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Category: DJF

  • PM Modi embarks on 3-nation tour, says opportunity to galvanise global understanding on tackling terrorism

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday released an official statement before embarking on the three-nation tour of Cyprus, Canada and Croatia. He said this is an opportunity to galvanise global understanding on tackling terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

    PM Modi shared on X: “Today, I will embark on a three-nation tour to the Republic of Cyprus, Canada and Croatia. On June 15-16, I will visit the Republic of Cyprus at the invitation of President Nikos Christodoulides. Cyprus is a close friend and an important partner in the Mediterranean region and the EU. The visit provides an opportunity to build upon the historical bonds and expand our ties in the areas of trade, investment, security, technology and promote people-to-people exchanges.”

    “From Cyprus, I will travel to Kananaskis, Canada, to attend the G7 Summit at the invitation of Prime Minister Mark Carney,” said the PM.

    PM Modi said that the Summit will provide space for exchange of views on pressing global issues and the priorities of the Global South and he is also looking forward to engaging with leaders from partner countries.

    “On June 18, I look forward to my visit to the Republic of Croatia and meetings with President Zoran Milanovic and Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic. Both our countries enjoy centuries-old close cultural links. As the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Croatia, it will open new avenues for bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest. This three-nation tour is also an opportunity to thank partner countries for their steadfast support to India in our fight against cross-border terrorism, and to galvanise global understanding on tackling terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” PM Modi said.

    PM Modi’s visit to Cyprus will be the first by an Indian Prime Minister in more than two decades.

    “I will be attending the G7 Summit in Canada, which will give a great platform to exchange perspectives on various global issues and elaborate on the priorities of the Global South,” PM Modi said earlier on X.

    “My visit to Croatia, which will be the first ever by an Indian Prime Minister, presents a historical opportunity to boost linkages with a valued partner country,” added PM Modi.

    Manish, High Commissioner of India to Cyprus, said, “The visit is going to be a historic visit for several reasons. It is after over two decades that a Prime Minister from our country is coming, and this would be the first visit of the Prime Minister (Modi) to this country… I think the most significant outcomes will be in trade, technology, tourism and investment. We will also discuss defence and security cooperation, business and people-to-people contact as well as global and regional discussions…”

    In Nicosia, PM Modi will hold talks with Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides and address business leaders in Limassol.

    Cyprus had condemned the Pahalgam terror attack and indicated that it would raise the issue of cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan at the EU-level discussions.

    The visit will be timely as Cyprus is set to take over the Presidency of the Council of the EU in the first half of 2026.

    The visit will reaffirm the shared commitment of the two countries to deepen bilateral ties and strengthen India’s engagement with the Mediterranean region and the European Union, as per the MEA.

    The visit to Cyprus is significant also as it comes in the middle of India’s tensions with Turkey over the latter’s support to Pakistan.

    Ankara’s recognition of the so-called Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in the northern region that was seized by Turkish forces in 1974 and differences over gas exploration rights in the Eastern Mediterranean remain a constant source of tensions between Turkey and Cyprus.

    PM Modi will participate in the G7 Summit in Canada’s Kananaskis on June 16 to 17, and conclude the five-day visit with an official visit to Croatia on June 18.

    At the G7 summit, PM Modi will come face-to-face with US President Donald Trump for the first time since their meeting in February 2025.

    “At the summit, the PM will exchange views with leaders of G7 countries, other invited outreach countries and heads of international organisations on crucial global issues, including energy security, technology and innovation, particularly the AI-energy nexus and Quantum-related issues,” said the government in its announcement.

    The Prime Minister’s Croatia visit on June 18 will be the first ever visit by an Indian PM, marking an important milestone in the bilateral relationship.

    “The visit to Croatia will also underscore India’s commitment to further strengthening its engagement with partners in the European Union,” said the government.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • Delhi: Rain brings relief from heatwave; IMD forecasts thunderstorm, strong winds

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    After a prolonged spell of scorching temperatures for several days, people in the national capital received a gradual respite from heatwave conditions on Sunday, as several parts of the city experienced light rainfall, thunderstorm and strong winds.

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a severe thunderstorm and strong winds for the city, advising residents in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) to stay indoors.

    According to the IMD, “Moderate to intense spell of rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning, and squally winds reaching speeds of 80-100 kmph” swept through the capital during the early Sunday hours.

    Two thunder squalls along with hailstorm activity were recorded at Safdarjung between 0348 to 0350 hrs IST and 0358 to 0400 hrs IST.

    The first squall saw gusty winds reaching 82 kmph, while the second saw a peak wind speed of 104 kmph, said the IMD.

    The weather department urged residents to take precautions.

    “Stay indoors and avoid travel unless necessary,” the IMD advisory said, as flying debris and low visibility posed risks on the roads.

    The Safdarjung observatory, Delhi’s official weather station, recorded a maximum temperature of 41.2 degrees Celsius on Friday – a dip of 2.7 degrees from Thursday, but still 1.3 degrees Celsius above normal. The minimum temperature remained high at 31.0 degrees Celsius, marking a departure of 3 degrees Celsius from the seasonal average. Humidity levels oscillated between 51 per cent and 69 per cent, making conditions hot and uncomfortable throughout the day.

    According to IMD officials, the national capital is set to witness generally cloudy skies with very light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, dust storms, and lightning till June 19. Gusty winds are also expected during thunderstorms.

    This comes after a red alert – a severe warning – was issued for Delhi, as the capital experienced extreme heatwave conditions. Daytime temperatures climbed to between 41°C and 45°C, while the minimum temperature reached 31°C, marking a rise of four degrees above the seasonal average.

    The weather department has predicted partly cloudy skies with a chance of a thunderstorm and rain early Sunday morning, potentially bringing some relief from the intense heat.

    The IMD, in its extended range forecast, has said that the southwest monsoon is likely to advance over the remaining parts of central and eastern India, along with some areas in northwest India, between June 12 and 18. It is further expected to reach most parts of northwest India, including Delhi, between June 19 and 25.

    The normal date for the monsoon to arrive in Delhi is around June 30.

    This year, it arrived in Kerala on May 24 – well ahead of the usual onset date of 1 June – and reached Mumbai by May 26, which is 16 days earlier than normal.

    According to IMD data, the monsoon reached Delhi on June 28 last year, and on June 26 in 2023.

    In previous years, it arrived on June 30 (2022), July 13 (2021), and June 25 (2020).

    After a nearly 10-day pause, the monsoon has picked up pace again, especially over southern India.

    Since Wednesday, several parts of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Konkan, and Maharashtra have been receiving heavy to very heavy rainfall. This renewed activity marks a strong push northwards, indicating rapid progress of the monsoon across the country.

    The IMD has also said the second phase of the monsoon is expected to spread across eastern India, bringing rainfall to West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh within the next week.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • Delhi: Rain brings relief from heatwave; IMD forecasts thunderstorm, strong winds

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    After a prolonged spell of scorching temperatures for several days, people in the national capital received a gradual respite from heatwave conditions on Sunday, as several parts of the city experienced light rainfall, thunderstorm and strong winds.

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a severe thunderstorm and strong winds for the city, advising residents in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) to stay indoors.

    According to the IMD, “Moderate to intense spell of rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning, and squally winds reaching speeds of 80-100 kmph” swept through the capital during the early Sunday hours.

    Two thunder squalls along with hailstorm activity were recorded at Safdarjung between 0348 to 0350 hrs IST and 0358 to 0400 hrs IST.

    The first squall saw gusty winds reaching 82 kmph, while the second saw a peak wind speed of 104 kmph, said the IMD.

    The weather department urged residents to take precautions.

    “Stay indoors and avoid travel unless necessary,” the IMD advisory said, as flying debris and low visibility posed risks on the roads.

    The Safdarjung observatory, Delhi’s official weather station, recorded a maximum temperature of 41.2 degrees Celsius on Friday – a dip of 2.7 degrees from Thursday, but still 1.3 degrees Celsius above normal. The minimum temperature remained high at 31.0 degrees Celsius, marking a departure of 3 degrees Celsius from the seasonal average. Humidity levels oscillated between 51 per cent and 69 per cent, making conditions hot and uncomfortable throughout the day.

    According to IMD officials, the national capital is set to witness generally cloudy skies with very light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, dust storms, and lightning till June 19. Gusty winds are also expected during thunderstorms.

