NewzIntel.com

Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI Security: CEO of Iranian Engineering Company Arrested for Allegedly Shipping Sophisticated Electronics to Iran in Violation of U.S. Sanctions

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – An Iranian national and United States lawful permanent resident has been arrested on a four-count federal indictment charging him with unlawfully exporting electronics used in railway signaling and telecommunications systems from the United States to Iran, in violation of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and the Iranian Transactions and Sanctions Regulations (ITSR).

    Bahram Mohammad Ostovari, 66, a resident of Tehran, Iran, and Santa Monica, was arrested Thursday afternoon upon his arrival at Los Angeles International Airport.

    Ostovari is charged with one count of conspiracy to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and three counts of violating the IEEPA.

    He pleaded not guilty to the charges at his arraignment today in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. A federal magistrate judge ordered him released on $1.3 million bond and scheduled a September 2 trial date.

    According to the indictment unsealed today, Ostovari is the founder and CEO of a Tehran-based engineering company – identified in the indictment as “Company A” – that supplied signaling and communications systems to Iran and its government, including on projects for the Islamic Republic of Iran Railways. From at least May 2018 to July 2025, Ostovari and his co-conspirators obtained and shipped sophisticated computer processors, railway signaling equipment, and other electronics and electronic components to Company A in Iran. Many of these items were controlled under federal regulations, and their export to Iran without a license was prohibited.

    To perpetrate his illegal export scheme, Ostovari used two front companies he controlled in the UAE – MH-SYS FZCO and Match Systech FZE – as conduits. Ostovari directed co-conspirators at these front companies to acquire the electronics and electronic components for Company A. Ostovari and his co-conspirators intentionally concealed from electronics suppliers in the United States and elsewhere that the goods were destined for Iran, falsely stating that MH-SYS and Match Systech in the UAE were the end users when in fact the true end user was Company A in Iran. Ostovari then directed his co-conspirators to arrange to ship the goods from the UAE to Company A in Iran.

    After he became a lawful permanent resident of the United States in May 2020, Ostovari continued to export, sell, and supply electronics and electrical components to Company A in Iran.

    Ostovari knew of the U.S. sanctions against Iran, mentioning them in emails to co-conspirators and directing one co-conspirator to provide false information to a federal export control officer regarding the end use of U.S.-origin goods they had shipped to Company A in Iran.

    The IEEPA and the ITSR impose controls and restrictions on transactions involving Iran based on the threats posed by Iran to the national security of the United States including, among others, its pursuit of nuclear weapons and sponsorship of terrorism. The IEEPA and ITSR, among other things, prohibit the export, re-export, sale, or supply, directly or indirectly, from the United States or by a United States person, wherever located, of any goods, technology, or services to Iran or the Government of Iran without first obtaining authorization from the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

    At no time did Ostovari, his companies, or his co-conspirators apply for or obtain authorization from OFAC to export, sell or supply goods and technologies from the United States to Iran.

    An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.

    If convicted, Ostovari would face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each count.

    Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security Office of Export Enforcement, and IRS Criminal Investigation are investigating this matter.

    Assistant United States Attorneys David C. Lachman and Colin S. Scott of the Terrorism and Export Crimes Section are prosecuting this case. Trial Attorney Kathryn DeMarco of the Justice Department National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section provided valuable assistance.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: CEO of Iranian Engineering Company Arrested for Allegedly Shipping Sophisticated Electronics to Iran in Violation of U.S. Sanctions

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – An Iranian national and United States lawful permanent resident has been arrested on a four-count federal indictment charging him with unlawfully exporting electronics used in railway signaling and telecommunications systems from the United States to Iran, in violation of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and the Iranian Transactions and Sanctions Regulations (ITSR).

    Bahram Mohammad Ostovari, 66, a resident of Tehran, Iran, and Santa Monica, was arrested Thursday afternoon upon his arrival at Los Angeles International Airport.

    Ostovari is charged with one count of conspiracy to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and three counts of violating the IEEPA.

    He pleaded not guilty to the charges at his arraignment today in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. A federal magistrate judge ordered him released on $1.3 million bond and scheduled a September 2 trial date.

    According to the indictment unsealed today, Ostovari is the founder and CEO of a Tehran-based engineering company – identified in the indictment as “Company A” – that supplied signaling and communications systems to Iran and its government, including on projects for the Islamic Republic of Iran Railways. From at least May 2018 to July 2025, Ostovari and his co-conspirators obtained and shipped sophisticated computer processors, railway signaling equipment, and other electronics and electronic components to Company A in Iran. Many of these items were controlled under federal regulations, and their export to Iran without a license was prohibited.

    To perpetrate his illegal export scheme, Ostovari used two front companies he controlled in the UAE – MH-SYS FZCO and Match Systech FZE – as conduits. Ostovari directed co-conspirators at these front companies to acquire the electronics and electronic components for Company A. Ostovari and his co-conspirators intentionally concealed from electronics suppliers in the United States and elsewhere that the goods were destined for Iran, falsely stating that MH-SYS and Match Systech in the UAE were the end users when in fact the true end user was Company A in Iran. Ostovari then directed his co-conspirators to arrange to ship the goods from the UAE to Company A in Iran.

    After he became a lawful permanent resident of the United States in May 2020, Ostovari continued to export, sell, and supply electronics and electrical components to Company A in Iran.

    Ostovari knew of the U.S. sanctions against Iran, mentioning them in emails to co-conspirators and directing one co-conspirator to provide false information to a federal export control officer regarding the end use of U.S.-origin goods they had shipped to Company A in Iran.

    The IEEPA and the ITSR impose controls and restrictions on transactions involving Iran based on the threats posed by Iran to the national security of the United States including, among others, its pursuit of nuclear weapons and sponsorship of terrorism. The IEEPA and ITSR, among other things, prohibit the export, re-export, sale, or supply, directly or indirectly, from the United States or by a United States person, wherever located, of any goods, technology, or services to Iran or the Government of Iran without first obtaining authorization from the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

    At no time did Ostovari, his companies, or his co-conspirators apply for or obtain authorization from OFAC to export, sell or supply goods and technologies from the United States to Iran.

    An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.

    If convicted, Ostovari would face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each count.

    Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security Office of Export Enforcement, and IRS Criminal Investigation are investigating this matter.

    Assistant United States Attorneys David C. Lachman and Colin S. Scott of the Terrorism and Export Crimes Section are prosecuting this case. Trial Attorney Kathryn DeMarco of the Justice Department National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section provided valuable assistance.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican national, illegally living in Beaumont, guilty of immigration violations in the Eastern District of Texas

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BEAUMONT, Texas –A Mexican national has pleaded guilty to an immigration violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.

    Jesus Adame-Nunez, 43, a Mexican national illegally residing in Beaumont, pleaded guilty to illegal reentry by a previously deported person before U.S. Magistrate Judge Zack Hawthorn on July 10, 2025.

    According to information presented in court, Adame-Nunez was arrested in Beaumont on February 11, 2025, after an investigation revealed that he had been previously deported from the United States to Mexico in 2006.

    Adame-Nunez faces up to 2 years in federal prison and deportation at sentencing.  The maximum statutory sentence prescribed by Congress is provided here for information purposes, as the sentencing will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.  A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the U.S. Probation Office.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    This case was investigated by Department of Homeland Security-Immigration and Customs Enforcement and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Jackson. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican national, illegally living in Beaumont, guilty of immigration violations in the Eastern District of Texas

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BEAUMONT, Texas –A Mexican national has pleaded guilty to an immigration violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.

