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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Uzbekistan is ready to strengthen cooperation in tourism with China

    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, May 30 /Xinhua/ — Uzbekistan attaches particular importance to strengthening cooperation with China in the field of tourism, said Minister-Counselor of the Embassy of Uzbekistan in China Saidkamol Agzamkhodjaev.

    S. Agzamkhodjaev made this statement on Wednesday in Beijing at the presentation of the Strategy “Uzbekistan-2030”, organized jointly by the Embassy of Uzbekistan in China and the Institute of Russia, Eastern Europe and Central Asia of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CAS).

    In December 2024, Uzbekistan and China signed an agreement on a visa-free regime, and the “Year of Tourism of Uzbekistan in China” began.

    “As part of the Year of Tourism of Uzbekistan in China, forums and presentations of the tourism potential of Uzbekistan are being held in various cities of the PRC,” said S. Agzamkhodjaev.

    On June 1, 2025, the Agreement between the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan on mutual exemption from visa requirements will come into force.

    According to the document, citizens of both countries are exempt from visa requirements when entering, leaving or transiting through the territories of the two countries for a period of no more than 30 days for each individual stay and for a total period of no more than 90 days within any 180-day period.

    “Undoubtedly, this will contribute to the development of the tourism sector and increase the tourist flow,” noted S. Agzamkhodjaev, adding that Uzbekistan intends to increase the number of Chinese tourists visiting Uzbekistan annually to one million people.

    Currently, China and Uzbekistan airlines operate 58 flights per week on routes linking nine cities in the two countries, including Beijing, Urumqi, Xi’an, Chengdu, Hangzhou, Tashkent, Samarkand and Fergana. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Fusion cell disrupts scam job networks targeting Australians

    Source:

    The National Anti-Scam Centre (NASC) has just published the final report of the job scam fusion cell, highlighting the combined efforts of government, law enforcement, academics, and the private sector in tackling the rise in job and employment scams.
    In 2024, Scamwatch received more than 3000 reports of job scams, with reported losses totalling $13.7 million. Average losses to these scams were 5.1% higher than the average for all other scam types.
    The NASC’s job scam fusion cell removed more than 29,000 scam social media accounts and 1850 fake job advertisements from September 2024 to March 2025
    Job scams result in significant financial losses and put people at risk of identity theft. The scams disproportionately affect people on low incomes, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, international students, non-resident visa holders, people with caring responsibilities, and others with limited employment options.
    What the job scams fusion cell has done
    The job scams fusion cell:

    worked with Meta to remove 29,000 accounts sharing job scam content
    referred 836 scammer cryptocurrency wallets to digital currency exchanges for analysis and investigation, leading to blocking and blacklisting of wallets

    referred 1850 scam enablers such as websites and scam job advertisements for removal

    disrupted scammer impersonations of Australian Government entities, such as the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Department of Home Affairs, and APSJobs
    held awareness and prevention forums with organisations across the tertiary education sector to enable them to deliver scams awareness messaging
    coordinated a social media campaign
    created guides for businesses, including about how to protect themselves and the community
    established data sharing arrangements with cryptocurrency platforms.

    Be aware of job scams
    Scammers advertise job opportunities so they can steal money and personal information. Stop and check any job ad that requires you paying money to make money. It could be a scam.
    Find out more about job and employment scams and how to protect yourself.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Employing staff? Our video explains your super obligations

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    As an employer, you must pay super guarantee (SG) for your eligible employees and contractors in full, on time and to the right fund.

    Before 1 July 2025, the SG rate is 11.5%. From 1 July onwards, the SG rate increases to 12%.

    You must pay SG at least quarterly but you can pay it more often to help manage your cashflow. Find out more at ato.gov.au/cashflowcoachingkit The next quarterly SG payment is due 28 July. There are penalties if you don’t pay on time.

    This video explains your super obligations so you can avoid extra paperwork, charges, or penalties.

    For more information visit ato.gov.au/superforemployers

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-supported peacebuilding and mediation capabilities event a success

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    UK-supported peacebuilding and mediation capabilities event a success

    A four-day colloquium on Peacebuilding and Mediation Capabilities successfully concludes in Honiara, Solomon Islands on Friday 30 May 2025.

    A group photo of all the women participants with British High Commissioner to Solomon Islands and Nauru, His Excellency Paul Turner.

    Supported by the UK International Development and Australian Aid and organised by the Pacific Women Mediators Network (PWMN), the inaugural colloquium aims to commemorate and uplift the legacy of the Pacific Islands Women-led peacebuilding initiatives, reaffirming the role of women in peace and security efforts.

    It also aims to demonstrate the intersectionality of feminist perspectives and the Gender, Women, Peace and Security (WPS) in the Pacific Islands region. Additionally, the meeting also aims to reaffirm gender equality, women’s rights, and the inclusion of women’s voices and experiences in all aspects of peace and security work.

    Enhancing visibility of Pacific Islands women-led and civil society led mediation and peacebuilding initiatives responding to priority issues including Climate Security and Climate Justice, Self Determination and Gender Equality are also part of the meeting.

    The regional meeting that began on Tuesday 27 May 2025 also aims to connect national conversations with regional inter-governmental and global processes including the United Nations Peacebuilding Architecture Review (PBAR).

    It is a cross – regional learning opportunity that will enable the founding members of PWMN and youth leaders, civil society allies, including faith and traditional leaders to identify ways to move beyond surface-level calls to implement WPS and towards realising the full vision of the Gender and WPS agenda in practice.

    Speaking at the inaugural colloquium on Tuesday 27 May, British High Commissioner to Solomon Islands and Nauru, His Excellency Paul Turner said:

    Women have been at the forefront of peace movements across the world. I saw this first hand when I was working on Northern Ireland and Bosnia in the 1990s. It was women who reached out across communities in these places, who refused to let walls of blood divide people and keep them in conflict. The UK Government remains steadfast in its support for this initiative as we strengthen the global network of women in peace building.

    Held ahead of the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 (Women, Peace and Security), and the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting that will convene in Honiara in September 2025, it is expected Pacific Forum Leaders will adopt their Guidance Note on Women, Peace and Security and the Ocean of Peace Declaration.

    The UK has a global commitment to UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security. We are proud to support the ambitions of the Pacific Islands Forum in promoting this agenda and supporting its members to embed its ideals across the region, as well as grassroots networks and organisations working to protect and uplift women in the Pacific.

    The UK has five Strategic Objectives for Women Peace and Security in its National Action Plan, which are as relevant in the Pacific as elsewhere in the world. They include:

    • increasing women’s meaningful participation, leadership and representation in decision-making processes
    • preventing gender-based violence, including conflict-related sexual violence, and supporting survivors to cope, recover and seek justice
    • supporting the needs of women and girls in crises and ensuring they can participate and lead in responses
    • increasing the accountability of security and justice actors to women and girls and ensuring they are responsive to their rights and needs
    • ensuring we respond to the needs of women and girls as part of our approach to transnational threats

    The colloquium concluded on Friday 30 May 2025.

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Nepal’s royalists demand restoration of monarchy dumped 17 years ago

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Thousands of supporters of Nepal’s former king rallied in the capital Kathmandu on Thursday, calling for the restoration of the constitutional monarchy that was abolished 17 years ago, amid rising unhappiness with successive elected governments.