    This comes after a red alert – a severe warning – was issued for Delhi, as the capital experienced extreme heatwave conditions. Daytime temperatures climbed to between 41°C and 45°C, while the minimum temperature reached 31°C, marking a rise of four degrees above the seasonal average.

    The weather department has predicted partly cloudy skies with a chance of a thunderstorm and rain early Sunday morning, potentially bringing some relief from the intense heat.

    The IMD, in its extended range forecast, has said that the southwest monsoon is likely to advance over the remaining parts of central and eastern India, along with some areas in northwest India, between June 12 and 18. It is further expected to reach most parts of northwest India, including Delhi, between June 19 and 25.

    The normal date for the monsoon to arrive in Delhi is around June 30.

    This year, it arrived in Kerala on May 24 – well ahead of the usual onset date of 1 June – and reached Mumbai by May 26, which is 16 days earlier than normal.

    According to IMD data, the monsoon reached Delhi on June 28 last year, and on June 26 in 2023.

    In previous years, it arrived on June 30 (2022), July 13 (2021), and June 25 (2020).

    After a nearly 10-day pause, the monsoon has picked up pace again, especially over southern India.

    Since Wednesday, several parts of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Konkan, and Maharashtra have been receiving heavy to very heavy rainfall. This renewed activity marks a strong push northwards, indicating rapid progress of the monsoon across the country.

    The IMD has also said the second phase of the monsoon is expected to spread across eastern India, bringing rainfall to West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh within the next week.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Fatal crash – Katherine region

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is investigating a fatal crash that occurred in the Katherine region yesterday afternoon.

    Around 3:40pm, police received reports of a single vehicle collision on the Buntine Highway, approximately 45 kilometres south of the Victoria Highway intersection.

    The 46-year-old male driver and sole vehicle occupant was pronounced deceased at the scene.

    A report will be prepared for the NT Coroner. 

    Police urge anyone with information to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number P25160362.

    The number of lives lost on Territory roads now stands at 19.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Iran launches new wave of attacks on Israel in response to airstrikes

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

    Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) launched late Saturday night a “large-scale combined offensive operation” against Israel, involving a significant number of missiles and drones, the IRGC’s official news outlet Sepah News reported.

    The IRGC’s aerospace division carried out the attack, stating it was in response to Israel’s “repeated aggressions” against Iran, according to Sepah.

    In Israel, a rocket struck a residential building in a northern community, killing one woman and injuring 13 others, according to Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel’s national emergency medical service. Several others sustained moderate to light injuries, and four individuals were treated for anxiety, MDA said.

    Earlier in the day, MDA reported that at least three people had been killed and 204 others injured since the beginning of the Iranian offensive.

    Following the latest wave of attacks, Israel’s Home Front Command advised residents outside the Haifa and northern regions that they could exit bomb shelters but should remain close to protected areas.

    The Israeli military stated that its air defense systems were actively intercepting incoming projectiles, while Israeli air force units were carrying out strikes on military targets in Tehran.

    Iran’s Ministry of Petroleum confirmed that two oil depots in Tehran were hit during the attacks. Residents reported two powerful explosions in the capital, with blasts felt in both the western and northern districts. The ministry said the situation was “under control.”

    Meanwhile, Jordan temporarily closed its airspace late Saturday as a precautionary measure following the Iranian missile barrage. The country’s Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission announced that the step was taken to ensure the safety of civil aviation.

    The Iranian offensive came in retaliation for Israeli airstrikes conducted early Friday, which targeted Tehran and several other cities. Iranian authorities said the Israeli strikes resulted in the deaths of multiple senior military commanders, nuclear scientists, and dozens of civilians.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Caitlin Johnstone: We are, of course, being lied to about Iran

    Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific. –

    COMMENTARY: By Caitlin Johnstone

    Iran and Israel are at war, with the US already intimately involved and likely to become more so. Which of course means we’ll be spending the foreseeable future getting bashed in the face with lies from the most powerful people in the world.

    The most immediately obvious of these is the Netanyahu-promoted narrative that Israel initiated this conflict because Iran was on the brink of developing a nuclear weapon.

    With absolutely no self-consciousness or sense of irony, the Israeli prime minister followed the attacks with a statement accusing Iran of “genocidal rhetoric” which it has backed up “with a programme to develop nuclear weapons.”


    We are, of course, being lied to about Iran           Video: Caitlin Johnstone

    Israel, as we all know, has an unacknowledged nuclear arsenal, and its leaders are presently committing genocide in Gaza while spouting genocidal rhetoric.

    “And if not stopped, Iran could produce a nuclear weapon in a very short time,” Netanyahu claimed. “It could be a year. It could be within a few months  —  less than a year. This is a clear and present danger to Israel’s very survival.”

    The Western political/media class have been dutifully promoting this line and uncritically parroting Israel’s claim that its unprovoked attack on Iran was “pre-emptive”, but there is absolutely no evidence that any of this is true.

    Benjamin Netanyahu has spent literally decades falsely claiming that Iran was a year or two away from developing a nuke, only to have the calendar prove him wrong with the passage of time over and over again.

    Iran and Israel (and the US) at war.         Video: Anti-war News

    US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard testified just weeks ago that “The IC [Intelligence Community] continues to assess that Iran is not building a nuclear weapon and Supreme Leader Khamenei has not authorised the nuclear weapons programme he suspended in 2003.”

    As journalist Séamus Malekafzali recently noted on Twitter, one of the strongest arguments that Iran had not reversed its decision to refrain from obtaining nuclear weapons is that Iranian nuclear scientists have been publicly expressing frustration about the fact that their government won’t allow them to construct a nuke.

    They want to do it, but Tehran won’t let them.

    US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth helped pave the way for Netanyahu’s claims this past Wednesday when he told the Senate that “there have been plenty of indications” Iran has been “moving their way toward something that would look a lot like a nuclear weapon.”

    This claim by Hegseth was swiftly scooped up and promoted by warmongers like Tom Cotton who said that Hegseth had “confirmed that Iran’s terrorist regime is actively working towards a nuclear weapon”.

    Cotton’s claim was then picked up by war pundit Mark Levin, who has been personally lobbying Trump to green light an attack on Iran, sarcastically quipping on Twitter, “So, SecDef Hegseth must by lying, too. Everyone’s lying except the isolationists, Koch-heads, Islamists, Chatsworth Qatarlson and their media propagandists.”

    But let’s back up and look at what Hegseth actually said. He did not say “Iran is building a nuclear weapon.” He said “there have been plenty of indications” Iran has been “moving their way toward something that would look a lot like a nuclear weapon”.

    If the US had intelligence that Iran was building a nuke, Hegseth would have just said so. But instead he performed this freakish verbal gymnastics stunt muttering about indications of something that might kinda sorta look like a nuclear weapon, which his fellow Iran hawks then falsely took and ran with as a positive assertion that Iran was building a nuke.

    There are other lies being circulated to help market this war as well. As Moon of Alabama notes, the Washington Post’s odious war propagandist David Ignatius is pushing the narrative that Iran has been cultivating a relationship with de-facto al-Qaeda leader Saif al-Adel. The lie that Saddam Hussein was in league with al-Qaeda was used two decades ago to sell the invasion of Iraq.

    At the same time, Trumpian pundits are currently circulating the narrative that the United States is full of Iranian “sleeper cells” who could activate at any moment and begin attacking Americans.

    The most egregious of these is Laura Loomer’s repeated claims that there are “millions” of such cells awaiting Iran’s orders to strike  — possibly the single most bat shit insane claim I have ever seen anyone with any major platform make, since it would mean a very sizable percentage of the US population is actually a secret Iranian proxy army.

    The fountain of lies is just getting started. There will be more. Believe nothing unless it is substantiated by mountains of evidence. These freaks have been caught lying to sell wars to the public far too many times for any of their claims to be taken on faith.

    Caitlin Johnstone is an Australian independent journalist and poet. Her articles include The UN Torture Report On Assange Is An Indictment Of Our Entire Society. She publishes a website and Caitlin’s Newsletter. This article is republished with permission.

    This article was first published on Café Pacific.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Caitlin Johnstone: We are, of course, being lied to about Iran

    Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific. –

    COMMENTARY: By Caitlin Johnstone

    Iran and Israel are at war, with the US already intimately involved and likely to become more so. Which of course means we’ll be spending the foreseeable future getting bashed in the face with lies from the most powerful people in the world.

