in the UK, came to China with hope and excitement.

    Joseph’s initial work was not as an automotive engineer, but at a consulting firm specializing in the automotive industry. “At the time, the Chinese EV industry was in its infancy, and we were mostly doing market analysis,” Joseph says.

    In 2022, Joseph moved to Hefei, Anhui Province, and became an electric vehicle engineer. He believes that, like many Chinese electric vehicle companies, NIO has strong innovation capabilities, and he enjoys challenging and creative work. “Here, I don’t have to follow a template, and I can always implement my ideas.”

    Having worked in China for over a decade, Joseph has witnessed the rapid development of China’s electric vehicle industry: “When I first came here, I never imagined that electric vehicles would develop so quickly in China and would be in every home within a few years.”

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: What will China’s 15th Five-Year Plan be like?

    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

    The “Fifteenth Five-Year Plan” (2026–2030) – what place will it occupy in the historical coordinates of the Chinese nation’s rejuvenation process and in the era of accelerating, unprecedented changes in the world? What will these five years be like?

    These will be five years marked by important historical events. In 2026, we will celebrate the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China. In 2027, the 100th anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army of China. In 2029, the 80th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

    These will be five years of further acceleration of unprecedented changes in the world.

    Beginning with the Fourteenth Five-Year Plan, a new round of scientific, technological and industrial revolution gives a powerful impetus to the development of productive forces.

    The balance of power in the international arena is changing. The main theme remains the confrontation between multilateralism and unilateralism. Local conflicts and instability have become more frequent, global problems have become more acute, and external pressure and containment are increasing.

    China has entered a period characterized by strategic opportunities, risks, and challenges, as well as increasing uncertainty and unpredictability. The trend toward accelerating global changes, unprecedented in the past hundred years, will inevitably continue during the Fifteenth Five-Year Plan period.

    This is one of three key five-year periods on the path to the basic realization of socialist modernization by 2035.

    According to the strategic plans adopted at the 20th CPC National Congress, China aims to basically complete socialist modernization by 2035 by implementing three five-year programs: the Fourteenth, Fifteenth and Sixteenth. The Fourteenth Five-Year Plan is the starting point, the Sixteenth Five-Year Plan is the finishing line, and the Fifteenth Five-Year Plan is the key transition stage.

    This is the stage of completion of all reform tasks outlined by the 3rd Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee.

    At the Third Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee held in July last year, more than 300 major reform tasks were proposed and a clear timetable was set: “Complete the reform tasks set out in this decision by the 80th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 2029.”

    2029 is the fourth year of the “Fifteenth Five-Year Plan”. Chinese-style modernization is the theme, and further comprehensive deepening of reform is the content. The Five-Year Plan is a development plan. To implement this plan, it is necessary to actively carry out reforms and adjust production relations.

    The “Fifteenth Five-Year Plan” is destined to become a period of even more large-scale and profound reforms.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The growth rate and potential of the Chinese market are attractive to American companies

    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

    Peng Zhenke, president of Pfizer China and chairman of the executive committee of the pharmaceutical research and development working committee of the China Association of Foreign-Invested Enterprises, recently announced Pfizer’s plans to invest another US$1 billion in China by 2030. The company has already opened a new research and development center in Beijing and an innovation center in Hangzhou.

    Zhang Jianping, deputy director of the academic committee of the Institute of International Trade and Economic Cooperation under the Ministry of Commerce of China, noted that investments by American companies in China can be divided into two main categories:

    First, market-oriented: companies that provide goods and services directly to the Chinese market, such as Tesla, Starbucks, and General Motors, which make significant profits in China.

    Second, global supply chain oriented: companies that use China as an important base for organizing supply chains and creating added value on a global scale, seeking maximum benefit. A typical example is Apple.

    China has enormous growth potential, making it particularly attractive to American companies, especially multinational corporations.

    Cui Shoujun, a professor at the School of International Relations at Renmin University of China, identifies three key aspects that determine the irreplaceable strategic value of the Chinese market for many American companies:

    First, the advantages of a super-large market: China, with a population of over 1.4 billion and a middle-income group of over 400 million, has huge demand. Growing urbanization in China has driven steady growth in demand for home appliances, automobiles, communications, medical services and other consumer goods.

    Secondly, the obvious advantages of the full industrial chain: China has 41 major industrial categories, 207 medium sub-categories and 666 minor sub-categories, being the only country in the world represented in all industrial sectors of the UN classification. China’s supply chain is not only comprehensive and complete, but also extremely flexible and responsive.

    Third, continuous expansion of high-level opening-up and optimization of the business environment: China creates favorable conditions for the development of foreign companies, including American ones.

    Peng Yu, director of the International Trade Research Department at the Institute of World Economy, Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, stressed that the Chinese market provides American companies with many business and profit opportunities. China is the largest export market for American soybeans and cotton, the second-largest export market for integrated circuits and coal, and the third-largest export market for medical equipment and automobiles.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: PNG police authorised to use lethal force with ‘domestic terrorist’ kidnappers as one hostage escapes

    RNZ Pacific

    An escape of a 13-year-old girl from a hostage crisis on the border of Papua New Guinea’s Western and Hela provinces has boosted hopes for the rescue of her fellow captives.

    The group of 10 people was taken captive early on Monday morning at Adujmari.

    PNG Police Commissioner David Manning has called the perpetrators “domestic terrorists” and warned that officers were able to use lethal force if needed to secure the release of the hostages.

    The girl Aiyo’s fellow captives are four adults — a teacher and his wife, and a health worker and his wife — along with another four school girls.

    The Post-Courier reports that the kidnappers have demanded the government pay a ransom of K500,000 (NZ$207,000) for the safe release of the captives.

    Aiyo has told police that the kidnappers had threatened to harm the group if no money was forthcoming.

    Assistant Commissioner of Police, Commander Steven Francis, said officers were working around the clock to secure their safe release.

    Locals in the Adujmari district have so far raised more than K11,000 (NZ4500) to try and negotiate the safe release of the group.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese FM meets Brazilian guests in Beijing

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

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Brazilian Minister of Foreign Affairs Mauro Vieira, and Celso Amorim, special advisor to the president of Brazil, in Beijing, capital of China, May 12, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    BEIJING, May 13 — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, met with his Brazilian counterpart Mauro Vieira, and Celso Amorim, special advisor to the president of Brazil, in Beijing on Monday.

    Both sides reviewed the frequent exchanges between the two heads of state in recent years, and made preparations for Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s visit to China, especially the important talks about to be held between the two heads of state.

    They unanimously agreed to promote the building of a China-Brazil community with a shared future in accordance with the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, adhere to multilateralism, safeguard common international rules and the legitimate rights and interests of the Global South, and make contributions to promoting world peace, stability and development.

    The two sides also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis and other issues, expressing support for direct dialogue and negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, and pledged to play their role in the Group of Friends for Peace to gather more international consensus for promoting the political settlement of the crisis.

    MIL OSI China News –