    Flag-waving protesters marched into the city centre from different directions shouting: “Our king is dearer than lives … king come back and save the country,” as riot police stood guard but did not intervene.

    At a similar rally in March, two people were killed and several injured.

    The 239-year-old monarchy was voted out in 2008 following weeks of bloody street protests. The last king of the Himalayan nation, 77-year-old Gyanendra, has lived with his family in a private house in Kathmandu as a commoner since being toppled.

    He has not commented on Thursday’s demonstration but expressed sorrow at the violence that killed two people in March.

    Demonstrators are also calling for the country of 30 million people, wedged between China and India, to become a Hindu state again, a status it lost with the monarchy.

    “Governments formed in the last 17 years have failed to deliver on their promises of development, creation of jobs and improvement of the living conditions of people,” said 35-year-old street vendor Rajendra Tamang.

    “Thousands of young people are forced to leave the country in search of work as they see no hope here,” he said.

    Millions of young Nepalis are working in the Middle East, South Korea and Malaysia, mainly at construction sites, and the money they send home is a key source of income for Nepal.

    Supporters of the government staged a separate but smaller rally nearby in support of the republican system that replaced the monarchy.

    The three major political parties that jointly control nearly 200 of the 275 seats in parliament say the monarchy was consigned to history and cannot be restored.

    All three jointly campaigned against the monarchy and voted it out in 2008 and say their faith in the republican system was unshakeable.

    The Rastriya Prajatantra Party, which is campaigning for the monarchy, holds only 13 seats in parliament.

    A two-thirds majority or 184 lawmakers is needed to change the constitution, which was adopted in 2015, turning Nepal into a federal democratic republic.

    The royalists say their protests will continue until the monarchy is restored.

    (Reuters)

  • PM Modi to launch ₹48,500 crore development projects in Bihar today

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to unveil development projects worth ₹48,500 crore during his visit to Bikramganj in Bihar’s Rohtas district on Friday. His address at a large public rally will mark the launch and foundation laying of key infrastructure and welfare initiatives aimed at accelerating Bihar’s growth across sectors like transportation, energy, and connectivity.

    Ahead of the Prime Minister’s arrival, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Governor Arif Mohammad Khan are expected to reach the venue. The rally site, sprawling across 444 acres, has been extensively prepared with a large stage, massive canopy, and elaborate floral decorations, with flowers sourced from Kolkata and Patna. Local artisans worked through Thursday to complete the arrangements.

    Security has been tightened with over 5,000 personnel deployed at the venue. The force includes 10 Superintendents of Police, 50 Deputy SPs, and over 1,000 inspectors and sub-inspectors. A total of 250 checkpoints have been established, and temporary police stations, ambulances, and fire engines are also stationed on-site. The District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police are personally overseeing the arrangements.

    From the rally platform, PM Modi will inaugurate or lay the foundation stone for several big-ticket projects. These include key road and railway upgrades such as the Patna-Gaya-Dobhi four-lane road, a four-lane elevated corridor in Gopalganj, and third railway lines between Sonnagar-Muhammadganj and Kajart Nawadih-Sonnagar. He will also inaugurate three 800 MW power units under Phase II of the Navinagar thermal plant and major national highways including the Varanasi-Ranchi-Kolkata six-lane expressway.

    Additional projects include the automatic block signalling system from Sasaram to Anugrah Narayan Road, a new Ganga bridge between Buxar and Bharauli on NH-92, and the extension of NH-119D from Ramnagar to Kachchi Dargah. PM Modi will also inaugurate the new five-platform railway terminal at Harding Park in Patna, as well as facilities like hostels and staff quarters in Jehanabad.

    With thousands of supporters expected to attend, the rally is not only a platform for announcing development projects but also carries political significance. The visit is seen as a key moment for strengthening the BJP’s organisational base in the state ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. 

    -IANS

  • Musk aiming to send uncrewed Starship to Mars by end of 2026

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Two days after the latest in a string of test-flight setbacks for his big new Mars spacecraft, Starship, Elon Musk said on Thursday he foresees the futuristic vehicle making its first uncrewed voyage to the red planet at the end of next year.

    Musk presented a detailed Starship development timeline in a video posted online by his Los Angeles area-based rocket company, SpaceX, a day after saying he was departing the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump as head of a tumultuous campaign to slash government bureaucracy.

    The billionaire entrepreneur had said earlier that he was planning to scale back his role in government to focus greater attention on his various businesses, including SpaceX and electric car and battery maker Tesla.

    Musk acknowledged that his latest timeline for reaching Mars hinged on whether Starship can accomplish a number of challenging technical feats during its flight-test development, particularly a post-launch refueling maneuver in Earth orbit.

    The end of 2026 would coincide with a slim window that occurs once every two years when Mars and Earth align around the sun for the closest trip between the two planets, which would take seven to nine months to transit by spacecraft.

    Musk gave his company a 50-50 chance of meeting that deadline. If Starship were not ready by that time, SpaceX would wait another two years before trying again, Musk suggested in the video.

    The first flight to Mars would carry a simulated crew consisting of one or more robots of the Tesla-built humanoid Optimus design, with the first human crews following in the second or third landings. Musk said he envisioned eventually launching 1,000 to 2,000 ships to Mars every two years to quickly establish a self-sustaining permanent human settlement.

    NASA is currently aiming to return humans to the surface of the moon aboard Starship as early as 2027 – more than 50 years after its last manned lunar landings of the Apollo era – as a stepping stone toward ultimately launching astronauts to Mars sometime in the 2030s.

    Musk, who has advocated for a more Mars-focused human spaceflight program, has previously said he was aiming to send an unmanned SpaceX vehicle to the red planet as early as 2018 and was targeting 2024 to launch a first crewed mission there.

    The SpaceX founder was scheduled to deliver a livestream presentation billed as “The Road to Making Life Multiplanetary” from the company’s Starbase, Texas, launch site on Tuesday night, following a ninth test flight of Starship that evening.

    But the webcast was canceled without notice after Starship spun out of control and disintegrated in a fireball about 30 minutes after launch and roughly halfway through its flight path without achieving some of its most important test goals.

    Two preceding test flights in January and March failed in more spectacular fashion, with the spacecraft blowing to pieces on ascent moments after liftoff, raining debris over parts of the Caribbean and forcing scores of commercial jetliners to change course as a precaution.

    Musk shrugged off the latest mishap on Tuesday with a brief post on X, saying it produced a lot of “good data to review” and promising a faster launch “cadence” for the next several test flights.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Workpace death at Elizabeth South

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Police are preparing a report for the coroner following the death of a man at Elizabeth South this morning.

    Emergency services were called to Phillip Highway just before 10.30am on Friday 30 May after reports a man had become trapped in machinery.

    Sadly the 38-year-old man from Para Hills West died at the scene.

    Safework SA have been advised of the incident.

    There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mediation body established in HK

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Executive John Lee

    I am delighted to join you on this historic occasion: to celebrate with you the signing of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed).

    Gathered here today, in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China, are high-level representatives of over 80 countries from Asia, Africa, Latin America and Europe; and from the United Nations and about 20 international organisations. A very warm welcome to Hong Kong!

    It is a privilege for us to host this signing ceremony, and to serve as the IOMed headquarters, once the convention enters into force.