    The most immediately obvious of these is the Netanyahu-promoted narrative that Israel initiated this conflict because Iran was on the brink of developing a nuclear weapon.

    With absolutely no self-consciousness or sense of irony, the Israeli prime minister followed the attacks with a statement accusing Iran of “genocidal rhetoric” which it has backed up “with a programme to develop nuclear weapons.”


    We are, of course, being lied to about Iran           Video: Caitlin Johnstone

    Israel, as we all know, has an unacknowledged nuclear arsenal, and its leaders are presently committing genocide in Gaza while spouting genocidal rhetoric.

    “And if not stopped, Iran could produce a nuclear weapon in a very short time,” Netanyahu claimed. “It could be a year. It could be within a few months  —  less than a year. This is a clear and present danger to Israel’s very survival.”

    The Western political/media class have been dutifully promoting this line and uncritically parroting Israel’s claim that its unprovoked attack on Iran was “pre-emptive”, but there is absolutely no evidence that any of this is true.

    Benjamin Netanyahu has spent literally decades falsely claiming that Iran was a year or two away from developing a nuke, only to have the calendar prove him wrong with the passage of time over and over again.

    Iran and Israel (and the US) at war.         Video: Anti-war News

    US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard testified just weeks ago that “The IC [Intelligence Community] continues to assess that Iran is not building a nuclear weapon and Supreme Leader Khamenei has not authorised the nuclear weapons programme he suspended in 2003.”

    As journalist Séamus Malekafzali recently noted on Twitter, one of the strongest arguments that Iran had not reversed its decision to refrain from obtaining nuclear weapons is that Iranian nuclear scientists have been publicly expressing frustration about the fact that their government won’t allow them to construct a nuke.

    They want to do it, but Tehran won’t let them.

    US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth helped pave the way for Netanyahu’s claims this past Wednesday when he told the Senate that “there have been plenty of indications” Iran has been “moving their way toward something that would look a lot like a nuclear weapon.”

    This claim by Hegseth was swiftly scooped up and promoted by warmongers like Tom Cotton who said that Hegseth had “confirmed that Iran’s terrorist regime is actively working towards a nuclear weapon”.

    Cotton’s claim was then picked up by war pundit Mark Levin, who has been personally lobbying Trump to green light an attack on Iran, sarcastically quipping on Twitter, “So, SecDef Hegseth must by lying, too. Everyone’s lying except the isolationists, Koch-heads, Islamists, Chatsworth Qatarlson and their media propagandists.”

    But let’s back up and look at what Hegseth actually said. He did not say “Iran is building a nuclear weapon.” He said “there have been plenty of indications” Iran has been “moving their way toward something that would look a lot like a nuclear weapon”.

    If the US had intelligence that Iran was building a nuke, Hegseth would have just said so. But instead he performed this freakish verbal gymnastics stunt muttering about indications of something that might kinda sorta look like a nuclear weapon, which his fellow Iran hawks then falsely took and ran with as a positive assertion that Iran was building a nuke.

    There are other lies being circulated to help market this war as well. As Moon of Alabama notes, the Washington Post’s odious war propagandist David Ignatius is pushing the narrative that Iran has been cultivating a relationship with de-facto al-Qaeda leader Saif al-Adel. The lie that Saddam Hussein was in league with al-Qaeda was used two decades ago to sell the invasion of Iraq.

    At the same time, Trumpian pundits are currently circulating the narrative that the United States is full of Iranian “sleeper cells” who could activate at any moment and begin attacking Americans.

    The most egregious of these is Laura Loomer’s repeated claims that there are “millions” of such cells awaiting Iran’s orders to strike  — possibly the single most bat shit insane claim I have ever seen anyone with any major platform make, since it would mean a very sizable percentage of the US population is actually a secret Iranian proxy army.

    The fountain of lies is just getting started. There will be more. Believe nothing unless it is substantiated by mountains of evidence. These freaks have been caught lying to sell wars to the public far too many times for any of their claims to be taken on faith.

    Caitlin Johnstone is an Australian independent journalist and poet. Her articles include The UN Torture Report On Assange Is An Indictment Of Our Entire Society. She publishes a website and Caitlin’s Newsletter. This article is republished with permission.

    This article was first published on Café Pacific.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Trump says he, Putin agree ‘war in Israel-Iran should end’

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

    U.S. President Donald Trump said he had a phone call with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Saturday over the tensions in the Middle East and Russia-Ukraine peace talks, and both of them agreed that “this war in Israel-Iran should end.”

    “He feels, as do I, this war in Israel-Iran should end,” Trump wrote on his social media platform Truth Social, adding that Putin knows Iran “very well.”

    Trump said he also explained to the Russian president that the Russia-Ukraine conflict “should also end” during the one-hour call.

    “We talked at length. Much less time was spent talking about Russia/Ukraine, but that will be for next week,” said Trump. “He (Putin) is doing the planned prisoner swaps — large numbers of prisoners are being exchanged, immediately, from both sides.”

    Saturday was Trump’s 79th birthday. Trump said that Putin wished him a happy birthday during the phone call. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China criticizes US tariff narrative as ‘one-sided, misleading’

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

    China has criticized the U.S. “reciprocal tariffs” policy for its “one-sided, misleading” narrative and erroneous logic, urging the United States to faithfully abide by rules of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and maintain stability of the global trading system.

    At a meeting of the Council for Trade in Services on Friday at WTO headquarters here, the Chinese delegation pointed out that focusing only on goods trade while overlooking services trade, the U.S. narrative on “reciprocal tariffs” is one-sided and misleading.

    The delegation said the United States has sustained long-term services trade surpluses with its major trading partners, which approached 300 billion U.S. dollars in 2024 alone.

    By deeply participating in the highest value-added activities, such as research and development, design, branding, and sales, the United States gains much higher returns in international trade and globalization than surface trade data reflects, it added.

    The delegation urged the United States not to employ a double standard regarding WTO rules. The United States cannot only allow itself to benefit while not letting others, especially developing members, benefit from the WTO, said the delegation.

    Meanwhile, it said that China and the United States have reached consensus through equal consultation, which helps to ease tensions.

    While bilateral negotiations may serve as a channel to ease and resolve trade frictions, such arrangements must be based on WTO rules, must not violate the basic principle of non-discrimination, and must not harm the interests of third parties, the delegation stressed.

    China calls on all members to address their trade concerns within the WTO framework, and to handle trade disputes through multilateral cooperation rather than unilateral measures.

    Moreover, China highlights the importance of accelerating WTO reform to strengthen an open, stable, and predictable multilateral trading system.

    The Chinese delegation’s statement resonated widely among WTO members. Both developed members, including the EU, Australia and Canada, and developing members, such as Brazil and Pakistan, made positive responses.

    The members emphasized that services represent the future of global trade. Services trade stands as a vital force in countering economic crises and in ensuring the resilience of global supply chains

    They also called for joint efforts to uphold consultation and cooperation and promote healthy and stable growth of global trade.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Connected by Gaming: Samsung Unites Global Fans To Celebrate New Era in Gaming Monitors With Odyssey

    Source: Samsung

    Odyssey Unveiled 2025 made history for both the gaming community and Samsung, as fans, creators and tech enthusiasts gathered in-person and online for the first-ever global hybrid gathering dedicated to the Odyssey monitor lineup.
     
    Held at Samsung KX in London on June 13 and streamed to audiences worldwide on the Odyssey Twitch channel, the event combined hands-on experiences with interactive digital content. Offering participants everywhere an exclusive look at the latest Odyssey innovations and a chance to connect with gaming’s most passionate voices, the stream peaked at over 40 thousand viewers — ranking top 10 worldwide in views on Twitch during its time slot, with the highest viewership in the history of the Odyssey channel.
     
    ▲ Odyssey fans, gamers and streamers gathered for the Odyssey’s first global hybrid event at Samsung KX, London. U.K.
     
    As the doors opened, onsite attendees were greeted by a vibrant showcase featuring hands-on experiences with the latest gaming monitors — including the recently launched 27-inch Odyssey 3D (G90XF) and the 4K 240Hz Odyssey OLED G8 (G81SF).
     
