NewzIntel.com

Category: DJF

  • MIL-Evening Report: Ponsonby community up in arms over impending post office closure

    Asia Pacific Report

    The community is up in arms over another local post office in Aotearoa New Zealand about to be closed down, this time in the iconic and historic Auckland inner city suburb of Ponsonby.

    A local author and founder of Greenstone Pictures, John Harris, has led a pushback against plans to close the Ponsonby post office branch in Three Lamps next month with an undated open letter to the chief executive David Walsh.

    Saying he was “surprised and dismayed” to see the “closing soon but staying put” sign in the Ponsonby NZ Post shop, Harris pointed out that the small office gave “great service to dozens of businesses” in the area, and hundreds of residents.

    “It is misleading on your poster to claim that people will be able to obtain the same services at nearby post shops like that in Jervois Road,” Harris said.

    “Will they be able to pay their bills and car registration there? Collect mail and parcels? Buy courier bags and send mail and parcels?

    “And do you expect them to walk there?  It is not helpful to say this closure ‘might mean a few minutes extra drive’.

    This assumed that all clients were using a car, not elderly or young who were on foot.

    Parking in busy streets
    “And people are expected to try and find parking on other busy streets — Jervois Road, Karangahape Road, Wellesley Street.”

    Harris said: “The Ponsonby post shop is a vital part of the network that binds the community together.

    “To close it is like removing part of the community’s nervous system:  an ill-considered stab at the heart of a community which has always been vibrant, socially aware and productive.”

    The NZ Post website proclaims that “we provide customers with the solutions and products to help them communicate and do business.”

    However, said Harris, this planned closure for July 4 did not match those promises.

    Harris also pointed out that NZ Post made a $16 million operating profit for the last six months of 2024.

    The Ponsonby protest letter from a local community advocate to the NZ Post. Image: APR

    “Congratulations. I’m pleased you are keeping NZ Post viable. But it shows there is a bit of ‘wriggle room’ to keep the Ponsonby store open.”

    Digital services use
    In response to the call to reconsider the decision, a customer services officer replied on June 6 on behalf of chief executive Walsh, saying that the NZ Post Office needed to “ensure our physical locations are in the right places and operating efficiently” in an age where more people used digital services.

    “In some areas, including Ponsonby, we’ve had more than one store serving the same neighbourhood. That’s not a sustainable way for us to operate, so we’ve had to make some changes.”

    However, critics of the decision to close the Ponsonby store say the reasoning  was “not credible”, stressing that all claimed alternative postal stores are several kilometres away.

    A year after chief executive Walsh was appointed in 2017, it was announced that NZ Post would close almost 80 local post offices across the country and replace some of them with franchises.

    Harris, a children’s author with a strong association with the local community stretching back to the 1970s and a former editor of West End News in Freemans Bay, acknowledged that the Ponsonby  PO boxes lobby was being kept open, “but what about the ordinary rank-and-file residents and small business owners who value the other everyday services offered at the store?”

    He said he had written to local MP, Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick and the Ponsonby Business Association seeking their support.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Your guide to winter dining in Canberra

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    This local brewery has all the perfect winter comforts – hearty burgers, great beverages and a crackling fire.

    Capital Brewing Co. by Tourism Australia

    The Duxton, O’Connor

    This gastro pub located at O’Connor shops offers a roast every Sunday.

    For $39, enjoy pork belly, chicken and lamb with veggies and Yorkshire pudding, covered in gravy.

    This cosy pub at Ainslie shops offers the perfect winter special every Sunday from 12pm.

    For $25 enjoy a roast served with sides and a house beer, wine or soft drink.

    This great old English-style pub has it all. Great food, beers and ambience – with regular live music and a crackling fire.

    It’s the perfect spot to escape the cold weather.

    Indulge in speciality drinks at Highroad this Canberra winter.

    Warm up your choice of a pumpkin spice latte, orange and white chocolate latte or a chai cuddle cup.

    This Irish pub in the city centre is a great place to hide from the cold.

    Enjoy traditional pub food, live music and a crackling fire.

    King O’Malley’s by Visit Canberra.

    This Parisian-style café on Lake Burley Griffin is serving up speciality hot drinks this winter.

    After a lakeside walk, warm up with a mulled wine or cider beside the firepit.

    This modern restaurant offers contemporary cuisine and features a fireplace to set the perfect tone for a winter date night.

    Desserts we have our eye on this winter include the sticky date pudding and mulled wine poached pear crumble.

    This old rustic pub is the perfect place to cosy up this winter.

    Enjoy great comfort food like bangers and mash, paired with a mulled wine by the fireplace.

    Parlour changes its menu every season, so it’s a must visit this winter.

    Enjoy great wine and food by the restaurant fire.

    This modern pub at Manuka shops offers a roast every Sunday.

    For $30 enjoy a roast plate of beef with classic sides and gravy.

    Find this cosy bookstore café in Gold Creek.

    Sit by a crackling fire while you read and warm your belly with comfort food like sausages and mash or a curry.

    Check out one of Canberra’s oldest hospitality venues this winter.

    The cottage’s rustic character and warm fireplace makes it an inviting place for locals in the cooler months.

    Warm up at this lakeside gastro pub.

    Indulge in pub classics like sausages, mash and gravy, or share one of their cheeseboards by the inviting fireplace.

    Walt and Burley by Visit Canberra.

    Read more like this:

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Honors Iowa’s Servicemembers, Witnesses Disaster Recovery, Touts Small Business Innovation, and More

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) recently traveled from Pottawattamie County to Scott County to meet with servicemembers, small business owners, farmers, and law enforcement officers on her River to River Tour – part of her ongoing commitment to hear from Iowans in every corner of the state.
    Click HERE to download photos from Ernst’s visits.
    As the first female combat veteran elected to the Senate who served in the Iowa National Guard, it was especially meaningful for Ernst to honor Iowa National Guard soldiers as they deploy to serve our country in the Middle East. She gave remarks at the send-off ceremonies for both the 1st Battalion, 168th Infantry Regiment in her hometown of Red Oak and 224th Brigade Engineer Battalion in Davenport. Learn more about the ceremony in Red Oak from KSOM, KMALand, The Red Oak Express, and KMTV. WQAD, KLJB,and the Quad-City Times detailed the event in Davenport.

    To mark one year since devastating storms and tornados swept through southwest Iowa, Ernst visited Adair County where she toured an active Habitat for Humanity home construction site in Greenfield.Raccoon Valley Radio, KCCI, and WHO 13 joined the tour as she talked with the future homeowner about rebuilding and community recovery efforts.

    In Scott County, KWQC covered Ernst’s visit to Davenport Guns & Shooting Club where she met with the store’s owner to discuss the importance of protecting lawful gun dealers from Biden’s ATF with herFIREARM Act. Ernst closed out the visit with some target practice on the shop’s range.

    As Chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Ernst elevates the voices of Iowa small businesses and presented five outstanding entrepreneurs across the state with her Small Business of the Week award. The Wilton-Durant Advocate News and the Muscatine Journal both joined as she honored Lynn and Brenda Ochiltree, owners of The Candy Kitchen, a historic soda fountain in downtown Wilton.

    As reported by Journal-Eureka, Ernst stopped by Boomerang Corporation in Jones County to learn more about how their team plans, designs, and oversees construction projects across eastern Iowa.

    In Jackson County, Ernst was thrilled to present Air Force veteran Dr. Don Schwenker and his family with a Small Business of the Week award for all their hard work providing care for veterans and the Maquoketa community at Timber City Chiropractic. The Maquoketa Sentinel-Press featured the visit. Daily Nonpareiland KMTV highlighted Ernst’s work to cut red tape and help rural entrepreneurs thrive during her visit to PowerTech in Council Bluffs.

    Iowa’s leadership in innovation for businesses both large and small was top of mind as Ernst gave remarks at an event hosted by Google in Cedar Rapids.

    Ernst also spotlighted entrepreneurship and the needs of small business owners at her roundtable in Iowa City. As featured on KGAN, she gathered folks with growing small businesses and University of Iowa leadership to discuss her INNOVATE Act followed by a tour of a University of Iowa research laboratory.

    Carroll Broadcasting and the Carroll Times Herald both featured Ernst’s roundtable with Iowa pork producers and cattlemen about her work to support Iowa farmers and producers, which includes fighting for a Farm Bill, pushing back against California’s Prop 12 overreach, and combatting foreign animal disease. Ernst also held a second roundtable in Dallas County to hear about the experiences and concerns of central Iowa law enforcement officers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Vande Bharat train between Katra and Srinagar begins today; slashes travel time to just three hours

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a major boost to connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, regular services of the Vande Bharat Express between Srinagar and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra commence on Saturday.

    The Northern Railway has confirmed that the semi-high-speed trains will operate six days a week, significantly reducing travel time between the Kashmir Valley and the prominent pilgrimage hub in Katra.

    This development marks a transformative step in the region’s transport infrastructure.

