NewzIntel.com

Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Security: FORMER EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE RESIDENT SENTENCED TO FEDERAL PRISON FOR CHILD PORN CRIMES

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Daniel R. McCaffrey, 41, formerly of Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, was sentenced to 35 years in federal prison for the transportation of child pornography, possession of child pornography, and abusive sexual contact with a minor female who had not yet reached 12 years of age. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “There is no penalty severe enough for those who harm our children, and my office will continue to aggressively pursue maximum punishment for these types of crimes.  This disgusting defendant not only victimized children online, he also sexually abused a child he had access to on Eglin Air Force Base. The substantial sentence that has been imposed reflects the severity of his crimes, but it cannot make up for the grave harm he has inflicted upon the most vulnerable members of our community. I am deeply appreciative of the incredible work of the agents and investigators with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations to bring this heinous criminal to justice.”

    A jury found McCaffrey guilty of these charges after a federal trial.  Trial records reveal the defendant maintained a child pornography collection on a hidden micro SD card in his residence, where he lived with his then wife and two minor daughters.  McCaffrey’s wife was active duty United States Air Force at the time.  Multiple witnesses testified about the victimization McCaffrey personally inflicted upon the minor female to whom he had access. The child pornography he possessed reflected his penchant for minor females under the age of 12 years old.

    “The FBI is committed to protecting the most vulnerable individuals in our communities, and especially our kids,” said FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge Jason Carley. “Those who abuse innocent children should know that the FBI and our partners will never stop working to identify you, and we will coordinate the full force of our resources to seek justice for your victims.”

    McCaffrey’s sentence of imprisonment will be followed by a lifetime term of supervised release and a requirement to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.  

    The case involved a joint investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Office of Special Investigations of the United States Air Force.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David L. Goldberg and Jessica S. Etherton.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FORMER EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE RESIDENT SENTENCED TO FEDERAL PRISON FOR CHILD PORN CRIMES

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Daniel R. McCaffrey, 41, formerly of Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, was sentenced to 35 years in federal prison for the transportation of child pornography, possession of child pornography, and abusive sexual contact with a minor female who had not yet reached 12 years of age. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “There is no penalty severe enough for those who harm our children, and my office will continue to aggressively pursue maximum punishment for these types of crimes.  This disgusting defendant not only victimized children online, he also sexually abused a child he had access to on Eglin Air Force Base. The substantial sentence that has been imposed reflects the severity of his crimes, but it cannot make up for the grave harm he has inflicted upon the most vulnerable members of our community. I am deeply appreciative of the incredible work of the agents and investigators with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations to bring this heinous criminal to justice.”

    A jury found McCaffrey guilty of these charges after a federal trial.  Trial records reveal the defendant maintained a child pornography collection on a hidden micro SD card in his residence, where he lived with his then wife and two minor daughters.  McCaffrey’s wife was active duty United States Air Force at the time.  Multiple witnesses testified about the victimization McCaffrey personally inflicted upon the minor female to whom he had access. The child pornography he possessed reflected his penchant for minor females under the age of 12 years old.

    “The FBI is committed to protecting the most vulnerable individuals in our communities, and especially our kids,” said FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge Jason Carley. “Those who abuse innocent children should know that the FBI and our partners will never stop working to identify you, and we will coordinate the full force of our resources to seek justice for your victims.”

    McCaffrey’s sentence of imprisonment will be followed by a lifetime term of supervised release and a requirement to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.  

    The case involved a joint investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Office of Special Investigations of the United States Air Force.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David L. Goldberg and Jessica S. Etherton.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: THREE INDICTMENTS RETURNED FOR PREVIOUSLY DEPORTED ILLEGAL ALIENS IDENTIFIED IN RECENT IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TALLAHASSEE & PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – United States Attorney John P. Heekin announced today that three previously deported aliens have been indicted separately by a federal grand jury for illegal reentry into the United States.

    Freddy Bravo Galvez, 32, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Tallahassee in June 2025, after previously being deported in 2013 and 2020.

    Marco Tulio Gonzalez-Oliva, 25, of Honduras, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Fort Walton Beach in March 2024, after previously being deported in 2023.

    Jose Alfredo Morales-Huerta, 48, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Pensacola in June 2025, after previously being deported in 2019.

    The penalty for illegally reentering the United States after deportation is a maximum of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

    The cases are being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations, and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorneys Eric Mountin, Jessica Etherton, and Brooke DiSalvo are prosecuting the cases.

    An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt.  All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) 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).

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Audience with teachers of Catholic schools in Ireland, England, Wales and Scotland, and with young people from the diocese of Copenhagen

    Source: The Holy See

    Audience with teachers of Catholic schools in Ireland, England, Wales and Scotland, and with young people from the diocese of Copenhagen, 05.07.2025
    This morning, in the Clementine Hall of the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the Holy Father Leo XIV received in audience teachers of Catholic schools in Ireland, England, Wales and Scotland, and with young people from the diocese of Copenhagen.
    The following is the Pope’s greeting to those present during the course of the meeting:

    Greeting of the Holy Father
    In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
    Peace be with you!
    Good morning and welcome to the Vatican.
    Your Excellencies,Dear priests and young friends,
    I am pleased to greet all of you on the occasion of your pilgrimage to Rome during this Jubilee Year, which as you know is focused on the theological virtue of hope.  In particular, I welcome the young people from the Diocese of Copenhagen, which is this group, together with the teachers from Ireland, England, Wales and Scotland.
    You are following in the footsteps of countless pilgrims from your various countries, who for centuries have been making this same pilgrimage to Rome, to the “Eternal City”.  Indeed, Rome has always been a special home for Christians, since it is the place where the Apostles Peter and Paul gave the supreme witness to their love for Jesus by offering their lives as martyrs.  As the Successor of Peter, I wish to express my gratitude for your presence here, and I pray that by visiting the various holy sites you may draw inspiration and hope from the profound example of how the saints and martyrs imitated Christ.
    A pilgrimage has a vital part to play in our life of faith, for it removes us from our homes and our daily routines, and gives us time and space to encounter God more deeply.  Such moments always help us to grow, for through them the Holy Spirit gently fashions us to be ever more closely conformed to the mind and the heart of Jesus Christ.
    In a particular way, dear brothers and sisters, young people gathered with us this morning, remember that God has created each one of you with a purpose and a mission in this life.  Use this opportunity for listening, for prayer, so that you may hear more clearly God’s voice calling you deep within your hearts. I would add that today, so often, we lose the ability to listen, to really listen. We listen to music, we have our ears flooded constantly with all kinds of digital input, but sometimes we forget to listen to our own hearts and it’s in our hearts that God speaks to us, that God calls us and invites us to know him better and to live in his love. And through that listening you might be open to allowing God’s grace to strengthen your faith in Jesus (cf. Col 2:7), so that you might more readily share that gift with others.
    And addressing you, dear teachers: what I have just said to the young people applies equally to you, especially given your important role in the formation of today’s youth: children, teenagers, young adults. For they will look up to you as models: models in life, models of faith. They’ll look to you particularly as to how you teach and how you live.  I hope that, each day, you will nurture your relationship with Christ, who gives us the pattern of all authentic teaching (cf Mt 7:28), so that, in turn, you may guide and encourage those entrusted to your care to follow Christ in their own lives.
    And finally, when all of you return home, please remember that a pilgrimage does not end, it shifts its focus to the daily “pilgrimage of discipleship”. We are all pilgrims and we are always pilgrims, walking as we seek to follow the Lord, and as we seek the path that is truly ours in life. That’s certainly not easy, but with the help of the Lord, the intercession of the saints, and by encouraging one another, you can be certain that, as long as you remain faithful, trusting always in God’s mercy, the experience of this pilgrimage will continue to bear fruit throughout your lives (cf. Jn 15:16).
    Dear friends, with these few words, and entrusting you to the intercession of Mary, Mother of the Church, I gladly impart to each of you my heartfelt blessing.
    God bless you and thank you.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • Indian diaspora in Brazil to pay tribute to Operation Sindoor with cultural performance ahead of PM Modi’s BRICS visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to visit Brazil for the BRICS Summit, the Indian diaspora in Brazil is gearing up for a special performance, dedicated to Operation Sindoor, the Indian Armed Forces, and the Prime Minister himself.