    ▲ Odyssey Unveiled 2025 brought the latest in gaming to viewers around the world
     
    High-profile figures such as Caedrel — one of the most recognized personalities in the League of Legends scene — and popular content creator George Clarkey joined the event to compete and be connected with fans on site and via the Odyssey Twitch stream.
     
    ▲ (From left) George Clarkey and Caedrel faced off at the Odyssey Unveiled 2025 event, which showcased the latest in the Samsung Odyssey range.
     
    The highlight of the event was the 1:1 game showdowns with the celebrated streamers. Tension mounted as they first squared off in The First Berserker: Khazan on the Odyssey 3D (G90XF).
     
    “Something about the Khazan game, when I was fighting the monsters — the immersion level was different to normal, it was levelled up,” said Caedrel about the showdown. “Especially as a creator, when you’re deep in a game for hours on end, you become so focused on your character and what’s happening around it, so you really appreciate the quality upgrades.”
     

     
    ▲ Caedrel and George Clarkey experienced the Odyssey 3D (G90XF), which breaks down barriers between imagination and reality with innovative technologies.
     
    Excitement continued to build with a tightly fought Rocket League face-off on the new Odyssey OLED G8 (G81SF), in which the both the live and online audience were on their toes as the competition peaked.
     

     
    ▲ Attendees participated in Rocket League matches with the streamers, Caedrel and George Clarkey, on Odyssey OLED G8 (G81SF).
     
    George Clarkey said: “Streaming Rocket League was definitely a highlight — I don’t think I’ve been that animated and happy playing a game in a long time. When it got to the winner takes all stage during the final match, it was competitive, silly and really good fun.”
     
    ▲ Broadcast to a global audience via the Odyssey Twitch channel, the event blended immersive, hands-on experiences with engaging interactive digital content.
     
    The energy was palpable throughout the event as the professional gamers demonstrated the power of Odyssey monitors in the series of competitive matches and creator challenges. Fans, whether on-site or remote, engaged in gaming competitions, social media activities, and giveaways, ensuring that enthusiasm remained high throughout the day.
     
    Community panels offered insights into trends shaping the future of gaming, with creators sharing firsthand how Odyssey monitors elevate their content and gameplay. At the same time, online participants joined real-time Q&As, polls and virtual tours, experiencing the event from every angle.
     

     
    ▲ Odyssey Unveiled 2025 saw creators engage with audiences throughout the day.
     
    Attendees, including Odyssey fans and gaming influencers, also enjoyed the immersive 3D gaming experience. Quadrant streamer Ria Bish (@riabish) commented on the Odyssey 3D gameplay in The First Berserker: Khazan, saying: “It feels as though I’m literally part of the game! Particularly the way everything comes to life around me — the trees and their branches passing by. It’s the best 3D experience I’ve had.”
     
    ▲ Ria Bish played The First Berserker: Khazan on Odyssey 3D (G90XF), a monitor with the industry’s leading 3D picture quality.
     
    Gamer Victoria Clay (@victoria_clay) was another of the gaming personalities who experienced the new monitors. “I feel much more immersed in the gameplay. It feels like the depth of perception you would have in the real world! Even simple things like the physics of when I’m walking — the character definitely feels more alive. And finer details like the footprints in the snow, it’s amazing.”
     
    ▲ Victoria Clay playing on Odyssey 3D (G90XF) with eye-tracking technology and view mapping algorithms.
     
    Visitors could also play the Rocket League on the 27-inch Odyssey OLED G8 (G81SF), which has 166 pixels-per-inch — the industry’s highest pixel density for a screen of that size — and is the industry’s first 27-inch 4K monitor with a 240Hz refresh rate.
     
    “Everything feels so smooth and dynamic,” said Mohammed Ataya, an Odyssey fan. “The graphics are so crisp. All the details, the signs, and the lighting! It seems sharper and more real than anything I’ve experienced.”
     
    ▲ Gaming fans playing Rocket League on Odyssey OLED G8 (G81SF), testing its 240Hz refresh rate & 0.03ms response time.
     
    The presence of streamers went beyond just competition; it became an opportunity to engage with the gaming community. After the event, Caedrel and George Clarkey discussed their impressions of the new Odyssey monitors, the importance of in-person gaming events, and what excites them most about the future of immersive gameplay. Their insights gave fans a closer look at how Samsung’s latest technology is redefining the gaming experience for both players and creators.
     
    Commenting on the Odyssey monitors, George Clarkey remarked: “With Odyssey 3D, it doesn’t feel like you’re just looking at a monitor, it feels as though you’re looking into one. A lot of gaming developments recently seem to focus on how to make gaming more efficient, so this is a nice alternative branch which is more about having fun and being immersed. It allows me to feel inside of the game, and I think that shows.”
     
    Caedrel said: “The best way to describe this is taking the next tech leap in gaming. Everything felt very seamless and natural — it makes me excited for where immersive gaming could go in the future.”
     

     
    ▲ The Odyssey Unveiled 2025 event offered viewers the opportunity to engage with some of gaming’s biggest personalities.
     
    Gaming continues to evolve in exciting and innovative ways. Samsung’s Odyssey event brought fans together to celebrate the future of gaming through its immersive monitors and groundbreaking features, showcasing Samsung’s commitment to reshaping how games are experienced by fans globally.
     
    Odyssey Unveiled 2025 created memorable experiences for participants both onsite and for those watching on the Odyssey Twitch channel. Fans will have a chance to relive the event with highlight reels and behind-the-scenes footage available on Samsung’s social media accounts, bringing the global community closer to Odyssey than ever before.
     
    To catch up on the action or see the best moments, visit the official Samsung Odyssey Twitch channel at https://www.twitch.tv/samsungodyssey.
     
    ▲ Held at Samsung KX in London, the Odyssey Unveiled 2025 event was streamed to viewers worldwide.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Water incident, Pātea

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Attribute to Detective Sergeant Chris Allemann:

    Two people have died after a boat capsized off Pātea this morning.

    Three people were aboard the boat when it got into trouble in water off Pātea, about 10.15am.

    One person was located in the water after the boat capsized. They were treated by ambulance at the scene and have been transported to hospital.

    Sadly, two people died in the incident and their bodies were recovered by 11.30am.

    Police are providing support to their next of kin.

    The cause of the capsizing will be investigated, but at this time Police are unable to provide any further details.

    Police would like to thank boaties, Coastguard South Taranaki and Coastguard Whanganui volunteers, and our emergency service colleagues for their help.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for June 15, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on June 15, 2025.

    NZ’s Islamic Council calls on Luxon to condemn Israel over ‘unprovoked’ military strikes
    Asia Pacific Report The Islamic Council of New Zealand (ICONZ) has protested over Israel’s “unprovoked military strikes” against Iran, killing at least 80 people — 20 of them children, and called on the NZ government to publicly condemn Israeli’s actions. An open letter to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, read out to a Palestine rally in

    A video like no other – why the Israeli military revealed its own failure
    By Ramzy Baroud and Romana Rubeo Unlike the Palestinian message, the Israeli message is not global, but very much a localised cry for help — get us out of Gaza. This is not your typical video. The event itself might be similar to numerous other events in Gaza — a fighter emerging from a tunnel,

    Twyford condemns weak action by NZ over Israel’s ‘ruthless’ apartheid
    Asia Pacific Report Labour MP for Te Atatu Phil Twyford criticised the New Zealand government today for failing to take stronger action against Israel over its genocide and starvation strategy in Gaza, saying that NZ should implement comprehensive sanctions and recognise Palestine. Speaking at a rally in Henderson organised by the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

    As war breaks out with Israel, Iran has run out of good options
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ali Mamouri, Research Fellow, Middle East Studies, Deakin University The scale of Israel’s strikes on multiple, sensitive Iranian military and nuclear sites on Friday was unprecedented. It was the biggest attack on Iran since the Iran–Iraq War in the 1980s. As expected, Iran responded swiftly, even as

    ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for June 14, 2025
    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on June 14, 2025.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Exhibits relevant to Maritime Silk Road showcased at China (Hainan) Museum of South China Sea

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

    Exhibits relevant to Maritime Silk Road showcased at China (Hainan) Museum of South China Sea