    Jesus Adame-Nunez, 43, a Mexican national illegally residing in Beaumont, pleaded guilty to illegal reentry by a previously deported person before U.S. Magistrate Judge Zack Hawthorn on July 10, 2025.

    According to information presented in court, Adame-Nunez was arrested in Beaumont on February 11, 2025, after an investigation revealed that he had been previously deported from the United States to Mexico in 2006.

    Adame-Nunez faces up to 2 years in federal prison and deportation at sentencing.  The maximum statutory sentence prescribed by Congress is provided here for information purposes, as the sentencing will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.  A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the U.S. Probation Office.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    This case was investigated by Department of Homeland Security-Immigration and Customs Enforcement and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Jackson. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • PM Modi hands out 51,000 appointment letters in 16th Rozgar Mela, says youth driving nation-building

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday distributed over 51,000 appointment letters to newly-inducted recruits in various Central government departments and organisations through video conferencing during the 16th edition of the Rozgar Mela.

    The employment drive was conducted simultaneously at 47 locations across the country.

    According to an official statement, the new recruits, selected from across India, will be joining key departments including the Ministry of Railways, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Department of Posts, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the Department of Financial Services, and the Ministry of Labour and Employment, among others.

    Addressing the new appointees, PM Modi said, “Our campaign to hand out appointment letters to youth in the Central Government is underway. Today, over 51,000 youth have been given appointment letters. Through such employment initiatives, till now, lakhs of youth have secured permanent jobs in the Indian government. These individuals are now contributing significantly to nation-building.”

    He highlighted the wide spectrum of departments where the recruits will be deployed, highlighting their contribution to diverse national missions.

    “Many of you have started your careers in Indian Railways, and many will be a part of India’s security. People appointed in the postal department will take the government’s initiatives to every village. Many will be a part of the ‘Health for All’ mission, some will enhance the engine of financial inclusion, and others will further strengthen the industrial development of the country. Your department might be different, but the focus is one — service to the nation and ‘Citizen First’,” he said.

    The Prime Minister congratulated the appointees and wished them well as they begin their new professional journey.

    Stressing India’s “unlimited power — demography and democracy,” PM Modi said, “India has the largest youth population and the largest democracy. This is India’s most cherished wealth and guarantee. Our government is working day and night to make this wealth a source of progress.”

    Referring to his recent international engagements, PM Modi said, “Two days ago, I returned from a five-nation tour. In every country, India’s youth power was acknowledged. The agreements made during this tour will all benefit Indian youth.”

    Launched on October 22, 2022, the Rozgar Mela is part of the Prime Minister’s mission to prioritise employment generation. It is aimed at expediting recruitment across government departments and organisations and ensuring that vacant posts do not slow down public service delivery.

    Official data reveals that more than 10 lakh appointment letters have been issued across the country through Rozgar Melas since its inception.

    The initiative has played a key role in streamlining recruitment, improving efficiency in public services, and strengthening critical infrastructure in schools, hospitals, railway stations, police units, and tax offices.

    The appointees under the Rozgar Mela will serve in a variety of sectors, reinforcing the government’s workforce and contributing towards national development goals.

    By accelerating the selection process, the initiative is ensuring that employment generation remains at the core of India’s governance agenda.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese Foreign Minister Outlines China’s Position on South China Sea Arbitration Case

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    KUALA LUMPUR, July 12 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, on Friday outlined China’s position on the South China Sea (SCS) arbitration case while attending a series of ASEAN Plus foreign ministers’ meetings.

    Wang Yi said the arbitration, initiated unilaterally by the Philippines, lacked the necessary requirement of prior consultations and did not respect the principle of state consent, which is fundamental to arbitration. Thus, there was no legal basis for it to be heard from the outset.

    The move violated the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, which stipulates that disputes should be resolved peacefully through friendly consultations between the parties directly concerned. Wang noted that it also contradicts the Philippines’ commitments under bilateral agreements with China and violates the principle of estoppel under international law.

    The Chinese Foreign Minister noted that although the arbitration had taken various forms, the substance of the Philippines’ claims concerned China’s territorial sovereignty over the Nansha Islands and maritime delimitation issues. Territorial issues are outside the scope of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and China had categorically excluded maritime delimitation from binding arbitration in a statement made in 2006, in line with UNCLOS’s provisions on optional exceptions to the applicability of the UNCLOS.

    According to Wang Yi, of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, only the United States has not acceded to the Convention, while the other four countries, including China, have made similar exclusion statements. The arbitral tribunal has exceeded its mandate and abused the UNCLOS dispute settlement mechanism, undermining the rule of law in international maritime affairs and committing acts contrary to the very Convention to which it claimed to adhere.

    Wang Yi stressed that the arbitration tribunal’s decision contained serious factual and legal inaccuracies. In particular, it erroneously classified Taiping Island, the largest naturally formed island in the Nansha Islands with an area of more than 500,000 square meters, as a rock, thereby concluding that no feature in the Nansha Islands could form an exclusive economic zone or continental shelf. The decision contradicts both the facts on the ground and the provisions of UNCLOS. If such a standard were applied worldwide, the existing maritime order would be fundamentally changed, Wang Yi said, questioning whether countries such as the United States and Japan would be willing to give up their maritime claims under this logic.

    According to the minister, it is widely acknowledged that the arbitration and subsequent hoopla were orchestrated and manipulated by forces outside the region to undermine peace in the SCS and further their own interests. More and more countries around the world are coming to understand the nature of this farce.

    China’s position, the Foreign Minister emphasized, is precisely to support the principle of the supremacy of international law and the authority of UNCLOS. Thanks to the joint efforts of China and ASEAN countries, the situation in the South China Sea remains stable, and freedom of navigation and flights is effectively protected.

    China is accelerating consultations with ASEAN countries on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, seeking to create a new atmosphere of peace, cooperation and friendship in the region. Any attempt to stir up trouble or sow discord will fail, the foreign minister said. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s digital infrastructure opens up new opportunities for SCO cooperation

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    TIANJIN, July 12 (Xinhua) — The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Digital Economic Forum was held in north China’s Tianjin City from Thursday to Friday, with the theme of “New Links of the Digital Economy, Jointly Expanding New Horizons of Cooperation.”

    At the event, participants noted the need to actively promote the interconnectedness of digital infrastructure and jointly expand new space for the development of digital economic cooperation.

    “The digital economy is the Silk Road of the new era, connecting countries through data, not through valleys and deserts as was traditionally the case,” said former Egyptian Minister of Administrative Development and former chairman of the Suez Canal Economic Zone Ahmed Darwish.

    He said China’s BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS) and Internet of Things technology solutions are boosting Egypt’s computing infrastructure construction, which will greatly benefit the local digital economy.

    Chen Zhongyue, Chairman of China United Network Communications Group Co., Ltd, said that building an efficient, intelligent, green and secure regional network infrastructure will help countries make full use of their resources and better integrate into the global industrial chain, supply chain and value chain to achieve common development.

    “Chinese enterprises are actively involved in the construction of the 5G network and the construction of a “smart city” in Uzbekistan,” said Daniyar Kurbanov, head of the department for the study of historical and cultural heritage and humanitarian research at the International Institute of Central Asian Studies of Uzbekistan.