    In a unique cultural showcase, members of the Indian community in Brazil will present a semi-classical dance performance inspired by the theme of Operation Sindoor, a military operation that has come to symbolise courage, sacrifice, and national pride.

    Speaking to IANS, Rekha, one of the performers shared, “We have planned a semi-classical dance for PM Modi. It’s themed around Operation Sindoor and is a heartfelt dedication to our brave soldiers.”

    Another participant, Sneha, added, “I’ll be incorporating a painting of Operation Sindoor into our performance. As women artists, we also want to dedicate this to PM Modi, as well as Vyomika Singh and Sofia Qureshi, who represent strength and inspiration.”

    The excitement isn’t limited to the performers. Brazilian residents, too, are eagerly anticipating the Prime Minister’s arrival.

    “I am thrilled that PM Modi is visiting. It’s truly an honour for Brazil,” said one local resident.

    Another added, “This feels like a dream come true. We’re so lucky to have this chance to meet him — there are no words to express how proud we feel.”

    PM Modi will participate in the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro on July 6-7, followed by a historic bilateral visit to Brasilia — the first by an Indian Prime Minister in nearly 60 years. During his stay, he is expected to hold meetings with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and engage with several global leaders on the sidelines of the summit.

    This visit to Brazil marks the fourth leg of PM Modi’s five-nation tour. On Thursday, he arrived in Trinidad & Tobago, where he addressed the Joint Assembly of Parliament, emphasizing India’s commitment to the “Global South first” policy.

    Earlier in the week, PM Modi visited Ghana, where he held extensive talks with President John Dramani Mahama and was conferred with the country’s highest civilian honour — The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana. Several key agreements were also signed to deepen bilateral cooperation.

    (IANS)

  • Indian diaspora in Brazil to pay tribute to Operation Sindoor with cultural performance ahead of PM Modi’s BRICS visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to visit Brazil for the BRICS Summit, the Indian diaspora in Brazil is gearing up for a special performance, dedicated to Operation Sindoor, the Indian Armed Forces, and the Prime Minister himself.

    In a unique cultural showcase, members of the Indian community in Brazil will present a semi-classical dance performance inspired by the theme of Operation Sindoor, a military operation that has come to symbolise courage, sacrifice, and national pride.

    Speaking to IANS, Rekha, one of the performers shared, “We have planned a semi-classical dance for PM Modi. It’s themed around Operation Sindoor and is a heartfelt dedication to our brave soldiers.”

    Another participant, Sneha, added, “I’ll be incorporating a painting of Operation Sindoor into our performance. As women artists, we also want to dedicate this to PM Modi, as well as Vyomika Singh and Sofia Qureshi, who represent strength and inspiration.”

    The excitement isn’t limited to the performers. Brazilian residents, too, are eagerly anticipating the Prime Minister’s arrival.

    “I am thrilled that PM Modi is visiting. It’s truly an honour for Brazil,” said one local resident.

    Another added, “This feels like a dream come true. We’re so lucky to have this chance to meet him — there are no words to express how proud we feel.”

    PM Modi will participate in the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro on July 6-7, followed by a historic bilateral visit to Brasilia — the first by an Indian Prime Minister in nearly 60 years. During his stay, he is expected to hold meetings with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and engage with several global leaders on the sidelines of the summit.

    This visit to Brazil marks the fourth leg of PM Modi’s five-nation tour. On Thursday, he arrived in Trinidad & Tobago, where he addressed the Joint Assembly of Parliament, emphasizing India’s commitment to the “Global South first” policy.

    Earlier in the week, PM Modi visited Ghana, where he held extensive talks with President John Dramani Mahama and was conferred with the country’s highest civilian honour — The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana. Several key agreements were also signed to deepen bilateral cooperation.

    (IANS)

  • Indian diaspora in Brazil to pay tribute to Operation Sindoor with cultural performance ahead of PM Modi’s BRICS visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to visit Brazil for the BRICS Summit, the Indian diaspora in Brazil is gearing up for a special performance, dedicated to Operation Sindoor, the Indian Armed Forces, and the Prime Minister himself.

    In a unique cultural showcase, members of the Indian community in Brazil will present a semi-classical dance performance inspired by the theme of Operation Sindoor, a military operation that has come to symbolise courage, sacrifice, and national pride.

    Speaking to IANS, Rekha, one of the performers shared, “We have planned a semi-classical dance for PM Modi. It’s themed around Operation Sindoor and is a heartfelt dedication to our brave soldiers.”

    Another participant, Sneha, added, “I’ll be incorporating a painting of Operation Sindoor into our performance. As women artists, we also want to dedicate this to PM Modi, as well as Vyomika Singh and Sofia Qureshi, who represent strength and inspiration.”

    The excitement isn’t limited to the performers. Brazilian residents, too, are eagerly anticipating the Prime Minister’s arrival.

    “I am thrilled that PM Modi is visiting. It’s truly an honour for Brazil,” said one local resident.

    Another added, “This feels like a dream come true. We’re so lucky to have this chance to meet him — there are no words to express how proud we feel.”

    PM Modi will participate in the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro on July 6-7, followed by a historic bilateral visit to Brasilia — the first by an Indian Prime Minister in nearly 60 years. During his stay, he is expected to hold meetings with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and engage with several global leaders on the sidelines of the summit.