    Updated: June 15, 2025 09:44 Xinhua
    This photo taken on June 12, 2025 shows a carved ivory chess set displayed at the China (Hainan) Museum of the South China Sea in Qionghai, south China’s Hainan Province. A great number of exhibits relevant to the Maritime Silk Road are showcased at the China (Hainan) Museum of the South China Sea, providing valuable insights into the prosperity of the Maritime Silk Road in ancient China and the exchanges between Chinese and foreign civilizations. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on June 12, 2025 shows the glazed bracelets displayed at the China (Hainan) Museum of the South China Sea in Qionghai, south China’s Hainan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on June 10, 2025 shows blue and white porcelain works displayed at the China (Hainan) Museum of the South China Sea in Qionghai, south China’s Hainan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on May 17, 2023 shows an ancient ship model at the China (Hainan) Museum of the South China Sea in Qionghai, south China’s Hainan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on June 12, 2025 shows a carved ivory box with patterns of dragons and clouds displayed at the China (Hainan) Museum of the South China Sea in Qionghai, south China’s Hainan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on June 10, 2025 shows an elephant-shaped pot displayed at the China (Hainan) Museum of the South China Sea in Qionghai, south China’s Hainan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on June 12, 2025 shows the bluish-white-glazed powder boxes decorated with chrysanthemum pattern displayed at the China (Hainan) Museum of the South China Sea in Qionghai, south China’s Hainan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on June 10, 2025 shows a jar displayed at the China (Hainan) Museum of the South China Sea in Qionghai, south China’s Hainan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on June 13, 2025 shows porcelain exhibits at the China (Hainan) Museum of the South China Sea in Qionghai, south China’s Hainan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on June 10, 2025 shows the China (Hainan) Museum of the South China Sea in Qionghai, south China’s Hainan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Convenient logistics brings more intimate China-Chile ties

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

    People visit the 3rd Tianjin International Shipping Industry Expo in Tianjin, north China, June 12, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhao Zishuo)

    Chilean cherries are ubiquitous in most supermarkets in north China’s port city of Tianjin.

    The transcontinental “Cherry Express” linking Tianjin and Chile was launched in January 2024.

    Upon arrival at Tianjin Port, it took just five hours for Chilean cherries to be delivered to major markets in Tianjin and neighboring Beijing and Hebei Province.

    According to the Tianjin Port Group, in 2024 alone, the route completed over 40 voyages. In January this year, approximately 30,000 tonnes of Chilean cherries arrived in Tianjin via this route.

    This logistics channel has been essential in ensuring Chile’s products arrive fresh and in optimal condition to northern Chinese markets.

    Cherries are delicate and sensitive to temperature and humidity changes. To maintain their quality, refrigeration should run continuously during transportation.

    Tianjin Dongjiang Customs coordinated closely with the shipping line in advance. They obtained the vessel schedule and container details, developed a detailed unloading plan, and held meetings with importers, agents, terminals, and inspection sites.

    From late November to late February every year, abundant Chilean cherries can be seen at Tianjin’s largest agricultural market.

    “After Tianjin Port clearance, fresh Chilean cherries reach our market in about 2 hours. Over 30 merchants here sell them, with a daily sales volume of 200 to 300 tonnes, greatly enriching fruit supply for customers in Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region,” said a staff member of the Haijixing agricultural market.

    In addition to cherries, other Chilean products — such as blueberries, frozen seafood, premium fish, dried fruits and fine wines — are entering through Tianjin Port. From the port, they are distributed to markets such as Xinfadi in Beijing and Gaobeidian in Hebei, where the presence of Chilean products is steadily increasing.

    “We are eager to further strengthen this gateway. Tianjin can be a central hub in Chile’s strategy for positioning in China — not only for fresh products and food, but also for intermediate goods and services. We are working to improve our connectivity with inland cities, where demand is growing for high-quality, safe, and traceable products such as those from Chile,” said Pablo Arriarán Ahumada, ambassador of Chile to China at the 3rd Tianjin International Shipping Industry Expo (TISIE).

    This year marks 55 years of diplomatic relations between China and Chile.

    Since the signing of the free trade agreement between two countries, the first that China signed with a Latin American country, trade between China and Chile has grown fast, driven by trade in key sectors such as mining, food, services, and clean energy.

    China COSCO Shipping Corp., Ltd. has launched a direct weekly service connecting major Chinese ports like Shanghai and Ningbo to Chile’s Port of San Antonio.

    “We transport Chinese goods — including automobiles, electromechanical products, and apparel to Chile, and bring back fresh Chilean produce like fruit and beef on return voyages,” said a COSCO representative at the TISIE.

    “The direct route significantly facilitates trade between China and Chile, with the diversity of shipped goods continually expanding,” he said.

    “China’s shipping and logistics industry provides stability to world trade. It makes it easier and more efficient to do trade,” Arriarán said.

    Chinese investment in Chile has also grown steadily. Chinese companies have invested in strategic sectors such as port infrastructure, electric transmission lines, lithium and copper mining, and the development of solar and wind energy.

    Moreover, China has implemented a trial policy that unilaterally grants visa-free entry to citizens of five Latin American countries including Chile since June 1.

    “We do think that there will be lots of Chilean visitors coming to China, on business, tourism, and leisure exploration. It’s going to be easier also for business people. It’s a very positive initiative,” Arriarán said.

    “The distance between Chile and China is great in geographical terms, but small in strategic and human terms. We are committed to continuing to build bridges, open routes, and jointly develop a future-focused agenda,” Arriarán said.  

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Smart factories power China’s green industrial transformation

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

    Inside an intelligent manufacturing base of Offshore Oil Engineering Co., Ltd. (COOEC) in Tianjin, the scene is far removed from that of a traditional factory.

    Three massive automated welding machines silently go about their work, emitting sparks but no smoke, with no workers in sight.

    Instead, automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and gantry cranes quietly shuttle materials to designated locations. Only a few figures holding controllers among the steel plates and pipes indicate that humans are still steering the operation.

    Seated in front of two computer screens, 38-year-old Li Guochao adjusts parameters on digital work orders, operating the machines remotely with a click of the mouse. “The smart factory makes everything more efficient and cleaner,” he said.

    For Li, the move from a noisy, smog-filled outdoor workspace to a cool, comfortable indoor station felt like a “miracle.” However, his experience is just one part of a broader transformation underway at the 575,000-square-meter base, which houses four intelligent workshops and is spearheading a green revolution.

    China’s manufacturing sector has long been criticized for its reputation as an energy-intensive, polluting, and resource-intensive industry. But since 2012, the country has been actively shifting toward new development models, with green growth at the forefront.

    In the years since, companies like COOEC have embraced energy conservation and emissions reduction as essential components of high-quality development.

    At its fully operational Tianjin base, COOEC has introduced more than 600 pieces of advanced, energy-efficient, and intelligent equipment. Powered by big data and artificial intelligence, these tools enable automated cutting, grinding, assembly and welding in the prefabrication process.

    Plate cutting is now 90 percent automated, and 70 percent of deck panel welding is done automatically, boosting overall productivity by more than 20 percent compared to traditional methods.

    The base also developed China’s first integrated intelligent manufacturing management platform for offshore oil and gas equipment. The streamlined production process helps reduce steel usage by 10 percent.

    “We hope these smart manufacturing efforts will support high-quality development in the traditionally heavy marine equipment sector,” said Wang Jinyuan, deputy general manager of COOEC’s Tianjin Intelligent Manufacturing Company.

    The push aligns with China’s national goals. According to the 14th five-year plan for energy conservation and emission reduction, released by the State Council in 2022, energy consumption per unit of GDP is set to decrease by 13.5 percent by 2025. To meet these targets, manufacturers are turning to digital technology to restructure their production.

    China’s booming digital economy has given manufacturers the confidence to make the leap. The country is now home to more than 30,000 basic-level smart factories, 1,200 advanced-level facilities, and over 230 at the excellence level, covering over 80 percent of major manufacturing industries. The accelerating integration of digital and real economies is driving quality and efficiency.

    In 2023, China made new quality productive forces a national priority, with intelligent, high-end, and green manufacturing forming the backbone of this transformation.

    At the COOEC Tianjin base, this shift is visible at every stage of the production chain, from energy to manufacturing to storage.

    In the smart storage center, deputy manager Wang Xiaoli of the procurement logistics unit taps her phone. Dozens of windows swing open, and the hum of air conditioners fades. “The system detected that outdoor temperature and lighting were optimal, so it recommended shutting off air conditioners to save power,” she said.