    This singular occasion is made possible by the ongoing and dedicated efforts of China, our country, in working with around 20 states, since late 2022, to establish an intergovernmental organisation devoted to mediation. After five rounds of intensive negotiation since 2023, co-ordinated by the IOMed Preparatory Office, the negotiating states concluded the very convention signed today.

    The IOMed will become the world’s first intergovernmental international legal organisation dedicated to resolving international disputes through mediation. It also reflects our shared confidence in mediation as a peaceful means to maintain international peace and security, as stipulated in the Charter of the United Nations.

    The IOMed will provide a pathway for countries – regardless of culture, language and legal system – to resolve international disputes based on mutual respect and understanding. This is increasingly important amid mounting geopolitical tensions. When protectionism threatens to derail the international trade order, and when unilateralism looms over global supply chains, it is dialogue – not division – that restores balance.

    China has long championed equity and unity. The Chinese virtue of “和而不同”, meaning “harmony in diversity”, is deeply rooted in our community and culture. This value of mutual respect in spite of differences also sits at the heart of mediation, the IOMed, and a world that seeks co-operation over conflict.

    Despite geopolitical turbulence, Hong Kong builds bridges, not walls. Under our unique “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong is the only world city that enjoys both the China advantage and the global advantage. With the support of the National 14th Five-Year Plan, Hong Kong has risen as an international legal and dispute resolution services centre in the Asia-Pacific region.

    We are the only common law jurisdiction in China, and the only jurisdiction in the world with a bilingual common law system in both Chinese and English. We have a long tradition of the rule of law, and our courts exercise their judicial power independently. Hong Kong’s Court of Final Appeal, which is vested with the power of final adjudication, has on its bench eminent jurists from both Hong Kong and overseas common law jurisdictions.

    Our robust, efficient and well-respected legal system is supported by world-class legal and dispute resolution professionals. Often bilingual or even multilingual, they are well-versed in international rules and practices, and help to position Hong Kong as a preferred venue for dispute resolution.

    In this year’s International Arbitration Survey, Hong Kong is the most preferred seat of arbitration in the Asia-Pacific region, and shares second place globally with another jurisdiction. Our economy also came first in business legislation and international trade in the World Competitiveness Yearbook. In the latest Business Ready Report published by the World Bank Group, Hong Kong ranks eighth in dispute resolution among the 50 economies covered.

    All this underscores Hong Kong’s effectiveness as a super connector and super value-adder among many economies. We contribute to cross-border investment and economic activity through our top-notch professional services. Our “one country, two systems” advantages make us well-placed to be the headquarters of the important institution of the IOMed.

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is devoted to supporting the IOMed’s provision of friendly, flexible, economical and efficient mediation services. We actively promote a vibrant culture of mediation. In fact, it is a general policy to incorporate a mediation clause in all government contracts. We are also enhancing the system on local accreditation and disciplinary matters of the mediation profession.

    And we go all out to build bridges with the world. Hong Kong will actively promote the IOMed’s valuable work in settling international disputes through mediation, and advocate mediation as a global tool for peace and justice across borders.

    Ladies and gentlemen, the establishment of the IOMed’s headquarters in Hong Kong is a great honour for our city. The headquarters, as you may know, will be based in the building that once housed the Wan Chai Police Station, just a stone’s throw away from here. Built in 1932, this iconic building has a long association with law and order in Hong Kong. From its prime downtown location, it has also witnessed the transformation of our city that has long treasured unity. In its new role as the IOMed headquarters, the building will play a vital part in the future of Hong Kong as a centre for international legal and dispute resolution services.

    We are working to complete the conversion of the building for its new mission. I am happy to say that it could open its doors as early as the end of this year. We look forward not only to welcoming its new occupants, but also to supporting them in building new bridges for a more connected, peaceful and prosperous future through mediation.

    I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the central government for its staunch support of Hong Kong, allowing Hong Kong the honour of housing the IOMed headquarters here. My sincere gratitude also goes to the international community, for placing your trust and confidence in our city. Let’s renew our commitment to peace, justice and the rule of law. Let’s cultivate a mediation culture together. Let’s build a strong IOMed for a global community of shared future founded on peace and prosperity. Please enjoy the day and enjoy Hong Kong. Thank you.

    Chief Executive John Lee gave this speech at the Signing Ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation on May 30.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Joint Statement of the Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team (MSMT) on the first report covering DPRK-Russia military cooperation

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Joint Statement of the Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team (MSMT) on the first report covering DPRK-Russia military cooperation

    Several countries gave a joint statement following the publication of the first report of the Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team (MSMT).

    Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand,
    Republic of Korea, the UK and the USA gave a statement following the publication of the first report of the Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team (MSMT):

    We, the participating states of the Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team (MSMT), released today its first report. This multilateral mechanism was established in October 2024 to monitor and report on the implementation of United Nations sanctions measures on the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). The report is available on the official MSMT website.

    The report, which focuses primarily on unlawful DPRK-Russia military cooperation including arms transfers and Russia’s training of DPRK troops, consolidates information provided by MSMT participating states on violations and evasions of sanction measures stipulated in relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs). The report also contains information provided by open source intelligence organizations.

    This report is a product of our efforts to address the monitoring gap arising from the disbandment of the UN Security Council’s 1718 Committee Panel of Experts in April 2024 which was caused by Russia’s veto in March 2024. The report will assist with the full implementation of UN sanctions by the international community. The opportunity for dialogue to reestablish the Panel of Experts as a central element of the UN sanctions framework remains open, provided the Panel is restored to the full form it had prior to disbandment.

    With the release of the first MSMT report, we underscore once again our shared determination to fully implement relevant UNSCRs. We urge the DPRK to engage in meaningful diplomacy, and call on all states to join global efforts to maintain international peace and security in the face of ongoing threats from the DPRK and those that facilitate its illicit activities in contravention of relevant UNSCRs.

    We will continue our efforts to monitor the implementation of UNSCRs on the DPRK and raise awareness of ongoing attempts to violate and evade UN sanctions.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Email the FCDO Newsdesk (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU students took all the prize places at the city programming championship

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University – On May 24, Novosibirsk hosted a personal championship among university students in programming. Over the course of three hours, participants solved algorithmic problems of varying levels of complexity – from basic calculations to non-trivial problems on tiling figures.

    All the prize places were taken by students Faculty of Information Technology (FIT) and Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics (MMF) NSU, demonstrating a high level of preparation and confident work under limited time conditions:

    1st degree diploma: – Sofia Lylova, FIT.

    Second degree diploma: – Danil Aleshkov, MMF, – Vyacheslav Shalunov, FIT, – Dmitry Stolyarov, FIT.

    Diploma of the 3rd degree: – Stepan Kulakov, MMF, – Bogdan Martynov, FIT, – Vladislav Gaev, FIT.

    For the winner of the championship, Sofia Lylova, participation was both training and an opportunity to take a break from her thesis.

    — I wanted not only to switch, but also to practice. It was a great opportunity to take a break from intense work and at the same time maintain my skills in another area. When I found out that I had become the winner, I felt calm confidence, since this was the result that was most expected. Therefore, there is joy, but it is light and restrained, — Sofia shared.

    According to her, the most difficult moment was choosing the next task: when obvious solutions are already behind us, we have to carefully evaluate the strategy and risks.