    This visit to Brazil marks the fourth leg of PM Modi’s five-nation tour. On Thursday, he arrived in Trinidad & Tobago, where he addressed the Joint Assembly of Parliament, emphasizing India’s commitment to the “Global South first” policy.

    Earlier in the week, PM Modi visited Ghana, where he held extensive talks with President John Dramani Mahama and was conferred with the country’s highest civilian honour — The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana. Several key agreements were also signed to deepen bilateral cooperation.

    (IANS)

  • Indian diaspora in Brazil to pay tribute to Operation Sindoor with cultural performance ahead of PM Modi’s BRICS visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to visit Brazil for the BRICS Summit, the Indian diaspora in Brazil is gearing up for a special performance, dedicated to Operation Sindoor, the Indian Armed Forces, and the Prime Minister himself.

    In a unique cultural showcase, members of the Indian community in Brazil will present a semi-classical dance performance inspired by the theme of Operation Sindoor, a military operation that has come to symbolise courage, sacrifice, and national pride.

    Speaking to IANS, Rekha, one of the performers shared, “We have planned a semi-classical dance for PM Modi. It’s themed around Operation Sindoor and is a heartfelt dedication to our brave soldiers.”

    Another participant, Sneha, added, “I’ll be incorporating a painting of Operation Sindoor into our performance. As women artists, we also want to dedicate this to PM Modi, as well as Vyomika Singh and Sofia Qureshi, who represent strength and inspiration.”

    The excitement isn’t limited to the performers. Brazilian residents, too, are eagerly anticipating the Prime Minister’s arrival.

    “I am thrilled that PM Modi is visiting. It’s truly an honour for Brazil,” said one local resident.

    Another added, “This feels like a dream come true. We’re so lucky to have this chance to meet him — there are no words to express how proud we feel.”

    PM Modi will participate in the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro on July 6-7, followed by a historic bilateral visit to Brasilia — the first by an Indian Prime Minister in nearly 60 years. During his stay, he is expected to hold meetings with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and engage with several global leaders on the sidelines of the summit.

    This visit to Brazil marks the fourth leg of PM Modi’s five-nation tour. On Thursday, he arrived in Trinidad & Tobago, where he addressed the Joint Assembly of Parliament, emphasizing India’s commitment to the “Global South first” policy.

    Earlier in the week, PM Modi visited Ghana, where he held extensive talks with President John Dramani Mahama and was conferred with the country’s highest civilian honour — The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana. Several key agreements were also signed to deepen bilateral cooperation.

    (IANS)

  • Indian diaspora in Brazil to pay tribute to Operation Sindoor with cultural performance ahead of PM Modi’s BRICS visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to visit Brazil for the BRICS Summit, the Indian diaspora in Brazil is gearing up for a special performance, dedicated to Operation Sindoor, the Indian Armed Forces, and the Prime Minister himself.

    In a unique cultural showcase, members of the Indian community in Brazil will present a semi-classical dance performance inspired by the theme of Operation Sindoor, a military operation that has come to symbolise courage, sacrifice, and national pride.

    Speaking to IANS, Rekha, one of the performers shared, “We have planned a semi-classical dance for PM Modi. It’s themed around Operation Sindoor and is a heartfelt dedication to our brave soldiers.”

    Another participant, Sneha, added, “I’ll be incorporating a painting of Operation Sindoor into our performance. As women artists, we also want to dedicate this to PM Modi, as well as Vyomika Singh and Sofia Qureshi, who represent strength and inspiration.”

    The excitement isn’t limited to the performers. Brazilian residents, too, are eagerly anticipating the Prime Minister’s arrival.

    “I am thrilled that PM Modi is visiting. It’s truly an honour for Brazil,” said one local resident.

    Another added, “This feels like a dream come true. We’re so lucky to have this chance to meet him — there are no words to express how proud we feel.”

    PM Modi will participate in the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro on July 6-7, followed by a historic bilateral visit to Brasilia — the first by an Indian Prime Minister in nearly 60 years. During his stay, he is expected to hold meetings with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and engage with several global leaders on the sidelines of the summit.

    This visit to Brazil marks the fourth leg of PM Modi’s five-nation tour. On Thursday, he arrived in Trinidad & Tobago, where he addressed the Joint Assembly of Parliament, emphasizing India’s commitment to the “Global South first” policy.

    Earlier in the week, PM Modi visited Ghana, where he held extensive talks with President John Dramani Mahama and was conferred with the country’s highest civilian honour — The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana. Several key agreements were also signed to deepen bilateral cooperation.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Rio de Janeiro gears up for BRICS Summit

    Source: Government of South Africa

    By Gabi Khumalo

    Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – All eyes are on Rio de Janeiro, Brazil as the city prepares to welcome Heads of State and delegations from across the world for the 17th BRICS Summit.

    The Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) nations will converge in the metro for high-level engagements at the Summit taking place on 6 and 7 July 2025.

    Originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, BRICS has since expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates. The new members were invited to join during the Johannesburg BRICS Summit, held in South Africa, in August 2023.

    BRICS brings together major emerging economies, collectively representing around 49.5% of the global population, around 40% of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and around 26% of global trade.

    In preparing for the upcoming event, Rio has heightened security measures. On Friday afternoon, military personnel were deployed at strategic venues and sites, including hotels and museums.

    Trucks delivering furniture and vehicles transporting international delegates were also seen entering and exiting the summit venue.

    South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is scheduled to arrive in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday, while Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to participate virtually.

    Representing the United Arab Emirates (UAE), His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, will lead the UAE delegation on behalf of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.

    Brazil assumed the BRICS Chairship on 1 January 2025 with the theme: “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for more Inclusive and Sustainable Governance”.

    Brazil’s Presidency will focus on two priorities, including Global South Cooperation and the BRICS Partnerships for Social, and Economic and Environmental Development.

    The flagship priorities of the Brazilian Chairship include global health cooperation; trade, investment, and finance; climate change; Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance; promoting global reform of the multilateral peace system and security architecture; and institutional development.

    The key objectives of BRICS include strengthening economic, political, and social cooperation among its members, as well as increasing the influence of Global South countries in international governance.

    Among its ambitions are reforms to global institutions such as the United Nations, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank, and the World Trade Organisation (WTO), with a focus on improving legitimacy, equity, and operational efficiency.

    The group also seeks to improve the legitimacy, equity in participation, and efficiency of global institutions, including the United Nations, International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, and the World Trade Organisation (WTO). – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Budget allocation to enable GCIS to serve the nation

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, has affirmed that the budget allocated to the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) will enable it to carry out its mandate.

    “We hope that it will assist funding campaigns aimed at fighting gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) and building social cohesion. We hope that, with the support of government, it will achieve all that,” Morolong said.

    The GCIS is an agency of government charged with coordinating, managing, and advising on all government communication with the public, including media liaison. It is a unit in the Office of the President and falls under the political authority of the Minister in the Presidency.