    The new Vande Bharat service will cut travel time between Srinagar and Katra to just three hours—less than half of the current six to seven hours required by road.

    Two pairs of Vande Bharat Express trains—Train Nos. 26404/26403 and 26401/26402—will run on the newly inaugurated Srinagar–Katra–Srinagar route, with scheduled halts at Banihal.

    These trains are specially designed to function in extreme winter conditions and are equipped with advanced heating systems, thermally insulated lavatories, heated windshields, and defrosting technology for improved driver visibility.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday flagged off the inaugural run of these trains, following the successful completion of the 272-kilometer Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link project—a long-awaited engineering feat that includes the iconic Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway arch bridge.

    Until now, train services in the region were limited to the Banihal–Baramulla section in the Kashmir Valley and the Jammu–Udhampur–Katra section in the Jammu region.

    The extension of Vande Bharat services will not only provide a faster and more reliable mode of transportation for residents and tourists but is also expected to facilitate easier access for pilgrims visiting the revered Vaishno Devi shrine.

    With seamless all-weather operations and premium onboard amenities, the Vande Bharat Express promises to enhance the travel experience and strengthen regional connectivity, linking North India more closely with the Valley.

    IANS

  • MIL-OSI USA: Office of the Governor — News Release — Gov. Green Releases Intent-to-Veto List

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    Office of the Governor — News Release — Gov. Green Releases Intent-to-Veto List

    Posted on Jun 6, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom, Office of the Governor Press Releases

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI 
    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI 
     
    JOSH GREEN, M.D. 
    GOVERNOR
    KE KIAʻĀINA 
     

    GOVERNOR GREEN RELEASES INTENT-TO-VETO LIST 

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    June 6, 2025

    HONOLULU – Governor Josh Green, M.D., today informed legislative leaders and stakeholders of his intent to veto 19 bills passed during the 2025 regular session of the Hawai‘i State Legislature.

    Governor Green is not required to veto every bill indicated on the Intent-to-Veto list, but cannot veto a bill that is not included. The release of this list provides additional time to continue ongoing discussions with key stakeholders concerning implementation and impact. Due to the record-setting number of bills enrolled to the governor this legislative session, potential changes to the state’s federal funding and reduced revenue projections from the Council on Revenues, additional time to analyze bills will ensure each bill is given the nuanced, thoughtful consideration it deserves. Governor Green has until July 9 to issue final vetoes. All other bills will become law by July 9.

    “Let me be clear: of the 320 bills passed by the Legislature this session, 19 are on our Intent-to-Veto list,” said Governor Green. “Our team has completed a review of every measure and the overwhelming majority of legislation will become law. Each bill on today’s list is based on thorough legal and fiscal analysis, and as always, was guided by what will best serve the people of Hawai‘i, protect our resources and strengthen our future.”

    To date, Governor Green has signed 200 bills into law benefiting the people and ‘āina of Hawai‘i, with core themes including environmental stewardship, educational access and success, as well as public safety. These represent key focus areas so far; additional bills awaiting signature will build upon this foundation to address state priorities. The remaining 101 bills are on track to become law by July 9.

    Over 300 bills were reviewed by state departments and agencies, the Attorney General and the Governor in the last month. The Governor has until July 9 to issue final vetoes from today’s list.

    The following bills are being considered for vetoes, line-item vetoes, or reductions.

    Fiscal Bills:

    HB126: RELATING TO PROPERTY FORFEITURE

    Bill Description: Increases transparency and accountability surrounding property forfeiture. Clarifies which property is subject to forfeiture. Amends the authorized disposition of forfeited property and the proceeds thereof. Requires the Attorney General to adopt rules necessary to carry out the purpose of the Hawaiʻi Omnibus Criminal Forfeiture Act. Repeals language that requires the Hawaiʻi Omnibus Criminal Forfeiture Act to be construed liberally.

    Veto Rationale: Asset forfeiture serves as a powerful deterrent against and punishment for criminal activity. The one-year deadline to return seized property for which the owner has not been charged with a covered offense, significantly weakens the efficacy of this dual deterrent and punishment. Many covered offenses, including felonies, often involve complex investigations that extend beyond a year, rendering this bill’s one-year deadline for law enforcement to file charges unrealistic. Seized property can serve as critical evidence in investigations, and its return before an investigation’s completion would severely hamper the investigation as well as the administration of justice at large.

    HB300: RELATING TO THE STATE BUDGET

    Bill Description: Appropriates funds for the operating and capital improvement budget of the Executive Branch for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027.

    Veto Rationale: Potential shifts in federal funding, coupled with recent projections from the Hawaiʻi Council on Revenues, require the state to reevaluate its budget to ensure essential services and priorities remain supported. Specific line-item reductions based on program feasibility, stability, and sustainability will help the state enter the fiscal year with a balanced budget and sound financial plan.

    HB302: RELATING TO CANNABIS
    Bill Description: Part I: Authorizes DOH to inspect qualifying patient medical records held by the physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or hospice provider who issued a written certification for the qualifying patient. Amends and adds definitions for purposes of the medical use of cannabis law. Clarifies the conditions of use for the medical use of cannabis. For purposes of issuing written certifications, authorizes the establishment of a provider-patient relationship via telehealth and limits the maximum amount of fees that can be assessed by providers. Authorizes the sale of hemp products and accessories for the medical use of cannabis at retail dispensing locations, except in waiting rooms. Clarifies transportation requirements for certain inter-dispensary sales of cannabis and manufactured cannabis products. Part II: Establishes criminal penalties for the unlicensed operation of a medical cannabis dispensary. Part III: Authorizes expenditures from the Medical Cannabis Registry and Regulation Special Fund to fund programs for the mitigation and abatement of nuisances related to illegal cannabis and hemp products and medical cannabis dispensaries and appropriates funds from the Special Fund to the AG’s Drug Nuisance Abatement Unit for these purposes, including establishing positions. Part IV: Beginning 1/1/2028, prohibits the cultivation of cannabis without a cannabis cultivator license issued by DOH.

    Veto Rationale: This administration remains committed to Hawai‘i’s existing medical cannabis program and supports efforts to expand access to medical cannabis for any medical condition. Although this bill’s authorization of medical cannabis certifications via telehealth expands access to medical cannabis, provisions authorizing the inspection of patients’ medical records without warrant constitute a grave violation of privacy. Given that the federal government classifies cannabis as a Schedule I substance, patients’ reasonable fears of repercussions based upon information gained from inspection of their personal medical records may deter patients from participating in the medical cannabis program.

    HB496: RELATING TO MĀMAKI TEA

    Bill Description: Prohibits the use of certain words and misleading Hawaiian imagery, place names, and motifs on the label of a consumer package that contains or includes tea or dried leaves from the plant Pipturus albidus, unless 100% of the tea or dried leaves were cultivated, harvested, and dried in the state. Appropriates funds for a Measurement Standards Inspector position.

    Veto Rationale: While the intent of this measure is to ensure consumer protection and reliable Made in Hawai‘i labeling, the bill imposes overly strict labeling requirements that could harm small businesses and māmaki producers who responsibly blend leaves from multiple sources. Prohibiting the labeling of products composed of less than 100% māmaki tea as “māmaki” ignores the economic contributions of and impacts to producers who mix or process māmaki with other herbs, undermining producers who support local māmaki farmers while meeting broader demand.

    HB796: RELATING TO TAX CREDITS

    Bill Description: Requires that income tax credits existing on 12/31/2025 or established or renewed after 12/31/2025 include a five-year sunset or an annual one-third reduction, beginning with the sixth year of the credit.

    Veto Rationale: This bill would have a significant long-term impact on income tax credits across a variety of industries, including film and television, research, and renewable energy. These tax credits are critical to supporting economic development and diversification, particularly within growing and emerging sectors. Categorically sunsetting income tax credits will not only disincentivize future investors from doing business in Hawai‘i, but will destabilize existing businesses that currently rely upon these tax credits.

    HB1369: RELATING TO TAXATION 

    Bill Description: Amends and repeals certain exemptions under the general excise tax and use tax laws.

    Veto Rationale: The amendments to the general excise tax and use tax contained in this bill would impact sugarcane producers, commercial fishing vessels and securities exchanges. Removing the specific tax exemptions afforded to these entities would provide little financial benefit to the state while harming, in particular, sugarcane producers.

    SB583: RELATING TO NAMING RIGHTS

    Bill Description: Allows the naming rights of the Stadium Facility and Convention Center Facility to be leased to any public or private entity. Requires any revenues derived from advertising or marketing in or on the Stadium Facility or Convention Center Facility to be deposited into the appropriate special fund of the facility. Authorizes the display of the name of any entity that leased the naming rights to a stadium operated by the Stadium Authority on the exterior of the stadium.