    Bogdan Martynov noted that he perceived participation as an opportunity to compete in good company:

    — The championship was dedicated to programming, so I decided: why not? Especially since there will be something to discuss with my comrades. And when I found out that I was among the prize winners, I was pleasantly surprised, — said Bogdan.

    The city programming championship became not only a test of knowledge, but also another confirmation: NSU produces strong programmers who know how to win – both in studies and in competitions.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Extra hydro generation secured to support energy security

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Guardians of Lakes Manapōuri and Te Anau and Meridian Energy have agreed on changes to the Operating Guidelines for how the lake levels are managed, that will boost New Zealand’s hydro generation and energy security, Energy Minister Simon Watts has announced.
    “These changes will deliver an extra 45 GWh of energy from the Manapōuri Power Scheme each year that’s enough energy to power around 6,000 homes. It is an important step in the Government and the sector’s work to protect the security of our energy supply for the future,” Mr Watts says.
    “Last Winter, New Zealand faced an energy shortage that led to significant price increases for consumers, in part due to low hydro lake levels. This Government will not accept a repeat of last winter and is working at pace to ensure we have a reliable and affordable energy supply.
    “Lake Manapōuri and Lake Te Anau are not only environmentally and culturally significant, but they are also essential to New Zealand’s energy system. However, in recent years the lower operating ranges of these lakes have been underutilised, impacting our energy supply and risking the health of plant life along their shorelines.
    “The agreement reached today allows for more flexible drawdown rates once the lakes reach lower operating levels, enabling Meridian to continue generating when lake levels are low. The changes balance the needs of our country’s electricity system with the environmental impact on the lakes and their surrounding areas.
    “I am pleased to have enacted the Guardians and Meridian’s recommendations by amending the relevant legislation and publishing in the New Zealand gazette.
    “I acknowledge the expertise of the Guardians, who are responsible for advising on environmental, ecological and social effects of the power station on the lakes, and Meridian, as operator of the Manapōuri power station.
    “I thank them for working together to recommend a path forward that better protects the existing patterns, ecological stability and recreational values of the lakes, while optimising hydro generation.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Campfire and private burn-off safety urged this coming long weekend

    Source:

    As Victorians head outdoors to enjoy the King’s Birthday long weekend, fire and land authorities are reminding campers and visitors to forests and parks to be safe around campfires.

    Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) Chief Fire Officer Chris Hardman said with cooler temperatures settling in, it might feel like the fire risk has passed, but with parks and forests remaining dry, campfires can quickly escape and become devastating bushfires.

    After a warmer and drier-than-average autumn and normal rainfall expected this winter, the fire risk is higher than usual – particularly in parts of western, southwestern and southeastern Victoria.

    “Even at this time of year, just one unattended or poorly managed campfire can cause serious damage to the environment and put lives and property at risk,” Mr Hardman said.

    “This season, we’ve responded to more than 370 incidents involving campfires. This included the Boroka Lookout Fire, where an illegal campfire turned into a bushfire in difficult terrain, on the edge of the cliff diverting resources responding to bushfires in the Grampians National Park.

    “With a little extra care around your campfire this long weekend, we can keep forests and parks healthy and safe for everyone to enjoy.

    “Never leave a campfire unattended and use water to fully extinguish it – if it’s cool to touch it’s safe to leave.

    Chief Conservation Regulator Kate Gavens said: “Campfires are a cause of bushfires that are 100% preventable and our authorised officers will be visiting campsites throughout Victoria’s parks and forests to make sure everyone is following the rules so we can all have a safe and enjoyable long weekend.”

    Parks Victoria Executive Director of Operations Kylie Trott said: “We want people to get out and enjoy Victoria’s great outdoors, but unsafe campfires can have devastating consequences. It only takes one camper ignoring the rules to endanger the community and our environment.”  

    CFA Acting Chief Officer Garry Cook AFSM said while conditions over the weekend will also be an opportune time for residents to burn-off, extreme care should be taken to ensure enough water and resources are on hand to extinguish burns properly.

    “Escaped burn-offs, particularly in the current dry conditions, continue to cause significant concern and great risk to our communities across the state,” he said.

    “It is really important landowners have someone monitoring their fire activity at all times.  Although cooler days are arriving, now is not the time to be complacent.

    “This weekend, take a moment to check the wind forecast, ensure you’ve left ample room in your fire break and please register your burn-off online to help reduce unnecessary callouts to emergency services.”

    Before hitting the road, people should be familiar with local campfire regulations and safety measures to help protect the environment and local communities at https://www.vic.gov.au/campfires-stoves-and-bbqs. 

    People who breach campfire regulations on public land face a maximum penalty of $19,759 if the matter is prosecuted in court. The maximum penalty for lighting or maintaining a fire during a day of Total Fire Ban is $47,421.60 and/or 2 years in jail.   

    Report unattended campfires to 136 186 or call 000 to report a bushfire.    

    Remember, if you light it, you own it!

    Submitted by Lucy Bishop

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Will elections for judges make Mexico the ‘most democratic country in the world’? Critics fear the opposite

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Luis Gómez Romero, Senior Lecturer in Human Rights, Constitutional Law and Legal Theory, University of Wollongong

    On Sunday, Mexico will hold an unprecedented election, becoming the first country in the world to allow voters to elect judges at every level.

    Voters will elect approximately half the judges in the country on June 1 – from the nine members of the Supreme Court down to 850 federal judges and thousands more at lower levels. In 2027, a second vote will see the rest of Mexico’s judiciary elected.

    As part of the overhaul, the country’s merit-based, career judiciary system will be abolished. Instead, all judges will serve nine-year terms, renewable by popular vote.

    The election had been championed by former president Andrés Manuel López Obrador and embraced by his successor, Claudia Sheinbaum, who took office in October.

    Sheinbaum has proclaimed Mexico will be “the most democratic country in the world” because the people will now choose all three branches of government.

    Critics are not so sure. Some are calling the process a cynical farce. Others warn it will concentrate power in Morena, the ruling party, and its political allies, dismantling the country’s system of checks and balances.

    Critics also warn that inexperienced judges could be elected, or those who could be influenced by organised crime. Some candidates themselves have been investigated for crimes, and at least two are former defence attorneys for drug cartels.

    Former president Ernesto Zedillo, currently director at the Yale Centre for the Study of Globalisation, has gone so far as to declare that democracy itself “has come to an end” in Mexico.

    Why reform the judiciary?

    During his time in office from 2018–2024, López Obrador waged a rhetorical battle with Mexico’s courts, accusing judges of serving the elites and blocking his agenda.

    In truth, what irked López Obrador was the fact the courts wielded the power to review and restrain his actions through constitutional oversight.

    Sheinbaum seems to share his hostility towards the judiciary. Arturo Zaldívar, a former Supreme Court chief justice who designed the judicial reform system and later joined Sheinbaum’s cabinet, has accused the outgoing chief justice, Norma Piña, of being “a force of opposition allied with the oligarchy”.

    In September 2024, Morena used its congressional super-majority to ram through a series of constitutional amendments to enact the judicial reform.

    In response, judges walked off the job. Court staff, lawyers and law students took to the streets in support of their strike, some carrying banners reading “justice is not a popularity contest”.

    Experts note the reform does nothing to fix Mexico’s real justice problems – the rampant corruption and abuse that plagues the system. The institutions that allow criminals to act with impunity are not the courts, but the prosecutors and police.

    Human Rights Watch reports that nearly half of Mexicans have “little or very little confidence” in the country’s justice authorities. Nine in ten Mexicans don’t even bother to report crimes.

    The perils of judicial elections

    Electing judges is an idea fraught with peril. International human rights law treats an independent judiciary as a basic human right. Article 8 of the 1978 American Convention on Human Rights – an international treaty for North, Central and South America – guarantees every person “a hearing by a competent, independent and impartial tribunal.”

    Popular elections invite precisely the opposite. As UN experts caution, election campaigns will inevitably inject “political loyalty or alignment with party interests” into judge selection, rather than competence and impartiality.

    In addition, leading legal theorists have long warned that politicising the judiciary undermines the rule of law.

    US jurist Ronald Dworkin argued judges must decide according to principles – not political winds. Italian jurist Luigi Ferrajoli’s notion of a “guarantee-based” democracy – which is hugely influential in Latin America – likewise insists judges be insulated from party bargaining.

    Even in the United States, where some states hold judicial elections, scholars lament their corrosive effects.

    As one study notes:

    Wealthy people and corporations can pump lots of money […] to elect and reelect judges who decide cases the way they want.

    Opponents of billionaire Elon Musk critiqued his decision this year to pour US$21 million (A$33 million) into the campaign of a conservative candidate for the Wisconsin Supreme Court. In a comment he posted on X, Musk said he didn’t expect to win but “there is value to losing a piece for positional gain.”

    Bolivia offers another cautionary tale. Beginning in 2011, Bolivia has held elections for the judges on its top courts in an effort to “decolonise” the justice system and fight corruption.

    In practice, though, only judges pre-approved by the ruling party’s congressional majority make the ballot. Voters, too, know little about the candidates. Turnout is very low.

    Courts increasingly under attack

    Mexico’s justice system, indeed, needs reform. But its multiple problems will not be solved with the wholesale politicisation of the courts.

    As Argentine scholar Roberto Gargarella bluntly observes, electing judges in this way is “one of the greatest institutional tragedies of our time.”

    Mexico’s reform effort threatens to turn the courts into just another party apparatus. In that sense, Mexico joins a disturbing global trend. From Washington to Brasília, populist leaders are increasingly attacking the courts as the enemies of the people.

    With courts in Mexico potentially beholden to the government or influenced by organised crime, neutral judges may become much harder to find. If history teaches anything, it’s that the night of authoritarianism grows darker when the last judges are gone.

    Luis Gómez Romero does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Will elections for judges make Mexico the ‘most democratic country in the world’? Critics fear the opposite – https://theconversation.com/will-elections-for-judges-make-mexico-the-most-democratic-country-in-the-world-critics-fear-the-opposite-257730

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • Indian stock market opens flat amid stable institutional investments

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian benchmark indices opened on a flat note on Friday, tracking weak cues from Asian markets and early pressure in IT and auto stocks. Analysts suggest the market is likely to remain in a consolidation phase in the near term due to the absence of strong positive triggers.

    At 9:29 a.m., the Sensex was marginally up by 11.77 points at 81,644.79, while the Nifty gained 13.20 points to trade at 24,846.80.

    The Nifty Bank index rose by 81.20 points (0.15%) to 55,627.25, and the Nifty Midcap 100 climbed 0.44% to 57,707.65. The Nifty Smallcap 100 also edged higher by 0.21% to 17,927.15.

    Despite subdued trade in early hours, analysts noted a positive technical signal from Thursday’s session, where the Nifty staged a smart rebound towards the end. Akshay Chinchalkar, Head of Research at Axis Securities, said, “Yesterday’s recovery showed a bullish lower shadow and small real body close to the day’s high, suggesting potential upward momentum.” He identified 24,677 and 25,000 as immediate support and resistance levels, respectively.

    In the Sensex pack, top losers included Infosys, Tech Mahindra, HCL Tech, Bajaj Finance, IndusInd Bank, Bharti Airtel, Titan, and Hindustan Unilever. On the gaining side were Adani Ports, Eicher Motors, Maruti Suzuki, and Sun Pharma.

    Weakness persisted across Asian markets, with indices in Hong Kong, Bangkok, Seoul, China, and Japan trading in the red.

    Meanwhile, US markets closed higher in the previous session. The Dow Jones added 117.03 points to settle at 42,215.73, the S&P 500 rose by 23.62 points to 5,912.17, and the Nasdaq gained 74.93 points to close at 19,175.87.

    Dr. V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services, highlighted a key reason for the market’s range-bound nature. “India’s macroeconomic fundamentals are strong and improving, but this is not yet being reflected in corporate earnings,” he said.

    On the institutional front, FIIs were net buyers, purchasing equities worth ₹884.03 crore on May 29. DIIs were also strong buyers, investing ₹4,286.50 crore.

    -IANS

  • US proposes 60-day ceasefire for Gaza, plan shows

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A U.S. plan for Gaza seen by Reuters on Friday proposes a 60-day ceasefire and the release of 28 Israeli hostages alive and dead in the first week and the release of 125 Palestinian prisoners sentenced to life and the remains of 180 dead Palestinians.

    The plan, which says it is guaranteed by U.S. President Donald Trump and mediators Egypt and Qatar, includes sending aid to Gaza as soon as Hamas signs off on the ceasefire agreement.

    The plan stipulates that Hamas will release the last 30 hostages once a permanent ceasefire is in place.

    The White House said on Thursday that Israel has agreed to the U.S. ceasefire proposal.

    The Palestinian militant group Hamas told media it was reviewing the plan and will respond on Friday or Saturday.

    Deep differences between Hamas and Israel have stymied previous attempts to restore a ceasefire that broke down in March.

    Israel has insisted that Hamas disarm completely and be dismantled as a military and governing force and that all 58 hostages still held in Gaza must be returned before it will agree to end the war.

    Hamas has rejected the demand to give up its weapons and says Israel must pull its troops out of Gaza and commit to ending the war.

    Israel launched its campaign in Gaza in response to the devastating Hamas attack in southern Israel on October 7, 2023, that killed some 1,200 people and saw 251 Israelis taken hostage into Gaza, according to Israeli tallies.

    The subsequent Israeli military campaign has killed more than 54,000 Palestinians, Gaza health officials say, and left the enclave in ruins.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Check it out: Auckland Council Libraries trial board game lending

    Source: Auckland Council

    Auckland Council Libraries have announced a new offering – board games lending, giving Aucklanders the opportunity to borrow popular tabletop games like Catan and Ticket To Ride: Europe to ramp up their game night.

    Launched as a trial across 10 library branches, the board game lending programme gives Aucklanders the opportunity to connect, play and learn together, with modern strategy games that appeal to a wide range of adults.

    Councillor Julie Fairey, deputy chair of the Community Committee, says the new initiative shows how libraries are evolving to meet our community’s changing needs.

    “Our libraries are so much more than just books – they’re places for fun and connection, and they are always looking for new ways to serve Aucklanders,” says Councillor Fairey.

    “My whānau loves board games and we will definitely be accessing this new collection now available through our public libraries.  Often these games are quite expensive to buy and this is a way people can play a wide range of games and find new favourites to enjoy.”

    The popular titles, which include games such as Exploding Kittens and Wingspan are available for borrowing by any library card holder aged 18+ for a two-week loan.

    While the games are on display at 10 sites, customers can place holds, collect and return the board games from any of our 56 libraries across Tāmaki Makaurau.

    Auckland Council’s Head of Library and Learning Services, Catherine Leonard, says the new offering is an exciting way to welcome more Aucklanders into libraries.

    “International trends show board games are booming, especially among 20–30-year-olds – a group we don’t see as often in our libraries,” says Ms Leonard.

    “Board games are a fantastic tool for learning, collaboration and fun – but above all, they bring people together. We’d love to see more Aucklanders heading into our libraries and taking home a sought-after title to level up their next game night.”

    This initiative aligns with the Belonging and Participation aspect of the Auckland Plan by increasing educational achievement, lifelong learning and training.

    As with books, there are no late fees for board games, and borrowers won’t be charged for the occasional missing piece — but if a game is returned unplayable, a replacement fee will apply.

    The trial will run for 12 months with a view to rolling it out to more libraries and adding more board games in the future.

    To find out more about the board game collection and reserve a game, go to Auckland Council Libraries website.

    Love this initiative and want the best for Auckland’s future? Stand for council in Auckland’s Local Elections 2025. Nominations open 4 July 2025 and close 1 August 2025, midday. If you’d like to learn more about what’s involved in standing, visit Vote Auckland.

    Available board games:

    • 7 Wonders: Duel 
    • Betrayal at House on the Hill
    • Catan
    • Codenames: Pictures
    • Exploding Kittens
    • Root
    • Ticket to Ride: Europ
    • The Resistance: Avalo
    • Tokaido
    • Wingspan (Oceania Expansion)

    Participating libraries:

    North/West Region

     

    Glenfield Library

    East Coast Bays Library

    Waitākere Central |
    Te Kōpua

    Central/East Region

     

    Central City Library

    Mt Albert Library

    Onehunga Library

    Botany Library
     

    South Region

     

    Māngere Bridge Library

    Manurewa Library

    Papatoetoe Library

     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Hong Kong Filmography Volume IX” now on sale (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    “Hong Kong Filmography Volume IX” now on sale  
         The Hong Kong Filmography series aims at outlining the history of Hong Kong cinema and offering readers a valuable resource for further research by providing information of Hong Kong films, including genres, release dates, production companies, casts and crews, synopses, filmmakers’ notes, film stills and more. The Hong Kong Filmography series, from Volume I (revised edition) to Volume VIII, covers over 7,000 films produced between 1914 and 1979. The newly released Volume IX documents 339 Hong Kong films from 1980 to 1982, including 328 fiction films and 11 documentaries.
     
         The 1980s was a golden era for Hong Kong films. In the early part of the decade, local films outperformed foreign ones at the box office. Well-developed cinema circuits competed fiercely with one another, while Shaw Brothers, Golden Harvest and Cinema City stood out as the three major film production companies. In addition, an increase in the volume of film productions, the numerous acclaimed works of the emerging new wave directors, and the establishment of the Hong Kong Film Awards were all testaments to the vibrancy of the local film industry during this period.
     
         Hong Kong Filmography Volume IX is printed in traditional Chinese, with 240 pages including six full-colour pages. It is priced at $280 and now available at the HKFA box office. From now until July 31, during the period of the Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival 2025, a 10 per cent discount is available for a purchase of two or more copies of the Hong Kong Filmography series at the HKFA box office while stocks last. For more details on the publication and sales outlets, please visit: https://www.filmarchive.gov.hk/en/web/hkfa/rp-hk-filmography-series.html 
         This year, the LCSD presents the third Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival, themed “More Than Joy”. For more information, please visit     www.pcf.gov.hk/enIssued at HKT 12:55

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Super funds paying personal financial advice fees

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    We’ve released our Practical Compliance Guide (PCG) that addresses the amendments made to the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 (ITAA 1997) under Schedule 1 of the Treasury Laws Amendment (Delivering Better Financial Outcomes and Other Measures) Act 2024.

    The PCG sets out a methodology that super funds can use to determine the extent to which payments of financial advice fees satisfy paragraph (d) of table item 5 of subsection 295-490(1) of the ITAA 1997. This section of the guidance doesn’t apply to SMSFs.

    The PCG also outlines our compliance approach that applies to all super funds, including SMSFs, in relation to a super fund’s obligation to withhold from payments for personal financial advice fees in the income years prior to 1 July 2019.

    To read the PCG, visit PCG 2025/1.

    Keep up to date

    We have tailored communication channels for medium, large and multinational businesses, to keep you up to date with updates and changes you need to know.

    Read more articles in our online Business bulletins newsroom.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: West Coast warrants

    Source: New Zealand Police

    West Coast Police have executed 10 search warrants across the Westport and Greymouth area this week, in relation to organised crime in the wider region.

    West Coast staff worked alongside colleagues from the Te Waipounamu Gang Distribution Unit (GDU) and the Tasman District Organised Crime Unit (TDOCU).

    While undertaking the warrants Police located :
    – More than a kilo of cannabis
    – A vehicle sought in relation to a hit and run crash
    – A pistol
    – An illegal bar operating.

    Two men appeared at Greymouth District Court on Wednesday the 28th May charged with Assaults police and Possession of cannabis for supply, to further appear on the 18th June.

    Two more men will appear at Greymouth District Court on Wednesday the 4th June, facing charges of Unlawful possession of a firearm and Operating a bar without a licence.

    Police have gained further information from the execution of these warrants and further arrests have not been ruled out.

    West Coast Area Commander, Inspector Hamish Chapman says, “The activities this week demonstrate the commitment Police has to drive down and disrupt organised and gang related crime and the harm it has on our communities.”

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: This wasn’t part of the plan, but we’re rolling with it.

    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=8d9-1nAgGrE

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Battle of the Bulge: How One Hero Turned the Tide of WWII

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    One man. One mission. Total transformation.

    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: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
    #USArmy #Soldiers #Military #Army #WWII

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0ArxOICtTQ

    MIL OSI Video –

  • Without Musk, DOGE likely to fizzle out, says ex-staffer

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Without billionaire Elon Musk in the Trump administration, his cost-cutting Department of Government Efficiency project is likely to sputter out, a former DOGE staffer said in his first interview since leaving the team.

    Tesla CEO Musk announced on Wednesday evening that he was ending his time as a special government employee but vowed that DOGE would continue without him. Administration media representatives also said in statements to Reuters that DOGE would continue its work.

    DOGE has overseen job cuts at nearly every federal agency as part of U.S. President Donald Trump’s attempts to shake up the federal bureaucracy.

    However, software engineer Sahil Lavingia, who spent almost two months working for the group of pro-Musk technologists, said he expects DOGE to quickly “fizzle out.”

    “It’ll just die a whimper,” Lavingia, who was fired from DOGE earlier this month, told Reuters. “So much of the appeal and allure was Elon.” He said he expected DOGE staffers to “just stop showing up to work. It’s like kids joining a startup that will go out of business in four months.”

    That would cap a remarkable undoing for DOGE, which Musk initially vowed would cut $2 trillion in federal spending. Instead, DOGE estimates its efforts have saved around $175 billion so far and the group’s tallies have been riddled with errors.

    “DOGE is integral to the federal government’s operations, and its mission, as established by the President’s executive order, will continue under the direction of agency and department heads in the Trump administration,” White House spokesperson Harrison Fields said.

    Lavingia, the 32-year-old founder and CEO of creator platform Gumroad, said he was recruited by DOGE through a personal contact and joined the team in March.

    While he said he was proud of certain achievements at the Department of Veterans Affairs, including modernizing the agency’s internal artificial-intelligence chatbot, he said he was often at a loss about what work he was expected to do.

    “I got dropped into the VA with an HP laptop. What are we supposed to do? What is the road map?” Lavingia said he asked, to no avail. “I felt like I was being pranked.”

    Veterans Affairs press secretary Pete Kasperowicz said in a statement to Reuters: “VA looks forward to continuing to work with its DOGE liaisons to help the department improve its performance, customer service, and convenience to Veterans.”

    Lavingia said Steve Davis, the president of Musk’s tunneling enterprise the Boring Company, ran day-to-day operations while Turkish-born venture capitalist Baris Akis helped with DOGE recruitment and DOGE logistics.

    When instructions did come through, they were usually communicated through phone calls or small chats on the encrypted Signal messaging app that would typically auto-delete in one day, Lavingia said.

    Lavingia said instructions included moving faster to increase mass layoffs at the VA, the federal government’s second-largest agency.

    The only time he met Musk, Lavingia said, was at an all-hands meeting in March with what he estimated was between 40 and 60 fellow DOGE staffers.

    Lavingia said he asked to open-source, or make freely available, some of his computer code, which Musk approved.

    He then asked if they could livestream DOGE meetings to increase transparency.

    “Elon said: ‘That’s a great idea. We’ll do it next week.’ He then caught himself and said: ‘Maybe we pre-record it because of security risks.’”

    Lavingia said he never heard back.

    In early May, after he spoke to media outlet Fast Company about working at DOGE, Lavingia said his computer access was revoked in what amounted to a firing. He said Musk and team leaders never explicitly told him he should not talk to journalists.

    “My DOGE days were over,” Lavingia wrote in a blog about his experience.

    (Reuters)

  • Trump aims to exceed first term’s weapons sales to Taiwan, officials say

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The United States plans to ramp up weapons sales to Taipei to a level exceeding President Donald Trump’s first term as part of an effort to deter China as it intensifies military pressure on the democratic island, according to two U.S. officials.

    If U.S. arms sales to Taiwan do accelerate, it could ease worries about the extent of Trump’s commitment to the island. It would also add new friction to the tense U.S.-China relationship.

    The U.S. officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said they expect U.S. approvals for weapons sales to Taipei over the next four years to surpass those in Trump’s first term, with one of the officials saying arms sales notifications to Taiwan could “easily exceed” that earlier period.

    They also said the United States is pressing members of Taiwan’s opposition parties not to oppose the government’s efforts to increase defense spending to 3% of the island’s budget.

    The first Trump administration approved sales of approximately $18.3 billion worth of weapons to Taiwan, compared with around $8.4 billion during Joe Biden’s term, according to Reuters calculations.

    The United States is Taiwan’s most important international backer and arms supplier despite the lack of formal diplomatic ties between Washington and Taipei.

    Even so, many in Taiwan, which China claims as its own, worry that Trump may not be as committed to the island as past U.S. presidents.

    On the election campaign trail, Trump suggested Taiwan should pay to be protected and also accused the island of stealing American semiconductor business, causing alarm in Taipei.

    China has vowed to “reunify” with the separately governed island, by force if necessary. Taiwan’s government rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims, saying only the island’s people can decide their future.

    The U.S. officials said administration officials and Trump himself were committed to “enhancing hard deterrence” for Taiwan.

    “That’s where the president is. That’s where all of us are,” one U.S. official said, adding that they were working closely with Taiwan on an arms procurement package to be rolled out when Taiwan secured domestic funding.

    Taiwan’s Presidential Office told Reuters the government is determined to strengthen its self-defense capabilities and pointed to its proposals to increase defense spending.

    “Taiwan aims to enhance military deterrence while continuing to deepen its security cooperation with the United States,” Presidential Office spokesperson Wen Lii said.

    Taiwan’s defense ministry declined to comment on any new arms sales, but reiterated previous remarks by the island’s defense minister, Wellington Koo, about the importance of “solidarity and cooperation of democratic allies.”

    -Reuters

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China urges Russia, Ukraine to maintain momentum in peace talks

    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

    UNITED NATIONS, May 29 (Xinhua) — China’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations Geng Shuang on Thursday called on Russia and Ukraine to maintain the momentum of peace talks.

    Russia and Ukraine, which recently held direct talks in Istanbul and agreed to exchange prisoners, will soon hold a second round of direct talks. China welcomes these positive developments and supports all efforts to achieve peace, he said.

    At the same time, fighting shows no sign of stopping and the number of civilian casualties continues to rise, showing that the Ukrainian crisis involves complex dynamics and cannot be resolved overnight, he told the Security Council.

    The parties to the conflict must demonstrate political will, maintain the momentum of peace talks, and address the root causes of the crisis through dialogue and consultation so as to eventually achieve a political settlement, Geng Shuang said.

    According to him, the parties to the conflict must faithfully comply with international humanitarian law and, under all circumstances, refrain from attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure.

    He noted that the international community, especially key stakeholders, should facilitate peace talks to advance a political solution to the crisis.

    China’s position on the Ukrainian issue is consistent and clear. According to him, since the beginning of the crisis, China has called for dialogue, negotiations and a political settlement. China maintains contacts with both Russia and Ukraine and consistently works to promote peace talks.

    China stands ready to play a constructive role in achieving genuine peace together with the Global South and the broader international community, Geng Shuang said. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: UN extends mandate to inspect ships suspected of violating Libya arms embargo

    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

    UNITED NATIONS, May 29 (Xinhua) — The Security Council on Thursday adopted a resolution extending the authority of U.N. member states to inspect ships suspected of violating the arms embargo on Libya.

    Resolution 2780 extends for six months the authorization for UN Member States, acting nationally or through regional organizations, to inspect vessels on the high seas en route to or from Libya if they have reasonable grounds to believe that those vessels are transporting arms or related material in violation of the arms embargo imposed by the Security Council.

    The UN Secretary-General will submit to the Security Council a report on its implementation within five months of the adoption of this resolution.

    Resolution 2780 was adopted with 13 votes in favor. Russia and China abstained.

    Russian and Chinese officials have questioned the effectiveness of the EU’s Operation IRINI, the only regional exercise to inspect ships under authorization, and the manner in which intercepted items are disposed of.

    The Security Council imposed sanctions, including an arms embargo, on Libya in 2011 following political upheaval that toppled former leader Muammar Gaddafi. In June 2016, the council adopted Resolution 2292, authorizing inspections of vessels on the high seas to enforce the arms embargo. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: McClay to champion NZ’s trade interests at OECD and in Brussels

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay will travel to Europe this weekend to advance New Zealand’s trade and investment interests 

    Minister McClay will visit Switzerland, Paris and Brussels for high level ministerial and business meetings.  

    In Switzerland he will attend the first in person meeting of a new pro-trade group with ministers from UAE, Singapore and Switzerland where he will focus on removing trade barriers and the promotion of paperless trade. 

    In Paris he will attend the annual OECD Trade Ministers, a CPTPP ministers discussion, ACCTs Ministers meeting, and a WTO Mini Ministerial meeting. He will also hold discussions with ministers from Canada, China, India, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, USA.

    He will also undertake a bilateral French programme and meet the French Minister responsible for Trade.

    In Brussels Mr McClay will hold talks with EU Commissioner for Trade, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, and EU Vice President responsible for sustainability.  He will also speak at an event to mark the first year of the NZ EU FTA. 

    “One in four Kiwi jobs depend on Trade, and strong trade relationships mean more opportunities for New Zealander.

    The Government’s is committed to the ambitious goal of doubling exports by value in the next ten years to deliver higher paying jobs for all New Zealanders,” Mr McClay says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • Judge blocks Trump ban on Harvard’s international students

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A federal judge said on Thursday she would extend an order blocking President Donald Trump’s administration from immediately revoking Harvard University’s ability to enroll international students, a victory for the Ivy League school that is entangled in multiple battles with the administration.

    U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs in Boston announced her intention to issue a preliminary injunction, six days after she first granted Harvard a temporary order blocking the Trump administration’s move.

    As the court hearing unfolded on Thursday morning, thousands of Harvard students were receiving their degrees at the school’s commencement ceremony on campus about 5 miles (8 km) away.

    University President Alan Garber, who received a standing ovation, welcomed graduating students “from down the street, across the country and around the world,” drawing applause for the last words.

    “Around the world – just as it should be,” he added.

    The Trump administration has launched a multifront attack on the nation’s oldest and wealthiest university, freezing billions of dollars in grants and other funding, proposing to end its tax-exempt status and opening an investigation into whether it discriminated against white, Asian, male or straight employees or job applicants.

    Revoking Harvard’s ability to enroll international students would be damaging, the school says. More than a quarter of the student body is international; nearly 60% of the graduate students at the prestigious Harvard Kennedy School hail from other countries.

    The attack on Harvard is part of the administration’s broader effort to pressure higher education institutions to align with its policy agenda.

    On Wednesday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the administration would start “aggressively” revoking visas issued to Chinese students attending U.S. schools, including those with ties to the Chinese Communist Party and those studying in critical fields, which he did not specify.

    More than 275,000 Chinese students are enrolled in hundreds of U.S. colleges, providing a major source of revenue for the schools and a crucial pipeline of talent for U.S. technology companies. The decision prompted despair and frustration among students who have offers to attend next year.

    Prior to Rubio’s announcement, the offensive against U.S. colleges had largely been confined to Ivy League schools such as Harvard, Columbia and the University of Pennsylvania, which it has accused of left-wing bias and antisemitism.

    Lynn Pasquerella, president of the advocacy group American Association of Colleges and Universities, said the Trump administration’s targeting of international students would have negative consequences for schools and the U.S.

    “Chinese students, in particular, now that they’re being faced with hyper-scrutiny, are looking elsewhere,” she said. “That is a huge loss for us. It’s a brain drain.”

    JUDGE SKEPTICAL

    The court hearing before Burroughs took place shortly after the administration softened its stance in an apparent effort to refute Harvard’s legal arguments in advance.

    Late Wednesday night, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security sent a notice to Harvard saying it would now give the university 30 days to submit evidence contesting the administration’s plan to revoke Harvard’s right to enroll non-U.S. students.

    The notice signaled a change in course for DHS, which had said last week that the revocation was effective immediately. In its lawsuit challenging the move, Harvard argued that DHS had violated federal administrative procedure.

    During the court hearing, U.S. Department of Justice attorney Tiberius Davis argued there was now no need for a court order blocking the administration’s actions, since Harvard could challenge them via an administrative process.

    But Burroughs, an appointee of Democratic former President Barack Obama, said she believed a broad preliminary injunction protecting Harvard and students was necessary while that process played out.

    She expressed skepticism that Harvard’s fate would be any different at its conclusion, saying, “Aren’t we still going to end up back here at the same place?”

    She also questioned whether the administration had fully complied with her temporary restraining order, pointing to a declaration Harvard submitted on Wednesday that said visas for incoming students had been recently revoked.

    Burroughs said the temporary order would remain in effect while lawyers for both sides negotiate over the terms of the injunction.

    Harvard has called DHS’s action part of an “unprecedented and retaliatory attack on academic freedom.” The school is pursuing a separate lawsuit challenging the administration’s decision to terminate nearly $3 billion in federal research funding.

    Harvard argues the Trump administration is retaliating against it for refusing to accede to its demands to control the school’s governance, curriculum and the ideology of its faculty and students.

    In announcing the initial decision to revoke Harvard’s certification, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, without providing evidence, accused the university of “fostering violence, antisemitism, and coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party.”

    She accused the school of refusing to comply with wide-ranging requests for information on its student visa holders, including whether they engaged in any activity that was illegal, violent or subjected them to discipline.

    The department’s move would prevent Harvard from enrolling new international students and require existing ones to transfer to other schools or lose their legal status.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU football players win silver at Universiade

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    The Zarya stadium hosted the final football games, which determined the top three winners of the 48th Universiade among students of higher educational institutions of the Novosibirsk Region. The NSU team achieved unprecedented success – having won against the NSTU team, our guys took second place!

    Silver team composition: Ruslan Abdulatypov, MMF Fedor Brykin, FIT Maxim Ermolaev, FIT Artemy Ilyichev, GGF Artem Kadimyan, MMF Mikhail Korotkov, FIT Dmitry Kravchuk, FIT Lev Marus, EF Danil Merzaev, EF Sergey Netesov, FIT Nikita Neupokoev, MMF Saveliy Nekhoroshev, IFP Ni Yuxian, Yaroslav Peshkov, EF Sergey Polyakov, MMF Nikita Pyatakov, IFP Alexander Svetlichny, GGF Mikhail Sukhanov, IIR Arseniy Tihanchik, IFP Stepan Tolokolnikov, EF Gleb Fedotov, EF Dmitry Kharin, EF Stepan Yurov, EF Yan Deshuai

    We congratulate our football players and their coach Sergey Mezentsev on the excellent completion of the final stage of the Universiade!

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: NHC vice-minister visits Hong Kong, Macao

    Source: People’s Republic of China Ministry of Health

    Cao Xuetao, vice-minister of the National Health Commission (NHC), led a delegation to the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions from May 25 to 28.

    During his stay in Hong Kong, Cao addressed the opening ceremonies of the 2025 Hospital Authority Convention and the Asia Summit on Global Health. In his speeches, he focused on latest developments and priorities for the health sector on the Chinese mainland as well as achievements in participating in global health governance. He said he hoped to deepen practical cooperation between the mainland and Hong Kong in professional fields, and promote scientific and technological innovation and the development of the health industry so as to jointly build a Healthy China and address global health challenges. The delegation also visited the State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology and the State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease at the Chinese University of Hong Kong.

    In Macao, Cao met with Sam Hou-fai, chief executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region, and O Lam, secretary for social affairs and culture of Macao. Discussions focused on advancing practical health cooperation projects between the mainland and Macao, supporting the development of Macao’s big health industry and jointly participating in global health governance. Cao also conducted on-site research on the operations of the Macao Medical Center of Peking Union Medical College Hospital, an islands healthcare complex, acknowledging its current achievements and offering suggestions for future development.

    MIL OSI China News –