    Speaking to SAnews after Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni presented the GCIS Budget Vote in Parliament on Friday, the Deputy Minister explained that part of the budget will be used to fund community media.

    “It is part of our plans to fund the work of community televisions and radio stations, we will have to find better funding models, especially with our advertising,” Morolong said.

    He had hoped more funds could be allocated to the GCIS but assured the public that the GCIS would render the required services to them.

    “We will be able to carry out our mandate as expected and we will be able to run our campaigns as expected, however, we will continue to engage the National Treasury for additional funding,” he said.

    The total budget allocation to the GCIS over the 2025 MTEF period (2025/26 to 2027/28 financial years) amounts to R2.468 billion, which is spread as follows:

    • In 2025/26: R820. 281 million

    • In 2026/27: R805. 731 million

    • In 2027/28: R842.171 million.

    During her Budget Vote speech, Ntshavheni said the GCIS continues to prioritise radio as a pervasive communication channel to reach South Africans in a language of their preference and to ensure that communities engage with government.

    “In the last financial year, 1 086 radio products were used to inform citizens through differentiated formats,” Ntshavheni said.

    The Minister said the GCIS of the future requires an extensive capital budget to accelerate digital transformation technologies and ensure that the department remains relevant, agile and productive as the Fourth Industrial Revolution rolls into the fifth.

    “I table this budget for your support, and I undertake that we will use it diligently to serve the nation. I say this particularly … as South Africa prepares to hold a National Dialogue. The GCIS and its agencies stand ready to ensure South Africans have access to information that will enable their effective participation and feedback,” the Minister said.  

    President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that government would host a National Dialogue that will enable South Africans to participate in engagements that will confront the country’s challenges and forge a path into a better future.

    It will be a people-led, society-wide process to reflect on the state of the country, with people from all walks of life who will come together and help shape the next chapter of South Africa’s democracy.

    All South Africans will have an opportunity to participate as individuals or through organised formations. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: LEGOLAND Shanghai Resort Officially Opens in Shanghai

    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

    SHANGHAI, July 5 (Xinhua) — LEGOLAND Shanghai Resort officially opened its doors to the first wave of excited visitors at 10 a.m. Saturday. It is the first LEGOLAND theme park in China and the largest in the world at the time of its opening.

    The grand opening ceremony, which took place at LEGO Plaza, featured the iconic giant LEGO Dada figure as a backdrop, drawing cheers from local and international guests.

    Located in Shanghai’s Jinshan District, the 318,000-square-meter resort is a LEGO theme park and hotel for children aged 2 to 12 and their families. It is divided into eight themed zones and features more than 75 interactive rides, shows and entertainment facilities.

    LEGOLAND Shanghai Resort is a joint investment project of Shanghai Guoyi Investment Management Co., Ltd., KIRKBI, Merlin Entertainments and CMC Inc.

    Industry insiders and experts believe that the growing presence of world-famous theme parks in the Chinese market reflects the country’s pursuit of high-quality development and its unwavering commitment to opening up to the outside world. The move has boosted confidence in the global theme park industry, highlighting China’s enormous potential for sustainable growth.

    To celebrate the opening of the park, a grand opening week has been announced, which will last until July 13. The resort will be specially decorated with themed decorations, will offer visitors an immersive experience and exclusive offers. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese FM calls on China, France to uphold multilateralism and free trade rules

    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

    PARIS, July 5 (Xinhua) — China and France should uphold multilateralism and defend free trade rules in the face of unilateral bullying that undermines the international order, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said here on Friday during talks with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot.

    He noted that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China and France have maintained high-level exchanges, strengthened strategic coordination, and deepened mutual understanding and trust.

    Beijing and Paris successfully held meetings of the China-France high-level people-to-people exchange mechanism and called for using both civilizations to promote mutual learning and remove artificial barriers, Wang said.

    This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War and the founding of the UN, the minister noted. Over the past 80 years, China and France have made the right strategic choices at key historical moments, and have jointly influenced and shaped global development, demonstrating the strategic and forward-looking nature of interstate relations, he added.

    In the face of the negative impact of unilateral bullying on the international order, China and France, as permanent members of the UN Security Council and large independent countries, should shoulder the mission of the times, uphold the practice of multilateralism, defend the rules of free trade, and work together to shoulder the responsibility for world peace, contribute to global development and promote the progress of mankind, Wang Yi said.

    He also expressed confidence that the French side will continue to adhere to the one-China principle and protect the political foundation of bilateral relations.

    Wang Yi called on the two sides to continue to deepen cooperation in traditional key areas such as nuclear energy, aviation and astronautics, and expand cooperation in new areas such as artificial intelligence, green energy, biotechnology and the silver economy.

    According to him, China encourages its competitive companies to invest in the French economy and hopes that the French side will provide them with a fair, transparent, non-discriminatory and predictable business environment.

    In turn, Jean-Néon Barrot said that in today’s complex international situation, Franco-Chinese and European-Chinese relations should provide the world with more energy of stability and rationality. Paris and Beijing maintain close high-level exchanges, have achieved positive results in practical cooperation and humanitarian exchanges, the head of the Foreign Ministry added.

    According to him, both France and China adhere to multilateralism. Paris hopes to strengthen ties and cooperation with Beijing to jointly solve global problems, the minister emphasized.

    The French government has a one-China policy and this position remains unchanged, said Jean-Nicolas Barrot. France attaches great importance to the partnership between the EU and China and hopes to take advantage of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the EU and China as an opportunity to deepen cooperation, he added.

    The parties also exchanged views on the Ukrainian crisis and the Iranian nuclear issue. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Ramaphosa’s opening remarks during the official talks of the Austrian State Visit to SA.

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)

    President Ramaphosa’s opening remarks during the official talks of the Austrian State Visit to SA.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UvYLewFyTI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Ramaphosa holds a tête-à-tête with President Alexander Van der Bellen at Union Buildings

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)

    President Ramaphosa holds a tête-à-tête with President Alexander Van der Bellen at the Union Buildings

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uK1SRzfAM3g

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Ramaphosa welcomes President Alexander van der Bellen of Austria, at the Union Buildings.

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)

    President Ramaphosa welcomes President Alexander van der Bellen of Austria, at the Union Building.