    He stressed that cooperation between China and other SCO countries is becoming an important benchmark for Central Asian countries in achieving digital transformation.

    Let us recall that the forum, jointly organized by the State Data Administration of the People’s Republic of China and the Tianjin People’s Government, was attended by more than 1,500 guests representing governments, enterprises, universities and think tanks of the SCO member states. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A regular bus route has opened linking China’s Yanji and Russia’s Vladivostok

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    CHANGCHUN, July 12 (Xinhua) — A regular passenger bus route has recently been launched between Yanji (northeast China’s Jilin Province) and Russia’s Vladivostok.

    The total length of the route is 399.2 km, travel time is 8 hours 50 minutes. Currently, buses depart from Yanji and Vladivostok daily, and in the future the frequency of trips will increase depending on passenger traffic.

    Yanji City, the capital of Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture (YKAO) in Jilin Province, is located more than 100 km from the border city of Hunchun, located at the junction of the state borders of China, Russia and the DPRK. In recent years, YKAO has become one of the main tourist destinations for residents of the Russian Far East. To meet the needs of tourists, transport companies of YKAO and Primorsky Krai signed an agreement last year to launch the above-mentioned route.

    As it became known, travelers on the new route will enjoy benefits such as customs clearance immediately upon arrival. In order to provide tourists from the two countries with safe and comfortable travel conditions, the Chinese side provides 50-seater luxury buses and charter services using luxury 9-seater minivans. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Health chief attends Nanjing forum

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau attended the 13th Nanjing Academic Symposium on Hepatobiliary Surgery & Liver Transplantation in Nanjing today to share with liver transplant experts from around the world Hong Kong’s latest developments in organ transplantation, and the work of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government in co-operation with the Mainland on organ donation and transplantation.
     
    In his address at the opening ceremony, Prof Lo said: “Hong Kong and the Mainland have a long-standing collaboration in hepatobiliary surgery. I have personally witnessed experts from both places jointly performing a number of complex liver transplant surgeries, achieving in-depth integration of technology and resources, which is an exemplary model of medical co-operation under the ‘one country, two systems’ framework.

    “In recent years, Hong Kong and the Mainland have also made breakthroughs in organ donation and transplantation. In December 2022 and February this year, two cases of cross-boundary heart donation successfully saved the lives of two infants, exemplifying to the fullest the inseparable ties between the Mainland and Hong Kong as well as our shared principle and mission in protecting and saving lives.”
     
    Apart from stressing that with the accumulation of experience, the channels and procedures for handling urgent cross-boundary organ transplant requests have now been streamlined and standardised, Prof Lo made it clear that the Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to explore arrangements for regularising this mechanism.
     
    He also shared the latest developments in the prevention and control of liver disease in Hong Kong.
     
    “Since 1988, Hong Kong has provided universal hepatitis B vaccination for all newborns, significantly reducing infection rates among younger generations.
     
    “As outlined in last year’s Policy Address, the Chief Executive also proposed to implement hepatitis B screening to prevent liver cancer. If patients can be identified at an early stage, it will facilitate early identification and early treatment, thereby effectively reducing risks of developing complications including cirrhosis and liver cancer.”
     
    Prof Lo then visited the Jiangsu Province Hospital (the First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University), where he exchanged views and shared experiences on enhancing hospital management and services with the hospital’s President Prof Liu Yun.
     
    He highlighted that the Hospital Authority is adopting China’s International Hospital Accreditation Standards (2021 Version) developed by the Shenzhen Hospital Accreditation Research Centre to resume the hospital accreditation programme at its public hospitals.
     
    Moreover, the authority seeks to optimise the diagnosis process of the relevant specialties and improve the treatment outcomes through the establishment of the first stroke centre at Tuen Mun Hospital, as well as chest pain centres at both Queen Mary Hospital and Prince of Wales Hospital.
     
    Prof Lo added that the Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to promote the accreditation programme under the standards as well as the establishment of chest pain centres and stroke centres.
     
    “These initiatives will not only improve healthcare integration within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and support Hong Kong’s integration into national development, but also leverage Hong Kong’s advantages of enjoying strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world, so as to demonstrate the excellence of the national hospital accreditation standards to the international community.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Happy birthday to Marina Grigorieva!

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Official website of the State –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    This Saturday there is a reason and opportunity to celebrate the birthday of the director of the Pre-University of the State University of Management, Marina Grigorieva.

    Pre-University is the first stage in the system of seamless project-based learning at the State University of Management. Marina Yuryevna helps students overcome this stage, begin to get used to adult life and learn responsibility for their future. The combination of the strictness necessary to maintain discipline and a motherly attitude towards her charges creates a pleasant working environment for schoolchildren in Pre-University.

    Let us wish one of the most kind-hearted directors at the State University of Management the unfailing love of his students and the respect of his colleagues, pedagogical resourcefulness, interesting methodological solutions, success in his work, good health and all-consuming happiness, as well as the spiritual strength for the annual separation from his children who have become almost his own.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SHYA to visit Beijing and Sichuan

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak, will depart tomorrow (July 13) to visit Beijing and Sichuan. She will call on the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the Sichuan Provincial People’s Government, and relevant ministries and institutions to deepen exchanges and co-operation with the Mainland in areas of youth development, district governance, women’s development and religious affairs.
     
    Miss Mak will attend the inauguration ceremonies of the Hong Kong-Macao Youth Internship Programme at Palace Museum and the Youth Internship Programme at Chinese Academy of Sciences, as well as the closing ceremony of the Youth Internship Programme at Wolong Region of Giant Panda National Park. These three programmes are under the HYAB Thematic Youth Internship Programmes to the Mainland 2025 that are jointly organised by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and the cultural, scientific research and nature conservation institutions on the Mainland. Through diverse thematic internship opportunities, the programmes aim to help Hong Kong youths gain a deeper understanding of the country’s development and acquire knowledge of relevant disciplines and professional fields. Miss Mak will meet with the interns and learn about their lives and experiences on the Mainland.
     
    During Miss Mak’s visit to Beijing, the Permanent Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Ms Shirley Lam; the Director of Home Affairs, Ms Priscilla To; and the Deputy Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs (Home Affairs), Mr Paul Wong, will also accompany her.
    　
    Miss Mak will return to Hong Kong on the afternoon of July 18. During her absence, the Under Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Mr Clarence Leung, will act as the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SHYA to visit Beijing and Sichuan

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak, will depart tomorrow (July 13) to visit Beijing and Sichuan. She will call on the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the Sichuan Provincial People’s Government, and relevant ministries and institutions to deepen exchanges and co-operation with the Mainland in areas of youth development, district governance, women’s development and religious affairs.
     
    Miss Mak will attend the inauguration ceremonies of the Hong Kong-Macao Youth Internship Programme at Palace Museum and the Youth Internship Programme at Chinese Academy of Sciences, as well as the closing ceremony of the Youth Internship Programme at Wolong Region of Giant Panda National Park. These three programmes are under the HYAB Thematic Youth Internship Programmes to the Mainland 2025 that are jointly organised by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and the cultural, scientific research and nature conservation institutions on the Mainland. Through diverse thematic internship opportunities, the programmes aim to help Hong Kong youths gain a deeper understanding of the country’s development and acquire knowledge of relevant disciplines and professional fields. Miss Mak will meet with the interns and learn about their lives and experiences on the Mainland.
     