    Veto Rationale: Pursuant to section 14, article III, of the Hawai‘i State Constitution, each bill may only contain one subject, which must pertain to the bill’s title. The exemption of concessions in the stadium facility and Convention Center from typical concession procurement procedures may violate section 14, article III, of the Hawai‘i State Constitution since the exemption appears to fall outside the titular scope of the bill, naming rights.

    SB589: RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY

    Bill Description: Requires the Public Utilities Commission to establish an installation goal for customer-sited distributed energy resources in the state. Requires the Public Utilities Commission to establish tariffs to achieve the installation goal and for grid services programs, microgrids and community-based renewable energy. Ensures that certain levels of compensation are provided for solar and energy storage exports from customer-sited distributed energy resources as part of grid service programs and requires the Public Utilities Commission to establish grid service compensation values. Clarifies when a person who constructs, maintains, or operates a new microgrid is not considered a public utility. Authorizes wheeling of renewable energy and requires the Public Utilities Commission to establish policies and procedures to implement wheeling and microgrid service tariffs.

    Veto Rationale: Maintaining Hawai‘i’s leadership in clean energy through established goals and initiatives remains a priority. The Public Utilities Commission has already opened or plans to open proceedings relating to microgrid services tariffs and customer-sited distributed energy resources and grid services. The mandates contained in this bill therefore risk duplication and delay of already existing efforts.

    Non-Fiscal Bills: 

    HB235: RELATING TO TRAFFIC SAFETY

    Bill Description: Requires the Department of Transportation, after the City and County of Honolulu educates the public and adjusts any systems, to expand the use of photo red light imaging detector systems and automated speed enforcement systems to locations on the North Shore of O‘ahu.

    Veto Rationale: The Department of Transportation has developed specific criteria for the selection of communities within which to implement traffic safety systems. This criteria incorporates data-driven crash, citation and traffic volume metrics, which ensure communities are chosen based on need and potential for greatest impact. Ignoring this criteria in favor of legislatively mandated location selection threatens the integrity of the photo red light imaging detector system and automated speed enforcement system programs.

    HB800: RELATING TO GOVERNMENT

    Bill Description: Provides for the transfer of certain parcels in the Liliha Civic Center area and Iwilei Fire Station area from various state agencies to the City and County of Honolulu. Provides for the transfer of the parcel of land upon which Ali‘i Tower is sited from the City and County of Honolulu to the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Exempts the lands transferred to the Department of Land and Natural Resources from the definition of public lands for purposes of Chapter 171, HRS.

    Veto Rationale: The land transfers provided in the bill would negatively impact the City and County of Honolulu, which relies upon Ali‘i Tower’s land lease revenues and office spaces. Additionally, the state would face indeterminate additional costs, as Ali‘i Tower’s age likely necessitates capital improvements and ongoing maintenance. Although the intent of this bill is to reduce the state’s reliance on private commercial office space, no analysis exists identifying the amount of office space the acquisition of Aliʻi Tower would provide the state.

    HB958: RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION

    Bill Description: Establishes safe riding behaviors for electric bicycles. Prohibits the operation of high-speed electric devices in certain locations. Establishes labeling and signage requirements for electric bicycles. Prohibits the operation of a moped or electric motorcycle in certain locations. Amends the definition of “bicycle” for purposes of county vehicular taxes. Defines “electric bicycle” in place of “low-speed electric bicycle.” Defines “electric micro-mobility device” and requires the same regulations as electric foot scooters to apply to electric micro-mobility devices. Prohibits a person under the age of 16 from operating a class 3 electric bicycle. Authorizes a person under the age of 14 to operate class 2 electric bicycles under supervision. Prohibits a person from riding a class 3 electric bicycle on a sidewalk. Authorizes a person to ride a class 1 or class 2 electric bicycle on a sidewalk under certain circumstances. Prohibits a person from operating a bicycle or electric foot scooter under the age of 18 without a helmet. Repeals the requirement that moped drivers use bicycle lanes and substitutes the term “motor-driven cycle” with the term “motor scooter.”

    Veto Rationale: While mopeds and motorcycles are exempt from the prohibition established within this bill, on “high-speed electric devices” driving on public roadways, electric cars are not exempt. Such a prohibition would likely violate the Commerce Clause and Equal Protection Clause of the United States Constitution and conflict with the administration’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

    HB1296: RELATING TO THE MAJOR DISASTER FUND

    Bill Description: Establishes timely notice and reporting requirements to the Legislature by the Governor regarding the transfer of appropriations to the Major Disaster Fund. Effective 7/1/2025. Sunsets 7/1/2026.

    Veto Rationale: The administration is committed to the transparent, efficient management of state funds. During times of emergency, flexibility and the quick release of funds is necessary to respond to rapidly changing situations. This bill disrupts the delicate balance between reporting requirements facilitating government transparency and fiscal flexibility undergirding efficient response and recovery efforts. Placing additional administrative oversight over funds expended for emergencies jeopardizes public safety.

    SB15: RELATING TO HISTORIC PRESERVATION 

    Bill Description: Amends the definition of “historic property” to require that the property is over 50 years old and meets the criteria for inclusion in the Hawaiʻi Register of Historic Places. Excludes proposed projects on existing residential property and proposed projects that are in nominally sensitive areas from the State’s Historic Preservation Program review, under certain circumstances.

    Veto Rationale: Exempting proposed projects on any existing residential property from historic preservation review fails to consider properties that have never undergone such a review and may contain historically significant artifacts or iwi kūpuna. This categorical exclusion increases the risk for desecration of iwi kūpuna and historical resources. Although Governor Green supports amending the historic preservation review process to facilitate housing production, a more nuanced approach to protecting iwi kūpuna is needed, such as that advanced in SB 1263.

    SB31: RELATING TO PROPERTY

    Bill Description: Authorizes a person who discovers a recorded discriminatory restrictive covenant to take certain actions, without liability, to invalidate the covenant. Defines discriminatory restrictive covenant.

    Veto Rationale: By enabling any person, including those without any interest in the specified real property, to record a statement that a real property’s title includes a discriminatory restrictive covenant, this bill provides a statutorily authorized mechanism for the circulation of disinformation. This disinformation has the potential to negatively affect the marketability of a property. Because the person who recorded the statement claiming a discriminatory restrictive covenant exists is waived of any liability, no recourse is available to those who suffer financial loss due to inaccurate claims concerning their property’s title.

    SB38: RELATING TO HOUSING

    Bill Description: Requires the Hawaiʻi Housing Finance and Development Corporation to provide counties with an opportunity to comment on certain housing development projects. Prohibits the legislative body of a county from imposing stricter conditions than the Hawaiʻi Housing Finance and Development Corporation, stricter area median income requirements, or a reduction in fee waivers to housing development proposals that would increase the cost of the project.

    Veto Rationale: County councils have expressed concerns that this bill hampers their ability to work with developers to modify housing projects to reflect the specific needs of their communities. While the administration supports measures intended to facilitate the production of affordable housing, further dialogue with the counties on this measure’s implementation is required.

    SB66: RELATING TO HOUSING

    Bill Description: Establishes procedures and requirements for single-family and multifamily housing project applicants to apply for an expedited permit, including requirements for completeness of expedited permit applications, duties of licensed professionals and the counties during construction, and applications for owner-builder exemptions. Takes effect 7/1/2026. Sunsets 6/30/2031.

    Veto Rationale: By allowing any qualified professional to determine a project’s impact on historical resources, this bill permits a project proponent to evaluate and determine the impact of its own projects on historical resources. This is a conflict of interest that allows for self-serving determinations, undermines the authority and purpose of regulatory agencies’ independent evaluations, and increases risk to iwi kūpuna.

    SB104: RELATING TO CORRECTIONS

    Bill Description: Beginning 7/1/2026, restricts the use of restrictive housing in state-operated and state-contracted correctional facilities, with certain specified exceptions. Establishes a restrictive housing legislative working group to develop and recommend more comprehensive laws, policies and procedures regarding restrictive housing for members of vulnerable populations by 1/8/2027. Requires the Hawaiʻi Correctional System Oversight Commission to review restrictive housing placements on an annual basis. Authorizes the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, by 12/1/2027, to implement policies and procedures recommended by the restrictive housing working group related to committed persons. Requires interim and final reports to the Legislature and Hawaiʻi Correctional System Oversight Commission.

    Veto Rationale: The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has policies in place governing the use of restrictive housing. These policies and procedures comply with National Institute of Corrections and American Correctional Association standards. Rather than improve the health and safety of those in the department’s care, the implementation of certain requirements proposed in this bill will jeopardize the safety, security and good governance of the department’s facility, negatively impacting inmates. In lieu of this measure and to address stakeholders’ concerns, the department is working with the Hawaiʻi Correctional Systems Oversight Commission to amend its policies and procedures.

    SB447: RELATING TO A DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH PILOT PROGRAM

    Bill Description: Establishes a Hiring Pilot Program within the Department of Health, which includes an amended hiring procedure for delegated position classifications, certain flexibilities regarding minimum qualifications for positions having a salary range at or below SR-10, the ability to directly hire certain individuals into a civil service position if certain conditions are met, and the authority to make certain temporary appointments at the merited civil service pay scale without step limitation. Applies to recruitments initiated before 7/1/2028. Requires annual reports to the Legislature. Sunsets 7/1/2028.