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Portsoy rocks helping to unlock understanding of the moon Rocks from an Aberdeenshire coastal village are helping scientists to develop equipment which could enable astronauts to investigate the surface of the moon.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    Rocks from an Aberdeenshire coastal village are helping scientists to develop equipment which could enable astronauts to investigate the surface of the moon.
    Portsoy has long been known for its important geological features but now researchers from the University of Aberdeen are using the rare assembly of rock types found in the harbour area to replicate lunar geology.
    It is the test bed for a collaboration between academics, space agencies and mineral exploration companies which aims to create a hand-held instrument for astronauts that could one day allow them to make analysis of rocks on the moon.
    The moon has an inner core made up of pyroxenite, while the outer region is composed largely of anorthosite and gabbro. Meteorite strikes in the geological past are thought to have caused deep impacts that brought pyroxenite to the surface.
    These three rocks occur within close proximity at Portsoy and researchers from the University of Aberdeen are taking advantage of this rare ‘geological combination’ to gain an understanding of how an instrument for the moon could be used and to demonstrate its application.
    Professor John Parnell, who is leading the project at Aberdeen, said: “Exploration of the moon focuses on two key areas – evidence of traces of water and the potential for minerals including nickel.
    “Portsoy is in a select position to help us develop equipment to test for that and gain the understanding we need here on Earth.
    “It is the closest replica we have ever found to lunar geology. There are three particular rocks that characterise the moon surface – pyroxenite, gabbro and anorthosite. These three rocks all occur in Portsoy and really conveniently can all be found in the harbour area.”
    The gabbro at Portsoy contains the mineral olivine, which when exposed to water is converted into a complex multi-coloured mineral called serpentine.
    The scientists are designing systems which can look at olivine and see if traces of serpentine are contained within it. This would indicate if there has been water present in the past – a question crucial to lunar exploration.
    Dr Joe Armstrong, Lecturer and Interdisciplinary Fellow at the University of Aberdeen, added: “People visiting Portsoy will be familiar with ‘Portsoy marble’ historically quarried to the west of the town and often picked up as a souvenir. This ‘marble’ is actually the metamorphic rock serpentinite, composed predominantly of the serpentine group minerals we are interested in.
    “This long-time staple of the area’s gift shops is part of the assemblage that could provide new answers about geological conditions on the moon. This is key to unlocking understanding of the moon’s potential resources – a key area of focus for current space missions.
    “We have been using rocks at Portsoy for decades to teach our students as the area is known for its geological importance but this is the first time they have been used to further space exploration in this way.”
    The Aberdeen geologists are using the results from Portsoy to feed into an international collaboration involving the universities of Leicester and Madrid, the British Space Agency and European Space Agency with further input from the private sector in the UK and beyond.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: Global eco forum in China’s Guiyang highlights green transformation

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

    Eco Forum Global Guiyang 2025, China’s only national-level international forum dedicated to ecological civilization, kicked off on Saturday in Guiyang, the capital of southwest China’s Guizhou Province.

    This year’s event, themed “Harmonious coexistence between humans and nature — global collaborative development for green transformation,” has attracted some 800 participants. Twenty sub-forums will be held, covering key topics on sustainable development, climate change, biodiversity conservation and environmental governance.

    During the two-day event, the latest eco-friendly technologies and products in fields like new energy and solid waste treatment will be unveiled and promoted.

    Speaking at the opening ceremony, Morris Toiraena, deputy speaker of the National Parliament of Solomon Islands, praised the forum’s role in promoting international green cooperation.

    “The forum’s enduring commitment to ecological civilization, aligned with China’s forward-thinking concepts, policies and actions, serves as an inspiring example for all of us,” he said.

    Since its inception in 2009, the forum has successfully convened 12 sessions. It now serves as both a key platform to showcase China’s progress in ecological civilization and a cultural bridge for fostering international exchanges and cooperation.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s Xinjiang is more dynamic, attractive amid increasing openness

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

    A China-Europe freight train passes through an inspection system for large-size containers at Horgos railway port in Horgos, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Dec. 25, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Shuo)

    Xinjiang in northwest China is seeing increased vitality across the board as the region accelerates efforts to build core areas of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) through broader opening-up.

    The 2025 (China) Eurasia Commodity and Trade Expo recently concluded in Urumqi, the regional capital. The five-day fair was one of the latest examples of Xinjiang’s increasingly open and dynamic development, attended by 1,800 exhibitors from 50 countries and regions, including first-time exhibitors from four countries in Africa: Ethiopia, Zambia, Comoros and Senegal.

    A vast region that borders Central Asian countries, the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has enhanced its connectivity with the world significantly in recent years, boosting mutually beneficial cooperation and people-to-people exchange, driven by the BRI.

    In addition to the dozens of freight trains that enter and exit Xinjiang on average each day, the region’s air transport is expanding rapidly. In the first half of this year, seven new international charter cargo flight routes were opened between Urumqi and foreign cities such as Istanbul, Belgrade and Addis Ababa, raising the region’s total number of international air freight routes to 26, according to Xinjiang Airport Group. In the first five months of this year, the number of air routes the company operates increased by 115, or 26.5 percent year on year.

    Tourists watch a folk art performance at a scenic area in Turpan, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, May 4, 2025. (Xinhua/Wang Fei)

    Xinjiang is accelerating its development of 10 industrial clusters, in fields including oil-and-gas production and processing, advanced manufacturing, new materials, cotton and textiles, culture and tourism, and modern logistics. These industries play a vital role in sustaining the region’s high-quality growth and creating jobs.

    Its broader opening-up can also be seen through the rapid increase in the number of enterprises in the Xinjiang Pilot Free Trade Zone (FTZ), which was inaugurated in November 2023. Pilot FTZs are a landmark feature of China’s high-standard opening-up.

    As of May this year, more than 15,000 enterprises have been established in the pilot FTZ, and there are now 1.5 times more foreign-invested enterprises than there were when the FTZ opened for business, according to statistics from the regional department of commerce. The Xinjiang pilot FTZ is now home to more than 40,000 enterprises.

    Despite global uncertainties and false accusations launched against the region, Xinjiang’s foreign trade has maintained rapid growth in recent years, reaping 22.9 percent year-on-year growth in the first five months of 2025.

    Xinjiang’s attractiveness has also been strengthened through a number of international events held in the region in such fields as sports and the arts. Event participants, businesspeople and tourists traveling to Xinjiang find themselves deeply impressed by the beauty of its landscape, the diversity of its culture, the hospitality of its locals, and its remarkable development.

    This year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The region will surely become more confident, vibrant and prosperous as it joins with the whole nation in pushing modernization forward while delivering more opportunities for win-win cooperation with the world. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s Anhui accelerates layout of aerospace information industry

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

    A worker assembles a general aviation aircraft at the workshop of CETC Wuhu Diamond Aircraft Manufacture Co., Ltd. in Wuhu City, east China’s Anhui Province, July 3, 2025. In recent years, Anhui Province has accelerated the layout of its aerospace information industry, which encompasses low-altitude economy, commercial space, satellite applications, and deep space exploration. From booming “low altitude economy” such as drone delivery and low-altitude tourism, to the aggregation of enterprises into a commercial space industry chain, and the accelerating development of deep space exploration, Anhui further enhanced its independent innovation capabilities, and elevated aerospace information industry into a new growth pole for its economic development. (Xinhua/Zhang Cheng)

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, Pokeno

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Emergency services are assisting the victim of a serious crash in the Avon Road area, Pokeno.