    During Miss Mak’s visit to Beijing, the Permanent Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Ms Shirley Lam; the Director of Home Affairs, Ms Priscilla To; and the Deputy Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs (Home Affairs), Mr Paul Wong, will also accompany her.
    　
    Miss Mak will return to Hong Kong on the afternoon of July 18. During her absence, the Under Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Mr Clarence Leung, will act as the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE listens to advisers’ views

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Chief Executive’s Council of Advisers (CECA), chaired by Chief Executive John Lee, held luncheon meetings for three consecutive days, from July 9 to 11, to listen to the views expressed by advisers for the upcoming Policy Address and the overall development of Hong Kong.

    Mr Lee pointed out that the three meeting sessions are the first for the new term of CECA members.

    He noted that during the meetings, the advisers emphasised that Hong Kong is bestowed with its unique advantages of connecting with both the Mainland and the world, excellent education and research capabilities, and advantageous geographical location, and it is also an international financial centre with free flow of capital.

    He highlighted that such advantages would greatly attract Mainland enterprises to list in Hong Kong and use the city as the gateway to go global.

    The CECA conducted in-depth discussions on a range of important issues under three major themes, namely economic advancement and sustainability, innovation and entrepreneurship, and regional and global collaborations.

    Mr Lee emphasised that members of the council are all distinguished and eminent leaders in their respective fields or internationally renowned scholars, experts or entrepreneurs.

    He thanked all members for actively providing him with valuable insights and wise counsel regarding the current situation and vision for future developments of Hong Kong. These contributions have provided important references for the overall development strategies of Hong Kong and the upcoming Policy Address.

    The three meeting sessions were chaired by the Chief Executive. Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki, Acting Financial Secretary Michael Wong, Acting Secretary for Justice Cheung Kwok-kwan, Director of the Chief Executive’s Office Carol Yip and Head of the Chief Executive’s Policy Unit Stephen Wong attended the three sessions respectively.

    The Chief Executive will deliver his fourth Policy Address this September, for which the public consultation commenced on June 16.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE listens to advisers’ views

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Chief Executive’s Council of Advisers (CECA), chaired by Chief Executive John Lee, held luncheon meetings for three consecutive days, from July 9 to 11, to listen to the views expressed by advisers for the upcoming Policy Address and the overall development of Hong Kong.

    Mr Lee pointed out that the three meeting sessions are the first for the new term of CECA members.

    He noted that during the meetings, the advisers emphasised that Hong Kong is bestowed with its unique advantages of connecting with both the Mainland and the world, excellent education and research capabilities, and advantageous geographical location, and it is also an international financial centre with free flow of capital.

    He highlighted that such advantages would greatly attract Mainland enterprises to list in Hong Kong and use the city as the gateway to go global.

    The CECA conducted in-depth discussions on a range of important issues under three major themes, namely economic advancement and sustainability, innovation and entrepreneurship, and regional and global collaborations.

    Mr Lee emphasised that members of the council are all distinguished and eminent leaders in their respective fields or internationally renowned scholars, experts or entrepreneurs.

    He thanked all members for actively providing him with valuable insights and wise counsel regarding the current situation and vision for future developments of Hong Kong. These contributions have provided important references for the overall development strategies of Hong Kong and the upcoming Policy Address.

    The three meeting sessions were chaired by the Chief Executive. Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki, Acting Financial Secretary Michael Wong, Acting Secretary for Justice Cheung Kwok-kwan, Director of the Chief Executive’s Office Carol Yip and Head of the Chief Executive’s Policy Unit Stephen Wong attended the three sessions respectively.

    The Chief Executive will deliver his fourth Policy Address this September, for which the public consultation commenced on June 16.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Telling the truth about Xinjiang: French writer Maxime Vivas wins Orchid Award

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

    Maxime Vivas (R2) receives the Outstanding Achievement Award at the second Orchid Awards ceremony held in Beijing, July 10, 2025. [Photo courtesy of China International Communications Group]

    “In today’s world, where the destinies of all nations are increasingly interconnected, Western countries need to better understand China. We should enhance dialogue across all fields to help more Westerners understand the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind and promote the common values of humanity,” said French writer Maxime Vivas at the second Orchid Awards ceremony held on Thursday in Beijing.

    The Orchid Awards aim to advance the Global Civilization Initiative and honor international individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to promoting shared human values, fostering dialogue among civilizations, and strengthening the cultural foundations of building a global community with a shared future for mankind. Vivas received the Outstanding Achievement Award for his longstanding commitment to objective and fair reporting on Xinjiang and his exceptional contributions to international communication.

    In 2018, Vivas conducted a ten-day field visit to the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC). The experience led to the publication of his book “Uygurs, To Put an End to Fake News,” which gained significant traction in the West. The book sparked widespread discussions in Western media and among the public, igniting what some called a “Xinjiang truth wave.”

    During his visit, Vivas explored local neighborhoods and engaged in extensive conversations with people from various ethnic backgrounds. “I saw young people dressed in either fashionable clothes or traditional garments. Some were shopping, others were enjoying coffee in cafés. I chatted casually with locals, and some kids even ran over to take selfies with me. What I witnessed was a peaceful and pleasant daily life — completely different from what is portrayed in Western media,” Vivas recalled.

    He was especially impressed by the XPCC’s efforts to improve local livelihoods. “I met a Uygur woman entrepreneur who used to farm at home. With government support, she started her own textile business. Through her hard work, her enterprise gradually grew, her family income rose significantly, and her child was able to study abroad. She also created jobs for other villagers. These real-life encounters helped me truly appreciate the XPCC’s role in helping people from all ethnic backgrounds increase their incomes,” he said.

    Vivas also visited newly built housing for villagers. “The homes, built with support from the corps, were located near residents’ original homes and included modern amenities like running water, natural gas, broadband internet, and contemporary appliances. I saw how happy the villagers were to move into their new homes. The XPCC invested substantial resources to improve living conditions and significantly enhanced the well-being of people of all ethnic groups.”

    “Xinjiang was once relatively underdeveloped, but the Chinese government implemented targeted support policies — such as encouraging Uygur people to start businesses and helping Uygur students access higher education. The region’s long-standing social stability is closely tied to these effective policies. Western lies about Xinjiang cannot hold up against facts. I hope more Westerners will come see this beautiful place for themselves,” Vivas concluded.

    Hosted by China International Communications Group and organized by the Orchid Awards Secretariat, the second Orchid Awards ceremony gathered more than 300 participants, including representatives from central government departments, international organizations, foreign embassies, think tanks, and media outlets.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Animated film brings Pu Songling’s supernatural tales to life

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

    The animated fantasy anthology “Curious Tales of a Temple” premiered in Beijing on July 8, drawing on classic supernatural stories from “Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio,” a 17th-century collection by Pu Songling.

    Animators, producers and voice cast pose for a photo at the premiere of “Curious Tales of a Temple” in Beijing, July 8, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Table Film]

    The film, co-directed by six animators — Cui Yuemei, Liu Yuan, Xie Junwei, Zou Jing, Huang Heyu and Liu Yilin — follows author Pu as he encounters toad and turtle spirits in the well of the abandoned Lanruo Temple. The spirits challenge him to judge their storytelling contest, with each spirit narrating two supernatural tales. As the contest unfolds, Pu finds himself drawn deeper into their world of ghosts and legends.

    All the stories offer new interpretations of “Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio,” blending folklore, fantasy and moral lessons. The anthology features scholars, ghosts, spirits and shape-shifting creatures confronting questions of virtue, retribution and the mystical.