    According to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, China had cultivated 6,430 green factories as of January 2024. Since 2012, energy consumption and carbon emissions per unit of GDP have fallen by over 26 percent and 35 percent, respectively, making China one of the world’s fastest improvers in energy efficiency.

    With the results of the green transformation becoming increasingly evident, China has set a new goal that by 2030, green development will underpin new industrialization, with green factory output accounting for over 40 percent of total manufacturing output.

    To that end, COOEC is expanding its solar generation capacity. Building on its 1.1 million kWh annual output from rooftop photovoltaics, a second phase is underway. Once connected by the end of this year, the plant will generate 2.6 million kWh annually, covering 25 percent of its electricity needs.

    “As of the end of 2024, more than 140 of our suppliers had earned green certification,” said Tang Lijun, deputy general manager of the COOEC procurement shared center. The company now incorporates green metrics into supplier rankings and has completed over 11,500 green evaluations by 2024.

    “Our aim is to raise awareness and encourage suppliers to pursue green transformation and certification,” Tang said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Palestine Forum of New Zealand: Government Must Ensure Safety of Its Citizens in the Global March To Gaza

    Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand

    The Palestine Forum of New Zealand reminds the government of its duty to protect all New Zealand citizens, wherever they may be.

    Among those currently participating in the Global March to Gaza are New Zealand citizens who travelled from across the country, alongside others who joined the mission from overseas. The government of New Zealand bears full responsibility for their safety and well-being.

    In light of escalating risks in international waters and Israeli aggression against humanitarian convoys, we call on the New Zealand Government to immediately take all necessary diplomatic and consular actions to safeguard its citizens and demand their protection in accordance with international law.

    Maher Nazzal
    Palestine Forum of New Zealand

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 2025–26 ACT Budget: what’s in it for Gungahlin

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    There will be new cricket nets installed at Bonner oval.

    In brief

    • The 2025–26 ACT Budget includes investment in community facilities in Gungahlin.
    • These include shop upgrades, a playground and new cricket nets.
    • This article overviews some of the facilities receiving support.

    Gungahlin residents will see improvements to a range of community facilities across the region.

    The 2025–26 ACT Budget will invest in:

    • upgraded sport and recreation facilities
    • a new playground
    • new path and footpath improvements
    • local shops revitalisation
    • early work to prepare for future infrastructure in Casey.

    These improvements will support the region’s growing population.

    A new playground

    A new playground will be built in Amaroo. It will be located at the local shops on Katherine Avenue.

    Revitalised local shops

    The Palmerston shops will receive upgrades. These will make the space safer and more accessible for the community.

    Investing in sport and recreation

    There will be new cricket nets installed at Bonner oval.

    The Gungahlin Enclosed Oval (Crinigan Circle) and Harrison oval will benefit from female-friendly changeroom upgrades. These are part of ACT-wide investment in inclusive sports facilities.

    Better paths and safer streets

    There will be a new walking and cycling path built along Victoria Street in Hall.

    Footpaths will be improved and better connected as part of an ACT-wide program.

    Lighting upgrades around the region will improve safety and visibility.

    Supporting Gungahlin’s future

    Long-term planning is underway to meet the needs of a growing Gungahlin.

    New critical infrastructure is a step closer and will ensure residents can access the things they need, close to home.

    The Budget includes investment in early work in Casey.

    This will prepare the precinct for the development of a new health centre and future infrastructure, such as potential community facilities and a new emergency services station.

    Read more like this:

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The government has determined the procedure for assigning one-time payments to militiamen of the DPR and LPR who have received disabilities

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    According to the decree of the President, the militias of the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics will be provided with one-time payments depending on their disability group. The resolution on the procedure for their appointment was approved by the Government.

    We are talking about people who took part in military operations as part of the Armed Forces of the Donetsk People’s Republic, the People’s Militia of the Lugansk People’s Republic, military formations and bodies of these republics since May 11, 2014 and who became disabled as a result.

    According to the Presidential decree, those with Group I disabilities will receive a one-time payment of 6.05 million rubles, Group II – 5.2 million rubles, Group III – 4.4 million rubles.

    To receive the payment, you must contact the military commissariat of the municipality, the territorial body of the Ministry of Internal Affairs or the FSB at the place of residence (stay) with a written application. You must also provide an identity document, a certificate from the federal institution of medical and social expertise confirming the fact of disability, a conclusion of the military medical commission and a military ID.

    Payments will be made by the financial departments of the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the FSB, depending on the departmental affiliation of the military medical commission that issued a conclusion on the presence of a causal relationship between the injury (wound, trauma, concussion) or illness received by the militiaman and his participation in military operations.

    The document will be published.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AFSCME’s Saunders: We stand with our family in Minnesota and demand that justice be served

    Source: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Union

    AFSCME President Lee Saunders released the following statement after the tragic assassination of Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman:

    “We at AFSCME are heartbroken and outraged that a day in which hundreds of thousands of Americans engaged in peaceful protest was tarnished by heinous acts of politically motivated violence. The tragic assassination of Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, as well as the attempted assassination of State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette, strike at the very heart of our democratic rights and ideals.

    “We mourn this senseless loss of life and stand with our family in Minnesota in demanding that justice be served. Make no mistake: these murderous acts and other politically targeted threats of violence are intended to silence dissent and intimidate lawmakers and everyday citizens committed to fighting for dignity, opportunity and basic fairness for America’s working families. But we will not be silenced, nor will we be intimidated. No act of political violence will weaken our resolve. We will continue to stand up, speak out, and get organized — because our democracy depends on it.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ’s Islamic Council calls on Luxon to condemn Israel over ‘unprovoked’ military strikes

    Asia Pacific Report

    The Islamic Council of New Zealand (ICONZ) has protested over Israel’s “unprovoked military strikes” against Iran, killing at least 80 people — 20 of them children, and called on the NZ government to publicly condemn Israeli’s actions.

    An open letter to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, read out to a Palestine rally in Henderson yesterday by advocate Dr Adnan Ali, said the attacks — targeting residential areas as well as military and nuclear facilities — represented a “grave escalation in regional tensions and pose a serious threat to global peace and stability”.

    “This act of aggression undermines international diplomatic efforts and risks igniting a broader conflict that could engulf the Middle East and beyond,” the letter said.

    The council’s letter, signed by ICONZ president Dr Muhammad Sajjad Haider Naqvi, said it was “particularly alarmed by the timing of the strikes, which come amid ongoing negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme”.

    The ICONZ letter sent to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on Friday protesting over the Israeli attacks on Iran. Image: APR

    It said the Israeli attack set a “dangerous precedent” and violated international law and sovereignty.

    The council urged the NZ government to:

    • Publicly condemn the Israeli government’s actions and call for an immediate cessation of hostilities;
    • Engage diplomatically with international partners to de-escalate tensions and promote peaceful resolution;
    • Support humanitarian efforts to assist affected civilians in Iran; and
    • Reaffirm NZ’s commitment to international law, peace and justice.

    The council said New Zealand had “long been a voice of reason and compassion on the global stage” and it hoped that this would guide Luxon’s leadership.

    In retaliatory missile attacks by Iran, at least four people have been killed and 200 wounded in Israel.

    Meanwhile, Al Jazeera’s Bernard Smith, reporting from Amman, Jordan, because Israel has banned Al Jazeera from reporting on its territory, said attacking Iran allowed Israel to deflect attention away from Gaza.

    “Israel says the focus of its military activities is now on Iran and not on Gaza. But it also conveniently allows . . . the focus of attention on what’s happening in Israel to move from Gaza to Iran,” he said.

    “Until Israel hit those targets in Iran, it was coming under increasing international scrutiny over the conduct of the war in Gaza.”

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ’s Islamic Council calls on Luxon to condemn Israel over ‘unprovoked’ military strikes

    Asia Pacific Report

    The Islamic Council of New Zealand (ICONZ) has protested over Israel’s “unprovoked military strikes” against Iran, killing at least 80 people — 20 of them children, and called on the NZ government to publicly condemn Israeli’s actions.

    An open letter to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, read out to a Palestine rally in Henderson yesterday by advocate Dr Adnan Ali, said the attacks — targeting residential areas as well as military and nuclear facilities — represented a “grave escalation in regional tensions and pose a serious threat to global peace and stability”.

    “This act of aggression undermines international diplomatic efforts and risks igniting a broader conflict that could engulf the Middle East and beyond,” the letter said.