    Police were called to the scene about 6pm.

    Initial indications suggest a person has fallen from a vehicle and has been seriously injured. It’s believed the incident occurred on SH2, between Pokeno and Mangatawhiri.

    Road closures are in place, and Police ask motorists to avoid the area.

    We would also like anyone who witnessed this incident to please speak with us as soon as possible.

    If you can help, please call 105 and quote reference number P063076728.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: S for Housing visits Barcelona (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Secretary for Housing, Ms Winnie Ho, commenced her visit to Barcelona, Spain, yesterday (July 4, Barcelona time).
     
         In the morning, Ms Ho met with Deputy Mayor of Barcelona Mr Jordi Valls Riera, who oversees housing policies, economic affairs and tourism matters. They exchanged views on areas such as housing policies and construction technologies. Ms Ho shared Hong Kong’s experience in expeditiously building government-led Light Public Housing (LPH) using Modular Integrated Construction (MiC). For instance, the first LPH project at Yau Pok Road, Yuen Long, took only about one year to complete. As for the Choi Hing Road project in Ngau Tau Kok, which is the first 19-storey LPH project with elevators, its first phase was completed in less than one and a half years, breaking the record for rapid construction of high-rise buildings in Hong Kong. She also shared that the Housing Bureau (HB) and the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HKHA) have been continuously optimising Hong Kong’s housing ladder to encourage more young people and families to move up the housing ladder. She mentioned that the HB will organise an international symposium to be held in Hong Kong in November this year, to showcase to the world the latest developments of construction technologies in Mainland China and Hong Kong. She expressed hope that friends from around the world could attend the symposium.
     
         Afterwards, Ms Ho visited a social housing project, Modulus Matrix: 85 Social Housing, which used timber frame construction to reduce carbon emissions and a modular design to shorten construction time.
     
         In the afternoon, Ms Ho toured a social housing project, APROP-Glòries, which was converted from containers to provide temporary accommodation to people in need. Ms Ho said that both the Hong Kong and Barcelona governments are dedicated to increasing their housing supply with swift and pragmatic approaches, and providing accommodation to families with urgent housing needs. She said she hoped that the two places would continue holding close exchanges on relevant initiatives.
     
         Ms Ho then paid a courtesy call on the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Barcelona, Ms Meng Yuhong, to share with her various housing initiatives being implemented by the HB, which include promoting the development of housing construction technologies by leveraging the strengths of the Mainland cities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).
     
         Ms Ho today (July 5, Barcelona time) visited another social housing project, 72 Social Housing Units, to see its architectural design that creates a simple, livable and energy-efficient living environment.
     
         Concluding the trip, Ms Ho said, “Hong Kong enjoys the unique advantage of having the strong support of the motherland while maintaining unparalleled connectivity with the world, as well as the strategic geographical location of being connected to the GBA. This visit demonstrated how Hong Kong gives full play to its important roles as a ‘super connector’ and ‘super value-adder’. I look forward to maintaining close exchanges with Portugal and Spain in areas including innovative construction technologies, people-oriented ‘Well-being design’ concepts and sustainable smart city development, and exploring further collaboration to create more opportunities for the industries and enterprises of the three places.”
     
         Ms Ho will return to Hong Kong tomorrow morning (July 6).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Third phase of Rule of Law Education Train-the-Leaders Programme trains youth leaders as ROLE ambassadors

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The third phase of the foundation course of the Rule of Law Education (ROLE) Stars Train-the-Leaders (TTL) Programme was officially launched today (July 5) by the Department of Justice (DoJ). The two-day course, which covers topics relevant to the rule of law and daily life, provides training to about 120 trainees from district youth committees in the 18 districts and a local university about knowledge on the rule of law in a diversified, interactive, and easy-to-understand manner, encouraging them to become ROLE ambassadors and actively promote the rule of law in their daily lives and work.

    The Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, and the President of the Education University of Hong Kong, Professor John Lee, delivered opening remarks for the event. Mr Lam expressed the hope that this Programme would enhance the trainees’ understanding of the legal system and the rule of law in Hong Kong, as well as their capability in promoting the rule of law as youth leaders and educators in the future, consolidating their role as leaders in the rule of law education.

         On the first day of the course, Mr Lam gave a lecture on the topic of “Rule of law and our legal system”. He elaborated to the trainees on the essence of the rule of law concept, presented an overview on Hong Kong’s legal and judicial systems, and explained to them the relationship between the rule of law and the Constitution, the Basic Law, the Hong Kong National Security Law, the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance and “one country, two systems”.

    Member of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) and Member of the Legislative Council, Dr Starry Lee, took part in the Programme as a speaker again to explain to the trainees about the Mainland legal system and the functions of the NPC and state institutions.

    The trainees of the third phase of the Programme include members of the District Youth Community Building Committees and District Youth Development and Civic Education Committees in the 18 districts, as well as students of the Education University of Hong Kong. The second day event of the TTL Programme and its graduation ceremony will be held on July 12 and certificates will be presented to trainees who have completed the course.

    The third phase of the TTL Programme carries on its legacy and forges ahead with an advanced course and a newly added extended course, with a view to further deepening the understanding of the legal system and the implementation of procedures for trainees who have completed the foundation course. The content of the advanced course includes visits to law enforcement agencies and mock court activities, enabling trainees to gain a first-hand experience of the practice of the rule of law. The new extended course provides thematic talks on specific legal topics, such as a thematic talk on the cyber world which was organised earlier, along with practice activities for promoting the rule of law. This aims to strengthen trainees’ legal knowledge and encourage them to organise and participate in various community promotion projects on their own, taking on the roles of promoters and leaders of the rule of law education.

    ​For more details on the TTL Programme and other information relating to the promotion and training on the rule of law, please visit the dedicated website at www.role-ttl.gov.hk.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by CE at Hong Kong Association for External Friendship Inauguration Ceremony (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Speech by CE at Hong Kong Association for External Friendship Inauguration Ceremony (English only) 
    Ladies and gentlemen, when I was making preparation for this occasion, my colleagues told me that because we are talking about friendship, I should make three speeches, one in Cantonese, one is Putonghua and one in English. Indeed, Hong Kong focuses on efficiency and good use of time. For your benefit, don’t worry, I am going to speak in English because this is an occasion for external friendship.
     
         Honorable Commissioner Cui Jianchun (Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), Secretary General Sun Xueqing (Secretary General of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries), Professor Priscilla Leung (Founding President and Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Association for External Friendship), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
         Good afternoon. I am pleased to join you today to celebrate the inauguration of the Hong Kong Association for External Friendship.
     
         Today, we will witness not only the beginning of an association, but also the initiation of a new force for global dialogue. A new impetus that facilitates people-to-people exchange, and cultivates friendships.
     
         Because where better to make friends, and keep them, than in Hong Kong?
     