    As the 10th feature-length production from Light Chaser Animation, the film is being billed as the studio’s most ambitious project to date. The company is also known for the blockbusters “White Snake” and “Chang An.”

    The film is noted for its vivid color palette and use of Chinese cultural elements. The chapter “Taoist from Laoshan Mountain” is co-directed by Light Chaser veterans Cui and Liu Yuan, marking their directorial debuts. For the film, the pair pioneered a felt-textured animation style, making the visuals appear as if crafted from felt fabric — a first in Chinese animation history.

    “We wanted to use a captivating approach to instantly immerse audiences in the world of ‘Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio,’ one filled with Chinese romanticism and mysterious supernatural elements,” Cui said at the premiere.

    Xie, director of the Tang dynasty epic “Chang An,” created “Princess Lotus” for this anthology, which follows a boy who meets a bee princess in his dreams. He said he aimed to highlight the innocence found in children that remains in adults, offering audiences both delight and motivation to persevere against all odds.

    Zou, who also directed “Chang An,” leads the adaptation of “Nie Xiaoqian,” reimagining the ancient ghost story in a modern historical context. Set in the chaotic, war-torn Republic of China era, Zou said the new backdrop brings greater challenges and drama for the protagonists while preserving the story’s unique ambiguity and romance.

    Liu Yilin and Huang co-directed the horror ghost story “The Painted Skin,” marking the first time the tale has been told from a woman’s perspective. They present it as both a cautionary tale about marriage and an empowering message for women.

    “The story doesn’t just examine marriage issues — it offers solutions,” Liu said. “We hope people facing difficulties will confront them positively rather than retreat.”

    Zou and Liu Yuan co-directed “Miss Lu,” a poignant adaptation of Pu’s “The Daughter of Magistrate Lu,” which serves as the film’s climactic finale. Liu described the protagonists’ connection as “a profound bond transcending life, death and temporal boundaries.” He added, “We want audiences to leave with complete fulfillment, with that rare satisfaction when every emotional thread finds resolution.”

    A poster for “Curious Tales of a Temple.” [Image courtesy of Light Chaser Animation]

    Pu’s encounter with toad and turtle spirits beneath the well also forms a story on its own, directed by Huang, Liu Yilin and Zou, serving as a tribute to the original author.

    Screenwriter Shen Junle said elements of the supernatural in Chinese culture are deeply rooted in 5,000 years of tradition. “In these strange tales, we see reflections of human nature, emotions, worldly affairs and hopes for the future. I believe this is the core of our supernatural storytelling tradition,” Shen said.

    Producer Song Yiyi said “Curious Tales of a Temple” felt like the longest project she has worked on. “It contains so many different lives and emotions,” she said. “I hope that after watching it, everyone can feel the ups and downs in ‘Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio,’ and believe that tomorrow will always be better than today.”

    “Curious Tales of a Temple,” released on July 12, is the second installment in Light Chaser Animation’s “New Culture” series after “Chang An.” The next film in the series will be an animated adaptation of the Chinese classic “Romance of the Three Kingdoms,” scheduled for release next summer.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Former Uruguay midfielder Lodeiro rejoins Nacional

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

    Uruguayan midfielder Nicolas Lodeiro has returned to his boyhood team Nacional on a free transfer, the Montevideo club said on Friday.

    Lodeiro signed a one-year deal with Nacional after parting ways with MLS side Houston Dynamo.

    “I was drawn by the challenge and the opportunity to close a cycle,” the 36-year-old said at his official presentation.

    “I don’t want to go anywhere else from here. This is the place where I grew up, and the chance to wear the shirt again is something I don’t take lightly.”

    Lodeiro began his professional career at Nacional in 2007 before spells at Ajax, Botafogo, Corinthians, Boca Juniors, Seattle, Orlando and Houston.

    He has 60 Uruguay caps and was a part of the Celeste’s FIFA World Cup squads in 2014 and 2018.

    Lodeiro added: “I’m a lot more experienced now but I have the same desire and enthusiasm as when I left.” 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Sinner beats Djokovic to face Alcaraz in Wimbledon final

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

    Top seed Jannik Sinner will take on defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final after the Italian ruthlessly dismantled Novak Djokovic 6-3, 6-3, 6-4 on Friday.

    The victory sent Sinner into a maiden Wimbledon final and set up a re-match of last month’s French Open final, where the world No. 1 squandered three championship points before losing to Alcaraz.

    “It’s amazing,” Sinner said in his on-court interview. “I can’t believe it. It’s a tournament I always watched when I was young, and I would never have imagined I could play in the final.”

    When asked what he took to beat Djokovic, he said: “I served very well and was moving much better today. We all saw, especially in the third set, he was a bit injured.”

    Sinner broke Djokovic five times while the Serb broke only once in the third set, where Sinner remarkably won five games in a row to secure a spot in the final.

    Sunday’s final will give Sinner a chance for revenge against Alcaraz, who beat American fifth seed Taylor Fritz 6-4, 5-7, 6-3, 7-6 (8-6) in the other semifinal.

    “It’s a huge honor for me to share the court again with Carlos,” Sinner said.

    “Hopefully it will be a good match like the last one – I don’t know if it will be better because I don’t know if that’s possible, but we will try – hopefully it will be an enjoyable match,” he added. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Jair leaves Botafogo for Nottingham Forest

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

    Botafogo has confirmed the sale of center back Jair Cunha to Nottingham Forest, in a deal reportedly worth 12 million euros.

    The 20-year-old, who had been tied to Botafogo until 2028, agreed to a contract that runs until June 2030, the Rio de Janeiro club said in a statement on its official website on Friday.

    “We thank the defender for all his dedication and determination during his time wearing our shirt and we wish him well in the future,” the statement read.

    Jair made 22 appearances for Botafogo across all competitions after joining the club from Santos in February.

    The Brazil under-20 international became the second player to join Forest from Botafogo in less than a week. The Premier League club also signed striker Igor Jesus for a reported fee of 11.5 million euros. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: PSV completes transfer of winger Ruben van Bommel from AZ

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

    PSV secured the signing of AZ forward Ruben van Bommel on Friday, with the 20-year-old winger signing a contract until mid-2030.

    With a transfer fee around 15 million euros (approximately 17.5 million U.S. dollars), Van Bommel is expected to be the successor to Noa Lang in Eindhoven, who is set to move to Italian champion Napoli.

    Van Bommel is the son of Mark van Bommel, a 79-cap Dutch international and PSV club legend, and the grandson of former Netherlands coach Bert van Marwijk. He spent seven years in PSV’s youth academy before transferring to MVV Maastricht in 2020.

    After making his professional debut with MVV in the Dutch first division, he moved to AZ in 2023. During his two seasons in Alkmaar, he scored 17 goals and provided six assists in 73 matches.

    “I am especially driven to develop myself further here and of course to win prizes,” Van Bommel said on the PSV website after signing with the reigning Dutch champion. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China eyes future, title defense at home in FIBA Women’s Asia Cup

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

    Host China will deploy its teenage phenom Zhang Ziyu with a focus on both the future and the defense of its title at the upcoming FIBA Women’s Asia Cup, which begins Sunday in Shenzhen.

