NewzIntel.com

Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Security: Laplace Man Charged With Bank Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that ERNEST X. TAYLOR, JR. (“TAYLOR”), age 40, a resident of LaPlace, Louisiana, was charged on July 30, 2025 in a superseding bill of information with Bank Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1344(2).

    According to court documents, between 2019 and 2022, TAYLOR applied for over $400,000 in loans from credit unions and falsely claimed that the funds would be utilized to purchase vehicles. TAYLOR fraudulently applied for loans under other people’s names and did not disclose to the credit unions that the loan proceeds would go to TAYLOR. In furtherance of his scheme, TAYLOR presented materially false documentation to the credit unions, including fraudulent vehicle titles and falsified pay stubs. After receiving the loan proceeds, TAYLOR defaulted on the loans.

    If convicted, TAYLOR faces up to thirty years imprisonment, up to five years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that the superseding bill of information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Secret Service. Assistant United States Attorneys Maria M. Carboni and Edward Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit are handling the prosecution.

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Guatemalan National Guilty of Illegal Re-Entry into The United States

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that RUBEN URIZAR-BETETA, age 49, a citizen of Guatemala, pled guilty and was sentenced on July 15, 2025, for illegal re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

    According to court records, RUBEN URIZAR-BETETA illegally re-entered the United States sometime prior to March 23, 2025, after having been previously removed on or about September 30, 2014.   

    RUBEN URIZAR-BETETA was sentenced to 30 months unsupervised probation and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Irene González of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illegal Alien Indicted for Two Death Penalty Eligible Offenses after Attempted Carjacking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TUCSON, Ariz. – This afternoon, a federal grand jury in Tucson returned a five-count indictment against Julio Cesar Aguirre, 42, of Mexico, for Attempted Carjacking Resulting in Death, Use or Carrying of a Firearm During a Crime of Violence Causing Death, Possession of a Firearm by an Illegal Alien, Reentry of a Removed Alien, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

    The first two counts carry a maximum penalty of life in prison or death.

    According to court filings, Aguirre shot and killed a male driver with a 9mm caliber handgun, while attempting to carjack the victim’s Toyota Tundra on the morning of June 30, in Tucson, Arizona.

    Shortly after the attempted carjacking, Tucson Police Department (TPD) officers found Aguirre hiding in a nearby shed. Aguirre, a Mexican citizen, who was previously removed from the United States in 2013, was living in the country illegally at the time of the shooting. When he was arrested, TPD officers discovered a Smith & Wesson 9mm caliber pistol within Aguirre’s reach. As a convicted felon and as an illegal alien, Aguirre was prohibited from possessing a firearm.

    “The focus in this case should be on the senseless loss of the victim and the pain that loss creates for his family and friends. Our criminal laws exist to protect our community, and the United States has an obligation to enforce those laws,” said United States Attorney Timothy Courchaine. “The alleged series of crimes in the indictment, starting with illegal immigration, escalating to prohibited possession of a firearm, and culminating in the death of an innocent individual, is why the United States Attorney’s Office takes this matter so seriously.”

    “This indictment represents a meaningful step toward accountability and justice for the victim, their loved ones, and all those affected by the tragic events in early July,” said FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Heith Janke. “The allegations in this case involve a senseless act of violence that claimed an innocent life and deeply impacted our community. Carjacking resulting in death is a serious federal offense. The FBI, in partnership with the Tucson Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, remains dedicated to pursuing justice and ensuring public safety.”

    A conviction for Illegal Alien in Possession of a Firearm or Felon in Possession of a Firearm each carries a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in prison. A conviction for Illegal Reentry carries a maximum penalty of up to 10 years in prison.

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

    TPD and the FBI Phoenix Division’s Tucson office conducted the investigation in this case, with assistance from the Southern Arizona Violent Crime and Gang Task Force. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution.

    An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    CASE NUMBER:           CR-25-3393-TUC-RM-MAA
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2025-128_Aguirre Indictment

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Charged With Arson Of U.S. Post Office In San Jose

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN JOSE – A criminal complaint was unsealed today charging Richard Tillman with the federal crime of malicious destruction by fire of a U.S. post office in San Jose.  Tillman made his initial appearance in federal district court in San Jose today.  

    According to the criminal complaint, in the early hours of July 20, 2025, Tillman, 44, set fire to the Almaden Valley United States Post Office located on Crown Boulevard in San Jose.  Tillman allegedly purchased “instalogs” and lighter fluid and drove to the U.S. post office.  The complaint describes that Tillman then placed the instalogs throughout his vehicle, poured lighter fluid over the instalogs, backed his vehicle into the lobby of the U.S. post office, exited the vehicle, and lit the vehicle on fire with a match.

    Tillman then allegedly began spray painting the words “Viva La Me” on the outside of the building after starting the fire, but did not finish the graffiti because the heat from the fire was too intense.  

    The Almaden Valley United States Post Office was partially destroyed by the fire, as depicted below:

    The San Jose Fire Department and the San Jose Police Department responded to the fire.  Tillman allegedly told law enforcement officers that he set the fire to make a statement to the U.S. government and that he livestreamed the event on YouTube using his phone.  

    United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian, U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), San Francisco Division Inspector in Charge Stephen M. Sherwood, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) Acting Special Agent in Charge Robert Topper, and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani made the announcement.

    Tillman is currently in federal custody.  He is next scheduled to appear in district court on Aug. 6, 2025, for a status conference before U.S. Magistrate Judge Nathanael Cousins.    

    A criminal complaint merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.  If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a minimum sentence of five years in prison, and a fine of $250,000 for the charge of malicious destruction of government property by fire in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 844(f)(1).  Any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.  

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael G. Pitman is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Sahib Kaur.  The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the USPIS, ATF, FBI, and the San Jose Police Department.  The U.S. Attorney’s Office appreciates the assistance of the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office. 

    Tillman Complaint

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Jury Convicts Texas Man of Cocaine Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Jorge Luis Guerrero, of Socorro, Texas, was found guilty by a federal jury in Pittsburgh of possessing with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. The jury returned its verdict on July 29, 2025, after deliberating for five-and-a-half hours following a six-day trial.