    The council’s letter, signed by ICONZ president Dr Muhammad Sajjad Haider Naqvi, said it was “particularly alarmed by the timing of the strikes, which come amid ongoing negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme”.

    The ICONZ letter sent to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on Friday protesting over the Israeli attacks on Iran. Image: APR

    It said the Israeli attack set a “dangerous precedent” and violated international law and sovereignty.

    The council urged the NZ government to:

    • Publicly condemn the Israeli government’s actions and call for an immediate cessation of hostilities;
    • Engage diplomatically with international partners to de-escalate tensions and promote peaceful resolution;
    • Support humanitarian efforts to assist affected civilians in Iran; and
    • Reaffirm NZ’s commitment to international law, peace and justice.

    The council said New Zealand had “long been a voice of reason and compassion on the global stage” and it hoped that this would guide Luxon’s leadership.

    In retaliatory missile attacks by Iran, at least four people have been killed and 200 wounded in Israel.

    Meanwhile, Al Jazeera’s Bernard Smith, reporting from Amman, Jordan, because Israel has banned Al Jazeera from reporting on its territory, said attacking Iran allowed Israel to deflect attention away from Gaza.

    “Israel says the focus of its military activities is now on Iran and not on Gaza. But it also conveniently allows . . . the focus of attention on what’s happening in Israel to move from Gaza to Iran,” he said.

    “Until Israel hit those targets in Iran, it was coming under increasing international scrutiny over the conduct of the war in Gaza.”

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Samsung Galaxy S25+ Powers Van Gogh Museum’s New Audio Tour

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced a three-year partnership with the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, forging a bold new convergence of artistic expression and cutting-edge technology. As part of this collaboration, the museum’s renewed audio tour — powered by Galaxy S25+ — offers visitors innovative ways to engage with the world’s largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s artwork.
     
    “We believe technology should open doors to inspiration and connection,” said Sean Yun, President and CEO of Samsung Electronics Benelux. “Our partnership with the Van Gogh Museum is a powerful example of how mobile innovation can bring cultural experiences to life in more intuitive and personal ways for people everywhere.”
     

     
    Officially launched on June 10, the Van Gogh Museum’s redesigned audio tour uses 1,600 Galaxy S25+ smartphones to deliver an upgraded storytelling experience, replacing the previous audio tour hardware with a more compact, lightweight and user-friendly interface. Visitors also benefit from clearer voice audio and enhanced display quality — which enable rich, detailed visuals.
     
    As part of the long-term vision for this partnership, Samsung and the Van Gogh Museum are working on further upgrades to the audio tour that will integrate Samsung’s renowned Galaxy AI features for a more personalised visitor experience.
     

     
    To commemorate this multi-year collaboration, Samsung will launch Van Gogh Museum branded cases created exclusively for Galaxy smartphones. The designs are inspired by Vincent van Gogh’s famous paintings including the Sunflowers and his self-portrait. These promotional items will be available for purchase at Samsung Experience Stores and the Samsung Online Store in the Netherlands, as well as at the Van Gogh Museum store and its online store.
     
    “At the Van Gogh Museum, we aim to be at the top of our game and in response to our own times, and to do so in our own innovative way,” said Emilie Gordenker, Director of the Van Gogh Museum. “We are delighted to collaborate with Samsung as a technology partner to make the museum experience even more engaging.”

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Matariki mā Puanga

    Source: NZ Department of Conservation

    With all eyes on the stars, what are people looking at and why? Let’s introduce the stars of Matariki and Puanga.

    Matariki and Puanga are stars that sit in the night sky together to signal the start of the Māori new year for different iwi.

    📷: Fraser Gunn 

    The pre-dawn rising of Matariki, the cluster of stars also known as the Pleiades, marks for many Māori the arrival of The New Year.

    Puanga is a single star. It’s not part of the Matariki cluster but appears in the evening sky shortly before Matariki rises each year. Puanga rises higher in the sky than Matariki so it’s recognised by iwi and hapū that can’t see Matariki from their location. 

    This year’s theme of Matariki mā Puanga also highlights communities who observe Puanga astronomical traditions and is all about celebrating and learning about the Māori new year together.  

    This is a time to slow down and reflect, come together with family and friends, to feast and remember our loved ones who have passed. It is also a time to plan, look forward to the future, and, most importantly, connect with nature.

    Traditionally tohunga would look to the stars and use Matariki and Puanga as an indicator to predict things such as the upcoming year’s harvest and weather. For example, if Tupuānuku was shining bright, this could indicate a plentiful harvest of kumara or crops from the māra kai (food gardens) in the upcoming season, but if Waipunarangi was difficult to see and hazy a wet and rainy season was to be expected.

    The nine stars of Matariki, are each intrinsically connected to the natural world around us:

    Matariki is the star that signifies reflection, hope, our connection to the environment and the gathering of people.

    Matariki is also the Mother of the other stars in the cluster.

    Pōhutukawa is the star connected with the dead, particularly those who have passed since the last rising of Matariki.

    Tupuānuku is the star connected with food that grows in or on the ground. ‘Tupu’ means to grow, whilst ‘nuku’ is short for ‘Papatuanuku,’ meaning earth. When Matariki sets in May, the food stores are full from the harvest, ready for winter.

    Tupuārangi is the star connected with food from above or in the sky. During the rising of Matariki, kererū are at their fattest. Traditionally they were harvested, cooked, preserved and stored as another food source.

    Waitī is the star connected to fresh water and the creatures that live in our rivers, lakes and streams. The rising of Matariki signals the migration of the korokoro or lamprey. This eel-like creature held special significance to Māori as another essential food source.

    Waitā is the star connected to the ocean and the many foods gathered from the sea. Waitā is also closely linked to the tides and floodwaters.

    Waipunarangi is the star connected to the rain, and its name means “water that pools in the sky.”

    Ururangi is the star connected to winds, and its name means “the winds of the sky.”

    Hiwa-i-te-rangi is the star connected to the promise of a prosperous season. It is also known as the wishing star and would be used to set intentions with people sending Hiwa-i-te-rangi their hopes and dreams for the year ahead.

    Read more on Matariki here.

    Puanga would often be connected to food and the harvest. If the star was low down and dim in the nightsky then the coming year would be a year of abundance. If the star was bright and high in the sky then it would be a bad year for crops.

    The best time to view the rise of Matariki this year is between 19 June – 22 June before sunrise. Watch below for tips on spotting Matariki by using identifiable stars as markers.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Employers and employees should make prior work arrangements in times of tropical cyclones and rainstorms

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Employers and employees should make prior work arrangements in times of tropical cyclones and rainstorms 
         “In drawing up and implementing the work arrangements and contingency measures 
         To avoid misunderstandings, disputes and confusion, employers should consult and engage employees when drawing up the arrangements and make appropriate updates or amendments based on the experience of each occasion and the needs of both employers and employees, as well as the actual situations. The work arrangements should cover the following matters:
     
    * arrangements in respect of reporting for duty;
    * arrangements in respect of early release from work;
    * arrangements in respect of resumption of work (e.g. the number of hours within which employees should resume duty after the warning concerned is cancelled or when the extreme conditions come to an end, and when safety and traffic conditions allow);
    * arrangements in respect of remote work such as work from home (if applicable) (e.g. duty and work arrangements during and after tropical cyclone warnings, rainstorm warnings or extreme conditions);
    * arrangements regarding working hours, wages and allowances (e.g. calculation of wages and allowances in respect of reporting for duty and absence); and
    * special arrangements in respect of staff required to report for duty in times of adverse weather and extreme conditions.
     
         “Employers should conduct a timely and realistic assessment of whether there is any need for requiring staff to report for duty     at workplaces    
         When a Pre-No. 8 Special Announcement is issued during working hours, within two hours before the Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 is expected to take effect, employers should release employees from workplaces or from work in stages or arrange for them to work remotely according to the agreed work arrangements. To ensure the safety of employees and to enable them to arrive home before suspension of public transport services, employees who have mobility problems (for example, pregnant employees or those with a disability), employees who rely on transport services which are prone to being affected by adverse weather conditions (for example, ferry services) to get home, and those who work in or are living in remote areas (for example, outlying islands) should be given priority to leave. Other employees should be released from workplaces or from work in stages according to their travelling distance or the time required for returning home.
     