    For China, the defending champion, the first major tournament of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic cycle is about more than just winning on home soil. The primary goal is to manage a generational transition, giving young players critical experience after a disappointing performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

    Two years ago, China ended a 12-year title drought and broke Japan’s grip on the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup with a tense 73-71 victory to secure the gold medal. However, the setback in Paris prompted a coaching change, with veteran Gong Luming returning in February, marking his return to the position he last held 20 years ago.

    Gong has assembled a balanced roster, combining seasoned veterans like guards Yang Liwei and Wang Siyu with promising young talents, notably the 18-year-old Zhang. Standing at 2.26 meters (7-foot-5), Zhang is set to make her senior debut in this tournament, after a breakout performance last year at the same venue when she dominated the U18 Asia Cup, averaging 35 points and 12.8 rebounds to earn MVP honors.

    “There are growing pains with a generational transition,” Gong said, acknowledging the challenge ahead. “The experience and playing style of the veterans differ from the newcomers. In a team sport, building chemistry takes time and a lot of work,” he added.

    On the court, Zhang will form a towering frontcourt duo with the more agile Han Xu, providing China with diverse offensive options in the paint. Her main challenge will be adjusting to the increased physicality and stamina demands of senior-level competition.

    While depth and experience will be tested, China’s championship pedigree remains undeniable.

    China is favored to advance from a group that includes New Zealand, South Korea, and Indonesia. South Korea, tied with China for the most Asia Cup titles at 12, is expected to be China’s toughest group-stage opponent.

    The path to a second straight championship will likely involve overcoming perennial rivals Japan and world No. 2 Australia, who are on the opposite side of the bracket.

    Australia handed China its only loss in recent warm-up matches, a 76-63 defeat in a game where Zhang was rested. The Australians have medaled in every Asia Cup since joining the FIBA Asia zone in 2017.

    The Opals have undergone a roster refresh, with only Chloe Bibby returning from 2023, and the loss of Maddy Rocci to injury is a setback. Still, their blend of youth and experience makes them a formidable contender capable of challenging China for gold.

    Gong said the two exhibition games against Australia were the most valuable preparation for his squad.

    “To become a top team in the world, we must adapt to playing against this level of high-intensity, physical basketball,” Gong added. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • Over 1.63 lakh pilgrims perform Amarnath Yatra in first 9 days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Over 1.63 lakh devotees have performed the sacred Amarnath Yatra since it began on July 3, even as a fresh batch of 6,639 pilgrims departed from Jammu for Kashmir early Saturday morning.

    According to officials, the pilgrims who have so far undertaken the yatra have successfully had ‘darshan’ at the holy cave shrine, which is situated at an altitude of 3,888 metres in the Himalayas of south Kashmir. On Saturday, two escorted convoys carrying the latest group of pilgrims left from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu. The first convoy of 116 vehicles, carrying 2,337 yatris, departed at 2:50 a.m. for the Baltal base camp. The second convoy, consisting of 161 vehicles and 4,302 pilgrims, left at 3:55 a.m. for the Nunwan base camp near Pahalgam.

    Meanwhile, the Bhumi Pujan ceremony of the sacred ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) was performed at Pahalgam on Thursday. The ceremonial mace was taken from the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar by a group of sadhus led by Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, the sole custodian of the Chhari Mubarak. The procession carried the mace to the Gauri Shankar temple in Pahalgam, where the traditional Bhumi Pujan was conducted. The Chhari Mubarak is scheduled to reach the holy cave shrine on August 9, the final day of the yatra, which coincides with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    In light of heightened security concerns, particularly following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow that claimed 26 lives, authorities have deployed extensive multi-tier security arrangements. The central government has sent an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to reinforce existing deployments from the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police.

    The Indian Army has also launched a comprehensive security initiative named “Operation SHIVA 2025.” More than 8,500 troops have been deployed alongside advanced surveillance and combat technology to ensure the safety of pilgrims. The operation includes a dedicated counter-UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) grid with over 50 counter-drone and electronic warfare systems to tackle aerial threats.

    Live monitoring via UAVs (drones) and PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras is being used to track yatra convoys and activity near the cave shrine. Engineer task forces have been deployed to maintain and improve infrastructure along the route, including bridge construction, track widening, and landslide mitigation.

    Medical preparedness has also been enhanced significantly. The Army has positioned more than 150 doctors and paramedics, two Advanced Dressing Stations, nine Medical Aid Posts, a 100-bed hospital, and 26 oxygen booths supported by 2 lakh litres of oxygen. Additional support includes bomb detection squads, technical detachments, and communication teams.

    Transit camps, base camps, and the entire route from Jammu to the holy cave are under strict surveillance and protection. Notably, helicopter services have been suspended this year due to security concerns.

    Pilgrims undertake the yatra to visit the naturally formed ice stalagmite inside the cave shrine, believed by devotees to represent Lord Shiva. The structure is known to wax and wane with the lunar cycle, reinforcing its mystical significance.

    The Amarnath Yatra remains one of Hinduism’s holiest pilgrimages. According to legend, it was in this cave that Lord Shiva revealed the secrets of immortality and eternal life to Mata Parvati.

    This year’s pilgrimage spans 38 days, with thousands of pilgrims trekking via the two main routes: the traditional 46-kilometre Pahalgam route, which typically takes four days, and the shorter 14-kilometre Baltal route, which allows pilgrims to complete the round-trip in a single day.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • Over 1.63 lakh pilgrims perform Amarnath Yatra in first 9 days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Over 1.63 lakh devotees have performed the sacred Amarnath Yatra since it began on July 3, even as a fresh batch of 6,639 pilgrims departed from Jammu for Kashmir early Saturday morning.

    According to officials, the pilgrims who have so far undertaken the yatra have successfully had ‘darshan’ at the holy cave shrine, which is situated at an altitude of 3,888 metres in the Himalayas of south Kashmir. On Saturday, two escorted convoys carrying the latest group of pilgrims left from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu. The first convoy of 116 vehicles, carrying 2,337 yatris, departed at 2:50 a.m. for the Baltal base camp. The second convoy, consisting of 161 vehicles and 4,302 pilgrims, left at 3:55 a.m. for the Nunwan base camp near Pahalgam.

    Meanwhile, the Bhumi Pujan ceremony of the sacred ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) was performed at Pahalgam on Thursday. The ceremonial mace was taken from the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar by a group of sadhus led by Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, the sole custodian of the Chhari Mubarak. The procession carried the mace to the Gauri Shankar temple in Pahalgam, where the traditional Bhumi Pujan was conducted. The Chhari Mubarak is scheduled to reach the holy cave shrine on August 9, the final day of the yatra, which coincides with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    In light of heightened security concerns, particularly following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow that claimed 26 lives, authorities have deployed extensive multi-tier security arrangements. The central government has sent an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to reinforce existing deployments from the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police.

    The Indian Army has also launched a comprehensive security initiative named “Operation SHIVA 2025.” More than 8,500 troops have been deployed alongside advanced surveillance and combat technology to ensure the safety of pilgrims. The operation includes a dedicated counter-UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) grid with over 50 counter-drone and electronic warfare systems to tackle aerial threats.

    Live monitoring via UAVs (drones) and PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras is being used to track yatra convoys and activity near the cave shrine. Engineer task forces have been deployed to maintain and improve infrastructure along the route, including bridge construction, track widening, and landslide mitigation.

    Medical preparedness has also been enhanced significantly. The Army has positioned more than 150 doctors and paramedics, two Advanced Dressing Stations, nine Medical Aid Posts, a 100-bed hospital, and 26 oxygen booths supported by 2 lakh litres of oxygen. Additional support includes bomb detection squads, technical detachments, and communication teams.