    Veto Rationale: The governor strongly supports efforts to streamline the state’s hiring process to address our workforce vacancies, especially those in our state’s public health sector. However, this bill conflicts with state civil service law, undermining the state’s merit-based civil service system. Disparities in hiring, classification and compensation throughout the state are expected to occur should this bill become law.

    SB1102: RELATING TO THE AIRCRAFT RESCUE FIRE FIGHTING UNIT

    Bill Description: Specifies the appointment processes and terms for the Fire Chief of the Hawaiʻi State Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting Unit of the Airports Division of the Department of Transportation.

    Veto Rationale: The appointment process proposed in the bill is inconsistent with the selection process for other department leadership positions. Further, due to the need to obtain legislative approval for the appointment of the Fire Chief, following the appointment process contained in this bill may delay the appointment of this critical leadership position, impacting airport operations, safety and readiness.

    # # #

    Media Contacts:  
    Erika Engle
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Governor, State of Hawai‘i
    Office: 808-586-0120
    Email: [email protected] 

    Makana McClellan
    Director of Communications
    Office of the Governor, State of Hawaiʻi
    Cell: 808-265-0083
    Email: [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Gavin Newsom on recent chaotic and reckless immigration raids

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jun 6, 2025

    LOS ANGELES – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued the following statement in response to widespread immigration raids by federal agents:

    Continued chaotic federal sweeps, across California, to meet an arbitrary arrest quota are as reckless as they are cruel. 

    Donald Trump’s chaos is eroding trust, tearing families apart, and undermining the workers and industries that power America’s economy.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

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  • PM Modi greets people on occasion of Eid ul-Adha

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted people on the occasion of Eid ul-Adha today, calling for the festival to “inspire harmony and strengthen the fabric of peace in our society.”

    “Best wishes on Eid ul-Adha. May this occasion inspire harmony and strengthen the fabric of peace in our society. Wishing everyone good health and prosperity,” the PM said in his post on X.

    Union Minister Kiren Rijiju also extended his wishes on the occasion. Posting his greetings in Urdu, he said, “Happy Eid al-Adha! Heartfelt congratulations to all Muslim brothers and sisters on this auspicious occasion.”

    Earlier today, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also wished people, urging them to unite and foster a stronger bond to work towards a peaceful, harmonious, and just society.

    “Eid al-Adha celebrates the noble values of selfless sacrifice, trust, and forgiveness. As we celebrate this joyous occasion, may we all unite to foster stronger fraternity and work towards a peaceful, harmonious, and just society. Eid Mubarak!” his post read.

    As people across the country celebrated Eid, dargahs and mosques were filled with devotees offering prayers early in the morning. In Mumbai, people gathered at Jama Masjid Mahim Dargah, while in Delhi, many turned to the historic Jama Masjid at dawn to offer their prayers.

    The air echoed with chants of “Eid Mubarak” as families—young and old—embraced and celebrated the spirit of sacrifice and compassion that the festival symbolises.

    Eid al-Adha, also known as Id-ul-Adha in Arabic and Bakr-Id in the Indian subcontinent due to the tradition of sacrificing a goat or bakri, is celebrated across India with great fervour and joy.

    (ANI)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Wildfire smoke causes poor air quality in major Canadian cities

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    OTTAWA, June 6 (Xinhua) — Smoke from wildfires raging in northern Ontario and the Prairies of Canada caused poor air quality and reduced visibility in major Canadian cities including Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal on Friday.

    Environment Canada issued a special air quality statement Friday in affected areas, warning that people most vulnerable to health impacts from air pollution should avoid strenuous outdoor work and seek medical attention if symptoms develop.

    Environment Canada’s David Phillips told CTV News that air quality is deteriorating as wildfires spread across the country.

    “We’ve certainly seen this week in Ontario that a lot of the smoke from the fires is going south,” he said.

    “Only a few people see the flames, but millions smell the smoke,” added D. Phillips.

    Toronto’s air quality was ranked the second worst in the world on Friday afternoon, data showed. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Shanghai Stock Exchange Urges Listed Companies to Increase Dividend Payouts

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 7 (Xinhua) — The Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE) has pledged to boost shareholder returns by encouraging listed companies to increase dividend payouts and continuously enhance their investment value.

    In a statement on Friday, the SSE said the exchange would help listed companies increase the scale and frequency of dividend payments and make better use of tools such as share buybacks, mergers and acquisitions, and investor sourcing to increase the investment value of companies.

    The statement was released after a seminar on Thursday attended by representatives from a number of Shanghai-listed companies, insurance companies and fund management institutions.

    There is already a group of high-yield companies on the Shanghai market. For example, companies listed on the main board reported an average dividend payout ratio of 39 percent in 2024, with a dividend yield of 3.6 percent.

    The structure and mechanism of China’s capital market are improving, creating a stronger foundation for high-quality growth, the SSE said.

    Underscoring the importance of confidence in Chinese assets, the SSE said it would enrich its portfolio of dividend-linked index products and help create a virtuous cycle of long-term capital, “patient capital” and high-quality equity assets. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Indian delegation meets US officials, discusses Pahalgam terror attack, Operation Sindoor

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An all-party parliamentary delegation from India, led by senior Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, met with key American lawmakers and officials to brief them on the recent Pahalgam terror attack and India’s response through Operation Sindoor.

    During the visit, the delegation held a significant meeting with US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau. The Indian Embassy in Washington shared an update on social media platform X, stating that the All-Party Parliamentary Delegation led by Dr. Shashi Tharoor had a warm and candid conversation with US Deputy Secretary of State. The Indian delegation briefed him on the atrocities of the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor.

    The delegation also met Senator Chris Van Hollen, a member of the influential US Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In that meeting, the Indian lawmakers discussed the cross-border nature of the Pahalgam attack and reiterated India’s firm stance against terrorism.

    The Indian Parliamentary Delegation led by Dr. Shashi Tharoor had a productive meeting with Senator Chris Van Hollen, a member of the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The delegation briefed him on the heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam, discussed India’s subsequent Operation Sindoor, and reiterated India’s firm resolve to counter cross-border terrorism in all its forms. The Senator expressed sympathy for the victims of repeated terror attacks in India, affirmed that the US stands with India in the fight against terrorism, and expressed support for India’s right to defend itself, the embassy posted on X.

    Earlier, the Indian delegation also engaged in candid conversations with members of the US Congress, senior government officials, and representatives from American think tanks and media at a reception hosted by India’s Ambassador to the United States.

    The visit is part of an ongoing diplomatic effort to build bipartisan support in Washington for stronger counter-terrorism cooperation and to deepen strategic ties between India and the US in the face of growing regional security threats.

    On Thursday, the delegation had an “excellent meeting” with United States Vice President J.D. Vance in Washington, during which they briefed him on Operation Sindoor, the terrorism challenges India faces, and broader regional security issues.

    The All-Party Parliamentary Delegation led by Dr. Shashi Tharoor called on Vice President J.D. Vance. The conversation focused on strengthening the India-US partnership, including cooperation in the counter-terrorism domain, the Indian Embassy posted on X

    IANS

  • Bakrid 2025: Muslims across India celebrate Eid al-Adha with prayers, sacrifice

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Muslims across India are celebrating Bakrid, also known as Eid al-Adha, on Saturday with religious fervour and devotion. 

    The day began with special congregational prayers held at mosques and Eidgahs in cities and towns nationwide, as people gathered in large numbers to mark the sacred festival.

    Eid al-Adha, or the “Festival of Sacrifice,” honours the unwavering faith and obedience of Prophet Abraham, who was willing to sacrifice his son as an act of submission to God.

    In commemoration of this act of devotion, Muslims around the world perform ‘qurbani’, the ritual sacrifice of animals such as goats, sheep, or buffalo, and distribute the meat among family, friends, and those in need.

    In India, the festival is being observed with great enthusiasm. In Delhi and Noida, large numbers of devotees offered Bakrid prayers early in the morning at major mosques. According to announcements from local mosque committees, Namaz timings varied slightly, in Noida, prayers were held around 7:00 a.m., while in Greater Noida, the timings ranged from 6:45 a.m. to 8:15 a.m. depending on the mosque.

    In Kalyan, Thane district of Maharashtra, police presence was heightened near the historic Durgadi Fort due to parallel events planned by the Thackeray and Shinde factions, both claiming to continue the legacy of Dharmaveer Anand Dighe’s “Ghantanaad” movement, a 39-year-old tradition.

    In other parts of India, the celebrations continued peacefully.

    In Khurja, Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, large crowds assembled at the Eidgah for morning prayers.