    If an Amber, Red or Black Rainstorm Warning Signal is issued during working hours, employees working indoors should continue to work as usual unless it is dangerous to do so. Supervisors of employees working outdoors or in exposed areas should suspend outdoor duties as soon as practicable. They should arrange for their employees to take shelter temporarily and resume duty only when weather conditions permit. If the Black Rainstorm Warning Signal is still in force by the end of working hours, employees should stay in a safe place until the heavy rain has passed. A suitable area in the workplace should be made available by employers as temporary shelter for employees.
       
    If it is necessary for employees to report for duty at workplaces under adverse weather or extreme conditions, employers should discuss and agree with them in advance on the duty arrangements and contingency measures. If public transport services are suspended or limited when Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 (T8) or higher, Black Rainstorm Warning Signal or extreme conditions are in force, employers should provide safe transport services for employees travelling to and from workplaces, or grant them an extra travelling allowance.
     
    The spokesman also reminded employers to observe the statutory liabilities and requirements under the Employment Ordinance, Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance, Factories and Industrial Undertakings Ordinance, Employees’ Compensation Ordinance and Minimum Wage Ordinance.
     
        “As natural calamities cannot be avoided, for employees who are not able to report for duty or resume work on time due to adverse weather or extreme conditions, employers should neither deduct their wages, good attendance bonuses or allowances, nor reduce employees’ entitlement to annual leave, statutory holidays or rest days under the Employment Ordinance, or ask for additional hours of work from employees to compensate for the loss of working hours when they are unable to report for duty,” he said.
     
    Employers should note that they have an obligation to provide and maintain a safe working environment for their employees under the Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance. If employees are required to work in times of tropical cyclone warnings, rainstorm warnings or extreme conditions, employers should ensure that the risks at work are reduced as far as reasonably practicable. Moreover, under the Employees’ Compensation Ordinance, employers are liable to pay compensation for injuries or deaths incurred when employees are travelling by a direct route from their residence to their workplace, or from their workplace back to their residence after work, four hours before or after working hours on a day when there is a T8 signal or higher, a Red or Black Rainstorm Warning Signal or extreme conditions are in force.
     
         The LD has published the “Code of Practice in Times of Adverse Weather and ‘Extreme Conditions’”, which provides the major principles, reference guidelines and information on relevant legislation on making work arrangements for the reference of employers and employees. The booklet can be obtained from branch offices of the Labour Relations Division or downloaded from the department’s webpage (    www.labour.gov.hk/eng/public/wcp/Rainstorm.pdfIssued at HKT 12:20

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “ICH Infinity∞” Fun Day temporarily suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​As the Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 3 will be issued by the Hong Kong Observatory, the “ICH Infinity∞” Fun Day held at the Hong Kong Intangible Cultural Heritage Centre (at Sam Tung Uk Museum, Tsuen Wan) today (June 14) will be temporarily suspended in the afternoon. Members of the public are advised not to visit. 
     
    Depending on the weather condition, the “ICH Infinity∞” Fun Day may re-open where circumstances permit. Please pay attention to the relevant news announcement.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SITI attends Viva Technology 2025 in Paris, France (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, attended Viva Technology 2025 (VivaTech) in Paris, France, yesterday (June 13, Paris time). In his keynote speech at a seminar and networking reception themed “From Hong Kong to the World: Embarking on the New Journey of Innovation” organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Professor Sun said Hong Kong is forging ahead with a clear vision to develop as an international innovation and technology (I&T) centre, and is committed to pushing boundaries, embracing change, and seizing global opportunities.

    Professor Sun said the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has been introducing agile policies, building world-class infrastructure and facilitating global I&T collaboration. He noted the flagship research and development (R&D) initiative, InnoHK, fosters global R&D collaboration. Hong Kong is also carrying out meticulous planning for building artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem, including AI Supercomputing Centre opened last year and the Hong Kong AI Research and Development Institute to be established, together with $10 billion dollars-worth Innovation and Technology Industry-Oriented Fund channeling more market capital to turbocharge strategic industries, with AI at the core.

    Highlighting that Hong Kong being an ideal gateway for global enterprises to enter the Mainland market, Professor Sun said the HKSAR Government has been actively attracting overseas and the Mainland I&T enterprises to set up or expand their businesses in Hong Kong. Companies choosing HK for the international headquarters exemplify Hong Kong’s important role as a “super connector” and a “super value-adder” between Mainland China and the rest of the world, serving as a two-way springboard for attracting overseas enterprises and helping Mainland enterprises to “go global”.

    During the seminar and networking reception, Professor Sun also exchanged views with members of the local I&T sector, investors and start-ups’ founders on I&T development and collaboration.

    Professor Sun also visited the Hong Kong Tech Pavilion. Twenty start-ups from the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation and Cyberport participated this year, showcasing cutting-edge solutions and innovations in areas of AI, robotics, HealthTech, sustainable and ClimateTech, and Fintech. At the same time, Professor Sun toured the Canada Pavilion set up by Canada which was selected as country of the year for VivaTech 2025, the China Pavilion and pavilions set up by other leading enterprises and start-ups where he had a brief exchange with representatives of the participating organisations to learn more on their innovative solutions.

    In the evening, Professor Sun met with Mr Emmanuel Carcassonne, the Chairman of La French Tech Hong Kong-Shenzhen, a community dedicated to supporting the development of the French startup ecosystem both in France and internationally. Professor Sun said that Hong Kong is a reliable partner for French startups to settle and expand businesses in Hong Kong.

    In the afternoon, Professor Sun paid a courtesy call on Minister Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in France Mr Chen Li, to brief him on the work of developing Hong Kong into an international I&T centre, enhancing the I&T ecosystem, fostering co-ordinated development among upstream, midstream and downstream, as well as the city’s continuous efforts in integrating into national I&T development.

    Professor Sun will continue his visit to Paris today (June 14, Paris time) and depart for the Netherlands on June 15 (Amsterdam time).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – Water protection and management – 13-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Water is essential for human, animal and plant life and for the economy. Its protection and management transcend national boundaries. The EU’s water policy plays a key role in preserving the environment, supported by legislation that safeguards water sources and both freshwater and marine ecosystems. These laws also ensure the cleanliness of drinking and bathing water. The EU Water Framework Directive establishes a legal framework to protect and restore clean water and to ensure its long-term sustainable use.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU Fact Sheets – Public health – 13-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    EU public health policy is under continuous development. While several measures were triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, the EU delivered by addressing both immediate and future health concerns, building resilience against cross-border health threats, implementing Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan (better screening and preventive measures), advancing the pharmaceutical strategy for Europe (making sure EU patients have timely and equitable access to medicines) and enhancing the digitalisation of health systems.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese FM holds phone talks with Iranian counterpart

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

    BEIJING, June 14 — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi had a phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Saturday.

    Araghchi briefed Wang on the latest regional developments and expressed his hope that the international community would speak with one voice in urging Israel to halt its military operations.

    He thanked China for its consistent understanding and support of Iran’s position and expressed confidence that China will play an even more important role in promoting regional peace and stability.

    For his part, Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that China condemns Israel’s violation of Iran’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, and firmly opposes the reckless attacks targeting Iranian officials and causing civilian casualties.

    China supports Iran in safeguarding its national sovereignty, defending its legitimate rights and interests, and ensuring the safety of its people, he said.

    Israel’s actions, Wang said, seriously violate the principles of the UN Charter and the basic norms governing international relations. In particular, Israeli attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities have set a dangerous precedent with potentially catastrophic consequences, he noted.

    Wang said China is willing to maintain communication with Iran and other relevant parties to continue playing a constructive role in de-escalating the situation.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese FM talks to Israeli counterpart over phone

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

    BEIJING, June 14 — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke to his Israeli counterpart, Gideon Sa’ar, over the phone on Saturday.

    In the phone call, Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that China firmly opposes Israel’s use of force against Iran in violation of international law.

    The immediate priority is to avoid conflict escalation, keep the region from falling into greater turmoil and return to diplomacy for resolving disputes, Wang said.

    He added that there is still room for a diplomatic solution to the Iranian nuclear issue as military means cannot deliver lasting peace.

    China urged both Israel and Iran to resolve differences through dialogue and seek peaceful coexistence, Wang said, adding that China is willing to play a constructive role in supporting these efforts.

    MIL OSI China News –