    Transit camps, base camps, and the entire route from Jammu to the holy cave are under strict surveillance and protection. Notably, helicopter services have been suspended this year due to security concerns.

    Pilgrims undertake the yatra to visit the naturally formed ice stalagmite inside the cave shrine, believed by devotees to represent Lord Shiva. The structure is known to wax and wane with the lunar cycle, reinforcing its mystical significance.

    The Amarnath Yatra remains one of Hinduism’s holiest pilgrimages. According to legend, it was in this cave that Lord Shiva revealed the secrets of immortality and eternal life to Mata Parvati.

    This year’s pilgrimage spans 38 days, with thousands of pilgrims trekking via the two main routes: the traditional 46-kilometre Pahalgam route, which typically takes four days, and the shorter 14-kilometre Baltal route, which allows pilgrims to complete the round-trip in a single day.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • Over 1.63 lakh pilgrims perform Amarnath Yatra in first 9 days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Over 1.63 lakh devotees have performed the sacred Amarnath Yatra since it began on July 3, even as a fresh batch of 6,639 pilgrims departed from Jammu for Kashmir early Saturday morning.

    According to officials, the pilgrims who have so far undertaken the yatra have successfully had ‘darshan’ at the holy cave shrine, which is situated at an altitude of 3,888 metres in the Himalayas of south Kashmir. On Saturday, two escorted convoys carrying the latest group of pilgrims left from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu. The first convoy of 116 vehicles, carrying 2,337 yatris, departed at 2:50 a.m. for the Baltal base camp. The second convoy, consisting of 161 vehicles and 4,302 pilgrims, left at 3:55 a.m. for the Nunwan base camp near Pahalgam.

    Meanwhile, the Bhumi Pujan ceremony of the sacred ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) was performed at Pahalgam on Thursday. The ceremonial mace was taken from the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar by a group of sadhus led by Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, the sole custodian of the Chhari Mubarak. The procession carried the mace to the Gauri Shankar temple in Pahalgam, where the traditional Bhumi Pujan was conducted. The Chhari Mubarak is scheduled to reach the holy cave shrine on August 9, the final day of the yatra, which coincides with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    In light of heightened security concerns, particularly following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow that claimed 26 lives, authorities have deployed extensive multi-tier security arrangements. The central government has sent an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to reinforce existing deployments from the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police.

    The Indian Army has also launched a comprehensive security initiative named “Operation SHIVA 2025.” More than 8,500 troops have been deployed alongside advanced surveillance and combat technology to ensure the safety of pilgrims. The operation includes a dedicated counter-UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) grid with over 50 counter-drone and electronic warfare systems to tackle aerial threats.

    Live monitoring via UAVs (drones) and PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras is being used to track yatra convoys and activity near the cave shrine. Engineer task forces have been deployed to maintain and improve infrastructure along the route, including bridge construction, track widening, and landslide mitigation.

    Medical preparedness has also been enhanced significantly. The Army has positioned more than 150 doctors and paramedics, two Advanced Dressing Stations, nine Medical Aid Posts, a 100-bed hospital, and 26 oxygen booths supported by 2 lakh litres of oxygen. Additional support includes bomb detection squads, technical detachments, and communication teams.

    Transit camps, base camps, and the entire route from Jammu to the holy cave are under strict surveillance and protection. Notably, helicopter services have been suspended this year due to security concerns.

    Pilgrims undertake the yatra to visit the naturally formed ice stalagmite inside the cave shrine, believed by devotees to represent Lord Shiva. The structure is known to wax and wane with the lunar cycle, reinforcing its mystical significance.

    The Amarnath Yatra remains one of Hinduism’s holiest pilgrimages. According to legend, it was in this cave that Lord Shiva revealed the secrets of immortality and eternal life to Mata Parvati.

    This year’s pilgrimage spans 38 days, with thousands of pilgrims trekking via the two main routes: the traditional 46-kilometre Pahalgam route, which typically takes four days, and the shorter 14-kilometre Baltal route, which allows pilgrims to complete the round-trip in a single day.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • Over 1.63 lakh pilgrims perform Amarnath Yatra in first 9 days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Over 1.63 lakh devotees have performed the sacred Amarnath Yatra since it began on July 3, even as a fresh batch of 6,639 pilgrims departed from Jammu for Kashmir early Saturday morning.

    According to officials, the pilgrims who have so far undertaken the yatra have successfully had ‘darshan’ at the holy cave shrine, which is situated at an altitude of 3,888 metres in the Himalayas of south Kashmir. On Saturday, two escorted convoys carrying the latest group of pilgrims left from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu. The first convoy of 116 vehicles, carrying 2,337 yatris, departed at 2:50 a.m. for the Baltal base camp. The second convoy, consisting of 161 vehicles and 4,302 pilgrims, left at 3:55 a.m. for the Nunwan base camp near Pahalgam.

    Meanwhile, the Bhumi Pujan ceremony of the sacred ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) was performed at Pahalgam on Thursday. The ceremonial mace was taken from the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar by a group of sadhus led by Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, the sole custodian of the Chhari Mubarak. The procession carried the mace to the Gauri Shankar temple in Pahalgam, where the traditional Bhumi Pujan was conducted. The Chhari Mubarak is scheduled to reach the holy cave shrine on August 9, the final day of the yatra, which coincides with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    In light of heightened security concerns, particularly following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow that claimed 26 lives, authorities have deployed extensive multi-tier security arrangements. The central government has sent an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to reinforce existing deployments from the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police.

    The Indian Army has also launched a comprehensive security initiative named “Operation SHIVA 2025.” More than 8,500 troops have been deployed alongside advanced surveillance and combat technology to ensure the safety of pilgrims. The operation includes a dedicated counter-UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) grid with over 50 counter-drone and electronic warfare systems to tackle aerial threats.

    Live monitoring via UAVs (drones) and PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras is being used to track yatra convoys and activity near the cave shrine. Engineer task forces have been deployed to maintain and improve infrastructure along the route, including bridge construction, track widening, and landslide mitigation.

    Medical preparedness has also been enhanced significantly. The Army has positioned more than 150 doctors and paramedics, two Advanced Dressing Stations, nine Medical Aid Posts, a 100-bed hospital, and 26 oxygen booths supported by 2 lakh litres of oxygen. Additional support includes bomb detection squads, technical detachments, and communication teams.

    Transit camps, base camps, and the entire route from Jammu to the holy cave are under strict surveillance and protection. Notably, helicopter services have been suspended this year due to security concerns.

    Pilgrims undertake the yatra to visit the naturally formed ice stalagmite inside the cave shrine, believed by devotees to represent Lord Shiva. The structure is known to wax and wane with the lunar cycle, reinforcing its mystical significance.

    The Amarnath Yatra remains one of Hinduism’s holiest pilgrimages. According to legend, it was in this cave that Lord Shiva revealed the secrets of immortality and eternal life to Mata Parvati.

    This year’s pilgrimage spans 38 days, with thousands of pilgrims trekking via the two main routes: the traditional 46-kilometre Pahalgam route, which typically takes four days, and the shorter 14-kilometre Baltal route, which allows pilgrims to complete the round-trip in a single day.