    In Bhagalpur (Bihar), thousands gathered at Tatarpur Masjid, CTS Ground, and Shahjangi Maidan to offer prayers. Similarly, in Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh), Eidgah Mosque saw significant attendance during the morning Eid al-Adha Namaz.

    Bakrid celebrations are expected to continue throughout the day, with families coming together for festive meals, acts of charity, and community bonding.

    Authorities across major cities have deployed additional security to ensure peaceful observances.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CJ’s address at Ceremony for the Admission of the New Senior Counsel (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Judiciary:

    The following is the full text of an address by Chief Justice Andrew Cheung, Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal, at the Ceremony for the Admission of the New Senior Counsel today (June 7): 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: UGC Secretary-General visits US and UK

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    UGC Secretary-General visits US and UK 
         The Secretary-General of the University Grants Committee (UGC), Professor James Tang, led a delegation to visit the United States and the United Kingdom from May 25 (San Diego time) to June 6 (Birmingham time) as part of the effort to promote Hong Kong’s development into an international hub for post-secondary education.
     
         Together with the delegation comprising all eight UGC-funded universities under the aegis of the Heads of Universities Committee’s Standing Committee on Internationalisation (HUCOMSCI), Professor Tang attended the NAFSA Annual Conference and Expo 2025 held in San Diego, the United States, where he spoke at a dedicated session on the strengths of Hong Kong’s higher education sector and the opportunities presented to students from around the world. With funding support from the UGC, the HUCOMSCI also set up a Hong Kong Pavilion to showcase Hong Kong’s internationalised and diversified higher education environment that welcomes academics and students from around the world to realise their aspirations.
     
         “Over the years, with the substantial investment by the Government in higher education, the eight UGC-funded universities have continued to grow, with five ranked among the world’s top 100, six within Asia’s top 50, and four as the top most international universities in the world. Some 70 per cent of our research outputs are assessed as internationally excellent, while the most recent round of quality audits also reaffirms the quality of educational experience that our universities offer to students. Hong Kong is indeed the ideal destination for students to pursue their further studies and achieve greater success,” said Professor Tang at the session at the NAFSA Conference and Expo.
     
         For the first time, the UGC also supported the Hong Kong Teaching Excellence Alliance and the HUCOMSCI to share with the international audience on how the UGC-funded universities have grasped the immense potential brought by artificial intelligence in enhancing students’ learning experiences. This has once again demonstrated Hong Kong’s leadership in quality education through investment and innovation.
     
         Professor Tang then attended the International Higher Education Forum 2025 held on June 4 (Birmingham time) in Birmingham, the United Kingdom, to share the factors underpinning Hong Kong’s success as an international hub for post-secondary education. He stressed that academic freedom and institutional autonomy have been the cornerstones of Hong Kong’s success, while highlighting the diversified composition of Hong Kong’s academic staff. Hong Kong universities attract a strong pool of distinguished scholars with a rich repertoire of international experience, and indeed some 70 per cent of them come from outside Hong Kong.
     
         In the 2024 Policy Address, the Government announced its support for establishing the “Study in Hong Kong” brand in order to attract more meritorious students to pursue their studies in Hong Kong. Through participation in international conferences and exhibitions, Hong Kong has continued to expand its network for student mobility and research collaboration. As of November 2024, the eight UGC-funded universities have jointly signed 2 660 student exchange agreements with universities from around the world, and engaged in over 6 800 active research collaborations with other institutions. At present, around one out of four students in UGC-funded universities are from outside Hong Kong. The Government will continue to support universities to strive for further internationalisation, thereby reinforcing their global reputation and scaling new heights.
     
         During the visit, Professor Tang also met with senior management and prominent scholars from top-tier higher education institutions in the United States and the United Kingdom to exchange views on the latest developments in higher education. He also highlighted that Hong Kong’s outstanding universities have been a welcoming academic home for top scholars and talented students from around the world. As an international hub for higher education, Hong Kong’s doors are always open to all who want to realise their academic pursuits and explore the exciting opportunities offered by one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
    Issued at HKT 11:56

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, SH1, Desert Road

    Source: New Zealand Police

    One person has died following a crash on the Desert Road this afternoon.

    Police were called to a two-vehicle crash on State Highway One at around 1.10pm.

    Sadly, one person was located deceased at the scene.

    The road remains closed while the Serious Crash Unit conducts a scene examination.

    Motorists are advised to follow diversions and expect delays.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Energy Secretary Wright, EPA Administrator Zeldin, and Interior Secretary Burgum Visit Alaska to Advance Unleashing American Energy

    Source: US Department of Energy

    In Case You Missed It— U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright traveled to Alaska earlier this week, where he joined U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin to advance President Trump’s bold agenda to unleash Alaska’s extraordinary resource potential. In Anchorage and on the North Slope, Secretary Wright met with state, local and tribal leaders as well as Alaskan energy workers, held bilateral meetings with foreign energy ministers to advance American energy projects like Alaska LNG, and participated in a keynote fireside chat at the Alaska Sustainable Energy Conference.

    “I was proud to join my colleagues, Doug Burgum and Lee Zeldin, in Alaska to help fulfill President Trump’s mission of unleashing Alaska to create a safe, prosperous, and opportunity-filled future,” said Secretary Wright. “Alaska has always been a big bold place, a big bold idea, full of big bold people. Unfortunately, the last administration especially and many before them sought to shut down Alaska in the name of climate nonsense. Those days are over. The Trump Administration is fully committed to restoring the rights and liberties of Alaskans, because when Alaska is unleashed, the entire country and world benefits.”

    Click here to watch a highlight video of the trip and here to download and view photos from the visit.

    Roundtable in Anchorage

    On Sunday, Secretaries Wright and Burgum and Administrator Zeldin joined Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy and Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) for a roundtable discussion in Anchorage with leaders from across Alaska’s resource development industry.

    Town hall in Utqiagvik (Barrow), Alaska

    The delegation then traveled to the capital of Alaska’s North Slope Borough, Utqiagvik, Alaska, for a town hall with the predominantly Alaska-Native community. The cabinet members heard from a variety of community leaders and residents from villages across the North Slope who described how President Trump’s agenda has positively impacted their future.

    “The people of Kaktovik have been prisoners in our own ancestral homelands because the refuge was placed on top of us, restricting not just oil and gas development, but our movements. . . I’m so proud of our President because he made sure that our ancestral homelands weren’t going to be stolen… if the other guy would have won, there’s no doubt in my mind that our homeland would have been stolen and there’s nothing we could have done about it. But on day one, Trump had the heart and the wherewithal to be able to right this wrong and I’m extremely grateful for that. . . In the words of our commander in chief, President, Donald J. Trump, drill baby drill.” —Charles Lampe, resident of Kaktovik, Alaska, the only village in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR)

    Tour of Trans-Alaska Pipeline System and meetings with industry leaders and international energy ministers in Prudhoe Bay

    On Monday, the delegation visited Prudhoe Bay. They began at Pump Station 1 of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System (TAPS) they met with energy workers and delivered remarks. Upon arrival, Secretary Wright and his colleagues greeted international dignitaries from South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, the Philippines, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) who joined for the day’s events.

    “Today, oil is the largest source of energy on the planet and the fastest source of energy on the planet is natural gas. You have the big two right here: let’s double oil production, build the big, beautiful twin pipeline, and we will help energize the world, strengthen our country and strengthen our families.” –Secretary Wright

    The delegation also held a roundtable discussion with foreign energy representatives and U.S. industry executives, focused on international investment, LNG demand, and energy security partnerships. They also toured the Hilcorp Central Gas Facility and visited the Prudhoe Bay Discovery Well—highlighting Alaska’s legacy and future as a cornerstone of American energy production.

    Alaska Sustainable Energy Conference and bilateral energy meetings

    At the 2025 Alaska Sustainable Energy Conference, Secretaries Wright and Burgum and Administrator Zeldin joined Governor Dunleavy for a keynote discussion on the Administration’s progress and future plans for expanding resource development in Alaska.

    “The main thing we’re looking to get is people that want to buy Alaskan natural gas, and I think we’ve seen tremendous interest in that.” –Secretary Wright at the Alaska Sustainable Energy Conference

    Secretary Wright also held bilateral meetings with the energy ministers from the Philippines and Taiwan.

    Advancing President Trump’s ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’

    Throughout the visit, Secretary Wright and the delegation also discussed the enormous potential of President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill, which includes provisions to mandate lease sales in the Cook Inlet and ANWR with an increased cost-share for Alaska, initiate a de-risking program for LNG projects, enact energy permitting reforms, and deliver higher wages and lower energy costs for American families.

    Making headlines across the country

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 2025 college entrance exam kicks off nationwide

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

    Students walk into a national college entrance examination site in Beijing, capital of China, June 7, 2025.

    This year’s national college entrance exam, also known as the gaokao, kicked off Saturday nationwide. A total of 13.35 million Chinese students are set to sit this year’s exam. (Xinhua/Gao Jie)

    1  2  >  

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China to boost water use efficiency in 2024

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 7 (Xinhua) — China’s water use efficiency will continue to improve in 2024, according to a water resources bulletin released annually by the Ministry of Water Resources.

    Last year, China’s water consumption per 10,000 yuan (US$1,391.5) of GDP and per 10,000 yuan of industrial added value fell by 4.4 percent and 5.3 percent, respectively, the bulletin said.

    In 2024, both the amount of precipitation and the volume of water resources were significantly higher than the long-term average: the country’s average annual precipitation was 717.7 millimeters, 11.4 percent higher than the long-term average, and the total volume of water resources was 3.11 trillion cubic meters, 12.7 percent higher than the multi-year average.

    The bulletin also notes that in 2024, the volume of water supply from non-traditional water sources continued to increase, while the structure of water resources was constantly optimized.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China to Release Over 60 Domestic and International Films in Summer 2025

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 7 (Xinhua) — The film slate for the 2025 summer movie season was announced on Friday, with more than 60 Chinese and international films scheduled to be released to entertain audiences.

    The State Film Administration of China unveiled the list at a special event attended by cast and crews of several upcoming films, where they promoted their projects and shared key points with the public.

    This year’s summer lineup of domestic films covers a wide range of genres, including historical drama, thriller, action, comedy and animation, satisfying the increasingly diverse tastes of moviegoers.

    Among the Chinese films on display was “Dongji Island,” which tells the story of fishermen involved in a dramatic international maritime rescue operation.

    Another film, Lychee Road, follows the journey of an official during the Tang Dynasty (618-907) who was tasked with delivering fresh lychees, a mission that became an epic adventure.

    In the animation category, films like Nobody promise exciting content for young audiences during the holidays.

    The lineup of imported films that will be shown in Chinese cinemas during the summer months includes such well-known films as “How to Train Your Dragon,” “Jurassic World: Resurgence” and “Mission: Impossible – Final Fantasy XIV.”

    The event also featured a number of initiatives aimed at encouraging cinema attendance this summer.

    During the recent traditional Duanwu (Dragon Boat Festival) holiday, both box office receipts and the number of cinema attendees increased significantly compared to the same period last year.

    This year’s Dragon Boat Festival served as an effective warm-up for the upcoming summer season, signaling a recovery in the film market, said Lai Li, an analyst at Chinese film platform Maoyan, noting that the list of films scheduled for release this summer is extensive and diverse in genre. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Libyan PM orders probe into coastal city clashes

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    TRIPOLI, June 7 (Xinhua) — Libyan Prime Minister Abdel Hamid Dbeibah on Friday ordered an investigation into the clashes that broke out in the northwestern coastal city of Sabratha on Thursday.

    The prime minister’s press service said in a statement that the Libyan government leader had instructed the commander of the Western Military District to “launch an immediate and thorough investigation” into the clashes.

    “The instructions are part of yesterday’s order given to the commander of the Western Military District to urgently intervene in the situation and stop the fighting,” the statement added.

    According to local media, clashes between rival armed groups broke out on Thursday in Sabratha, about 70 km west of the capital Tripoli, and continued into Friday morning. There were no reports of casualties.

    Libya has suffered from insecurity and political instability since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi’s regime in 2011. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Four Israeli soldiers killed in Gaza blast

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    JERUSALEM, June 7 (Xinhua) — Four Israeli soldiers were killed in the southern Gaza Strip on Friday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said.

    The dead soldiers included 33-year-old Staff Sergeant Hen Gross and 19-year-old Staff Sergeant Yoav Raver, according to the statement.

    Israeli state television Kan TV News reported that the soldiers were killed when an explosive device went off at a Hamas-linked building in Khan Yunis, causing the building to collapse.

    Rescuers worked for several hours to extract bodies from the rubble, the channel reported. IDF troops entered the building after receiving intelligence that a Hamas tunnel was located underneath.

    According to the channel and the IDF, five more soldiers were injured in the incident. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Do YOU have what it takes?

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    About the U.S. Army: The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force. Interested in joining the U.S. Army? Visit:
    spr.ly/6001igl5L
    Connect with the U.S. Army online: Web:
    https://www.army.mil
    Facebook:
    https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/
    X:

    Instagram:
    https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/
    LinkedIn:
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
    #USArmy #Soldiers #Military #Shorts #Army

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVwD11WNGVI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 381

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL1

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 381
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1005 PM CDT Fri Jun 6 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Western and Central Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Panhandle
    The Texas Panhandle

    * Effective this Friday night and Saturday morning from 1005 PM
    until 600 AM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 3
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging winds likely with isolated significant gusts
    to 75 mph possible

    SUMMARY…Multiple intense supercells will likely continue to pose a
    threat for large to very large hail this evening into the early
    overnight hours as they move generally southeastward. The largest
    hailstones may reach up to 2-3 inches in diameter. A couple of
    tornadoes will also be possible with these supercells, especially
    along/near a surface boundary draped northwest to southeast across
    the OK/TX Panhandles into western/central OK. Otherwise, scattered
    severe/damaging winds up to 65-75 mph will likely become an
    increasing concern as thunderstorms grow upscale into a cluster
    overnight.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 65 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 35 miles south southwest of Guymon OK
    to 15 miles south southeast of Chandler OK. For a complete depiction
    of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
    WOU1).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 379…WW 380…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 3 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean
    storm motion vector 30035.

    …Gleason

    SEL1

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 381
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1005 PM CDT Fri Jun 6 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Western and Central Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Panhandle
    The Texas Panhandle

    * Effective this Friday night and Saturday morning from 1005 PM
    until 600 AM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 3
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging winds likely with isolated significant gusts
    to 75 mph possible

    SUMMARY…Multiple intense supercells will likely continue to pose a
    threat for large to very large hail this evening into the early
    overnight hours as they move generally southeastward. The largest
    hailstones may reach up to 2-3 inches in diameter. A couple of
    tornadoes will also be possible with these supercells, especially
    along/near a surface boundary draped northwest to southeast across
    the OK/TX Panhandles into western/central OK. Otherwise, scattered
    severe/damaging winds up to 65-75 mph will likely become an
    increasing concern as thunderstorms grow upscale into a cluster
    overnight.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 65 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 35 miles south southwest of Guymon OK
    to 15 miles south southeast of Chandler OK. For a complete depiction
    of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
    WOU1).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 379…WW 380…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 3 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean
    storm motion vector 30035.

    …Gleason

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW1
    WW 381 TORNADO OK TX 070305Z – 071100Z
    AXIS..65 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    35SSW GUY/GUYMON OK/ – 15SSE CQB/CHANDLER OK/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 55NM N/S /56N AMA – 45ENE OKC/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..3 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..65 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 550. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 30035.

    LAT…LON 37150174 36469672 34589672 35270174

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU1.

    Watch 381 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (40%)

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

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    High (70%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Mod (50%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (60%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (90%)

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Hassan Emphasizes Bipartisan Cooperation & Need to Streamline Regulations to Strengthen U.S. Supply Chains at Joint Economic Committee Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Joint Economic Committee, helped lead a hearing yesterday examining barriers to supply chain modernization and ways to enhance U.S. manufacturing productivity. During the hearing, Senator Hassan highlighted bipartisan agreement on the need to strengthen America’s ability to outcompete China while raising concerns about current policies from the Trump Administration that threaten recent progress. 
    “I join Chairman Schweikert in recognizing how important it is that we modernize our supply chains and strengthen manufacturing here in the United States, especially as we work to outcompete China,” said Senator Hassan. “In the last several years, we’ve seen increased investment in critical technology manufacturing across the country, including new funding for projects in my home state of New Hampshire.”  
    Senator Hassan emphasized the success of recent bipartisan investments in American manufacturing and research, noting that legislation like the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act has driven critical domestic technology manufacturing and that the bipartisan infrastructure law and energy tax cuts in the Inflation Reduction Act are supporting modern supply chains through energy production and infrastructure investments. “To capitalize on these investments, deliver for the American people, and support private sector growth, we also need to streamline regulations. Doing so is essential to advancing American innovation and manufacturing,” she said. 
    However, Senator Hassan expressed concerns about Trump Administration policies that could undermine recent progress: “President Trump’s actions have threatened the progress that we’ve started to see in recent years. His erratic tariffs are slowing manufacturing investment and his moves to slash funds for cutting-edge research will make it harder for the United States to develop and produce our own technology,” Senator Hassan warned.  
    Click here for video of the full hearing.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Hassan and Cornyn Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Crack Down on Dark Web Drug Trafficking

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH), a senior member of the Homeland Security Committee, and John Cornyn (R-TX) reintroduced a bipartisan bill to strengthen penalties on drug dealers and target international fentanyl trafficking through the dark web.
    “The dark web is a hotspot for illegal drug trafficking, which helps fuel the fentanyl crisis that is devastating New Hampshire and communities across our country,” said Senator Hassan. “This bipartisan bill will strengthen penalties on drug traffickers who use the dark web, making it more difficult for criminals to hide behind a computer as they spread illegal drugs on our streets.”
    “The dark web has become a marketplace for drug traffickers who exploit anonymity to flood our communities with deadly narcotics,” said Senator Cornyn. “This bill gives law enforcement the tools they need to crack down on these criminals by helping prosecutors hold bad actors accountable and by disrupting illicit drug sales on the dark web.” 
    The bipartisan Dark Web Interdiction Act would:
    Strengthen criminal penalties on individuals convicted of trafficking illegal drugs on the dark web by directing the United States Sentencing Commission to enhance sentencing guidelines for those individuals. 
    Solidify the work of the Joint Criminal Opioid and Darknet Enforcement (J-CODE) task force that leads coordinated international, federal, state, and local efforts to combat drug trafficking on the dark web. Since its creation in 2018, J-CODE has led to hundreds of arrests worldwide, seizures of thousands of pounds of narcotics, and the closure of several dark web marketplaces. 
    Direct the Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, and Treasury Department to issue a report to Congress within one year detailing the use of cryptocurrency in the distribution of opioids on the dark web, as well as provide recommendations for how Congress can address the use of virtual currency for opioid trafficking on the dark web. 
    This bipartisan bill is part of Senator Hassan’s ongoing efforts to stop drug trafficking and support communities devastated by the fentanyl crisis. Senator Hassan helped introduce the bipartisan HALT Fentanyl Act to permanently classify fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs under the Controlled Substances Act, which passed the U.S. Senate in March. Senator Hassan also helped advance the bipartisan DETECT Fentanyl and Xylazine Act, which was signed into law in December and is supporting law enforcement with enhanced tools to find and eliminate illegal substances such as fentanyl and xylazine. Additionally, Senator Hassan and her colleagues passed into law the bipartisan FEND Off Fentanyl Act, which targets the illicit fentanyl supply chain and imposes sanctions on traffickers. Senator Hassan also developed the END FENTANYL Act, signed into law last year, which helps strengthen Customs and Border Protection’s efforts to crack down on fentanyl trafficking at the border.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Announces $14 Million for Hurricanes Ida, Laura Recovery, Wildfire Suppression

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced Louisiana will receive $14,199,138.08 from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in reimbursement for building replacements, permanent repairs, and fire suppression efforts following Hurricanes Laura and Ida, and the Tiger Island Fire.
    “When natural disasters threaten lives and homes, Louisiana pulls together,” said Dr. Cassidy, “These dollars support the people and places that keep our state running.”
    Grant Awarded
    Recipient
    Project Description
    $ 3,486,98.90
    St. Nicholas Center for Children
    This grant will provide federal funding for replacement of the main building following Hurricane Laura.
    $3,436,062.30
    City of Sulphur
    This grant will provide federal funding for permanent repairs to the wastewater treatment plant generator system following Hurricane Laura.
    $1,129,735.21
    New Providence Baptist Church
    This grant will provide federal funding for permanent repairs to the main building following Hurricane Laura.
    $1,323,640.80
    South Louisiana Electric Cooperative Association
    This grant will provide federal funding for permanent repairs to the Houma Office Building following Hurricane Ida.
    $2,712,732.84
    South Louisiana Electric Cooperative Association
    This grant will provide federal funding for replacement of the Houma Office Building following Hurricane Ida.
    $1,041,069.96
    Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport
    This grant will provide federal funding for permanent repairs to Concourse B – East Terminal following Hurricane Ida.
    $1,068,910.07
    Louisiana Department of Public Safety
    This grant will provide federal funding for fire suppression operations during the Tiger Island Fire.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN to conduct a Working Visit to Norway

    Source: ASEAN

    At the invitation of the Government of the Kingdom of Norway, Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, will lead the ASEAN Secretariat delegation for a Working Visit to Norway, on 9 to 12 June 2025, covering Oslo and Bergen. Throughout the visit, SG Dr. Kao is scheduled to meet with key stakeholders, including the Prime Minister of Norway, H.E. Jonas Gahr Støre, as well as with various Ministers of the Government of Norway, parliamentarians, business community and private sectors, academia, and students.
     
    During his visit to Oslo, SG Dr. Kao will participate in the Oslo Forum and take the opportunity to give a lecture at the Centre of Geopolitics as well as engage in discussions at the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI). In addition, SG Dr. Kao will engage with the ASEAN Committee in Oslo (ACO) to brief members of the ACO on the latest developments in ASEAN. The Working Visit aims to further advance ASEAN-Norway ties, particularly as ASEAN and Norway celebrate their tenth anniversary of the ASEAN-Norway Sectoral Dialogue Partnership this year.
    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN to conduct a Working Visit to Norway appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Jones to Singapore for major energy conference

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Resources Minister Shane Jones travels to Singapore tomorrow where he will speak to more than 400 executives about New Zealand’s oil and gas investment opportunities at the Asia Pacific Energy Capital Assembly.

    “As a fierce champion for New Zealand’s oil and gas sector, the Asia Pacific Energy Capital Assembly conference on 9 and 10 June provides an unparalleled opportunity to tell investors from the Asia Pacific region that New Zealand is open for business and ready for investment,” Mr Jones says.

    “Investment in our resources means jobs, opportunities and economic growth for regional New Zealand. The Coalition Government is working hard to make New Zealand an attractive proposition for investors, with changes such as the reversal of the oil and gas exploration ban and the passing of the Fast-track Approvals Act.

    “Budget 2025 included a tagged contingency of $200 million over four years for business case-approved co‑investment in new gas fields. This investment sends a clear message to the international investment community that New Zealand is serious about oil and gas exploration to supply the gas we need to power our homes and businesses. The industry can also benefit from the Investment Boost policy, also announced in Budget 2025.

    “Of particular interest to international investors will be upcoming changes to the Crown Minerals Act which align petroleum decommissioning requirements with international best practice. These requirements were previously seen as a handbrake on investment.

    “I look forward to meeting oil and gas explorers and producers on the sidelines of the conference to discuss ways we can open new pathways for investment and opportunities for the oil and gas sector in New Zealand.”

    Mr Jones returns to New Zealand on 12 June.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Food Safety Day 2025 highlights importance of preventing cross-contamination

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department launched its annual Food Safety Day 2025 campaign today (June 7), emphasising the importance of preventing cross-contamination in safeguarding food safety. It serves to remind food businesses and the public that adopting proper hygiene and food handling practices, such as handling raw and cooked food separately, can reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.

    To echo World Food Safety Day, the CFS has chosen “preventing cross-contamination” as the theme for Food Safety Day 2025. Cross-contamination is one of the most common causes of food poisoning, occurring when harmful microorganisms are transferred directly or indirectly from raw food to cooked or ready-to-eat food via contaminated hands, utensils, cutting boards, or food contact surfaces. 

         “Food handlers and the public should remain vigilant in storing and handling raw and cooked foods separately, using designated utensils and storage containers, and maintaining good personal and environmental hygiene to prevent the spread of bacteria. If raw and cooked or ready-to-eat food must be handled in the same area, thorough disinfection between uses is essential,” said a CFS spokesman.

    Food handlers and members of the public are also reminded that maintaining hand hygiene is essential for minimising the risk of cross-contamination and ensuring food safety. Hands should be washed thoroughly with liquid soap and clean running water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food and wearing gloves, as well as after using the toilet, touching the face, or handling waste. Wearing gloves does not replace proper handwashing.

    To prevent foodborne diseases and curb the emergence of antimicrobial resistance, the CFS urges food businesses and the public to maintain proper personal and environmental hygiene and observe the “Five Keys to Food Safety” when preparing food, including choosing safe raw materials, keeping hands and utensils clean, separating raw and cooked food, cooking thoroughly, and keeping food at safe temperatures.

    ​For more information about Food Safety Day 2025 and related activities, please visit the CFS website (www.cfs.gov.hk).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by CE at International Science, Technology and Innovation Forum of Boao Forum for Asia 2025 Hong Kong Conference (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​Following is the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the International Science, Technology and Innovation Forum of the Boao Forum for Asia 2025 Hong Kong Conference today (June 7):

    Honourable Vice-Chairman Edmund Ho (Vice-Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and President of the International Science, Technology and Innovation Forum of Boao Forum for Asia), Deputy Director Liu Guangyuan (Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR)), Deputy Commissioner Li Yongsheng (Deputy Commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the HKSAR), Professor Frederick Ma (Chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: From smog to sunshine: Beijing’s decade-long clean air campaign pays off

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

    These days, Beijing resident Xie Xiaoyang frequently shares photo collages of the city’s blue skies on his WeChat Moments — a stark contrast to the smoggy environment he remembers from his student days in the Chinese capital over 10 years ago.

    “Social media was still in its infancy in China back then, with everyone eagerly sharing glimpses of their everyday routines,” Xie recalled. “Yet as autumn leaves fell and winter set in, the world outside dissolved into a murky haze. Posting enthusiasm waned, giving way to a citywide yearning for crisp blue skies.”

    Beihai Park is decorated with lanterns in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 19, 2025. (Photo by Li Menglan/Xinhua)

    Over the past decades, air pollution has persisted as a major environmental challenge for China amid its rapid urbanization and economic development. In a landmark response, the Chinese government declared war against air pollution in 2013, launching its Air Pollution Prevention and Control Action Plan (APPCAP) — a comprehensive national policy framework targeting air quality improvement — and sought to find a better balance between economic growth and environment protection.

    Following the introduction of the APPCAP, China became the first developing country in the world to impose large-scale efforts to reduce PM2.5 density, with Beijing taking the lead across Chinese cities by adopting scientific governance, institutional innovation and regional collaboration, contributing a new approach to global air pollution control. The United Nations Environment Programme has hailed the megacity’s achievements in improving air quality as the “Beijing Miracle.”

    According to the Beijing Municipal Ecology and Environment Bureau, the capital reported steady progress in air quality in 2024. The average density of PM2.5, a key indicator of air pollution, during the year was 30.5 micrograms per cubic meter of air, down 6.2 percent year on year. The number of days with good air quality reached 290, an increase of 114 days compared with 2013 and the highest number on record. Notably, the number of heavily polluted days dropped from 58 in 2013 to just two in 2024, which was a reduction of 96.6 percent.

    ARDUOUS CAMPAIGN

    At this year’s “two sessions,” Minister of Ecology and Environment Huang Runqiu presented two filter membranes collected from Beijing’s atmospheric environment monitors. The sample from 2015 exhibited a grayish-black hue, while last year’s counterpart showed a grayish-white coloration.

    “That grayish-black sample brings back memories of the days when my air purifier was working overtime,” Xie said, voicing a collective memory shared by Beijing residents who lived through the city’s smog-choked years.

    “Beijing was then facing an acute air pollution crisis, making rigorous anti-smog measures an urgent imperative,” said Li Xiang, an official of the local ecological environment protection’s law enforcement authorities.

    Building on the APPCAP, Beijing rolled out its clean air action plan from 2013 to 2017, launching a targeted campaign across four key battlefronts, including coal combustion control, vehicle emissions management, industrial pollution abatement and dust suppression.

    “All relevant municipal authorities solemnly signed responsibility pledges, vowing to secure victory in this crucial pollution control campaign,” said Xie Jinkai, director of the atmospheric environment department of the Beijing Municipal Ecology and Environment Bureau.

    This photo taken on Aug. 12, 2024 shows a view of the Shougang Park, a 3-square-kilometer industrial heritage site and a previous venue of the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, in Beijing, capital of China. (Xinhua/Zhang Chenlin)

    Beijing used to rely primarily on coal for winter heating. The first PM2.5 source analysis conducted in the capital — spanning 2012 to 2013 — identified coal combustion as one of the dominant contributors to local air pollution, said Wang Zifa, a researcher at the Institute of Atmospheric Physics under the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

    The megacity therefore made a resolute decision to launch a wide-ranging initiative to switch from coal to electricity for winter heating. Wang Yu, a senior engineer at the ecological environment bureau of Beijing’s Xicheng District who participated in the conversion project, recalled that the task was both complicated and arduous.

    Environmental protection authorities and power supply companies conducted door-to-door surveys in target neighborhoods, addressing key challenges based on residents’ actual conditions while carrying out various tasks, including upgrading external power supply facilities.

    By the end of 2015, the downtown Xicheng District became Beijing’s pioneer in achieving complete coal-free heating, a landmark transition that liberated residents from smoke-filled winters fueled by honeycomb briquettes. “Now our homes are warm and clean throughout winter. What a remarkable change,” said a longtime resident surnamed Bai who lives in the Niujie neighborhood of Xicheng District.

    Beijing also established a rigorous regulatory framework to accelerate coal reduction. The municipal government has successively implemented emissions standards for various facilities, including stationary gas turbines and boilers, setting stringent new limits on pollutants. Meanwhile, authorities have intensified their work against violations such as excessive emissions and abnormal operations of facilities. Key coal-consuming enterprises now face enhanced supervision to ensure compliance, with mandatory requirements for continuous green upgrades.

    Through coordinated actions from authorities, industries and communities, the capital’s plains achieved the fundamental status of being coal-free by the end of 2018, with coal-fired boilers virtually eliminated citywide.

    According to Wang, Beijing’s follow-up PM2.5 source studies revealed that coal combustion’s contribution to PM2.5 dropped from 22.4 percent in 2013 to just 3 percent in 2017, eliminating its status as a major pollution source. And after five years of sustained efforts, Beijing saw its average annual density of PM2.5 decrease from nearly 90 micrograms per cubic meter to 58 micrograms per cubic meter, achieving its phased goal in curbing pollution.

    PRECISION GOVERNANCE

    In 2018, Beijing launched a “1 microgram initiative” to continuously improve air quality, shifting greater focus to sectors like vehicle emissions and fugitive dust, which demand refined control measures, and striving for even single microgram-per-cubic-meter improvements.

    The year of 2021 marked a milestone in Beijing’s decade-long “blue skies” campaign, with its annual average PM2.5 concentration dropping to 33 micrograms per cubic meter — the lowest level since records began in 2013. The capital has since maintained compliant air quality standards for three consecutive years.

    “‘Beijing blue’ has gradually become our new normal,” Huang Runqiu said at a press conference.

    Thanks to aggressive renewable energy adoption and coal-replacement policies, Beijing’s energy mix has undergone a historic transformation. Its coal consumption plummeted from 21.8 million tonnes in 2012 to under 600,000 tonnes in 2024, now accounting for less than 1 percent of its total energy consumption, Yang Xiuling, director of the Beijing Municipal Development and Reform Commission, said recently.

    Furthermore, Beijing has implemented structural optimization processes in its industrial and transport sectors. The city has closed over 3,000 manufacturing or polluting enterprises and rectified more than 12,000 scattered, disorganized or polluting businesses through categorized remediation. A total of over 3 million high-pollution vehicles have been phased out.

    With its air quality having improved significantly, Beijing now faces more challenging pollution control targets that require increasingly scientific and refined measures. In 2025, the city elevated its air pollution governance to a new level of precision: its “0.1 microgram initiative.”

    This photo taken on Oct. 17, 2024 shows new energy vehicle model SU7 produced by Chinese tech firm Xiaomi displayed during the 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference in Beijing, capital of China. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao)

    “For instance, we will vigorously expand the adoption of new energy vehicles (NEVs), aiming for NEVs to comprise half of all registered vehicles by 2025,” Xie Jinkai said. “Through meticulous governance, we aim to consolidate and sustain emissions reduction achievements.”

    According to the municipal government work report this year, the number of NEVs in the city has exceeded 1 million, and the proportion of green electricity in the city’s energy mix has reached 26 percent.

    MULTI-LEVEL COOPERATION

    According to Li Xiang, an illegal sand and gravel plant in Dashiwo Town of Beijing’s Fangshan District, which borders Zhuozhou City in Hebei Province, had once caused severe fugitive dust pollution in the local area.

    “At that time, with Beijing and Hebei conducting separate law enforcement operations, the plant utilized vehicle-mounted mobile production equipment to shuttle across the provincial boundary, allowing the illegal operations to persist unchecked for an extended period,” Li said.

    Since 2015, the ecological and environmental law enforcement agencies of Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei have formally established and continuously improved a joint environmental enforcement mechanism, creating coordinated systems that involve regular consultations, joint operations and collaborative inspections to collectively combat cross-regional environmental violations.

    After three years, the plant was officially shut down through a joint enforcement operation conducted by Beijing and Hebei authorities. In 2019, the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region expanded its joint law enforcement mechanism to cover district and county levels.

    Tourists visit the Tiantan (Temple of Heaven) Park in Beijing, capital of China, June 25, 2024. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong)

    Beijing has broadened its air quality governance collaboration from a domestic level to an international level in recent years. Beyond hosting an annual international forum on clean air and climate to facilitate exchanges among environmental experts, policymakers and businesses globally, the city also took a significant step earlier this year, when the Beijing Municipal Ecology and Environment Bureau signed a memorandum of understanding with the Environment Department of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to boost air quality monitoring and management cooperation.

    Over the next three years, Beijing will share its proven expertise in air pollution control — particularly its PM2.5 monitoring and mitigation strategies — with Bangkok to support the Thai capital’s air quality improvement efforts.

    However, Xie Jinkai noted that Beijing’s current air quality improvements remain fragile, with regional pollution spikes likely to recur during unfavorable meteorological conditions.

    “Air quality improvement remains a long-term, complex and challenging mission. Beijing’s pollution control efforts will continue advancing to deeper, more precise stages,” Xie said.

    “Our shared goal is to maintain lasting blue skies and fresh air, continuously meeting the people’s growing expectations for a beautiful environment,” she added.  

    MIL OSI China News –