         Under the unique “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong is the only world city that enjoys both the China advantage and the global advantage.
     
         We boast a long tradition of the rule of law, and have a common law system similar to many global financial centres. We are home to five of the world’s top 100 universities, and the world’s four most international universities – they not only help to nurture a workforce that’s bilingual and well-versed with both Mainland and international practices, but also attract a world of students, researchers, and teachers to our city.
     
         Our simple and transparent tax regime, world-class infrastructure, and the free flow of information, capital, goods and people, make it easy to work, study, or simply live here. To add to all that, our superb location means we’re just a five-hour flight from half of the world’s population.
     
         China, our country, supports Hong Kong in deepening international engagement, putting a primacy on co-operation, regionally and globally – in business, trade, finance, education, culture and every other area that governments, companies and peoples can come together for mutually rewarding opportunities.
     
         The HKSAR (Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) Government is dedicated to boosting Hong Kong’s relations with different economies. And the results have been recognised by international investors and corporations.
     
         A week ago, an international newspaper published an article that analysed Hong Kong’s thriving stock market, which ranks first, globally, in IPO fundraising so far this year.
     
         It noted that institutional investors are returning, adding: “Hong Kong continues to hold appeal as a gateway for Chinese capital and a bridge for international investors seeking exposure to Chinese growth”. Noting that this role of Hong Kong “remains difficult to replicate”, it added that to dismiss our rebound is “to overlook the changing dynamics under way”. I think it describes it perfectly.
     
         Yes, in these times of economic uncertainties, Hong Kong remains a financial harbour wide open to the world, and a world of free and unfettered trade. All thanks to the “one country, two systems” principle, and Hong Kong’s unique role as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” in building bridges among different economies.
     
         I am delighted to note that the Hong Kong Association for External Friendship is committed to becoming a bridging connector in its own vital way.
     
         The Association is formed under the guidance of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, and focuses on cultivating “four friendships” – with cities, associations, organisations and individuals. That, ladies and gentlemen, is the essence of soft power and a critical complement to official diplomatic channels.
     
         Diplomacy, both public and international, helped inspire the success of last December’s Global University Presidents and Leaders Summit – a landmark event organised by the Association that brought together university leaders from around the world in Hong Kong.
     
         Today’s ceremony symbolises a deeper commitment to building bridges between Hong Kong and the world. Creating an organisation, and a way forward, based on dialogue, mutual understanding and collaboration.
     
         In today’s complex and rapidly evolving global landscape, where co-operation is no longer a given, we must unite and remain open to dialogue, to maintaining friendly relations with different places that are eager to pursue development, very much like us. That makes the Association, and its mission, more crucial than ever. For that, I am grateful – grateful to its founder, Professor Priscilla Leung, and all those who have contributed to its establishment.
     
         The HKSAR Government looks forward to working with you, to empowering the Hong Kong Association for External Friendship to become a dynamic force for international goodwill and co-operation.
     
         Ladies and gentlemen, for those of you who checked the weather, you may notice a tropical storm is on its way to this part of the globe and could bring us some rainy and windy days.
     
         To those who ask, “Can bridges survive storms?” We always point to our harbour. For centuries, typhoons have battered our shores. But Hong Kong, long a free port, has always provided a safe shelter for ships, seafarers and traders. Even in the harshest of storms and headwinds, Hong Kong will remain a safe and stress-tested harbour. We may not be able to change the global current, but united, we can sail together and chart our common course of co-operation and friendship.
     
         Together, we will realise a global community of shared future, rooted in economic and cultural harmony and people-to-people connectivity. A flourishing and sustainable future for each and everyone of us.
     
         Thank you very much.
    Issued at HKT 15:41

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Carers database to be rolled out

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Labour & Welfare Chris Sun said today that a database on carers will be rolled out in the coming weeks, allowing the Government to use data to identify families at risk at an earlier stage.

     

    At a media session following an appearance on a radio programme this morning, Mr Sun said the pilot scheme will start with beneficiaries of the “Scheme on Living Allowance for Low-income Carers of Persons with Disabilities”, which assists thousands of families at higher risk.

     

    “An example is if the carer has been admitted into hospital. Under our new pilot scheme, a message would be given from the Hospital Authority to the Social Welfare Department signaling that the said family is now at risk, so that we can reach out to it to provide necessary respite service or home service to make sure those being taken care of (are) receiving proper care.”

     

    Separately, the labour chief iterated that the Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme is designed to ensure that local workers are given priority for employment.

     

    Employers are required to prove that they are unable to recruit enough workers locally before the Government will consider applications for the importation of labour, he added.

     

    “Once an employer put up an application, first of all they have to recruit locally for four weeks. That is a very vigorous process.

     

    “They have to interview every local worker (who) applies for the job. Even if he or she is not employed, the Labour Department will give them a call to make sure that they have not been mistreated. If we found out during that process that the local workers have the willingness to work and somehow the employer has not been treating him or her in a fair manner, this would possibly result in the rejection of the application for importation of labour for that employer.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • PM Modi announces Rs 2 lakh ex-gratia for Sambhal accident victims’ kin

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday expressed grief over the tragic road accident in Sambhal district of Uttar Pradesh on Friday in which eight people of a marriage party, including the groom, were killed. The PM announced financial assistance for the families of those killed in the mishap and for the injured.

    A post shared by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) on X, stated: “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in an accident in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in the mishap. May the injured recover soon. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM.”

    The tragic incident occurred on Friday evening in the Junawai Police Station area of Sambhal district in Uttar Pradesh.

    A Bolero vehicle being driven at high-speed lost control and rammed into the wall of Janata Inter College in Junawai village. The impact was so severe that the vehicle overturned, killing five people on the spot, including the groom.

    Following the accident, five critically injured passengers were referred to Aligarh for treatment. However, three of them, identified as Ravi, Komal, and Madhu, succumbed to their injuries on the way as all three were in a critical condition, bringing the total death toll to eight. The remaining two injured are currently undergoing treatment at Aligarh Medical College.

    According to police, all the victims were residents of Hargovindpur village under Junawai police station limits and were en route to Bilsi in Budaun district as part of a wedding procession.

    What was meant to be a joyous occasion turned into a horrific tragedy for the families involved. Locals say the Bolero was being driven at high speed, and the driver reportedly lost control before crashing into the college wall.

    On receiving information about the accident, Sambhal Superintendent of Police Krishna Kumar Vishnoi and Additional SP Anukriti Sharma rushed to the scene. The vehicle was completely mangled and had to be cut open with the help of a JCB machine to rescue the trapped passengers.

    (IANS)

  • PM Modi announces Rs 2 lakh ex-gratia for Sambhal accident victims’ kin

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday expressed grief over the tragic road accident in Sambhal district of Uttar Pradesh on Friday in which eight people of a marriage party, including the groom, were killed. The PM announced financial assistance for the families of those killed in the mishap and for the injured.