    (With agencies inputs)

  • UN report urges stronger measures to detect AI-driven deepfakes

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Companies must use advanced tools to detect and stamp out misinformation and deepfake content to help counter growing risks of election interference and financial fraud, the United Nations’ International Telecommunication Union urged in a report on Friday.

    Deepfakes such as AI-generated images and videos, and audio that convincingly impersonates real people, pose mounting risks, the ITU said in the report released at its “AI for Good Summit” in Geneva.

    The ITU called for robust standards to combat manipulated multimedia and recommended that content distributors such as social media platforms use digital verification tools to authenticate images and videos before sharing.

    “Trust in social media has dropped significantly because people don’t know what’s true and what’s fake,” Bilel Jamoussi, Chief of the Study Groups Department at the ITU’s Standardization Bureau, noted. Combatting deepfakes was a top challenge due to Generative AI’s ability to fabricate realistic multimedia, he said.

    Leonard Rosenthol of Adobe, a digital editing software leader that has been addressing deepfakes since 2019, underscored the importance of establishing the provenance of digital content to help users assess its trustworthiness.

    “We need more of the places where users consume their content to show this information…When you are scrolling through your feeds you want to know: ‘can I trust this image, this video…’” Rosenthol said.

    Dr. Farzaneh Badiei, founder of digital governance research firm Digital Medusa, stressed the importance of a global approach to the problem, given there is currently no single international watchdog focusing on detecting manipulated material.

    “If we have patchworks of standards and solutions, then the harmful deepfake can be more effective,” she told Reuters.

    The ITU is currently developing standards for watermarking videos – which make up 80% of internet traffic – to embed provenance data such as creator identity and timestamps.

    Tomaz Levak, founder of Switzerland-based Umanitek, urged the private sector to proactively implement safety measures and educate users.

    “AI will only get more powerful, faster or smarter… We’ll need to upskill people to make sure that they are not victims of the systems,” he said.

    (Reuters)

  • UN report urges stronger measures to detect AI-driven deepfakes

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Companies must use advanced tools to detect and stamp out misinformation and deepfake content to help counter growing risks of election interference and financial fraud, the United Nations’ International Telecommunication Union urged in a report on Friday.

    Deepfakes such as AI-generated images and videos, and audio that convincingly impersonates real people, pose mounting risks, the ITU said in the report released at its “AI for Good Summit” in Geneva.

    The ITU called for robust standards to combat manipulated multimedia and recommended that content distributors such as social media platforms use digital verification tools to authenticate images and videos before sharing.

    “Trust in social media has dropped significantly because people don’t know what’s true and what’s fake,” Bilel Jamoussi, Chief of the Study Groups Department at the ITU’s Standardization Bureau, noted. Combatting deepfakes was a top challenge due to Generative AI’s ability to fabricate realistic multimedia, he said.

    Leonard Rosenthol of Adobe, a digital editing software leader that has been addressing deepfakes since 2019, underscored the importance of establishing the provenance of digital content to help users assess its trustworthiness.

    “We need more of the places where users consume their content to show this information…When you are scrolling through your feeds you want to know: ‘can I trust this image, this video…’” Rosenthol said.

    Dr. Farzaneh Badiei, founder of digital governance research firm Digital Medusa, stressed the importance of a global approach to the problem, given there is currently no single international watchdog focusing on detecting manipulated material.

    “If we have patchworks of standards and solutions, then the harmful deepfake can be more effective,” she told Reuters.

    The ITU is currently developing standards for watermarking videos – which make up 80% of internet traffic – to embed provenance data such as creator identity and timestamps.

    Tomaz Levak, founder of Switzerland-based Umanitek, urged the private sector to proactively implement safety measures and educate users.

    “AI will only get more powerful, faster or smarter… We’ll need to upskill people to make sure that they are not victims of the systems,” he said.

    (Reuters)

  • UN report urges stronger measures to detect AI-driven deepfakes

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Companies must use advanced tools to detect and stamp out misinformation and deepfake content to help counter growing risks of election interference and financial fraud, the United Nations’ International Telecommunication Union urged in a report on Friday.

    Deepfakes such as AI-generated images and videos, and audio that convincingly impersonates real people, pose mounting risks, the ITU said in the report released at its “AI for Good Summit” in Geneva.

    The ITU called for robust standards to combat manipulated multimedia and recommended that content distributors such as social media platforms use digital verification tools to authenticate images and videos before sharing.

    “Trust in social media has dropped significantly because people don’t know what’s true and what’s fake,” Bilel Jamoussi, Chief of the Study Groups Department at the ITU’s Standardization Bureau, noted. Combatting deepfakes was a top challenge due to Generative AI’s ability to fabricate realistic multimedia, he said.

    Leonard Rosenthol of Adobe, a digital editing software leader that has been addressing deepfakes since 2019, underscored the importance of establishing the provenance of digital content to help users assess its trustworthiness.

    “We need more of the places where users consume their content to show this information…When you are scrolling through your feeds you want to know: ‘can I trust this image, this video…’” Rosenthol said.

    Dr. Farzaneh Badiei, founder of digital governance research firm Digital Medusa, stressed the importance of a global approach to the problem, given there is currently no single international watchdog focusing on detecting manipulated material.

    “If we have patchworks of standards and solutions, then the harmful deepfake can be more effective,” she told Reuters.

    The ITU is currently developing standards for watermarking videos – which make up 80% of internet traffic – to embed provenance data such as creator identity and timestamps.

    Tomaz Levak, founder of Switzerland-based Umanitek, urged the private sector to proactively implement safety measures and educate users.

    “AI will only get more powerful, faster or smarter… We’ll need to upskill people to make sure that they are not victims of the systems,” he said.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Video: Funeral Service of the former Deputy President David Dabede Mabuza

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)

    President Cyril Ramaphosa delivers eulogy at the former Deputy President David Dabede Mabuza Funeral Service.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKlk2ICeIYY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Commissioner of Police encourages graduates to demonstrate team spirit (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Commissioner of Police encourages graduates to demonstrate team spirit  
    Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Chow said this was his first time attending the Police College passing-out parade in the capacity of the Commissioner of Police, and serving as the reviewing officer. He mentioned his participation in the parade as a graduate at the same venue 29 years ago, and hence could fully understand the feelings of the graduates.
     
    He stated that the HKPF, with a history of 181 years, is a world-renowned, professional and highly efficient team. Over the years, the Force has encountered countless challenges, but has always overcome obstacles with team spirit, upholding the motto of “Serving Hong Kong with Honour, Duty and Loyalty”, ensuring the safety and stability of Hong Kong.
     
    He said that police officers have to serve in various posts throughout their career, and policing work requires concerted efforts to overcome adversities. Team members have to share weal and woe with each other and express care for their fellow colleagues; whereas team leaders win respect through personal integrity and take the initiative and stand at the forefront.
     
    He shared that he had worked closely with a number of outstanding team members in his 30-year policing career. He stressed that team culture is indispensable and with great pride in HKPF, and since his appointment as the Commissioner of Police in April, one of his work priorities is strengthening the team culture.
     
         Mr Chow wished that graduates would stay in touch with their fellow classmates and peers from the same batches, to support and encourage each other, as well as bearing in mind that if each member goes the extra mile for the team, much more could be achieved. He also encouraged graduates to uphold their original aspiration when facing challenges ahead, and remember the steadfast support from their families, friends, colleagues, and the entire Force, and they are never fighting alone.
    Issued at HKT 14:21

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –