Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Expands Its Premium Presence With First Experience Store In Indore’s City Center

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, has inaugurated its first retail experience store in City Center on MG Road in Indore, further strengthening its premium retail presence across the country.
     
    The store offers an immersive experience to customers with dedicated zones featuring the latest smartphones, tablets, laptops and SmartThings. Here, they can have a first-hand experience of how Samsung’s connected devices can transform their lifestyle into smarter and more convenient experiences.
     
    Spread across 1000 square feet, the new store is designed to be a one-stop solution for consumers to experience Samsung’s cutting-edge innovation, connected ecosystem, and premium service centre all under one roof.
     
    Strategically located in City Center, a vibrant educational hub in Indore known for its bustling youth demographic and growing tech adoption, the store aims to deliver emerging technologies and immersive technology experiences to next-gen consumers
     
    As part of its commitment to customer satisfaction and digital upskilling, this new store will also witness Samsung’s signature ‘Learn @ Samsung’ initiative, following its success across other stores in India. This initiative will offer a range of workshops aimed at empowering consumers, particularly millennials and Gen Z with knowledge and skills to utilize cutting-edge technology. The sessions will cover themes such as AI-enabled photography, productivity, creativity and doodling, providing hands-on experiences with Galaxy devices to enhance user engagement.
     
    “The launch of our first premium experience store in Indore is yet another significant milestone in Samsung’s journey. This expansion is part of Samsung’s broader mission to democratize access to innovation by bringing premium offerings to all. This new store reflects our larger commitment to expanding our premium retail presence and delivering a truly one-stop solution that unites innovation, engagement, and customer satisfaction under one roof,” said a Samsung India spokesperson.
     
    To celebrate the launch, customers visiting the store can avail:

    Free 30+ subscriptions across leading OTT, music, wellness, and infotainment platforms.
    Exclusive discounts on 40+ brand gift cards and 25+ top deals from premium brands.
    Buy 1 Get 1 Free buffet deals across 100+ premium restaurants across India.
    Paytm First membership rewards, special travel savings on flights, and discounts at 14,000+ restaurants nationwide.

     
    In addition, the store features Samsung Store+, an intuitive digital platform that allows in-store shoppers to access detailed product information and opt for home delivery. A dedicated service centre has also been integrated within the store premises to further boost post-purchase support.
     
     
     

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-Evening Report: Asia Pacific Report editor honoured for contribution to Pacific journalism

    Pacific Media Watch

    Asia Pacific Report editor David Robie was honoured with Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) at the weekend by the Governor-General, Dame Cindy Kiro, in an investiture ceremony at Government House Tāmaki Makaurau.

    He was one of eight recipients for various honours, which included Joycelyn Armstrong, who was presented with Companion of the King’s Service Order (KSO) for services to interfaith communities.

    Dr Robie’s award, which came in the King’s Birthday Honours in 2024 but was presented on Saturday, was for “services to journalism and Asia-Pacific media education”.

    His citation reads:

    Dr David Robie has contributed to journalism in New Zealand and the Asia-Pacific region for more than 50 years.

    Dr Robie began his career with The Dominion in 1965 and worked as an international journalist and correspondent for agencies from Johannesburg to Paris. He has won several journalism awards, including the 1985 Media Peace Prize for his coverage of the Rainbow Warrior bombing.

    He was Head of Journalism at the University of Papua New Guinea from 1993 to 1997 and the University of the South Pacific in Suva from 1998 to 2002. He founded the Pacific Media Centre in 2007 while professor of journalism and communications at Auckland University of Technology.

    He developed four award-winning community publications as student training outlets. He pioneered special internships for Pacific students in partnership with media and the University of the South Pacific. He has organised scholarships with the Asia New Zealand Foundation for student journalists to China, Indonesia and the Philippines.

    He was founding editor of Pacific Journalism Review journal in 1994 and in 1996 he established the Pacific Media Watch, working as convenor with students to campaign for media freedom in the Pacific.

    He has authored 10 books on Asia-Pacific media and politics. Dr Robie co-founded and is deputy chair of the Asia Pacific Media Network/Te Koakoa NGO.


    The investiture ceremony on 24 May 2025.      Video: Office of the Governor-General  

    In an interview with Global Voices last year, Dr Robie praised the support from colleagues and students and said:

    “There should be more international reporting about the “hidden stories” of the Pacific such as the unresolved decolonisation issues — Kanaky New Caledonia, “French” Polynesia (Mā’ohi Nui), both from France; and West Papua from Indonesia.

    “West Papua, in particular, is virtually ignored by Western media in spite of the ongoing serious human rights violations. This is unconscionable.”

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The government has expanded the areas of activity for using the funds of the universal service reserve.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    Resolution of May 23, 2025 No. 715

    Document

    Resolution of May 23, 2025 No. 715

    The funds of the universal service reserve, which is formed in the federal budget by means of deductions from part of the revenue by communication operators, can be used to create fiber-optic communication lines to individual settlements. The decree changing the rules for using the funds of the universal service reserve has been signed.

    The list of populated areas where it is planned to create fiber-optic lines will be determined by the Government in the near future.

    In addition, the Universal Service Reserve funds can be used to facilitate the development and implementation of advanced communications technologies and the improvement of equipment required for this purpose.

    The rules for using the universal service reserve funds were approved by the Government in 2005. Currently, these funds are used to provide universal communication services and maintain a database of transferred subscriber numbers.

    The signed resolution is necessary for the implementation of new provisions of the federal laws “On Advertising” and “On Communications”. The relevant amendments to them were adopted in December 2024.

    The signed document introduces changes toGovernment Resolution of April 21, 2005 No. 243.

    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 Economics: Huawei ICT Competition 2024–2025: AI Empowers Education and Talent Growth

    Source: Huawei

    Headline: Huawei ICT Competition 2024–2025: AI Empowers Education and Talent Growth

    [Shenzhen, China, May 26, 2025] On May 24, the Closing & Awards Ceremony of the Huawei ICT Competition 2024–2025 Global Final took place in Shenzhen. In its 9th edition, the event has reached a record-breaking scale, attracting over 210,000 students and instructors from more than 2,000 colleges and universities in over 100 countries and regions. Following national and regional competitions, 179 teams from 48 countries and regions made it to the Global Final.
    Through intense competition across three major tracks (Practice, Innovation, and Programming), top honors were awarded to 18 outstanding teams from 9 countries: Algeria, Brazil, China, Morocco, Nigeria, Philippines, Serbia, Singapore, and Tanzania.
    To recognize outstanding contributions beyond technical excellence, the competition also presented special honors. The Women in Tech Award was granted to four all-female teams from Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Germany, and Kenya. The Green Development Award went to a team from Ghana. The Most Valuable Instructor Award recognized 18 distinguished instructors from 10 countries – Algeria, Bangladesh, Brazil, China, Egypt, Hungary, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, and Türkiye – for their contributions to ICT education.

    Huawei ICT Competition 2024–2025 Global Final Closing & Awards Ceremony

    In his opening speech, Ritchie Peng, Director of the ICT Strategy & Business Development Dept at Huawei, said: “To achieve the goal of learning through competition and inspiring innovation through competition, we have continuously evolved the design of competition topics. The Practice Competition aligns with our vision for an Intelligent World 2030 and encourages students to master cloud computing, big data, and AI to drive social progress. The Innovation Competition focuses on green development and digital inclusion, motivating participants to solve real-world challenges in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and education through ICT.”

    Ritchie Peng Delivering the Opening Speech at the Closing & Awards Ceremony

    As digital transformation accelerates globally, demand for skilled professionals in fields such as AI, big data, and cybersecurity continues to grow. However, the shortage of talent in these critical areas is becoming increasingly evident. To help tackle this challenge, the Huawei ICT Competition features multiple tracks — notably Practice, Innovation, and Programming — alongside initiatives such as industry-academia collaboration and tailored curriculum development. These efforts aim to equip students with in-demand skills and foster the next-generation tech talent who will stand out in an increasingly intelligent and digital world.
    During this year’s competition, Huawei also hosted the AI Accelerating Education Transformation Summit, where experts explored the pivotal role of AI in smart education. In addition, Huawei officially announced the AI Capability of the Huawei ICT Academy Intelligent Platform, making it easier and more efficient for educators and students to use. This marks another step forward in advancing educational digitalization.
    For more details about the Huawei ICT Competition, visit us at https://www.huawei.com/minisite/ict-competition-2024-2025-global/en/index.html.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Road closed: Number 2 Line, Okoia

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Number 2 Line near Okoia, Whanganui, is closed after a crash.

    At around 7pm emergency services received reports of the crash east of Whanganui, between Portal Street and Hikuawa Road.

    The Serious Crash Unit is attending, and diversions are being put in place.

    Motorists are asked to avoid the area.

    Information on the crash will be updated proactively.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Taiwan sets up think tank to promote peaceful reunification of motherland

    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

    TAIPEI, May 26 (Xinhua) — A new think tank, Sanhe, launched in Taiwan on Sunday to promote peaceful reunification of the motherland and dispel myths about cross-Straits relations in the region.

    According to its founders, the Sanhe Think Tank will focus on promoting rapprochement between people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait and expanding peaceful exchanges and cooperation.

    The initiative to establish the center was put forward by the New Taiwan Party (NTP), with the participation of the Taiwan Labor Party and other political factions on the island, as well as young people from various walks of life.

    At the first seminar of the new center, NPT Chairman Wu Chengdian emphasized that in the 32 years of the party’s existence, its mission has remained unchanged – striving for the peaceful reunification of the motherland.

    “The Sanhe Think Tank will become a legal platform for Taiwanese people to openly express their desire for national reunification,” Wu Chengdian said.

    At the event, the center released its first white paper on strategic thinking on cross-strait relations. The four-chapter document explores ways to overcome the restrictions imposed by the ruling Democratic Progressive Party and “codes” for peace across the Taiwan Strait.

    “This is just the beginning,” said NPT Vice Chairman Li Shengfeng, expressing hope that the seminar will become a permanent platform for pooling collective wisdom for the sake of Taiwan’s future and the cause of peaceful reunification. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Protect our trees, protect our City

    Source: South Australia Police

    A free Polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB) information session is being held at the City of Wanneroo’s Civic Centre on Saturday 14 June.

    Join us to discover more about the PSHB, the threat it poses to our urban canopy and how you can help stop the spread of this invasive pest.

    First detected in Perth in 2021, the tiny wood-boring beetle has been detected in trees across Perth, with a quarantine notice quickly put in place to support the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s (DPIRD) response.

    The City is working closely with DPIRD to prevent the spread of the PSHB and encourages the community to use the MyPestGuide app to report suspected sightings.

    The City of Wanneroo currently sits in Zone B of the Quarantine Area. This means residents:

    • cannot move untreated or unseasoned wood outside the Quarantine Area, unless chipped to pieces that are 2.5 cm or less in diameter,
    • cannot move plant materials, including living plants, that are greater than 2cm in diameter outside the Quarantine Area,
    • must ensure any machinery used to handle green waste is cleaned before it can be moved outside the Quarantine Area, can move wood or plant materials, including living plants, into Zone A.

    Bookings are essential, register here.

    To learn more about the PSHB and how you can help prevent its spread, visit our PSHB webpage.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Nelson short-changed by hospital downgrade

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    National’s cuts to Nelson’s Hospital rebuild will leave the community with only half the number of new beds than the rebuild Labour planned.

    “I’m worried that National’s downgraded plan won’t meet the needs of patients and we’ll soon be back where we started, with the hospital needing to be upgraded in a few years,” Labour health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall said.

    While in Government, Labour announced $73 million for the first tranche of a major redevelopment of Nelson Hospital, to progress plans for an acute services and in-patient building with 255 beds, eight theatres and a larger emergency department. This would amount to an increase of 92 beds.

    “This Government is downgrading what the community needs by only building 41 new overnight and surgical beds and removing five beds from other units.

    “They’re spending half the money for half the hospital.

    “What other corners will have to be cut to build Nelson Hospital and others around the country, when there is only $1 billion net new money for health capital projects in the Budget?

    “That money is not enough to ensure our hospitals are fit for purpose for a growing and ageing population. We will see more corners cut for builds in Nelson and across the country, leaving future generations to pick up the tab,” Ayesha Verrall said.


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    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Bugs on David Seymour’s school lunch menu

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The latest shocker to come out of David Seymour’s school lunches is an insect being found in a student’s meal.

    “Just when we thought David Seymour’s school lunches couldn’t get any worse – he surprises us with a new low,” Labour’s education spokesperson Willow-Jean Prime said.

    “First it was exploding lunches, then frozen lunches, then it was plastic and glass, now it’s a bug. This is an insult to our students. Our children deserve better than this.

    “David Seymour promised all issues would be fixed come start of Term 2, but they’re not.

    “New Zealand Food Safety must be thorough in its investigation into this as finding an insect in a school lunch is an appalling further drop in standards.

    “If David Seymour’s shocking track record on school lunches is anything to go by, once he becomes Deputy Prime Minister we’re in for some more nasty surprises,” Willow-Jean Prime said.


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    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Repair, Reuse, Restyle : Sustainable fashion workshops coming to Wanneroo

    Source: South Australia Police

    The City is hosting its first Sustainable Fashion Fiesta – a series of workshops and events – from Friday 13 June to Monday 30 June.

    You can learn how to recycle old textiles into new uses, basic sewing or attend a clothes swap events.

    With sustainability at its core, the new event aims to help balance the relationship between urban growth and the environment.

    Event dates and times

    Making New Meaning from Old Textiles – three-part series at the Wanneroo Library

    Led by Inglewood-based artist, Louise Wells, this workshop encourages participants to bring along precious fabric or clothing to remodel and repurpose. Using different stitches, machine sewing and your own imagination, you will create a small, unique artwork.

    Louise has a diverse art practice, ranging from small hand stitched works to large-scale outdoor ephemeral sculptures.

    12pm to 4pm, Sunday 15 June, Saturday 21 and Saturday 28 June

    Clothes swap event at Clarkson Library

    Bring up to 10 gently used clothing items, accessories or shoes and trade them for something new-to-you.

    10am to 2pm, Monday 16 June, featuring an alteration station with Angela from ‘Sew Impressed’ from 11am to 2pm.

    10am to 2pm, Wednesday 18 June, featuring Loraine Martin from the ‘The Feelgood Fashionista’ from 12pm to 1pm.

    Renew and repurpose textile sewing workshops at Clarkson Library

    Join us for a fun a creative series of upcycled art and craft classes for ages 16 and above.

    In these two sessions, supported by members of our Waste Education team, we will use sewing machines to create coasters (Tuesday) and placemats out of repurposed fabric (Thursday). Add your own personal touch to your table to next time  you host your family and friends.

    10am to 11.30am and 1pm to 2.30pm, Tuesday 17 June.
    10am to 11.30am and 1pm to 2.30pm, Thursday 19 June.

    Clothes swap event at the Wanneroo Library

    Looking to refresh your wardrobe while connecting with your community? Join our Care to Rewear Clothes Swap for a fun and sustainable way to update your style!

    Bring up to 10 gently used clothing items, accessories or shoes and trade them for something new-to-you.

    9.30am to 12.30pm, Saturday 21 June, featuring an alteration station with Angela from ‘Sew Impressed’.

    Become friends with your sewing machine: Intro to sewing course at Wanneroo Library

    This four-part introductory sewing course offers the advice and help you need to give your clothing a second life.

    The course is suitable for ages 12 and up, and will cover:

    • general sewing machine functions and dial controls
    • threading, bobbin fill, trouble shooting and needle changing
    • general foot attachments overview: standard, buttonhole, rolled hem and zipper
    • how to insert a zipper using the zipper foot.

    After mastering the basics, participants can work on a project of their own or an item of clothing that needs repairing or adjusting.

    4.30pm to 6.30pm, Monday 23, Tuesday 24, Wednesday 25 and Thursday 26 June.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Assault – Alice Springs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Police are calling for information in relation to an assault that occurred on Sunday morning in Alice Springs.

    Around 11:40am, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received a report of a female being assaulted by a male in scrubland on Grevillea Drive.

    It is alleged that while the victim walked through the scrubland, she noticed that a male was following her. She confronted him and asked that he stop, at which point he allegedly began throwing rocks at her and her dog before fleeing the scene.

    The victim and her dog did not sustain any physical injuries.

    General duties officers have carriage of the incident and investigations are ongoing.

    Police urge anyone with information about the incident to contact Police on 131 444. Please quote reference number NTP2500053757. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Charges – Stolen motor vehicle pursuit – Greater Darwin Region

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The NT Police Force has arrested two males, aged 27 and 15-years-old, after a pursuit involving a stolen Ford Ranger from a business in Tivendale last night.

    Around 11pm, Strike Force Trident members sighted a vehicle that was suspected to be stolen in the Darwin CBD and initiated a pursuit when the vehicle failed to stop for a traffic apprehension. The vehicle travelled outbound through Parap, Winnellie and Knuckey Lagoon all the way to the East Arm Port. The vehicle was observed driving erratically and at speed throughout the pursuit with members from the Dog Operations Unit and General Duties deployed to assist.

    The stolen motor vehicle allegedly rammed through the boom gates at the port entrance security office before coming to a stop at the end of the port with both occupants fleeing the scene on foot.

    Strike Force Trident, Dog Operations Unit and General Duties members commenced a cordoned search and located the 27-year-old male who was also in possession of a machete a short distance away. He was apprehended without incident and has been remanded to appear in Darwin Local Court tomorrow for charges of:

    • Driving, Using/Riding Motor Vehicle without Consent
    • Possess, Carry/Use Controlled Weapon
    • Trespass – Entering without Authority

    The search continued and Patrol Dog Wedge and handler Senior Constable First Class Mathew Unwin tracked the alleged 15-year-old male driver toward a rock wall nearby with General Duties assisting with the arrest. The youth has been remanded to appear in court tomorrow with charges of:

    • Driving, Using/Riding Motor Vehicle without Consent
    • Drive a Motor Vehicle while Unlicensed
    • Driving Vehicle Dangerous Manner – Pursuit
    • Fail to Obey Direction of Police Officer
    • Damage to Property
    • Recklessly Endangering Serious Harm
    • Trespass – Entering without Authority

    Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Dale Motter-Barnard said “It was excellent work to have our members actively sighting the vehicle that had been stolen earlier in the night.

    “The successful apprehension is a credit to the seamless collaboration between Strike Force Trident, Dog Operations Unit and General Duties members.”

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Hit and run – Humpty Doo

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Police are calling for information in relation to a hit and run that occurred on Wednesday 14 May 2025.

    Around 4pm, police received reports that a 16-year-old youth was riding his bicycle on the footpath along the Arnhem Highway when a white sedan, travelling at a slow pace, allegedly mounted the footpath and pushed him off the path, causing him to fall from his bike.

    Police urge anyone that may have witnessed the incident or with dash-cam footage to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number NTP2500049938. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Charges – Domestic violence – Johnston

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    A 22-year-old male has been charged in relation to an incident in Johnston on the night of 22 May 2025.

    The male has been charged with:

    • Aggravated Assault
    • Recklessly Endanger Serious Harm

    He appeared in court today and was remanded to appear in the Darwin Local Court on 23 July 2025.

    A 22-year-old female remains in a critical condition in the Royal Darwin Hospital and investigations into the incident are ongoing.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for witnesses – Domestic violence – Alice Springs CBD

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The NT Police Force is calling for witnesses in relation to a domestic violence incident in Alice Springs CBD this afternoon.

    Around 2pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports of a white Holden Commodore allegedly mounting the curb on Todd Street in an attempt to hit a female on the pathway. It is alleged the male driver nearly hit other pedestrians in the vicinity before it crashed. It is alleged he self-extracted from the vehicle and chased the victim before police arrival.

    Police attended the scene and canvassed CCTV within the area.

    Southern Domestic Violence Unit has carriage of investigations, and the alleged offender remains outstanding.

    A crime scene is expected to remain in place until later this afternoon, with partial blockages to the Todd Street and Gregory Terrace intersection.

    Anyone with information or who witnessed the incident is urged to contact police on 131 444. You can anonymously report crime via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: TRAFFIC WARNING – DUST STORMS AND SEVERE WEATHER – COUNTRY SA

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Severe weather and winds have caused dust storms that are significantly reducing visibility on various country roads throughout the state. Some roads are closed to traffic and will not be reopened until the risk to the public reduces.

    If you are driving in the country, please exercise caution as the roads are unsafe.

    Ensure your headlights are on and drive to the conditions.

    Pull to the side of the road if it is unsafe to continue, activate your hazard lights and wait for the storm to pass.

    Contact police in an emergency on triple-zero (000) or for assistance on 131 444.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Trustee declaration

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    The Trustee declaration is signed by trustees and directors of a corporate trustee of a self-managed superannuation fund (SMSF) to declare they understand their obligations and responsibilities.

    Read the Trustee declaration carefully. If you don’t understand any of the responsibilities, then you should find out about them before signing the declaration.

    Note: You must keep your completed declaration while you remain a trustee of the fund or for 10 years (whichever is longer). Don’t send your completed declaration to us unless we ask for it.

    How to obtain this form

    You can download this form in Portable Document Format (PDF) – download Trustee declaration (NAT 71089, PDF, 228 KB)This link will download a file.

    Who should complete this declaration

    You must complete this declaration if you become a trustee or the director of a corporate trustee of a new SMSF or existing SMSF.

    This declaration must be signed within 21 days of becoming a trustee or director.

    A separate declaration is required to be completed and signed by each and every trustee or director.

    You must also complete this declaration if you:

    • have undertaken an ATO approved course of education to comply with an education direction
    • are a legal personal representative who has been appointed as a trustee or director on behalf of a:      
      • member who is under a legal disability (usually a member under 18 years old)
      • member for whom you hold an enduring power of attorney
      • deceased member.

    To find out more, speak to a professional adviser or contact us on 13 10 20.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ATO announces additional support for new small business owners

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has announced it is providing additional support for new small business owners to ensure they understand and comply with their tax, super and registry obligations from the start.

    The ATO’s campaign, coined ‘ready for business’, highlights that opening and running a small business is ‘serious business’. Approximately 50% of businesses fail in the first 3 yearsExternal Link, often because they don’t get their ATO obligations right when starting their small business journey.

    In the coming months, Australian business number (ABN) holders will receive a series of emails from the ATO which include tips on ABN obligations, business structures, registering for goods and services tax (GST) and understanding employer responsibilities.

    The ATO knows while most small businesses try to do the right thing and comply with their ATO obligations there are some making genuine mistakes and others deliberately not complying.

    Don’t get caught out by GST

    GST registration and payment is an ongoing area of concern for the ATO. The ATO estimates that the community is missing out on almost $8 billion in GST each year that hasn’t been collected due to non-compliance. Small businesses failing to comply with GST obligations contribute significantly to this gap.

    Not every small business needs to be registered for GST, but when their GST turnover is $75,000 or more or when they provide taxi, limousine or ride-sourcing services they must register and collect GST and then pay this to the ATO.

    Small businesses who don’t understand their GST obligations can often be caught out when it comes time to pay.

    ATO Deputy Commissioner Will Day encouraged small businesses to set aside GST, as well as pay as you go (PAYG) withholding and super if they have employer obligations.

    ‘Don’t be tempted to dip into GST, PAYG withholding or super to manage your cash flow – set up separate bank accounts for these funds so you’re always prepared when it’s time to pay’, Mr Day said.

    In early 2025, the ATO wrote to ride-sourcing operators and taxi drivers announcing it was focussed on those operating outside the system. This action resulted in over 3,000 new GST registrations.

    ‘Ride-sourcing operators and taxi drivers who deliberately operate outside the system will face consequences’, Mr Day said.

    Side hustles in the spotlight

    Over 700,000 taxpayers are supplementing their income with ‘side hustles’ including ‘gig’ or sharing economy activities. If your hobby has turned into a profit-making business, you are responsible for certain tax, super and registry obligations.

    ‘Generally, a business involves continuous and repeated activities aimed at making a profit. Visit ato.gov.au/areyouinbusiness to learn more about whether your activities qualify as a business and understand your obligations,’ Mr Day said.

    Plan ahead with PAYG instalments

    The ATO is also encouraging new small businesses to plan ahead to avoid a large tax bill when they lodge their first tax return.

    To prevent this, new small business owners can voluntarily enter and prepay their estimated tax liability through PAYG instalments as soon as they start their business.

    Quotes attributable to Deputy Commissioner Will Day:

    ‘Our goal is to provide small businesses with guidance, tools and tips so new business owners can focus on growing their business with confidence’.

    ‘Small businesses are vital participants in the tax and super system. As stewards for small businesses, our role in making it easy for small business owners to get their tax and super right is more important than ever.’

    ‘We know that successful small business owners understand their tax, super and registry obligations and we are committed to helping them do so. We also know that small businesses who engage a registered tax professional are more likely to stay on top of their tax and super obligations’.

    ‘Through transparent communication, including the support we have available for small businesses, small business owners are better equipped to keep up with their obligations and stay on top of their tax payments. After all, small business is serious business.’

    ‘The ATO’s role is to collect the correct amount of tax so the government can deliver services for the Australian community’.

    Notes to journalists

    • Deputy Commissioner Will Day’s speech to the Institute of Public Accountants (IPA) National Congress 2024 launched ‘Getting it right’, an ongoing quarterly campaign which aims to support small businesses by sharing the ATO’s areas of focus. Deputy Commissioner Will Day’s speech announced the quarter 2 focus areas and the quarter 3 focus areas were announced in the ATO shifts non-compliant small businesses to monthly GST media release.
    • Ensuring new small business owners get their ATO obligations right is the next ‘cab off the rank’ for the ATO’s ongoing ‘Getting it right’ campaign. The ATO will continue to announce new focus areas quarterly.
    • Deputy Commissioner Will Day is available for interviews on request.
    • A high-resolution headshot of Deputy Commissioner Will DayThis link will download a file is available for download from our media centre.
    • ATO stock footage and images are available for use in news bulletins from our media centre.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi congratulates Fudan University on 120th founding anniversary 2025-05-26 15:16:46 Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday sent a congratulatory letter to Fudan University, celebrating its 120th founding anniversary.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

      BEIJING, May 26 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday sent a congratulatory letter to Fudan University, celebrating its 120th founding anniversary.

      Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, extended congratulations to the faculty, students and alumni of the university.

      Over the past 120 years, Fudan University has kept pace with the times, developed a glorious tradition of patriotism and a fine academic ethos, nurtured numerous outstanding talents, produced many original achievements, and played a positive role in China’s development as well as in the progress of the Chinese nation, Xi said in the letter.

      Xi expressed his hope that Fudan University, on the new starting point, will remain steadfast in using the Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era to nurture talent.

      The university should deepen the reform of education and scientific research, promote the virtuous cycle of independent technological innovation and independent cultivation of talent, and drive innovations in philosophy and social sciences, Xi stressed.

      He also urged the university to continuously improve its ability to serve major national strategies and regional economic and social development, thereby making consistent contributions to building China into a strong country and rejuvenating the Chinese nation on all fronts through Chinese modernization.

      Founded in 1905, Fudan University is a comprehensive, research-oriented university based in Shanghai. 

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    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: More traffic expected for Mt Wellington, NZTA and AT plans in full swing

    Source: Auckland Transport

    Date: 13 May 2025

    Auckland Transport (AT) and the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) are collaborating to tackle congestion in Mt Wellington.

    AT is planning to create new transit and heavy vehicle lanes on two major roads that feed vehicles to and from State Highway 1 (SH1) in the afternoon and is now seeking public feedback on the proposal.

    The lanes will make travel quicker and more reliable for delivery vehicles, buses, and people carpooling, says AT’s Road Network Optimisation Manager Chris Martin.

    “Our analysis shows that 11 percent of vehicles moving through here are heavy vehicles or trucks carrying goods, which is higher than normal in Auckland. It would be fantastic to get these vehicles that are essential to our economy out of traffic and moving more efficiently.”

    “On Sylvia Park Road, the road is wide enough for us to add another lane, but this will require painting broken yellow lines on the other side of the road so that one or two parked cars don’t block the road for everyone else,” he says.

    “On Mt Wellington Highway, we are at the point where we need to reallocate the lanes on both sides, so that we can improve productivity and essentially move more people through the same road space.

    “These roads are already very busy with more people living and working in the area. We expect these roads to get busier once IKEA opens, so we’re planning now to get ahead of the congestion crunch,” Mr Martin says.

    AT’s proposals will link existing transit lanes on Great South Road and Atkinson Road and tie in with NZTA’s work.

    NZTA is currently making changes to improve the traffic flow onto the motorway and reduce congestion at the Mt Wellington Highway interchange. The improvements include expanding the current two-lane onramp into three lanes on the southbound approach to SH1 as well as converting the existing give-way controlled left turning southbound slip lane into a signalised pedestrian crossing.  This will allow three lanes of traffic on the on-ramp to reduce the number of vehicles queueing on this busy road.

    The motorway improvements will ensure that unless a pedestrian wants to cross the road, the slip lane will aways be green to allow a free-flowing left turn, plus a third on-ramp lane will let vehicle movement to continue even when double lane traffic is turning right from the south.

    Auckland System Management (ASM) began construction works on the motorway improvements last month.

    “The project’s primary goal is to ease congestion at the Mt Wellington Highway interchange, particularly for those heading south to the SH1 motorway and improve pedestrian safety,” says Paul Geck, Alliance Manager, ASM.

    Both AT and NZTA’s plans are designed to be implemented quickly for the 20,000 plus vehicles that use these roads daily. NZTA’s works are taking place at night and are expected to be complete in July 2025. 

    Ward Councillor Josephine Bartley is encouraging people to tell AT what they think of the proposal.

    “AT’s job is to make the road network as efficient as possible. It’s good to see that AT and NZTA are working on this together and I am cautiously optimistic that this will help everyone spend less time in traffic in the evening. 

    “If you live in the area, work in the area, or travel through the area, take a look at what’s proposed and consider how it could improve the local road ecosystem,” she says.

    Feedback is open on AT’s proposed changes for Keeping Mt Wellington Moving at haveyoursay.at.govt.nz until 8 June 2025.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Football Fever – Show your pride with Auckland’s ride

    Source: Auckland Transport

    Date: 21 May 2025

    Auckland Transport is throwing its support behind Auckland FC as the Black Knights continue their charge to capture football’s A League crown in their inaugural season. 

    Having already claimed the Premiers’ Plate by finishing top of the table, Auckland hosts Melbourne Victory at Go Media Mount Smart Stadium at 6pm this Saturday May 24 in the second match of a home and away semifinal, with the winner booking a place in the Grand Final. 

    While Auckland won the first match 1-0 In Melbourne, the team will still need home fans to bring the noise this weekend and AT is coming to the party, offering free travel on buses and trains included in match tickets. Special Event buses will also be running from Albany, stopping at all Northern Busway stations before heading to the stadium. 

    Match ticket holders can simply show their ticket to the bus driver or train staff member when boarding and remember to keep their tickets for the ride home.  

    The Special Event bus drivers will be showing their support, being decked out in Auckland FC scarfs and there will be free face painting at Albany Bus Station and Waitematā (Britomart) and Newmarket train stations. There will be a Soccer Shootout event at Britomart’s Te Komititanga Square to put your skills to the test and Pacific drummers playing outside Penrose Station to hype fans up on their way to the match. 

    AT CEO Dean Kimpton says with more than 28,000 fans expected at Mount Smart, AT is pleased to be able to support them to get to the game efficiently and safely. 

    “As a fan of the Black Knights’ and their outstanding season, it’s been fantastic to enjoy the real buzz around the city and beyond they have brought to us. It’s going to be a big weekend for Auckland so we’re asking people to plan their trips ahead of time so they can travel smoothly,” Mr Kimpton says. 

    “Just like after all big events in Auckland and around the world there may be a bit of a wait while our team works hard to help get you home onboard our buses and trains.” 

    Fans of the oval ball will also be able to enjoy free travel on buses and trains included in match tickets and free face painting at Albany Bus Station for this weekend’s Black Ferns clash with USA at North Harbour Stadium. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI China: China grab 4 golds at world table tennis finals

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

    Despite a gold-laden campaign at the world championships, China’s once invincible national table tennis team has left the prestigious tournament in Doha, Qatar, with alarm bells ringing for its Olympic ambitions.

    Winning four of the five events at the world championships finals, it seemed like business as usual for China’s table tennis squad to have proved its mighty prowess again in the Qatari capital. However, the surging challenge from the rest of the world, underlined by the squad’s early exit in men’s doubles, has triggered a sense of urgency for the celebrated program.

    Table tennis ace Wang Chuqin competes in the men’s singles final at the World Table Tennis Championship in Doha, Qatar, on Sunday. Wang beat Brazil’s Hugo Calderano 4-1 to add another gold to his collection. XIAO YIJIU/XINHUA

    The men’s doubles final, the first event on Sunday, proceeded without a Chinese pair for the first time in 50 years, with two Chinese teams eliminated in the quarterfinals. Japan’s Hiroto Shinozuka and Shunsuke Togami won the final after beating Chinese Taipei’s Kao Cheng-jui and Lin Yun-ju 3-2 in the best-of-five format.

    Women’s World No 1 Sun Yingsha and men’s World No 2 Wang Chuqin, both from China, then held court at the Lusail Sports Arena, delivering in top form to each claim a singles title, adding to their golden harvest after bagging the mixed doubles title together on Saturday.

    “It felt like a huge burden relieved in my heart,” Wang said after beating Brazil’s reigning World Cup winner Hugo Calderano 4-1 in the best-of-seven final to win his first world championship singles gold medal.

    “It was a tough battle and I am so happy to pull it off, driven by the pride representing my country and the team,” said Wang, who also successfully avenged his semifinal loss to the same opponent at the Macao World Cup last month.

    The recent surge of Calderano, dubbed by fans as the “Thrill from Brazil”, saw the world No 3 edge out Chinese players at major events two times in a row after he beat world No 5 Liang Jingkun with a gripping semifinal win on Saturday to set up a clash with Wang. Calderano’s meteoric rise has pushed Team China’s best to dig harder and stay more cautious in future events.

    “To face him again, I tried to position myself as a challenger. He’s definitely a big threat for us in future tournaments,” Wang said after helping China collect its 11th consecutive men’s singles title at the worlds.

    In the women’s singles final, Sun retained her crown by outplaying teammate and 2021 singles world champion Wang Manyu 4-3 in a seesaw battle.

    It was also the 16th consecutive women’s singles final at the world championships to feature two Chinese finalists since 1995, serving as testament to the program’s dominance in this event.

    After a break during the men’s singles final, Wang Manyu suited up again in the women’s doubles final with partner Kuai Man and ended her Doha outing with a gold, after the world No 2 Chinese pair routed the Austria-Romania duo of Sofia Polcanova and Bernadette Szocs 3-0 in less than 22 minutes to cap off Team China’s campaign in style.

    Team China’s apparent decline of dominance on the men’s side, measured by its own standards, at the world championships has raised concerns over its prospects for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, where the two team events have been replaced by men’s and women’s doubles on the Games’ program.

    The adjustment is expected to pose a tougher threat for China’s ambition of a clean sweep of all golds at LA 2028, where international contenders are more competitive in doubles than in team events.

    “We are definitely facing much more pressure now following the change in the Olympic program. The world is ready to go harder at us, and we should be prepared better as well,” newly elected Chinese Table Tennis Association president Wang Liqin told Xinhua News Agency after taking office last month.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN joins ASEAN Leaders in the Retreat Session of the 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today participated in the Retreat Session of the 46th ASEAN Summit, at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in Malaysia. In this closed-door session, ASEAN Leaders exchanged views on pressing regional and global developments, reaffirming ASEAN’s unity, Centrality and shared commitment to addressing challenges.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN joins ASEAN Leaders in the Retreat Session of the 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN join ASEAN Leaders in the Interface with Representatives of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, participated in the ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with Representatives of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) today, held on the sidelines of the 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The Interface, led by the Chair of ASEAN in 2025, Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia, and AIPA President and Speaker of the Parliament of Malaysia YB Tan Sri Dato’ (Dr.) Johari bin Abdul, highlighted the important role of AIPA in supporting ASEAN’s efforts in achieving its Community Vision

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN join ASEAN Leaders in the Interface with Representatives of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN joins ASEAN Leaders in the Retreat Session of the 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today participated in the Retreat Session of the 46th ASEAN Summit, at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in Malaysia. In this closed-door session, ASEAN Leaders exchanged views on pressing regional and global developments, reaffirming ASEAN’s unity, Centrality and shared commitment to addressing challenges.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN joins ASEAN Leaders in the Retreat Session of the 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN join ASEAN Leaders in the Interface with Representatives of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, participated in the ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with Representatives of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) today, held on the sidelines of the 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The Interface, led by the Chair of ASEAN in 2025, Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia, and AIPA President and Speaker of the Parliament of Malaysia YB Tan Sri Dato’ (Dr.) Johari bin Abdul, highlighted the important role of AIPA in supporting ASEAN’s efforts in achieving its Community Vision

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN join ASEAN Leaders in the Interface with Representatives of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Academic Council discussed cooperation with Slavic universities and the life of the Student City

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    Last Friday, the regular meeting of the SPbPU Academic Council took place. Its participants discussed the interaction of the Polytechnic University with Slavic universities, the work of the Student City, held elections of directors of some institutes and higher schools, and voted for the nomination of several university employees for academic titles.

    Before the meeting, members of the Academic Council congratulated the rector of SPbPU Andrey Rudskoy on the presentation to him, as a co-author of the book “Putin in the Mirror of Time. Milestones of the Biography and Chronicles of the Era”, Letter of thanks from the President of Russia. Then they moved on to the ceremonial part, where many more Polytechnicians and university partners were awarded congratulations and applause.

    For his great contribution to the formation and replenishment of the SPbPU endowment fund and strengthening the positive image of the university, the “For Merit” badge of distinction was awarded to Deputy Head of the Corporate Network Department – Senior Vice President of VTB Bank, Polytechnic University graduate Yuri Levchenko.

    The Chief of the Main Directorate of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Russia for the Leningrad Region, Lieutenant General of the Internal Service Evgeny Deineka, was also awarded the “For Merit” badge.

    The presentation of candidate of science diplomas at the Polytechnic University also takes place in a solemn atmosphere. Members of the Academic Council congratulated their colleagues on receiving their academic degrees: Nikita Zibarev, an assistant at the Higher School of Biotechnology and Food Production, became a candidate of technical sciences, Tatyana Kudryashova, a senior lecturer at the Higher School of Biotechnology and Food Production, became a candidate of biological sciences, and Suzanne Niemb Bekoume, a young scientist from Cameroon, became a candidate of economic sciences.

    Director of the Higher School of Design and Architecture, Doctor of Architecture Margarita Perkova became a corresponding member of the Russian Academy of Architecture and Construction Sciences (RAASN).

    The Association of Museums of Universities of St. Petersburg awarded the director of the SPbPU History Museum, Valery Klimov, with a diploma “For the Honor and Dignity of the Profession.”

    It’s time to celebrate the athletes’ achievements. Students Anastasia Dmitrieva and Elizaveta Shevchenko took first place in the Russian and St. Petersburg championships in sports aerobics.

    The Polytechnic women’s basketball team, which took 2nd place in the All-Russian student competition “ASB League Belov Cup”, was represented by Karina Kambulatova, Yulia Ragozina, Kristina Krivich, Ksenia Litvin and assistant of the Department of Physical Training and Sports Victoria Shipovskaya.

    The Academic Council did not forget about the successes of the university’s creative teams. The SPbPU Chamber Choir received the Grand Prix open competition of student choirs of Russia “Blagovest”. At the Academic Council, the winners were represented by a 2nd-year student of the Institute of Biological Sciences and Biology Olesya Shkorubskaya. Youth choir “Polyhymnia” became the best among fifty participants All-Russian choral competition “Raduga”. And the pop-symphony orchestra Ingenium took 1st place at the festival “Student Spring”— the most significant creative competition of universities in the North-West.

    For the first time, the Academic Council not only congratulated the winners, but also saw fragments of their performances on the big screen, which was especially inspiring and set the mood for positivity.

    On the agenda, Dmitry Arsenyev, Vice-Rector for International Affairs at SPbPU, presented a report entitled “On the coordination of activities and support for development programs of Russian-national (Slavic) universities.”

    The Slavic Universities project is one of the largest international projects of SPbPU. It is aimed at creating an international community of leading universities promoting Russian education, science and culture in the CIS countries. Its key goal is to form an educational outpost uniting universities of Belarus, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and other countries through the introduction of the best Russian practices, deep transformation of educational processes and strengthening of scientific research potential.

    Significant results were achieved during the period from 2021 to 2025: 14 network educational programs and 16 academic mobility programs were launched, involving more than 200 students. Through joint efforts, 18 conferences were held, over 170 scientific papers were published, and more than 500 employees of Slavic universities were trained in advanced training programs. Key initiatives include the creation of an intelligent robotics laboratory at the Belarusian-Russian University, the implementation of the Moodle cloud platform at the Kyrgyz-Russian University, and major events such as the Slavic Horizon Summit (2023) and the International School of Astrophysics at the Byurakan Observatory.

    However, the project faces challenges: legal restrictions due to the status of foreign legal entities, differences in legislation and mentalities, as well as difficulties with migration policy. These barriers require an individual approach to each university and additional resources.

    Large-scale initiatives are planned for 2025–2026: development and implementation of joint and network educational programs, including expert and consulting support for organizing a distance learning system in Slavic universities; creation of a Student Project Bureau at KRSU; mutual academic mobility of students and postgraduates between partner universities; attraction of leading research and teaching staff from Slavic universities to exchange experience; development of comprehensive plans for the development of the scientific base of KRSU with a focus on projects for industrial partners (LLC Alliance Altyn and GC Geoscan); opening of dissertation councils; expert support for the modernization of the information and library complex of KRSU; as well as the formation of a unified youth policy in Slavic universities through the involvement of students in scientific, educational and cultural initiatives. Particular attention will be paid to the dialogue with the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia.

    Slavic universities are a systemic effort to overcome borders, where students from different countries not only study, but also create projects that solve real problems. We see how joint work launches a chain reaction of ideas. Our focus is not on formal indicators, but on creating a unified scientific ecosystem, – emphasized Dmitry Arsenyev.

    The Academic Council of SPbPU noted the importance of the project for promoting technical education of SPbPU abroad, recognized the work done by the project office as satisfactory, and also approved the work plan for the coming year.

    The second issue on the agenda was addressed by the Director of the Student City, Vyacheslav Olshevsky.

    The Polytechnic University campus consists of 21 dormitories, two hostels, three hotels and an administrative and economic block, which includes a production complex and furniture manufacturing.

    The number of people living in dormitories increases every year. According to the admissions targets for 2024, 70% of those admitted to the Polytechnic are from out of town. Currently, about 10 thousand students live in the dormitories of the Student City.

    The administration ensures that each resident is provided with the necessary set of furniture. Each dormitory has a study room for classes, and almost all dormitories have sports rooms. Dormitory repairs are carried out both by the Student City production complex and with the involvement of contractors.

    In 2025, together with the United Student Council of SPbPU, we held a significant event – forum of student councils of dormitories.

    Vyacheslav Olshevsky also spoke about the hotel complex, noting that it brings great benefit in accommodating those in need of accommodation: 95% of the hotels are occupied by students. Also, during the admission campaign, applicants and their parents can live there. There is a 60% discount on accommodation in the hotel complex for students.

    With all the advantages, there are also difficulties. Thus, in 2024, a resort tax was introduced in St. Petersburg (100 rubles). Fortunately, full-time students under 24 are considered a privileged category of citizens. But in 2025, a tourist tax was introduced in St. Petersburg for legal entities, and so far there are no benefits for accommodating students. This issue is currently being resolved at the level of the legislative and executive authorities of the city.

    Vyacheslav Olshevsky pleased us with the information that a food outlet will open in the Maximum Hotel any day now, and this is very good, since there are no cafes or shops near the hotel.

    The third issue on the agenda of the meeting was devoted to the election of directors of institutes and higher schools. According to the results of the vote, the post of director of the Institute of Electronics and Telecommunications was retained by Alexander Korotkov, the post of director of the Institute of Physical Culture, Sports and Tourism was retained by Valery Sushchenko, and Nikolay Ivanov became the director of the Physics and Mechanical Institute. Zeynab Bakhturidze became the director of the Higher School of International Relations of the State Institute of Physical Culture, Sports and Tourism, Vladimir Mulyukha became the director of the Higher School of Artificial Intelligence Technologies of the Institute of Scientific Research, Maria Poltavtseva was elected director of the Higher School of Computer Technologies and Information Systems of the Institute of Scientific Research, Alexey Grachev became the director of the Higher School of Transport of the Institute of Medical and Electronic Technology, Margarita Perkova became the director of the Higher School of Design and Architecture of the Institute of Scientific Research, and M. V. Gumilyov became the director of the Higher School of Professional Judo Trainers named after A. S. Rakhlin – Mikhail Rakhlin, director of the Higher School of Electronics and Microsystem Engineering of the Institute of Electrical Engineering and Technology – Vera Loboda, director of the Higher Engineering and Physics School of the Institute of Electrical Engineering and Technology – Roman Burkovsky, director of the Higher School of Advanced Digital Technologies PISh “Digital Engineering” – Valery Leventsov, director of the Higher School of Fundamental Physics Research of the Physics and Mechanics Institute – Viktor Dubov, director of the Higher School of Applied Mathematics and Computational Physics of the Physics and Mechanics Institute – Maxim Frolov.

    The fourth issue was the presentation for the assignment of academic titles. From the Institute of Electronics and Telecommunications, it was decided to present Sergei Ivanov (scientific specialty “Radiophysics”) and Ivan Rumyantsev (scientific specialty “Electronic component base of micro- and nanoelectronics, quantum devices”) to the title of associate professor.

    The Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport nominated for the title of associate professor: Alexander Bakhshiev (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning), Boris Spassky (Robots, Mechatronics and Robotic Systems), Vasily Teplukhin (Mechanical Science).

    The Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade nominated for the title of associate professor: Ksenia Kikkas (World Economy) and Angi Skhvediani (Mathematical, Statistical and Instrumental Methods in Economics).

    At the end of the meeting, SPbPU Academic Secretary Dmitry Karpov reported on monitoring the implementation of the Academic Council’s decisions.

    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

  • Operation Sindoor outreach: Guyana backs India’s fight against terrorism

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Guyana’s Prime Minister Mark Anthony Phillips and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo on Monday extended strong support for India’s stance against terrorism during a meeting with an all-party Indian parliamentary delegation led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor in Berbice.

    The visit comes in the wake of India’s Operation Sindoor and the terror attack in Pahalgam. Both leaders condemned terrorism unequivocally, reaffirming Guyana’s long-standing ties with India.

    “There is a very good relationship between India and Guyana. Forty per cent of Guyana’s population is of Indian origin, and we share a relationship that spans over 150 years,” said Phillips. “Guyana condemns all acts of terrorism. We believe in peaceful coexistence and the observance of the rule of law.”

    He also welcomed Indian investments and stressed the importance of people-to-people contact in deepening bilateral ties.

    Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo echoed Phillips’ sentiments during his meeting with the delegation.

    “Guyana stands unequivocally with India. We are against terrorism in all its forms and believe perpetrators must be brought to justice,” Jagdeo said, adding that Guyana is keen to explore development collaborations with India in areas such as infrastructure, fintech, and agriculture.

    In a post on X, Shashi Tharoor noted that the delegation’s talks with Jagdeo extended beyond terrorism to encompass Guyana’s economic growth, development plans following the discovery of oil and gas, and the vast opportunities available to Indian companies.

    “Our conversation also spanned a range of topics relating to Guyana’s record-breaking 30% annual economic growth and development plans following the discovery of oil and gas. A large number of opportunities for Indian companies were mentioned, in sectors ranging from agriculture to telecoms, banking and highway development. Guyana is also experiencing labour shortages and would welcome Indian labour as well,” Tharoor wrote.

    BJP MP Tejasvi Surya, also part of the delegation, highlighted the strengthening economic engagement between India and Guyana, especially in infrastructure and energy sectors.

    “Many Indian companies are working in Guyana, employing thousands. We also met with representatives of many spiritual organisations like the Art Of Living, ISKCON and the Bramhakumaris. They serve as the spiritual and cultural anchor for the Indian community here,” Surya wrote on X.

    “Our delegation met with the Vice President of Guyana H.E. Bharrat Jagdeo and spoke to him on a wide range of issues, including India’s fight against terrorism. Mr. Jagdeo has served for 12 years as the President of Guyana and is one of the most respected leaders of the country. He was unequivocal in his condemnation of the Pahalgam attack and fully supported Operation Sindoor. VP also conveyed his keen interest in collaboration with India on key development projects in areas of infrastructure, energy, fin tech and agriculture. With Guyana finding new oil reserves and growing at a rapid pace of 30%, the opportunities for Indian businesses are immense,” he added.

    The all-party delegation includes MPs from across the political spectrum: Shambhavi Chaudhary (Lok Janshakti Party), Sarfaraz Ahmed (Jharkhand Mukti Morcha), G M Harish Balayogi (Telugu Desam Party), Shashank Mani Tripathi, Bhubaneswar K Lata (BJP), Mallikarjun Devda (Shiv Sena), and Taranjit Singh Sandhu, former Indian Ambassador to the U.S.

    The MPs also engaged with the Indian diaspora in Guyana, who voiced strong support for India’s efforts to counter cross-border terrorism and commended the government’s response.

    (With inputs from agencies)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: External merchandise trade statistics for April 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    External merchandise trade statistics for April 2025 
    In April 2025, the value of total exports of goods increased by 14.7% over a year earlier to $434.5 billion, after a year-on-year increase by 18.5% in March 2025. Concurrently, the value of imports of goods increased by 15.8% over a year earlier to $450.5 billion in April 2025, after a year-on-year increase by 16.6% in March 2025. A visible trade deficit of $16.0 billion, equivalent to 3.6% of the value of imports of goods, was recorded in April 2025.
     
    For the first four months of 2025 as a whole, the value of total exports of goods increased by 11.9% over the same period in 2024. Concurrently, the value of imports of goods increased by 11.4%. A visible trade deficit of $96.9 billion, equivalent to 5.7% of the value of imports of goods, was recorded in the first four months of 2025.
     
    Comparing the three-month period ending April 2025 with the preceding three months on a seasonally adjusted basis, the value of total exports of goods increased by 13.8%. Meanwhile, the value of imports of goods increased by 12.6%.
     
    Analysis by country/territory
     
    Comparing April 2025 with April 2024, total exports to Asia as a whole grew by 20.8%. In this region, increases were registered in the values of total exports to some major destinations, in particular Malaysia (+61.5%), Vietnam (+48.3%), Taiwan (+24.1%), the mainland of China (the Mainland) (+23.0%) and India (+22.5%). On the other hand, a decrease was recorded in the value of total exports to Korea (-26.7%).
     
    Apart from destinations in Asia, decreases were registered in the values of total exports to some major destinations in other regions, in particular the Netherlands (-38.4%) and the United Kingdom (-24.1%). On the other hand, an increase was recorded in the value of total exports to Germany (+30.8%).
     
    Over the same period of comparison, increases were registered in the values of imports from most major suppliers, in particular Vietnam (+107.3%), the United Kingdom (+59.5%), Taiwan (+50.6%) and the Mainland (+14.8%). On the other hand, a decrease was recorded in the value of imports from Korea (-21.3%).
     
    For the first four months of 2025 as a whole, increases were registered in the values of total exports to some major destinations, in particular Vietnam (+63.7%), Taiwan (+36.3%) and the Mainland (+18.1%). On the other hand, a decrease was recorded in the value of total exports to the United Arab Emirates (-28.6%).
     
    Over the same period of comparison, increases were registered in the values of imports from some major suppliers, in particular Vietnam (+78.9%), the United Kingdom (+57.9%), Taiwan (+53.1%), Malaysia (+35.8%) and the Mainland (+6.9%). On the other hand, a decrease was recorded in the value of imports from Korea (-23.0%).
     
    Analysis by major commodity
     
    Comparing April 2025 with April 2024, increases were registered in the values of total exports of some principal commodity divisions, in particular “electrical machinery, apparatus and appliances, and electrical parts thereof” (by $33.5 billion or +18.7%) and “office machines and automatic data processing machines” (by $19.5 billion or +46.0%).
     
    Over the same period of comparison, increases were registered in the values of imports of some principal commodity divisions, in particular “electrical machinery, apparatus and appliances, and electrical parts thereof” (by $29.9 billion or +16.8%) and “office machines and automatic data processing machines” (by $19.5 billion or +67.1%).
     
    For the first four months of 2025 as a whole, increases were registered in the values of total exports of some principal commodity divisions, in particular “office machines and automatic data processing machines” (by $106.2 billion or +72.1%) and “electrical machinery, apparatus and appliances, and electrical parts thereof” (by $76.4 billion or +11.2%).
     
    Over the same period of comparison, increases were registered in the values of imports of some principal commodity divisions, in particular “office machines and automatic data processing machines” (by $94.2 billion or +84.7%) and “electrical machinery, apparatus and appliances, and electrical parts thereof” (by $82.4 billion or +12.3%).
     
    Commentary
     
    A Government spokesman said that the value of merchandise exports grew visibly by 14.7% in April over a year earlier. Exports to the Mainland and many other Asian markets grew visibly. Exports to the United States rose marginally, while exports to the European Union fell.
     
    Looking ahead, as international trade tensions have eased somewhat of late, the headwinds and uncertainties in the external environment have lessened to some extent. The sustained steady growth in the Mainland economy, together with Hong Kong’s proactive efforts in enhancing economic and trade ties with different markets, should help buttress trade performance. The Government will continue to closely monitor changes in the external environment and stay vigilant to the potential impacts brought about by shifts in trade policies.
     
    Further information
     
    Table 1 presents the analysis of external merchandise trade statistics for April 2025. Table 2 presents the original monthly trade statistics from January 2022 to April 2025, and Table 3 gives the seasonally adjusted series for the same period.
     
    The values of total exports of goods to 10 main destinations for April 2025 are shown in Table 4, whereas the values of imports of goods from 10 main suppliers are given in Table 5.
     
    Tables 6 and 7 show the values of total exports and imports of 10 principal commodity divisions for April 2025.
     
    All the merchandise trade statistics described here are measured at current prices and no account has been taken of changes in prices between the periods of comparison. A separate analysis of the volume and price movements of external merchandise trade for April 2025 will be released in mid-June 2025.
     
    The April 2025 issue of “Hong Kong External Merchandise Trade” contains detailed analysis on the performance of Hong Kong’s external merchandise trade in April 2025 and will be available in early June 2025. Users can browse and download the report at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1020005&scode=230 
    Enquiries on merchandise trade statistics may be directed to the Trade Analysis Section of the C&SD (Tel: 2582 4691).
    Issued at HKT 16:30

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Pope Leo XIV and the “unique mission” of the Church of Rome

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    VaticanMedia

    by Gianni ValenteRome (Agenzia Fides) – The Church of Rome is heir to a great history, “grounded in the witness of Peter, Paul and countless martyrs, and it has a unique mission: to be Mater omnium Ecclesiarum, Mother of all the Churches”. Pope Leo XIV recalled this during the homily delivered at the solemn Liturgy celebrated this afternoon, May 25, in the Basilica of St. John Lateran.With this celebration, he officially “took possession” of the Chair of the Bishop of Rome.The Church of Rome is “mother of all the Churches”. And the “maternal dimension of the Church,” so often emphasized by Pope Francis — explained the Bishop of Rome — includes “tenderness, self-sacrifice and the capacity to listen. Those qualities enable her not only to assist others but often to anticipate their needs and expectations before they are even expressed.” This caring solicitude has guided the Church’s choices from its earliest steps, as demonstrated by the episode recalled in the passage from the Acts of the Apostles read during today’s liturgy, to which Pope Leo referred in his homily: the meeting known as the “Council of Jerusalem,” where Peter and the Apostles, prompted by Paul of Tarsus and Barnabas, recognizing the difficulties of the new converts, agreed not to impose excessive burdens on them, but rather to insist only on what was ‘essential’.In the letter sent to the Christians in Antioch to communicate the decisions taken in that meeting – Pope Leo recalled – Peter and the Apostles wrote that what was decided “seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us.” These words bore witness to the fact that “the most important part of the entire event was listening to God’s voice, which made everything else possible”.This affirmed, even back then, that “communion is built primarily “on our knees,” through prayer and constant commitment to conversion”. And that “the more we let ourselves be convinced and transformed by the Gospel — allowing the power of the Spirit to purify our heart, to make our words straightforward, our desires honest and clear, and our actions generous — the more capable we are of proclaiming its message”.Saint Leo the Great and Pope LucianiIn the final part of his homily, Pope Leo expressed “the desire and commitment to contribute “to this great ongoing process by listening to everyone as much as possible, in order to learn, understand and decide things together”. The Pontiff asked everyone for support in charity and prayer, recalling the words of Saint Leo the Great: “All the good we do in the exercise of our ministry is the work of Christ and not our own, for we can do nothing without him. Yet we glory in him, from whom all the effectiveness of our work is derived”.To the words of the Holy Pope of the V Christian Century, Pope Prevost then added those spoken by Blessed John Paul I on September 23, 1978, during the celebration for the taking of possession of the Chair of the Bishop of Rome. “Saint Pius X – Pope Luciani had said on that occasion – upon entering Venice as patriarch, exclaimed in Saint Mark’s: ‘What would become of me, dear Venetians, if I did not love you?’ I would say something similar to you Romans: I assure you that I love you, that I desire only to enter into your service and to place my own poor abilities, the little I have and am, at the service of all”. “I too” added Leo XIV, making John Paul I’s words his own, “express my affection for you and my desire to share with you, on our journey together, our joys and sorrows, our struggles and hopes. I too offer you “the little I have and that I am”, entrusting it to the intercession of Saints Peter and Paul and of all those other brothers and sisters of ours whose holiness has illuminated the history of this Church and the streets of this city. May the Virgin Mary accompany us and intercede for us” he concluded. (Agenzia Fides, 25/5/2025)
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