    Guerrero, 39, was tried before Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.

    The evidence presented at trial established that Guerrero transported five kilograms of cocaine to the Western District of Pennsylvania hidden in a secret compartment in the bumper of a vehicle registered to his wife. Accessing the cocaine required removing the bumper cover and bumper of the vehicle and then additional metal plates that concealed the compartment housing the cocaine.

    Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for December 10, 2025. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Robert C. Schupansky and V. Joseph Sonson prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.

    Agents and task force officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, as well as personnel from the Socorro Police Department, United States Customs and Border Protection, and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, assisted in the trial.

    This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Votes Yes on Arms Sale Resolutions to Send Message to Netanyahu Government

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) issued the following statement on her vote in favor of two Joint Resolutions of Disapproval (JRD) sponsored by Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) that would block the sale of certain weapons to Israel:

    “This legislative tool is not perfect, but frankly, it is time to say enough to the suffering of innocent young children and families. As a longtime friend and supporter of Israel, I am voting yes to send a message: the Netanyahu government cannot continue with this strategy. Netanyahu has prolonged this war at every turn to stay in power. We are witnessing a man-made famine in Gaza—children and families should not be dying from starvation or disease when literal tons of aid and supplies are just sitting across the border. Israel has a right to defend itself and Hamas is a brutal terrorist organization that should be eliminated, but the level of suffering and loss of life we are seeing in Gaza must come to an end—I feel strongly that the vast majority of the American public understands these simple truths. It’s on the Trump administration and the Netanyahu government to finally secure a diplomatic end to this conflict, get aid into Gaza, get the hostages returned, and start working toward a permanent and lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians alike.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Sensex, Nifty open lower amid concerns over US tariffs effective August 1

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian benchmark indices opened lower on Thursday after US President Donald Trump announced a steep 25 per cent tariff on imports from India, triggering concerns among investors.

    At 9:27 a.m., the Sensex was down 487 points or 0.60 per cent at 80,994, while the Nifty declined 140 points or 0.57 per cent to trade at 24,717.

    Broader markets also witnessed selling pressure. The Nifty Midcap 100 index fell by 457 points or 0.79 per cent to 57,484, and the Nifty Smallcap 100 index was down 100 points or 0.55 per cent at 18,037.

    “From an investor’s perspective, it is important to understand that the 25 per cent tariff is likely to come down after negotiations, which are expected to begin in mid-August. The tariff imposed on India is significantly higher than the rates agreed upon in trade deals with other countries,” said Dr. V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.

    He termed it a typical “Trumpian strategy” aimed at negotiating better deals from India in other areas, likely culminating in a final tariff rate of around 20 per cent or lower.

    “Nifty is unlikely to fall below the support level of 24,500. Investors can consider buying on dips, with a focus on domestic consumption themes. Sectors like private sector banking, telecom, capital goods, cement, hotels, and select auto stocks that performed well in Q1 remain attractive,” he added.

    Almost all sectoral indices turned red in morning trade, with auto, energy, pharma, PSU banks, financial services, metal, realty, and public sector enterprises (PSEs) among the top laggards.

    In the Sensex pack, M&M, Bharti Airtel, Reliance, Infosys, HCL Tech, Titan, SBI, TCS, ICICI Bank, Trent, L&T, HDFC Bank, and NTPC were among the top losers. On the other hand, Power Grid, Tata Steel, ITC, and HUL emerged as the top gainers.

    In terms of institutional activity, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) continued their selling streak for the eighth straight session on July 30, offloading equities worth ₹850 crore. In contrast, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) extended their buying spree for the 18th consecutive session, purchasing equities worth ₹1,829 crore on the same day.

    -IANS

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Result of the Overnight Variable Rate Reverse Repo (VRRR) auction held on July 31, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Tenor 1-day
    Notified Amount (in ₹ crore) 50,000
    Total amount of offers received (in ₹ crore) 13,075
    Amount accepted (in ₹ crore) 13,075
    Cut off Rate (%) 5.49
    Weighted Average Rate (%) 5.49
    Partial Acceptance Percentage of offers received at cut off rate NA

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/812

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKTE revamps website to enable talent’s convenient search for information (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    HKTE revamps website to enable talent’s convenient search for information (with photo) 
    (1) an expanded guide to living in Hong Kong to cover 18 categories, including education, healthcare, taxation, etc;
     
    (2) a new dedicated page for HKTE activities, providing one-stop registration services;
     
    (3) an enhanced recruitment platform network; and
     
    (4) the introduction of a chatbot function, providing instant feedback to enquiries from talent.Issued at HKT 13:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Flexibility, adaptability and security in the labour market

    Source: Government of Sweden

    The transition package to improve long-term flexibility, adaptability and security in the labour market is based on a proposal from the trade unions and employers within the private sector. All workers gain better opportunities for transition and skills development throughout their working life, and Sweden’s competitiveness is strengthened. This involves a reformed labour law, a new student finance scheme and new basic transition and skills support.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Occupational safety and health stocktaking summit

    Source: Government of Sweden

    The European Commission and the Swedish Presidency will jointly review the progress of the Commission’s Strategic Framework on Health and Safety at Work 2021–2027 at the Occupational safety and health summit in Stockholm on 15–16 May. The themes include mental health at work, the ‘vision zero’ approach to work-related deaths, and the impact of climate change on occupational safety and health (OSH).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Skills supply and demographic challenges on agenda for informal EU meeting

    Source: Government of Sweden

    On 3–4 May, the EU social affairs and labour market ministers will gather in Stockholm for an informal meeting hosted by Minister for Employment and Integration Johan Pehrson and Minister for Older People and Social Security Anna Tenje. Minister for Gender Equality and Working Life Paulina Brandberg will also take part.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: International cooperation to triple global capacity of nuclear energy

    Source: Government of Sweden

    On Saturday 2 December at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28), Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, French President Emmanuel Macron and the United States Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry – together with heads of state and government, ministers and industrial leaders from some 20 countries – launched a declaration for strengthened cooperation in the area of civil nuclear energy.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Protecting and helping children a new step in Sweden’s support to Ukraine

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Over seven million people in Ukraine have been forced to leave their homes and seek temporary protection from Russia’s aggression, both within Ukraine and in other European countries. The overwhelming majority are women and children. Children are often among the most vulnerable in war and conflict. Sweden and Ukraine have now entered into a cooperation agreement to continue supporting and protecting children.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: A Chaplain No Matter Where

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    For 250 years, our Navy has served the United States of America, but one community also proudly celebrates 250 years of service: our proud and sacred Chaplains.

    On November 28, 1775, Benjamin Balch was appointed to serve religious services on the frigates Alliance and Boston as the first Naval Chaplain. Balch was given the nickname “The Fighting Parson” as he started the Navy Chaplain Corps’ strong and mighty history.

    On a ship, a Chaplain is known for their services and open-door policies, but they are also seen as a pillar of support for the entire crew. They not only serve those in their religious community but also anyone willing to speak to them. In addition to the ship’s religious services outside their span, if the crew needs it, our Chaplain will provide.

    Lieutenant Reginald Anderson-Exul is a proud Chaplain with over twenty years of experience in official ministry, dedicating six of those years to the Navy. Today, he works with the crew of the USS Pearl Harbor.

    “My job on the USS Pearl Harbor is to provide spiritual needs of the crew,” said Lieutenant Reginal Anderson-Exul, the USS Pearl Harbor’s Chaplain. “There is a lot of resiliency-type of training that is tied in with that, and to make sure the overall morale of the crew is as high as can possibly be”. On board Anderson-Exul, he has worked hard to offer many different religious services, working to add services on Saturday for his Jewish community on board.

    The USS Pearl Harbor is Anderson-Exul’s first deployment in his military career. USS Pearl Harbor is currently partaking in Pacific Partnership 2025, a humanitarian aid and disaster management mission. Pacific Partnership is not only an effort to help others, but also to strengthen the bond of allied nations. In its 21st iteration, Pacific Partnership has brought eight nations together: Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States. All the countries work alongside the crew of the USS Pearl Harbor and the staff of PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP 2025 to safely get to every port of the deployment. One of these volunteers is Lieutenant Commander Dave Godkin, who has served for the last twelve years as a Canadian Navy Chaplain.

    “I was introduced to a series of different American Chaplains and then was asked if I was interested in participating, and I was,” spoke Godkin when asked about how he joined PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP 2025. He takes pride in his work as a Chaplain, working around the clock to help everyone and anyone he can. He has been on three ships, with Pacific Partnership being his third deployment. Godkin spoke highly of his work on the USS Pearl Harbor. “I’m there to support them, and I’m also there to support the chain of command. Helping people be in a position where they can be spiritually fit and operationally fit,” stated Godkin in an interview, “I really do; I really like helping people in general. I enjoy especially one-on-one, taking time to listen to a person,”.

    Anderson-Exul and Godkin are excited to work together on the mission of Pacific Partnership, bringing communities closer and sharing the good word to those who need it. Anderson-Exul spoke on how it was to work together, “We both provide for people, care for people, and have a passion for religion, and it’s different, but it’s very much the same.” Godkin shares his sentiment, sharing that he is happy to get to know how everyone works. “You get used to a certain box of doing things, but then when you partner with nations that have their sphere of work, it’s a great way of pushing your boundaries to learn new things,”. Both Chaplains say that everything is coming together really well and are excited to continue working together on this mission. Even saying that it is a “Once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to serve other countries in humanitarian efforts and to contribute to the mission.”

    In 1775, the first Chaplain was appointed to serve his mission. Now, 250 years later, no matter where a Chaplain comes from or what a Chaplain practices, they always have their sailors’ interests at heart. Doing whatever needs to be done to help their crew, whether it is conducting a religious ceremony or extending a hand, a Chaplain will always be there for you.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Kids need to floss too, even their baby teeth. But how do you actually get them to do it?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dileep Sharma, Professor and Head of Discipline – Oral Health, University of Newcastle

    Jonathan Borba/Pexels

    A survey from the Australian Dental Association out this week shows about three in four children never floss their teeth, or have adults do it for them. Many of the survey respondents thought it wasn’t worthwhile for baby teeth.

    As anyone who cares for kids knows, it can be hard enough to get them to brush twice daily, let alone floss.

    So how do you actually get kids to floss? Why do they need to anyway?

    Do kids really need to floss?

    Flossing can reach between the teeth where toothbrushes can’t. It removes the soft food debris and biofilm, a slimy layer on teeth that harbours microbes, and so reduces the risk of dental decay and gum disease.

    So flossing is essential as soon as children’s teeth erupt and are in contact with the next one. This is typically at the age of six to eight months when the lower front teeth start to emerge through their gums.

    But they’re just baby teeth, right?

    You may be thinking flossing is not worth the time or trouble, especially for younger children who’ll lose their baby teeth in a few years anyway.

    However, baby teeth play a vital role in how children’s jaw bones develop and their face appears. And losing baby teeth early – due to the dental decay that can arise from not flossing – can have several effects.

    As a child, it can change their speech and appearance. These can affect a child’s self-esteem and impact their wellbeing, depending on their age.

    Losing baby teeth early can also affect them as a teenager or adult. Baby teeth act as a guide to where permanent teeth should erupt so losing them early can lead to crowding of teeth, needing orthodontic treatment (braces). In fact, premature loss of baby teeth can increase the risk of “malocclusion” or problems in the position of permanent teeth by more than 2.5 times.

    Cleaning between the teeth is also vital for teens to reduce the risk of gingivitis (inflammation of the gums). This is very common in this age group due to changes in hormone levels.

    Yes, it can be challenging

    Setting up a regular flossing routine may be challenging for many families. It’s one more thing to squeeze into the early morning rush to get to school or work. It can be hard to motivate tired children to floss at the end of the day too.

    The technique itself also needs a level of manual dexterity for the kids themselves or for the parents who floss younger kids’ teeth.

    You or your kids may have some form of dental anxiety due to previous negative experiences with dental visits. This may affect dental hygiene, or your likelihood to floss.

    All of these factors can lead to lack of motivation or reluctance to floss, and so increases the risk of dental decay and gum disease in children.

    But there are ways to help you and your kids develop and stick to a flossing regime.

    OK, you’ve convinced me. What next?

    First, gather your equipment.

    Interdental brushes look like mini bottle brushes. These are more effective for larger spaces between adjacent teeth, or if your child has braces.

    Floss or floss picks are only effective for areas with smaller or no spaces between adjacent teeth. Kid-friendly designs, such as animal-shaped and colourful floss and floss picks, can be an excellent option to make this routine more enjoyable. Flavoured floss, or floss that smells like fruit or chocolate can be appealing. Involving kids in the choice of floss or floss picks can boost their motivation to floss.

    Alternatively, a waterjet flosser can make cleaning between the teeth more engaging. It’s as effective as regular dental floss.

    For toddlers and preschoolers, using rewards and positive reinforcements, such as sticker charts or gold stars, can keep kids motivated to floss. So stock up.

    Then choose your timing. Flossing is best done once a day, either in the morning or before bedtime. That’s because flossing can effectively remove biofilm between the teeth for 24 hours. You can floss before or after brushing.

    Parents will need to brush and floss the teeth of infants and children up to five years old, until the children develop their own manual dexterity.

    For infants, it’s easier if one adult holds them upright or sits them on their lap while the other does the flossing. For toddlers and preschoolers it may be easier to floss if they are sitting on the toilet, or standing at the basin with their head tilted back.

    Last of all, lead by example. Kids with parents who regularly floss tend to pick up the routine quickly.

    Any more tips?

    Flossing is only one part of preventing tooth decay and dental diseases, such as gum disease. It’s also important for children to:

    • avoid snacking on food with a high sugar content

    • choose plain water over fruit juices or fizzy drinks

    • avoid falling asleep with a feeding bottle containing milk, fruit juice or sugary liquids

    • avoid using a dummy dipped in sugary liquids or honey

    • clean their tongue while brushing their teeth

    • see a dentist or oral health professional well before their first tooth erupts so they can get used to the idea of a dental appointment.

    Dileep Sharma receives funding from the Dental Council of NSW, International Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research, Australian government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, International College of Dentists and Tropical Australian Academic Health Centre for his dental research projects. He is affiliated with The International Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research and Australian Dental Association.

    – ref. Kids need to floss too, even their baby teeth. But how do you actually get them to do it? – https://theconversation.com/kids-need-to-floss-too-even-their-baby-teeth-but-how-do-you-actually-get-them-to-do-it-262209

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • WCL 2025: India Champions refuse to play Pakistan, organisers call off semifinal

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The World Championship of Legends (WCL) semifinal between India Champions and Pakistan Champions was officially cancelled on Wednesday after the Indian team refused to take the field against their Pakistani counterparts, citing strong public sentiment following the Pahalgam terror attack.

    The decision comes weeks after the Indian side had already forfeited a group stage match against Pakistan, with several players including Shikhar Dhawan openly stating their unwillingness to compete against a nation they accuse of supporting terrorism.

    In a statement issued on Wednesday evening, the WCL organisers confirmed the match had been called off. “We respect the India Champions’ decision to withdraw from the semifinals, and we equally respect the Pakistan Champions’ readiness to compete. Taking all factors into consideration, the match between the India Champions and the Pakistan Champions has been called off,” the statement read.

    “As a result, Pakistan Champions will advance to the final,” it added.

    The Yuvraj Singh-led India Champions had earned their semifinal spot after a remarkable comeback win over the West Indies Champions, chasing 145 in just 13.2 overs, thanks to a blistering 21-ball half-century from Stuart Binny. The win came after a shaky start to the tournament, where India suffered three defeats in their first four games.

    However, the larger geopolitical backdrop continued to loom large over the tournament. Public anger in India following the Pahalgam terror attack—believed to have links to Pakistan—has fuelled calls to boycott sporting ties with the country. The sentiment found voice in the India Champions squad, with players like Suresh Raina, Irfan Pathan, and Yusuf Pathan standing firm alongside Dhawan.

    The organisers, while expressing disappointment over the disruption to the tournament, acknowledged the emotional undercurrent. “We have always believed in the power of sport to bring about positive change in the world. But we also realise that public sentiment must always be respected—after all, everything we do is for our audience,” the statement said.

    The cancellation of the high-voltage semifinal has cast a shadow over the final stages of the WCL, which aimed to bring former legends of the game back into the spotlight. As it stands, Pakistan Champions will now await their opponent in the summit clash, with the other semifinal proceeding as scheduled.

    IANS

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Lufthansa Group increases Adjusted EBIT by 27 percent in the second quarter and confirms full-year forecast

    Source: Lufthansa Group

    Carsten Spohr, Chairman of the Executive Board and CEO of Deutsche Lufthansa AG:

    “The Lufthansa Group remains on course. Although the second quarter was again marked by geopolitical crises and economic uncertainties, we are today confirming our positive outlook for the full year. However, 2025 will remain a year of transformation for us, as delays in aircraft deliveries, certifications, and engine overhauls continue. The disproportionate burden on European airlines due to unilateral EU regulations also continues to put us at a disadvantage in global competition.

    In this challenging environment, we were able to increase our operating result by almost a third in the second quarter and double the Lufthansa Group result. The basis for this economic success is and remains the regained operational stability of our airlines. Thanks to the tremendous commitment of our employees on board and on the ground, we are now able to report positive operating results for the first six months of the year. Our core brand achieved its best stability and punctuality figures since 2016. This not only significantly improved customer satisfaction but also had a noticeable impact on earnings due to lower compensation payments.

    Lufthansa Cargo and Lufthansa Technik once again demonstrated their global leading performance in the first half of 2025. It is also encouraging that our investment in ITA Airways is already contributing to the Group’s financial success.

    We are continuing our necessary efforts to increase efficiency, productivity, and profitability, particularly in the turnaround of our core brand, in order to expand our position as the world’s largest airline group outside the US.”

    Results

    In the second quarter of 2025, the Lufthansa Group increased its revenue by three percent year-on-year to 10.3 billion euros (previous year: 10.0 billion euros). The Lufthansa Group generated an operating profit (Adjusted EBIT) of 871 million euros (previous year: 686 million euros). The improvement in earnings was mainly due to the four percent expansion of the flight program in the passenger business, a positive result from the investment in ITA Airways of 91 million euros, partly due to currency effects, and the doubling of the operating result of the logistics business segment compared to the previous year. As a result, the operating margin increased by 1.5 percentage points year-on-year in the second quarter. The Group net result was 1.01 billion euros, more than double the previous year’s figure (469 million euros). This disproportionate increase was due to extraordinary tax effects and currency effects.

    Passenger numbers and traffic development

    In the first half of the year, more than 61 million passengers flew with the airlines of the Lufthansa Group, an increase of two percent compared with 2024. In the second quarter alone, the airlines welcomed around 37 million passengers (previous year: 35.9 million) on board. Despite a four percent increase in seat capacity, the load factor remained stable compared with the previous year at 82 percent.

    The passenger airlines’ revenue per available seat kilometer (RASK) declined slightly by 0.9 percent in the second quarter compared with 2024 after adjusting for currency effects. This was primarily due to lower average prices in the European business as a result of intensifying competition. In contrast, average revenues from intercontinental traffic remained stable despite a market-wide expansion of capacity. Unit costs (CASK) excluding fuel and emissions expenses rose by 4.1 percent compared with the same quarter last year due to ongoing cost inflation, driven in particular by personnel and location costs.

    Overall, revenue from passenger airlines rose by three percent to 8.2 billion euros in the second quarter (previous year: 8.0 billion euros). Adjusted EBIT increased to 690 million euros (previous year: 581 million euros). All airlines generated a positive result in the second quarter.

    In the first half year, revenue for the passenger airlines totaled 14.1 billion euros, representing growth of around four percent compared with the previous year. Adjusted EBIT improved to -244 million euros (first half of 2024: -337 million euros). The positive development is mainly attributable to lower fuel costs, higher income from investments, and the absence of financial strike-related expenses in the previous year. In contrast to the first half of 2024, network stability also improved significantly, resulting in a 106 million euros reduction in financial expenses due to flight irregularities.

    The integration of ITA Airways, in which the Lufthansa Group holds a 41 percent stake in the first phase, is continuing to progress. The benefits for customers are already clearly noticeable. Since the beginning of July, the airlines of the Lufthansa Group and ITA Airways have harmonized the benefits for their respective status customers, such as mutual lounge access, priority boarding, and conditions for additional baggage.

    Also since July, flights from Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, and Brussels Airlines can be combined with long-haul flights from ITA Airways in a single booking. This has been possible for short- and medium-haul flights since March.

    Starting in September, ITA Airways guests will be able to store their travel profile electronically in the Lufthansa Group Travel ID and benefit from the associated digital customer services of the Lufthansa Group.

    Lufthansa Airlines continues to implement Turnaround program

    Lufthansa Airlines’ Turnaround program remains on track. Increasing operational stability forms the foundation for the success of this program. Significant progress has already been made in this regard: punctuality and reliability achieved their best figures in ten years in the first six months. At the same time, revenues increased. Revenue from flight-related ancillary services rose by more than 25 percent in the first half of the year. In addition, structural measures have been initiated with the announced closure of the customer service center in Peterborough (Canada) and the associated reduction in personnel, which will make Lufthansa Airlines more efficient in the long term. The Turnaround measures are expected to have a gross earnings effect of 1.5 billion euros in 2026 and 2.5 billion euros in 2028.

    Lufthansa Technik at record levels in the first half of the year, Lufthansa Cargo doubles its second quarter result compared with the previous year

    The sustained high demand for air travel is leading to a further increase in demand for maintenance and repair services. Lufthansa Technik’s revenue rose by eight percent to 2.0 billion euros in the second quarter (same quarter last year: 1.8 billion euros). Ongoing material shortages, the US dollar exchange rate and increased US tariffs led to a ten percent increase in expenses compared with the same quarter last year. Nevertheless, Lufthansa Technik achieved an Adjusted EBIT of 310 million euros in the first half of 2025, once again setting a new record.

    Lufthansa Cargo continued the positive trend of the first three months of the year in the second quarter. With an Adjusted EBIT of 73 million euros, the operating result in the second quarter doubled compared with the previous year (second quarter of 2024: 36 million euros). High demand for Asian e-commerce shipments and capacity bottlenecks in sea freight traffic led to an increase in demand and thus a higher load factor for Lufthansa Cargo. Since June 2025, Lufthansa Cargo has been marketing the freight capacity of ITA Airways’ South American routes to Rome. Lufthansa Cargo plans to gradually expand the marketing of belly capacity to all continental and intercontinental routes of the Italian airline. This will further consolidate Lufthansa Cargo’s route network.

    Balance sheet strengthened, debt reduced

    The Lufthansa Group’s operating cashflow amounted to around 2.8 billion euros in the first half of the year (previous year: 2.7 billion euros). Net investments remained at the previous year’s level at 1.6 billion euros. Overall, the Lufthansa Group generated an Adjusted Free Cashflow of 1.04 billion euros (previous year: 878 million euros).

    Net debt decreased slightly to 5.5 billion euros compared with the end of 2024 (December 31, 2024: 5.7 billion euros). Net pension obligations fell by 400 million euros to 2.2 billion euros due to the higher discount rate. The Lufthansa Group’s available liquidity increased by 100 million euros compared with the beginning of the year to 11.1 billion euros.

    Till Streichert, Chief Financial Officer of Deutsche Lufthansa AG:

    “We continue to operate in a volatile environment with high uncertainty and high cost pressure. I am therefore pleased to be able to present another quarterly result that is significantly above the previous year and to report progress in our Turnaround program. In our assessment, opportunities and risks are balanced. We therefore continue to expect a full year 2025 result significantly above the previous year and Adjusted Free Cashflow at approximately the previous year’s level. We thereby confirm our guidance. At the same time, we are closely monitoring macroeconomic developments and can respond flexibly to changes in the business environment.”

    Outlook

    Global demand for air travel remains strong. However, geopolitical crises and macroeconomic uncertainties, particularly commodity price and exchange rate volatility, are affecting the accuracy of forecasts for the rest of the year. In addition, the tendency of many travelers to book at shorter notice is limiting visibility for the second half of the year.

    Despite ongoing global uncertainties, the Lufthansa Group is reaffirming its forecast for the full year and expects operating profit (Adjusted EBIT) to be significantly higher than last year (previous year: 1.6 billion euros) with capacity growth of around four percent.

    The company continues to expect Adjusted Free Cashflow to remain at the previous year’s level (previous year: 840 million euros). This includes net investments of 2.7 to 3.3 billion euros, primarily for the ongoing fleet renewal.

    Among other things, this will finance the remaining payments for the first Boeing 787-9 long-haul aircraft at the group’s largest hub in Frankfurt. By the end of the year, up to ten of these ‘Dreamliner’ with the new Allegris seat generation are expected to be added to the group’s fleet. In summer 2026, Lufthansa Airlines plans to operate a total of 15 Boeing 787-9 s from Frankfurt, more than doubling the number of aircraft offering the Lufthansa Allegris premium product to customers.

    Further information

    Further information on the results of individual business segments will be published in the report for the second quarter of 2025. This will be published simultaneously with this press release on July 31 at 7:00 a.m. CEST at https://investor-relations.lufthansagroup.com/en/financial-reports-publications/financial-reports.html.

    Traffic figures for the second quarter of 2025 will also be published at 7:00 a.m. CEST at https://investor-relations.lufthansagroup.com/en/financial-reports-publications/traffic-figures.html.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Lufthansa Group increases Adjusted EBIT by 27 percent in the second quarter and confirms full-year forecast

    Source: Lufthansa Group

    Carsten Spohr, Chairman of the Executive Board and CEO of Deutsche Lufthansa AG:

    “The Lufthansa Group remains on course. Although the second quarter was again marked by geopolitical crises and economic uncertainties, we are today confirming our positive outlook for the full year. However, 2025 will remain a year of transformation for us, as delays in aircraft deliveries, certifications, and engine overhauls continue. The disproportionate burden on European airlines due to unilateral EU regulations also continues to put us at a disadvantage in global competition.

    In this challenging environment, we were able to increase our operating result by almost a third in the second quarter and double the Lufthansa Group result. The basis for this economic success is and remains the regained operational stability of our airlines. Thanks to the tremendous commitment of our employees on board and on the ground, we are now able to report positive operating results for the first six months of the year. Our core brand achieved its best stability and punctuality figures since 2016. This not only significantly improved customer satisfaction but also had a noticeable impact on earnings due to lower compensation payments.

    Lufthansa Cargo and Lufthansa Technik once again demonstrated their global leading performance in the first half of 2025. It is also encouraging that our investment in ITA Airways is already contributing to the Group’s financial success.

    We are continuing our necessary efforts to increase efficiency, productivity, and profitability, particularly in the turnaround of our core brand, in order to expand our position as the world’s largest airline group outside the US.”

    Results

    In the second quarter of 2025, the Lufthansa Group increased its revenue by three percent year-on-year to 10.3 billion euros (previous year: 10.0 billion euros). The Lufthansa Group generated an operating profit (Adjusted EBIT) of 871 million euros (previous year: 686 million euros). The improvement in earnings was mainly due to the four percent expansion of the flight program in the passenger business, a positive result from the investment in ITA Airways of 91 million euros, partly due to currency effects, and the doubling of the operating result of the logistics business segment compared to the previous year. As a result, the operating margin increased by 1.5 percentage points year-on-year in the second quarter. The Group net result was 1.01 billion euros, more than double the previous year’s figure (469 million euros). This disproportionate increase was due to extraordinary tax effects and currency effects.

    Passenger numbers and traffic development

    In the first half of the year, more than 61 million passengers flew with the airlines of the Lufthansa Group, an increase of two percent compared with 2024. In the second quarter alone, the airlines welcomed around 37 million passengers (previous year: 35.9 million) on board. Despite a four percent increase in seat capacity, the load factor remained stable compared with the previous year at 82 percent.

    The passenger airlines’ revenue per available seat kilometer (RASK) declined slightly by 0.9 percent in the second quarter compared with 2024 after adjusting for currency effects. This was primarily due to lower average prices in the European business as a result of intensifying competition. In contrast, average revenues from intercontinental traffic remained stable despite a market-wide expansion of capacity. Unit costs (CASK) excluding fuel and emissions expenses rose by 4.1 percent compared with the same quarter last year due to ongoing cost inflation, driven in particular by personnel and location costs.

    Overall, revenue from passenger airlines rose by three percent to 8.2 billion euros in the second quarter (previous year: 8.0 billion euros). Adjusted EBIT increased to 690 million euros (previous year: 581 million euros). All airlines generated a positive result in the second quarter.

    In the first half year, revenue for the passenger airlines totaled 14.1 billion euros, representing growth of around four percent compared with the previous year. Adjusted EBIT improved to -244 million euros (first half of 2024: -337 million euros). The positive development is mainly attributable to lower fuel costs, higher income from investments, and the absence of financial strike-related expenses in the previous year. In contrast to the first half of 2024, network stability also improved significantly, resulting in a 106 million euros reduction in financial expenses due to flight irregularities.

    The integration of ITA Airways, in which the Lufthansa Group holds a 41 percent stake in the first phase, is continuing to progress. The benefits for customers are already clearly noticeable. Since the beginning of July, the airlines of the Lufthansa Group and ITA Airways have harmonized the benefits for their respective status customers, such as mutual lounge access, priority boarding, and conditions for additional baggage.

    Also since July, flights from Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, and Brussels Airlines can be combined with long-haul flights from ITA Airways in a single booking. This has been possible for short- and medium-haul flights since March.

    Starting in September, ITA Airways guests will be able to store their travel profile electronically in the Lufthansa Group Travel ID and benefit from the associated digital customer services of the Lufthansa Group.

    Lufthansa Airlines continues to implement Turnaround program

    Lufthansa Airlines’ Turnaround program remains on track. Increasing operational stability forms the foundation for the success of this program. Significant progress has already been made in this regard: punctuality and reliability achieved their best figures in ten years in the first six months. At the same time, revenues increased. Revenue from flight-related ancillary services rose by more than 25 percent in the first half of the year. In addition, structural measures have been initiated with the announced closure of the customer service center in Peterborough (Canada) and the associated reduction in personnel, which will make Lufthansa Airlines more efficient in the long term. The Turnaround measures are expected to have a gross earnings effect of 1.5 billion euros in 2026 and 2.5 billion euros in 2028.

    Lufthansa Technik at record levels in the first half of the year, Lufthansa Cargo doubles its second quarter result compared with the previous year

    The sustained high demand for air travel is leading to a further increase in demand for maintenance and repair services. Lufthansa Technik’s revenue rose by eight percent to 2.0 billion euros in the second quarter (same quarter last year: 1.8 billion euros). Ongoing material shortages, the US dollar exchange rate and increased US tariffs led to a ten percent increase in expenses compared with the same quarter last year. Nevertheless, Lufthansa Technik achieved an Adjusted EBIT of 310 million euros in the first half of 2025, once again setting a new record.

    Lufthansa Cargo continued the positive trend of the first three months of the year in the second quarter. With an Adjusted EBIT of 73 million euros, the operating result in the second quarter doubled compared with the previous year (second quarter of 2024: 36 million euros). High demand for Asian e-commerce shipments and capacity bottlenecks in sea freight traffic led to an increase in demand and thus a higher load factor for Lufthansa Cargo. Since June 2025, Lufthansa Cargo has been marketing the freight capacity of ITA Airways’ South American routes to Rome. Lufthansa Cargo plans to gradually expand the marketing of belly capacity to all continental and intercontinental routes of the Italian airline. This will further consolidate Lufthansa Cargo’s route network.

    Balance sheet strengthened, debt reduced

    The Lufthansa Group’s operating cashflow amounted to around 2.8 billion euros in the first half of the year (previous year: 2.7 billion euros). Net investments remained at the previous year’s level at 1.6 billion euros. Overall, the Lufthansa Group generated an Adjusted Free Cashflow of 1.04 billion euros (previous year: 878 million euros).

    Net debt decreased slightly to 5.5 billion euros compared with the end of 2024 (December 31, 2024: 5.7 billion euros). Net pension obligations fell by 400 million euros to 2.2 billion euros due to the higher discount rate. The Lufthansa Group’s available liquidity increased by 100 million euros compared with the beginning of the year to 11.1 billion euros.

    Till Streichert, Chief Financial Officer of Deutsche Lufthansa AG:

    “We continue to operate in a volatile environment with high uncertainty and high cost pressure. I am therefore pleased to be able to present another quarterly result that is significantly above the previous year and to report progress in our Turnaround program. In our assessment, opportunities and risks are balanced. We therefore continue to expect a full year 2025 result significantly above the previous year and Adjusted Free Cashflow at approximately the previous year’s level. We thereby confirm our guidance. At the same time, we are closely monitoring macroeconomic developments and can respond flexibly to changes in the business environment.”

    Outlook

    Global demand for air travel remains strong. However, geopolitical crises and macroeconomic uncertainties, particularly commodity price and exchange rate volatility, are affecting the accuracy of forecasts for the rest of the year. In addition, the tendency of many travelers to book at shorter notice is limiting visibility for the second half of the year.

    Despite ongoing global uncertainties, the Lufthansa Group is reaffirming its forecast for the full year and expects operating profit (Adjusted EBIT) to be significantly higher than last year (previous year: 1.6 billion euros) with capacity growth of around four percent.

    The company continues to expect Adjusted Free Cashflow to remain at the previous year’s level (previous year: 840 million euros). This includes net investments of 2.7 to 3.3 billion euros, primarily for the ongoing fleet renewal.

    Among other things, this will finance the remaining payments for the first Boeing 787-9 long-haul aircraft at the group’s largest hub in Frankfurt. By the end of the year, up to ten of these ‘Dreamliner’ with the new Allegris seat generation are expected to be added to the group’s fleet. In summer 2026, Lufthansa Airlines plans to operate a total of 15 Boeing 787-9 s from Frankfurt, more than doubling the number of aircraft offering the Lufthansa Allegris premium product to customers.

    Further information

    Further information on the results of individual business segments will be published in the report for the second quarter of 2025. This will be published simultaneously with this press release on July 31 at 7:00 a.m. CEST at https://investor-relations.lufthansagroup.com/en/financial-reports-publications/financial-reports.html.

    Traffic figures for the second quarter of 2025 will also be published at 7:00 a.m. CEST at https://investor-relations.lufthansagroup.com/en/financial-reports-publications/traffic-figures.html.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN receives UNICEF Regional Director for East Asia and the Pacific

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today received the UNICEF Regional Director for East Asia and the Pacific, Mrs. June Kunugi, at the ASEAN Secretariat/ASEAN Headquarters. During their meeting, both sides exchanged views on leveraging partnership to promote and protect the rights of children in the region, and enhance their overall well-being. Concrete areas of partnership include ending violence against children including online abuse and exploitation, advancing child-focused disaster risk reduction and climate resilience, improving access to education, nutrition and health, among others. ASEAN and UNICEF reaffirmed their commitment to building a safer, healthier, child-friendly and inclusive future for all children in the region.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN receives UNICEF Regional Director for East Asia and the Pacific appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN receives UNICEF Regional Director for East Asia and the Pacific

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today received the UNICEF Regional Director for East Asia and the Pacific, Mrs. June Kunugi, at the ASEAN Secretariat/ASEAN Headquarters. During their meeting, both sides exchanged views on leveraging partnership to promote and protect the rights of children in the region, and enhance their overall well-being. Concrete areas of partnership include ending violence against children including online abuse and exploitation, advancing child-focused disaster risk reduction and climate resilience, improving access to education, nutrition and health, among others. ASEAN and UNICEF reaffirmed their commitment to building a safer, healthier, child-friendly and inclusive future for all children in the region.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN receives UNICEF Regional Director for East Asia and the Pacific appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Public service to get back to basics, deliver value

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Legislation to overhaul the public service so it focuses on getting back to basics and delivering value for money to taxpayers has passed its first reading, Public Service Minister Judith Collins says. 

    “The Public Service Amendment Bill aims to lift the performance of the public service,” Ms Collins says. 

    “It clarifies the purpose of the public service – and the responsibilities of chief executives – while preserving its constitutional role as a politically neutral and professional institution.” 

    The bill will: 

    • Reinforce merit-based appointments, to attract the widest pool of talent and ensure the best candidates are chosen
    • Clarify the responsibilities of public service chief executives, with greater accountability for performance
    • Remove the option to automatically reappoint chief executives at the end of their fixed term, to ensure a competitive selection process
    • Refocus the public service on supporting the government of the day, while maintaining the core values of political neutrality and free and frank advice
    • Remove pay equity, diversity and inclusion provisions, most of which are substantively covered in the Public Service Act or in other laws

    “The reforms will ensure the public service is professional, politically neutral and equipped to serve the government of the day – all of which adds up to better outcomes for taxpayers,” Ms Collins says. 

    “Taxpayers expect a public service that is capable, impartial, and focused on getting results. These changes will do that.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Public service to get back to basics, deliver value

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Legislation to overhaul the public service so it focuses on getting back to basics and delivering value for money to taxpayers has passed its first reading, Public Service Minister Judith Collins says. 

    “The Public Service Amendment Bill aims to lift the performance of the public service,” Ms Collins says. 

    “It clarifies the purpose of the public service – and the responsibilities of chief executives – while preserving its constitutional role as a politically neutral and professional institution.” 

    The bill will: 

    • Reinforce merit-based appointments, to attract the widest pool of talent and ensure the best candidates are chosen
    • Clarify the responsibilities of public service chief executives, with greater accountability for performance
    • Remove the option to automatically reappoint chief executives at the end of their fixed term, to ensure a competitive selection process
    • Refocus the public service on supporting the government of the day, while maintaining the core values of political neutrality and free and frank advice
    • Remove pay equity, diversity and inclusion provisions, most of which are substantively covered in the Public Service Act or in other laws

    “The reforms will ensure the public service is professional, politically neutral and equipped to serve the government of the day – all of which adds up to better outcomes for taxpayers,” Ms Collins says. 

    “Taxpayers expect a public service that is capable, impartial, and focused on getting results. These changes will do that.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: NZ reaffirms strong ties with Solomon Islands

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters met with Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele in Wellington today, reaffirming New Zealand’s close ties to Solomon Islands. 

    “Prime Minister Manele’s visit this week reinforces the deep ties between our two nations stretching back over 150 years.  We discussed the work we are doing together to grow Solomon Islands economy, and PM Manele’s plans for the Pacific Islands Forum, which he will host next month,” Mr Luxon says. 

     “I was particularly pleased to confirm that New Zealand will continue its support over the next 10 years to build on the positive progress Solomon Islands is making in the education and fisheries sectors. 

     “Our long-standing partnership demonstrates New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to Solomon Islands and its people.” 

     Mr Peters welcomed New Zealand’s continued commitment to supporting Solomon Islands’ development.  

     “As we work with our Pacific partners to build a peaceful and prosperous Pacific, New Zealand’s assistance plays a big part in supporting the development of countries like Solomon Islands.  

     “Our continued commitments to Solomon Islands’ education and fisheries sectors will build upon the hard-earned progress made to date for the mutual benefit of both our countries,” Mr Peters says. 

    Prime Minister Manele and his delegation also attended a number of business and community engagements in Auckland and Wellington.  

    Prime Minister Manele departs New Zealand tomorrow.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Mats Persson and Lotta Edholm to deliver opening addresses at EU education meetings in Sweden

    Source: Government of Sweden

    During the week of 20–24 March, several meetings focusing on education will be held as part of the Swedish Presidency of the Council of the EU. Skills supply, the green transition and education for Ukrainian pupils are among the agenda items. Minister for Education Mats Persson and Minister for Schools Lotta Edholm will both deliver opening addresses.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Conference on Institutional Protection of Fundamental Rights in Times of Crises

    Source: Government of Sweden

    On 20–21 April, the Swedish Presidency of the Council of the European Union and the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) will hold a conference in Lund, focusing on institutional protection of human rights in times of crisis.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Inflation coming down and economic situation weakening

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Inflation is starting to come down, but Swedish businesses and households are still burdened by high prices and interest rates. This means a weaker economic situation and that the Swedish economy is considered to be in a recession that will last until 2025. These are the Ministry of Finance’s conclusions presented in a new forecast of the economic outlook.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister for Health Care raised important health care issues for the EU at World Health Assembly

    Source: Government of Sweden

    The theme of this year’s World Health Assembly (WHA) was the World Health Organization (WHO) at 75 and the work it does. Representing the EU and its Member States, Minister for Health Care Acko Ankarberg Johansson took part on the first two days (21–22 May).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Human remains located in Port Lincoln

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Detective Superintendent Darren Fielke, the Officer in Charge of Major Crime provided an update to the media in relation to human remains being located in scrubland near Port Lincoln, believed to be that of Julian Storey.

    Remains located north of Slipway Road and east of Hindmarsh Street where the white box with three stripes is located on the map

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Enhanced cooperation between Swedish and US special forces

    Source: Government of Sweden

    (New version) Today, 3 December, Sweden and the United States have signed a statement of intent on enhanced cooperation between Swedish and US special forces. The contents of the statement are secret, but it will allow for enhanced operational and capability-developing cooperation between special forces.

    MIL OSI Europe News –