    A post shared by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) on X, stated: “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in an accident in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in the mishap. May the injured recover soon. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM.”

    The tragic incident occurred on Friday evening in the Junawai Police Station area of Sambhal district in Uttar Pradesh.

    A Bolero vehicle being driven at high-speed lost control and rammed into the wall of Janata Inter College in Junawai village. The impact was so severe that the vehicle overturned, killing five people on the spot, including the groom.

    Following the accident, five critically injured passengers were referred to Aligarh for treatment. However, three of them, identified as Ravi, Komal, and Madhu, succumbed to their injuries on the way as all three were in a critical condition, bringing the total death toll to eight. The remaining two injured are currently undergoing treatment at Aligarh Medical College.

    According to police, all the victims were residents of Hargovindpur village under Junawai police station limits and were en route to Bilsi in Budaun district as part of a wedding procession.

    What was meant to be a joyous occasion turned into a horrific tragedy for the families involved. Locals say the Bolero was being driven at high speed, and the driver reportedly lost control before crashing into the college wall.

    On receiving information about the accident, Sambhal Superintendent of Police Krishna Kumar Vishnoi and Additional SP Anukriti Sharma rushed to the scene. The vehicle was completely mangled and had to be cut open with the help of a JCB machine to rescue the trapped passengers.

    (IANS)

  • Feels like something divine, blessing from past life: Indian diaspora overjoyed after meeting PM Modi in Buenos Aires

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a rousing and emotional welcome from the Indian diaspora at the Alvear Palace Hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina with enthusiastic community members stating that meeting him felt like something divine and a blessing from a past life.

    People gathered in anticipation of the Prime Minister’s arrival, creating a vibrant and electrifying atmosphere echoing with chants of “Modi-Modi”, “Jai Hind” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.”

    Upon his arrival, PM Modi was greeted with traditional rituals and floral tributes. Members of the Indian diaspora expressed immense pride and joy, calling the moment a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

    Speaking to IANS, one member of the Indian diaspora said, “I feel very good, very happy. It feels as if I have seen divinity, as if the doors to something divine have opened for me. The moment PM Modi arrived, it felt like the doors of a temple had opened.”

    Another said, “Today, we had a great opportunity to meet PM Modi and we are very happy to be here. He has a great aura, that’s what I could feel in person.”

    Many shared how PM Modi’s presence made them feel closer to their roots despite living thousands of miles away from India.

    One community member remarked, “We are representing Indian culture and proudly welcoming him. It’s a joy to see him after such a long time, especially since we live so far from India. His visit encourages us to connect with the community and brings us together.”

    Another member who met the Prime Minister during his previous visit said, “I am very happy that the Prime Minister has come here. I have met him and it is a very good thing, I also met him seven years ago when he came here.”

    A visibly moved attendee added, “It feels like a dream come true for us. We never imagined we could see PM Modi from so close. Seeing him this closely feels like a blessing from a past life that we are receiving today.”

    Several attendees even received autographs from the Prime Minister, creating memories they said they would cherish forever.

    This warm and heartfelt welcome came shortly after PM Modi landed at Ezeiza International Airport, where he was accorded a ceremonial reception.

    The visit marks a historic moment as it is the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Argentina in 57 years.

    (IANS)

  • Feels like something divine, blessing from past life: Indian diaspora overjoyed after meeting PM Modi in Buenos Aires

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a rousing and emotional welcome from the Indian diaspora at the Alvear Palace Hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina with enthusiastic community members stating that meeting him felt like something divine and a blessing from a past life.

    People gathered in anticipation of the Prime Minister’s arrival, creating a vibrant and electrifying atmosphere echoing with chants of “Modi-Modi”, “Jai Hind” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.”

    Upon his arrival, PM Modi was greeted with traditional rituals and floral tributes. Members of the Indian diaspora expressed immense pride and joy, calling the moment a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

    Speaking to IANS, one member of the Indian diaspora said, “I feel very good, very happy. It feels as if I have seen divinity, as if the doors to something divine have opened for me. The moment PM Modi arrived, it felt like the doors of a temple had opened.”

    Another said, “Today, we had a great opportunity to meet PM Modi and we are very happy to be here. He has a great aura, that’s what I could feel in person.”

    Many shared how PM Modi’s presence made them feel closer to their roots despite living thousands of miles away from India.

    One community member remarked, “We are representing Indian culture and proudly welcoming him. It’s a joy to see him after such a long time, especially since we live so far from India. His visit encourages us to connect with the community and brings us together.”

    Another member who met the Prime Minister during his previous visit said, “I am very happy that the Prime Minister has come here. I have met him and it is a very good thing, I also met him seven years ago when he came here.”

    A visibly moved attendee added, “It feels like a dream come true for us. We never imagined we could see PM Modi from so close. Seeing him this closely feels like a blessing from a past life that we are receiving today.”

    Several attendees even received autographs from the Prime Minister, creating memories they said they would cherish forever.

    This warm and heartfelt welcome came shortly after PM Modi landed at Ezeiza International Airport, where he was accorded a ceremonial reception.

    The visit marks a historic moment as it is the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Argentina in 57 years.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Number of internally displaced breaks new record with no let-up in conflicts, disasters

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    “These figures are a clear warning: without bold and coordinated action, the number of people displaced within their own countries will continue to grow rapidly,” said Amy Pope, Director General of the International Organization for Migration.

    The recent rise in conflicts worldwide – particularly in Sudan, the Republic of the Congo, Lebanon, Ukraine and Palestine has pushed millions more into displacement, adding to the tens of millions who already live in protracted displacement in countries such as Afghanistan, Colombia, Syria and Yemen. 

    Disasters surging

    The number of displaced by disasters has risen massively, climbing from 26.8 million last year to 45.8 million. “The number of disaster displacements in 2024 was nearly double the annual average of the past decade,” said a new report issued by the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC).

    Almost 30 countries and territories have reported unprecedented disaster displacement – with cyclones accounting for more than one in two people forced from their homes. The United States alone makes up about one in four of those displaced globally by disasters.

    With the frequency, intensity and duration of weather hazards continuously worsening owing to climate change, there is little to suggest that the trend will not continue.

    “This report is a call for preventive action, to use data and other tools to anticipate displacement before it happens and for the humanitarian and development sectors to work together with governments to develop longer-term solutions to prevent displacement,” Ms. Pope stressed.

    Conflict and violence

    Displacement caused by conflict and violence remains high and continues to be a major cause for displacement, too – although it did decrease slightly in 2024, compared to the previous 12 months.

    Over 20 million conflict-related displacements have been recorded and almost half of these stem from Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

    “These latest numbers prove that internal displacement is not just a humanitarian crisis; it’s a clear development and political challenge that requires far more attention than it currently receives,” said Alexandra Bilak, director of the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –